Substance Use Therapists in Perth Amboy, NJ
![Photo of Jeremias Carabajal, CADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b517381-fc60-4cdb-8193-895d56c1618e/1/320x400.jpeg)
From working with adults that struggle with addiction, substance use and life issues, adolescents seeking to find their identity and attending to family conflict within a therapeutic setting, I believe that we all have the potential to become free and learn how to live a healthy lifestyle.
We often realize that there are areas in our lives in which we know there has to be better, however we feel overwhelmed, stressed, and even uncapable of overcoming those situations that weigh us down and stop us from being the best version of ourselves. Doubt, anxiety, emotional discomfort and negative thoughts begin to surface our mind and become a part of who we are and we accept it. However, we were never created to survive we are created to succeed. It is ok to say "I need help". It is time to take our lives back and live the way it's meant to be lived. We are all learning to become a better person day by day. Today is your day!
From working with adults that struggle with addiction, substance use and life issues, adolescents seeking to find their identity and attending to family conflict within a therapeutic setting, I believe that we all have the potential to become free and learn how to live a healthy lifestyle.
We often realize that there are areas in our lives in which we know there has to be better, however we feel overwhelmed, stressed, and even uncapable of overcoming those situations that weigh us down and stop us from being the best version of ourselves. Doubt, anxiety, emotional discomfort and negative thoughts begin to surface our mind and become a part of who we are and we accept it. However, we were never created to survive we are created to succeed. It is ok to say "I need help". It is time to take our lives back and live the way it's meant to be lived. We are all learning to become a better person day by day. Today is your day!
![Photo of Nia M Taylor Marshall, LCSW, LCADC, SAP, EMDR tr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f85456a-0cf5-4b57-a2f4-8b33d2da10cf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nia M Taylor Marshall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, SAP, EMDR tr
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Perth Amboy, NJ 08861 (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.
![Photo of Felipe A. Lau, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1fdd7ba-7f2b-4aed-b127-7865ee778ba7/1/320x400.png)
Felipe A. Lau
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Perth Amboy, NJ 08861 (Online Only)
I have experience treating several mental health issues including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, PTSD, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, grief and loss, and family and relationship stressors.
Hi, my name is Felipe, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I received my Master of Arts in Counseling from Montclair State University with a concentration in Community Counseling. I am a bilingual therapist and can conduct therapy sessions in English and Spanish. I have 15 years of experience as a mental health professional with the opportunity to work with various ages and backgrounds in different clinical settings. I have experience providing individual therapy and use a person-centered approach. I utilize concepts and tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
I have experience treating several mental health issues including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, PTSD, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, grief and loss, and family and relationship stressors.
Hi, my name is Felipe, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I received my Master of Arts in Counseling from Montclair State University with a concentration in Community Counseling. I am a bilingual therapist and can conduct therapy sessions in English and Spanish. I have 15 years of experience as a mental health professional with the opportunity to work with various ages and backgrounds in different clinical settings. I have experience providing individual therapy and use a person-centered approach. I utilize concepts and tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
![Photo of Rama Jiandani - Rama\'s Counseling Center Inc., LCSW, SAP, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/577ad504-6f20-4052-8f8e-6f6ff8ee6d0c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rama\'s Counseling Center Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAP, MSW
Verified Verified
Perth Amboy, NJ 08861
I specialize in counseling to individuals and families coping with relationship issues, parent-child issues, and extended family issues that are exacerbated by alcohol and substance abuse.
I specialize in counseling to individuals and families coping with relationship issues, parent-child issues, and extended family issues that are exacerbated by alcohol and substance abuse.
![Photo of Grace W Wambu, EdD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9567e541-e100-4b91-9ed3-1112dd9f940c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Grace W Wambu
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perth Amboy, NJ 08861 (Online Only)
Dr. Grace Wambu is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in New Jersey with more than 5 years of clinical work experience. She has extensive experience working with clients struggling with a variety of mental health concerns including depression, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & career difficulties. She specializes in working with adolescents, college students, and adult clients, as well as couples in both individual and group therapy settings. She is passionate about helping clients achieve their wellness goals and live a productive life. She believes in providing a safe environment.
