Substance Use Therapists in Orange, NJ

Photo of Arthur Higgins, LPC, LCADC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Arthur Higgins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
Orange, NJ 07050
Cognitive-behavioral and Solution-focused interventions are some of modalities that work very well with issues such as anxiety, depression, and substance use among others.
Life is full of change. Some changes we initiate, some occur suddenly and force us to respond to them. Whatever the circumstance, we often need assistance to navigate the change process. It is my goal to provide that assistance in a relationship built on trust and genuineness. Whether you are seeking to make a personal change or respond in a healthy manner to an unforeseen change, I am here to support you. My style is relational. I will support, encourage and challenge you to accomplish the goals you have set for yourself. I believe everyone has a purpose and mission. I want to support you getting there.
Cognitive-behavioral and Solution-focused interventions are some of modalities that work very well with issues such as anxiety, depression, and substance use among others.
Life is full of change. Some changes we initiate, some occur suddenly and force us to respond to them. Whatever the circumstance, we often need assistance to navigate the change process. It is my goal to provide that assistance in a relationship built on trust and genuineness. Whether you are seeking to make a personal change or respond in a healthy manner to an unforeseen change, I am here to support you. My style is relational. I will support, encourage and challenge you to accomplish the goals you have set for yourself. I believe everyone has a purpose and mission. I want to support you getting there.
(862) 420-9399 View (862) 420-9399
Photo of Jaivonne W. Seary, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaivonne W. Seary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange, NJ 07050  (Online Only)
For queer, trans, and people of color, therapy has historically been stigmatized, mistrusting, or inaccessible. As a Latinx, Lesbian/Queer Woman and Psychotherapist, I ensure an affordable, safe space, and lived experiences that can help ease some of those concerns and ensure my clients receive affirmative care. I provide virtual trauma-informed, clinical psychotherapy to adult QTPOC individuals, couples, and groups. Using an eclectic therapeutic approach, I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship issues, and trauma-related stress through my NJ-based practice Journey to Better.
For queer, trans, and people of color, therapy has historically been stigmatized, mistrusting, or inaccessible. As a Latinx, Lesbian/Queer Woman and Psychotherapist, I ensure an affordable, safe space, and lived experiences that can help ease some of those concerns and ensure my clients receive affirmative care. I provide virtual trauma-informed, clinical psychotherapy to adult QTPOC individuals, couples, and groups. Using an eclectic therapeutic approach, I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship issues, and trauma-related stress through my NJ-based practice Journey to Better.
(973) 352-0956 View (973) 352-0956
Photo of Tyisha Gaskin - Footprints to Feel Better, Pre-Licensed Professional
Footprints to Feel Better
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Orange, NJ 07051
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295
Photo of Jennifer Constanos - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orange, NJ 07050
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(973) 791-4381 View (973) 791-4381

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Francheska Capellan - Francheska Capellan: Adults, Couples, and Teens, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Francheska Capellan: Adults, Couples, and Teens
Counselor, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07103
I work to support clients who are navigating a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, substance use, and life transitions. I utilize an integrative approach to clients, drawing on a variety of skills such as CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing. I believe in client-focused therapy, where the therapist and client work collaboratively to establish goals and guide treatment. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
I work to support clients who are navigating a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, substance use, and life transitions. I utilize an integrative approach to clients, drawing on a variety of skills such as CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing. I believe in client-focused therapy, where the therapist and client work collaboratively to establish goals and guide treatment. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
(862) 707-2367 View (862) 707-2367
Photo of Nick Fonarev, LSW, LMSW
Nick Fonarev
Licensed Social Worker, LSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
I am an IFS, KAP, and harm reduction therapist seeing clients presenting with a range of mental health concerns including CPTSD, depression, anxiety, substance use, and grief. I help clients integrate difficult experiences and connect with their inner healing resources. In addition to Internal Family Systems, I am certified in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KTC), Psychedelic Therapy and Integration (Fluence), MDMA-Assisted Therapy (MAPS/Lykos), and Integrative Harm Reduction Psychotherapy, and over the past eight years have been involved with the Zendo Project, helping people transform from challenging psychedelic experiences.
