Substance Use Therapists in Prince Georges County, MD

Photo of Delicia Williams, CAC-AD, MACP, MACMHC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Delicia Williams
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CAC-AD, MACP, MACMHC
Verified Verified
Riverdale, MD 20737  (Online Only)
Licensed Drug & Alcohol Counselor and Pre-LCPC in MD; Intern with C & A Behavioral Healthcare Services. Supporting adults, adolescents, and children to cope with substance use disorder and all its challenges is a proud arena I have served for over 23 years. Utilizing various counseling techniques to support treatment is standard. Treating clients with respect, empathy, and positive regard is priority. Providing Behavioral Health Crisis Management, Suicide Prevention, Trauma-Focused care wrapped in the elements of substance use with DBT and CBT engagements aligned with management care across the lifespan.
Licensed Drug & Alcohol Counselor and Pre-LCPC in MD; Intern with C & A Behavioral Healthcare Services. Supporting adults, adolescents, and children to cope with substance use disorder and all its challenges is a proud arena I have served for over 23 years. Utilizing various counseling techniques to support treatment is standard. Treating clients with respect, empathy, and positive regard is priority. Providing Behavioral Health Crisis Management, Suicide Prevention, Trauma-Focused care wrapped in the elements of substance use with DBT and CBT engagements aligned with management care across the lifespan.
(240) 474-0780 View (240) 474-0780
Photo of Esther O Popoola, LCADC, LMSW, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Esther O Popoola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCADC, LMSW, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lanham, MD 20706
If you're ready to break free from the constraints of feeling stuck, enhance your relationships, or address substance use concerns, schedule a consultation today.
If you're a man or woman feeling stuck, grappling with relationship issues, or facing challenges related to substance use, you're in the right place. I specialize in providing support and guidance tailored to your unique journey. Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationships, be it with a partner, family member, or yourself? I offer a safe and non-judgmental space to explore and address issues such as communication, attachment concerns, or navigating through significant life changes like divorce or infidelity. For those dealing with substance use issues and DOT violations, I bring a wealth of experience and understanding.
If you're ready to break free from the constraints of feeling stuck, enhance your relationships, or address substance use concerns, schedule a consultation today.
If you're a man or woman feeling stuck, grappling with relationship issues, or facing challenges related to substance use, you're in the right place. I specialize in providing support and guidance tailored to your unique journey. Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationships, be it with a partner, family member, or yourself? I offer a safe and non-judgmental space to explore and address issues such as communication, attachment concerns, or navigating through significant life changes like divorce or infidelity. For those dealing with substance use issues and DOT violations, I bring a wealth of experience and understanding.
(240) 202-2289 View (240) 202-2289
Photo of Massimo Scano, LPC, CAC II , CSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Massimo Scano
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAC II , CSAC
Verified Verified
Mount Rainier, MD 20712
After several years in the Italian Navy and then working as a Registered Nurse, I received training in Counseling Psychology and worked for many years in community-based outpatient settings and private practice where I help people address their issues with depression, anxiety, and substance use.
In my practice I am guided by the belief that change is possible and that every person has the capacity for healthy growth and development but may at times need help in accessing inner resources for positive change. I believe a therapist-client relationship that is characterized by empathy, curiosity, acceptance and caring is what facilitates the therapeutic process. I aim to provide an environment where my clients feel safe and free to explore their feelings, thoughts, needs and goals - an environment where we can work together at understanding what is keeping them from living a more fulfilling life.
After several years in the Italian Navy and then working as a Registered Nurse, I received training in Counseling Psychology and worked for many years in community-based outpatient settings and private practice where I help people address their issues with depression, anxiety, and substance use.
In my practice I am guided by the belief that change is possible and that every person has the capacity for healthy growth and development but may at times need help in accessing inner resources for positive change. I believe a therapist-client relationship that is characterized by empathy, curiosity, acceptance and caring is what facilitates the therapeutic process. I aim to provide an environment where my clients feel safe and free to explore their feelings, thoughts, needs and goals - an environment where we can work together at understanding what is keeping them from living a more fulfilling life.
(202) 618-5440 View (202) 618-5440
Photo of Laura Miller - Laura Miller - Counseling on Call, LGPC
Laura Miller - Counseling on Call
Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Bowie, MD 20716
Hi, I'm Laura! My therapeutic approach includes utilizing a person-centered and CBT approach. I have experience working with families, couples, children and adolescents and adults of all ages. I specialize in mood disorders, depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, crisis counseling, child behavior and play therapy. My goal is to provide a safe and healing space to work through and overcome challenges by focusing on your needs and strengths. Please do not hesitate to reach out on any day or at any time to schedule!
