Substance Use Therapists in Buffalo, NY

Photo of Ryan Phillips, LMHC, Counselor
Ryan Phillips
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14213  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience with trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar, substance use, OCD and personality disorders.
Throughout the course of life, one is bound to combat various obstacles. With support and guidance, anyone can overcome these difficulties. Beginning the journey of therapy is a monumental step towards wellness. It requires true vulnerability to allow someone to listen to your experiences. This is one of the reasons I thoroughly enjoy providing therapy. My goal is to assist you in achieving wellness through a collaborative approach designed specifically for you.
I have experience with trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar, substance use, OCD and personality disorders.
Throughout the course of life, one is bound to combat various obstacles. With support and guidance, anyone can overcome these difficulties. Beginning the journey of therapy is a monumental step towards wellness. It requires true vulnerability to allow someone to listen to your experiences. This is one of the reasons I thoroughly enjoy providing therapy. My goal is to assist you in achieving wellness through a collaborative approach designed specifically for you.
(716) 403-0996 View (716) 403-0996
Photo of Jenna Gallitto, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna Gallitto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14223  (Online Only)
I have 12 years of clinical experience working in the field of mental health, substance use and domestic and sexual violence.
Accepting new clients! Available for weekday/weeknight telehealth sessions. My goal is to help you become a healthier, happier and more peaceful version of yourself. I work with adults struggling with life transitions, stress management, substance use, relationship issues, anxiety, and PTSD. If you are looking for an extra layer of support during challenging times, I can help you to navigate your feelings, address underlying issues, build healthier habits and change your mindset. Together, we can help you to learn more about yourself so that you can live a life of authenticity.
I have 12 years of clinical experience working in the field of mental health, substance use and domestic and sexual violence.
Accepting new clients! Available for weekday/weeknight telehealth sessions. My goal is to help you become a healthier, happier and more peaceful version of yourself. I work with adults struggling with life transitions, stress management, substance use, relationship issues, anxiety, and PTSD. If you are looking for an extra layer of support during challenging times, I can help you to navigate your feelings, address underlying issues, build healthier habits and change your mindset. Together, we can help you to learn more about yourself so that you can live a life of authenticity.
(716) 706-4948 View (716) 706-4948
Photo of Wadeline Theodore, LMHC, Counselor
Wadeline Theodore
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14203
I specialize in substance use disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD, psychosis and provide trauma informed services.
I am a licensed mental health counselor who understands that life can be challenging and that a positive support system to help find balance is important. I believe that everyone needs a compassionate and non-judgmental atmosphere to explore the feeling of being faced with a brick wall and swimming against the waves. I do and can provide that support. I am experienced in working with adolescents, adults and families. I utilize a holistic, trauma informed approach to help optimize your overall well-being and to strengthen the skills you already have within.
I specialize in substance use disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD, psychosis and provide trauma informed services.
I am a licensed mental health counselor who understands that life can be challenging and that a positive support system to help find balance is important. I believe that everyone needs a compassionate and non-judgmental atmosphere to explore the feeling of being faced with a brick wall and swimming against the waves. I do and can provide that support. I am experienced in working with adolescents, adults and families. I utilize a holistic, trauma informed approach to help optimize your overall well-being and to strengthen the skills you already have within.
(716) 517-4297 View (716) 517-4297
Photo of Patricia A Milks - Ascend Mental Health Counseling PLLC, LMHC, Counselor
Ascend Mental Health Counseling PLLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14222
Ascend Mental Health Counseling offers a Master's level Licensed Mental Health Counselor with certifications in trauma and substance use treatment.
Do you need or want to change your life? It has been my privilege to have facilitated the recovery of many amazing and determined individuals who have been courageous enough to face the challenges of; "Who am I? Where do I belong? What do I do next to find my purpose? If you are confronted with relationship problems, anxiety, depression, career indecision, grief or substance use, I can help you assess your strengths, develop a plan and support you in your journey to find contentment and happiness.
Ascend Mental Health Counseling offers a Master's level Licensed Mental Health Counselor with certifications in trauma and substance use treatment.
Do you need or want to change your life? It has been my privilege to have facilitated the recovery of many amazing and determined individuals who have been courageous enough to face the challenges of; "Who am I? Where do I belong? What do I do next to find my purpose? If you are confronted with relationship problems, anxiety, depression, career indecision, grief or substance use, I can help you assess your strengths, develop a plan and support you in your journey to find contentment and happiness.
