Substance Use Therapists in Columbus, OH

Photo of William C Crowe, LICDC, AGRMS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
William C Crowe
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LICDC, AGRMS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
I am a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC) with 10 + years of experience working with the adult Mental Health, Substance Use Disorder and Criminal Justice population in an individual and group counseling setting.
What is the benefit of not engaging in your recovery? What is it costing you not to engage in your recovery? What is the costs or difficulties to not engaging in your recovery? What are the benefits of engaging in your recovery? I believe in teaching you that identifying, avoiding, and managing the triggering places, people, feelings and things associated with the urges of substance use are key to obtaining your personal wellness and recovery.
I am a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC) with 10 + years of experience working with the adult Mental Health, Substance Use Disorder and Criminal Justice population in an individual and group counseling setting.
What is the benefit of not engaging in your recovery? What is it costing you not to engage in your recovery? What is the costs or difficulties to not engaging in your recovery? What are the benefits of engaging in your recovery? I believe in teaching you that identifying, avoiding, and managing the triggering places, people, feelings and things associated with the urges of substance use are key to obtaining your personal wellness and recovery.
(380) 333-6963 View (380) 333-6963
Photo of Megan Roesch, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Roesch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43212
Do you find that mental health tends to rule your life? Do you feel like you have no control over your own thoughts and feelings? Maybe you find yourself struggling to get through the day or are terrified to communicate your own needs. Trauma has the ugly power to influence these aspects of daily living and many others. If this sounds like you, let's talk! I have over 6 years of experience in supporting those living with the effects of traumatic events, difficult life transitions, anxiety and depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and substance use.
Do you find that mental health tends to rule your life? Do you feel like you have no control over your own thoughts and feelings? Maybe you find yourself struggling to get through the day or are terrified to communicate your own needs. Trauma has the ugly power to influence these aspects of daily living and many others. If this sounds like you, let's talk! I have over 6 years of experience in supporting those living with the effects of traumatic events, difficult life transitions, anxiety and depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and substance use.
(614) 618-3844 View (614) 618-3844
Photo of Rachael Gardner Purdy, LCPC, LICDC, LSW, Counselor
Rachael Gardner Purdy
Counselor, LCPC, LICDC, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in multiple areas but have special interests in substance use/abuse disorders, trauma and abuse, LGBTQIA+ issues, and those harmed or hurt by the church, religion, or other various organized groups, and wanting their voice to be heard.
I am passionate about my work and helping individuals gain insight and understanding in their own challenges, strengths, limits, and abilities. As a proponent of holistic healing, I am working toward the use of yoga, yoga for trauma, meditation, and wellness coaching in my practice. My specialties include behavioral and mental health, substance use/abuse/dependence, LGBTQIA+ issues, and trauma with training in EMDR for difficult cases. From experience, I know, regardless of the difficulties in life, there is always a solution/change which can happen to help you find a positive to every situation -even if is not what you thought.
I specialize in multiple areas but have special interests in substance use/abuse disorders, trauma and abuse, LGBTQIA+ issues, and those harmed or hurt by the church, religion, or other various organized groups, and wanting their voice to be heard.
I am passionate about my work and helping individuals gain insight and understanding in their own challenges, strengths, limits, and abilities. As a proponent of holistic healing, I am working toward the use of yoga, yoga for trauma, meditation, and wellness coaching in my practice. My specialties include behavioral and mental health, substance use/abuse/dependence, LGBTQIA+ issues, and trauma with training in EMDR for difficult cases. From experience, I know, regardless of the difficulties in life, there is always a solution/change which can happen to help you find a positive to every situation -even if is not what you thought.
(740) 661-6405 View (740) 661-6405
Photo of Racheal Wilson, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Racheal Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43085
Racheal Wilson (she/her) is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who is supervised by Michael Pollak, PCC-S. She provides individual counseling to adolescents (16+) and adults. Her areas of focus include bipolar disorder, dual-diagnosis, substance-use disorders, schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders, complex trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Racheal Wilson (she/her) is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who is supervised by Michael Pollak, PCC-S. She provides individual counseling to adolescents (16+) and adults. Her areas of focus include bipolar disorder, dual-diagnosis, substance-use disorders, schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders, complex trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
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Photo of Rai Eury, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rai Eury
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43201  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, and LGBTQ-related concerns for adults, and I offer gender-affirming care to individuals of all ages within the LGBTQ community.