Hi, I'm Laura! My therapeutic approach includes utilizing a person-centered and CBT approach. I have experience working with families, couples, children and adolescents and adults of all ages. I specialize in mood disorders, depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, crisis counseling, child behavior and play therapy. My goal is to provide a safe and healing space to work through and overcome challenges by focusing on your needs and strengths. Please do not hesitate to reach out on any day or at any time to schedule!
(443) 888-0981 View (443) 888-0981
Photo of Ceyonna Lewis, MA, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ceyonna Lewis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Upper Marlboro, MD 20772  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I am Ceyonna and I am a licensed therapist in Virginia and Maryland. I received my master's degree in professional counseling from Liberty University in 2019. My specialties and areas of interest include perinatal mental health, substance use, crisis support, anxiety, depression, peer and family conflict, and behavioral concerns. Additionally, I have experience working with children and young adults in individual and group settings, as well as family counseling. In life, we face challenges that seem too difficult to handle and begin to experience unpleasant emotion; however, there is hope.
Hi, I am Ceyonna and I am a licensed therapist in Virginia and Maryland. I received my master's degree in professional counseling from Liberty University in 2019. My specialties and areas of interest include perinatal mental health, substance use, crisis support, anxiety, depression, peer and family conflict, and behavioral concerns. Additionally, I have experience working with children and young adults in individual and group settings, as well as family counseling. In life, we face challenges that seem too difficult to handle and begin to experience unpleasant emotion; however, there is hope.
(540) 744-3841 View (540) 744-3841
Photo of Rachel Leigh Wills - ADDvantage Counseling, LLC. , LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
ADDvantage Counseling, LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Riverdale, MD 20737
We are passionate about person-centered, customized counseling. We're licensed in MD, VA, DC, DE and OH. and see clients both virtually and in-person (based on counselor's preference). Do you have ADHD and are looking for a better way to work with it? Or are you seeking an ADHD evaluation? Maybe you're in recovery or are concerned that your drinking or substance use is a problem, or you're struggling with low self-esteem; poor work/life balance; major life transitions; personality disorders or trauma. Some clinicians at our practice also see children, families and seniors.
We are passionate about person-centered, customized counseling. We're licensed in MD, VA, DC, DE and OH. and see clients both virtually and in-person (based on counselor's preference). Do you have ADHD and are looking for a better way to work with it? Or are you seeking an ADHD evaluation? Maybe you're in recovery or are concerned that your drinking or substance use is a problem, or you're struggling with low self-esteem; poor work/life balance; major life transitions; personality disorders or trauma. Some clinicians at our practice also see children, families and seniors.
(240) 690-5784 View (240) 690-5784
Photo of Ernestine Stewart, LCMHC, LCPC, LCAS, CCS, QS, Counselor
Ernestine Stewart
Counselor, LCMHC, LCPC, LCAS, CCS, QS
Verified Verified
Bowie, MD 20715  (Online Only)
Collectively, I have 13 years of experience with mental health and substance use disorders.
Are you a caretaker experiencing depression, stress or resentment towards your loved one? Have you been actively using substances or had a recent slip in use after years of being in recovery? Do you find yourself engaging in emotional eating or caloric restriction? Are you in need of emotional support after terminating a pregnancy? Has something occurred that caused you to start anew? Do you need a supportive ear that will listen and allow you to express your thoughts and feelings? Are you seeking skills to help you cope with everyday issues? Asking for help can be scary, but trying to go it alone can be even scarier.
Collectively, I have 13 years of experience with mental health and substance use disorders.
Are you a caretaker experiencing depression, stress or resentment towards your loved one? Have you been actively using substances or had a recent slip in use after years of being in recovery? Do you find yourself engaging in emotional eating or caloric restriction? Are you in need of emotional support after terminating a pregnancy? Has something occurred that caused you to start anew? Do you need a supportive ear that will listen and allow you to express your thoughts and feelings? Are you seeking skills to help you cope with everyday issues? Asking for help can be scary, but trying to go it alone can be even scarier.
(336) 585-7091 View (336) 585-7091
Photo of Angelina Oputa, LCPC, Counselor
Angelina Oputa
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lanham, MD 20706  (Online Only)
Together we can identify tools to address symptoms of anxiety, depression, and substance use.
Are you feeling frustrated, irritable, and mad at the world? Are you ready to feel at peace, and proud of the way you are living your everyday life? We all have challenges in life, and sometimes additional support is necessary. No matter how small or overwhelming the challenge I approach treatment from a place of non-judgment to identify the root of problems as opposed to offering a temporary fix. During our first session, I will take time to get to know you. I will ask about your past experiences with therapy, and what you want to accomplish during our time together.
