Photo of Brenda L Davis, MA, LPC, RPT-S, CSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brenda L Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S, CSAC
Verified Verified
Courtland, VA 23837
Often times, we are faced with challenges in our relationships at home, work or at school, that seem impossible for us to move beyond. The pain associated with a breakup, divorce, or loss of employment, can seem overwhelming. Together we can work through your challenges and help you to reach your full potential.
Often times, we are faced with challenges in our relationships at home, work or at school, that seem impossible for us to move beyond. The pain associated with a breakup, divorce, or loss of employment, can seem overwhelming. Together we can work through your challenges and help you to reach your full potential.
(757) 653-5751 View (757) 653-5751
Photo of Chelsea Jefferson, MSW
Chelsea Jefferson
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Verified Verified
Courtland, VA 23837
In providing mental health care, I have gained experience with a variety of populations, situations, and backgrounds. The majority of my experience accumulated in a residential setting for children and adolescents. As a result of that experience, my practice has evolved to come from a Cognitive Behavioral base with an emphasis on practicing trauma informed care while focusing on mindfulness, being person-centered, and utilizing one’s own strengths as a source of healing.
In providing mental health care, I have gained experience with a variety of populations, situations, and backgrounds. The majority of my experience accumulated in a residential setting for children and adolescents. As a result of that experience, my practice has evolved to come from a Cognitive Behavioral base with an emphasis on practicing trauma informed care while focusing on mindfulness, being person-centered, and utilizing one’s own strengths as a source of healing.
(757) 520-1716 View (757) 520-1716

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Percilla Zeno - Zeno Wellness Group - Substance Abuse Outpatient, LCSW, LPC, LSATP, CPRS, CSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zeno Wellness Group - Substance Abuse Outpatient
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCSW, LPC, LSATP, CPRS, CSAC
Verified Verified
Franklin, VA 23851
At Zeno Wellness Group, we don't want to know what's wrong with you. We want to know what happened to you. We understand that our clients seek relief from the burdens of substance use, mental health struggles, and the trauma of disrupted relationships. Leveraging the proven techniques of Therapy coupled with supportive Peer Recovery, we tailor our approach to meet the specific challenges and aspirations of each client. Our goal is to empower you to overcome negative patterns and reclaim control, providing the tools for lasting change. Our Therapists & Peer Specialists can be your guide toward wellness and resilience. Call Today!
At Zeno Wellness Group, we don't want to know what's wrong with you. We want to know what happened to you. We understand that our clients seek relief from the burdens of substance use, mental health struggles, and the trauma of disrupted relationships. Leveraging the proven techniques of Therapy coupled with supportive Peer Recovery, we tailor our approach to meet the specific challenges and aspirations of each client. Our goal is to empower you to overcome negative patterns and reclaim control, providing the tools for lasting change. Our Therapists & Peer Specialists can be your guide toward wellness and resilience. Call Today!
(757) 280-3066 View (757) 280-3066
Photo of Mark Murphy, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mark Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Capron, VA 23829
I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor for over 20 years. I have worked with men, women, teens, and families on various issues. Sometimes that work involved helping them through a particular incident or life change that overwhelmed them. Other times, our work centered around longstanding topics of depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction. With years of both institutional and outpatient experience, I enjoy helping people move from a place they can no longer tolerate to one where they feel happier and more effective. I also provide clinical supervision for LPC residents.
I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor for over 20 years. I have worked with men, women, teens, and families on various issues. Sometimes that work involved helping them through a particular incident or life change that overwhelmed them. Other times, our work centered around longstanding topics of depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction. With years of both institutional and outpatient experience, I enjoy helping people move from a place they can no longer tolerate to one where they feel happier and more effective. I also provide clinical supervision for LPC residents.
(571) 601-1859 View (571) 601-1859
Photo of Deborah A Barham, LMHC, LPC, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deborah A Barham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CHT
Not Verified Not Verified
Franklin, VA 23851
Seeking therapy can be 'anxiety provoking" and confusing. I am committed to helping clients feel comfortable and connected, providing a non-judgmental and user friendly approach. My work with clients is painless, effective and long lasting. My areas of expertise are sexual,emotional and physical abuse, anger problems, anxiety or fear, women's empowerment, men issues, substance abuse, relationship issues,domestic violence, grief and gay/lesbian issues.
