Substance Use Therapists in Raleigh, NC

Photo of Hannah Groover, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Groover
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601
Empathy, purpose, and passion are the driving forces of my practice. I believe in every individual's ability to recover from challenges, achieve their goals, and reach the wellness they desire. I say this with experience working with people who are experiencing eating disorders, substance use disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, and a variety of other mental health concerns. Life struggles are very real and distressing, and I know the importance and impact of therapy from all angles. You are capable of finding peace and joy, and I would be honored to be a part of your journey.
Empathy, purpose, and passion are the driving forces of my practice. I believe in every individual's ability to recover from challenges, achieve their goals, and reach the wellness they desire. I say this with experience working with people who are experiencing eating disorders, substance use disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, and a variety of other mental health concerns. Life struggles are very real and distressing, and I know the importance and impact of therapy from all angles. You are capable of finding peace and joy, and I would be honored to be a part of your journey.
(984) 368-5278 View (984) 368-5278
Photo of Cheri Coats, MA, LCAS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cheri Coats
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCAS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27661
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in substance use and addictive behaviors.
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults who are going through transition/change, need extra support, or are dealing with on-going struggles. I see therapy as collaborative between therapist and client. I strive to get to know clients on an individual level including your strengths, challenges, goals, and beliefs. My goal is to help you identify aspects of your life that you would like to change and help you to use the strengths you already possess to reach your life goals. I find that clients appreciate that I am compassionate but direct.
I specialize in substance use and addictive behaviors.
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults who are going through transition/change, need extra support, or are dealing with on-going struggles. I see therapy as collaborative between therapist and client. I strive to get to know clients on an individual level including your strengths, challenges, goals, and beliefs. My goal is to help you identify aspects of your life that you would like to change and help you to use the strengths you already possess to reach your life goals. I find that clients appreciate that I am compassionate but direct.
(919) 694-6889 View (919) 694-6889
Photo of Bethany Argenio, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bethany Argenio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Therapy for Modern Ambitious Couples - Are you feeling disconnected from your partner despite sharing similar ambitions and goals? Juggling demanding careers and personal aspirations can make it tough to prioritize your relationship, leading to emotional distance, communication gaps, or feelings of loneliness. If you're looking to rebuild intimacy, restore trust, and reconnect with your partner, therapy can help you navigate these challenges and bring you closer together. My expertise includes guiding partners through infidelity, supporting substance use recovery, and processing trauma affecting your relationship.
Therapy for Modern Ambitious Couples - Are you feeling disconnected from your partner despite sharing similar ambitions and goals? Juggling demanding careers and personal aspirations can make it tough to prioritize your relationship, leading to emotional distance, communication gaps, or feelings of loneliness. If you're looking to rebuild intimacy, restore trust, and reconnect with your partner, therapy can help you navigate these challenges and bring you closer together. My expertise includes guiding partners through infidelity, supporting substance use recovery, and processing trauma affecting your relationship.
(984) 217-6470 View (984) 217-6470
Photo of Sarah E Regensburger, LCSW-A, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah E Regensburger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
Waitlist for new clients
I feel clients tend to have to climb a mountain range of different stressors: low self-esteem, stigma, spiraling anxiety, deep depression, substance cravings, and more. I believe psychotherapy must focus on self-empowering clients to find ways to achieve their goals. I want to build a therapeutic alliance with each client to help them overcome life's stressors. I mainly work with adults and adolescents to focus on their strengths to achieve the full potential of their lives. I have a background in working with those struggling with substance use and mood disorders.
I feel clients tend to have to climb a mountain range of different stressors: low self-esteem, stigma, spiraling anxiety, deep depression, substance cravings, and more. I believe psychotherapy must focus on self-empowering clients to find ways to achieve their goals. I want to build a therapeutic alliance with each client to help them overcome life's stressors. I mainly work with adults and adolescents to focus on their strengths to achieve the full potential of their lives. I have a background in working with those struggling with substance use and mood disorders.
(984) 422-3341 View (984) 422-3341
Photo of Sharon Wilkening, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sharon Wilkening
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
****Cambrio Counseling has immediate openings in N. Raleigh Locations for adults, children and couples ****ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. BOTH IN PERSON AND TELEHEALTH*** We have 7 therapists working with depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, domestic violence, children, adolescent and couples. We utlitize cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, strength-based therapy, EMDR and solutions-focused therapy in a client-centered, non-judgmental atmosphere.
****Cambrio Counseling has immediate openings in N. Raleigh Locations for adults, children and couples ****ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. BOTH IN PERSON AND TELEHEALTH*** We have 7 therapists working with depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, domestic violence, children, adolescent and couples. We utlitize cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, strength-based therapy, EMDR and solutions-focused therapy in a client-centered, non-judgmental atmosphere.
(984) 232-6454 View (984) 232-6454
Photo of Dr. Mary Woodson, PhD, LCAS, LCMHC, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Dr. Mary Woodson
Counselor, PhD, LCAS, LCMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607  (Online Only)
I provide counseling services to families, adults, and adolescents (ages 12-19) with general mental health concerns and substance use disorders.
