Alcohol Use Therapists in Markham, ON

Photo of First Step Men's Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Markham, ON
First Step Men's Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3T  (Online Only)
Our specialities include: ADHD, men's issues, career guidance, sexual addiction, grief, video game addiction, gambling, alcohol use, addiction, infidelity, anger management, behavioural issues, anxiety, and depression.
Men often carry heavy burdens silently, feeling pressured to hide their struggles. But inside, they're hurting. They suffer with tough emotions like sadness, anxiety, addiction, and past traumas. Therapy is like a safe harbor in a storm. It's a place where guys can open up in a safe, non-judgemental space. It helps them untangle their feelings, heal old wounds, and discover their true selves. My role is to support men with the tools and insight to tackle life's hurdles with strength and confidence. Whether its your first time seeking help or you are looking for something new, we are here to support you. Book a free consult today!
Our specialities include: ADHD, men's issues, career guidance, sexual addiction, grief, video game addiction, gambling, alcohol use, addiction, infidelity, anger management, behavioural issues, anxiety, and depression.
Men often carry heavy burdens silently, feeling pressured to hide their struggles. But inside, they're hurting. They suffer with tough emotions like sadness, anxiety, addiction, and past traumas. Therapy is like a safe harbor in a storm. It's a place where guys can open up in a safe, non-judgemental space. It helps them untangle their feelings, heal old wounds, and discover their true selves. My role is to support men with the tools and insight to tackle life's hurdles with strength and confidence. Whether its your first time seeking help or you are looking for something new, we are here to support you. Book a free consult today!
(289) 903-0965 View (289) 903-0965
Photo of First Step Men's Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Markham, ON
First Step Men's Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3P
Our specializations include: Borderline Personality, grief, life transitions, alcohol use, Narcissistic Personality, trauma, OCD, ADHD, behavioural issues, anger management, chronic impulsivity, anxiety, infidelity, depression, dual diagnosis, and men's issues.
Men often face pressure to suppress their emotions, making therapy a courageous act of defiance. As a therapist, I specialize in guiding men through reconnecting with their emotions and inner selves. Many men seek deeper connections and understanding, aiming to enhance relationships and daily life. No matter what you are struggling with, my goal is to help you understand your underlying motivations and develop healthier coping mechanisms. With a focus on avoidant attachment styles, I provide a safe space for exploration and empowerment, aiming to shift patterns and foster self-discovery. Book a free 20-minute consult to learn more!
Our specializations include: Borderline Personality, grief, life transitions, alcohol use, Narcissistic Personality, trauma, OCD, ADHD, behavioural issues, anger management, chronic impulsivity, anxiety, infidelity, depression, dual diagnosis, and men's issues.
Men often face pressure to suppress their emotions, making therapy a courageous act of defiance. As a therapist, I specialize in guiding men through reconnecting with their emotions and inner selves. Many men seek deeper connections and understanding, aiming to enhance relationships and daily life. No matter what you are struggling with, my goal is to help you understand your underlying motivations and develop healthier coping mechanisms. With a focus on avoidant attachment styles, I provide a safe space for exploration and empowerment, aiming to shift patterns and foster self-discovery. Book a free 20-minute consult to learn more!
(343) 633-2702 View (343) 633-2702
Photo of Dyshni Sritharan, Registered Social Worker in Markham, ON
Dyshni Sritharan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R  (Online Only)
“What will they think, what will they say?" Reading that may have given you an instant reaction. If you had immigrant parents/caregivers, it most likely was an unpleasant reaction. I work with adult children of immigrants to heal cycles of pain and suffering. A difficult childhood or family experiences forced you to grow up quickly and you had to develop the roles of being strong & independent. I know the pain of holding everything in, not asking for help and minimizing your needs only to feel strong externally and struggle internally. You deserve more than surviving, heal so you can thrive!
“What will they think, what will they say?" Reading that may have given you an instant reaction. If you had immigrant parents/caregivers, it most likely was an unpleasant reaction. I work with adult children of immigrants to heal cycles of pain and suffering. A difficult childhood or family experiences forced you to grow up quickly and you had to develop the roles of being strong & independent. I know the pain of holding everything in, not asking for help and minimizing your needs only to feel strong externally and struggle internally. You deserve more than surviving, heal so you can thrive!
(437) 747-4821 View (437) 747-4821
Photo of Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services, Registered Psychotherapist in Markham, ON
Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L6C
Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services values creating a therapeutic space that is culturally sensitive, non-judgmental, and client-centered. We are a team of dedicated psychotherapists, social workers and masters level interns, who bring a variety of clinical expertise to support our clients with different needs. We strive to always provide clients with a safe and private experience where they are open to sharing their stories with us. At Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services, our therapists are devoted to creating individualized treatment plans that fit your goals and empower you to make meaningful changes for a fulfilling life.
Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services values creating a therapeutic space that is culturally sensitive, non-judgmental, and client-centered. We are a team of dedicated psychotherapists, social workers and masters level interns, who bring a variety of clinical expertise to support our clients with different needs. We strive to always provide clients with a safe and private experience where they are open to sharing their stories with us. At Positive Minds Psychotherapy Services, our therapists are devoted to creating individualized treatment plans that fit your goals and empower you to make meaningful changes for a fulfilling life.
(647) 643-5800 View (647) 643-5800
Photo of Stacy Wen-Chiung Hsu, Registered Social Worker in Markham, ON
Stacy Wen-Chiung Hsu
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
No Waiting List, Quick Response. Do you feel anxious and frustrated when things do not work out? Do you have a hard time, you may feel lonely and isolated, and you don’t know who can you turn to? Do you have a safe and non-judgmental space to work with these emotions and challenges? It always takes encouragement and confidence to deal with these, and I believe my skills and experiences could empower you to work through these difficulties to make positive changes together. As a member of Hopewoods Psychotherapy, we aim to provide professional mental health services for the Chinese community in Toronto.
No Waiting List, Quick Response. Do you feel anxious and frustrated when things do not work out? Do you have a hard time, you may feel lonely and isolated, and you don’t know who can you turn to? Do you have a safe and non-judgmental space to work with these emotions and challenges? It always takes encouragement and confidence to deal with these, and I believe my skills and experiences could empower you to work through these difficulties to make positive changes together. As a member of Hopewoods Psychotherapy, we aim to provide professional mental health services for the Chinese community in Toronto.
(416) 209-2068 View (416) 209-2068
Photo of Bennett & Associates - Lisa M. Bennett, Registered Psychotherapist in Markham, ON
Bennett & Associates - Lisa M. Bennett
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L3R
My goal in therapy is to engage in a collaborative relationship that is focused on what you need from therapy. I see you as the expert of yourself and I work with you to facilitate a process of discovery, finding out what you need and using my expertise to help you meet some of those needs. Essentially, my aim in therapy is for you to feel better than you feel now. If you are exhausted, can't do this on your own, and ready for some change in your life then I invite you to contact me today.
My goal in therapy is to engage in a collaborative relationship that is focused on what you need from therapy. I see you as the expert of yourself and I work with you to facilitate a process of discovery, finding out what you need and using my expertise to help you meet some of those needs. Essentially, my aim in therapy is for you to feel better than you feel now. If you are exhausted, can't do this on your own, and ready for some change in your life then I invite you to contact me today.
(855) 912-3019 View (855) 912-3019
Photo of Anujah Posarajah, Registered Psychotherapist in Markham, ON
Anujah Posarajah
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L3R
Anujah is a Registered Psychotherapist, who has worked with children, adolescents aged 13 -19 & adults of various ages, and cultures in different settings, including: hospitals, non-profit organizations, private practice, and schools. She holds a Masters in Clinical Psychology and has been practicing for 7 years in the province of Ontario. Over the years Anujah has worked closely with clients struggling with addictions, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, chronic stress, anger management, life transitions, marital counselling, relationship navigation, parental guidance, and childhood trauma.
Anujah is a Registered Psychotherapist, who has worked with children, adolescents aged 13 -19 & adults of various ages, and cultures in different settings, including: hospitals, non-profit organizations, private practice, and schools. She holds a Masters in Clinical Psychology and has been practicing for 7 years in the province of Ontario. Over the years Anujah has worked closely with clients struggling with addictions, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, chronic stress, anger management, life transitions, marital counselling, relationship navigation, parental guidance, and childhood trauma.
(289) 806-5246 View (289) 806-5246
Photo of Jessica Andrade, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Markham, ON
Jessica Andrade
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP (Q), BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3S  (Online Only)
Life is sometimes complicated and can leave us feeling overwhelmed, depressed or anxious. You might cope by isolating yourself or adopting some unhealthy habits and behaviours. Maybe your struggles are beginning to feel unmanageable and you just need someone on your side. The good news is that reaching out for help is the first step in your healing journey. I believe that you already possess the skills needed to live up to your full potential and improve your quality of life. My goal is to help you feel comfortable enough to share your worries and anxieties with me so that we can create a sustainable and positive plan of action.