Seeking therapy can be 'anxiety provoking" and confusing. I am committed to helping clients feel comfortable and connected, providing a non-judgmental and user friendly approach. My work with clients is painless, effective and long lasting. My areas of expertise are sexual,emotional and physical abuse, anger problems, anxiety or fear, women's empowerment, men issues, substance abuse, relationship issues,domestic violence, grief and gay/lesbian issues.
(954) 532-8868 View (954) 532-8868

Online Therapists

Photo of Regina Neal - A & R Behavioral Health, Inc, Regina , BSY, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A & R Behavioral Health, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Regina , BSY, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23230
We have worked professionally and personally with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families, military, veterans, LGBTQ+ and those who suffer with substance use disorders.
A & R Behavioral Health's primary mission is to provide a nonjudgmental open environment, with a deep and unique understanding of struggle and an attentive listening ear that can help our clients to be motivated to positive changes which will inspire them to find and live life within their purpose. We specialize in a variety of counseling services to include but not limited to couples, individual, and group counseling, grief, marriage, anxiety, depression, family, addiction, LGBTQ+ issues, behavioral and PTSD trauma therapy. All our therapists are skillful, knowledgeable, transparent, and compassionate.
We have worked professionally and personally with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families, military, veterans, LGBTQ+ and those who suffer with substance use disorders.
A & R Behavioral Health's primary mission is to provide a nonjudgmental open environment, with a deep and unique understanding of struggle and an attentive listening ear that can help our clients to be motivated to positive changes which will inspire them to find and live life within their purpose. We specialize in a variety of counseling services to include but not limited to couples, individual, and group counseling, grief, marriage, anxiety, depression, family, addiction, LGBTQ+ issues, behavioral and PTSD trauma therapy. All our therapists are skillful, knowledgeable, transparent, and compassionate.
(804) 441-6268 View (804) 441-6268
Photo of Jamie G Shawn, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie G Shawn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, VA 23185
Jamie is a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience in a variety of settings and populations. In individual counseling, Jamie has assisted clients to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorder. He has provided mental health services to youth in many contexts including schools, homes, residential facilities, and outpatient environments, and has helped many couples and families find improved communication, cooperation, and closeness.
Jamie is a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience in a variety of settings and populations. In individual counseling, Jamie has assisted clients to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorder. He has provided mental health services to youth in many contexts including schools, homes, residential facilities, and outpatient environments, and has helped many couples and families find improved communication, cooperation, and closeness.
(757) 982-2368 View (757) 982-2368
Photo of Jonathan M Ugalde, MSEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jonathan M Ugalde
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bon Air, VA 23235
Are you feeling like you can't handle life's stressors? Is it hard for you to achieve goals and get your needs met? Are you affected by anxiety, depression, substance use, communication issues, intellectual or learning disabilities, mood swings, lack of social skills, or another mental health concern? Do you need an identity? Or a parent working to develop parenting skills? You can start making changes today by working to identify your needs, desires, and how you have been impacted by your biology, psychology, environment, and spiritual experiences while developing your identity and mastering coping skills in session today.
Are you feeling like you can't handle life's stressors? Is it hard for you to achieve goals and get your needs met? Are you affected by anxiety, depression, substance use, communication issues, intellectual or learning disabilities, mood swings, lack of social skills, or another mental health concern? Do you need an identity? Or a parent working to develop parenting skills? You can start making changes today by working to identify your needs, desires, and how you have been impacted by your biology, psychology, environment, and spiritual experiences while developing your identity and mastering coping skills in session today.
(804) 207-8592 View (804) 207-8592
Photo of Lisa Noe, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Noe
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midlothian, VA 23114
Waitlist for new clients
My experience is in providing counseling services to a diverse population of adult and adolescent clients presenting with a variety of concerns, including: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use issues, trauma and grief.
I use a client-centered and collaborative approach to provide a confidential, safe and supportive space during therapy sessions. Treatment often focuses on strategies to increase flexibility (which has been shown to decrease the severity and occurrence of mental health issues), identify and process concerns, and develop strategies for managing anxiety, depression and other issues. However, all treatment is individualized based on client-specific goals and needs. I utilize solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), mindfulness/grounding techniques and other interventions.
My experience is in providing counseling services to a diverse population of adult and adolescent clients presenting with a variety of concerns, including: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use issues, trauma and grief.