Therapy can be a challenging decision for some, but it's an excellent starting point for creating positive change in your life. Let's work together to address those specific requirements. Together we can create a safe and encouraging environment for personal growth and exploration. Feeling heard, understood, respected, and valued in therapy is vital. Drawing from my background as a compassionate and empathetic listener, I'm eager to assist you in conquering the challenges you are facing today.
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, and LGBTQ-related concerns for adults, and I offer gender-affirming care to individuals of all ages within the LGBTQ community.
Therapy can be a challenging decision for some, but it's an excellent starting point for creating positive change in your life. Let's work together to address those specific requirements. Together we can create a safe and encouraging environment for personal growth and exploration. Feeling heard, understood, respected, and valued in therapy is vital. Drawing from my background as a compassionate and empathetic listener, I'm eager to assist you in conquering the challenges you are facing today.
(513) 848-6054 View (513) 848-6054
Photo of Lori Jarosz, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Jarosz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43240
I completed my Masters in Social work at Cleveland State University and have since gained valuable experience in working with those who face substance use problems and addictions as well as survivors of trauma. I knew from a very young age that helping people was part of who I am. I love walking with people as they explore themselves and gain insight, discover their strengths, and work toward healing. I believe that many of my own experiences in life, both happy and painful, shaped and gave me opportunities to grow and become who I am. I try to build on those experiences as I walk with my clients in their life journeys.
I completed my Masters in Social work at Cleveland State University and have since gained valuable experience in working with those who face substance use problems and addictions as well as survivors of trauma. I knew from a very young age that helping people was part of who I am. I love walking with people as they explore themselves and gain insight, discover their strengths, and work toward healing. I believe that many of my own experiences in life, both happy and painful, shaped and gave me opportunities to grow and become who I am. I try to build on those experiences as I walk with my clients in their life journeys.
(440) 750-2459 View (440) 750-2459
Photo of Alicia Jones, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alicia Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43230
I have years of experience treating individuals in various settings, but I specialize in treating adults suffering with trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, life transitions, bipolar, and substance use.
I view individuals as experts on themselves and believe in working collaboratively with clients to develop meaningful goals and treatment plans unique to them. I am passionate about increasing one’s sense of belonging and connection, quality of life, and effective coping skills. I utilize Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) techniques, Person-Centered Therapy, and Existential approaches most frequently: however, I am confident with other evidence-based approaches to tailor to client’s needs.
I have years of experience treating individuals in various settings, but I specialize in treating adults suffering with trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, life transitions, bipolar, and substance use.
I view individuals as experts on themselves and believe in working collaboratively with clients to develop meaningful goals and treatment plans unique to them. I am passionate about increasing one’s sense of belonging and connection, quality of life, and effective coping skills. I utilize Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) techniques, Person-Centered Therapy, and Existential approaches most frequently: however, I am confident with other evidence-based approaches to tailor to client’s needs.
(614) 656-7025 View (614) 656-7025
Photo of S. Lee Tepper, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
S. Lee Tepper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43235
Working collaboratively with clients and using a person-centered approach to therapy is central to the care I provide to all clients. I have robust experience and enjoy working with individuals who identify as LGBTQIA+, experience substance use addiction, poly/kink populations, young adults, and those who experience depression, anxiety, and (C)PTSD. As my client, you can expect a confidential, collaborative, and healthy working relationship to best meet your unique goals.
Working collaboratively with clients and using a person-centered approach to therapy is central to the care I provide to all clients. I have robust experience and enjoy working with individuals who identify as LGBTQIA+, experience substance use addiction, poly/kink populations, young adults, and those who experience depression, anxiety, and (C)PTSD. As my client, you can expect a confidential, collaborative, and healthy working relationship to best meet your unique goals.
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Photo of Jeremy Andrew Love, BA, CDCA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Jeremy Andrew Love
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, BA, CDCA
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43211
Jeremy Love is a Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA) serving our agency with an experienced focus on Alcohol and other Drug use. He works with clients to focus on skill building and positive reinforcement. Jeremy graduated from Bowling Green State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. In his college tenure he played Lacrosse as a two-time team Capitan, a Conference Champion, and an All-American. Jeremy’s passion to become a counselor arose in high school and ascended when he lost several friends to substance use. “I want to reach out to any one I can and be a helping hand to them no matter what.”
