Substance Use Therapists in Gainesville, FL

Photo of Emily Westerholm, MS, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emily Westerholm
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32606
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client is tough. Perhaps someone that has never trusted a counselor before? Since I have worked in prisons and jails the last decade, I expect resistance, mistrust, and skepticism. Previously, I worked as a substance use counselor. In that field I learned that there are many pathways and versions towards recovery and change. None of them are wrong. If you are willing to be a little uncomfortable, lets do that together. Life can be messy, cruel, and hilarious. I'll grab a paddle and jump in the boat of uncertainty with you.
My ideal client is tough. Perhaps someone that has never trusted a counselor before? Since I have worked in prisons and jails the last decade, I expect resistance, mistrust, and skepticism. Previously, I worked as a substance use counselor. In that field I learned that there are many pathways and versions towards recovery and change. None of them are wrong. If you are willing to be a little uncomfortable, lets do that together. Life can be messy, cruel, and hilarious. I'll grab a paddle and jump in the boat of uncertainty with you.
(352) 290-4365 View (352) 290-4365
Photo of Lori Lynn McGruder, EdS, NCC, LMHC, CIT, QS, Counselor
Lori Lynn McGruder
Counselor, EdS, NCC, LMHC, CIT, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32606  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to stop drinking/using or have you relapsed again? Are you just not happy with your life? It might be best... for us to work together on finding you some relief. Relief from the anxiety of trying to control your substance use or from feeling sad and alone. We can develop a plan for you to feel in control of your life, connected to others, and happy. You are not alone. Anymore.
Are you struggling to stop drinking/using or have you relapsed again? Are you just not happy with your life? It might be best... for us to work together on finding you some relief. Relief from the anxiety of trying to control your substance use or from feeling sad and alone. We can develop a plan for you to feel in control of your life, connected to others, and happy. You are not alone. Anymore.
(352) 995-2742 View (352) 995-2742
Photo of Nicolas J Comeau, PsyD, Psychologist
Nicolas J Comeau
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32605
I provide individual psychotherapy for adults struggling with depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety, OCD, trauma-related disorders, substance use disorders, and personality disorders.
Emotional pain has a way of making life feel narrow and less enjoyable. In therapy, I help clients to focus on what gives them joy, excitement, and meaning in life, and to identify valued goals. As clients get closer their goals, unforeseen obstacles can crop up, and these roadblocks may cause stress or hardship. I offer a variety of coping skills to help people overcome such obstacles. These skills include stress management, mindfulness, assertiveness, confronting fears, and many, many more!
I provide individual psychotherapy for adults struggling with depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety, OCD, trauma-related disorders, substance use disorders, and personality disorders.
Emotional pain has a way of making life feel narrow and less enjoyable. In therapy, I help clients to focus on what gives them joy, excitement, and meaning in life, and to identify valued goals. As clients get closer their goals, unforeseen obstacles can crop up, and these roadblocks may cause stress or hardship. I offer a variety of coping skills to help people overcome such obstacles. These skills include stress management, mindfulness, assertiveness, confronting fears, and many, many more!
(779) 242-2640 View (779) 242-2640
Photo of Laura Templeton, MEd, EdS, LMHC, Counselor
Laura Templeton
Counselor, MEd, EdS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32601
I am available to help individuals live the life that they want. I work with folks to assist in building resilience and coping skills. I have specialized training in somatic and DBT practices. My background includes crisis and suicidal ideation, trauma, and substance use. I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist. I come from a place of respect and unconditional positive regard when working with folks.
I am available to help individuals live the life that they want. I work with folks to assist in building resilience and coping skills. I have specialized training in somatic and DBT practices. My background includes crisis and suicidal ideation, trauma, and substance use. I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist. I come from a place of respect and unconditional positive regard when working with folks.
(352) 280-3623 View (352) 280-3623
Photo of Burton David Burt - Recovery Awareness LLC, LMHC, MCAP, SAP, SAE, Counselor
Recovery Awareness LLC
Counselor, LMHC, MCAP, SAP, SAE
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32653
An ideal client recognizes their substance use has become problematic and is motivated to make positive changes. They may face physical, emotional, and interpersonal issues and feel overwhelmed. Services they may require include diagnosis, counseling, group therapy, and referrals for additional resources. Their goals may include abstinence, physical/mental health improvement, relationship repair, and healthy coping strategies. Motivations for seeking help vary, but clients must have a desire for a fulfilling life free from negative consequences of substance abuse. Support and empowerment are essential in the journey to recovery.
