Substance Use Therapists in Shelby, NC
![Photo of Yolanda Hall-Asbell - LDH Counseling and Consulting, PLLC, MS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b364e689-b147-4fa9-83e9-84a3193da83a/3/320x400.jpeg)
LDH Counseling and Consulting, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Shelby, NC 28150
21 years experience in Mental Health and Substance Use, and 6 years clinically experience.
I look forward to assisting you with developing the skills to live a more abundant life while implementing the tools that you already have! Life can be hard at times and with the right coping skills, life can be more manageable to those experiencing depression, grief, anxiety, substance use, and other mental health issues. Working with those who have experienced relationship issues, such as infidelity, abuse (domestic, verbal and/ or physical) can learn how to become a survivor instead of a victim. I know that building a healthy therapeutic relationship is the first step in the therapy process in a non-judgmental environment.
21 years experience in Mental Health and Substance Use, and 6 years clinically experience.
I look forward to assisting you with developing the skills to live a more abundant life while implementing the tools that you already have! Life can be hard at times and with the right coping skills, life can be more manageable to those experiencing depression, grief, anxiety, substance use, and other mental health issues. Working with those who have experienced relationship issues, such as infidelity, abuse (domestic, verbal and/ or physical) can learn how to become a survivor instead of a victim. I know that building a healthy therapeutic relationship is the first step in the therapy process in a non-judgmental environment.
![Photo of Matthew S. Beal, MACO, NCC, LCMHC, LCPC, MDiv](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fe38faf-7cb2-4dd1-91f6-d9e375205985/2/320x400.jpeg)
Matthew S. Beal
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MACO, NCC, LCMHC, LCPC, MDiv
Verified Verified
Shelby, NC 28152 (Online Only)
We all need quality counseling at times, and if you are thinking about counseling, well done! Every step requires courage, and I respect yours. Whether your needs seem small or overwhelming I would be honored to walk with you on your healing journey. My goals are to help you identify what human flourishing means for you, gain insight into what keeps you from living that fully, and develop the tools you need to move into that flourishing. I provide a safe, supportive space for the vital therapeutic relationship. And I offer teletherapy with a generous sliding scale fee structure to make your flourishing as accessible as possible!
We all need quality counseling at times, and if you are thinking about counseling, well done! Every step requires courage, and I respect yours. Whether your needs seem small or overwhelming I would be honored to walk with you on your healing journey. My goals are to help you identify what human flourishing means for you, gain insight into what keeps you from living that fully, and develop the tools you need to move into that flourishing. I provide a safe, supportive space for the vital therapeutic relationship. And I offer teletherapy with a generous sliding scale fee structure to make your flourishing as accessible as possible!
![Photo of Toni Nicholson Jones, MSW, LCSW, LCAS-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8563dff-5083-4675-b62b-adab843bea65/2/320x400.jpeg)
Toni Nicholson Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shelby, NC 28150
Some life experiences can leave us confused, afraid, angry, and longing for joy. Supporting individuals of all ages, couples or families trying to navigate a path back to joy is a privilege like no other. I provide honest encouragement and practical education to those who are seeking positive changes.
Some life experiences can leave us confused, afraid, angry, and longing for joy. Supporting individuals of all ages, couples or families trying to navigate a path back to joy is a privilege like no other. I provide honest encouragement and practical education to those who are seeking positive changes.
![Photo of Carolyn Little Linder, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63ee8efb-f907-457c-9538-62e2d3fa1138/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carolyn Little Linder
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Shelby, NC 28152 (Online Only)
I am a survivor too! We are living in stressful times and sometimes things happen in life that are out of our control and we need help. We may need help getting our life back on track or just feeling normal again. Sometimes we need to know its ok to not be ok. It's ok to seek professional help, whether its because of addiction, family dysfunction, mood disorders, or just someone to talk to. The goal at the end of the day is to feel like you have a sense of purpose, meaning, and direction in life. There is no such thing as a perfect life but you can give yourself permission to come out of the dark places and start living again.