Jeremy Love is a Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA) serving our agency with an experienced focus on Alcohol and other Drug use. He works with clients to focus on skill building and positive reinforcement. Jeremy graduated from Bowling Green State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. In his college tenure he played Lacrosse as a two-time team Capitan, a Conference Champion, and an All-American. Jeremy’s passion to become a counselor arose in high school and ascended when he lost several friends to substance use. “I want to reach out to any one I can and be a helping hand to them no matter what.”
(614) 892-9816 x170 View (614) 892-9816 x170
Photo of R Jason Jones, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC-C, Counselor
R Jason Jones
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214
I am an independently licensed Profession Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC) in the State of Ohio and have been working in the field for over thirty years, helping individuals from a variety of backgrounds with substance use and mental health issues. I have experience working in residential treatment settings, outpatient community mental health programs, and in private practice. While I specialize in treating addictions to drugs or alcohol, gambling, or the internet, I have learned that these issues are often accompanied by depression, anxiety, panic, and grief.
I am an independently licensed Profession Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC) in the State of Ohio and have been working in the field for over thirty years, helping individuals from a variety of backgrounds with substance use and mental health issues. I have experience working in residential treatment settings, outpatient community mental health programs, and in private practice. While I specialize in treating addictions to drugs or alcohol, gambling, or the internet, I have learned that these issues are often accompanied by depression, anxiety, panic, and grief.
(614) 714-1294 View (614) 714-1294
Photo of James P Braga, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James P Braga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43210  (Online Only)
20s identity & family issues, cultural/racial issues, anger, substance use & grief/loss.
I believe a fine tuned awareness of oneself and a well regulated body are essential to overall well-being. I support you in understanding your problems in new ways and clarifying novel, practical options you can take to increase satisfaction and reduce distress. I work to assist you in clarifying your personal needs, mapping repetitive patterns and noticing what interferes with feeling fulfilled or settled. Action toward change is complicated and usually feels risky. I am here to help you understand yourself better and work through patterns that keep you stuck. Usually these patterns feel “second nature” and difficult to change.
20s identity & family issues, cultural/racial issues, anger, substance use & grief/loss.
I believe a fine tuned awareness of oneself and a well regulated body are essential to overall well-being. I support you in understanding your problems in new ways and clarifying novel, practical options you can take to increase satisfaction and reduce distress. I work to assist you in clarifying your personal needs, mapping repetitive patterns and noticing what interferes with feeling fulfilled or settled. Action toward change is complicated and usually feels risky. I am here to help you understand yourself better and work through patterns that keep you stuck. Usually these patterns feel “second nature” and difficult to change.
(380) 207-9446 View (380) 207-9446
Photo of Chris Palcsak, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Palcsak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220  (Online Only)
I am a licensed independent social worker with a diverse background that enriches my approach to therapy. My academic journey included studies in hospitality, Spanish, and geography, culminating in a master’s degree in social work from Ohio University in 2018. I have worked with adults and older teenagers from various backgrounds, with a focus on serving the LGBTQ+ community and people living with HIV. In community mental health and private practice settings, I have supported clients facing a spectrum of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, & interpersonal issues.
I am a licensed independent social worker with a diverse background that enriches my approach to therapy. My academic journey included studies in hospitality, Spanish, and geography, culminating in a master’s degree in social work from Ohio University in 2018. I have worked with adults and older teenagers from various backgrounds, with a focus on serving the LGBTQ+ community and people living with HIV. In community mental health and private practice settings, I have supported clients facing a spectrum of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, & interpersonal issues.
(614) 820-8576 View (614) 820-8576
Photo of Courtney Winger, MSSA, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Winger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43206
I have a strong background in community mental health, providing treatment for a variety of mental health and substance use disorders, along with crisis-intervention work.
