Substance Use Therapists in Knoxville, TN

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 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 Maddie Atia, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maddie Atia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
I am a therapist who has primarily worked with mothers who have a history of addiction. I am very passionate about working with individuals who are curious about their behavioral patterns, are driven to better themselves by asking those difficult questions, and ready to break generational cycles of trauma or addiction. I believe that addiction and mental health go hand in hand. Although individuals have sought services for substance use, there was work to be done with trauma, depression, anxiety, etc. I primarily work with teens and adults, and I especially enjoy serving the BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and international communities.
I am a therapist who has primarily worked with mothers who have a history of addiction. I am very passionate about working with individuals who are curious about their behavioral patterns, are driven to better themselves by asking those difficult questions, and ready to break generational cycles of trauma or addiction. I believe that addiction and mental health go hand in hand. Although individuals have sought services for substance use, there was work to be done with trauma, depression, anxiety, etc. I primarily work with teens and adults, and I especially enjoy serving the BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and international communities.
(865) 346-2982 View (865) 346-2982
Photo of Carrie Joy Wadman - Carrie Joy Counseling, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carrie Joy Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37921
Carrie's background and training is in Integrative Mental Health for Anxiety and Depression, Gender, and Substance Use (both abstinence and moderation goals) Therapy. After a very rewarding and joyful career of raising five children, Carrie discovered her passion for psychology, therapy, and the clients she has been honoured to work with. Nothing is quite as rewarding as watching a client during an "aha" moment or hearing about a particularly difficult challenge successfully overcome. Nothing touches the soul quite as much as someone trusting you with their deepest of pains.
Carrie's background and training is in Integrative Mental Health for Anxiety and Depression, Gender, and Substance Use (both abstinence and moderation goals) Therapy. After a very rewarding and joyful career of raising five children, Carrie discovered her passion for psychology, therapy, and the clients she has been honoured to work with. Nothing is quite as rewarding as watching a client during an "aha" moment or hearing about a particularly difficult challenge successfully overcome. Nothing touches the soul quite as much as someone trusting you with their deepest of pains.
(813) 541-0145 View (813) 541-0145
Photo of Briana Torgerson, MA, LADACII, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Briana Torgerson
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LADACII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37901  (Online Only)
As a licensed counselor with over a decade of experience in mental health and addiction treatment, my mission is to support you not just in overcoming substance use, but enhancing all aspects of life. Whether you’re working towards a healthier relationship with alcohol, navigating early sobriety, or strengthening your existing recovery program, I’m here to help. Together we can address challenges such as family issues, trauma, and self-sabotage while also cultivating positive aspects like purpose, relationships, and personal goals. Wellbeing, much like a garden, requires more than just removing weeds - you must also nurture growth.
As a licensed counselor with over a decade of experience in mental health and addiction treatment, my mission is to support you not just in overcoming substance use, but enhancing all aspects of life. Whether you’re working towards a healthier relationship with alcohol, navigating early sobriety, or strengthening your existing recovery program, I’m here to help. Together we can address challenges such as family issues, trauma, and self-sabotage while also cultivating positive aspects like purpose, relationships, and personal goals. Wellbeing, much like a garden, requires more than just removing weeds - you must also nurture growth.
(615) 437-4737 View (615) 437-4737
Brad Jennings, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37917
Brad has worked win the behavioral healthcare field since 2004. He spent over a decade providing and coordinating co-occurring treatment services for community mental healthcare agency; roles have included crisis clinician, residential and outpatient substance-use treatment provider, group and individual therapist, and program administrator/services coordinator. Though he's worn various hats over the years, Brad feel most at-home when facilitating group and individual therapy, creating and holding a safe space for his clients' journey.
Brad has worked win the behavioral healthcare field since 2004. He spent over a decade providing and coordinating co-occurring treatment services for community mental healthcare agency; roles have included crisis clinician, residential and outpatient substance-use treatment provider, group and individual therapist, and program administrator/services coordinator. Though he's worn various hats over the years, Brad feel most at-home when facilitating group and individual therapy, creating and holding a safe space for his clients' journey.
(865) 351-3884 View (865) 351-3884
Photo of Erin Borden, LADACII, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Erin Borden
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADACII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use issues along with anxiety, shame, codependency and feelings of being less than I would love for you to reach out and see if we would be a good fit.