I am a survivor too! We are living in stressful times and sometimes things happen in life that are out of our control and we need help. We may need help getting our life back on track or just feeling normal again. Sometimes we need to know its ok to not be ok. It's ok to seek professional help, whether its because of addiction, family dysfunction, mood disorders, or just someone to talk to. The goal at the end of the day is to feel like you have a sense of purpose, meaning, and direction in life. There is no such thing as a perfect life but you can give yourself permission to come out of the dark places and start living again.
![Photo of Andrew M Woods, LCMHC, MA, EdS, MDiv, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fabc48a3-3952-46af-9d39-81192ae061c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrew M Woods
Counselor, LCMHC, MA, EdS, MDiv, NCC
Verified Verified
Shelby, NC 28150 (Online Only)
An important element I bring into counseling is a holistic understanding of you and your system. Through this, we discover dynamic ways to affect the issues in which you desire to see positive and enduring change. Furthermore, I practice a balanced approach. One side of counseling is more hands-on advising that involves practical and effective life skills. On the other side, counselors are neutral collaborators that facilitate self-exploration, depth, and healing. Through scholarly research and personal practice, I strive to bring both elements into my counseling relationships to achieve quick and lasting systemic change.
An important element I bring into counseling is a holistic understanding of you and your system. Through this, we discover dynamic ways to affect the issues in which you desire to see positive and enduring change. Furthermore, I practice a balanced approach. One side of counseling is more hands-on advising that involves practical and effective life skills. On the other side, counselors are neutral collaborators that facilitate self-exploration, depth, and healing. Through scholarly research and personal practice, I strive to bring both elements into my counseling relationships to achieve quick and lasting systemic change.
![Photo of Linda Shaffer, MA, EdS, LCAS, MAC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3de7cb98-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Linda Shaffer
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, EdS, LCAS, MAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shelby, NC 28150
Addiction is heart breaking for the patient and their loved ones. We can decide on an avenue for treatment which may be a referral to medical detoxification or inpatient substance abuse centers. If we work together on an outpatient bases, while you stay at home, my clients are willing to dive into the difficult work of changing ideas, behaviors and results in their lives. Engaging in therapy asks that you be willing to take risks and change ideas as well as your actions. I will guide you through the process of exploring your personal goals and the barriers to reaching these goals without the use of mind/mood altering substances.
Addiction is heart breaking for the patient and their loved ones. We can decide on an avenue for treatment which may be a referral to medical detoxification or inpatient substance abuse centers. If we work together on an outpatient bases, while you stay at home, my clients are willing to dive into the difficult work of changing ideas, behaviors and results in their lives. Engaging in therapy asks that you be willing to take risks and change ideas as well as your actions. I will guide you through the process of exploring your personal goals and the barriers to reaching these goals without the use of mind/mood altering substances.
![Photo of Emily Platt, MS, LCMHCA, LCASA, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be861df8-8293-4afd-8f21-41358ca4d2bf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you experiencing ADHD paralysis, executive dysfunction, or burnout? Burnout makes it feel impossible to take care of ourselves on top of life's never ending demands. Executive functioning is HARD, and emotion regulation can feel impossible some days. Whether you're new to therapy or returning, I can't wait to work with you at this point in your journey. I provide good vibes, positive energy and lots of crystals for you to feel safe to unmask and relax. Counseling is centered around you, so each session will be unique. We will work toward your goals together creatively. I use emotion regulation, DBT, MI, art therapy, CBT & more!
Are you experiencing ADHD paralysis, executive dysfunction, or burnout? Burnout makes it feel impossible to take care of ourselves on top of life's never ending demands. Executive functioning is HARD, and emotion regulation can feel impossible some days. Whether you're new to therapy or returning, I can't wait to work with you at this point in your journey. I provide good vibes, positive energy and lots of crystals for you to feel safe to unmask and relax. Counseling is centered around you, so each session will be unique. We will work toward your goals together creatively. I use emotion regulation, DBT, MI, art therapy, CBT & more!
Online Therapists
![Photo of Scott Fischer, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ec8e26d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Though I work with everyone, and all are welcome, always, I specialize in working with adolescent teens and adult men. Emphasizing mindfulness, my work is particularly effective in dealing with patterns of substance use or other addictive tendencies, social anxiety, ADHD, and important life transitions. Rather than having my own agenda, I appreciate helping clients clarify and compassionately move toward their vision, find meaning through challenge, and gain deeper understanding of their own dilemmas. I also enjoy helping people learn to communicate authentically with their loved ones in ways that help change detrimental patterns.