Life is sometimes complicated and can leave us feeling overwhelmed, depressed or anxious. You might cope by isolating yourself or adopting some unhealthy habits and behaviours. Maybe your struggles are beginning to feel unmanageable and you just need someone on your side. The good news is that reaching out for help is the first step in your healing journey. I believe that you already possess the skills needed to live up to your full potential and improve your quality of life. My goal is to help you feel comfortable enough to share your worries and anxieties with me so that we can create a sustainable and positive plan of action.
(289) 277-6448 View (289) 277-6448
Photo of Niyamma Therapy- Devyani Sibal, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Markham, ON
Niyamma Therapy- Devyani Sibal
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA Hon, RP-Q, MACP, ECE
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Markham, ON L6G  (Online Only)
Niyamma Therapy is accepting new clients! If you are feeling lost, in the need for support or guidance, or simply want to better your existing circumstances, Niyamma Therapy can help! Niyamma is a play on the Sanskrit word “Niyam”, which means “principle”. Everyone comes from a different walk of life, different circumstances, and that is why the “principles” which they follow for fulfillment, enlightenment, and happiness vary. At Niyamma Therapy, a variety of modalities and approaches are used however there is an emphasis on Client-Focused Therapy (CFT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and Narrative Therapy (NT).
Niyamma Therapy is accepting new clients! If you are feeling lost, in the need for support or guidance, or simply want to better your existing circumstances, Niyamma Therapy can help! Niyamma is a play on the Sanskrit word “Niyam”, which means “principle”. Everyone comes from a different walk of life, different circumstances, and that is why the “principles” which they follow for fulfillment, enlightenment, and happiness vary. At Niyamma Therapy, a variety of modalities and approaches are used however there is an emphasis on Client-Focused Therapy (CFT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and Narrative Therapy (NT).
(289) 205-1508 View (289) 205-1508
Photo of Chris Onumejor, Registered Psychotherapist in Markham, ON
Chris Onumejor
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
As a therapist, I offer therapeutic interventions and support for issues that may include Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Life transitions, Trauma, Relationships/Marital issues and ADHD Coaching to individuals, couples & families dealing with a variety of life issues. I also help managers to manage stress and maintain a healthy work/life balance. My approach integrates techniques from modalities like EFT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, (IFS), CBT and Narrative Therapy etc. I provide a non-judgmental and confidential safe space where we explore to find answers to lingering questions.
As a therapist, I offer therapeutic interventions and support for issues that may include Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Life transitions, Trauma, Relationships/Marital issues and ADHD Coaching to individuals, couples & families dealing with a variety of life issues. I also help managers to manage stress and maintain a healthy work/life balance. My approach integrates techniques from modalities like EFT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, (IFS), CBT and Narrative Therapy etc. I provide a non-judgmental and confidential safe space where we explore to find answers to lingering questions.
(289) 277-5779 View (289) 277-5779
Photo of Bohan Zhang, Registered Psychotherapist in Markham, ON
Bohan Zhang
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L3R  (Online Only)
It is ok to be not 100% sure of what is going on. I am here to support you with anything that life throws your way: life changes, traumatic events, anxiety, feeling lost, mood swings with or without reason... I am dedicated to creating a safe and welcoming space for people from all walks of life and cultural backgrounds. Through the integrative use of different therapeutic disciplines (CBT, EFT, IFS, etc.) I help people discover and utilize their own strengths and resources to promote growth and healing. All goals and objectives in therapy will be set with the client to ensure that they are both satisfying and realistic.
It is ok to be not 100% sure of what is going on. I am here to support you with anything that life throws your way: life changes, traumatic events, anxiety, feeling lost, mood swings with or without reason... I am dedicated to creating a safe and welcoming space for people from all walks of life and cultural backgrounds. Through the integrative use of different therapeutic disciplines (CBT, EFT, IFS, etc.) I help people discover and utilize their own strengths and resources to promote growth and healing. All goals and objectives in therapy will be set with the client to ensure that they are both satisfying and realistic.
(289) 302-3607 View (289) 302-3607
Photo of Brad Young, Registered Social Worker in Markham, ON
Brad Young
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3P
Perhaps you’re here searching for growth or change in your life, your career, your relationships, or managing challenging situations. Together, I’m confident that we can thoroughly explore your motivation for growth and implement strategies to live your best life. My name is Brad Young, and I am a Master of Social Work (MSW) and a Registered Social Worker (RSW). I have been providing counseling within hospital and community settings in Toronto and Vancouver for 12 years in following areas: adult and youth mental health, developmental disabilities, medicine, maternity, oncology, intensive care unit (ICU), and palliative care.