Together we can identify tools to address symptoms of anxiety, depression, and substance use.
Are you feeling frustrated, irritable, and mad at the world? Are you ready to feel at peace, and proud of the way you are living your everyday life? We all have challenges in life, and sometimes additional support is necessary. No matter how small or overwhelming the challenge I approach treatment from a place of non-judgment to identify the root of problems as opposed to offering a temporary fix. During our first session, I will take time to get to know you. I will ask about your past experiences with therapy, and what you want to accomplish during our time together.
(301) 835-2471 View (301) 835-2471
Photo of Melissa Stephenson, MHS-C, LCPC, LPC
Melissa Stephenson
MHS-C, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Largo, MD 20774
"I Believe In Life On Life Terms" that mainly entailed the provision of counseling services to consumers of various ages in the homes/community reporting a history of trauma, abuse, economic poverty, homeless, lack of adult guidance, substance use that precipitated unhealthy learned behaviors to survive. The consumer’s needs were individualized based on the uniqueness of each personality and life dynamics. Within the therapeutic process and environment, the need was a genuine, safe environment of emotional support and acceptance towards desired changes.
"I Believe In Life On Life Terms" that mainly entailed the provision of counseling services to consumers of various ages in the homes/community reporting a history of trauma, abuse, economic poverty, homeless, lack of adult guidance, substance use that precipitated unhealthy learned behaviors to survive. The consumer’s needs were individualized based on the uniqueness of each personality and life dynamics. Within the therapeutic process and environment, the need was a genuine, safe environment of emotional support and acceptance towards desired changes.
(240) 201-2966 View (240) 201-2966
Photo of Valerie A Kabba, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valerie A Kabba
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bowie, MD 20720  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
f you are looking for non-judgmental, emphatic, and compassionate support, I am here to help. I am dedicated in creating a safe space where we can work together to help meet your needs. I'm a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with experience in helping children, adults, and families in addressing diverse mental health, substance use and social life issues. I have extensive experience in working in crisis management as it relates to mental health, substance use, traumatic events, chronic pain and other health related issues. I also facilitate family team meetings to ensure continuity of care.
f you are looking for non-judgmental, emphatic, and compassionate support, I am here to help. I am dedicated in creating a safe space where we can work together to help meet your needs. I'm a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with experience in helping children, adults, and families in addressing diverse mental health, substance use and social life issues. I have extensive experience in working in crisis management as it relates to mental health, substance use, traumatic events, chronic pain and other health related issues. I also facilitate family team meetings to ensure continuity of care.
(947) 800-4832 View (947) 800-4832
Photo of Nekia Lee, LCPC, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Nekia Lee
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laurel, MD 20707  (Online Only)
I work with individuals who have encountered crises and trauma, as well as those dealing with depression, anxiety, substance use and behavioral issues.
Ever feel like you're stuck on the same path or the wrong path? Many of us go through times like these in our lifetime. Having a Licensed Counselor to help you find ways to move forward just might be the answer you’re looking for. I'm here to help you identify obstacles in your path, and to feel empowered to navigate those obstacles effectively. There are many strategies and coping skills that we can work on together to find what works best for you.
I work with individuals who have encountered crises and trauma, as well as those dealing with depression, anxiety, substance use and behavioral issues.
Ever feel like you're stuck on the same path or the wrong path? Many of us go through times like these in our lifetime. Having a Licensed Counselor to help you find ways to move forward just might be the answer you’re looking for. I'm here to help you identify obstacles in your path, and to feel empowered to navigate those obstacles effectively. There are many strategies and coping skills that we can work on together to find what works best for you.
(240) 917-2062 View (240) 917-2062
Photo of Samantha Knox, LPC, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samantha Knox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Largo, MD 20774
I have wide array of experience, which is not limited to depression/ anxiety, geriatrics/ end of life care, aging out of foster care, substance use disorders, severe mental illness, grief/ loss, trauma, and adjustment related issues.
Do you find yourself feeling hopeless or depressed? Are you tired of being in the same old rut, day in and day out? Relationship issues have you feeling down? Are you trying to make sense of your own spiritual path? As a therapist, my goal is to support and empower you to meet your full potential. I like to use Adlerian and Cognitive Behavioral Techniques to support you in identifying and working through those irrational thoughts that often keep us stagnant. The goal is for us to identify the underlying cause, and stop if from continuing to wreak havoc in your emotional life.
I have wide array of experience, which is not limited to depression/ anxiety, geriatrics/ end of life care, aging out of foster care, substance use disorders, severe mental illness, grief/ loss, trauma, and adjustment related issues.
