Substance Use Therapists in Athens, TN

Photo of Susanna King, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susanna King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Athens, TN 37303
I am a licensed master social worker currently accepting new clients at Divergent Roads Counseling. With more than 6 years in the mental health field, I specialize in helping clients of all ages cope with anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship challenges, and grief. My extensive experience spans inpatient psychiatric care and outpatient intensive treatment settings. Utilizing a trauma-informed and client-centered approach, I aim to empower individuals to navigate and heal from past challenges, fostering their journey towards overall well-being.
I am a licensed master social worker currently accepting new clients at Divergent Roads Counseling. With more than 6 years in the mental health field, I specialize in helping clients of all ages cope with anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship challenges, and grief. My extensive experience spans inpatient psychiatric care and outpatient intensive treatment settings. Utilizing a trauma-informed and client-centered approach, I aim to empower individuals to navigate and heal from past challenges, fostering their journey towards overall well-being.
(423) 589-1493 View (423) 589-1493
Photo of Brooke Douglas, MFT-I, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brooke Douglas
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT-I
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Athens, TN 37303
Whether you feel stuck or just need support in learning to communicate with one another, I am here for you. My goal is to offer a safe comforting space free of the fear of judgement for you or your family to explore what healing looks like for you. My passion is walking along side teens ages 12-19, their families, and pre-marital couples. I offer help with those struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, ADHD, grief, adoption, and more. As a therapist I have experience working with adolescents boys in residential treatment, their families, and separately have worked with premarital couples counseling!
Whether you feel stuck or just need support in learning to communicate with one another, I am here for you. My goal is to offer a safe comforting space free of the fear of judgement for you or your family to explore what healing looks like for you. My passion is walking along side teens ages 12-19, their families, and pre-marital couples. I offer help with those struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, ADHD, grief, adoption, and more. As a therapist I have experience working with adolescents boys in residential treatment, their families, and separately have worked with premarital couples counseling!
(423) 528-9902 View (423) 528-9902
Photo of Glyndora Spring Condon, MS, MFT, LPC, CTMH, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Glyndora Spring Condon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MFT, LPC, CTMH, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Athens, TN 37303
I have been helping others: Special needs, Relational, Behavioral, A&D, Elderly, and Children as a C.N.A., Foster mother, Care giver, Activity Director, and as a Therapist during my adult life. I have 10 grandchildren, and 4 are special needs children. I have several years experience providing Couples/Marriage, Family, and Behavioral and Mental therapy; and am eclectic in my use of modalities. I am an author with Good News and multiple other psychology sites. Heal and Hope Counseling Services, LLC have 3-5 counselors of diverse backgrounds, cultures, languages, and specialties!!! We provide in office and Telehealth for our clients!
I have been helping others: Special needs, Relational, Behavioral, A&D, Elderly, and Children as a C.N.A., Foster mother, Care giver, Activity Director, and as a Therapist during my adult life. I have 10 grandchildren, and 4 are special needs children. I have several years experience providing Couples/Marriage, Family, and Behavioral and Mental therapy; and am eclectic in my use of modalities. I am an author with Good News and multiple other psychology sites. Heal and Hope Counseling Services, LLC have 3-5 counselors of diverse backgrounds, cultures, languages, and specialties!!! We provide in office and Telehealth for our clients!
(423) 525-8538 View (423) 525-8538
Photo of Meredith Vining Parker, MA
Meredith Vining Parker
MA
Verified Verified
Athens, TN 37303  (Online Only)
I am a Masters Level therapist with 17+ years experience. I work with older children through senior adults, marriage/family/parenting issues, and mental health disorders, such as Depression and Anxiety. As a former teacher, I have a unique combination of experiences that contribute to my success in working with youth. When counseling school age children, I involve the client's entire environment (parents, teachers, etc.) to develop a comprehensive plan in treating the whole client. I am a member of the AACC.
I am a Masters Level therapist with 17+ years experience. I work with older children through senior adults, marriage/family/parenting issues, and mental health disorders, such as Depression and Anxiety. As a former teacher, I have a unique combination of experiences that contribute to my success in working with youth. When counseling school age children, I involve the client's entire environment (parents, teachers, etc.) to develop a comprehensive plan in treating the whole client. I am a member of the AACC.
