Substance Use Therapists in San Antonio, TX

Photo of Shannon Lyn Sorensen, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon Lyn Sorensen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78242  (Online Only)
I specialize in addressing issues related to anger, anxiety, depression, stress management, substance use, trauma, and offering tailored interventions to meet the specific needs of my clients.
In the intricate tapestry of human experiences, each individual carries a unique story, woven with threads of joy, sorrow, triumphs, and challenges. As a therapist, I am committed to creating a safe and empathetic space where clients can unravel the layers of their inner self, fostering a journey toward increased self-awareness and personal growth. With a deep-rooted passion for understanding the complexities of the human mind, my therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration, recognizing that each individual's journey is especially unique.
I specialize in addressing issues related to anger, anxiety, depression, stress management, substance use, trauma, and offering tailored interventions to meet the specific needs of my clients.
In the intricate tapestry of human experiences, each individual carries a unique story, woven with threads of joy, sorrow, triumphs, and challenges. As a therapist, I am committed to creating a safe and empathetic space where clients can unravel the layers of their inner self, fostering a journey toward increased self-awareness and personal growth. With a deep-rooted passion for understanding the complexities of the human mind, my therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration, recognizing that each individual's journey is especially unique.
(210) 742-5115 View (210) 742-5115
Photo of Anna Gomez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna Gomez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78201
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 Stephanie Rae Fernandez-DeGroat, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Rae Fernandez-DeGroat
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78254  (Online Only)
3 years of experience working with substance use, addictions and codependency.
Struggling to see the end in sight? Doubting yourself, your choices and who you show the world you are? Together we can make sense of it all. Life has a way of challenging us with experiences and situations were not always prepared for. Growth from adversity isn’t fun but you can do it! I’m here to walk this journey with you! My goal in life is to help others find the best parts of themselves, learn to love an accept all the beautiful scars that have created who you are today! Love working with all ages, individuals, couples and families. Proud member of the LGBTQIA community!
3 years of experience working with substance use, addictions and codependency.
Struggling to see the end in sight? Doubting yourself, your choices and who you show the world you are? Together we can make sense of it all. Life has a way of challenging us with experiences and situations were not always prepared for. Growth from adversity isn’t fun but you can do it! I’m here to walk this journey with you! My goal in life is to help others find the best parts of themselves, learn to love an accept all the beautiful scars that have created who you are today! Love working with all ages, individuals, couples and families. Proud member of the LGBTQIA community!
(210) 791-0978 View (210) 791-0978
Photo of Alyssa Entzi, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa Entzi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78245  (Online Only)
I have experience with all populations including working directly with sex workers, persons with HIV/ AIDS, all persons affected by substance use, abuse, and addiction (including pregnant women and new mothers), and persons in the criminal justice system for offenses ranging from traffic citations and misdemeanors to capital and first degree felonies.
We, as human beings, are all on a path through life dealing with our own unique conflicts (be it interior or exterior) and struggles from our lives before this point. Everyday is a new chance to devote effort in ourselves with a goal to make ourselves better than the day before. We are all striving to be the absolute best version of ourselves we can be, even if your version looks different than the next person's. Even if you are unsure of your own matters of contention and unable to see the prospects of your future, I am dedicated to starting or continuing on this journey with you.
I have experience with all populations including working directly with sex workers, persons with HIV/ AIDS, all persons affected by substance use, abuse, and addiction (including pregnant women and new mothers), and persons in the criminal justice system for offenses ranging from traffic citations and misdemeanors to capital and first degree felonies.
We, as human beings, are all on a path through life dealing with our own unique conflicts (be it interior or exterior) and struggles from our lives before this point. Everyday is a new chance to devote effort in ourselves with a goal to make ourselves better than the day before. We are all striving to be the absolute best version of ourselves we can be, even if your version looks different than the next person's. Even if you are unsure of your own matters of contention and unable to see the prospects of your future, I am dedicated to starting or continuing on this journey with you.
(830) 219-4356 View (830) 219-4356
Photo of Johnny Ybarra, MS, LCDC, MAC, SAP, QASP-S, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Johnny Ybarra
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCDC, MAC, SAP, QASP-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78217
I have over 15 years of experience working directly with persons diagnosed with substance use disorders.
My name is Johnny R. Ybarra and I'm a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in San Antonio Texas, and nationally recognized by NAADAC as a Master Addiction Counselor (MAC) and a Department of Transportation - Substance Abuse Professional (DOT-SAP). I currently provide SAP evaluations and return-to-duty treatment planning for DOT professionals. Contact me to begin the SAP program!
I have over 15 years of experience working directly with persons diagnosed with substance use disorders.