If you or your teenager can answer yes to ANY of these questions, let's schedule a time to meet conveniently online: Feeling hopeless or like things aren't going to get better? Having difficulty speaking up for yourself or communicating with others?Is it hard adjusting to change? Do you wish you had a clear plan towards reaching your goals? Do you deal with stress? Are you in an open, poly, or non-monogamous relationship (ENM)? Do you have negative thoughts or struggle with low self-esteem? Are you starting to use alcohol or drugs to cope with your problems and worried it may be getting out of control?
I provide counseling services to families, adults, and adolescents (ages 12-19) with general mental health concerns and substance use disorders.
If you or your teenager can answer yes to ANY of these questions, let's schedule a time to meet conveniently online: Feeling hopeless or like things aren't going to get better? Having difficulty speaking up for yourself or communicating with others?Is it hard adjusting to change? Do you wish you had a clear plan towards reaching your goals? Do you deal with stress? Are you in an open, poly, or non-monogamous relationship (ENM)? Do you have negative thoughts or struggle with low self-esteem? Are you starting to use alcohol or drugs to cope with your problems and worried it may be getting out of control?
(919) 899-2841 View (919) 899-2841
Photo of Lydia Kerns - Parr Therapeutic Solutions, LCSW, LCASA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Parr Therapeutic Solutions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCASA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I enjoy assisting clients who are struggling with life transitions, low self-esteem, or developing healthy relationships. As a result they may be experiencing anxiety, depression, or substance use issues. They are motivated and wanting to improve their mood and live a healthier and more fulfilling life. They are tired of feeling stuck and engaging in unhealthy and unhelpful habits.
I enjoy assisting clients who are struggling with life transitions, low self-esteem, or developing healthy relationships. As a result they may be experiencing anxiety, depression, or substance use issues. They are motivated and wanting to improve their mood and live a healthier and more fulfilling life. They are tired of feeling stuck and engaging in unhealthy and unhelpful habits.
(919) 276-8628 View (919) 276-8628
Photo of Antoinette Burch, LCSWA, LCASA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Antoinette Burch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
I’ve been working in the behavioral health field since 2017 and have worked in all levels of care available from outpatient to psychiatric inpatient units. The various populations I’ve worked with include individuals in the criminal justice systems, individuals with substance use disorders, chronically mentally ill individuals, individuals in crisis, and those with co-occurring disorders. My depth of experience in the field allows me to navigate complex situations to help you promote change and progress.
I’ve been working in the behavioral health field since 2017 and have worked in all levels of care available from outpatient to psychiatric inpatient units. The various populations I’ve worked with include individuals in the criminal justice systems, individuals with substance use disorders, chronically mentally ill individuals, individuals in crisis, and those with co-occurring disorders. My depth of experience in the field allows me to navigate complex situations to help you promote change and progress.
(984) 331-4989 View (984) 331-4989
Photo of Kennedy Fipps, MSW, LCSWA
Kennedy Fipps
LCSW Associate , MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607
I most enjoy supporting clients with substance use history, religious trauma, or who are LGBTQ+ identifying.
Welcome! Intentionality and authenticity are most important to me as a therapist. I strive to create a safe space for clients to become better attuned to themselves and their needs. My background in substance use treatment, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and perinatal mental health has offered me an array of experiences working with clients with diverse identities, various goals, and life challenges which have shaped who they are. I hope to work alongside clients as they find joy and healing on their journeys. Self-compassion, emotional exploration, and values identification are effective tools I use with clients to promote growth and discovery.
I most enjoy supporting clients with substance use history, religious trauma, or who are LGBTQ+ identifying.
Welcome! Intentionality and authenticity are most important to me as a therapist. I strive to create a safe space for clients to become better attuned to themselves and their needs. My background in substance use treatment, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and perinatal mental health has offered me an array of experiences working with clients with diverse identities, various goals, and life challenges which have shaped who they are. I hope to work alongside clients as they find joy and healing on their journeys. Self-compassion, emotional exploration, and values identification are effective tools I use with clients to promote growth and discovery.
(984) 339-1909 View (984) 339-1909
Photo of Clint Lee Stiles, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clint Lee Stiles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Hi! I’m Clint, a cisgender LGBTQ+ therapist. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist in North Carolina, and I earned my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 2017. I have worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings at community clinics and hospital systems in Winston-Salem, NC. I make it my mission to partner with individuals and families who are struggling with substance use and mental health issues by offering a safe, supportive, empathetic, and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment.
Hi! I’m Clint, a cisgender LGBTQ+ therapist. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist in North Carolina, and I earned my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 2017. I have worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings at community clinics and hospital systems in Winston-Salem, NC. I make it my mission to partner with individuals and families who are struggling with substance use and mental health issues by offering a safe, supportive, empathetic, and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment.
(336) 753-5703 View (336) 753-5703
Photo of Ashlyn Nelson, LCSW
Ashlyn Nelson
LCSW Associate, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27613
I am an LCSW-A with over three years of experience as a social worker, having graduated from Salem College and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. My background includes working with individuals and families affected by violence, including adults, teenagers, and children. This experience has equipped me to address challenges such as grief, depression, anxiety, substance use, panic, self-esteem issues, suicidality, and trauma. Additionally, I have worked with veterans, providing support for medical issues, family struggles, aging, and end-of-life care. I also have specialized training in substance use and addiction.
