Substance Use Therapists in Raritan, NJ
![Photo of Lisa A Curcio, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60beae01-b84d-4d77-8219-cb94b1d7f22f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa A Curcio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raritan, NJ 08869 (Online Only)
Are you seeking to improve your quality of life & overall well-being? My approach to therapy is to help you gain a better sense of self, develop emotional stability & achieve personal growth. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 year's experience in the mental health field. I graduated from Columbia University with a MSW & have a BS in Applied Sociology/Social Work from Seattle University. I possess extensive experience working with individuals & couples living with PTSD, Trauma related issues, Grief, Adjustment Issues/Disorders, Depression, Substance Use, Anxiety, Work-Related Issues, & Marital/Relational issues.
Are you seeking to improve your quality of life & overall well-being? My approach to therapy is to help you gain a better sense of self, develop emotional stability & achieve personal growth. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 year's experience in the mental health field. I graduated from Columbia University with a MSW & have a BS in Applied Sociology/Social Work from Seattle University. I possess extensive experience working with individuals & couples living with PTSD, Trauma related issues, Grief, Adjustment Issues/Disorders, Depression, Substance Use, Anxiety, Work-Related Issues, & Marital/Relational issues.
![Photo of Harry Martin Luther - Alpha & Omega Counseling Ministries, LCADC, MS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c91f4d5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alpha & Omega Counseling Ministries
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCADC, MS
Verified Verified
Raritan, NJ 08869
Rev Harry is the founder of Alpha & Omega. Rev Harry holds a State License as a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor(LCADC). Harry holds a four-year degree from Somerset Christian College in Psychology/Christian Counseling, and his Masters at Mid American Christian University (MACU). He is also a member of the American Association of Christian Counselors. Harry serves in leadership roles at Zarephath Christian Church and assisted in the development and launch of Victory in Christ Ministry. Rev Harry volunteers in the capacity of a Pastoral Christian Counselor at Zarephath's Health Center, serving those struggling with addictions.
Rev Harry is the founder of Alpha & Omega. Rev Harry holds a State License as a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor(LCADC). Harry holds a four-year degree from Somerset Christian College in Psychology/Christian Counseling, and his Masters at Mid American Christian University (MACU). He is also a member of the American Association of Christian Counselors. Harry serves in leadership roles at Zarephath Christian Church and assisted in the development and launch of Victory in Christ Ministry. Rev Harry volunteers in the capacity of a Pastoral Christian Counselor at Zarephath's Health Center, serving those struggling with addictions.
![Photo of MaryJane Coletta, MSW, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c87b143-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a warm and engaging therapist and strongly believe that each of us has the potential to live life to the fullest! Together, we will navagate the obstacles in your path to inspire you to achieve a deeper sense of purpose, peace, and joy in your life. Whether you are seeking extra support and guidance through a challenging time, looking to resolve painful issues, or wish to live a more self-empowered life, We will work collaboratively to encourage the devlelopment of clearer awareness, and mastery over your thoughts and feelings.
I am a warm and engaging therapist and strongly believe that each of us has the potential to live life to the fullest! Together, we will navagate the obstacles in your path to inspire you to achieve a deeper sense of purpose, peace, and joy in your life. Whether you are seeking extra support and guidance through a challenging time, looking to resolve painful issues, or wish to live a more self-empowered life, We will work collaboratively to encourage the devlelopment of clearer awareness, and mastery over your thoughts and feelings.
![Photo of Lori J Sonenblum, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5b9d968-d903-4f2a-9b3f-4aeeacc34790/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lori J Sonenblum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raritan, NJ 08869 (Online Only)
My approach is client centered, strengths based and trauma informed. I specialize in trauma treatment. The impact of trauma and mental illness on men is rarely a social conversation. Needless to say men are likely to go for decades without seeking help and suffer in silence. This is where I bring years of experience working with men struggling with trauma. I also have worked with women's issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, and specialized in addictions for over a decade. Perhaps you are experiencing depression amidst caring for a loved one who is struggling with a addiction, mental illness or co-occurring issues.
My approach is client centered, strengths based and trauma informed. I specialize in trauma treatment. The impact of trauma and mental illness on men is rarely a social conversation. Needless to say men are likely to go for decades without seeking help and suffer in silence. This is where I bring years of experience working with men struggling with trauma. I also have worked with women's issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, and specialized in addictions for over a decade. Perhaps you are experiencing depression amidst caring for a loved one who is struggling with a addiction, mental illness or co-occurring issues.
![Photo of Tracy Fox Galluppi, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bfaaf68-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/7/320x400.jpeg)
We all want to be healthy, happy, understood. But life often presents unexpected challenges that create stress, resurface old hurts or stir-up painful memories. At these times, a supportive ear and thoughtful guidance can facilitate moving forward and promote healing.