I use a client-centered and collaborative approach to provide a confidential, safe and supportive space during therapy sessions. Treatment often focuses on strategies to increase flexibility (which has been shown to decrease the severity and occurrence of mental health issues), identify and process concerns, and develop strategies for managing anxiety, depression and other issues. However, all treatment is individualized based on client-specific goals and needs. I utilize solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), mindfulness/grounding techniques and other interventions.
(804) 509-2755 View (804) 509-2755
Photo of Hayley Ruth Lambdin, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hayley Ruth Lambdin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23226
My specialty is working with people who face anxiety, depression, severe stress, trauma, and substance use issues.
Anxiety, depression, severe stress, trauma, addiction, and other mental or emotional health struggles can prevent us from living our best, most fulfilling life. I am a firm believer in meeting a person where they are at when it comes to supporting them in their journey towards healing. Working collaboratively, we can heal old wounds and implement skills that can be effective, stabilizing, and healing. These skills can assist in improving your quality of life and better coping with life’s ongoing challenges.
My specialty is working with people who face anxiety, depression, severe stress, trauma, and substance use issues.
Anxiety, depression, severe stress, trauma, addiction, and other mental or emotional health struggles can prevent us from living our best, most fulfilling life. I am a firm believer in meeting a person where they are at when it comes to supporting them in their journey towards healing. Working collaboratively, we can heal old wounds and implement skills that can be effective, stabilizing, and healing. These skills can assist in improving your quality of life and better coping with life’s ongoing challenges.
(804) 207-5791 View (804) 207-5791
Photo of Tanya Elizondo-Lyndaker, RIC, MA, CSOTP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tanya Elizondo-Lyndaker
Pre-Licensed Professional, RIC, MA, CSOTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23236
I understand the courage and amount of trust it takes to share aspects of your life with someone. I strive to provide a space where everyone can feel heard and seen, and hopeful that positive changes can be made through time and effort. For more than 10 years, I have gained experience working with adults in the community experiencing developmental disabilities, sexual offenders in both prison and treatment center settings, substance use disorders in both outpatient and inpatient settings and teenagers participating in intensive in-home services. I have clinical experience with individual/group therapy and conduct family sessions.
I understand the courage and amount of trust it takes to share aspects of your life with someone. I strive to provide a space where everyone can feel heard and seen, and hopeful that positive changes can be made through time and effort. For more than 10 years, I have gained experience working with adults in the community experiencing developmental disabilities, sexual offenders in both prison and treatment center settings, substance use disorders in both outpatient and inpatient settings and teenagers participating in intensive in-home services. I have clinical experience with individual/group therapy and conduct family sessions.
(804) 485-1559 View (804) 485-1559
Photo of Creshell Washington, MS , Pre-Licensed Professional
Creshell Washington
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23284
I specialize in substance use disorders, dual diagnoses, and mood disorders.
As a counselor specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered, and multi-cultural therapy, I am committed to ensuring that each client receives the attention and dedication that they deserve. By implementing these approaches, I provide a non-judgmental, supportive space for individuals seeking transformative change in their lives. Driven by a deep-rooted passion for promoting change, I create therapeutic alliances built on trust and empathy. As a strong advocate for clients, I strive to empower those who entrust me with their well-being, guiding them toward a brighter path forward.
I specialize in substance use disorders, dual diagnoses, and mood disorders.
As a counselor specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered, and multi-cultural therapy, I am committed to ensuring that each client receives the attention and dedication that they deserve. By implementing these approaches, I provide a non-judgmental, supportive space for individuals seeking transformative change in their lives. Driven by a deep-rooted passion for promoting change, I create therapeutic alliances built on trust and empathy. As a strong advocate for clients, I strive to empower those who entrust me with their well-being, guiding them toward a brighter path forward.
(804) 376-5420 View (804) 376-5420
Photo of Jillian Pelzer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jillian Pelzer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23321
Hi! My name is Jillian Pelzer. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor for the state of VA. I take a person-centered approach to therapy, meaning you are the expert of your own life. I am simply here to help you organize your thoughts and judgment so that you can make positive decisions for your life. I have expertise in counseling clients with depression, parenting problems, suicidal ideation, adjustment disorders, substance use problems, and more. I am super laid back! This will be a no-stress, no-pressure situation. The time is yours to use how you'd like. I am always flexible with my clients.