My name is Johnny R. Ybarra and I'm a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in San Antonio Texas, and nationally recognized by NAADAC as a Master Addiction Counselor (MAC) and a Department of Transportation - Substance Abuse Professional (DOT-SAP). I currently provide SAP evaluations and return-to-duty treatment planning for DOT professionals. Contact me to begin the SAP program!
(210) 714-2741 View (210) 714-2741
Photo of Angela Diehl, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angela Diehl
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78249
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 Kelley Logans-Ali, LCSW -S, ACSW, LCDC, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelley Logans-Ali
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW -S, ACSW, LCDC, CCTP
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
I specialize in working with clients affected by trauma and substance use/ dual diagnosis.
I am Kelley Logans-Ali, LCSW, ACSW, LCDC, CCTP are you looking for total mental wellness ? I offer innovative paths to wellness by offering an array of therapeutic services. I retired after 28 years as The Mental Health Program Specialist for the State of Texas to focus primarily on my private practice. I have experience with the child welfare system, I understand the dynamics involved with families in crisis. I have experience with individual group and family therapy. I provide psychiatric evaluations for acute hospitalizations, individual/group psychotherapy and LCSW Supervision. I am certified trauma specialist.
I specialize in working with clients affected by trauma and substance use/ dual diagnosis.
I am Kelley Logans-Ali, LCSW, ACSW, LCDC, CCTP are you looking for total mental wellness ? I offer innovative paths to wellness by offering an array of therapeutic services. I retired after 28 years as The Mental Health Program Specialist for the State of Texas to focus primarily on my private practice. I have experience with the child welfare system, I understand the dynamics involved with families in crisis. I have experience with individual group and family therapy. I provide psychiatric evaluations for acute hospitalizations, individual/group psychotherapy and LCSW Supervision. I am certified trauma specialist.
(210) 899-7103 View (210) 899-7103
Photo of Valeria Morado, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valeria Morado
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78209
My name is Valeria Morado. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas. I have 5 years of experience providing mental health services to various populations, including youth and adults with anxiety, depression, substance use, and family conflict. I utilize a mix of Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Supportive therapies during treatments with my clients. I believe I am empathetic and client-centered, which significantly helps my clients in their journey to wellness.
My name is Valeria Morado. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas. I have 5 years of experience providing mental health services to various populations, including youth and adults with anxiety, depression, substance use, and family conflict. I utilize a mix of Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Supportive therapies during treatments with my clients. I believe I am empathetic and client-centered, which significantly helps my clients in their journey to wellness.
(832) 400-3992 View (832) 400-3992
Photo of Rochelle A. Webber, MA, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rochelle A. Webber
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78245
Welcome! I'm Rochelle. I'm passionate about working with adults who struggling with their anxiety, self image, substance use, or relationship(s). My ideal clients are adults, partners, and families who have a desire to feel better and are 'tired' of repeating the same patterns. They are not looking for a quick fix, but rather value the investment of quality trauma-informed treatment. I use evidence based treatments to work myself out of a job. You may ask, really? Yes! I want to help empower you to create lasting change within your life!
Welcome! I'm Rochelle. I'm passionate about working with adults who struggling with their anxiety, self image, substance use, or relationship(s). My ideal clients are adults, partners, and families who have a desire to feel better and are 'tired' of repeating the same patterns. They are not looking for a quick fix, but rather value the investment of quality trauma-informed treatment. I use evidence based treatments to work myself out of a job. You may ask, really? Yes! I want to help empower you to create lasting change within your life!
(830) 227-2734 View (830) 227-2734
Photo of Angela Diehl, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angela Diehl
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78228  (Online Only)
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.
(346) 525-3830 View (346) 525-3830
Photo of Kathy Carter, LMSW, LCDC, CTP, CCST, CAGCS
Kathy Carter
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, LCDC, CTP, CCST, CAGCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78232
I specialize in working with teens and adults struggling with trauma, mood disorders, or substance use such as alcohol or drugs.
Trauma and PTSD leaves us feeling broken, damaged, and disconnected from our true selves. It also often leads us to self-medicate with alcohol, drugs, or other substances. You're someone who takes care of others, but still finding yourself falling short, feeling exhausted and unsure what to do. You work hard and thrive in many areas of your life, yet peace escapes you, you feel empty and sometimes hopeless. But you are ready to make a change. You're ready to feel empowered and hopeful. You're ready to work hard and take your life back. My extensive training in trauma, EMDR and substance abuse will help you heal!
I specialize in working with teens and adults struggling with trauma, mood disorders, or substance use such as alcohol or drugs.
Trauma and PTSD leaves us feeling broken, damaged, and disconnected from our true selves. It also often leads us to self-medicate with alcohol, drugs, or other substances. You're someone who takes care of others, but still finding yourself falling short, feeling exhausted and unsure what to do. You work hard and thrive in many areas of your life, yet peace escapes you, you feel empty and sometimes hopeless. But you are ready to make a change. You're ready to feel empowered and hopeful. You're ready to work hard and take your life back. My extensive training in trauma, EMDR and substance abuse will help you heal!
