Substance Use Therapists in Far Rockaway, NY
![Photo of Nahum Spirn, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0f03d0b-7abb-4e05-bdc4-cb12c23fc4a0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you sometimes feel like you have no one to talk to, or no one who understands you? Do you feel there's deeper emotional stuff going on inside that might be causing you physical or emotional pain? Or perhaps you're dealing with difficulties with children or other family members ... or with habits or emotions that may seem beyond your control ... or simply with moving your life in a more positive direction? If you're the kind of person who wants to understand themselves and others better, and is looking for an accepting, non-judgmental therapeutic relationship in which you can be open and honest — then keep reading!
Do you sometimes feel like you have no one to talk to, or no one who understands you? Do you feel there's deeper emotional stuff going on inside that might be causing you physical or emotional pain? Or perhaps you're dealing with difficulties with children or other family members ... or with habits or emotions that may seem beyond your control ... or simply with moving your life in a more positive direction? If you're the kind of person who wants to understand themselves and others better, and is looking for an accepting, non-judgmental therapeutic relationship in which you can be open and honest — then keep reading!
![Photo of Brocha Barbara Silverstein, NCAC, SAP, IC&RC, CPRA, EDIT, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c6e2cb8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Brocha Barbara Silverstein
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, NCAC, SAP, IC&RC, CPRA, EDIT
Verified Verified
Far Rockaway, NY 11691
Do you feel that no one understands you? That people just want you to stop using? That you are alone with the disease of addiction? Do you feel like people just want you to stop doing it, stop using? Do you have a struggle with drugs, alcohol, gambling, food, sex, pornography, internet? Are any of these controlling your or your loved one's life? Let's help you help yourself, let's treat the disease as a disease and find sustained recovery, a recovery customized to your or your loved one's disease. You can be cured! I also provide Return to duty/work DOT, SAP assessments, and education.
Do you feel that no one understands you? That people just want you to stop using? That you are alone with the disease of addiction? Do you feel like people just want you to stop doing it, stop using? Do you have a struggle with drugs, alcohol, gambling, food, sex, pornography, internet? Are any of these controlling your or your loved one's life? Let's help you help yourself, let's treat the disease as a disease and find sustained recovery, a recovery customized to your or your loved one's disease. You can be cured! I also provide Return to duty/work DOT, SAP assessments, and education.
Kimberly J Berman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Far Rockaway, NY 11691 (Online Only)
My approach is to cultivate a professional relationship with each client while developing trust at the patient's pace. The client and therapist, together, identify goals and devise a plan to facilitate desired changes.It is vitally important that the client feels comfortable with the therapist. Although I am an eclectic psychotherapist,I have provided counseling in my twenty-plus years experience, specializing in anxiety, couple's difficulties, mild OCD, and eating disorders.
My approach is to cultivate a professional relationship with each client while developing trust at the patient's pace. The client and therapist, together, identify goals and devise a plan to facilitate desired changes.It is vitally important that the client feels comfortable with the therapist. Although I am an eclectic psychotherapist,I have provided counseling in my twenty-plus years experience, specializing in anxiety, couple's difficulties, mild OCD, and eating disorders.
![Photo of Lourdes Herrera, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4597633c-efe0-4bd5-8d56-cd580da3a7ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed mental health counselor. I am a non-judgmental, compassionate, humorous and empathetic therapist. I value a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust. My approach to therapy is holistic based on the mind and body connection. I utilize integrative approaches, person-centered therapy, strengths-based focus, cognitive behavioral therapy, multicultural therapy, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing.
I am a licensed mental health counselor. I am a non-judgmental, compassionate, humorous and empathetic therapist. I value a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust. My approach to therapy is holistic based on the mind and body connection. I utilize integrative approaches, person-centered therapy, strengths-based focus, cognitive behavioral therapy, multicultural therapy, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing.
![Photo of Melech David Mann, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbec49fe-98a4-44df-82f3-610cab1e2846/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melech David Mann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Far Rockaway, NY 11691
You know that gut sensation that something about your professional life or relationship isn’t right? Or that feeling of anxiety about everything and anything? Feelings that block you from confidently living your present and planning your future . You may feel like things are always stuck with no end in sight, and find yourself thinking: “I’ve tried so hard for so long and I don’t see much to show for it.” “Why can't I get my marriage right?" “I try so hard to be such a good mother/father/husband/wife etc...“Why do other people with less training, effort or experience often seem to do better than me?”