Hi! My name is Jillian Pelzer. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor for the state of VA. I take a person-centered approach to therapy, meaning you are the expert of your own life. I am simply here to help you organize your thoughts and judgment so that you can make positive decisions for your life. I have expertise in counseling clients with depression, parenting problems, suicidal ideation, adjustment disorders, substance use problems, and more. I am super laid back! This will be a no-stress, no-pressure situation. The time is yours to use how you'd like. I am always flexible with my clients.
(757) 859-0682 View (757) 859-0682
Photo of Jen Zegan-Lister, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jen Zegan-Lister
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
North Chesterfield, VA 23236
Hello! I’m Jen/Jay and I specialize in working with the queer community, trauma, and substance use (you do not need to qualify for all or any of these to come see me). If complex trauma and PTS/D symptoms are things you struggle with, I am trained in EMDR and Brainspotting. In my office you choose what you’d like to address and what is off limits. This is your space to explore and process what you need and want to. You are the only expert of yourself. I like to meet you where you’re at and explore what is challenging and/or painful. My goal is to help my community heal and find wholeheartedness and acceptance, exactly as you are.
Hello! I’m Jen/Jay and I specialize in working with the queer community, trauma, and substance use (you do not need to qualify for all or any of these to come see me). If complex trauma and PTS/D symptoms are things you struggle with, I am trained in EMDR and Brainspotting. In my office you choose what you’d like to address and what is off limits. This is your space to explore and process what you need and want to. You are the only expert of yourself. I like to meet you where you’re at and explore what is challenging and/or painful. My goal is to help my community heal and find wholeheartedness and acceptance, exactly as you are.
(804) 373-8646 View (804) 373-8646
Photo of Stephanie Schutte, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Schutte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23235
I also have specialized training in cognitive behavioral therapy and extensive experience working with substance use and addiction.
Hello and welcome! I’m excited that you are considering therapy, whether it is to improve your mood, solve a problem in your life, address difficult experiences from your past, or perhaps build your confidence or further develop your sense of self. I believe therapy involves science and art. It is a collaborative process where we work together, with you as the expert of your experience and me supporting you with evidence-based, researched approaches and strategies that can help you accomplish your goals. I see my role as a practitioner as supporting you to heal and grow, and to ultimately become your own therapist.
I also have specialized training in cognitive behavioral therapy and extensive experience working with substance use and addiction.
Hello and welcome! I’m excited that you are considering therapy, whether it is to improve your mood, solve a problem in your life, address difficult experiences from your past, or perhaps build your confidence or further develop your sense of self. I believe therapy involves science and art. It is a collaborative process where we work together, with you as the expert of your experience and me supporting you with evidence-based, researched approaches and strategies that can help you accomplish your goals. I see my role as a practitioner as supporting you to heal and grow, and to ultimately become your own therapist.
(804) 676-6181 View (804) 676-6181
Photo of Benita James - Beautiful Journey Consultant Mental Health, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beautiful Journey Consultant Mental Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23510
My experiences in Substance Use Disorders, Anger, Grief, Low Self-Esteem, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma (PTSD).
I am compassionate and believe in meeting a person where they are utilizing their strengths to help them manage their emotional stability in a non-judgmental environment, with the belief we are equal. My belief and approach are based on the client’s oversee their own counseling experiences working together to gain tools needed to manage their own emotional stability. I integrated several different approaches such as CBT, Person Centered, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment in different and unique therapeutic areas along with therapeutic play therapy.
My experiences in Substance Use Disorders, Anger, Grief, Low Self-Esteem, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma (PTSD).
I am compassionate and believe in meeting a person where they are utilizing their strengths to help them manage their emotional stability in a non-judgmental environment, with the belief we are equal. My belief and approach are based on the client’s oversee their own counseling experiences working together to gain tools needed to manage their own emotional stability. I integrated several different approaches such as CBT, Person Centered, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment in different and unique therapeutic areas along with therapeutic play therapy.
(757) 906-6251 View (757) 906-6251
Photo of Cristyl Word, MS, LPC, CSOTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cristyl Word
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSOTP
Verified Verified
Kenbridge, VA 23944  (Online Only)
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of assisting clients in the areas of trauma (childhood and/or complex), depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, anger management, self-harm, grief/loss, distress from life situations/transition, challenging behavioral problems, substance use, self-esteem, stress management, and interpersonal skills.
I have worked in a variety of settings throughout the years to include public schools, an inpatient psychiatric facility, the criminal justice system, and virtual mental health sessions. Populations I have assisted in their journey to mental health and wellness include children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly; physically handicapped, intellectually disabled, emotionally disturbed, and seriously mentally ill. My life experiences have molded me into a genuinely empathetic clinician who is able to connect with clients and help to empower them as they heal and grow.
