Substance Use Therapists in Montgomery, NJ
I specialize working with clients experiencing psychiatric/ substance abuse/dependence. My focus client population is adolescents and young adults. Also, I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD and the gamate of mental health disorders.A Social Skills Group is offered for adolescents who have social issues and Smoking Cessation Program is offered to those who want to stop smoking cigarettes. I have an interactive style and work collaboratively with clients and if appropriate with their families to help achieve their goals.
I specialize working with clients experiencing psychiatric/ substance abuse/dependence. My focus client population is adolescents and young adults. Also, I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD and the gamate of mental health disorders.A Social Skills Group is offered for adolescents who have social issues and Smoking Cessation Program is offered to those who want to stop smoking cigarettes. I have an interactive style and work collaboratively with clients and if appropriate with their families to help achieve their goals.
![Photo of Marion Rollings - Holistic Health Counseling Center , PhD, CG, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/498d9584-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Holistic Health Counseling Center
Psychologist, PhD, CG
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montgomery, NJ 08502 (Online Only)
Art Therapy Groups are open now. We provide Counseling, Psychotherapy and Art Therapy to adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families. Using a holistic approach to mental health and a client-centered approach to therapy, we use a wide range of therapeutic techniques and interventions to help you overcome the issues that brought you to therapy. Effective therapy is collaborative and interactive. We are here to help you feel better and overcome obstacles with the tools and techniques you need to move forward positively in your life.
Art Therapy Groups are open now. We provide Counseling, Psychotherapy and Art Therapy to adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families. Using a holistic approach to mental health and a client-centered approach to therapy, we use a wide range of therapeutic techniques and interventions to help you overcome the issues that brought you to therapy. Effective therapy is collaborative and interactive. We are here to help you feel better and overcome obstacles with the tools and techniques you need to move forward positively in your life.
![Photo of Michal Nina Saraf, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5241c3c9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have 30 years of experience in a range of settings with people of many different backgrounds. My professional experience in concert with my personal journey enable me to focus on the person in the room and strive to understand their unique needs, goals and how psychotherapy can help in this process. I believe that the psychotherapy relationship provides an ideal forum for helping people move towards optimal functioning framed by their values and goals. I provide a safe place to address issues of mood, thinking, behavior, transition, adjustment, interpersonal conflict, anxiety, trauma and any other life challenge.
I have 30 years of experience in a range of settings with people of many different backgrounds. My professional experience in concert with my personal journey enable me to focus on the person in the room and strive to understand their unique needs, goals and how psychotherapy can help in this process. I believe that the psychotherapy relationship provides an ideal forum for helping people move towards optimal functioning framed by their values and goals. I provide a safe place to address issues of mood, thinking, behavior, transition, adjustment, interpersonal conflict, anxiety, trauma and any other life challenge.
![Photo of Lisa M Zaneto, MA, LPC, ACS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4be8cbb8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa M Zaneto
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montgomery, NJ 08502
Supporting you in navigating life's challenges. Different stages of an individuals life come with important emotional junctures, milestone celebrations, and stages of growth. I believe that by creating a safe and non-judgmental environment, clients can feel supported during these times and increase personal confidence allowing them to make positive decisions, meet their goals and set the foundation for future success. My therapeutic approach is to offer clients a safe space to feel heard while utilizing creative therapeutic techniques, especially when clients are having trouble verbalizing what they are experiencing or feeling.
Supporting you in navigating life's challenges. Different stages of an individuals life come with important emotional junctures, milestone celebrations, and stages of growth. I believe that by creating a safe and non-judgmental environment, clients can feel supported during these times and increase personal confidence allowing them to make positive decisions, meet their goals and set the foundation for future success. My therapeutic approach is to offer clients a safe space to feel heard while utilizing creative therapeutic techniques, especially when clients are having trouble verbalizing what they are experiencing or feeling.
![Photo of Dr. Clint C Stankiewicz, MEd, PsyD, MCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/531d92df-2938-491e-871e-37a280148e7d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Despite having reached the pinnacle of my profession after nearly two decades of practice, it was my own struggle with learning disabilities, dual diagnosis and other medical conditions and issues, that changed my perspective and my life. I came to appreciate an approach which focuses on the here and now; solution focused and goal oriented. I found little solace in traditional therapeutic approaches which focused largely on the past, and went on for months with no real relief nor positive impact on my life or functioning. As such, I strive to help my clients achieve their goals and actualize their dreams using a coaching approach.