You know that gut sensation that something about your professional life or relationship isn’t right? Or that feeling of anxiety about everything and anything? Feelings that block you from confidently living your present and planning your future . You may feel like things are always stuck with no end in sight, and find yourself thinking: “I’ve tried so hard for so long and I don’t see much to show for it.” “Why can't I get my marriage right?" “I try so hard to be such a good mother/father/husband/wife etc...“Why do other people with less training, effort or experience often seem to do better than me?”
![Photo of Lisa Rosenblatt, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ff3564a-9130-4e3b-a547-14026f4efe6e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in individual, couples and family therapy. I am a graduate of Wurzweiler School of Social Work and received post graduate training in EMDR, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Internal Family Systems, CBT, and Skills Training in Affect and Interpersonal Regulation. My areas of expertise are addictions (alcohol, drugs, sex, and codependency), sexual abuse, anxiety, depression, parenting and marital issues. I utilize a variety of methodologies and techniques to best help client achieve their goals. Much of my work involves healing the inner child which enables the individual/couple to re parent themselves and become empowered.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in individual, couples and family therapy. I am a graduate of Wurzweiler School of Social Work and received post graduate training in EMDR, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Internal Family Systems, CBT, and Skills Training in Affect and Interpersonal Regulation. My areas of expertise are addictions (alcohol, drugs, sex, and codependency), sexual abuse, anxiety, depression, parenting and marital issues. I utilize a variety of methodologies and techniques to best help client achieve their goals. Much of my work involves healing the inner child which enables the individual/couple to re parent themselves and become empowered.
Dr. Denise Richardson
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC2, SAP, CCTP2, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Far Rockaway, NY 11691
Waitlist for new clients
My mission is to affirm, respect, and individualize everyone's life journey as perceived by the individual while caringly assisting them through their navigation toward optimal mental health. My services are personalized for those who are struggling to be listened to, heard, valued, accepted and understood. Every age, gender, orientation, and culture are treated with dignity and is afforded an emotionally safe space to face, discuss, and process their experiences and personal truths without judgment.
My mission is to affirm, respect, and individualize everyone's life journey as perceived by the individual while caringly assisting them through their navigation toward optimal mental health. My services are personalized for those who are struggling to be listened to, heard, valued, accepted and understood. Every age, gender, orientation, and culture are treated with dignity and is afforded an emotionally safe space to face, discuss, and process their experiences and personal truths without judgment.
![Photo of Talia Gutlove, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77f82917-d3c9-46de-a47b-bdb4d0d15850/2/320x400.jpeg)
Talia Gutlove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Far Rockaway, NY 11690
I am passionate about helping my clients develop healthy, fulfilling relationships & feel more confident, satisfied, & empowered in their individual and romantic lives. I have received specialized training in the treatment of sexual & relationship issues. I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I utilize a sex-positive approach to help individuals and couples work through their challenges and traumas, build greater intimacy, & improve their relationships.
I am passionate about helping my clients develop healthy, fulfilling relationships & feel more confident, satisfied, & empowered in their individual and romantic lives. I have received specialized training in the treatment of sexual & relationship issues. I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I utilize a sex-positive approach to help individuals and couples work through their challenges and traumas, build greater intimacy, & improve their relationships.
![Photo of Stefani Rinde-Oberferst, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5aff6214-492e-41b4-bb3a-26bc955607fc/1/320x400.png)
Stefani Rinde-Oberferst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Far Rockaway, NY 11691 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am an experienced, dedicated, and dynamic social worker, psychotherapist, life coach, and educator with over thirty years of clinical experience. I graduated from the University of Rochester with a Master of Science in Community Health & Services and later graduated from Syracuse University with my Master of Social Work degree. My areas of expertise include, but are not limited to, family of origin and relationship issues, grief and loss, stress management, anxiety, and depression.