(716) 200-4893 View (716) 200-4893
Photo of Rebekah Doweyko - Bardwell Behavioral, LMHC, CEDS-C, Counselor
Bardwell Behavioral
Counselor, LMHC, CEDS-C
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14201  (Online Only)
Offering over 25 years of experience in treating disordered eating/eating disorders, substance use disorders, trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, family conflict and relationship issues, we value and honor diversity, autonomy and inclusivity.
Understanding we are all in different "stages of change", we utilize an eclectic approach to guide you through your own process at your own pace. It is absolutely an honor and our passion to treat those who struggle with mental health issues such as Eating Disorders, Substance Use, trauma, depression, anxiety, family conflict, relationship issues and associated disorders. We employ an individualized approach to therapy in order to empower people to change their lives. In the wise words of Maya Angelou, "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, humor, and style."
Offering over 25 years of experience in treating disordered eating/eating disorders, substance use disorders, trauma, mood disorders, ADHD, family conflict and relationship issues, we value and honor diversity, autonomy and inclusivity.
Understanding we are all in different "stages of change", we utilize an eclectic approach to guide you through your own process at your own pace. It is absolutely an honor and our passion to treat those who struggle with mental health issues such as Eating Disorders, Substance Use, trauma, depression, anxiety, family conflict, relationship issues and associated disorders. We employ an individualized approach to therapy in order to empower people to change their lives. In the wise words of Maya Angelou, "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, humor, and style."
(914) 690-6585 View (914) 690-6585
Photo of Khristopher Decker, LCSW-R, MSW, CISD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Khristopher Decker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, MSW, CISD
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14202
Some areas of specialty include work with people from the LGBTQ+ community, self-esteem issues, depression/anxiety management, addiction/ substance use issues, trauma recovery, gender affirming care/medical procedure evaluations, sex/sexuality related concerns, workplace stress, and couples counseling.
I think you are amazing for taking the next step to create the life you want. If you have been having a challenging time with a new situation or want to change something that you have been experiencing for a while now, counseling can help. The need to work on accepting and affirming ourselves for who we are, managing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and traumatic experiences, family & relationship difficulties, improving our self-esteem, navigating today's stressful world, and managing work/career issues are part of many people's experience at one time or another. I believe we all have the ability to improve our health and lives.
Some areas of specialty include work with people from the LGBTQ+ community, self-esteem issues, depression/anxiety management, addiction/ substance use issues, trauma recovery, gender affirming care/medical procedure evaluations, sex/sexuality related concerns, workplace stress, and couples counseling.
I think you are amazing for taking the next step to create the life you want. If you have been having a challenging time with a new situation or want to change something that you have been experiencing for a while now, counseling can help. The need to work on accepting and affirming ourselves for who we are, managing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and traumatic experiences, family & relationship difficulties, improving our self-esteem, navigating today's stressful world, and managing work/career issues are part of many people's experience at one time or another. I believe we all have the ability to improve our health and lives.
(716) 325-1404 View (716) 325-1404
Photo of Abbie Burd, LMSW
Abbie Burd
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14226
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or past trauma? Struggling in relationships or battling low self-esteem? Many of the women I work with feel stuck in negative thought patterns or disconnected from others. They’re seeking a compassionate, non-judgmental space to explore their thoughts, process emotions, and develop healthier coping strategies. Whether you're navigating severe mental illness, substance use challenges, or co-occurring medical conditions, you deserve the opportunity to reclaim your emotional well-being and live a more empowered life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or past trauma? Struggling in relationships or battling low self-esteem? Many of the women I work with feel stuck in negative thought patterns or disconnected from others. They’re seeking a compassionate, non-judgmental space to explore their thoughts, process emotions, and develop healthier coping strategies. Whether you're navigating severe mental illness, substance use challenges, or co-occurring medical conditions, you deserve the opportunity to reclaim your emotional well-being and live a more empowered life.
(716) 575-3748 View (716) 575-3748
Photo of Tiana Andrews, LMSW
Tiana Andrews
LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14228
If you are weighed down with struggles of anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, substance use, or relationships, we can work together to create a path of change that feels true to your nature.