(281) 915-0486 View (281) 915-0486
Photo of Tammy DeGroat, MA, LPC-S, LCDC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tammy DeGroat
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LCDC, NCC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78254  (Online Only)
With over 14 years of specialized training and experience in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use; your teen can heal, learn to cope, and gain tools to get through whatever it is that is bringing them to seek therapy. They may not be fully ready, however I will meet them where they're at, and guide them in working through their challenges.
With over 14 years of specialized training and experience in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use; your teen can heal, learn to cope, and gain tools to get through whatever it is that is bringing them to seek therapy. They may not be fully ready, however I will meet them where they're at, and guide them in working through their challenges.
(830) 341-1072 View (830) 341-1072
Photo of Cassandra L. Lozano, MEd, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cassandra L. Lozano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78210  (Online Only)
Whether you are struggling with substance use, seeking to improve your self-esteem, or looking for ways to manage stress more effectively, I am here to support you on your journey to well-being.
Hello, my name is Cassandra L. Lozano, LPC, LCDC. I have had the privilege of working with a Local Mental Health Authority for the past 8 years, where I have dedicated myself to assisting clients with co-occurring disorders. In 2015, I obtained my Master’s degree in Counseling and Guidance, which has provided a strong foundation for my practice. My areas of specialization include addiction, self-esteem, and mood disorders. I am currently providing Tele-health services through some online platforms including: Headway, Betterhelp and talkspace. Check out my website for more information.
Whether you are struggling with substance use, seeking to improve your self-esteem, or looking for ways to manage stress more effectively, I am here to support you on your journey to well-being.
Hello, my name is Cassandra L. Lozano, LPC, LCDC. I have had the privilege of working with a Local Mental Health Authority for the past 8 years, where I have dedicated myself to assisting clients with co-occurring disorders. In 2015, I obtained my Master’s degree in Counseling and Guidance, which has provided a strong foundation for my practice. My areas of specialization include addiction, self-esteem, and mood disorders. I am currently providing Tele-health services through some online platforms including: Headway, Betterhelp and talkspace. Check out my website for more information.
(956) 398-5638 View (956) 398-5638
Photo of Anna Schroeder - Sober Cross, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sober Cross
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78201  (Online Only)
Utilizing the latest evidence based treatment for Alcoholism and Substance Use Disorders coupled with a strong foundation in faith. Recovery that is faith based counseling. Our Treatment Focus Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths needed to overcome their alcoholism and addictions. A strong foundation in faith with an evidenced based Cognitive Behavioral Treatment. Sober Cross is committed to insuring that you are not alone during your recovery treatment Counseling!
Utilizing the latest evidence based treatment for Alcoholism and Substance Use Disorders coupled with a strong foundation in faith. Recovery that is faith based counseling. Our Treatment Focus Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths needed to overcome their alcoholism and addictions. A strong foundation in faith with an evidenced based Cognitive Behavioral Treatment. Sober Cross is committed to insuring that you are not alone during your recovery treatment Counseling!
(346) 567-6659 View (346) 567-6659
Photo of Heather Kopecki, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Kopecki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78258  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use/addiction, relationship or interpersonal issues, and generational or childhood trauma.
Sometimes we find ourselves in a cycle of anxiety, loops of negative thought patterns, complicated emotions and behaviors, the inability to cope with life stressors, or at times...resorting to unhealthy habits. This can lead us feeling disconnected from loved ones and even ourselves. The way we handle these challenges can determine the path our lives take. With the right tools and the right support, we CAN pave a new path forward. I believe we are all self-healers, with the power and ability within us to heal, break old patterns, learn new strategies, and increase our quality of life, so we can live the life we truly wish to live.
I specialize in helping individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use/addiction, relationship or interpersonal issues, and generational or childhood trauma.
Sometimes we find ourselves in a cycle of anxiety, loops of negative thought patterns, complicated emotions and behaviors, the inability to cope with life stressors, or at times...resorting to unhealthy habits. This can lead us feeling disconnected from loved ones and even ourselves. The way we handle these challenges can determine the path our lives take. With the right tools and the right support, we CAN pave a new path forward. I believe we are all self-healers, with the power and ability within us to heal, break old patterns, learn new strategies, and increase our quality of life, so we can live the life we truly wish to live.
(830) 490-1687 View (830) 490-1687
Photo of Asia Olson, MS, LPC-A, NCC, LCDC
Asia Olson
LPC Associate, MS, LPC-A, NCC, LCDC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78204  (Online Only)
Has using alcohol or other substances to cope with stress or function more effectively become a source of suffering? Have the consequences of substance use led to shame, confusion, anxiety, or depression? Is substance use preventing you from reaching your goals? Is it getting in the way of your relationships? Are you facing legal consequences?