I am an experienced, dedicated, and dynamic social worker, psychotherapist, life coach, and educator with over thirty years of clinical experience. I graduated from the University of Rochester with a Master of Science in Community Health & Services and later graduated from Syracuse University with my Master of Social Work degree. My areas of expertise include, but are not limited to, family of origin and relationship issues, grief and loss, stress management, anxiety, and depression.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Lisa Babb, LCSW, CASAC-M, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/680f3a7b-5466-4b50-b43f-3495c53fa229/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, unresolved trauma, or substance use issues? These issues can be overwhelming with long-lasting feelings and behaviors that have become barriers to achieving your daily or life goals. Fortunately, healing power lies within each of us. Therapy is an opportunity for people to develop insight into themselves and their relationships, to find self-acceptance and deeper connections with others. I will provide therapy to help you reach your potential and improve the quality of your life. Therapy begins the healing process.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, unresolved trauma, or substance use issues? These issues can be overwhelming with long-lasting feelings and behaviors that have become barriers to achieving your daily or life goals. Fortunately, healing power lies within each of us. Therapy is an opportunity for people to develop insight into themselves and their relationships, to find self-acceptance and deeper connections with others. I will provide therapy to help you reach your potential and improve the quality of your life. Therapy begins the healing process.
![Photo of Lucy Pecorella, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae27fe6a-cbd6-4dcf-9608-dad504430197/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lucy Pecorella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NY 11385 (Online Only)
I have worked in a variety of modalities and sectors of the field. I have experience with all age groups in the areas of homelessness, hospital setting, substance use, mental health, school settings, domestic violence, bereavement, family, and individual counseling.
I have worked in a variety of modalities and sectors of the field. I have experience with all age groups in the areas of homelessness, hospital setting, substance use, mental health, school settings, domestic violence, bereavement, family, and individual counseling.
![Photo of Rena Blatt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2b85b40-92d0-4007-a4fa-901c78f7b49b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rena Blatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11367 (Online Only)
I work with individuals and families to provide services for those struggling with anxiety, substance use, self- harm, depression, trauma, and life transitions.
Life can be overwhelming; why go through it alone?! I can help you live a life that excites and invigorates you. I work with you to create an individualized plan based on your needs. You have the tools to succeed in life, and working together we can discover them, as I view my clients as partners in the healing process. Reaching out for help is the first and hardest step leading you in the right direction. Looking forward to hearing from you!
I work with individuals and families to provide services for those struggling with anxiety, substance use, self- harm, depression, trauma, and life transitions.
Life can be overwhelming; why go through it alone?! I can help you live a life that excites and invigorates you. I work with you to create an individualized plan based on your needs. You have the tools to succeed in life, and working together we can discover them, as I view my clients as partners in the healing process. Reaching out for help is the first and hardest step leading you in the right direction. Looking forward to hearing from you!
![Photo of Thomas J. Phillips, LCSW, CASAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb101df-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Thomas J. Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jamaica, NY 11435
I provide comprehensive assessment of substance use, addictive-like behaviors and emotional, social and workplace issues that interfere with normal functioning.
HAVE YOU OR OTHERS HAD CONCERNS ABOUT YOUR ALCOHOL USE? WHEN FEELING ANGRY OR FRUSTRATED DO YOU USE ALCOHOL OR OTHER DRUGS TO HELP RELIEVE YOUR NEGATIVE FEELINGS? Misusing alcohol, drugs, food or engaging in behaviors like excessive gambling or shopping to cope with strong emotions, may become habitual and as problematic as the negative feelings they are meant to alleviate.
I provide comprehensive assessment of substance use, addictive-like behaviors and emotional, social and workplace issues that interfere with normal functioning.
HAVE YOU OR OTHERS HAD CONCERNS ABOUT YOUR ALCOHOL USE? WHEN FEELING ANGRY OR FRUSTRATED DO YOU USE ALCOHOL OR OTHER DRUGS TO HELP RELIEVE YOUR NEGATIVE FEELINGS? Misusing alcohol, drugs, food or engaging in behaviors like excessive gambling or shopping to cope with strong emotions, may become habitual and as problematic as the negative feelings they are meant to alleviate.