An ideal client recognizes their substance use has become problematic and is motivated to make positive changes. They may face physical, emotional, and interpersonal issues and feel overwhelmed. Services they may require include diagnosis, counseling, group therapy, and referrals for additional resources. Their goals may include abstinence, physical/mental health improvement, relationship repair, and healthy coping strategies. Motivations for seeking help vary, but clients must have a desire for a fulfilling life free from negative consequences of substance abuse. Support and empowerment are essential in the journey to recovery.
(352) 415-2472 View (352) 415-2472
Photo of Chris Kazachkova, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Kazachkova
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32653
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy can be immensely helpful whether you are struggling in your relationships, at work, with low mood, or anxiety. I enjoy helping people treat a multitude of concerns such as anxiety and depression, stress, relationship issues, trauma, life transitions, addiction/substance use concerns, perinatal mental health, and pregnancy loss. Sessions will be individually tailored to the needs and expectations of each unique client. I use a variety of therapeutic interventions during my sessions. I am comfortable meeting you where you currently are in order for us to move forward together.
Therapy can be immensely helpful whether you are struggling in your relationships, at work, with low mood, or anxiety. I enjoy helping people treat a multitude of concerns such as anxiety and depression, stress, relationship issues, trauma, life transitions, addiction/substance use concerns, perinatal mental health, and pregnancy loss. Sessions will be individually tailored to the needs and expectations of each unique client. I use a variety of therapeutic interventions during my sessions. I am comfortable meeting you where you currently are in order for us to move forward together.
(352) 612-3868 View (352) 612-3868
Photo of Julia Murchison, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Murchison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32653  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Florida working as a clinical therapist. My focus is helping people learn to feel safe in their own body while addressing issues of stress, anxiety, depression, grief, complex trauma, and substance use.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Florida working as a clinical therapist. My focus is helping people learn to feel safe in their own body while addressing issues of stress, anxiety, depression, grief, complex trauma, and substance use.
(352) 309-2177 View (352) 309-2177
Photo of Hannah Warwick Dykehouse, EdS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hannah Warwick Dykehouse
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32601
I enjoy helping clients break free from anxiety and worry, explore patterns of behavior and relationships, and process traumatic experiences. I have worked in residential substance use treatment, crisis intervention, and systemic family therapy. My work is greatly influenced and informed by Existential, Feminist, and Narrative therapy approaches, and I understand that human problems and relationships must be considered within systems and social contexts. I have experienced my own healing in talk therapy and strongly believe in the effectiveness of the therapeutic relationship in finding new ways to relate to ourselves and others.
I enjoy helping clients break free from anxiety and worry, explore patterns of behavior and relationships, and process traumatic experiences. I have worked in residential substance use treatment, crisis intervention, and systemic family therapy. My work is greatly influenced and informed by Existential, Feminist, and Narrative therapy approaches, and I understand that human problems and relationships must be considered within systems and social contexts. I have experienced my own healing in talk therapy and strongly believe in the effectiveness of the therapeutic relationship in finding new ways to relate to ourselves and others.
(352) 310-3639 View (352) 310-3639
Photo of Victoria Jacobs, LMHC, Counselor
Victoria Jacobs
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32603  (Online Only)
I predominately focus on anxiety, depression, adjustment to life transitions, stress management, college struggles, substance use, and relationships.
I am a dedicated mental health therapist with a passion for helping individuals navigate life's challenges with resilience and confidence. I specialize in working with adults over the age of 18 and college students. I believe that every person possesses the inner strength to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential, and I am committed to being your guide on this transformative journey. I believe in the power of collaboration and empathy. I work to create a warm, non-judgmental space where clients can openly explore their thoughts, feelings, and concerns.
I predominately focus on anxiety, depression, adjustment to life transitions, stress management, college struggles, substance use, and relationships.
I am a dedicated mental health therapist with a passion for helping individuals navigate life's challenges with resilience and confidence. I specialize in working with adults over the age of 18 and college students. I believe that every person possesses the inner strength to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential, and I am committed to being your guide on this transformative journey. I believe in the power of collaboration and empathy. I work to create a warm, non-judgmental space where clients can openly explore their thoughts, feelings, and concerns.
(904) 615-8985 View (904) 615-8985
Photo of Alexandra Englert, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexandra Englert
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32607
Hi! I am Ali, a Licensed Mental Health, and Marriage and Family Therapist! I am extremely passionate about helping people work through challenges, meet goals and grow. I have worked with individuals, both adults and adolescents, couples, and families in areas such as eating disorders, substance use, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and transitions.