(423) 381-8950 View (423) 381-8950
Photo of Glyndora S Condon - Heal and Hope Counseling Services, LLC, MS, MFT, LPC, CTMH, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heal and Hope Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MFT, LPC, CTMH, CCTP
Verified Verified
Athens, TN 37303
We are more than a business, we are a ministry to any who come to us in need for help. We have multiple counselors: Glyndora Condon MS MFT LPC CTMH, CCTP EMDRIA ACS: specializing in behavioral, relational (marriage, couple, children, friendships) emotional, trauma, anger, autism, domestic violence, life transitions, dissociative, addictions, and provides certified classes for DV, Anger, A&D, and Parenting; also Kelly Brownlow, MS SW, who specializes Family/Children/Adolescent and behavioral issues. Amanda Teague MSW, trauma and DID; Lakita Quarles, LME; Family, adolescents, A&D issues. Cierra Cannaly MFT-Child and adult, multi-issue
We are more than a business, we are a ministry to any who come to us in need for help. We have multiple counselors: Glyndora Condon MS MFT LPC CTMH, CCTP EMDRIA ACS: specializing in behavioral, relational (marriage, couple, children, friendships) emotional, trauma, anger, autism, domestic violence, life transitions, dissociative, addictions, and provides certified classes for DV, Anger, A&D, and Parenting; also Kelly Brownlow, MS SW, who specializes Family/Children/Adolescent and behavioral issues. Amanda Teague MSW, trauma and DID; Lakita Quarles, LME; Family, adolescents, A&D issues. Cierra Cannaly MFT-Child and adult, multi-issue
(423) 380-0204 View (423) 380-0204
Photo of Steve Knapp, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steve Knapp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Athens, TN 37303
Pain is an unavoidable reality in life, but it does not have to have the final word. If we are willing to step into our emerging story, new possibilities of healing and growth become achievable and lead us towards a more meaningful life. Whether it is dealing with the effects of trauma or other negative past life events, persistent or recurrent painful emotions, or a difficult season of life, we all have times where it is hard to find the path forward. But there is a path forward, especially when we are willing to reach out for help.
Pain is an unavoidable reality in life, but it does not have to have the final word. If we are willing to step into our emerging story, new possibilities of healing and growth become achievable and lead us towards a more meaningful life. Whether it is dealing with the effects of trauma or other negative past life events, persistent or recurrent painful emotions, or a difficult season of life, we all have times where it is hard to find the path forward. But there is a path forward, especially when we are willing to reach out for help.
(423) 345-9381 View (423) 345-9381

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sherry L Lovin, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sherry L Lovin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Etowah, TN 37331
I have a passion for working with children, teens, individuals, couples, and families that are struggling from life altering events, such as, physical and emotional trauma, substance use and abuse, addiction(s), marital and relational issues, grief, and or family conflict. I have many years of experience working with foster children/families, and 13 years working in a Christ-centered faith-based substance abuse rehabilitation program. I am very passionate about helping my clients recover from past traumatic experiences that have created long-lasting effects upon themselves and their relationships with others.
I have a passion for working with children, teens, individuals, couples, and families that are struggling from life altering events, such as, physical and emotional trauma, substance use and abuse, addiction(s), marital and relational issues, grief, and or family conflict. I have many years of experience working with foster children/families, and 13 years working in a Christ-centered faith-based substance abuse rehabilitation program. I am very passionate about helping my clients recover from past traumatic experiences that have created long-lasting effects upon themselves and their relationships with others.
(865) 302-3698 View (865) 302-3698

Online Therapists

Photo of Martha Law, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Martha Law
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37405
My passion is helping clients find what works for them. My heart is focused on helping people with substance use issues, self-esteem, and all kinds of relationships. Do you ever find yourself feeling stuck in these areas or desiring some kind of change? I would love to help guide you to find alternatives and perspective shifts that can help you tackle your problems with increased confidence and curiosity.
My passion is helping clients find what works for them. My heart is focused on helping people with substance use issues, self-esteem, and all kinds of relationships. Do you ever find yourself feeling stuck in these areas or desiring some kind of change? I would love to help guide you to find alternatives and perspective shifts that can help you tackle your problems with increased confidence and curiosity.
(423) 205-6884 View (423) 205-6884
Photo of Leanne Potts, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leanne Potts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
I have training and experience in anxiety and depression, OCD, perinatal mental health (pregnancy/postpartum), parenting, family and custody issues, and substance use recovery.