Has using alcohol or other substances to cope with stress or function more effectively become a source of suffering? Have the consequences of substance use led to shame, confusion, anxiety, or depression? Is substance use preventing you from reaching your goals? Is it getting in the way of your relationships? Are you facing legal consequences?
(361) 201-1004 View (361) 201-1004
Photo of Victoria Gulino, LMHC, Counselor
Victoria Gulino
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78205  (Online Only)
I offer empathy, support, and guidance to help my clients with all of life’s challenges, wounds, & problems. I empower my clients and help them develop coping skills. My therapy skills aim to increase self-awareness, enhance internal strength, and reduce stress, fear, and suffering. Together, I can help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself and answer questions such as, “What can I change?” How can I learn to accept things?” or “How do I want to move forward in this precious life?” I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma/PTSD, self-esteem issues, ADHD, stress, life transitions & substance use.
I offer empathy, support, and guidance to help my clients with all of life’s challenges, wounds, & problems. I empower my clients and help them develop coping skills. My therapy skills aim to increase self-awareness, enhance internal strength, and reduce stress, fear, and suffering. Together, I can help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself and answer questions such as, “What can I change?” How can I learn to accept things?” or “How do I want to move forward in this precious life?” I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma/PTSD, self-esteem issues, ADHD, stress, life transitions & substance use.
(646) 450-3064 View (646) 450-3064
Photo of Janet Lantry, LCSW-S, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Lantry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, RYT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78228  (Online Only)
Are you seeking relief and improved functioning, using evidence-based approaches and an integration of the mind and body? Janet specializes in treating PTSD, depression, anxiety, insomnia, relationship conflict, substance use disorders, and uses play therapy as a primary modality when working with children. She is certified in EMDR. She works with all genders, including people who identify as transgender and non-binary and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Janet also has extensive experience working with veterans, active duty service members, and their families, with a unique empathy for being a military child.
Are you seeking relief and improved functioning, using evidence-based approaches and an integration of the mind and body? Janet specializes in treating PTSD, depression, anxiety, insomnia, relationship conflict, substance use disorders, and uses play therapy as a primary modality when working with children. She is certified in EMDR. She works with all genders, including people who identify as transgender and non-binary and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Janet also has extensive experience working with veterans, active duty service members, and their families, with a unique empathy for being a military child.
(210) 981-3936 View (210) 981-3936
Photo of Donna Speeks Armstrong - Wellspring Wellness Manifest Center, MA, MHFA, LCDCI, RSS, BCLC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Wellspring Wellness Manifest Center
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MHFA, LCDCI, RSS, BCLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78213
Are you feeling stuck in life? Are you feeling overwhelmed with the demands of your life, career, or relationships? Do you have mental health concerns due to substance use and other habitual addictions? We help you discover, explore, and overcome what is getting in your way. We provide a safe space where you can began to expand, explore, find hope, discover solutions, and experience healing. We provide Life Coaching and Recovery Support Services for your Life Hurts, Habit and Hangups to individuals, families, and couples.
Are you feeling stuck in life? Are you feeling overwhelmed with the demands of your life, career, or relationships? Do you have mental health concerns due to substance use and other habitual addictions? We help you discover, explore, and overcome what is getting in your way. We provide a safe space where you can began to expand, explore, find hope, discover solutions, and experience healing. We provide Life Coaching and Recovery Support Services for your Life Hurts, Habit and Hangups to individuals, families, and couples.
(210) 625-7689 View (210) 625-7689
Photo of Heather K Perez, MS,  NCC, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather K Perez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78230
I have 11 years of experience in working with mental health crisis and substance use.
Counseling is about instilling hope in those who may have lost it along the way with all of the pressures that arise in life. With all of the stressors we experience, I believe everyone can benefit from counseling to help remove some of that pressure and live a life where you can thrive and enjoy every day. I take a person-centered counseling approach by addressing the needs of the individual in manageable ways they can incorporate into their lives. I also use solution-focused therapy to keep the sessions directed to what the individual wants to achieve from the counseling experience.
I have 11 years of experience in working with mental health crisis and substance use.
Counseling is about instilling hope in those who may have lost it along the way with all of the pressures that arise in life. With all of the stressors we experience, I believe everyone can benefit from counseling to help remove some of that pressure and live a life where you can thrive and enjoy every day. I take a person-centered counseling approach by addressing the needs of the individual in manageable ways they can incorporate into their lives. I also use solution-focused therapy to keep the sessions directed to what the individual wants to achieve from the counseling experience.
(726) 240-7784 View (726) 240-7784
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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.