Substance Use Therapists in Houston, TX

Photo of Marina Erbstoesser - Menninger's Recovery Intensive Outpatient Program, LMFT-S, LCDC, CSAT
Menninger's Recovery Intensive Outpatient Program
LMFT-S, LCDC, CSAT
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77035
Having the freedom to pursue your life’s goals, be present at work, and have meaningful relationships without problematic substance use requires a transition. No matter what pathway forward you choose, having support from mental health professionals and peers who are managing similar difficulties in life is preparation for a smoother way forward. Menninger offers the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for adults and their family members as a guide for recovery.
Having the freedom to pursue your life’s goals, be present at work, and have meaningful relationships without problematic substance use requires a transition. No matter what pathway forward you choose, having support from mental health professionals and peers who are managing similar difficulties in life is preparation for a smoother way forward. Menninger offers the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for adults and their family members as a guide for recovery.
(346) 517-7954 View (346) 517-7954
Photo of Desiree Julia Martinez, LPC-A
Desiree Julia Martinez
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024
I am passionate about working with adolescents and adults in many areas of life such as perfectionism, anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, grief, unexpected transitions, and relationships both with oneself and others. I am a Mexican-American Latina who speaks spanglish and works from a multicultural approach. I am devoted to working with diverse populations and meeting you where you are at whilst continuously educating myself to be inclusive and mindful.
I am passionate about working with adolescents and adults in many areas of life such as perfectionism, anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, grief, unexpected transitions, and relationships both with oneself and others. I am a Mexican-American Latina who speaks spanglish and works from a multicultural approach. I am devoted to working with diverse populations and meeting you where you are at whilst continuously educating myself to be inclusive and mindful.
(713) 715-6584 View (713) 715-6584
Photo of Allison Marek - Daylight Therapy Group, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daylight Therapy Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005
Daylight Therapy Group is a team of specialists serving teens, young adults, adults, and families facing post-traumatic stress, eating disorders, substance use, depression, and anxiety. We also support teens through friendship difficulties and high-pressure environments, young adults through big "firsts," adults through life transitions, and families seeking to strengthen communication and connection. For many of our clients slowing down and seeking help is sometimes the hardest work they do. We are here to tailor therapy to fit your unique needs
Daylight Therapy Group is a team of specialists serving teens, young adults, adults, and families facing post-traumatic stress, eating disorders, substance use, depression, and anxiety. We also support teens through friendship difficulties and high-pressure environments, young adults through big "firsts," adults through life transitions, and families seeking to strengthen communication and connection. For many of our clients slowing down and seeking help is sometimes the hardest work they do. We are here to tailor therapy to fit your unique needs
(832) 784-8873 View (832) 784-8873
Photo of Jasmin A James, LPC, LCDC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jasmin A James
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77084  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping clients cope with anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, emotional difficulties, anger management, substance use/abuse and behavioral problems.
Life presents many curveballs and valleys, however with courage and commitment, you will learn how to hit the ball over the fence and climb up the mountain again. Reaching out for therapy or counseling can be intimidating, but it is a resource that can help resolve problematic behaviors, limiting beliefs, negative feelings, traumatic experiences, and manage difficult relationship issues. We will work together to achieve your desired health and wellness goals, to thrive in life. Let's work together to alleviate the stress, doubt, and feeling stuck, to ELEVATE your Wellness!
I specialize in helping clients cope with anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, emotional difficulties, anger management, substance use/abuse and behavioral problems.
Life presents many curveballs and valleys, however with courage and commitment, you will learn how to hit the ball over the fence and climb up the mountain again. Reaching out for therapy or counseling can be intimidating, but it is a resource that can help resolve problematic behaviors, limiting beliefs, negative feelings, traumatic experiences, and manage difficult relationship issues. We will work together to achieve your desired health and wellness goals, to thrive in life. Let's work together to alleviate the stress, doubt, and feeling stuck, to ELEVATE your Wellness!
(346) 207-1147 View (346) 207-1147
Photo of Laura Spiller - Wellness Collaborative, Ph D, Psychologist
Wellness Collaborative
Psychologist, Ph D
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77008
Wellness Collaborative is about helping people live the life they want. We work with individuals and couples who are struggling with issues such as substance use, health problems, anxiety, as well as those who are simply feeling overwhelmed and out-of-balance. We will help you identify what really matters to you and what may be getting in the way of doing those things. We work with you to develop a roadmap to start living the life you want to live, including better relationships with your family, friends, and those around you. Start living that life today.