Do you find yourself feeling hopeless or depressed? Are you tired of being in the same old rut, day in and day out? Relationship issues have you feeling down? Are you trying to make sense of your own spiritual path? As a therapist, my goal is to support and empower you to meet your full potential. I like to use Adlerian and Cognitive Behavioral Techniques to support you in identifying and working through those irrational thoughts that often keep us stagnant. The goal is for us to identify the underlying cause, and stop if from continuing to wreak havoc in your emotional life.
(202) 335-4299 View (202) 335-4299
Photo of Simran Puri, Pre-Licensed Professional
Simran Puri
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
College Park, MD 20740  (Online Only)
I support clients in gaining insight, regulating emotions, exploring their thoughts and making conscious choices to manage or improve their mental health. We'll work through exploring identity, sadness, worry, substance use, overwhelm, caretaker stress, mood changes, shame, worry, depression, concentration, transitions/adjustment, social comparison and pressure, relationships, trauma and more. We'll complete a treatment plan/goals to guide our process. We will explore how and why you adopted certain cognitive, behavioral and emotional patterns and identify new skills to manage or eliminate symptoms.
I support clients in gaining insight, regulating emotions, exploring their thoughts and making conscious choices to manage or improve their mental health. We'll work through exploring identity, sadness, worry, substance use, overwhelm, caretaker stress, mood changes, shame, worry, depression, concentration, transitions/adjustment, social comparison and pressure, relationships, trauma and more. We'll complete a treatment plan/goals to guide our process. We will explore how and why you adopted certain cognitive, behavioral and emotional patterns and identify new skills to manage or eliminate symptoms.
(202) 931-5895 View (202) 931-5895
Photo of Jodi Dively, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jodi Dively
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bowie, MD 20715
In addition, I believe in providing integrated services for both mental health and substance use disorders for best possible outcomes.
I enjoy working with individuals and couples who have a desire to improve their quality of life through personal growth and behavior change. I utilize evidenced-based and best practices to address the underlying factors of an emotional problem, regardless of what emotions are most distressing to you - anxiety, anger, depression, shame, loss, distrust, guilt. I am here to assist you in your journey for improved health and well-being.
In addition, I believe in providing integrated services for both mental health and substance use disorders for best possible outcomes.
I enjoy working with individuals and couples who have a desire to improve their quality of life through personal growth and behavior change. I utilize evidenced-based and best practices to address the underlying factors of an emotional problem, regardless of what emotions are most distressing to you - anxiety, anger, depression, shame, loss, distrust, guilt. I am here to assist you in your journey for improved health and well-being.
(410) 648-2945 View (410) 648-2945
Photo of Allison Sugarman, MPP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Allison Sugarman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
College Park, MD 20742  (Online Only)
I have experience working with a range of concerns, including relationship-related issues, sexual trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders.
Every individual carries a unique story, and as a therapist-in-training, I am deeply honored to walk alongside you on your journey. I understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, and seeking support is a courageous and important step. I am here to listen, support, and guide you through these difficult times. Together, we will embark on a collaborative journey to understand your thoughts and feelings, identify patterns that may no longer serve you, and develop effective coping strategies that empower you to move forward with resilience and confidence.
I have experience working with a range of concerns, including relationship-related issues, sexual trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders.
Every individual carries a unique story, and as a therapist-in-training, I am deeply honored to walk alongside you on your journey. I understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, and seeking support is a courageous and important step. I am here to listen, support, and guide you through these difficult times. Together, we will embark on a collaborative journey to understand your thoughts and feelings, identify patterns that may no longer serve you, and develop effective coping strategies that empower you to move forward with resilience and confidence.
(646) 917-8317 View (646) 917-8317
Photo of Onyeka Onyekwere, LGPC, Counselor
Onyeka Onyekwere
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bowie, MD 20715
Adults from varying cultural and identity dimensions work with me to explore and implements strategies to manage distress or mental health disorders related to family-of-origin, expectations and responsibilities, persistent worry or procrastination, transitions in education/career or relationships, immigrant identity, grief and loss and trauma. We'll determine how to manage the impact of your experiences and symptoms, thoughts, behaviors, mood and relationship. I administer assessments, diagnose and work with clients to identify ways to manage or eliminate anxiety, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, substance use and more.
Adults from varying cultural and identity dimensions work with me to explore and implements strategies to manage distress or mental health disorders related to family-of-origin, expectations and responsibilities, persistent worry or procrastination, transitions in education/career or relationships, immigrant identity, grief and loss and trauma. We'll determine how to manage the impact of your experiences and symptoms, thoughts, behaviors, mood and relationship. I administer assessments, diagnose and work with clients to identify ways to manage or eliminate anxiety, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, substance use and more.