Despite having reached the pinnacle of my profession after nearly two decades of practice, it was my own struggle with learning disabilities, dual diagnosis and other medical conditions and issues, that changed my perspective and my life. I came to appreciate an approach which focuses on the here and now; solution focused and goal oriented. I found little solace in traditional therapeutic approaches which focused largely on the past, and went on for months with no real relief nor positive impact on my life or functioning. As such, I strive to help my clients achieve their goals and actualize their dreams using a coaching approach.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Wendy Alley, MPS, LPC, CHHC, AADP, SAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1be94647-4266-41a1-bdc2-f78ca622b75b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wendy Alley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPS, LPC, CHHC, AADP, SAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844 (Online Only)
Have you been trying to make a change, but feeling stuck? Maybe that job you're in is no longer inspiring, your relationship is no longer fulfilling, or there's a behavior or a habit you just wish you could stop. Trying to make these kinds of changes alone is frustrating, and often leaves us spinning our wheels, but stuck in that same place we know so well. If you sometimes find yourself overthinking, repeating old patterns, and/or getting caught up in self-criticism, you're not alone! Having a warm, compassionate, nonjudgmental, skilled therapist can help you remember your inherent strengths, and regain the balance you seek.
Have you been trying to make a change, but feeling stuck? Maybe that job you're in is no longer inspiring, your relationship is no longer fulfilling, or there's a behavior or a habit you just wish you could stop. Trying to make these kinds of changes alone is frustrating, and often leaves us spinning our wheels, but stuck in that same place we know so well. If you sometimes find yourself overthinking, repeating old patterns, and/or getting caught up in self-criticism, you're not alone! Having a warm, compassionate, nonjudgmental, skilled therapist can help you remember your inherent strengths, and regain the balance you seek.
![Photo of Claudine Lanahan, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c33794f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Most people, at some point in their lives, encounter periods of difficulty, change & transition; when personal issues affect their work & relationships. Issues such as family, marital, relationship, abuse of alcohol/drugs, or a variety of mental health concerns. I believe therapy provides options for change, in a safe nonjudgemental environment, and change is the catalyst for personal growth. Through empathy, supportive listening, and a partnership of learning, I can help you to understand and overcome your emotional struggles, helping you to develop positive coping skills, achieve greater emotional stability, self-esteem and self-respect.
Most people, at some point in their lives, encounter periods of difficulty, change & transition; when personal issues affect their work & relationships. Issues such as family, marital, relationship, abuse of alcohol/drugs, or a variety of mental health concerns. I believe therapy provides options for change, in a safe nonjudgemental environment, and change is the catalyst for personal growth. Through empathy, supportive listening, and a partnership of learning, I can help you to understand and overcome your emotional struggles, helping you to develop positive coping skills, achieve greater emotional stability, self-esteem and self-respect.
![Photo of Sean Bourgeoise, MA, LCADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/016d86b3-0839-42a0-a8d3-02f8e1d8e94d/5/320x400.jpeg)
Sean Bourgeoise
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LCADC
Verified Verified
Belle Mead, NJ 08502 (Online Only)
You've arrived here because you're determined to undergo a transformation. You're ready to break free from the past and start moving forward. Congratulations for making it this far! It takes a lot of courage to let go of old habits and envision a new future for yourself. Although it can be intimidating, it's also exciting. Think of it like jumping into a pool. Once you push past your fear and take the leap, change begins to happen. Your body and mind adjust to the refreshing water, and your mood and outlook start to improve.
You've arrived here because you're determined to undergo a transformation. You're ready to break free from the past and start moving forward. Congratulations for making it this far! It takes a lot of courage to let go of old habits and envision a new future for yourself. Although it can be intimidating, it's also exciting. Think of it like jumping into a pool. Once you push past your fear and take the leap, change begins to happen. Your body and mind adjust to the refreshing water, and your mood and outlook start to improve.