I am an IFS, KAP, and harm reduction therapist seeing clients presenting with a range of mental health concerns including CPTSD, depression, anxiety, substance use, and grief. I help clients integrate difficult experiences and connect with their inner healing resources. In addition to Internal Family Systems, I am certified in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KTC), Psychedelic Therapy and Integration (Fluence), MDMA-Assisted Therapy (MAPS/Lykos), and Integrative Harm Reduction Psychotherapy, and over the past eight years have been involved with the Zendo Project, helping people transform from challenging psychedelic experiences.
(862) 263-7286 View (862) 263-7286
Photo of Hudson Robinson, MPsy, LCADC, CCS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Hudson Robinson
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MPsy, LCADC, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Orange, NJ 07052
Most of my clients have a substance use disorder that is co-occurring with other conditions. These disorders manifest as severe behavioral issues that lead to biopsychosocial impairments. Some clients had problems with the criminal justice system, state and local agencies, schools, employers, family, and the community due to undesirable behavior. They need help turning their lives around. As Person-centered, solution-focused Licensed Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor, I establish therapeutic relationships anchored in cultural diversity to provide individualized treatment to help my clients make the change they desire.
Most of my clients have a substance use disorder that is co-occurring with other conditions. These disorders manifest as severe behavioral issues that lead to biopsychosocial impairments. Some clients had problems with the criminal justice system, state and local agencies, schools, employers, family, and the community due to undesirable behavior. They need help turning their lives around. As Person-centered, solution-focused Licensed Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor, I establish therapeutic relationships anchored in cultural diversity to provide individualized treatment to help my clients make the change they desire.
(551) 205-5917 View (551) 205-5917
Photo of Melissa Tihinen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Tihinen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
My specialties include working with clients on various types of concerns including depression, anxiety, sexual assault/abuse, relationship difficulties, trauma, LGBTQ+ concerns, and substance use.
Therapy can be helpful for people in a variety of circumstances. Clients have reached out to me because they are going through a significant transition in their lives, because they are experiencing relationship challenges, or because they are having difficulty reaching their goals. Many clients also reach out because they have noticed patterns in how they relate to others that they feel are concerning.
My specialties include working with clients on various types of concerns including depression, anxiety, sexual assault/abuse, relationship difficulties, trauma, LGBTQ+ concerns, and substance use.
Therapy can be helpful for people in a variety of circumstances. Clients have reached out to me because they are going through a significant transition in their lives, because they are experiencing relationship challenges, or because they are having difficulty reaching their goals. Many clients also reach out because they have noticed patterns in how they relate to others that they feel are concerning.
(646) 760-8343 View (646) 760-8343
Photo of Silvester Oluokun, MEd, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Silvester Oluokun
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Orange, NJ 07079  (Online Only)
I specialize in substance use, Depression and Anxiety, Attachment, Trauma (including PTSD), Grief and Loss, relationship instability and family dynamics, career guidance and human sexuality (including LGBTQ+ affirming).
Finding the right therapist can be a challenging task. I've discovered that many people are looking to work on aspects of themselves but struggle with knowing where to start and how to sustain meaningful change. Sometimes it is a matter of feeling heard and other times we seek direct guidance and feedback. We often need to develop the language to better understand what is happening and to place things in a useful context. No matter what you are looking for, I believe that creating an environment of trust, compassion, empathy and understanding is critical to the process.
I specialize in substance use, Depression and Anxiety, Attachment, Trauma (including PTSD), Grief and Loss, relationship instability and family dynamics, career guidance and human sexuality (including LGBTQ+ affirming).