Wellness Collaborative is about helping people live the life they want. We work with individuals and couples who are struggling with issues such as substance use, health problems, anxiety, as well as those who are simply feeling overwhelmed and out-of-balance. We will help you identify what really matters to you and what may be getting in the way of doing those things. We work with you to develop a roadmap to start living the life you want to live, including better relationships with your family, friends, and those around you. Start living that life today.
(832) 742-7659 View (832) 742-7659
Photo of Angela Diehl, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angela Diehl
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77024
I am Angela Diehl, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I utilize primarily a Solution Oriented Approach to Therapy, which is essentially the process of seeking exceptions to the problems presented by clients. I have worked with Individuals, Couples, and Families from Adolescents to Adults. My focuses are Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Use Disorder, Addiction, Infidelity, Family of Origin, Parenting, Communication, Career Related Issues.
I am Angela Diehl, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I utilize primarily a Solution Oriented Approach to Therapy, which is essentially the process of seeking exceptions to the problems presented by clients. I have worked with Individuals, Couples, and Families from Adolescents to Adults. My focuses are Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Use Disorder, Addiction, Infidelity, Family of Origin, Parenting, Communication, Career Related Issues.
(832) 753-6170 View (832) 753-6170
Photo of Case Manager - The Menninger Clinic's Navigator Service, LCSW, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Menninger Clinic's Navigator Service
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77035
Navigator, Menninger's recovery management service, helps adults who have been treated for addiction or substance use disorder as they transition to a lower level of care. The service is designed to help reduce relapse rates and offer crisis support if that is ever needed. The Navigator team, which includes a case manager and peer recovery specialist, provides collaborative recovery management and monitoring. Together, the care team implements active recovery support, structure and accountability while the client participates in outpatient treatment.
Navigator, Menninger's recovery management service, helps adults who have been treated for addiction or substance use disorder as they transition to a lower level of care. The service is designed to help reduce relapse rates and offer crisis support if that is ever needed. The Navigator team, which includes a case manager and peer recovery specialist, provides collaborative recovery management and monitoring. Together, the care team implements active recovery support, structure and accountability while the client participates in outpatient treatment.
(713) 804-4594 View (713) 804-4594
Photo of Kelli L. Wright, PhD, Psychologist
Kelli L. Wright
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77008
I provide an innovative, personalized treatment, based on Integrative Harm Reduction Psychotherapy, for individuals with substance use issues, other risky or addictive behaviors, and a wide range of mental health issues.
I have a private practice in Houston Heights. My doctoral training was completed at the University of Houston, Loma Linda VA in California, and MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. I see people with a variety challenges, but substance use issues, anxiety, and depression are my areas of specialization. My approach to therapy stems from acceptance and mindfulness strategies, meaning I help people identify who and what is most important to them and then to move in a positive way in those directions, despite the unpleasant feelings that often keep us stuck.
I provide an innovative, personalized treatment, based on Integrative Harm Reduction Psychotherapy, for individuals with substance use issues, other risky or addictive behaviors, and a wide range of mental health issues.
I have a private practice in Houston Heights. My doctoral training was completed at the University of Houston, Loma Linda VA in California, and MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. I see people with a variety challenges, but substance use issues, anxiety, and depression are my areas of specialization. My approach to therapy stems from acceptance and mindfulness strategies, meaning I help people identify who and what is most important to them and then to move in a positive way in those directions, despite the unpleasant feelings that often keep us stuck.
(713) 338-9238 View (713) 338-9238
K. B. Reentry Resources
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCDC , CART
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77093
Alora Swayzer, is the facilitator of the Anger Management and Parenting classes/groups and conducts the Substance Use Disorder Assessments. Alora Swayzer's credentials include a M.S. in Human Service, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor #13161, Certified Anger Resolution Therapist #2524-5937, and a Certification as a Parenting Instructor #66935.
Alora Swayzer, is the facilitator of the Anger Management and Parenting classes/groups and conducts the Substance Use Disorder Assessments. Alora Swayzer's credentials include a M.S. in Human Service, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor #13161, Certified Anger Resolution Therapist #2524-5937, and a Certification as a Parenting Instructor #66935.