Dr. Grace Wambu is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in New Jersey with more than 5 years of clinical work experience. She has extensive experience working with clients struggling with a variety of mental health concerns including depression, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & career difficulties. She specializes in working with adolescents, college students, and adult clients, as well as couples in both individual and group therapy settings. She is passionate about helping clients achieve their wellness goals and live a productive life. She believes in providing a safe environment.
![Photo of Debbie L Riddle - Total Family Solutions, LCSW, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a91d818-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Total Family Solutions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Perth Amboy, NJ 08861
Total Family Solutions provides strength based individualized therapy that supports the unique needs of each individual. Treatment is guided by a strength based approach. Services offered include individual, family and couples therapy. Total Family Solutions has three fantastic locations in Woodbridge, Voorhees, and Vineland, New Jersey.
Total Family Solutions provides strength based individualized therapy that supports the unique needs of each individual. Treatment is guided by a strength based approach. Services offered include individual, family and couples therapy. Total Family Solutions has three fantastic locations in Woodbridge, Voorhees, and Vineland, New Jersey.
![Photo of Lisa Tortorello Gilligan, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/507d408b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Tortorello Gilligan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Perth Amboy, NJ 08861
Life has its bright moments, but it can also have its dark side. When you find yourself spending more time in the dark times than the bright times, it's time to come and see a therapist. I can help you come back into the brightness of life and teach you how to spend most of your time there.
Life has its bright moments, but it can also have its dark side. When you find yourself spending more time in the dark times than the bright times, it's time to come and see a therapist. I can help you come back into the brightness of life and teach you how to spend most of your time there.
![Photo of Ellis Eisner, MA, ATR-BC, LCAT, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43ec9515-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thank you for viewing my profile. Art Therapy helps individuals to improve their mood and find a more fulfilling life. Through both art and talk therapies we address such issues as: social anxiety, difficulty in relationships, OCD, bullying, eating disorders, family relationships, boundary setting, gender/sexuality identification, and depression. My work with children has encompassed: behavioral problems in school and social situations, bullying and autism spectrum disorder. Find out about free art therapy sessions for children targeted by bullies. Contact me using the code words: Art Against Bullying.
Thank you for viewing my profile. Art Therapy helps individuals to improve their mood and find a more fulfilling life. Through both art and talk therapies we address such issues as: social anxiety, difficulty in relationships, OCD, bullying, eating disorders, family relationships, boundary setting, gender/sexuality identification, and depression. My work with children has encompassed: behavioral problems in school and social situations, bullying and autism spectrum disorder. Find out about free art therapy sessions for children targeted by bullies. Contact me using the code words: Art Against Bullying.
![Photo of James M Destefano - HeartSoulMindBody, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98c4d7c2-9ab9-407f-a493-f286efac1b3d/6/320x400.jpeg)
I have an M.S.W.from Rutgers Graduate school of Social Work,and I have an L.C.S.W. in the state of NJ. I ve been in practice for TWENTY(20)yrs. I am also a Christian counselor for those who would like to add a Biblical base to their sessions.I work with Adults in individual,marital and family counseling and with middle school and High School students as well as children age 10 and above. I work with the many addictions today and use a Christian based Pre-Marital Program.I help guide you in finding balance and inner peace through communication and trust!
I have an M.S.W.from Rutgers Graduate school of Social Work,and I have an L.C.S.W. in the state of NJ. I ve been in practice for TWENTY(20)yrs. I am also a Christian counselor for those who would like to add a Biblical base to their sessions.I work with Adults in individual,marital and family counseling and with middle school and High School students as well as children age 10 and above. I work with the many addictions today and use a Christian based Pre-Marital Program.I help guide you in finding balance and inner peace through communication and trust!