Finding the right therapist can be a challenging task. I've discovered that many people are looking to work on aspects of themselves but struggle with knowing where to start and how to sustain meaningful change. Sometimes it is a matter of feeling heard and other times we seek direct guidance and feedback. We often need to develop the language to better understand what is happening and to place things in a useful context. No matter what you are looking for, I believe that creating an environment of trust, compassion, empathy and understanding is critical to the process.
(862) 217-5314 View (862) 217-5314
Photo of Lynne Holley, LCSW, LCADC, CAMS-II, CDVS-I, CSOTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynne Holley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, CAMS-II, CDVS-I, CSOTS
Verified Verified
South Orange, NJ 07079  (Online Only)
Clinical experience includes but is not limited to; anger management, depression, adjustment, sexual trauma, mood disorders, stress, substance use, anxiety, relationship problems, domestic violence, stress, parenting issues, family conflict, coping skills, oppositional defiance, school issues, gambling, and peer relationships.
I utilize my extensive and varied knowledge and experience to provide support and education with an individualized strength-based therapeutic approach to confronting the presenting problems in order to empower healthy people which will nurture healthy families and build healthy communities. I would like to welcome you to a non-judgmental zone where you can relax and release what you need to in order to find healing and comfort. Please do not use the number posted, please call me directly at 9733930312 (leave message) or email me for a quick response. Thank you and I look forward to helping you through to reach growth and healing.
Clinical experience includes but is not limited to; anger management, depression, adjustment, sexual trauma, mood disorders, stress, substance use, anxiety, relationship problems, domestic violence, stress, parenting issues, family conflict, coping skills, oppositional defiance, school issues, gambling, and peer relationships.
I utilize my extensive and varied knowledge and experience to provide support and education with an individualized strength-based therapeutic approach to confronting the presenting problems in order to empower healthy people which will nurture healthy families and build healthy communities. I would like to welcome you to a non-judgmental zone where you can relax and release what you need to in order to find healing and comfort. Please do not use the number posted, please call me directly at 9733930312 (leave message) or email me for a quick response. Thank you and I look forward to helping you through to reach growth and healing.
(908) 676-7144 View (908) 676-7144
Photo of Linda Suzanne Elma - Life Skills Management Services, LLC, MBA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Life Skills Management Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07103
We are licensed in Oregon, Maine, Minnesota, Florida, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey and Colorado. We currently offer telehealth and virtual therapeutic services. We work with individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, mood disorders, family relations issues, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders. We combine different therapeutic approaches based on client's presenting concerns, goals, and motivation, such as, cognitive-behavioral, brief therapy, mindfulness, client-centered, solution-focused therapy.
We are licensed in Oregon, Maine, Minnesota, Florida, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey and Colorado. We currently offer telehealth and virtual therapeutic services. We work with individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, mood disorders, family relations issues, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders. We combine different therapeutic approaches based on client's presenting concerns, goals, and motivation, such as, cognitive-behavioral, brief therapy, mindfulness, client-centered, solution-focused therapy.
(833) 541-1453 View (833) 541-1453
Photo of Cameron O'Connor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cameron O'Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
Recent experience includes work with both adolescents and adults, treating issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, sexuality, gender, family conflicts, and more.
I hold a master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy and Practice in clinical social work. I have practiced as a member of the psychiatry team at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania as a psychotherapist; I have also practiced at drug and alcohol treatment centers, adolescent treatment centers, and acute residential settings. I have found increased success treating teens, adults, and families. I have also founded Harborlight Counseling, where I have built a team of clinicians with expertise in working with these populations to create accessible services for all clients who need help.
Recent experience includes work with both adolescents and adults, treating issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, sexuality, gender, family conflicts, and more.
I hold a master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy and Practice in clinical social work. I have practiced as a member of the psychiatry team at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania as a psychotherapist; I have also practiced at drug and alcohol treatment centers, adolescent treatment centers, and acute residential settings. I have found increased success treating teens, adults, and families. I have also founded Harborlight Counseling, where I have built a team of clinicians with expertise in working with these populations to create accessible services for all clients who need help.