(301) 701-4662 View (301) 701-4662
Photo of Curtrice Scott, MA, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Curtrice Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Capitol Heights, MD 20731  (Online Only)
I am a seasoned and compassionate therapist licensed in Maryland and Washington, DC. I have worked in the mental health field for over 20 years. I have a passion for helping others improve their overall wellbeing and have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, substance use, parenting issues, career challenges, neglect, physical abuse, trauma, and more. I have also worked with individuals who were formerly incarcerated.
I am a seasoned and compassionate therapist licensed in Maryland and Washington, DC. I have worked in the mental health field for over 20 years. I have a passion for helping others improve their overall wellbeing and have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, substance use, parenting issues, career challenges, neglect, physical abuse, trauma, and more. I have also worked with individuals who were formerly incarcerated.
(202) 873-8990 View (202) 873-8990
Photo of Chelsea Lewis-Wilkins
Chelsea Lewis-Wilkins
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
District Heights, MD 20747  (Online Only)
My 17 years of experience spans various facets of mental health, with a significant focus on substance use treatment, crisis response, and trauma-informed therapy.
Hi, I’m Chelsea Lewis-Wilkins a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor at Alpine Behavioral Health located in Maryland. I believe therapy is not only life changing but life saving. My goal is to provide individuals a safe place to share, heal, and ultimately thrive. I am here to create a comfortable and affirming environment where you can feel seen, heard, and understood. I blend empathy and expertise to help you navigate the challenges you're facing. I believe in the power of a collaborative therapeutic relationship, where we work together to explore your unique experiences.
My 17 years of experience spans various facets of mental health, with a significant focus on substance use treatment, crisis response, and trauma-informed therapy.
Hi, I’m Chelsea Lewis-Wilkins a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor at Alpine Behavioral Health located in Maryland. I believe therapy is not only life changing but life saving. My goal is to provide individuals a safe place to share, heal, and ultimately thrive. I am here to create a comfortable and affirming environment where you can feel seen, heard, and understood. I blend empathy and expertise to help you navigate the challenges you're facing. I believe in the power of a collaborative therapeutic relationship, where we work together to explore your unique experiences.
(443) 241-2175 View (443) 241-2175
Photo of Teveira Hillyer, LPC , LSATP , Licensed Professional Counselor
Teveira Hillyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , LSATP
Verified Verified
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to find enjoyment in life? Feeling burned out? Have you gone through a recent change such as a break up/divorce, career switch, social challenges, parenting adjustments, or substance use issues? Are you dealing with the overwhelming stress of the day to day hustle and bustle that no one talks about? If so, let me be a part of your journey. Together, we can explore various techniques to assist you in finding the value in your existence. Sometimes when we feel overwhelmed in life, we believe we have to go through the trenches. It doesn’t have to be that way. Allow me to help you learn how to manage these stressors!
Are you struggling to find enjoyment in life? Feeling burned out? Have you gone through a recent change such as a break up/divorce, career switch, social challenges, parenting adjustments, or substance use issues? Are you dealing with the overwhelming stress of the day to day hustle and bustle that no one talks about? If so, let me be a part of your journey. Together, we can explore various techniques to assist you in finding the value in your existence. Sometimes when we feel overwhelmed in life, we believe we have to go through the trenches. It doesn’t have to be that way. Allow me to help you learn how to manage these stressors!
(804) 315-3194 View (804) 315-3194
Photo of Phylea Daniels-McCoy - The Center for Therapeutic Change (Board Approved), LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Center for Therapeutic Change (Board Approved)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Lanham, MD 20706  (Online Only)
We have experience with working with individuals who have struggled with grief and loss, poverty issues, trauma, effects of incarceration, anger management, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, life changes and mood disorders.
We commend you for making the brave decision to begin therapy! There are times in our lives when we feel depressed, stressed, overwhelmed or angry but have no one to turn to. Our goal is to offer you a nonjudgmental, safe and confidential space to process your thoughts, feelings and experiences.
We have experience with working with individuals who have struggled with grief and loss, poverty issues, trauma, effects of incarceration, anger management, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, life changes and mood disorders.
We commend you for making the brave decision to begin therapy! There are times in our lives when we feel depressed, stressed, overwhelmed or angry but have no one to turn to. Our goal is to offer you a nonjudgmental, safe and confidential space to process your thoughts, feelings and experiences.
(410) 498-6484 View (410) 498-6484
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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.