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of assisting clients in the areas of trauma (childhood and/or complex), depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, anger management, self-harm, grief/loss, distress from life situations/transition, challenging behavioral problems, substance use, self-esteem, stress management, and interpersonal skills.
I have worked in a variety of settings throughout the years to include public schools, an inpatient psychiatric facility, the criminal justice system, and virtual mental health sessions. Populations I have assisted in their journey to mental health and wellness include children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly; physically handicapped, intellectually disabled, emotionally disturbed, and seriously mentally ill. My life experiences have molded me into a genuinely empathetic clinician who is able to connect with clients and help to empower them as they heal and grow.
(434) 595-4468 View (434) 595-4468
Photo of Jordan Dimmick, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jordan Dimmick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Chesterfield, VA 23236  (Online Only)
I have practice with a wide range of clients and therapeutic topics, such as anxiety, depression, substance use/abuse, PTSD, and self-identity exploration.
Feeling lost, stuck, isolated or alone? Feel like you are struggling to find a safe space to explore the different experiences in your life? Are you having difficulties related to your sense of identity or your relations with friends and family? I enjoy helping clients build a support system and develop coping skills to help them better handle various life stressors/experiences. I find it important that the counselor is a good fit for a client's needs and I would love to schedule a free consultation with you.
I have practice with a wide range of clients and therapeutic topics, such as anxiety, depression, substance use/abuse, PTSD, and self-identity exploration.
Feeling lost, stuck, isolated or alone? Feel like you are struggling to find a safe space to explore the different experiences in your life? Are you having difficulties related to your sense of identity or your relations with friends and family? I enjoy helping clients build a support system and develop coping skills to help them better handle various life stressors/experiences. I find it important that the counselor is a good fit for a client's needs and I would love to schedule a free consultation with you.
(804) 885-2540 View (804) 885-2540
Photo of Sarah Falzone, MA, LPC-R, NCC, JD
Sarah Falzone
Resident in Counseling, MA, LPC-R, NCC, JD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23220  (Online Only)
Do you feel like no matter what you do, you keep ending up in the same place with the same problems? Maybe you’re trying to manage anxiety, depression, or anger. It could be a past trauma or an ongoing battle with substance use, which can also impact your job, your relationships, etc. Feeling lost, overwhelmed, or stuck can make daily life a struggle, not to mention the pain of feeling disconnected from who you really are or want to be. I believe we all can grow beyond old patterns, reactions, and less healthy ways of coping so we can experience emotional security, confident connection, and lasting recovery.
Do you feel like no matter what you do, you keep ending up in the same place with the same problems? Maybe you’re trying to manage anxiety, depression, or anger. It could be a past trauma or an ongoing battle with substance use, which can also impact your job, your relationships, etc. Feeling lost, overwhelmed, or stuck can make daily life a struggle, not to mention the pain of feeling disconnected from who you really are or want to be. I believe we all can grow beyond old patterns, reactions, and less healthy ways of coping so we can experience emotional security, confident connection, and lasting recovery.
(804) 587-8906 View (804) 587-8906
Photo of Nicole Morgan - Commonwealth Clinical Services, LLP, PsyD, Psychologist
Commonwealth Clinical Services, LLP
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, VA 23005
We at CCS work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services for adults, adolescents, and children that focus on trauma and PTSD, depression, grief counseling, parenting support, couples counseling and beyond. We provide therapy services to address: Trauma and PTSD, Military and Veteran Concerns, First Responder Concerns (Law Enforcement, Fire, etc.), Depression and Anxiety, Post-Partum Concerns, Stress Management, Substance Use Issues, Mood Disorders and Daily Life Stressors/Adjustment Issues. We also provide psychological assessments and testing.
We at CCS work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services for adults, adolescents, and children that focus on trauma and PTSD, depression, grief counseling, parenting support, couples counseling and beyond. We provide therapy services to address: Trauma and PTSD, Military and Veteran Concerns, First Responder Concerns (Law Enforcement, Fire, etc.), Depression and Anxiety, Post-Partum Concerns, Stress Management, Substance Use Issues, Mood Disorders and Daily Life Stressors/Adjustment Issues. We also provide psychological assessments and testing.
(804) 451-6766 View (804) 451-6766

See more therapy options for Courtland

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.