Perhaps you’re here searching for growth or change in your life, your career, your relationships, or managing challenging situations. Together, I’m confident that we can thoroughly explore your motivation for growth and implement strategies to live your best life. My name is Brad Young, and I am a Master of Social Work (MSW) and a Registered Social Worker (RSW). I have been providing counseling within hospital and community settings in Toronto and Vancouver for 12 years in following areas: adult and youth mental health, developmental disabilities, medicine, maternity, oncology, intensive care unit (ICU), and palliative care.
(289) 302-8513 View (289) 302-8513
Photo of Schurmann Counselling & Life Coaching, Registered Social Worker in Markham, ON
Schurmann Counselling & Life Coaching
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3P
As a counsellor, life coach and ADHD specialist, I draw on extensive experience to customize treatment that address each client’s mental, emotional, spiritual, relational and social needs. Unlike many counsellors who only focus on life issues, my expertise in life coaching is an additional specialty that benefits clients. My proven counselling techniques and practical life coaching tools provide quick results and equip clients with the know-how to self-manage their lives more effectively. I found that the majority of people need life skills training, whether it’s dealing with stress, anger or looking to improve their relationships.
As a counsellor, life coach and ADHD specialist, I draw on extensive experience to customize treatment that address each client’s mental, emotional, spiritual, relational and social needs. Unlike many counsellors who only focus on life issues, my expertise in life coaching is an additional specialty that benefits clients. My proven counselling techniques and practical life coaching tools provide quick results and equip clients with the know-how to self-manage their lives more effectively. I found that the majority of people need life skills training, whether it’s dealing with stress, anger or looking to improve their relationships.
(289) 207-6735 View (289) 207-6735
Photo of Counsellor Samara Tomaz, Counsellor in Markham, ON
Counsellor Samara Tomaz
Counsellor, BSc, PgD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
How about improving your mental health? Counselling has a lot of benefits if done with a qualified professional. My approach is Phenomenological and Humanistic-Existential. I consider with empathy and active listening that every person has experiences in a unique way and has the possibility to resignify their challenges and achieve a higher life quality. I also use the Brief Focal technique, which prioritizes the planning, strategy and intervention in the appointments. I'm available to answer all your questions and start this process with you.
How about improving your mental health? Counselling has a lot of benefits if done with a qualified professional. My approach is Phenomenological and Humanistic-Existential. I consider with empathy and active listening that every person has experiences in a unique way and has the possibility to resignify their challenges and achieve a higher life quality. I also use the Brief Focal technique, which prioritizes the planning, strategy and intervention in the appointments. I'm available to answer all your questions and start this process with you.
(289) 275-4059 View (289) 275-4059
Photo of Ian Andrew Wine, Registered Social Worker in Markham, ON
Ian Andrew Wine
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L3R
With over two decades of experience in mental health and psychotherapy services, I specialize in working with tweens, teens, adults and families across a range of mental health and wellness areas including: Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Stress Management, School Based Challenges, Parenting, Relationship difficulties, etc.
With over two decades of experience in mental health and psychotherapy services, I specialize in working with tweens, teens, adults and families across a range of mental health and wellness areas including: Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Stress Management, School Based Challenges, Parenting, Relationship difficulties, etc.
(647) 360-9642 View (647) 360-9642
Photo of Gauri Mathur, Registered Psychotherapist in Markham, ON
Gauri Mathur
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MPhil, RP, CCTS(I)
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Markham, ON L6E
Mental health is a process you adopt and use in the pursuit of your chosen goals.” With my knowledge, experience and zeal to endlessly advance in the field of Psychology, I aspire to bring a positive change in the life of one and many. With my extensive experience in therapy with adults, adolescents and children, I strive to provide a safe place for clients to express themselves honestly, get to understand their true feelings, and create a therapeutic journey towards healing with all my clients.
Mental health is a process you adopt and use in the pursuit of your chosen goals.” With my knowledge, experience and zeal to endlessly advance in the field of Psychology, I aspire to bring a positive change in the life of one and many. With my extensive experience in therapy with adults, adolescents and children, I strive to provide a safe place for clients to express themselves honestly, get to understand their true feelings, and create a therapeutic journey towards healing with all my clients.
(289) 809-7014 View (289) 809-7014
Photo of Arushi Gupta, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Markham, ON
Arushi Gupta
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BHSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Markham, ON L6B  (Online Only)
I have always been a compassionate person with a deep commitment to support individuals on their journey to emotional healing and personal growth. I have a passion for mental health and am a great listener who is available to provide support to those who may need it. I am empathetic and try to address the needs of each client helping them to build resilience and insight through developing a strong therapeutic relationship with them. I create a non-judgemental environment with sensitivity towards other cultures which allows me to connect with them and work collaboratively towards achieving their goals.