I am an LCSW-A with over three years of experience as a social worker, having graduated from Salem College and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. My background includes working with individuals and families affected by violence, including adults, teenagers, and children. This experience has equipped me to address challenges such as grief, depression, anxiety, substance use, panic, self-esteem issues, suicidality, and trauma. Additionally, I have worked with veterans, providing support for medical issues, family struggles, aging, and end-of-life care. I also have specialized training in substance use and addiction.
(336) 234-3956 View (336) 234-3956
Photo of Ashley Martin, MS, LCMHCA, LCAS
Ashley Martin
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
While I specialize in providing support and guidance to those individuals who are struggling with substance use or addictions, I also have a passion for working with clients presenting with other concerns such as anxiety, spirituality, and depression.
Life can be tough, am I right? Between work, your social life, and family priorities, you may feel stressed out, overextended, or constantly tense. Avoiding the problem or turning to a glass of wine or a pill has brought you comfort in the past, but is no longer providing the relief you seek. Maybe that one glass or one pill has turned into two, three, or four, or maybe you lost count. You are at a crossroads. You want to regain control over your life but aren’t sure where to start. Together, we can address the stressors you're facing by developing healthy coping strategies and fostering a stronger sense of self-worth.
While I specialize in providing support and guidance to those individuals who are struggling with substance use or addictions, I also have a passion for working with clients presenting with other concerns such as anxiety, spirituality, and depression.
Life can be tough, am I right? Between work, your social life, and family priorities, you may feel stressed out, overextended, or constantly tense. Avoiding the problem or turning to a glass of wine or a pill has brought you comfort in the past, but is no longer providing the relief you seek. Maybe that one glass or one pill has turned into two, three, or four, or maybe you lost count. You are at a crossroads. You want to regain control over your life but aren’t sure where to start. Together, we can address the stressors you're facing by developing healthy coping strategies and fostering a stronger sense of self-worth.
(336) 276-0062 View (336) 276-0062
Photo of Heather Replogle, LCMHC, LCAS, Counselor
Heather Replogle
Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27613
I am a licensed mental health and addictions counselor committed to helping individuals overcome challenges and develop healthier relationships with themselves and others. My passion is in helping individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, PTSD/trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, and self-esteem/identity issues. Incorporating elements of cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, and solution-focused therapies, we can work together to discover what works best for you.
I am a licensed mental health and addictions counselor committed to helping individuals overcome challenges and develop healthier relationships with themselves and others. My passion is in helping individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, PTSD/trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, and self-esteem/identity issues. Incorporating elements of cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, and solution-focused therapies, we can work together to discover what works best for you.
(336) 810-1657 View (336) 810-1657
Photo of Lb Brier, LCAS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lb Brier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCAS, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603
Waitlist for new clients
I often work autistic folks and people struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use addiction, and life transitions.
I strive to reach clients where they are holistically and enjoy working with people at every phase of their journey. My goal as a therapist is to establish an authentic and trusting relationship to work together to help you live a fulfilling life. I understand that reaching out is a huge step for many people, and I am here to guide you through the process of beginning and getting the most out of therapy. I want to help folks realize their goals of self-actualization, peace, contentment, and happiness.
I often work autistic folks and people struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use addiction, and life transitions.
I strive to reach clients where they are holistically and enjoy working with people at every phase of their journey. My goal as a therapist is to establish an authentic and trusting relationship to work together to help you live a fulfilling life. I understand that reaching out is a huge step for many people, and I am here to guide you through the process of beginning and getting the most out of therapy. I want to help folks realize their goals of self-actualization, peace, contentment, and happiness.
(828) 373-2480 View (828) 373-2480
Photo of Robert M Cox, EdD, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, CCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robert M Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603
My experience is in crisis services, substance use, anxiety, and depression.
Life can be tough, leaving us feeling helpless and tired. You don't have to be alone during those times. When you're struggling with grief, pain, anxiety, or depression from the effects of traumatic experiences, discrimination, toxic environments, or substance use (yours or another's), reach out to Cox Family Wellness. We will support your strength and resilience, help you problem-solve, and, most of all, help you live into a new future. We are trauma-informed and certified in Autism treatment.
My experience is in crisis services, substance use, anxiety, and depression.
Life can be tough, leaving us feeling helpless and tired. You don't have to be alone during those times. When you're struggling with grief, pain, anxiety, or depression from the effects of traumatic experiences, discrimination, toxic environments, or substance use (yours or another's), reach out to Cox Family Wellness. We will support your strength and resilience, help you problem-solve, and, most of all, help you live into a new future. We are trauma-informed and certified in Autism treatment.
(704) 529-9160 View (704) 529-9160
Photo of Robyn Widelo, PMHNP
Robyn Widelo
PMHNP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27605
Since becoming a nurse practitioner, she has had a strong passion working with clients dealing with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, depression, substance use, bipolar disorder.
Robyn is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 35 years of nursing experience ranging from oncology, hospice, psychiatry and community health setting. She received her Bachelor of Science of Nursing at Radford University and Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University.
