Substance Use Therapists in Saint Pauls, NC
![Photo of Vanessa D Mcneill - New Journey, SAP, CSAC, PFLC, CLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a81e3b6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My focus is to prevent drug abuse by awareness .Some time the misuse of alcohol and drugs change how the mind and body work. It is possible to abuse some substances without becoming physically, emotionally, or psychologically dependent on them. We at New Journey focus on awareness and solution treatment.
My focus is to prevent drug abuse by awareness .Some time the misuse of alcohol and drugs change how the mind and body work. It is possible to abuse some substances without becoming physically, emotionally, or psychologically dependent on them. We at New Journey focus on awareness and solution treatment.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Nanette L Strang, MS, LCAS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb5fdff1-ab89-4136-b166-a0f129b15d7b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you ready to start the work towards healthy living? Finding value while creating the mindset and life you are meant and want to live. Let's connect and start the journey together! I have been providing Substance Abuse therapy as a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist in the state of North Carolina since 2018 once receiving a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling. With 8 years of working with diverse individuals with Mental Health and Substance Abuse diagnosis through individual, couple, family, and group therapeutic settings.
Are you ready to start the work towards healthy living? Finding value while creating the mindset and life you are meant and want to live. Let's connect and start the journey together! I have been providing Substance Abuse therapy as a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist in the state of North Carolina since 2018 once receiving a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling. With 8 years of working with diverse individuals with Mental Health and Substance Abuse diagnosis through individual, couple, family, and group therapeutic settings.
![Photo of Tiffany Nicole Douglas, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21817eb0-ae31-4176-a15b-218f0939ab5a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffany Nicole Douglas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hope Mills, NC 28348 (Online Only)
I am a very blunt therapist and will always lay out the process and what that looks like for each individual client. The intake can be very boring, as I ask many questions to gain an understanding of how I can help. I then make sure we have a mutual agreement when creating a plan for therapy that includes how we can recognize progress in therapy. I typically do not assign homework as I understand that there is not always time for homework with all of life's demands. I specialize in trauma and couples but have worked with many different diagnoses.
I am a very blunt therapist and will always lay out the process and what that looks like for each individual client. The intake can be very boring, as I ask many questions to gain an understanding of how I can help. I then make sure we have a mutual agreement when creating a plan for therapy that includes how we can recognize progress in therapy. I typically do not assign homework as I understand that there is not always time for homework with all of life's demands. I specialize in trauma and couples but have worked with many different diagnoses.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Connie Artero, MA, LCMHC, LCAS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ad242af-57a1-4c6e-8b93-ca92df2d76cd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Connie Artero
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607 (Online Only)
I have additional training and licensure in substance use and addictions.
Accepting New Clients. Evening and Saturday appointments available. Life can be challenging and there are times when we may feel overwhelmed and unsure how to cope. I believe in the power of thoughts to drive emotional and behavioral responses, and I provide a safe and nonjudgemental space for you to express these thoughts and feelings, while teaching coping skills to lessen symptoms and empower you to make decisions that improve your overall quality of life.
I have additional training and licensure in substance use and addictions.
Accepting New Clients. Evening and Saturday appointments available. Life can be challenging and there are times when we may feel overwhelmed and unsure how to cope. I believe in the power of thoughts to drive emotional and behavioral responses, and I provide a safe and nonjudgemental space for you to express these thoughts and feelings, while teaching coping skills to lessen symptoms and empower you to make decisions that improve your overall quality of life.
![Photo of Lauren Adams, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/432a3192-25f1-43c7-bdd3-aa1468c2826e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a counseling psychologist who offers individual therapy to adolescents and adults. I have extensive experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, relational/interpersonal conflict, substance use concerns, sleep disorders, and stress management. I have particular expertise in working with emerging adults and students navigating the pressures of undergraduate and graduate schooling. Lastly, I have specialized training and experience in substance use specific concerns, including interests in addressing problematic risk and examining our overall relationship to substances.
I am a counseling psychologist who offers individual therapy to adolescents and adults. I have extensive experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, relational/interpersonal conflict, substance use concerns, sleep disorders, and stress management. I have particular expertise in working with emerging adults and students navigating the pressures of undergraduate and graduate schooling. Lastly, I have specialized training and experience in substance use specific concerns, including interests in addressing problematic risk and examining our overall relationship to substances.