Hi! I am Ali, a Licensed Mental Health, and Marriage and Family Therapist! I am extremely passionate about helping people work through challenges, meet goals and grow. I have worked with individuals, both adults and adolescents, couples, and families in areas such as eating disorders, substance use, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and transitions.
(321) 805-3263 View (321) 805-3263
Photo of Nicholas Ciancioso, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Nicholas Ciancioso
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32601  (Online Only)
I have worked with a variety of populations, including foster care children, incarcerated teenage males, adults with substance use issues, adults with chronic mental health issues, college students, and adolescents with eating disorders.
Greetings and thank you for giving me the opportunity to describe my therapy practice! My approach is one where I see myself as a guide alongside you in your journey toward reaching your goals. You are the expert on yourself! I see my role in our therapeutic relationship as being able to help aid you in feeling understood, gaining insight, and learning new skills to manage the challenges you are going through and will go through in the future.
I have worked with a variety of populations, including foster care children, incarcerated teenage males, adults with substance use issues, adults with chronic mental health issues, college students, and adolescents with eating disorders.
Greetings and thank you for giving me the opportunity to describe my therapy practice! My approach is one where I see myself as a guide alongside you in your journey toward reaching your goals. You are the expert on yourself! I see my role in our therapeutic relationship as being able to help aid you in feeling understood, gaining insight, and learning new skills to manage the challenges you are going through and will go through in the future.
(754) 253-5143 View (754) 253-5143
Photo of Felicia Megdal, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Felicia Megdal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32611  (Online Only)
I am licensed clinical social worker qualified to practice in Florida, California, and Tennessee. My style includes a dynamic, solution-focused approach to help adults address the sources of persistent stress, emotional overload, and relationship difficulties. I possess additional training in treating financial disorders, substance use, compulsive sexual behavior, grief and loss, relationship conflict, and depression and anxiety.
I am licensed clinical social worker qualified to practice in Florida, California, and Tennessee. My style includes a dynamic, solution-focused approach to help adults address the sources of persistent stress, emotional overload, and relationship difficulties. I possess additional training in treating financial disorders, substance use, compulsive sexual behavior, grief and loss, relationship conflict, and depression and anxiety.
(213) 722-3825 View (213) 722-3825
Photo of Jim Segal, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jim Segal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32606
People come to counseling because they want something to be different in their lives. Experience has taught me that I must create a safe and supportive setting. And I must be skillful and respectful in order for positive and lasting change to occur. In over thirty years of practice I have seen amazing growth and transformation in the clients with whom I have worked.
People come to counseling because they want something to be different in their lives. Experience has taught me that I must create a safe and supportive setting. And I must be skillful and respectful in order for positive and lasting change to occur. In over thirty years of practice I have seen amazing growth and transformation in the clients with whom I have worked.
(352) 436-1438 View (352) 436-1438
Photo of Steven Pinkert - Buprenorphine Treatment Centers Inc, MD
Buprenorphine Treatment Centers Inc
MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32601
All of our services are outpatient - office based treatment. Our patients are initially seen to determine if they are suffering from Opioid Use Disorder and if they are appropriate for Buprenorphine Treatment with Subutex or Suboxone. Patients undergo an induction and stabilization period that will require more frequent visits but our expectation is that patients can be stable with monthly medication visits. In addition our patients attend a group therapy session once a month or more frequently if they are having difficulty with compliance. Patients are given random drug screens and pills are counted at least at each medication visit.
All of our services are outpatient - office based treatment. Our patients are initially seen to determine if they are suffering from Opioid Use Disorder and if they are appropriate for Buprenorphine Treatment with Subutex or Suboxone. Patients undergo an induction and stabilization period that will require more frequent visits but our expectation is that patients can be stable with monthly medication visits. In addition our patients attend a group therapy session once a month or more frequently if they are having difficulty with compliance. Patients are given random drug screens and pills are counted at least at each medication visit.
(352) 280-3508 View (352) 280-3508
Photo of Dr. Blair German, PsyD
Dr. Blair German
Provisional Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32605
I specialize in creating a nurturing and restorative environment to help you discover the underlying causes of issues you may struggle with such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and relationship struggles. I strive to create an atmosphere of trust and safety where you feel accepted and know your thoughts and feelings are heard and supported. I seek to affirm your personal identity and help you develop a sense of agency and power based on your cultural, gender, and self-identity.