![Photo of Judith Sason, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b96bbfaf-a0a8-473f-a97c-a0e3c2040bb9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Judith Sason
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375 (Online Only)
I have experience working with clients that struggle with chronic illness, loss, substance use, work and daily life stressors, relationship issues and family conflict.
As a licensed clinical therapist for over 5 years, my goal is to assist my clients in obtaining insight into their daily functioning in order to live a healthy meaningful life. Using evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Grief Counseling, Trauma Informed Care, and Supportive Counseling, I empower my clients to develop healthy coping techniques and skills to manage their mental health.
I have experience working with clients that struggle with chronic illness, loss, substance use, work and daily life stressors, relationship issues and family conflict.
As a licensed clinical therapist for over 5 years, my goal is to assist my clients in obtaining insight into their daily functioning in order to live a healthy meaningful life. Using evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Grief Counseling, Trauma Informed Care, and Supportive Counseling, I empower my clients to develop healthy coping techniques and skills to manage their mental health.
![Photo of Dr. Marisol Valencia-Payne, Psy D, M A, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/727e82d3-7707-4c96-80e3-7eaef22ee0f0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Marisol Valencia-Payne
Psychologist, Psy D, M A
Verified Verified
Kew Gardens, NY 11415 (Online Only)
My experience includes working with trauma, substance use and addictions, interpersonal concerns, couples, and neuropsychology.
Reaching out is often the toughest step and it is very important (and can be rewarding) to find the right fit! Each individual has their own unique story and experiences and therefore deserving of an individualized approach to therapy. The therapeutic relationship should foster one's personal journey to self exploration and growth. My goal is to help you find your best fit and support you in your personal growth, healing, and self-empowering journey. My approach is often described as supportive, warm, empowering, challenging (when you need it), and humorous.
My experience includes working with trauma, substance use and addictions, interpersonal concerns, couples, and neuropsychology.
Reaching out is often the toughest step and it is very important (and can be rewarding) to find the right fit! Each individual has their own unique story and experiences and therefore deserving of an individualized approach to therapy. The therapeutic relationship should foster one's personal journey to self exploration and growth. My goal is to help you find your best fit and support you in your personal growth, healing, and self-empowering journey. My approach is often described as supportive, warm, empowering, challenging (when you need it), and humorous.
![Photo of Victoria Pearson - Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling PLLC, LMHC, LPC, CASAC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ea43aa0-493d-4d24-8dcf-0a2c19264df7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jamaica, NY 11412
Our services include individual/couples/family and grief counseling, ACS-accredited parenting groups, anger management, domestic violence, crisis intervention, substance use treatment, and trauma-informed therapy.
These past two years have been difficult and everyone needs a safe place to talk about how they feel. Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling provides that safe place. We are dedicated, licensed professions who want to help you get through these difficult times and adjust to the new normal. Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling provides compassionate, professional counseling services from Therapists dedicated to helping you heal and grow. We are a grass roots practice with courteous staff and affordable pricing.
Our services include individual/couples/family and grief counseling, ACS-accredited parenting groups, anger management, domestic violence, crisis intervention, substance use treatment, and trauma-informed therapy.
These past two years have been difficult and everyone needs a safe place to talk about how they feel. Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling provides that safe place. We are dedicated, licensed professions who want to help you get through these difficult times and adjust to the new normal. Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling provides compassionate, professional counseling services from Therapists dedicated to helping you heal and grow. We are a grass roots practice with courteous staff and affordable pricing.
![Photo of Veronica E Hemmings - Veronica Hemmings: Hemmings LCSW Counseling PC, LCSW-R, CASAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31a0f98c-247a-4c13-97ff-8fe80de0610c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Veronica Hemmings: Hemmings LCSW Counseling PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CASAC
Verified Verified
Valley Stream, NY 11580
I work with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, parent/teen issues, conflicts resolution, substance use, codependency, anger management and other issues.
Everyone at some point in their life has been faced with a difficult or challenging situation. Through a supportive and nurturing relationship, we will work together to gain insight, greater self understanding and self acceptance about your thoughts, feelings and behavior; develop healthy ways to cope with stress to improve your quality of life. I assist my clients in overcoming their emotional pain to find a path to happiness they desire using a more eclectic and integrated approach tailored to your specific needs. My primary goal is to empower individuals to live their best life
I work with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, parent/teen issues, conflicts resolution, substance use, codependency, anger management and other issues.