(551) 365-3700 View (551) 365-3700
Photo of Nia M Taylor Marshall, LCSW, LCADC, SAP, EMDR tr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nia M Taylor Marshall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, SAP, EMDR tr
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
East Orange, NJ 07018  (Online Only)
I am deeply dedicated to helping individuals overcome emotional injuries and improve their overall well being. My expertise in utilizing evidence-based approaches such as EMDR, CBT, MI provides effective and compassionate support. I also have valuable experience in working with individuals facing challenges related to eating and substance use disorders. My passion for this work drives me to create a safe and nurturing environment where people can heal. Through customized treatment plans and a holistic approach, my goal as a therapist is to empower individuals toward lasting change.
I am deeply dedicated to helping individuals overcome emotional injuries and improve their overall well being. My expertise in utilizing evidence-based approaches such as EMDR, CBT, MI provides effective and compassionate support. I also have valuable experience in working with individuals facing challenges related to eating and substance use disorders. My passion for this work drives me to create a safe and nurturing environment where people can heal. Through customized treatment plans and a holistic approach, my goal as a therapist is to empower individuals toward lasting change.
(973) 261-8569 View (973) 261-8569
Photo of Keri Pinelli, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keri Pinelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
I have experience treating clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use disorders, as well as everyday life stressors that may require an unbiased sounding board.
I firmly believe in the inherent potential of each person to become their optimal self. Life's journey often presents us with unforeseen challenges and overwhelming transitions that can impede our progress. These circumstances may hinder our ability to live fully. My primary objective is to establish a nurturing environment where individuals can cultivate positive and sustainable changes through the foundation of a therapeutic alliance. By fostering this connection, I aspire to empower individuals to navigate life's complexities and unlock their fullest potential.
I have experience treating clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use disorders, as well as everyday life stressors that may require an unbiased sounding board.
I firmly believe in the inherent potential of each person to become their optimal self. Life's journey often presents us with unforeseen challenges and overwhelming transitions that can impede our progress. These circumstances may hinder our ability to live fully. My primary objective is to establish a nurturing environment where individuals can cultivate positive and sustainable changes through the foundation of a therapeutic alliance. By fostering this connection, I aspire to empower individuals to navigate life's complexities and unlock their fullest potential.
(646) 291-6129 View (646) 291-6129
Photo of Sharyn Kline-Felix - Sharyn Kline-Felix: Couples, Postpartum, Grief, MSW, LSW
Sharyn Kline-Felix: Couples, Postpartum, Grief
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07103
I specialize in helping women and couples navigate grief, anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, relationship challenges, and big transitions like becoming parents or ending a relationship. I am especially passionate about supporting women through infertility, pregnancy, or postpartum challenges and have a Certificate in Perinatal Mental Health. With my couples, I use the Gottman Method to strengthen connection & friendship and manage conflict. I work Tues to Sat with evening and weekend appointments. I'm accepting new clients and you can book with me now at www.resolutioncc.com/team
I specialize in helping women and couples navigate grief, anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, relationship challenges, and big transitions like becoming parents or ending a relationship. I am especially passionate about supporting women through infertility, pregnancy, or postpartum challenges and have a Certificate in Perinatal Mental Health. With my couples, I use the Gottman Method to strengthen connection & friendship and manage conflict. I work Tues to Sat with evening and weekend appointments. I'm accepting new clients and you can book with me now at www.resolutioncc.com/team
(973) 791-5665 View (973) 791-5665
Photo of LaShelle Corley, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LaShelle Corley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Orange, NJ 07017  (Online Only)
LaShelle has over fifteen years of experience working in a variety of settings with children, adolescents, and adults impacted by different mental health and substance use disorders.
Do you need help to restore your peace of mind? Well, Lashelle wants to support you in your journey of doing just that, reclaiming your peace of mind. LaShelle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) in the State of New Jersey.
LaShelle has over fifteen years of experience working in a variety of settings with children, adolescents, and adults impacted by different mental health and substance use disorders.