My passion is to offer individualized, compassionate client care using a variety of methods. I work with adults, teens, and children. My clients range in age from five years old through adulthood, and they are usually having issues with adjustments, transitions, family, and relationships. They also may struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, or substance use issues. I offer a non-judgmental and safe, healing space. I want to help clients meet their goals and offer hope where it may be lacking.
I have training and experience in anxiety and depression, OCD, perinatal mental health (pregnancy/postpartum), parenting, family and custody issues, and substance use recovery.
My passion is to offer individualized, compassionate client care using a variety of methods. I work with adults, teens, and children. My clients range in age from five years old through adulthood, and they are usually having issues with adjustments, transitions, family, and relationships. They also may struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, or substance use issues. I offer a non-judgmental and safe, healing space. I want to help clients meet their goals and offer hope where it may be lacking.
(865) 328-9479 View (865) 328-9479
Photo of Laura Elizabeth Cartwright, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Elizabeth Cartwright
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37411
If you are sick and tired of being sick and tired, I hear you. If you want to make changes to live a happier and healthier life, I can help you do that! I don't tell people what I think they should do; I work collaboratively with folks to make small changes that add up so you can reach your goals, feel proud of yourself, and add to your coping skill toolbox. I am a licensed professional counselor with 10 years of experience working with a wide variety of clients and concerns, primarily in an acute care hospital setting. I'm not intimidated by mood swings, intrusive thoughts, anger, or substance use. You won't be "too much" for me.
If you are sick and tired of being sick and tired, I hear you. If you want to make changes to live a happier and healthier life, I can help you do that! I don't tell people what I think they should do; I work collaboratively with folks to make small changes that add up so you can reach your goals, feel proud of yourself, and add to your coping skill toolbox. I am a licensed professional counselor with 10 years of experience working with a wide variety of clients and concerns, primarily in an acute care hospital setting. I'm not intimidated by mood swings, intrusive thoughts, anger, or substance use. You won't be "too much" for me.
(423) 212-8374 View (423) 212-8374
Photo of Mannie (Amanda) D Switzer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mannie (Amanda) D Switzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Waitlist for new clients
I love to create a safe place for healing and growth. Whether you are looking to start therapy for the first time or you are trying it again, our time together is centered around your goals. My areas of interest and experience include helping people work through issues related to trauma, anxiety, parenting, relationships, and substance use. I work with adults and children, and especially enjoy serving the LGBTQIA+ and international communities.
I love to create a safe place for healing and growth. Whether you are looking to start therapy for the first time or you are trying it again, our time together is centered around your goals. My areas of interest and experience include helping people work through issues related to trauma, anxiety, parenting, relationships, and substance use. I work with adults and children, and especially enjoy serving the LGBTQIA+ and international communities.
(865) 217-2527 View (865) 217-2527
Photo of Tina I. Reddy, LADACII, QCS, NCACI, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Tina I. Reddy
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADACII, QCS, NCACI
Verified Verified
Pleasant Shade, TN 37145
I specialize in Substance Use Disorder Education, Training and Counseling.
Addiction/ Substance Use Disorders are family illnesses that create unhealthy patterns in all types of relationships. Recovery is a journey from a seemingly hopeless state of mind and body to contentment and serenity! The journey is Physical, Mental/Emotional and Spiritual. It does take time and a willingness to walk through some discomfort in order to gather tools, practice using them and gain confidence. I wish to serve those who desire to begin that journey, or have already been walking the journey but may need some assistance to work through some core issues that keep creating chaos in you or a loved one's life.
I specialize in Substance Use Disorder Education, Training and Counseling.
Addiction/ Substance Use Disorders are family illnesses that create unhealthy patterns in all types of relationships. Recovery is a journey from a seemingly hopeless state of mind and body to contentment and serenity! The journey is Physical, Mental/Emotional and Spiritual. It does take time and a willingness to walk through some discomfort in order to gather tools, practice using them and gain confidence. I wish to serve those who desire to begin that journey, or have already been walking the journey but may need some assistance to work through some core issues that keep creating chaos in you or a loved one's life.
(615) 410-9493 View (615) 410-9493
Photo of Meagan Green, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meagan Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
I am passionate about working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, parent-child and family conflict, substance use, and so much more.
Les Brown once said, "I believe that life is a journey, often difficult and sometimes incredibly cruel, but we are well equipped for it if only we tap into our talents and gifts and allow them to blossom." As we navigate life, it can often feel like we are doing this alone and can feel overwhelmed by the hard things, which can impact how we see ourselves (self-esteem, anxiety, depression, substance use, anger, etc.), our relationships (conflict or co-dependency), and the world. The truth is, though, we don't actually have to do any of it alone!