Do you feel like your emotions are in the driver’s seat? Are you finding yourself falling into the same unhealthy habits or relationship patterns? Are you feeling burdened by the pain of your past? These are some of the most common concerns I hear when someone is in search of therapy. My goal is to help people find balance and create a life worth living. I strive to build a trusting relationship with my clients so that they can successfully achieve the goals most personal to them. I want my clients to feel safe and supported, while also encouraged to grow.
I have a strong background in community mental health, providing treatment for a variety of mental health and substance use disorders, along with crisis-intervention work.
Do you feel like your emotions are in the driver’s seat? Are you finding yourself falling into the same unhealthy habits or relationship patterns? Are you feeling burdened by the pain of your past? These are some of the most common concerns I hear when someone is in search of therapy. My goal is to help people find balance and create a life worth living. I strive to build a trusting relationship with my clients so that they can successfully achieve the goals most personal to them. I want my clients to feel safe and supported, while also encouraged to grow.
(380) 207-9636 View (380) 207-9636
Photo of Gregory May - Talk. Listen. Grow. , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Talk. Listen. Grow.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43251  (Online Only)
I bring the skills I have developed working in Community Mental Health, Residential Treatment, Substance Use Treatment, Child Protective Services, Child & Family Treatment, Vocational Rehabilitation, and Employee Assistance Programs.
I am Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with active licenses in Ohio, Hawai'i, & Texas. I am a trauma informed practitioner with 10 years of experience in Zen and Integral Psychotherapy, and training in Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy and Internal Family Systems. I am Safe Zone trained and affirming of all gender identities & expressions. I am experienced in supporting the LGBTQ+ community, and other communities of diverse relational norms. I am skilled in healing religious trauma and renewing spiritual connection.
I bring the skills I have developed working in Community Mental Health, Residential Treatment, Substance Use Treatment, Child Protective Services, Child & Family Treatment, Vocational Rehabilitation, and Employee Assistance Programs.
I am Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with active licenses in Ohio, Hawai'i, & Texas. I am a trauma informed practitioner with 10 years of experience in Zen and Integral Psychotherapy, and training in Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy and Internal Family Systems. I am Safe Zone trained and affirming of all gender identities & expressions. I am experienced in supporting the LGBTQ+ community, and other communities of diverse relational norms. I am skilled in healing religious trauma and renewing spiritual connection.
(380) 204-9444 View (380) 204-9444
Photo of Keera Wilmoth, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keera Wilmoth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43235
EMDR is an evidence-based treatment that can be used to help with PTSD, anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, grief, and many other things you may want to work on.
Hey there, I'm Keera! I use a person-centered approach to create a laid-back environment. Therapy should be both fun and challenging. I believe that the opportunity to learn about and alongside clients is an incredible privilege, and I admire the decision to begin any healing journey. I work with clients with anxiety, substance use disorders, trauma, depression, stress, and life transitions.
EMDR is an evidence-based treatment that can be used to help with PTSD, anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, grief, and many other things you may want to work on.
Hey there, I'm Keera! I use a person-centered approach to create a laid-back environment. Therapy should be both fun and challenging. I believe that the opportunity to learn about and alongside clients is an incredible privilege, and I admire the decision to begin any healing journey. I work with clients with anxiety, substance use disorders, trauma, depression, stress, and life transitions.
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Photo of Taylor Comer, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor Comer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43227  (Online Only)
Wherever you are in the healing process, know that you are not alone. l am passionate about helping you live a healthy life. I specialize in mental health and substance use disorders and have 6 years of experience in the field. I provide a person-centered approach which will allow me to meet you where you are at. I will focus on your strengths and utilize evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solutions-focused therapy. Our professional relationship between you and me will be built on trust and mutual respect. A safe environment where I strive to provide you with excellent care.
Wherever you are in the healing process, know that you are not alone. l am passionate about helping you live a healthy life. I specialize in mental health and substance use disorders and have 6 years of experience in the field. I provide a person-centered approach which will allow me to meet you where you are at. I will focus on your strengths and utilize evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solutions-focused therapy. Our professional relationship between you and me will be built on trust and mutual respect. A safe environment where I strive to provide you with excellent care.
(614) 666-6149 View (614) 666-6149
Photo of Thomas Nemerovsky, MEd, LPCC-S, LICDC-C, ICCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thomas Nemerovsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S, LICDC-C, ICCS
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43221
I specialize in substance use disorders, mood disorders, stress management, trauma, and PTSD. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated for change and are open to exploring strategies to help them improve their mental health and quality of life. I appreciate individuals engaged in the therapeutic process and sharing their thoughts and feelings openly, allowing for a collaborative therapeutic relationship.