I am passionate about working with individuals, partners, and families that have been impacted by substance use and alcoholism. These experiences have a way of breaking us down causing disconnection and hopelessness. I believe psychoeducation, connection, and support can build a pathway to recovery that is sustainable and provides a foundation for a life worth living. Research shows us that the more support and connection an individual or family has, the more likely they are to overcome challenges. My goal is to help guide, support, and teach you skills that will help you or your loved one live without alcohol or other drugs.
If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use issues along with anxiety, shame, codependency and feelings of being less than I would love for you to reach out and see if we would be a good fit.
I am passionate about working with individuals, partners, and families that have been impacted by substance use and alcoholism. These experiences have a way of breaking us down causing disconnection and hopelessness. I believe psychoeducation, connection, and support can build a pathway to recovery that is sustainable and provides a foundation for a life worth living. Research shows us that the more support and connection an individual or family has, the more likely they are to overcome challenges. My goal is to help guide, support, and teach you skills that will help you or your loved one live without alcohol or other drugs.
(865) 737-1569 View (865) 737-1569
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
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 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 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 Andy Killingsworth, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andy Killingsworth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
With over two decades of experience, I have learned that healing and change is a process that is unique to each individual. In counseling, we will walk this journey together by identifying, exploring, and working through our experiences and challenges. Whether you experience depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, behavioral addictions, trauma, extreme stress, etc., we will explore ways to manage thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and sensations associated with your life circumstances.
With over two decades of experience, I have learned that healing and change is a process that is unique to each individual. In counseling, we will walk this journey together by identifying, exploring, and working through our experiences and challenges. Whether you experience depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, behavioral addictions, trauma, extreme stress, etc., we will explore ways to manage thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and sensations associated with your life circumstances.
(901) 660-5532 View (901) 660-5532
Photo of Donna K Ford, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Donna K Ford
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37915  (Online Only)
If you are experiencing grief, overwhelming stress, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, communication issues, substance use, social anxiety, difficulty at work, or have a specific problem you would like to work through, now is the time to reach out. The world today is complicated and these issues can seem to come out of no where or perhaps they have been a struggle for some time, but you don't have to go it alone. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, or learn new coping strategies, I look forward to working with you.
If you are experiencing grief, overwhelming stress, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, communication issues, substance use, social anxiety, difficulty at work, or have a specific problem you would like to work through, now is the time to reach out. The world today is complicated and these issues can seem to come out of no where or perhaps they have been a struggle for some time, but you don't have to go it alone. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, or learn new coping strategies, I look forward to working with you.
(865) 484-3764 View (865) 484-3764
Photo of Chris (Charlotte) Lawless Buchanan, LADACII, NCAC-I, CAC, QCS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Chris (Charlotte) Lawless Buchanan
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADACII, NCAC-I, CAC, QCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37902  (Online Only)
Life is an adventure, sometimes interrupted by substance use disorders.
I have built my practice believing that everyone deserves a second chance, respect, peace and happiness. My purpose is to assist and support you while you reach YOUR goals. Life can be challenging at times. Seeking to restore balance and harmony in your daily life takes effort and courage. Successful outcomes are possible. Helping you adopt tools and skills to achieve a peaceful mind, healthy marriage/relationship, and your best life is our ambition. Call us. We are waiting to help.
Life is an adventure, sometimes interrupted by substance use disorders.
I have built my practice believing that everyone deserves a second chance, respect, peace and happiness. My purpose is to assist and support you while you reach YOUR goals. Life can be challenging at times. Seeking to restore balance and harmony in your daily life takes effort and courage. Successful outcomes are possible. Helping you adopt tools and skills to achieve a peaceful mind, healthy marriage/relationship, and your best life is our ambition. Call us. We are waiting to help.
(615) 823-6051 View (615) 823-6051
Photo of Martha Law, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Martha Law
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37901
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 Debra Fitzgerald, MS, LPC, MHSP-S, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Debra Fitzgerald
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP-S, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37901  (Online Only)
I currently only see clients virtually who are located in TN . I work with those who are experiencing grief/loss, anxiety, depression, substance use disorders. I am open to see both individual and couples. I also am able to provide grief half-day intensives, grief presentations for anyone in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. I am an approved supervisor for those seeking licensure. I enjoy working to help those in this process!