![Photo of Madison Tobin, MS, LCMHC-A, CRC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32e60a66-3838-40ef-9e08-455f6f4c9fa2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Madison Tobin
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHC-A, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sanford, NC 27330 (Online Only)
Have you recently noticed a change in your life that left you feeling “stuck”, alone, scared, or even hopeless? I work with clients experiencing a variety of concerns, but most often with those experiencing Anxiety, Depression, Interpersonal Struggles, School/Life Changes, Post Traumatic Stress, medical crises, and substance use disorders to encourage them to openly and honestly work through hard topics, and leave the space feeling more confident and resilient. I specialize in working with adult clients, pre-teens and teens, individuals and families in the palliative care system, and Veterans.
Have you recently noticed a change in your life that left you feeling “stuck”, alone, scared, or even hopeless? I work with clients experiencing a variety of concerns, but most often with those experiencing Anxiety, Depression, Interpersonal Struggles, School/Life Changes, Post Traumatic Stress, medical crises, and substance use disorders to encourage them to openly and honestly work through hard topics, and leave the space feeling more confident and resilient. I specialize in working with adult clients, pre-teens and teens, individuals and families in the palliative care system, and Veterans.
![Photo of Kris Brooks Lesneski, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab930c96-b06a-44a6-969c-1dfc9b294651/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kris Brooks Lesneski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28311
Waitlist for new clients
Kris is experienced in counseling and treating child, adolescent and adult populations through individual, group and family therapy. She works with those facing mental health, behavioral and substance use challenges to achieve their overall whole person goals through mindfulness and therapeutic techniques with a strength’s perspective and person-centered approach.
Kris is experienced in counseling and treating child, adolescent and adult populations through individual, group and family therapy. She works with those facing mental health, behavioral and substance use challenges to achieve their overall whole person goals through mindfulness and therapeutic techniques with a strength’s perspective and person-centered approach.
![Photo of Faye Wilkes, LCSWA, LCASA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8bd59ee8-5fad-4119-918a-9fb5118234bb/1/320x400.jpeg)
I use an empowerment lens in my practice because I believe wholeheartedly in the strength and potential of every individual. My goal as a therapist is to foster a safe and authentic space where clients can engage in meaningful change and growth. I hope to guide clients in identifying and leveraging their strengths to meet their goals. With experience in addressing co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders, I can provide comprehensive treatment to individuals navigating these complex challenges. If you’re seeking personalized support on your path to healing and self-discovery, I am here to walk alongside you.
I use an empowerment lens in my practice because I believe wholeheartedly in the strength and potential of every individual. My goal as a therapist is to foster a safe and authentic space where clients can engage in meaningful change and growth. I hope to guide clients in identifying and leveraging their strengths to meet their goals. With experience in addressing co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders, I can provide comprehensive treatment to individuals navigating these complex challenges. If you’re seeking personalized support on your path to healing and self-discovery, I am here to walk alongside you.
![Photo of Eric Guendner, LPA, LCAS, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52806817-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Eric Guendner
Psychological Associate, LPA, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405
Waitlist for new clients
If you are struggling with the effects of emotion dysregulation, suicidal thoughts, self harm, substance use and trauma in your life, there is a way to build a life worth living and I would like to assist you in building it.
I use the specialist rather than the generalist model of care. I am board certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and certified in Prolonged Exposure for PTSD and maintain up to date continuing education, seek any needed supervision, and keep up with relevant research findings in those areas. As such, I am particularly qualified to work with clients who seek treatment for issues related to Borderline Personality Disorder, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Substance Use Disorders and PTSD.. I believe that if you are suffering from a specific issue, you deserve to receive the appropriate care for that issue.
If you are struggling with the effects of emotion dysregulation, suicidal thoughts, self harm, substance use and trauma in your life, there is a way to build a life worth living and I would like to assist you in building it.