Though I work with everyone, and all are welcome, always, I specialize in working with adolescent teens and adult men. Emphasizing mindfulness, my work is particularly effective in dealing with patterns of substance use or other addictive tendencies, social anxiety, ADHD, and important life transitions. Rather than having my own agenda, I appreciate helping clients clarify and compassionately move toward their vision, find meaning through challenge, and gain deeper understanding of their own dilemmas. I also enjoy helping people learn to communicate authentically with their loved ones in ways that help change detrimental patterns.
![Photo of Katie Creech, LCSW, LCASA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9524997d-abc5-419b-b1ce-6be93f61f67c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Currently accepting new clients. Are you looking to make a change? Tired of feeling held back from being your best self? Maybe you feel like symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, or substance use are getting in the way of the goals and relationships that you want? All change can be difficult, and I'm here to stand with you and help you feel validated and empowered through your counseling journey. I want to offer you a safe and supportive space to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviors, to heal, and to take steps towards the meaningful life and goals that you want for yourself.
Currently accepting new clients. Are you looking to make a change? Tired of feeling held back from being your best self? Maybe you feel like symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, or substance use are getting in the way of the goals and relationships that you want? All change can be difficult, and I'm here to stand with you and help you feel validated and empowered through your counseling journey. I want to offer you a safe and supportive space to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviors, to heal, and to take steps towards the meaningful life and goals that you want for yourself.
![Photo of Kim Granelle, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4917852d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kim Granelle
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I work with adults through anxiety, depression, grief, loss, trauma, and substance use.
Perhaps like you, when I’ve felt trapped in my darkest moments, I never would have believed that pain could lead to my greatest inspirations. But through my own process in therapy, I have discovered that this is the truest paradox. So often, the way out is through and the key to our freedom is within what binds us. Shining a safe and supportive light into our deepest processes can provide the perspective and clarity needed to heed our own internal compass for healing. This process of reflection can sometimes feel daunting, so our therapeutic relationship is an important place to find safety on this journey that you're already on.
I work with adults through anxiety, depression, grief, loss, trauma, and substance use.
Perhaps like you, when I’ve felt trapped in my darkest moments, I never would have believed that pain could lead to my greatest inspirations. But through my own process in therapy, I have discovered that this is the truest paradox. So often, the way out is through and the key to our freedom is within what binds us. Shining a safe and supportive light into our deepest processes can provide the perspective and clarity needed to heed our own internal compass for healing. This process of reflection can sometimes feel daunting, so our therapeutic relationship is an important place to find safety on this journey that you're already on.
![Photo of Deirdre Doran, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78f57d5f-ed01-48db-aff1-d6fc20a0aede/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with people experiencing substance use disorders, trauma, grief and loss, anxiety or depression.
I have a decade of experience using a strengths-based approach, individualizing treatment for each person. I enjoy working collaboratively with clients to assist them in clarifying and achieving their goals. My clients feel listened to, safe and supported in overcoming barriers and growing towards becoming the best version of themselves.
I work with people experiencing substance use disorders, trauma, grief and loss, anxiety or depression.
I have a decade of experience using a strengths-based approach, individualizing treatment for each person. I enjoy working collaboratively with clients to assist them in clarifying and achieving their goals. My clients feel listened to, safe and supported in overcoming barriers and growing towards becoming the best version of themselves.
![Photo of Will Daddario, MEd, LCASA, LCHMCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30409c56-f248-40af-b392-a2afc23a8d11/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal clients are people who have co-occurring substance use and mental issues and/or co-occurring mental health issues (for example, Anxiety and Depression, Borderline Personality Disorder and PTSD). I also specialize in grief and trauma-informed approaches to personality and mood disorders.
My ideal clients are people who have co-occurring substance use and mental issues and/or co-occurring mental health issues (for example, Anxiety and Depression, Borderline Personality Disorder and PTSD). I also specialize in grief and trauma-informed approaches to personality and mood disorders.