Since becoming a nurse practitioner, she has had a strong passion working with clients dealing with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, depression, substance use, bipolar disorder.
Robyn is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with 35 years of nursing experience ranging from oncology, hospice, psychiatry and community health setting. She received her Bachelor of Science of Nursing at Radford University and Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University.
(336) 502-2869 View (336) 502-2869
Photo of Dharma Pantha - Dharma Counseling Services, LPCS, LCAS, CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dharma Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCS, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
Mental Health/ substance use assessment and counseling, EAP counseling, DWI/DUI evaluations and ADETS, short and long term treatment.
As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS) I provide individual psychotherapy, viewing each individual within the context of their environment & their inner sources. I have worked at all levels of care. I appreciate collaborating with other treatment providers to provide the best care possible. In the midst of a struggle, we can often lose sight of our strengths, and I work alongside clients to re-connect to their inherent resilience/resources. I meet clients where they are and strive to create a therapeutic environment that is affirming, accepting and inclusive
Mental Health/ substance use assessment and counseling, EAP counseling, DWI/DUI evaluations and ADETS, short and long term treatment.
As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS) I provide individual psychotherapy, viewing each individual within the context of their environment & their inner sources. I have worked at all levels of care. I appreciate collaborating with other treatment providers to provide the best care possible. In the midst of a struggle, we can often lose sight of our strengths, and I work alongside clients to re-connect to their inherent resilience/resources. I meet clients where they are and strive to create a therapeutic environment that is affirming, accepting and inclusive
(919) 629-0476 View (919) 629-0476
Photo of Jennifer Burgin, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CEDS, CIEC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Burgin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CEDS, CIEC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27601
I specialize in substance use/addiction, eating disorders, and other mental health issues.
Accepting NEW patients! I am licensed in 14 states and offer evening and weekend appointments to meet you hectic scheduling needs. I strive to be different than other therapists and will go above and beyond to customize therapy just for you, so your therapy experience will be one that focuses on your goals and desires without fear of judgement or expressing yourself with someone that truly "gets it." I have worked with patients 3-83 years old and I am passionate about taking you from where you are to where you want to be in life. Go to this link to schedule a consult/appointment: secure.helloalma.com/providers/jennifer-burgin/
I specialize in substance use/addiction, eating disorders, and other mental health issues.
Accepting NEW patients! I am licensed in 14 states and offer evening and weekend appointments to meet you hectic scheduling needs. I strive to be different than other therapists and will go above and beyond to customize therapy just for you, so your therapy experience will be one that focuses on your goals and desires without fear of judgement or expressing yourself with someone that truly "gets it." I have worked with patients 3-83 years old and I am passionate about taking you from where you are to where you want to be in life. Go to this link to schedule a consult/appointment: secure.helloalma.com/providers/jennifer-burgin/
(910) 886-1279 View (910) 886-1279
Photo of Jarrett McGinnis, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jarrett McGinnis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27601
I have worked with people seeking recovery from mental health challenges, substance use, and the stresses of life's circumstances for over 10 years.
You’ve known easier times, or you know they’re out there and you’re looking for them. You're taking action to feel better in the face of challenge and that’s a big deal. You deserve the support of someone familiar with challenging times. The empathy and proactive engagement you'll come to expect in your work with me, come from a place of understanding the urgency for resolution that accompanies pain. You have the capacity to learn and grow in the ways necessary to find relief, peace of mind, connection with others, and a sense of competence in the activities that are important to you.
I have worked with people seeking recovery from mental health challenges, substance use, and the stresses of life's circumstances for over 10 years.
You’ve known easier times, or you know they’re out there and you’re looking for them. You're taking action to feel better in the face of challenge and that’s a big deal. You deserve the support of someone familiar with challenging times. The empathy and proactive engagement you'll come to expect in your work with me, come from a place of understanding the urgency for resolution that accompanies pain. You have the capacity to learn and grow in the ways necessary to find relief, peace of mind, connection with others, and a sense of competence in the activities that are important to you.
(828) 618-5067 View (828) 618-5067
Photo of Ben Morton, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ben Morton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27606
Waitlist for new clients
Currently full. Hello! I appreciate you being here. Working in diverse treatment settings have helped shaped my therapeutic framework as well as the people who I enjoy working with. My therapeutic framework is integrative and holistic where I incorporate mind, body, and spirit into our work. My client's will typically have experiences of or identify as: people who use drugs or have a history of substance use, members of the LBTQIA+ community, millennials, children of emotionally immature parents, high achievers, dysregulated nervous systems, spiritual, past trauma, new at therapy, and anticapitalist/social justice advocates.
Currently full. Hello! I appreciate you being here. Working in diverse treatment settings have helped shaped my therapeutic framework as well as the people who I enjoy working with. My therapeutic framework is integrative and holistic where I incorporate mind, body, and spirit into our work. My client's will typically have experiences of or identify as: people who use drugs or have a history of substance use, members of the LBTQIA+ community, millennials, children of emotionally immature parents, high achievers, dysregulated nervous systems, spiritual, past trauma, new at therapy, and anticapitalist/social justice advocates.
(919) 355-9820 View (919) 355-9820
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Substance Use Therapists