![Photo of Suzanne Rosenthal, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/464460a0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Suzanne Rosenthal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Welcome! I have had over 25 years of experience working as a Psychotherapist. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults through individual therapy, couples therapy, and family therapy. Clients find me to be open, down to earth, and empathetic. I provide a safe and supportive environment that will allow you to take risks and become empowered to change. We will set goals together specific to your needs. It is about time that you start to take better care of yourself and the ones you love! You will learn coping skills that will allow you to realize what you are capable and worthy of.
Welcome! I have had over 25 years of experience working as a Psychotherapist. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults through individual therapy, couples therapy, and family therapy. Clients find me to be open, down to earth, and empathetic. I provide a safe and supportive environment that will allow you to take risks and become empowered to change. We will set goals together specific to your needs. It is about time that you start to take better care of yourself and the ones you love! You will learn coping skills that will allow you to realize what you are capable and worthy of.
![Photo of Peter A. Miller - Peter A. Miller Psychotherapy, LLC, LCSW, DCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f7d6a6e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Peter A. Miller Psychotherapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Do you feel like your life is changing, but you don't know how to cope? Do you wonder where to go from here? Sometimes the way we think and the things we do that have worked in the past, don't work anymore. It takes a deeper exploration to find new ways of being one's true self in the world.
We are a group psychotherapy practice specializing in working with grief and loss, relationship issues, trauma, life transitions and the anxiety and depression that often accompany these issues.
Do you feel like your life is changing, but you don't know how to cope? Do you wonder where to go from here? Sometimes the way we think and the things we do that have worked in the past, don't work anymore. It takes a deeper exploration to find new ways of being one's true self in the world.
We are a group psychotherapy practice specializing in working with grief and loss, relationship issues, trauma, life transitions and the anxiety and depression that often accompany these issues.
![Photo of Jean M Robinson, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bd506e9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I create a supportive, non-judgmental, compassionate environment for client's to feel safe, respected and free to discuss any topic brought to counseling. My approach to counseling is client-centered & integrates various modalities using Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS). I provide counseling that is direct and goal oriented, yet compassionate, focusing on strengths and building on success. I enjoy working with teens/parents & couples to facilitate conscious communication which enhances their intimate relationships. I help connect clients with their own inner wisdom, enhance their clarity & decision making so that they can experience real transformation in their lives.
I create a supportive, non-judgmental, compassionate environment for client's to feel safe, respected and free to discuss any topic brought to counseling. My approach to counseling is client-centered & integrates various modalities using Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS). I provide counseling that is direct and goal oriented, yet compassionate, focusing on strengths and building on success. I enjoy working with teens/parents & couples to facilitate conscious communication which enhances their intimate relationships. I help connect clients with their own inner wisdom, enhance their clarity & decision making so that they can experience real transformation in their lives.
![Photo of Mara Myerson, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7fec6a67-2aaa-4d9a-8909-04f2e843e26d/4/320x400.jpeg)
Mara Myerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844 (Online Only)
WELCOME! Deciding to seek therapy is a big decision, and I'm ready to support your journey! Are you looking for a safe, non-judgmental space where you can freely explore your thoughts and emotions? As an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor (LCADC), I bring over a decade of success, guiding a broad range of clients through diverse mental health challenges. My therapeutic approach prioritizes empathy, respect, and understanding your unique needs. I've witnessed incredible transformations with my clients. This resilience & healing journey fuels my passion to help others.
WELCOME! Deciding to seek therapy is a big decision, and I'm ready to support your journey! Are you looking for a safe, non-judgmental space where you can freely explore your thoughts and emotions? As an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor (LCADC), I bring over a decade of success, guiding a broad range of clients through diverse mental health challenges. My therapeutic approach prioritizes empathy, respect, and understanding your unique needs. I've witnessed incredible transformations with my clients. This resilience & healing journey fuels my passion to help others.