Regardless of what leads you to seek therapy; wanting to gain greater awareness or experience more joy, find a professional with whom you can form a meaningful relationship.
I believe that we all strive towards health, and carry with us a set of strengths. Successful therapy draws upon those strengths and endeavors to build even more.
We all want to be healthy, happy, understood. But life often presents unexpected challenges that create stress, resurface old hurts or stir-up painful memories. At these times, a supportive ear and thoughtful guidance can facilitate moving forward and promote healing.
Regardless of what leads you to seek therapy; wanting to gain greater awareness or experience more joy, find a professional with whom you can form a meaningful relationship.
I believe that we all strive towards health, and carry with us a set of strengths. Successful therapy draws upon those strengths and endeavors to build even more.
![Photo of Diane White - Gemini Counseling Center, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3be2ae0a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gemini Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Raritan, NJ 08869
Are your relationships or other life situations less satisfying than you would like them to be? At Gemini Counseling Center our experience has taught us that satisfying relationships are the foundation of a happy life. We work with individuals to help them find specific solutions to the issues that have been troubling them. We help couples and families learn to use respectful communication to build closeness and create greater intimacy. We believe that prople have a profound capacity for making lasting changes and for experiencing the relief of emotional healing.
Are your relationships or other life situations less satisfying than you would like them to be? At Gemini Counseling Center our experience has taught us that satisfying relationships are the foundation of a happy life. We work with individuals to help them find specific solutions to the issues that have been troubling them. We help couples and families learn to use respectful communication to build closeness and create greater intimacy. We believe that prople have a profound capacity for making lasting changes and for experiencing the relief of emotional healing.
![Photo of Michele Levin, LPC, LCADC, ACS, SAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1cc968b-6141-4657-a95e-effd87e3c332/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michele Levin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, ACS, SAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raritan, NJ 08869
Former Program Director of the Child and Adolescent Program at one of the largest outpatient programs in New Jersey, I co-own BluePrint Mental Health with my husband John Mopper. I confidently treat children, adolescents and their families to cope with and overcome the barriers they are currently facing. Children and teens often shut down or act out when they are struggling and do not have the skillset to express themselves in healthy ways, which can leave a parent lost as to what is happening with their child and what to do.
Former Program Director of the Child and Adolescent Program at one of the largest outpatient programs in New Jersey, I co-own BluePrint Mental Health with my husband John Mopper. I confidently treat children, adolescents and their families to cope with and overcome the barriers they are currently facing. Children and teens often shut down or act out when they are struggling and do not have the skillset to express themselves in healthy ways, which can leave a parent lost as to what is happening with their child and what to do.
![Photo of James Hutchison, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3daef409-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with clients who see that their Christian beliefs are a big part of who they are, and are looking for someone who understands and respects that. I work with all individuals, couples, and preteen-adult boys. I specialize in those who are struggling with emotional and relational issues, as well as, ADHD, sex addiction, depression, anxiety, OCD, grief/loss, abandonment, anger fear, divorce, and weight loss. I also work with parenting skills, and child behavior problems.
I work with clients who see that their Christian beliefs are a big part of who they are, and are looking for someone who understands and respects that. I work with all individuals, couples, and preteen-adult boys. I specialize in those who are struggling with emotional and relational issues, as well as, ADHD, sex addiction, depression, anxiety, OCD, grief/loss, abandonment, anger fear, divorce, and weight loss. I also work with parenting skills, and child behavior problems.
![Photo of Gul Noreen Iqbal - Olive Branch Therapy Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4244fb26-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Olive Branch Therapy Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raritan, NJ 08869
We’re pleased you’ve made your first step towards healing. We understand that seeking help, whether for yourself or for your children isn’t always easy. Unfortunately, life doesn’t come with a user’s manual, and when times get tough, many of us are left feeling confused, angry, depressed and helpless. While we can’t provide you with a magical user’s manual to life, we can offer you an ancient symbol of peace, an olive branch. We want to help you extend that olive branch to not only the important relationships in your life but to yourself as well. Because at the end of the day, we all deserve inner peace.
We’re pleased you’ve made your first step towards healing. We understand that seeking help, whether for yourself or for your children isn’t always easy. Unfortunately, life doesn’t come with a user’s manual, and when times get tough, many of us are left feeling confused, angry, depressed and helpless. While we can’t provide you with a magical user’s manual to life, we can offer you an ancient symbol of peace, an olive branch. We want to help you extend that olive branch to not only the important relationships in your life but to yourself as well. Because at the end of the day, we all deserve inner peace.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Debra Ruisard, DSW, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48cd4499-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Debra Ruisard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somerville, NJ 08876
Making the decision to engage in psychotherapy is an important step in healing from traumatic life events that leave emotional wounds long into adulthood. My approach to working with individuals suffering from traumatic stress comes from an understanding that trauma is stored in the body. Often traditional talk therapy is ineffective until one learns how to calm the body’s heightened state of anxiety and therefore allowing the mind to focus on healing rather than survival. Substance abuse is often an effective but maladaptive coping strategy for the emotional and physical stress responses that linger long after the traumatic experience is over. I assist clients who struggle with substances to discover the connection between their substance use and their trauma symptoms, and to develop new strategies for recovery that start with the body.