Everyone at some point in their life has been faced with a difficult or challenging situation. Through a supportive and nurturing relationship, we will work together to gain insight, greater self understanding and self acceptance about your thoughts, feelings and behavior; develop healthy ways to cope with stress to improve your quality of life. I assist my clients in overcoming their emotional pain to find a path to happiness they desire using a more eclectic and integrated approach tailored to your specific needs. My primary goal is to empower individuals to live their best life
![Photo of Laura Guber, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc2e2552-6e46-44b4-8d45-1bf7d2edd210/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Guber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest Hills, NY 11375
I am an experienced psychotherapist who specializes in treating adolescents & adults with anxiety, depression, anger issues, substance use disorders, trauma, relationship issues, & other life/work challenges. I offer a safe environment where clients can express themselves openly & feel supported. My clients describe me as caring, insightful, & well-attuned therapist who is committed to the therapeutic relationship. I hold an unshakable belief in a person’s ability to heal, change, & grow. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empowering & helping clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves & their relationships.
I am an experienced psychotherapist who specializes in treating adolescents & adults with anxiety, depression, anger issues, substance use disorders, trauma, relationship issues, & other life/work challenges. I offer a safe environment where clients can express themselves openly & feel supported. My clients describe me as caring, insightful, & well-attuned therapist who is committed to the therapeutic relationship. I hold an unshakable belief in a person’s ability to heal, change, & grow. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empowering & helping clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves & their relationships.
![Photo of Jocelyn Fraum, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa462921-5208-4971-b7aa-98bd4c320930/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in drug and alcohol abuse, with 10+ years providing individual and group therapy for people trying to reduce, moderate or stop their substance use.
Change is possible. You CAN feel better. You may be skeptical that what you're struggling with can be helped, blaming and judging yourself instead. You may be frustrated by many attempts to make things better without helping. A part of you may want to avoid looking at what is happening straight on for fear it could make things worse. These fears are normal. With kindness, curiosity, and a helpful framework, we can address these concerns while also allowing you to get the help you need.
I specialize in drug and alcohol abuse, with 10+ years providing individual and group therapy for people trying to reduce, moderate or stop their substance use.
Change is possible. You CAN feel better. You may be skeptical that what you're struggling with can be helped, blaming and judging yourself instead. You may be frustrated by many attempts to make things better without helping. A part of you may want to avoid looking at what is happening straight on for fear it could make things worse. These fears are normal. With kindness, curiosity, and a helpful framework, we can address these concerns while also allowing you to get the help you need.
![Photo of Chris Cochrane, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c8378f2-f67c-4c75-86c9-d47788b88100/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chris Cochrane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11225 (Online Only)
Being part of the LBGTQ+ communities I have worked with a diverse range of people who have experienced depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, grief, struggles with substance use and life transitions.
Every life has a history of twist and turns, with episodes of successes, failures, challenges, decisions, changes and losses. We often inhabit patterns that once helped us to survive, yet now hinder us in recognizing or becoming who we truly are. These patterns can affect a variety of life issues, such as goal attainment, difficulties in relationships, and our ability to communicate, leaving us feeling frustrated, confused, or stuck.
Being part of the LBGTQ+ communities I have worked with a diverse range of people who have experienced depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, grief, struggles with substance use and life transitions.
Every life has a history of twist and turns, with episodes of successes, failures, challenges, decisions, changes and losses. We often inhabit patterns that once helped us to survive, yet now hinder us in recognizing or becoming who we truly are. These patterns can affect a variety of life issues, such as goal attainment, difficulties in relationships, and our ability to communicate, leaving us feeling frustrated, confused, or stuck.
See more therapy options for Far Rockaway
Nearby Substance Use Therapists Searches for Far Rockaway
- Cedarhurst
- Hewlett
- Howard Beach
- Jamaica
- Lawrence
- Long Beach
- Ozone Park
- Rosedale
- Saint Albans
- Valley Stream
- Woodhaven
- Woodmere
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.