![Photo of Shakeena Yvette Speller - Rise Up Counseling & Consulting PLLC, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/467d7b1c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rise Up Counseling & Consulting PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kannapolis, NC 28083 (Online Only)
Do you find yourself often feeling stressed, anxious, or depressed? Do you find yourself relying on alcohol or other addictive substances or behaviors to cope with life stresses? Do you feel like you don't know what direction your life is going and need guidance in identifying and accomplishing your personal goals? If you answer yes to any of these questions and you are ready to begin the process of healing and recovery, you do not need to search any further.
Do you find yourself often feeling stressed, anxious, or depressed? Do you find yourself relying on alcohol or other addictive substances or behaviors to cope with life stresses? Do you feel like you don't know what direction your life is going and need guidance in identifying and accomplishing your personal goals? If you answer yes to any of these questions and you are ready to begin the process of healing and recovery, you do not need to search any further.
![Photo of Lori Long, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7999423-ec4f-4b05-b86f-e626bd195d27/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lori Long
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277 (Online Only)
Some of her clinical experience includes but are not limited to, stress management, anxiety disorders, anger management, depression, substance use disorders, grief, and trauma.
Sometimes life can be overwhelming, and you find yourself needing someone to talk to without feeling judged. You may need some tools to help you navigate through troubling times. I am an Associate Licensed Clinical Social Worker and an Associate Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist with a background in community-based counseling as well as inpatient and outpatient treatment modalities. I received my Master’s in Social Work from East Tennessee State University. Anxiety, stress, depression, career counseling, and trauma are some of the challenges I can help with. I utilize an integration of evidenced-based modalities.
Some of her clinical experience includes but are not limited to, stress management, anxiety disorders, anger management, depression, substance use disorders, grief, and trauma.
Sometimes life can be overwhelming, and you find yourself needing someone to talk to without feeling judged. You may need some tools to help you navigate through troubling times. I am an Associate Licensed Clinical Social Worker and an Associate Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist with a background in community-based counseling as well as inpatient and outpatient treatment modalities. I received my Master’s in Social Work from East Tennessee State University. Anxiety, stress, depression, career counseling, and trauma are some of the challenges I can help with. I utilize an integration of evidenced-based modalities.
![Photo of Ebony Brooks - Ebony Brooks; Enduring Counseling Services PLLC, LCMHC, QS, LCASA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bdfbe898-075c-4992-b4fd-4a4f1e03c918/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ebony Brooks; Enduring Counseling Services PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, QS, LCASA
Verified Verified
Monroe, NC 28112
Greetings, My Goal is to enhance client’s ability to cope with everyday life challenges. I will treat clients based on their needs and will provide them with the best approach that will benefit them. "Live a meaningful life along with therapy." I provide services for Children/Adolescents (ages 6+) and Adults with mental health and substance use concerns. I am competent in theoretical approaches such as EMDR, Parent-Child Interaction therapy, person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focus therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy skills.
Greetings, My Goal is to enhance client’s ability to cope with everyday life challenges. I will treat clients based on their needs and will provide them with the best approach that will benefit them. "Live a meaningful life along with therapy." I provide services for Children/Adolescents (ages 6+) and Adults with mental health and substance use concerns. I am competent in theoretical approaches such as EMDR, Parent-Child Interaction therapy, person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focus therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy skills.
![Photo of Colleen Reed - Mountain Wellness Therapy, PLLC, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbb8e230-3b3a-410b-b574-db13389f18be/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mountain Wellness Therapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dillsboro, NC 28725
Waitlist for new clients
Everyone goes through hard times. Whether this is your first time, or it feels like it has been a lifetime, I specialize in helping adults who have found various challenges like anxiety and depression, substance use, or trauma (often a combination) to be sources of pain and suffering. I come from a place of understanding, not judgment. Being able to feel safe, heard, and understood are important parts of creating positive change and healing. I partner with you to create the goals you want to see come from our work together, and I use evidenced based methods to help you move forward in those directions.