I use the specialist rather than the generalist model of care. I am board certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and certified in Prolonged Exposure for PTSD and maintain up to date continuing education, seek any needed supervision, and keep up with relevant research findings in those areas. As such, I am particularly qualified to work with clients who seek treatment for issues related to Borderline Personality Disorder, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Substance Use Disorders and PTSD.. I believe that if you are suffering from a specific issue, you deserve to receive the appropriate care for that issue.
![Photo of Buffy Taylor, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9151734-d21c-4916-b22c-c24a8b0873fa/4/320x400.jpeg)
Buffy Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
I specialize in supporting individuals who face depression, anxiety, mood/behavioral issues, and trauma. My expertise lies in working with survivors of sexual trauma and abuse, offering compassionate guidance and utilizing evidence-based therapies such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to help process and overcome past barriers. Additionally, as an Addictions Specialist, I am committed to assisting those navigating substance use and recovery.
I specialize in supporting individuals who face depression, anxiety, mood/behavioral issues, and trauma. My expertise lies in working with survivors of sexual trauma and abuse, offering compassionate guidance and utilizing evidence-based therapies such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to help process and overcome past barriers. Additionally, as an Addictions Specialist, I am committed to assisting those navigating substance use and recovery.
![Photo of Claire Wilson, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fe491cd-e1ac-42a2-a91f-0fafb6f68375/2/320x400.png)
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, grief, personality disorders, intrusive thoughts, all types of abuse, anger management, OCD, ADHD, autism, IDD, trauma, PTSD, attachment disorders, eating disorders, mood disorders, bipolar, suicidal ideation, substance use disorder, addiction, relapse, cravings, and more.
not sure what to do? I'm here to help! My name is Claire. I love dogs and nature! I specialize in co-disorders, working with any and all clients struggling with mental health and substance abuse. I respect and value the uniqueness of each client from all walks of life, and believe in creating a space where all individuals feel welcome to be their authentic self.
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, grief, personality disorders, intrusive thoughts, all types of abuse, anger management, OCD, ADHD, autism, IDD, trauma, PTSD, attachment disorders, eating disorders, mood disorders, bipolar, suicidal ideation, substance use disorder, addiction, relapse, cravings, and more.
not sure what to do? I'm here to help! My name is Claire. I love dogs and nature! I specialize in co-disorders, working with any and all clients struggling with mental health and substance abuse. I respect and value the uniqueness of each client from all walks of life, and believe in creating a space where all individuals feel welcome to be their authentic self.
![Photo of Mona Nour - Nour Counseling & Consulting, PLLC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba98d948-8514-4d26-a86b-e648fb990635/1/320x400.png)
We address a wide array of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, racial trauma, oppression and discrimination, career counseling, career conflict, PTSD, life transitions, relationship conflict, ADHD, substance use, bipolar disorder, sexual abuse, narcissistic abuse, and more.
Has finding an inclusive therapist been a challenge for you? Do you need a counselor who understands experiences around BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, neurodiversity, ability differences, and any other wonderful traits that make you who you are? As therapists at Nour Counseling, we self-identify with historically marginalized backgrounds, and have a special passion for supporting our communities. You can come to each therapy session resting assured that your therapist recognizes how the intersection of your various identities impacts the way you experience the world and presenting concerns. We celebrate folx who identify as bicultural, Black, African American, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, ability diverse, and all who have been historically marginalized because… Everyone means everyone.
We address a wide array of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, racial trauma, oppression and discrimination, career counseling, career conflict, PTSD, life transitions, relationship conflict, ADHD, substance use, bipolar disorder, sexual abuse, narcissistic abuse, and more.
Has finding an inclusive therapist been a challenge for you? Do you need a counselor who understands experiences around BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, neurodiversity, ability differences, and any other wonderful traits that make you who you are? As therapists at Nour Counseling, we self-identify with historically marginalized backgrounds, and have a special passion for supporting our communities. You can come to each therapy session resting assured that your therapist recognizes how the intersection of your various identities impacts the way you experience the world and presenting concerns. We celebrate folx who identify as bicultural, Black, African American, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, ability diverse, and all who have been historically marginalized because… Everyone means everyone.