Making the decision to engage in psychotherapy is an important step in healing from traumatic life events that leave emotional wounds long into adulthood. My approach to working with individuals suffering from traumatic stress comes from an understanding that trauma is stored in the body. Often traditional talk therapy is ineffective until one learns how to calm the body’s heightened state of anxiety and therefore allowing the mind to focus on healing rather than survival. Substance abuse is often an effective but maladaptive coping strategy for the emotional and physical stress responses that linger long after the traumatic experience is over. I assist clients who struggle with substances to discover the connection between their substance use and their trauma symptoms, and to develop new strategies for recovery that start with the body.
![Photo of Denise Cullinan, MA, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfb190aa-14ad-4b2e-9a04-451e47ff0d05/1/320x400.jpeg)
Denise Cullinan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Somerville, NJ 08876 (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, and substance use issues.
Reaching out for support can be uncomfortable but is often the first step in making change. Anxiety and depression can weigh heavily on our daily lives and impact our ability to feel joy. I will help you learn tools and skills to manage your emotions. I believe that you are the expert of your life and together we can find solutions to improve your mental health.
I specialize in anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, and substance use issues.
Reaching out for support can be uncomfortable but is often the first step in making change. Anxiety and depression can weigh heavily on our daily lives and impact our ability to feel joy. I will help you learn tools and skills to manage your emotions. I believe that you are the expert of your life and together we can find solutions to improve your mental health.
![Photo of Brett Peppe, MA, LPC, LCADC, ACS, , Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd3af6e7-2b26-461d-a489-57e85cf90ff8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brett Peppe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
Somerville, NJ 08876 (Online Only)
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor, I recognize that taking the first step toward therapy can be difficult. I'm a strength-based therapist who aims to assist clients in overcoming difficult situations of the past in order to work toward unlocking their true potential. I see clients ages 14 and older seeking help for problems related to living with trauma, grief, depression and anxiety. I look forward to actively assisting you in your process of change and self-improvement. Any questions? Just ask!
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor, I recognize that taking the first step toward therapy can be difficult. I'm a strength-based therapist who aims to assist clients in overcoming difficult situations of the past in order to work toward unlocking their true potential. I see clients ages 14 and older seeking help for problems related to living with trauma, grief, depression and anxiety. I look forward to actively assisting you in your process of change and self-improvement. Any questions? Just ask!
![Photo of Christopher Lombardi, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce3e0656-0891-4261-a28b-524265317025/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher Lombardi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Somerville, NJ 08876
Worry. Restlessness. Poor Concentration. Intrusive Thoughts. Panic. Our mental health can serve as a major disruption to our lives. I admire your courage in taking this step to seek out help. As your therapist, I will first strive to understand your story. Then, we will collaboratively identify a therapeutic approach that will best fit your goals. Often times, our past impacts our present . Therefore, we can strive to not only address your current symptoms, but attempt to resolve the root causes to your problems, such as unresolved trauma. We don’t always realize how much old emotional wounds are still causing us pain.
Worry. Restlessness. Poor Concentration. Intrusive Thoughts. Panic. Our mental health can serve as a major disruption to our lives. I admire your courage in taking this step to seek out help. As your therapist, I will first strive to understand your story. Then, we will collaboratively identify a therapeutic approach that will best fit your goals. Often times, our past impacts our present . Therefore, we can strive to not only address your current symptoms, but attempt to resolve the root causes to your problems, such as unresolved trauma. We don’t always realize how much old emotional wounds are still causing us pain.
![Photo of April Peschke, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ce1a44a-7a4a-49ba-af2e-35f46557cd36/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience working with people of all ages and stages in life. Imagine meeting someone who understands you and can help you sort through life’s twists and turns. From young children to older adults and couples I have an eclectic approach to suit the needs of each individual client. My office is a safe and comfortable space where clients feel supported while they learn effective coping skills.
I have experience working with people of all ages and stages in life. Imagine meeting someone who understands you and can help you sort through life’s twists and turns. From young children to older adults and couples I have an eclectic approach to suit the needs of each individual client. My office is a safe and comfortable space where clients feel supported while they learn effective coping skills.