I am passionate about working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, parent-child and family conflict, substance use, and so much more.
Les Brown once said, "I believe that life is a journey, often difficult and sometimes incredibly cruel, but we are well equipped for it if only we tap into our talents and gifts and allow them to blossom." As we navigate life, it can often feel like we are doing this alone and can feel overwhelmed by the hard things, which can impact how we see ourselves (self-esteem, anxiety, depression, substance use, anger, etc.), our relationships (conflict or co-dependency), and the world. The truth is, though, we don't actually have to do any of it alone!
(865) 568-5815 View (865) 568-5815
Photo of Rebecca Yaklic, PysD, Psychologist
Rebecca Yaklic
Psychologist, PysD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
I have worked with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and walks of life, and I particularly enjoy working with folks who are experiencing concerns with mood, anxiety, grief, trauma, and substance use.
Life can be challenging with its various ups and downs, and at times, it can feel hopeless that things will improve. If you’re feeling this way, you are not alone! As a psychologist, my goal is not only to help find solutions and ways to cope with these challenges, but also to sit with you through the experiences in life that we may not be able to change. Therapy is not one size fits all, so utilizing various techniques including CBT, ACT, and DBT, we will work together to develop a plan to address your specific concerns and ensure that you are able to refocus on the most important and valuable parts of your life.
I have worked with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and walks of life, and I particularly enjoy working with folks who are experiencing concerns with mood, anxiety, grief, trauma, and substance use.
Life can be challenging with its various ups and downs, and at times, it can feel hopeless that things will improve. If you’re feeling this way, you are not alone! As a psychologist, my goal is not only to help find solutions and ways to cope with these challenges, but also to sit with you through the experiences in life that we may not be able to change. Therapy is not one size fits all, so utilizing various techniques including CBT, ACT, and DBT, we will work together to develop a plan to address your specific concerns and ensure that you are able to refocus on the most important and valuable parts of your life.
(865) 874-6978 View (865) 874-6978
Photo of Tiffany Porter - Tiffany Porter / Help Recovery Centers, LADAC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Tiffany Porter / Help Recovery Centers
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADAC
Verified Verified
Christiana, TN 37037
I believe that individuals suffering from substance use and other mental illnesses should be treated with dignity and respect.
Tiffany Porter is the lead therapist and co-founder of Help Recovery Centers. She has a degree in healthcare management and is a level II licensed alcohol and drug abuse counselor. For the last 10 years, she has been providing alcohol and drug assessments and outpatient substance abuse treatment, while directing and managing the daily activities of the DUI Education Centers. The DUI Education Centers is an education and alternative sentencing facility for non-violent alcohol and drug related offenders. Tiffany also works as a counselor and medical liaison with Recovery Consulting Service’s Suboxone and counseling program..
I believe that individuals suffering from substance use and other mental illnesses should be treated with dignity and respect.
Tiffany Porter is the lead therapist and co-founder of Help Recovery Centers. She has a degree in healthcare management and is a level II licensed alcohol and drug abuse counselor. For the last 10 years, she has been providing alcohol and drug assessments and outpatient substance abuse treatment, while directing and managing the daily activities of the DUI Education Centers. The DUI Education Centers is an education and alternative sentencing facility for non-violent alcohol and drug related offenders. Tiffany also works as a counselor and medical liaison with Recovery Consulting Service’s Suboxone and counseling program..
(615) 488-8511 View (615) 488-8511
Photo of Christen Compton, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christen Compton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
I have worked with those struggling with substance use disorders and consider this my specialty.
Life can be incredibly challenging and isolating. During the daily struggle, we forget that we need validation and support to keep pressing forward. We also do not realize how our past experiences affect our functioning. Sometimes we need external support as well as a compassionate, supportive approach to help us endure and overcome hardships. Regardless of what you're experiencing, you need safe people. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, or substance use, I would like to support you in your journey and provide that safety.
I have worked with those struggling with substance use disorders and consider this my specialty.
Life can be incredibly challenging and isolating. During the daily struggle, we forget that we need validation and support to keep pressing forward. We also do not realize how our past experiences affect our functioning. Sometimes we need external support as well as a compassionate, supportive approach to help us endure and overcome hardships. Regardless of what you're experiencing, you need safe people. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, or substance use, I would like to support you in your journey and provide that safety.