(281) 688-6958 View (281) 688-6958
Photo of Anna Gomez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna Gomez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77083
Hello, my name is Anna G. Gomez and I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas. I obtained my bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 2014 from the University of Texas-Pan American and a Master’s Degree in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling in 2018 from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. My counseling services address concerns including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, substance use disorders, and anger management. I am bilingual and able to provide services in both English and Spanish.​
Hello, my name is Anna G. Gomez and I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas. I obtained my bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 2014 from the University of Texas-Pan American and a Master’s Degree in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling in 2018 from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. My counseling services address concerns including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, substance use disorders, and anger management. I am bilingual and able to provide services in both English and Spanish.​
(469) 599-4023 View (469) 599-4023
Photo of Debbie Anne Brolan, LCDC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Debbie Anne Brolan
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCDC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77079
At the heart of the therapeutic relationship is connection! My passion is working with all types of individuals, believing that on the inside we have more likeness than differences. Together we explore individual and family history and establish goals for therapy. I provide them with education and support to take the steps towards desired change. Some know they have a substance use problem, others aren't sure, and still others have been affected by the disease of addiction throughout their childhood and/or adult relationships.
At the heart of the therapeutic relationship is connection! My passion is working with all types of individuals, believing that on the inside we have more likeness than differences. Together we explore individual and family history and establish goals for therapy. I provide them with education and support to take the steps towards desired change. Some know they have a substance use problem, others aren't sure, and still others have been affected by the disease of addiction throughout their childhood and/or adult relationships.
(832) 551-1780 View (832) 551-1780
Photo of Rachel Evans, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Evans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77007  (Online Only)
As Brené Brown says, "we are wired for connection," and I bring my relational side to the therapy space while incorporating various tools for our journey together. My clients may be seeking relief from substance use struggles, anxiety, depression, or other things that get in the way of living the life they want to live. I also offer support and guidance to those who love individuals with substance use struggles, helping them find healing and hope. In my work with couples, we build trust, connection, and greater understanding while also tackling life's challenges.
As Brené Brown says, "we are wired for connection," and I bring my relational side to the therapy space while incorporating various tools for our journey together. My clients may be seeking relief from substance use struggles, anxiety, depression, or other things that get in the way of living the life they want to live. I also offer support and guidance to those who love individuals with substance use struggles, helping them find healing and hope. In my work with couples, we build trust, connection, and greater understanding while also tackling life's challenges.
(346) 644-6684 View (346) 644-6684
Photo of Maggie Port, MA, MS, MArch
Maggie Port
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, MS, MArch
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024
I work with clients facing a variety of issues including substance use disorders, trauma, grief, relational difficulties, depression, anxiety, mood disorders and dual diagnoses.
I have yet to meet anyone whose life experience has been wholly devoid of struggle. It seems to be part of the human condition. Although relative, these struggles are something we are all faced with from time to time throughout our lives. In my experience, therapy provides us with the means to not only face and overcome these struggles, but also to find empowerment and purpose within what may have previously been only pain. My belief in the transformative gift one can experience through effective therapy was born during my own personal journey of healing and growth, and later solidified through my work with others.
I work with clients facing a variety of issues including substance use disorders, trauma, grief, relational difficulties, depression, anxiety, mood disorders and dual diagnoses.
I have yet to meet anyone whose life experience has been wholly devoid of struggle. It seems to be part of the human condition. Although relative, these struggles are something we are all faced with from time to time throughout our lives. In my experience, therapy provides us with the means to not only face and overcome these struggles, but also to find empowerment and purpose within what may have previously been only pain. My belief in the transformative gift one can experience through effective therapy was born during my own personal journey of healing and growth, and later solidified through my work with others.
(832) 240-7480 View (832) 240-7480
Photo of Tammy Samour, MS, LPC-S, LCDC, CEAP, SAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tammy Samour
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, LCDC, CEAP, SAP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77058  (Online Only)
Milestones Counseling was established to provide counseling for mental health, relationship, and substance use issues. We provide alcohol & drug evaluations for court, probation, Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) evaluations for the Department of Transportation (DOT) and non-DOT the return to duty rehabilitation process. Texas and out-of-state; Probation/Drug Courts Pre-trial Diversion Cases; Industrial and Petrochemical regulating agencies; DISA; Department of Transportation (DOT); ASAP; First Advantage; NASAP; Workplace Options; Child Protective Services (CPS); Divorce Cases / Attorney / Legal Issues; etc.