![Photo of Sean Beckett, MA, LAC, EMDR-T, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68182856-7284-40e0-8e1c-9268af377a0d/3/320x400.jpeg)
I strive to uphold cultural humility each day. Specifically, respecting all individuals and their values, beliefs, and opinions. A person’s background and culture highlights the wonderful qualities about them which deserve to be recognized and respected. I also strive to continue dismantling the stigma of mental health treatment each day. Struggling with mental health issues is one that is not only common, but also can be normal! I believe that the need to talk and process life with another person should not be stigmatized. Therefore, each day I work to promote a non-judgmental, friendly, accepting, and safe space for people.
I strive to uphold cultural humility each day. Specifically, respecting all individuals and their values, beliefs, and opinions. A person’s background and culture highlights the wonderful qualities about them which deserve to be recognized and respected. I also strive to continue dismantling the stigma of mental health treatment each day. Struggling with mental health issues is one that is not only common, but also can be normal! I believe that the need to talk and process life with another person should not be stigmatized. Therefore, each day I work to promote a non-judgmental, friendly, accepting, and safe space for people.
![Photo of Ruth Altamura-Roll, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46a978e7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ruth Altamura-Roll
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Somerville, NJ 08876
When life is painful and overwhelming, I will listen. If you are struggling with addictions, I can help. When your relationship feels broken, I will give you tools. And if your self-esteem is hurting, I can provide skills to grow. Often childhood or adult trauma challenges your beliefs and you struggle with depression or anxiety. I practice Holistic methods focusing on Emotions, Belief Systems, Relationships, Health and Spirituality. Counseling is safe and confidential for women, men, couples and adolescents who are dealing with addictions, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, OCD, grief, anger, incest, infidelity, women's issues, and PTSD.
When life is painful and overwhelming, I will listen. If you are struggling with addictions, I can help. When your relationship feels broken, I will give you tools. And if your self-esteem is hurting, I can provide skills to grow. Often childhood or adult trauma challenges your beliefs and you struggle with depression or anxiety. I practice Holistic methods focusing on Emotions, Belief Systems, Relationships, Health and Spirituality. Counseling is safe and confidential for women, men, couples and adolescents who are dealing with addictions, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, OCD, grief, anger, incest, infidelity, women's issues, and PTSD.
![Photo of John Guldner, MA, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90e99ec6-3c35-4707-855d-0d2d4773d2b4/2/320x400.jpeg)
John Guldner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Somerville, NJ 08876 (Online Only)
Coping with depression, anxiety, addiction, or even just life stressors can at times feel overwhelming. It's like you are stuck in a cycle of pain and anguish, and your best efforts to deal with it end up making things worse. Maybe you have reached out to friends and family for help, and have been met with either criticism or well-intentioned, but unhelpful advice. You might have even read a self-help book or two, and struggled to use what you've learned for more than a couple weeks. Sometimes, even the efforts to change seem so difficult that you'll give up, convinced things will never get better. There is a better way.
Coping with depression, anxiety, addiction, or even just life stressors can at times feel overwhelming. It's like you are stuck in a cycle of pain and anguish, and your best efforts to deal with it end up making things worse. Maybe you have reached out to friends and family for help, and have been met with either criticism or well-intentioned, but unhelpful advice. You might have even read a self-help book or two, and struggled to use what you've learned for more than a couple weeks. Sometimes, even the efforts to change seem so difficult that you'll give up, convinced things will never get better. There is a better way.
![Photo of Richard Smith, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a8eb25d-0262-4f37-8b52-f34912c8d309/3/320x400.jpeg)
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
![Photo of Stacey Nicholas - Inner Light Counseling NJ, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/204aa0ad-bdb0-4b15-bf3c-d4407a723d9c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Inner Light Counseling NJ
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Somerville, NJ 08876
Our therapists are here to help you get through the struggles you might be facing. Each therapist is devoted to helping you work through such issues as relationship conflict, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, LGBTQ issues, grief and loss, marriage and relationship counseling and many more. When you call our office, we will match you up with the best therapist suited to meet your needs and help you with the particular issues you might be dealing with at the time.
Our therapists are here to help you get through the struggles you might be facing. Each therapist is devoted to helping you work through such issues as relationship conflict, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, LGBTQ issues, grief and loss, marriage and relationship counseling and many more. When you call our office, we will match you up with the best therapist suited to meet your needs and help you with the particular issues you might be dealing with at the time.
![Photo of Suzanne Rosenthal, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/464460a0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
See more therapy options for Raritan
Nearby Substance Use Therapists Searches for Raritan
- Basking Ridge
- Bedminster
- Belle Mead
- Bound Brook
- Branchburg
- Bridgewater
- Hillsborough
- Middlesex
- Montgomery
- Somerset
- Somerville
- Warren
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.