I specialize in substance use disorders, mood disorders, stress management, trauma, and PTSD. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated for change and are open to exploring strategies to help them improve their mental health and quality of life. I appreciate individuals engaged in the therapeutic process and sharing their thoughts and feelings openly, allowing for a collaborative therapeutic relationship.
(614) 768-2724 View (614) 768-2724
Photo of Abdur Siddiq- Jennah Counseling Services, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abdur Siddiq- Jennah Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43209
I'm currently working as a Clinical Supervisor providing group therapy and 1 on 1 counseling to clients with substance use disorder and mental illness using a cognitive behavioral framework.
In a busy, hectic, fast-paced world, we sometimes find ourselves overwhelmed and needing somewhere safe and calm to breathe. Therapy can be a space where someone finds the time to relieve the stress of work, family/relationships and other psychosocial issues related to life in today's world. By addressing these needs, the person can become whole again and live the satisfying life they want. For consultation or to schedule an appointment, I can be reached at 614-354-7006.
I'm currently working as a Clinical Supervisor providing group therapy and 1 on 1 counseling to clients with substance use disorder and mental illness using a cognitive behavioral framework.
In a busy, hectic, fast-paced world, we sometimes find ourselves overwhelmed and needing somewhere safe and calm to breathe. Therapy can be a space where someone finds the time to relieve the stress of work, family/relationships and other psychosocial issues related to life in today's world. By addressing these needs, the person can become whole again and live the satisfying life they want. For consultation or to schedule an appointment, I can be reached at 614-354-7006.
(614) 665-8194 View (614) 665-8194
Photo of Christen Skonoski, LCDC , Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Christen Skonoski
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCDC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43215  (Online Only)
Do you feel alone, scared, or distressed about how gambling, gaming, pornography, sex or going online makes you feel? Does it feel like you've lost some or all control and are feeling depression, anxiety, isolation, or despair? As a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor - III with years of experience providing behavioral and substance use addiction treatment as well as mental health care I am dedicated to offering compassionate and warm support to individuals looking for support. My mission is to empower my clients to overcome their struggles and achieve lasting recovery through a personalized and holistic approach.
Do you feel alone, scared, or distressed about how gambling, gaming, pornography, sex or going online makes you feel? Does it feel like you've lost some or all control and are feeling depression, anxiety, isolation, or despair? As a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor - III with years of experience providing behavioral and substance use addiction treatment as well as mental health care I am dedicated to offering compassionate and warm support to individuals looking for support. My mission is to empower my clients to overcome their struggles and achieve lasting recovery through a personalized and holistic approach.
(614) 820-1019 View (614) 820-1019
Photo of Eric Eghan - New Hope Therapists, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
New Hope Therapists
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43222
I offer Individual, couple, and family counseling, CANS assessments, IHBT, CPST, Substance Use Assessments & referrals, In-Home Senior/Hospice Therapeutic Services.
Hi there! My name is Eric Eghan, I am a therapist at New Hope Therapists. I am inspired by my faith and believe that a tender plant can shoot and blossom from a dry ground. I believe in the harvest no matter how dry the ground may be. I believe healing and growth can occur no matter how difficult the situation may be. I believe a new you can emerge from the same old you. I am hopeful about your situation just as a tree has hope that it will sprout again when cut off. I keep hoping even when there is no reason for hope.
I offer Individual, couple, and family counseling, CANS assessments, IHBT, CPST, Substance Use Assessments & referrals, In-Home Senior/Hospice Therapeutic Services.
Hi there! My name is Eric Eghan, I am a therapist at New Hope Therapists. I am inspired by my faith and believe that a tender plant can shoot and blossom from a dry ground. I believe in the harvest no matter how dry the ground may be. I believe healing and growth can occur no matter how difficult the situation may be. I believe a new you can emerge from the same old you. I am hopeful about your situation just as a tree has hope that it will sprout again when cut off. I keep hoping even when there is no reason for hope.
(380) 212-2755 View (380) 212-2755
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.