![Photo of Cameron Garrison, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f706f16-8416-47c4-a67d-6f62219755f5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cameron Garrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707 (Online Only)
I'm really glad you're here. I work with folx living in Raleigh/Durham, Charlotte, and Greensboro areas, all through an easy telehealth therapy platform. My favorite work to do with clients is exploring parts of yourself that you don't like, parts that might need some extra attention or healing, and internal feelings or overwhelming body sensations (like anxiety, anger, or depression) that really seem to hold you back. I really enjoy working with cis women and queer folx, exploring anything from relationships to coming out, attachments styles, old or newer traumas, implementing positive self talk, substance use, and gender identity.
I'm really glad you're here. I work with folx living in Raleigh/Durham, Charlotte, and Greensboro areas, all through an easy telehealth therapy platform. My favorite work to do with clients is exploring parts of yourself that you don't like, parts that might need some extra attention or healing, and internal feelings or overwhelming body sensations (like anxiety, anger, or depression) that really seem to hold you back. I really enjoy working with cis women and queer folx, exploring anything from relationships to coming out, attachments styles, old or newer traumas, implementing positive self talk, substance use, and gender identity.
![Photo of Caroline Gregory, LCMHC, LCASA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbf41ec0-82b6-4c44-a096-1c3e6adfce30/3/320x400.jpeg)
I provide individual therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. My areas of work include, but are not limited to, those experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, mood disorders, personality disorders, relationship issues, communication issues, bullying, low self-esteem, self-criticism, impulsivity, self-harm, addiction, and substance use disorders.
I provide individual therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. My areas of work include, but are not limited to, those experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, mood disorders, personality disorders, relationship issues, communication issues, bullying, low self-esteem, self-criticism, impulsivity, self-harm, addiction, and substance use disorders.
![Photo of Erin Boyle, LCMHCA, MS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09502d5c-0191-4511-b706-9e5f31cddd79/2/320x400.jpeg)
I see you're looking for a therapist! Whether you're new to therapy or looking for a tune-up, looking at profiles is a great place to start. I am a North Carolina Board Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate. Prior to working in Ramsuer, I lived in Upstate New York and worked with adults and teens on a variety of mental health and substance use concerns for the first 5 years of my career. I love working with those with ADHD, neurodivergence, depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, as well as stress management and general life transitions.
I see you're looking for a therapist! Whether you're new to therapy or looking for a tune-up, looking at profiles is a great place to start. I am a North Carolina Board Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate. Prior to working in Ramsuer, I lived in Upstate New York and worked with adults and teens on a variety of mental health and substance use concerns for the first 5 years of my career. I love working with those with ADHD, neurodivergence, depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, as well as stress management and general life transitions.
![Photo of Jennifer L Harrell, LCMHCA, LCASA, CRC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43bcc7c8-9c82-4f2a-9080-0acc31747698/2/320x400.png)
I am a therapist at Living Beyond It in Smithfield, NC. I have spent the past two decades working in the mental health and substance use field. I am accepting new youth and adult patients. My specialties are transition age youth (ages 14-24) and at risk populations. If you or your child are having difficulty with anxiety, depression, social relationships or life in general, I would love to help!
I am a therapist at Living Beyond It in Smithfield, NC. I have spent the past two decades working in the mental health and substance use field. I am accepting new youth and adult patients. My specialties are transition age youth (ages 14-24) and at risk populations. If you or your child are having difficulty with anxiety, depression, social relationships or life in general, I would love to help!
![Photo of Shannon R Brennan, MS, LCMHC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19a8bc87-b458-42d5-b00a-c1913ed178c8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon R Brennan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
Clients typically seek me out to address Trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, addiction/substance use, divorce, grief, stress, self-esteem, relationships, and life transitions.
Accepting New Clients - I believe life brings varying degrees of struggle and pain, and we can all benefit from help to move through it. I also recognize the bravery it takes to reach out for help, and my goal is to establish an environment where individuals feel comfortable not only reaching out but also in the journey that follows. In my work with adults (18+), I employ client-centered and collaborative methods, meeting individuals where they are and creating a supportive atmosphere to explore their concerns.
Clients typically seek me out to address Trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, addiction/substance use, divorce, grief, stress, self-esteem, relationships, and life transitions.