(865) 800-0525 View (865) 800-0525
Photo of Cynthia Fallowfield, Pre-Licensed Professional
Cynthia Fallowfield
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Ooltewah, TN 37363
Cynthia is a master’s level clinician with an M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Cynthia’s professional interests are interpersonal trauma, substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, and religious trauma. She has experience working with transitional-aged youth exploring their identity. She is an advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights and has experience working with LGBTQIA+ youth and the intersectionality of substance use disorders. Cynthia also has a wealth of knowledge from working with elite athletes for decades.
Cynthia is a master’s level clinician with an M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Cynthia’s professional interests are interpersonal trauma, substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, and religious trauma. She has experience working with transitional-aged youth exploring their identity. She is an advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights and has experience working with LGBTQIA+ youth and the intersectionality of substance use disorders. Cynthia also has a wealth of knowledge from working with elite athletes for decades.
(423) 799-3879 View (423) 799-3879
Photo of Lindsey O'Connell - Mind Body Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mind Body Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37934
We offer adult and adolescent intensive outpatient programs (IOP) for substance use and mental health disorder treatment, full service outpatient counseling, medication assisted treatment (MAT), medication management, assessment, nutrition counseling, peer support and coaching, TMS, ketamine therapy, and more.
If you are looking for a home for all of your mental health and wellness needs, you've found it. We are an innovative outpatient concept located in Franklin and Knoxville, TN that offers clinical modalities alongside holistic interventions to turn traditional addiction and mental health treatment into a whole-body healing experience. To support this, we offer our patients a relaxing and interactive environment, with modern spaces and enriching activities. We have teams of therapists, psychiatric medical providers, coaches, and peer recovery specialists who work together to make sure you get the tools you need to be well.
We offer adult and adolescent intensive outpatient programs (IOP) for substance use and mental health disorder treatment, full service outpatient counseling, medication assisted treatment (MAT), medication management, assessment, nutrition counseling, peer support and coaching, TMS, ketamine therapy, and more.
If you are looking for a home for all of your mental health and wellness needs, you've found it. We are an innovative outpatient concept located in Franklin and Knoxville, TN that offers clinical modalities alongside holistic interventions to turn traditional addiction and mental health treatment into a whole-body healing experience. To support this, we offer our patients a relaxing and interactive environment, with modern spaces and enriching activities. We have teams of therapists, psychiatric medical providers, coaches, and peer recovery specialists who work together to make sure you get the tools you need to be well.
(615) 637-1532 View (615) 637-1532
Photo of Deanna Wycheck Szabo, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deanna Wycheck Szabo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37421
Thank you for your interest in my practice. Choosing the right therapist is an important decision. Research shows that the therapeutic relationship is one of the strongest predictors of successful treatment, more so than the techniques or modalities utilized. There is bravery in seeking support, and a critical component in growth is being honest with ourselves about strengths, struggles, and goals. Many clients seek therapy with me to work on issues relating to anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, relationship conflicts, communication, boundary setting, emotional expression, and general life difficulties.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. Choosing the right therapist is an important decision. Research shows that the therapeutic relationship is one of the strongest predictors of successful treatment, more so than the techniques or modalities utilized. There is bravery in seeking support, and a critical component in growth is being honest with ourselves about strengths, struggles, and goals. Many clients seek therapy with me to work on issues relating to anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, relationship conflicts, communication, boundary setting, emotional expression, and general life difficulties.
(615) 709-6269 View (615) 709-6269
Photo of Breanna Smith, EdS , Pre-Licensed Professional
Breanna Smith
Pre-Licensed Professional, EdS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37918
I have experience in a variety of issues across the lifespan from career development and life transitions to trauma, grief, and substance use.
Whatever you may be working through in life, my aim is to collaboratively walk alongside you to help you achieve your goals. Whether you are dealing with short-term concerns or delving into deeply rooted trauma, my hope is to empower and support you along the way. I use a holistic approach based on unique client needs and strengths utilizing evidence-based techniques and practices.
I have experience in a variety of issues across the lifespan from career development and life transitions to trauma, grief, and substance use.
Whatever you may be working through in life, my aim is to collaboratively walk alongside you to help you achieve your goals. Whether you are dealing with short-term concerns or delving into deeply rooted trauma, my hope is to empower and support you along the way. I use a holistic approach based on unique client needs and strengths utilizing evidence-based techniques and practices.
(865) 855-4934 View (865) 855-4934

See more therapy options for Athens

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.