How do substance and drug recovery or rehabilitation programs work?

In inpatient programs, individuals live in a facility with other clients in recovery; in outpatient programs, individuals reside at home. These facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, psychologists, counselors, and psychotherapists. Staff often also includes people who have recovered themselves, serving as mentors and guides. These programs may use abstinence, harm reduction, detoxification, psychotherapy, and other methods.

How do 12-step programs combined with psychotherapy work?

Members of 12-step programs help each other reach abstinence and work to maintain it. These programs promote complete change in the individual’s emotional, mental, physical, and even spiritual perspectives. Some programs require that new members attend 90 meetings in 90 days. Many people do attend these programs in conjunction with their work in psychotherapy; the combination of therapy along with 12-step can be extremely effective.

How does harm reduction combined with psychotherapy work?

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, harm reduction prevents death, injury, disease, overdose, and substance misuse. People who choose harm reduction for substance use reduce the amount of drugs they consume. It is not abstinence-based like a 12-step program, but combining harm reduction with psychotherapy proves to be effective for many people.

Are there specific medications for substance and drug use?

There are medications approved to treat substance use disorder—such as buprenorphine, methadone, naltrexone, and acamprosate. These medications do help people cope with substance use as well as avoid the problem of relapse. Naltrexone can help reduce cravings, methadone is an opioid medication used to treat severe pain, and acamprosate may help ease symptoms like poor sleep and anxious feelings.