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Arlene Venet, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dcd0b281-dc82-43fb-829e-72265ab76983/2/320x400.png)
Arlene Venet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Old Bridge, NJ 08857 (Online Only)
My job as a therapist is to empower my clients to be the best versions of themselves. I accomplish this by embracing each of my clients with kindness and lack of judgement. I have over 30 years of experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings treating clients with a variety of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, couples and marriage counseling, substance use disorders, and trauma to name a few. Please see below regarding a comprehensive list of specialties that I specialize in. I am experienced in utilizing CBT, Inner Child, Mindfulness, along with other approaches.
My job as a therapist is to empower my clients to be the best versions of themselves. I accomplish this by embracing each of my clients with kindness and lack of judgement. I have over 30 years of experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings treating clients with a variety of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, couples and marriage counseling, substance use disorders, and trauma to name a few. Please see below regarding a comprehensive list of specialties that I specialize in. I am experienced in utilizing CBT, Inner Child, Mindfulness, along with other approaches.
![Photo of Wilfred Asamoah, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a929285-8c97-45f7-8354-e4aba0bc1b8a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I incorporate the cultivation of self-care practices into my work with clients to ensure that they have the tools to be successful in their recovery from mental health and substance use disorders.
Accepting new clients - Are you feeling depressed and anxious? Are you struggling with addiction? If so don't hesitate to call. I am both a licensed clinical social worker and a licensed clinical drug and alcohol counselor in the state of NJ. My experience is primarily focused on treating individuals and families struggling with mental health issues (depression, anxiety, etc.) and or addiction. I provide clients a safe and intimate atmosphere for their emotional well-being and recovery from addiction. From working with adults that struggle with addiction, substance use and life issues, adolescents seeking to find their identity
I incorporate the cultivation of self-care practices into my work with clients to ensure that they have the tools to be successful in their recovery from mental health and substance use disorders.
Accepting new clients - Are you feeling depressed and anxious? Are you struggling with addiction? If so don't hesitate to call. I am both a licensed clinical social worker and a licensed clinical drug and alcohol counselor in the state of NJ. My experience is primarily focused on treating individuals and families struggling with mental health issues (depression, anxiety, etc.) and or addiction. I provide clients a safe and intimate atmosphere for their emotional well-being and recovery from addiction. From working with adults that struggle with addiction, substance use and life issues, adolescents seeking to find their identity
![Photo of Stephanie Lynn Harris-Kuiper, LPC, LCADC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7a86f65-7aea-4be3-85cc-eefdcbf32c9f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Lynn Harris-Kuiper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
Milltown, NJ 08850
My expertise includes issues related to anxiety, trauma, addiction, depression, substance use, anger management, grief and loss.
I have always believed my purpose in life has been to be an advocate and voice for others who would otherwise remain silent and unheard. Counseling has allowed me to fulfill that purpose for my clients and throughout my professional career, I have provided compassionate counseling services in varied social service settings. I am an experienced, dedicated and insightful mental healthcare professional with over 25 years experience in both individual, family and group counseling. My experiences are broad and cover academic and career counseling which evolved into job coaching for young to older adults from many walks of life.
My expertise includes issues related to anxiety, trauma, addiction, depression, substance use, anger management, grief and loss.
I have always believed my purpose in life has been to be an advocate and voice for others who would otherwise remain silent and unheard. Counseling has allowed me to fulfill that purpose for my clients and throughout my professional career, I have provided compassionate counseling services in varied social service settings. I am an experienced, dedicated and insightful mental healthcare professional with over 25 years experience in both individual, family and group counseling. My experiences are broad and cover academic and career counseling which evolved into job coaching for young to older adults from many walks of life.
![Photo of Jessica Cruz, LSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e7adbc7-5309-49a2-88af-a89e6b9881f6/1/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of expertise include: depression and anxiety, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, and suicidality.