When your world is feeling heavy, reaching out for support to turn the light on in your internal world is an act of bravery. I strive to create a safe, warm, and honest space to join you in understanding, examining, and clearing a path to connect and express the core of who you are.
If you are weighed down with struggles of anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, substance use, or relationships, we can work together to create a path of change that feels true to your nature.
When your world is feeling heavy, reaching out for support to turn the light on in your internal world is an act of bravery. I strive to create a safe, warm, and honest space to join you in understanding, examining, and clearing a path to connect and express the core of who you are.
(716) 356-4947 View (716) 356-4947
Photo of Katrina Norris, LMHC, Counselor
Katrina Norris
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14225
Are you ready to take back control of your life? Don't be shy. Although I work predominantly with children and adolescents, I truly have a passion for working with anyone who is ready to gain control back. I have worked with clients who have suffered from a variety of mental health and substance use issues. In addition, I have worked with client who are struggling with finances, grief and loss, chronic medical concerns, and relationship stressors. My goal is offer support, teach skills, and work towards achieving their identified goals.
Are you ready to take back control of your life? Don't be shy. Although I work predominantly with children and adolescents, I truly have a passion for working with anyone who is ready to gain control back. I have worked with clients who have suffered from a variety of mental health and substance use issues. In addition, I have worked with client who are struggling with finances, grief and loss, chronic medical concerns, and relationship stressors. My goal is offer support, teach skills, and work towards achieving their identified goals.
(716) 317-4107 View (716) 317-4107
Photo of Tricia Lee Giambelluca, MBA, LMHC, Counselor
Tricia Lee Giambelluca
Counselor, MBA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14219
I’m trained as a co-occurring clinician and can work with individuals with both mental health and substance use disorders.
Counseling can be scary, we often fear what we don’t know and understand, we fight against vulnerability and working toward change of any kind is difficult. Counseling is and should be a partnership, one driven by the client.
I’m trained as a co-occurring clinician and can work with individuals with both mental health and substance use disorders.
Counseling can be scary, we often fear what we don’t know and understand, we fight against vulnerability and working toward change of any kind is difficult. Counseling is and should be a partnership, one driven by the client.
(716) 451-3414 View (716) 451-3414
Photo of Nicole Landes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Landes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14223  (Online Only)
If you are looking for assistance with front line trauma, anxiety, and substance use, you have come to the right place. I am a clinical social worker and have been in the mental health field for over 5 years. My work experience includes working with first responders, trauma, anxiety, depression and substance use. By utilizing a strengths-based approach, we will work together to accomplish the goals that you set forth. I am dedicated to creating a confidential, safe, and inclusive space where you feel you can be understood and assisted. I work to collaborate with each person I meet to achieve their goals.
If you are looking for assistance with front line trauma, anxiety, and substance use, you have come to the right place. I am a clinical social worker and have been in the mental health field for over 5 years. My work experience includes working with first responders, trauma, anxiety, depression and substance use. By utilizing a strengths-based approach, we will work together to accomplish the goals that you set forth. I am dedicated to creating a confidential, safe, and inclusive space where you feel you can be understood and assisted. I work to collaborate with each person I meet to achieve their goals.
(716) 293-2873 View (716) 293-2873
Photo of Marissa Raskin, LMHC, Counselor
Marissa Raskin
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14224  (Online Only)
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including substance use, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, career/work challenges, and parenting problems.
Hi there! My name is Marissa Raskin, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York with over 12-plus years of experience working as a counselor/therapist. I received my undergrad in Criminal Justice and Psychology from the University at Albany and hold a dual Master Degree from John Jay College of Criminal Justice in Forensic Psychology and Forensic Mental Health Counseling. My therapy style is warm, empathetic, supportive and inclusive. I believe in treating anyone and everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels.
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including substance use, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, career/work challenges, and parenting problems.
Hi there! My name is Marissa Raskin, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York with over 12-plus years of experience working as a counselor/therapist. I received my undergrad in Criminal Justice and Psychology from the University at Albany and hold a dual Master Degree from John Jay College of Criminal Justice in Forensic Psychology and Forensic Mental Health Counseling. My therapy style is warm, empathetic, supportive and inclusive. I believe in treating anyone and everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels.