I have always been a compassionate person with a deep commitment to support individuals on their journey to emotional healing and personal growth. I have a passion for mental health and am a great listener who is available to provide support to those who may need it. I am empathetic and try to address the needs of each client helping them to build resilience and insight through developing a strong therapeutic relationship with them. I create a non-judgemental environment with sensitivity towards other cultures which allows me to connect with them and work collaboratively towards achieving their goals.
(289) 277-5646 View (289) 277-5646
Photo of Mehek Chaudhry, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Markham, ON
Mehek Chaudhry
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, MSc, HBSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3S  (Online Only)
I am a passionate and dedicated registered psychotherapist (qualifying) who is committed to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues. I identify as a person of colour who can understand the challenges and struggles that arise from your worldviews and perspectives. You can expect to be welcomed into a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you will feel heard, seen, and accepted. I am sensitive to the unique challenges that individuals face.
I am a passionate and dedicated registered psychotherapist (qualifying) who is committed to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues. I identify as a person of colour who can understand the challenges and struggles that arise from your worldviews and perspectives. You can expect to be welcomed into a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you will feel heard, seen, and accepted. I am sensitive to the unique challenges that individuals face.
(289) 513-3733 View (289) 513-3733
Photo of Brittany Marshall And Associates, Registered Social Worker in Markham, ON
Brittany Marshall And Associates
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
**ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! We all experience difficulties in our lives & need a caring professional on our side! Booking a therapy session can help to reduce feelings of sadness, loneliness, stress, anxiety & overwhelm. We can help to enhance your toolbox of coping skills that you use to deal with your current thoughts/feelings & help you deal with daily challenges. We can also help to provide you with a sense of purpose, confidence & self efficacy. We take a warm, non-judgmental, collaborative & strengths-based approach to help you tap into your inner resources & ultimately help you become the best version of yourself!
**ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! We all experience difficulties in our lives & need a caring professional on our side! Booking a therapy session can help to reduce feelings of sadness, loneliness, stress, anxiety & overwhelm. We can help to enhance your toolbox of coping skills that you use to deal with your current thoughts/feelings & help you deal with daily challenges. We can also help to provide you with a sense of purpose, confidence & self efficacy. We take a warm, non-judgmental, collaborative & strengths-based approach to help you tap into your inner resources & ultimately help you become the best version of yourself!
(289) 806-0876 View (289) 806-0876
Photo of Sheri Rumack, Registered Social Worker in Markham, ON
Sheri Rumack
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L3T
Enter a place of hope, non- judgment, and solutions. I will assist you concretely, to explore issues, learn lessons, empower yourself and create the life journey of your dreams. My intervention draws upon over 30 years of clinical experience and encompasses Solution Focused, Insight Oriented, EMDR, CBT and many other proven techniques and therapeutic approaches. I am a cancer survivor and can 100% help you transform "fear" to "faith". With your physical conditions, addictions, anxiety/panic, depression, trauma, marital, divorce relationship and other issues, you will see that your past, internal dialogue, thoughts and communication skills are key.
Enter a place of hope, non- judgment, and solutions. I will assist you concretely, to explore issues, learn lessons, empower yourself and create the life journey of your dreams. My intervention draws upon over 30 years of clinical experience and encompasses Solution Focused, Insight Oriented, EMDR, CBT and many other proven techniques and therapeutic approaches. I am a cancer survivor and can 100% help you transform "fear" to "faith". With your physical conditions, addictions, anxiety/panic, depression, trauma, marital, divorce relationship and other issues, you will see that your past, internal dialogue, thoughts and communication skills are key.
(416) 875-7051 View (416) 875-7051

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Alcohol Use Counsellors

Are there specific medications for alcohol use?

There are oral medications approved to treat alcohol use disorder—such as disulfiram, acamprosate, and naltrexone, which also comes in an injectable form. These medications do help people reduce their drinking as well as avoid the problem of relapse. Naltrexone helps reduce cravings, disulfiram can make a person feel sick when they drink, and acamprosate may help ease symptoms like poor sleep and anxious feelings.

How do alcohol recovery or rehabilitation programs work?

In inpatient programs, individuals live in a facility with other patients in recovery; in outpatient programs,individuals live at home. These facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, psychologists, counselors, and psychotherapists. Staff can also include people who have recovered themselves, serving as mentors and guides. These programs may use abstinence, harm reduction, detoxification, psychotherapy, and other tools for recovery.

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 alcohol use reduce the amount of alcohol they intake. It is not abstinence-based like a 12-step program, but combining harm reduction with psychotherapy proves to be effective for many people.