![Photo of Mark V Bodino, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a37e9b3-6ce8-49dd-88b1-a545e53b6412/1/320x400.png)
As a practitioner, my primary goal is establishing a safe and open space for patients to explore and self-disclose. With 20 years of experience in working with adults and adolescents struggling with a variety of mental health and/or addiction concerns, my experience and scope of expertise is broad-ranging. Over time, I have assisted hundreds of clients with complex emotional, relationship addiction & work/life issues. Through identifying patient strengths and past successes, my goal is to collaborate with clients in improving their quality of life. (LGBTQ friendly)
As a practitioner, my primary goal is establishing a safe and open space for patients to explore and self-disclose. With 20 years of experience in working with adults and adolescents struggling with a variety of mental health and/or addiction concerns, my experience and scope of expertise is broad-ranging. Over time, I have assisted hundreds of clients with complex emotional, relationship addiction & work/life issues. Through identifying patient strengths and past successes, my goal is to collaborate with clients in improving their quality of life. (LGBTQ friendly)
![Photo of Jennifer Stradling, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63e60057-7c1d-4fa3-b859-c870d22a012e/2/320x400.png)
Jennifer Stradling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
I would identify my ideal client as an adolescent who is experiencing mental health issues and/or interpersonal difficulties. This could include an individual experiencing PTSD-related symptoms, depressive symptoms, anxiety, and other mental health-related issues. This could also include an individual experiencing life stressors/transitions, difficulties in developing healthy and sustainable relationships, complex grief, and lack of self-esteem and role identification. The goals of an ideal client would include improving mental health-related symptoms through the application of coping skills, communication skills, and self-esteem.
I would identify my ideal client as an adolescent who is experiencing mental health issues and/or interpersonal difficulties. This could include an individual experiencing PTSD-related symptoms, depressive symptoms, anxiety, and other mental health-related issues. This could also include an individual experiencing life stressors/transitions, difficulties in developing healthy and sustainable relationships, complex grief, and lack of self-esteem and role identification. The goals of an ideal client would include improving mental health-related symptoms through the application of coping skills, communication skills, and self-esteem.
![Photo of Joshua D Fink, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/151cb159-afc9-49c3-b465-a6d4c7d688f9/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a licensed psychologist, I provide a wide range of therapeutic services in the central and northern New Jersey region. Though I work with individuals of all ages, my specialty is treating adolescents and young professionals, specifically those going through transition (changing schools, choosing a career, parents are going through a divorce, etc). I use an integrated approach combining Humanistic, Psychodynamic, Cognitive-Behavioral, and Solution-Focused approaches. I also specialize and have a passion for Sports Psychology and am an affiliate of Wheelhouse Training located in Hillsboro, New Jersey.
As a licensed psychologist, I provide a wide range of therapeutic services in the central and northern New Jersey region. Though I work with individuals of all ages, my specialty is treating adolescents and young professionals, specifically those going through transition (changing schools, choosing a career, parents are going through a divorce, etc). I use an integrated approach combining Humanistic, Psychodynamic, Cognitive-Behavioral, and Solution-Focused approaches. I also specialize and have a passion for Sports Psychology and am an affiliate of Wheelhouse Training located in Hillsboro, New Jersey.
![Photo of Victoria Lipinski, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb89dfd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Victoria Lipinski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
I am a compassionate and caring therapist sensitive to the needs of my clients. I have been treating clients with behavioral health and addiction problems for the past 24 years. I specialize in individualizing treatment for each client and understand the role of stress in the environment and how stress impacts on the mind and body. I believe unresolved stress leads to imbalances in brain chemistry which cause depression, anxiety, and physical problems. I focus on making lifestyle changes which aid in the recovery process. Please see my website http://hillsboroughneuropsych.com/ for more information about my self and my associates.
I am a compassionate and caring therapist sensitive to the needs of my clients. I have been treating clients with behavioral health and addiction problems for the past 24 years. I specialize in individualizing treatment for each client and understand the role of stress in the environment and how stress impacts on the mind and body. I believe unresolved stress leads to imbalances in brain chemistry which cause depression, anxiety, and physical problems. I focus on making lifestyle changes which aid in the recovery process. Please see my website http://hillsboroughneuropsych.com/ for more information about my self and my associates.