I currently only see clients virtually who are located in TN . I work with those who are experiencing grief/loss, anxiety, depression, substance use disorders. I am open to see both individual and couples. I also am able to provide grief half-day intensives, grief presentations for anyone in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. I am an approved supervisor for those seeking licensure. I enjoy working to help those in this process!
(629) 400-6782 View (629) 400-6782
Photo of Kevin Lucas Ledford, MS, NCC, LADAC 2, Counselor
Kevin Lucas Ledford
Counselor, MS, NCC, LADAC 2
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37902  (Online Only)
I understand the complexities of substance use disorders and work diligently to create a non-judgmental space for individuals seeking recovery.
My name is Luke Ledford, and I specialize in person-centered therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), with a focus on individuals struggling with addiction. Holding a master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from the University of Memphis, I am dedicated to supporting clients on their journey toward healing and self-discovery. I believe in understanding each client as a unique individual, which allows me to tailor my therapeutic techniques to meet their specific needs.
I understand the complexities of substance use disorders and work diligently to create a non-judgmental space for individuals seeking recovery.
My name is Luke Ledford, and I specialize in person-centered therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), with a focus on individuals struggling with addiction. Holding a master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from the University of Memphis, I am dedicated to supporting clients on their journey toward healing and self-discovery. I believe in understanding each client as a unique individual, which allows me to tailor my therapeutic techniques to meet their specific needs.
(901) 657-2249 View (901) 657-2249
Photo of Melanie S Norton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie S Norton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
I began my career working in inpatient substance abuse facilities attached to hospitals. I am well-versed in groups for addiction and prefer individual counseling for issues in later recovery or dual diagnosis. I see adults and motivated adolescents in my practice. Both men and women are welcome as are couples and families. Other specialty areas are sexual abuse and mood disorders.
I began my career working in inpatient substance abuse facilities attached to hospitals. I am well-versed in groups for addiction and prefer individual counseling for issues in later recovery or dual diagnosis. I see adults and motivated adolescents in my practice. Both men and women are welcome as are couples and families. Other specialty areas are sexual abuse and mood disorders.
(865) 409-0837 View (865) 409-0837
Photo of Leigh M Owens, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leigh M Owens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
I UNDERSTAND! I understand trauma, addiction and I understand pain. I have been in recovery from substance abuse and everything that comes with it since January of 1991.I know what it means to journey from a place of brokenness to a place of wholeness. Addiction and other maladaptive behaviors are just SYMPTOMS of a deeper rooted problem. If you feel like you KNOW what to do but just cannot seem to make yourself do it chances are you have unprocessed issues. If you are in need of support for yourself, or a loved one I would love to help you navigate the road of this journey.
I UNDERSTAND! I understand trauma, addiction and I understand pain. I have been in recovery from substance abuse and everything that comes with it since January of 1991.I know what it means to journey from a place of brokenness to a place of wholeness. Addiction and other maladaptive behaviors are just SYMPTOMS of a deeper rooted problem. If you feel like you KNOW what to do but just cannot seem to make yourself do it chances are you have unprocessed issues. If you are in need of support for yourself, or a loved one I would love to help you navigate the road of this journey.
(865) 276-8180 View (865) 276-8180
Photo of Taylor Worley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor Worley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Asking for help can be a hard and scary thing to do. It takes courage to admit you’re struggling. To me, therapy should be a safe space where you can be open, honest, and vulnerable without fear of judgment. Some of my areas of interest and specialized training include treating depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, substance abuse, and interpersonal/relationship challenges. In my practice, I primarily see adults and have a particular passion for working with women struggling with identity, self-esteem, relationship, & postpartum issues.
Asking for help can be a hard and scary thing to do. It takes courage to admit you’re struggling. To me, therapy should be a safe space where you can be open, honest, and vulnerable without fear of judgment. Some of my areas of interest and specialized training include treating depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, substance abuse, and interpersonal/relationship challenges. In my practice, I primarily see adults and have a particular passion for working with women struggling with identity, self-esteem, relationship, & postpartum issues.
(865) 822-8537 View (865) 822-8537
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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.