I specialize in creating a nurturing and restorative environment to help you discover the underlying causes of issues you may struggle with such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and relationship struggles. I strive to create an atmosphere of trust and safety where you feel accepted and know your thoughts and feelings are heard and supported. I seek to affirm your personal identity and help you develop a sense of agency and power based on your cultural, gender, and self-identity.
(352) 706-5521 View (352) 706-5521
Photo of Lukose Jacob, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lukose Jacob
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32608
Welcome! If you're seeking support, rest assured, I'm here to assist you. My therapeutic approach is characterized by warmth, non-judgment, and encouragement, creating a safe space for you to express yourself openly and freely. I specialize in working with individuals facing a range of challenges, including Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Abuse, low self-esteem, grief and loss, and relationship issues. Together, we'll embark on a journey to explore the issues impacting your life, leveraging your inherent strengths while equipping you with new skills to empower you in making healthy choices and achieving your desired outcomes.
Welcome! If you're seeking support, rest assured, I'm here to assist you. My therapeutic approach is characterized by warmth, non-judgment, and encouragement, creating a safe space for you to express yourself openly and freely. I specialize in working with individuals facing a range of challenges, including Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Abuse, low self-esteem, grief and loss, and relationship issues. Together, we'll embark on a journey to explore the issues impacting your life, leveraging your inherent strengths while equipping you with new skills to empower you in making healthy choices and achieving your desired outcomes.
(352) 559-9173 View (352) 559-9173
Photo of Dwain Allen, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Dwain Allen
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32606
I look forward to using 25 years of counseling experience to help others through the life challenges they face. I've had the opportunity to work with professionals, groups, individuals, couples and student athletes at the University of Florida over the last 14 years. I have also had the pleasure of working with professional athletes in the NBA, NFL, MLB, and U.S. and International Olympic teams. Additionally, I enjoy culture and team building through group and individual development.
I look forward to using 25 years of counseling experience to help others through the life challenges they face. I've had the opportunity to work with professionals, groups, individuals, couples and student athletes at the University of Florida over the last 14 years. I have also had the pleasure of working with professional athletes in the NBA, NFL, MLB, and U.S. and International Olympic teams. Additionally, I enjoy culture and team building through group and individual development.
(352) 290-5046 View (352) 290-5046
Photo of Jessika Rutledge, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Jessika Rutledge
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32609  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I help individuals, families, and couples who want to feel satisfied in their connection with their partner, mediate thoughts and identify thinking errors, and help manage anxiety and sadness to perform better in their lives. I strive to serve as a guide while supporting you with healing from past hurts, inter-generational trauma, and systematic pressures by getting to the root of your restrictive core beliefs that guide your behavior, how you see yourself, and perceive life and relationships. I provide a safe and judgment free atmosphere which allows for transparency, empowerment, cultural appreciation, and validation.
I help individuals, families, and couples who want to feel satisfied in their connection with their partner, mediate thoughts and identify thinking errors, and help manage anxiety and sadness to perform better in their lives. I strive to serve as a guide while supporting you with healing from past hurts, inter-generational trauma, and systematic pressures by getting to the root of your restrictive core beliefs that guide your behavior, how you see yourself, and perceive life and relationships. I provide a safe and judgment free atmosphere which allows for transparency, empowerment, cultural appreciation, and validation.
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Photo of David Beasley, LMHC, Counselor
David Beasley
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32606
I provide a supportive, caring place for individuals and families to make positive changes in their relationships, personal health, life transitions, and issues with trauma. Whether you are struggling with lack of motivation, anxiety, stress, frustration, grief, substance abuse issues, or difficulty managing your teen, I offer strategies for real change. Clients have described me as genuine, trustworthy, knowledgeable, caring, and someone who models living with integrity.
I provide a supportive, caring place for individuals and families to make positive changes in their relationships, personal health, life transitions, and issues with trauma. Whether you are struggling with lack of motivation, anxiety, stress, frustration, grief, substance abuse issues, or difficulty managing your teen, I offer strategies for real change. Clients have described me as genuine, trustworthy, knowledgeable, caring, and someone who models living with integrity.
(352) 578-2949 View (352) 578-2949
Photo of Billy Alan Palmer, PhD, Psychologist
Billy Alan Palmer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32601
Compassionate Psychological Support: Everyone needs help sometimes, but not everyone has the support they need. I am here to provide that support.
Compassionate Psychological Support: Everyone needs help sometimes, but not everyone has the support they need. I am here to provide that support.
(352) 706-5775 View (352) 706-5775

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.