Milestones Counseling was established to provide counseling for mental health, relationship, and substance use issues. We provide alcohol & drug evaluations for court, probation, Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) evaluations for the Department of Transportation (DOT) and non-DOT the return to duty rehabilitation process. Texas and out-of-state; Probation/Drug Courts Pre-trial Diversion Cases; Industrial and Petrochemical regulating agencies; DISA; Department of Transportation (DOT); ASAP; First Advantage; NASAP; Workplace Options; Child Protective Services (CPS); Divorce Cases / Attorney / Legal Issues; etc.
(281) 346-9765 View (281) 346-9765
Photo of Mona S Ellis - Mona Ellis, Therapist & DOT Qualified SAP , SAP EAP, MAC, LISAC, LCDC, ICAD, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Mona Ellis, Therapist & DOT Qualified SAP
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, SAP EAP, MAC, LISAC, LCDC, ICAD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77060
I am committed to helping you overcome negative emotions, child and adult traumatic experiences, interpersonal issues, anxiety depression, grief & loss,and employment issues as a result of substance use. I provide the most affordable and comprehensive intervention services for Qualified SAP Return to Duty Services for the Department of Transportation. I provide Office Visits and Video Telehealth technology for individuals who want therapy for interpersonal issues, parenting, stress, depression, substance use, employment, and return to work for positive drug and alcohol tests in the states of Texas and Arizona.
I am committed to helping you overcome negative emotions, child and adult traumatic experiences, interpersonal issues, anxiety depression, grief & loss,and employment issues as a result of substance use. I provide the most affordable and comprehensive intervention services for Qualified SAP Return to Duty Services for the Department of Transportation. I provide Office Visits and Video Telehealth technology for individuals who want therapy for interpersonal issues, parenting, stress, depression, substance use, employment, and return to work for positive drug and alcohol tests in the states of Texas and Arizona.
(832) 346-6417 View (832) 346-6417
Photo of Angela Koreth - Menninger's Adolescent IOP & Day Treatment Program, Licensed Professional Counselor
Menninger's Adolescent IOP & Day Treatment Program
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77035
Menninger offers an intensive outpatient program and day treatment program for adolescents working on managing their mental health, social skills, substance use recovery, and/or adjustments at home or school where they can get peer and professional support in. The goal is to engage the adolescent, along with the family in the process of healing, learn how to cope, and embrace positive change. The two programs are for ages 12 to 17 who may be transitioning from a hospital or residential treatment or who need more structure and focus than typical outpatient therapy.
Menninger offers an intensive outpatient program and day treatment program for adolescents working on managing their mental health, social skills, substance use recovery, and/or adjustments at home or school where they can get peer and professional support in. The goal is to engage the adolescent, along with the family in the process of healing, learn how to cope, and embrace positive change. The two programs are for ages 12 to 17 who may be transitioning from a hospital or residential treatment or who need more structure and focus than typical outpatient therapy.
(346) 209-1133 View (346) 209-1133
Photo of Lee Holley, LCSW, LCDC, PSS, RSPS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lee Holley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC, PSS, RSPS
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77008  (Online Only)
I specialize in alcohol and other drug-related issues, including addiction, alcohol use, substance use disorders, drug and alcohol problems, treatment trauma, peer support, recovery, co-occurring mental health disorders, and harm reduction.
Alcohol and drug problems can be complicated, but seeking help doesn't have to be. You don't need to "hit rock bottom" to make a change. With a passion for aiding individuals in recovery, those grappling with addiction, and those navigating alcohol or substance use, I have expertise in therapy for alcohol and other drug use, harm reduction, and recovery. You might hate AA and be looking to moderate your alcohol intake, or you might be in long-term recovery but struggling to live "life on life's terms." Whatever your difficulty, I am much more openminded than your typical drug or alcohol counselor.
I specialize in alcohol and other drug-related issues, including addiction, alcohol use, substance use disorders, drug and alcohol problems, treatment trauma, peer support, recovery, co-occurring mental health disorders, and harm reduction.