(332) 262-6944 View (332) 262-6944
Photo of Kelly S. Ghani, MSEd, LMHC, Counselor
Kelly S. Ghani
Counselor, MSEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14202
Landmark Health Systems, where I am the Chief Clinical Officer, is a multidisciplinary medical practice that focuses on maximizing health and wellness in addition to recovery from mental health and substance use difficulties.
I am a professional, well-established leader in the counseling and wellness field. I have been working as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and advocate for over 18 years. My experience includes working with adults, young adults, and teens experiencing mental health and behavioral struggles. My professional specialties include: depression, anxiety, trauma, grief / loss, anger, job-related stress, transitional concerns, interpersonal issues, communication difficulties, eating disorders, self-injury, suicidal thinking / behaviors, and impulsivity. I work with individuals with co-morbid medical concerns, those struggling with alcohol / substance use, and individuals who require court-mandated services in a confidential setting.
Landmark Health Systems, where I am the Chief Clinical Officer, is a multidisciplinary medical practice that focuses on maximizing health and wellness in addition to recovery from mental health and substance use difficulties.
I am a professional, well-established leader in the counseling and wellness field. I have been working as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and advocate for over 18 years. My experience includes working with adults, young adults, and teens experiencing mental health and behavioral struggles. My professional specialties include: depression, anxiety, trauma, grief / loss, anger, job-related stress, transitional concerns, interpersonal issues, communication difficulties, eating disorders, self-injury, suicidal thinking / behaviors, and impulsivity. I work with individuals with co-morbid medical concerns, those struggling with alcohol / substance use, and individuals who require court-mandated services in a confidential setting.
(716) 462-0284 View (716) 462-0284
Photo of Jenna Colern, LMHC
Jenna Colern
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14224
In my counseling practice, I specialize in trauma work, substance use, and grief, with a focus on supporting frontline workers. With tailored approaches and compassionate care, I help individuals navigate through life's challenges. From coping with trauma to overcoming addiction and grieving losses, I provide a safe space for healing and growth. My dedication to frontline workers stems from understanding their unique stressors, and I am committed to offering them the specialized support they deserve. Together, we work towards resilience, recovery, and renewed hope.
In my counseling practice, I specialize in trauma work, substance use, and grief, with a focus on supporting frontline workers. With tailored approaches and compassionate care, I help individuals navigate through life's challenges. From coping with trauma to overcoming addiction and grieving losses, I provide a safe space for healing and growth. My dedication to frontline workers stems from understanding their unique stressors, and I am committed to offering them the specialized support they deserve. Together, we work towards resilience, recovery, and renewed hope.
(716) 413-3935 View (716) 413-3935
Photo of Linda Suzanne Elma - Life Skills Management Services, LLC, MBA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Life Skills Management Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14220
We are licensed in Oregon, Maine, Minnesota, Florida, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey and Colorado. We currently offer telehealth and virtual therapeutic services. We work with individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, mood disorders, family relations issues, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders. We combine different therapeutic approaches based on client's presenting concerns, goals, and motivation, such as, cognitive-behavioral, brief therapy, mindfulness, client-centered, solution-focused therapy.
We are licensed in Oregon, Maine, Minnesota, Florida, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey and Colorado. We currently offer telehealth and virtual therapeutic services. We work with individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, mood disorders, family relations issues, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders. We combine different therapeutic approaches based on client's presenting concerns, goals, and motivation, such as, cognitive-behavioral, brief therapy, mindfulness, client-centered, solution-focused therapy.
(833) 541-1453 View (833) 541-1453
Photo of Pamela Pucci, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pamela Pucci
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14228  (Online Only)
Hello! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of counseling experience. My specialties include working with depression, anxiety, substance use, mood disorders, bipolar and borderline personality disorders, and more. My top modalities are cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing. My behavioral health background includes case management, vocational case management, and social work for individuals with mental health and or substance use diagnosis. I use a person-centered, strengths-based approach to support you in making your desired changes.
Hello! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of counseling experience. My specialties include working with depression, anxiety, substance use, mood disorders, bipolar and borderline personality disorders, and more. My top modalities are cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing. My behavioral health background includes case management, vocational case management, and social work for individuals with mental health and or substance use diagnosis. I use a person-centered, strengths-based approach to support you in making your desired changes.