Welcome. I am accepting new clients. My path to becoming a therapist began with a deep-rooted desire to create a safe space for healing and growth. I developed a passion for empowering individuals through therapy. As a Latinx therapist, I bring a culturally sensitive approach to my practice, honoring the unique backgrounds and experiences of each client. I am fluent in both English and Spanish, ensuring that language is never a barrier to receiving the support you deserve.
My areas of expertise include: depression and anxiety, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, and suicidality.
Welcome. I am accepting new clients. My path to becoming a therapist began with a deep-rooted desire to create a safe space for healing and growth. I developed a passion for empowering individuals through therapy. As a Latinx therapist, I bring a culturally sensitive approach to my practice, honoring the unique backgrounds and experiences of each client. I am fluent in both English and Spanish, ensuring that language is never a barrier to receiving the support you deserve.
![Photo of Deepanjali Tiwari, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22a086f4-93d9-416e-a7a3-bd18591b19e1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Deepanjali Tiwari
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
New Brunswick, NJ 08901 (Online Only)
My specialties include working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, substance use concerns, and those going through various life transitions.
Taking the first step towards seeking therapy is incredibly brave, and I'm honored to be part of your journey. As a therapist, my approach is grounded in creating a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My ultimate goal is to collaborate with you in navigating life's challenges and empowering you to make positive changes.
My specialties include working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, substance use concerns, and those going through various life transitions.
Taking the first step towards seeking therapy is incredibly brave, and I'm honored to be part of your journey. As a therapist, my approach is grounded in creating a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My ultimate goal is to collaborate with you in navigating life's challenges and empowering you to make positive changes.
![Photo of Tracity Gordon James, LSW, LMSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08d0e5b4-978f-401e-970f-10325eec2a29/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tracity Gordon James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, LMSW, CADC
Verified Verified
East Brunswick, NJ 08816 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with interpersonal problems and need insight into your thoughts, behaviors, and feelings while actively working towards improving your life? Or are you struggling with substance use, trauma, PTSD, or dual diagnosis? Look no further. I have a diverse background working with individuals, families, groups, and also in the community, in settings such as schools, inpatient and outpatient substance abuse treatment facilities, and in homes, to create the space for individuals to grow.
Are you struggling with interpersonal problems and need insight into your thoughts, behaviors, and feelings while actively working towards improving your life? Or are you struggling with substance use, trauma, PTSD, or dual diagnosis? Look no further. I have a diverse background working with individuals, families, groups, and also in the community, in settings such as schools, inpatient and outpatient substance abuse treatment facilities, and in homes, to create the space for individuals to grow.
![Photo of Sonya Elefante, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f5d38dc-f7e6-4d25-a4bd-8e1ce6916619/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sonya Elefante
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904 (Online Only)
I have experience with depression, anxiety, trauma, disordered eating, and substance use, and have been in practice for 4 years.
Hi, I’m Sonya and I'm happy you’re here. Finding a therapist can be a daunting task, but you’ve taken the first – and most difficult – step! Whatever challenges you may be facing in life, I offer a compassionate environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. I will work with you to address depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, disordered eating behaviors, substance use, adjustment issues, and life transitions. I believe in the power of human resilience and in your potential for transformation. Together, we'll work to discover insights, develop coping strategies, and draw from your strength.
I have experience with depression, anxiety, trauma, disordered eating, and substance use, and have been in practice for 4 years.
Hi, I’m Sonya and I'm happy you’re here. Finding a therapist can be a daunting task, but you’ve taken the first – and most difficult – step! Whatever challenges you may be facing in life, I offer a compassionate environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. I will work with you to address depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, disordered eating behaviors, substance use, adjustment issues, and life transitions. I believe in the power of human resilience and in your potential for transformation. Together, we'll work to discover insights, develop coping strategies, and draw from your strength.