Everyone goes through hard times. Whether this is your first time, or it feels like it has been a lifetime, I specialize in helping adults who have found various challenges like anxiety and depression, substance use, or trauma (often a combination) to be sources of pain and suffering. I come from a place of understanding, not judgment. Being able to feel safe, heard, and understood are important parts of creating positive change and healing. I partner with you to create the goals you want to see come from our work together, and I use evidenced based methods to help you move forward in those directions.
![Photo of Brandon Ostwalt, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e37cee6a-0d53-49bf-b0b6-26022b1f444f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brandon Ostwalt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Cornelius, NC 28031
I specialize in the treatment of adults and adolescents who are struggling with such issues as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and substance use disorders.
If you are reading this, just know that you have taken an important first step in your mental health recovery. It has been my privilege to work with a very diverse group of clients of varying races, ethnicities, nationalities, genders and gender identities, sexual orientations, religions, disabilities, etc. I have also worked with clients of all ages, but most of my work has been with those age 13 and older. I draw mainly from the evidence-based treatments of cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and dialectical behavioral-informed therapeutic interventions.
I specialize in the treatment of adults and adolescents who are struggling with such issues as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and substance use disorders.
If you are reading this, just know that you have taken an important first step in your mental health recovery. It has been my privilege to work with a very diverse group of clients of varying races, ethnicities, nationalities, genders and gender identities, sexual orientations, religions, disabilities, etc. I have also worked with clients of all ages, but most of my work has been with those age 13 and older. I draw mainly from the evidence-based treatments of cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and dialectical behavioral-informed therapeutic interventions.
![Photo of Mariel Olsen, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77e93ec0-69ca-4144-9d2e-0fe570b9dbea/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mariel Olsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801 (Online Only)
Life can get really heavy sometimes. I firmly believe that everyone can benefit from an intentional, safe, supportive, empathetic space and companion. Having been in the field for well over a decade has given me the opportunity to gain expertise in a variety of issues, particularly in treating anxiety, substance use, ADHD, existential angst, relationship issues, and transitions. I am a neurodiverse and LGBTQIA affirming provider.
Life can get really heavy sometimes. I firmly believe that everyone can benefit from an intentional, safe, supportive, empathetic space and companion. Having been in the field for well over a decade has given me the opportunity to gain expertise in a variety of issues, particularly in treating anxiety, substance use, ADHD, existential angst, relationship issues, and transitions. I am a neurodiverse and LGBTQIA affirming provider.
![Photo of Jessica Gruber, MA, LPA, LCAS, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a5a8dcc-4bc6-47f3-bb1f-2b8bb977f78c/4/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Gruber
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, LCAS
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786 (Online Only)
I work with adults seeking to change their lives. I have considerable experience helping people alleviate anxiety and depression, as well as, other mood disorders. I find creative ways to help people heal from trauma they have experienced and to connect with the present. I enjoy helping people who need help to tackle substance use issues such as alcohol or other drugs. I also work with couples using EFT to rebuild the bond between partners and create a healthier relationship with emotions.
I work with adults seeking to change their lives. I have considerable experience helping people alleviate anxiety and depression, as well as, other mood disorders. I find creative ways to help people heal from trauma they have experienced and to connect with the present. I enjoy helping people who need help to tackle substance use issues such as alcohol or other drugs. I also work with couples using EFT to rebuild the bond between partners and create a healthier relationship with emotions.
![Photo of Patrick Collins, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f9aee7c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patrick Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Sustainable change takes time and it has been well-known for years that the most important component of this change is the therapeutic relationship. Licensed to treat both mental health and substance use issues, I believe strongly that my clients are the experts of their own lives. Sometimes we just need help finding our way, and I am here to walk with you on that difficult journey. Our relationship will serve as the North Star.
Sustainable change takes time and it has been well-known for years that the most important component of this change is the therapeutic relationship. Licensed to treat both mental health and substance use issues, I believe strongly that my clients are the experts of their own lives. Sometimes we just need help finding our way, and I am here to walk with you on that difficult journey. Our relationship will serve as the North Star.
See more therapy options for Shelby
Nearby Substance Use Therapists Searches for Shelby
- Denver
- Forest City
- Gastonia
- Hickory
- Huntersville
- Kings Mountain
- Lincolnton
- Marion
- Morganton
- Newton
- Rutherfordton
- Sherrills Ford
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.