(347) 797-5878 View (347) 797-5878
Photo of John Colby, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Colby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14208
GateHouse Treatment is a private addiction treatment facility providing intervention and addiction treatment services to people suffering from substance use disorders and individuals with co-occurring mental health issues. We offer treatment in a serene setting, and our staff has decades of experience treating substance abuse in those struggling with substance abuse. We provide therapy in a gender-specific environment. GateHouse offers the only comprehensive vocational program in New England.
GateHouse Treatment is a private addiction treatment facility providing intervention and addiction treatment services to people suffering from substance use disorders and individuals with co-occurring mental health issues. We offer treatment in a serene setting, and our staff has decades of experience treating substance abuse in those struggling with substance abuse. We provide therapy in a gender-specific environment. GateHouse offers the only comprehensive vocational program in New England.
(603) 691-1451 View (603) 691-1451
Photo of Timothy S Crumley - CommonSense Wellness Network, IPA, LLC, Counselor
CommonSense Wellness Network, IPA, LLC
Counselor
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14260
Disconnection from our true selves may lead to issues communicating with loved ones, career dissatisfaction, decreased sense of self-worth, substance use, or playing a role in this world you never asked for.
Establishing yourself, and your identity, is a lifelong process. You are not alone when you face questions including: Who am I? What is my purpose? Who do I want in my life? What do I stand for? Why am I here? When we consider these questions, along with countless others branching from these, you might find yourself overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or frustrated. Attempting to navigate this process, you may face societal expectations, dysfunctional family dynamics, economic challenges or other stressors operating against you. While desire to be stable, authentic, and true to self is shared, your story will always be unique.
Disconnection from our true selves may lead to issues communicating with loved ones, career dissatisfaction, decreased sense of self-worth, substance use, or playing a role in this world you never asked for.
Establishing yourself, and your identity, is a lifelong process. You are not alone when you face questions including: Who am I? What is my purpose? Who do I want in my life? What do I stand for? Why am I here? When we consider these questions, along with countless others branching from these, you might find yourself overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or frustrated. Attempting to navigate this process, you may face societal expectations, dysfunctional family dynamics, economic challenges or other stressors operating against you. While desire to be stable, authentic, and true to self is shared, your story will always be unique.
(518) 430-5726 View (518) 430-5726
Photo of Dr. Ulysses Jackson Phd., CAMS, LMHC, CASAC, PLLC
Dr. Ulysses Jackson Phd.
Mental Health Counselor, CAMS, LMHC, CASAC, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14220  (Online Only)
Jackson specializes in substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, disruptive, impulse-control, and conduct disorders.
Dr. Jackson’s clientele is comprised of adults, high school, and college students, entertainment industry professionals, former executives, professors, and athletes. While utilizing individual, couples and family therapy, as well as modalities including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Psychodynamic Therapy.
Jackson specializes in substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, disruptive, impulse-control, and conduct disorders.
Dr. Jackson’s clientele is comprised of adults, high school, and college students, entertainment industry professionals, former executives, professors, and athletes. While utilizing individual, couples and family therapy, as well as modalities including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Psychodynamic Therapy.
(631) 614-6884 View (631) 614-6884
Photo of Mary Santonocito, LMHC, Counselor
Mary Santonocito
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14202  (Online Only)
I have experience addressing concerns such as depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, substance use concerns, family turmoil, and life transitions with adults and adolescents.
Life definitely takes us on a journey. Whether you're happy, sad, anxious, stressed, lonely, grieving, or wanting encouragement for your successes, talking to someone can be an extremely validating experience. I strongly believe that my clients are the experts of their own lives. No one knows you better than yourself. In saying such, I empower my clients to harness that knowledge and discover their intentions while guiding them through the process. You can expect that I will be there to listen, provide understanding, practical feedback, and support through life’s challenges.
I have experience addressing concerns such as depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, substance use concerns, family turmoil, and life transitions with adults and adolescents.
Life definitely takes us on a journey. Whether you're happy, sad, anxious, stressed, lonely, grieving, or wanting encouragement for your successes, talking to someone can be an extremely validating experience. I strongly believe that my clients are the experts of their own lives. No one knows you better than yourself. In saying such, I empower my clients to harness that knowledge and discover their intentions while guiding them through the process. You can expect that I will be there to listen, provide understanding, practical feedback, and support through life’s challenges.
(585) 639-3703 View (585) 639-3703
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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.