![Photo of Laura Shuzman, LPC, LCADC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d59cc17-d9cf-4c07-9b1f-3c142eb61d96/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Shuzman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
East Brunswick, NJ 08816 (Online Only)
Engaging in therapy is one of the many ways we can care for ourselves. I’ve been a counselor for over 15 years working with clients who seek support around a variety of issues impacting emotional well-being and daily living. I offer telehealth counseling to adult clients who seek to address issues related to anxiety, depression, adjustment, substance use, relationships, and/or overall wellness.
Engaging in therapy is one of the many ways we can care for ourselves. I’ve been a counselor for over 15 years working with clients who seek support around a variety of issues impacting emotional well-being and daily living. I offer telehealth counseling to adult clients who seek to address issues related to anxiety, depression, adjustment, substance use, relationships, and/or overall wellness.
![Photo of Tricia Colbert, LPC, LCADC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01fbe707-47d5-421d-89fd-602133b9d4e3/2/320x400.png)
Tricia Colbert
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 20 years in the clinical setting. My mission is to help individuals and their families become healthier in order to have a better quality of life. I use a holistic approach, blending elements from different modalities in order to tailor treatment to clients' individual needs. I treat a wide range of mental health and addiction issues, though my expertise is in mood and anxiety disorders as well as substance use disorders.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 20 years in the clinical setting. My mission is to help individuals and their families become healthier in order to have a better quality of life. I use a holistic approach, blending elements from different modalities in order to tailor treatment to clients' individual needs. I treat a wide range of mental health and addiction issues, though my expertise is in mood and anxiety disorders as well as substance use disorders.
![Photo of Stephanie Riordan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/594f6276-12cc-4e5f-9b67-5e65c5c3c869/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Riordan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
New Brunswick, NJ 08901 (Online Only)
I like to take a casual, comfortable, and collaborative approach to therapy. I enjoy taking time to get to know who you are, your approach to life, and what really matters to you. I'm known for incorporating humor when appropriate - therapy can be difficult, but who says it has to be boring? I have significant experience working with adults presenting with various mental health symptoms, substance use disorders, relationship conflict, trauma, and stressors. I hold extensive experience working with individuals (and loved ones) struggling and recovering from substance use disorders.
I like to take a casual, comfortable, and collaborative approach to therapy. I enjoy taking time to get to know who you are, your approach to life, and what really matters to you. I'm known for incorporating humor when appropriate - therapy can be difficult, but who says it has to be boring? I have significant experience working with adults presenting with various mental health symptoms, substance use disorders, relationship conflict, trauma, and stressors. I hold extensive experience working with individuals (and loved ones) struggling and recovering from substance use disorders.
![Photo of Stephanie Englander, MS, LPC, LCADC, ACS, SAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4cf00e4-fbe5-4e8b-881c-f8a360b8b839/1/320x400.png)
Stephanie Englander
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCADC, ACS, SAC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Holmdel, NJ 07733
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in NJ and PA and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor, specializing in substance use and mental health counseling for adolescents and adults.
If you are having difficulty overcoming struggles in your life, you are not alone. I can help navigate you through these difficult times in a safe, comfortable, and confidential space. I believe therapy is an avenue to address the challenges in life that sometimes seem unmanageable. Whether a change in your life is causing you discomfort, or you are struggling with substance use, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or relationship issues, I am here to support you and help you cope with life's struggles.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in NJ and PA and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor, specializing in substance use and mental health counseling for adolescents and adults.
If you are having difficulty overcoming struggles in your life, you are not alone. I can help navigate you through these difficult times in a safe, comfortable, and confidential space. I believe therapy is an avenue to address the challenges in life that sometimes seem unmanageable. Whether a change in your life is causing you discomfort, or you are struggling with substance use, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or relationship issues, I am here to support you and help you cope with life's struggles.
See more therapy options for Perth Amboy
Nearby Substance Use Therapists Searches for Perth Amboy
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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.