Accepting New Clients - I believe life brings varying degrees of struggle and pain, and we can all benefit from help to move through it. I also recognize the bravery it takes to reach out for help, and my goal is to establish an environment where individuals feel comfortable not only reaching out but also in the journey that follows. In my work with adults (18+), I employ client-centered and collaborative methods, meeting individuals where they are and creating a supportive atmosphere to explore their concerns.
![Photo of Samir Hanef, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f14dc1e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide both outpatient mental health therapy and substance abuse/use assessments and therapy to all members of the community. Clients experiencing such issues as depression/anxiety, PTSD/trauma, life changes, gender identity concerns, and substance use will benefit from the services I offer. I utilize a person centered approach and work collaboratively with clients to address their needs. I meet clients 'where they are' and work with them to identify positive interventions and change. The comprehensive clinical assessments and substance abuse assessments I provide meet criteria for court ordered and school referred clients and can be completed in office or at your location.
I provide both outpatient mental health therapy and substance abuse/use assessments and therapy to all members of the community. Clients experiencing such issues as depression/anxiety, PTSD/trauma, life changes, gender identity concerns, and substance use will benefit from the services I offer. I utilize a person centered approach and work collaboratively with clients to address their needs. I meet clients 'where they are' and work with them to identify positive interventions and change. The comprehensive clinical assessments and substance abuse assessments I provide meet criteria for court ordered and school referred clients and can be completed in office or at your location.
![Photo of Leslye Herrera, MSW, LCSW-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d43da0e7-b5cd-4b56-afcf-45388540e207/1/320x400.jpeg)
I’m here to support you through challenges like anxiety, depression, stress, and substance use.
Welcome! Taking the first step toward therapy is a courageous decision, and I'm here to support you every step of the way. I work with children, teens, and young adults, and adults facing a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, stress, and substance use concerns. With a compassionate and personalized approach, I'll help you uncover your strengths and build resilience.
I’m here to support you through challenges like anxiety, depression, stress, and substance use.
Welcome! Taking the first step toward therapy is a courageous decision, and I'm here to support you every step of the way. I work with children, teens, and young adults, and adults facing a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, stress, and substance use concerns. With a compassionate and personalized approach, I'll help you uncover your strengths and build resilience.
![Photo of Debra A. Jenkins - Inspiring Hope Counseling & Recovery PLLC, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, BCCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53f718db-0342-435b-b9e3-74b8715d1e66/2/320x400.jpeg)
Inspiring Hope Counseling & Recovery PLLC
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, BCCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27613
I'm a Christian Counselor who specializes in Grief, Depression, Insomnia, Overthinking/Anxiety, Behavior Issues in Kids, Work/Life Stress, Self-Esteem, Trauma, Adult Child of Alcoholics Families and Alcohol/Substance Use.
I’ll be honest with you, change can be challenging, but you and I both know that if nothing changes, nothing changes. Maybe you’re ready to make a change, but you just don’t know where to begin. Perhaps you’ve started making changes, and you’ve hit a roadblock on your journey. I know that it takes courage to seek help when life hurts. It can be difficult to know what to do when you’re under stress. You might feel lost, but there is hope. You don’t have to figure it out alone. Sometimes an objective point of view is what you need to get back on track. It’s my genuine desire to see you grow.
I'm a Christian Counselor who specializes in Grief, Depression, Insomnia, Overthinking/Anxiety, Behavior Issues in Kids, Work/Life Stress, Self-Esteem, Trauma, Adult Child of Alcoholics Families and Alcohol/Substance Use.
I’ll be honest with you, change can be challenging, but you and I both know that if nothing changes, nothing changes. Maybe you’re ready to make a change, but you just don’t know where to begin. Perhaps you’ve started making changes, and you’ve hit a roadblock on your journey. I know that it takes courage to seek help when life hurts. It can be difficult to know what to do when you’re under stress. You might feel lost, but there is hope. You don’t have to figure it out alone. Sometimes an objective point of view is what you need to get back on track. It’s my genuine desire to see you grow.
See more therapy options for Saint Pauls
Nearby Substance Use Therapists Searches for Saint Pauls
- Aberdeen
- Fayetteville
- Fort Bragg
- Hope Mills
- Laurinburg
- Lillington
- Lumberton
- Pinehurst
- Raeford
- Southern Pines
- Spring Lake
- Whiteville
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.