Alcohol and drug problems can be complicated, but seeking help doesn't have to be. You don't need to "hit rock bottom" to make a change. With a passion for aiding individuals in recovery, those grappling with addiction, and those navigating alcohol or substance use, I have expertise in therapy for alcohol and other drug use, harm reduction, and recovery. You might hate AA and be looking to moderate your alcohol intake, or you might be in long-term recovery but struggling to live "life on life's terms." Whatever your difficulty, I am much more openminded than your typical drug or alcohol counselor.
(512) 980-9380 View (512) 980-9380
Photo of Janet Zaborowski, MA, LCDC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janet Zaborowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCDC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77027  (Online Only)
A traumatic event can make you feel like your world has been turned upside-down while substance use or dependence can keep you from living your full potential. Healing from trauma, grief, unhealthy relationships or substance use can happen in an environment without shame or judgment. I tailor the treatment plan for each client's needs utilizing evidenced-based practices and incorporating 12-step recovery, stage of change model and Motivational Interviewing techniques. With these strategies, adolescents and adults have been able to develop healthier coping skills and the ability to thrive.
A traumatic event can make you feel like your world has been turned upside-down while substance use or dependence can keep you from living your full potential. Healing from trauma, grief, unhealthy relationships or substance use can happen in an environment without shame or judgment. I tailor the treatment plan for each client's needs utilizing evidenced-based practices and incorporating 12-step recovery, stage of change model and Motivational Interviewing techniques. With these strategies, adolescents and adults have been able to develop healthier coping skills and the ability to thrive.
(832) 743-1009 View (832) 743-1009
Photo of Vickie Lynn Roberson - WholeNest Recovery Counseling 222, MSP, LCDC, CSOT, CART, BIPP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
WholeNest Recovery Counseling 222
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSP, LCDC, CSOT, CART, BIPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77055  (Online Only)
If you need counseling for Substance Use, Alcohol Use, Sex Offender, Sex Therapy, Anger Resolution, or Trauma, I am just a call away.
Are you struggling with substance or alcohol addiction? Have you relapsed and need to get back on track? Are you struggling with unresolved trauma that is affecting your life? Have you dealt with sexual issues, insecurities, or abuse? Would you like to get a handle on your anger? Do you need help in refocusing so you can attain your dreams and visions? Are you ready to live your best life? Just know you can start today and you have just stumbled on your way to the TOP. Wholeness Life
If you need counseling for Substance Use, Alcohol Use, Sex Offender, Sex Therapy, Anger Resolution, or Trauma, I am just a call away.
Are you struggling with substance or alcohol addiction? Have you relapsed and need to get back on track? Are you struggling with unresolved trauma that is affecting your life? Have you dealt with sexual issues, insecurities, or abuse? Would you like to get a handle on your anger? Do you need help in refocusing so you can attain your dreams and visions? Are you ready to live your best life? Just know you can start today and you have just stumbled on your way to the TOP. Wholeness Life
(281) 688-9152 View (281) 688-9152
Photo of Sara Letizia, MSEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Letizia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024
I have worked with a wide array of issues including, but not limited to, childhood trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, LGBTQIA+ concerns, and relationship anxiety/OCD.
Do you feel disconnected from your true self? Do you yearn to feel like YOU again but have no idea where to start? The good news is, it is possible to reconnect to your truest self. You deserve to feel the joy you once felt. I can help you do this. I have worked in various settings within the I have worked in various settings within the helping field since 2012. I have worked in a psychological research lab, clinical neuropsychology practice, dual diagnosis treatment centers, a behavioral health hospital and private practice. Additionally, I studied various spiritual practices relative to healing trauma.
I have worked with a wide array of issues including, but not limited to, childhood trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, LGBTQIA+ concerns, and relationship anxiety/OCD.
Do you feel disconnected from your true self? Do you yearn to feel like YOU again but have no idea where to start? The good news is, it is possible to reconnect to your truest self. You deserve to feel the joy you once felt. I can help you do this. I have worked in various settings within the I have worked in various settings within the helping field since 2012. I have worked in a psychological research lab, clinical neuropsychology practice, dual diagnosis treatment centers, a behavioral health hospital and private practice. Additionally, I studied various spiritual practices relative to healing trauma.
(713) 322-4918 View (713) 322-4918
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.