![Photo of Lona M Stranieri - Princeton Center for DBT & Counseling, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/886fb565-81e0-47c7-a2aa-273192e3e536/1/320x400.jpeg)
Princeton Center for DBT & Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Princeton Center for DBT and Counseling is a private group practice specializing in comprehensive DBT services for adults and adolescents, as well as other forms of psychotherapy including EMDR and trauma therapies, supportive counseling, family therapy, and parent consultation and support.Our mission is to provide the highest standard of mental health treatment while maintaining an approach that is flexible and customized to meet the unique needs of each individual in the process of achieving meaningful and lasting change. Lona Stranieri, LCSW is the Director and is a DBT-Linehan Board of Certification, Certified Clinician
Princeton Center for DBT and Counseling is a private group practice specializing in comprehensive DBT services for adults and adolescents, as well as other forms of psychotherapy including EMDR and trauma therapies, supportive counseling, family therapy, and parent consultation and support.Our mission is to provide the highest standard of mental health treatment while maintaining an approach that is flexible and customized to meet the unique needs of each individual in the process of achieving meaningful and lasting change. Lona Stranieri, LCSW is the Director and is a DBT-Linehan Board of Certification, Certified Clinician
![Photo of Nancy J Ashworth, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f649fed-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nancy J Ashworth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
My clients say that I am easy to talk to, supportive, encouraging and a good listener.I am interactive, collaborative and provide active feedback. I offer emotional support and challenge you to explore new ways of thinking and behaving to increase your happiness, well-being and self-confidence. It is important that you feel understood, safe and valued as you develop trust in our work together. We will address your difficulties, help you identify your strengths and explore ways to make positive changes. I have thirty years of experience providing mental health, substance abuse and relationship treatment in numerous outpatient facilities including UMDNJ and Rutgers.
My clients say that I am easy to talk to, supportive, encouraging and a good listener.I am interactive, collaborative and provide active feedback. I offer emotional support and challenge you to explore new ways of thinking and behaving to increase your happiness, well-being and self-confidence. It is important that you feel understood, safe and valued as you develop trust in our work together. We will address your difficulties, help you identify your strengths and explore ways to make positive changes. I have thirty years of experience providing mental health, substance abuse and relationship treatment in numerous outpatient facilities including UMDNJ and Rutgers.
![Photo of Adam Germinsky, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d600572-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am interested in helping people explore and confront self-defeating thoughts and behaviors. My goal is to provide a warm, respectful, and relaxed environment to help you uncover, process, and release the roots of emotional pain, and to create pathways for more joy, resiliency, and meaning in life. As healing unfolds and insights deepen, old patterns make way for a new quality of life - for better relationships with others and with your self. The techniques I use in treatment vary, while my commitment is always geared towards the needs and goals that we establish together in treatment.
I am interested in helping people explore and confront self-defeating thoughts and behaviors. My goal is to provide a warm, respectful, and relaxed environment to help you uncover, process, and release the roots of emotional pain, and to create pathways for more joy, resiliency, and meaning in life. As healing unfolds and insights deepen, old patterns make way for a new quality of life - for better relationships with others and with your self. The techniques I use in treatment vary, while my commitment is always geared towards the needs and goals that we establish together in treatment.
![Photo of Linda Gilbert McDonald, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d09f545-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Linda Gilbert McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Belle Mead, NJ 08502
Courage. That is what I hear when I am contacted for consultation. We collaborate in a supportive environment to face challenges like being single (again), grief, strengthening a marriage, #MeToo, anxiety, codependency, impostor syndrome or burnout. Together, we understand and transform barriers that block you from what you want in life. I have extensive training in the treatment of trauma/neglect. I have experience working with people from a variety of ethnicities, religious/spiritual backgrounds and sexual orientations. We will mindfully, focus on the present and briefly visit the past when it is influencing the present.
Courage. That is what I hear when I am contacted for consultation. We collaborate in a supportive environment to face challenges like being single (again), grief, strengthening a marriage, #MeToo, anxiety, codependency, impostor syndrome or burnout. Together, we understand and transform barriers that block you from what you want in life. I have extensive training in the treatment of trauma/neglect. I have experience working with people from a variety of ethnicities, religious/spiritual backgrounds and sexual orientations. We will mindfully, focus on the present and briefly visit the past when it is influencing the present.
See more therapy options for Montgomery
Nearby Substance Use Therapists Searches for Montgomery
- Belle Mead
- Bound Brook
- Branchburg
- Bridgewater
- Hillsborough
- Kendall Park
- Monmouth Junction
- North Brunswick
- Raritan
- Skillman
- Somerset
- Somerville
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.