Do you need help to restore your peace of mind? Well, Lashelle wants to support you in your journey of doing just that, reclaiming your peace of mind. LaShelle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) in the State of New Jersey.
(862) 375-4673 View (862) 375-4673
Photo of Sevil H Modeste - Roots at Crossroads Counseling LLC, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roots at Crossroads Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052  (Online Only)
She received trainings in trauma, exposure and ritual prevention for OCD, and in substance use disorders amongst others.
Have you been sad, experiencing crying spells, or difficulties managing your emotions? Have your worries been ongoing or distressing? Is setting boundaries or limits a challenge? Getting help is not easy and you've made the first step! Individual and group are available to support your personal growth and healing.
She received trainings in trauma, exposure and ritual prevention for OCD, and in substance use disorders amongst others.
Have you been sad, experiencing crying spells, or difficulties managing your emotions? Have your worries been ongoing or distressing? Is setting boundaries or limits a challenge? Getting help is not easy and you've made the first step! Individual and group are available to support your personal growth and healing.
(973) 310-5292 View (973) 310-5292
Photo of Piyanka Sen - Piyanka Sen: Adults & Couples, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Piyanka Sen: Adults & Couples
Counselor, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I am passionate about using an empathetic, collaborative approach to help clients heal, evolve, and tap into their full potential. I have counseling experience working in various levels of mental care. From working as a group facilitator, couples therapist, and clinician, I provide a safe space to guide and support emerging adults, adults, and elders. I specialize in intergenerational/complex trauma, eating disorders, multicultural issues, family conflicts, substance use disorders, grief, adjustment difficulties, and premarital/marital issues. See if I am accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
I am passionate about using an empathetic, collaborative approach to help clients heal, evolve, and tap into their full potential. I have counseling experience working in various levels of mental care. From working as a group facilitator, couples therapist, and clinician, I provide a safe space to guide and support emerging adults, adults, and elders. I specialize in intergenerational/complex trauma, eating disorders, multicultural issues, family conflicts, substance use disorders, grief, adjustment difficulties, and premarital/marital issues. See if I am accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
(862) 666-3350 View (862) 666-3350
Photo of Maria Valente - Maria Valente: Adults, Couples, LPC, Counselor
Maria Valente: Adults, Couples
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07103
I support adults & couples navigating depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, trauma, PTSD, addiction & recovery, and codependency. I combine my belief in your unique strengths to heal with methods like Mindfulness, DBT-based emotion regulation, Person-Centered Therapy, Solution- Focused Therapy & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I also draw on my addiction treatment background to support clients & family members on recovery journeys. With my couples, I draw on the Gottman Method which promotes healthy communication & increases connections. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
I support adults & couples navigating depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, trauma, PTSD, addiction & recovery, and codependency. I combine my belief in your unique strengths to heal with methods like Mindfulness, DBT-based emotion regulation, Person-Centered Therapy, Solution- Focused Therapy & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I also draw on my addiction treatment background to support clients & family members on recovery journeys. With my couples, I draw on the Gottman Method which promotes healthy communication & increases connections. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
(862) 305-8618 View (862) 305-8618
Photo of Sheila Harrington, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheila Harrington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Orange, NJ 07052
I am a licensed clinical social worker who is committed to help you feel better, to be more productive and to have more satisfying relationships. I believe in partnering with my patients to create a life worth living. You can accomplish this by incorporating mindfulness exercises, learning new coping skills, exercise and strengthening relationships. Together we will explore the connections among these areas in order to help you become the best you possible.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who is committed to help you feel better, to be more productive and to have more satisfying relationships. I believe in partnering with my patients to create a life worth living. You can accomplish this by incorporating mindfulness exercises, learning new coping skills, exercise and strengthening relationships. Together we will explore the connections among these areas in order to help you become the best you possible.
(973) 870-0601 View (973) 870-0601

See more therapy options for Orange

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.