Alcohol Use Therapists in Bolton, ON

Photo of Avery McDonald, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Bolton, ON
Avery McDonald
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bolton, ON L7E
I'm a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) member under supervision by Denise Mariani and currently practicing at The Story Isn't Over in Bolton, ON. I work collaboratively with teenagers and adults to process emotional experiences and cope with anxiety, depression, guilt, shame, self-esteem, trauma and relational stressors. Unprocessed experiences can lead to a greater manifestation of abandonment, self-destructive behaviours and impact our well-being.
I'm a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) member under supervision by Denise Mariani and currently practicing at The Story Isn't Over in Bolton, ON. I work collaboratively with teenagers and adults to process emotional experiences and cope with anxiety, depression, guilt, shame, self-esteem, trauma and relational stressors. Unprocessed experiences can lead to a greater manifestation of abandonment, self-destructive behaviours and impact our well-being.
(289) 723-3660 View (289) 723-3660
Photo of Sarah Palozzi, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Bolton, ON
Sarah Palozzi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BA, BEd
Verified Verified
Bolton, ON L7E
Do you feel like your life is stuck on autopilot, but you can’t figure out why or what to do to change things? This often stems from a disconnection from ourselves, which, in turn, hinders our ability to connect to others and the world around us. As an adult, you may be overworking and engaging in negative self-talk, while children and teenagers may experience a more general sense of confusion, sadness, and frustration with the world. I believe we all have the answers to living our most joyous and embodied lives—we just need to create the right conditions for our truth to shine.
Do you feel like your life is stuck on autopilot, but you can’t figure out why or what to do to change things? This often stems from a disconnection from ourselves, which, in turn, hinders our ability to connect to others and the world around us. As an adult, you may be overworking and engaging in negative self-talk, while children and teenagers may experience a more general sense of confusion, sadness, and frustration with the world. I believe we all have the answers to living our most joyous and embodied lives—we just need to create the right conditions for our truth to shine.
(289) 273-2926 View (289) 273-2926
Photo of Giuseppe Parziale, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Bolton, ON
Giuseppe Parziale
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bolton, ON L7E
Are you feeling lost and stuck? Do you believe that your "life compass" has stopped working and not sure how to navigate your life moving forward? Are you feeling unheard or having a hard time expressing how you feel at the moment? Do you believe that your unique traumatic experiences have taken away your resilience and ability to effectively cope without relying on temporary solutions which down the road may have contributed to confusing you more, and making your relationships more challenging? You are not alone if you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health challenges trauma has brought into your life.
Are you feeling lost and stuck? Do you believe that your "life compass" has stopped working and not sure how to navigate your life moving forward? Are you feeling unheard or having a hard time expressing how you feel at the moment? Do you believe that your unique traumatic experiences have taken away your resilience and ability to effectively cope without relying on temporary solutions which down the road may have contributed to confusing you more, and making your relationships more challenging? You are not alone if you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health challenges trauma has brought into your life.
(289) 273-4335 View (289) 273-4335
Photo of Stephanie Peluso, Registered Social Worker in Bolton, ON
Stephanie Peluso
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton, ON L7E
Hi! I am so glad that you are here. The decision to begin therapy is often the first step towards positive change, improved relationships and feeling better. I understand that life can bring us suffering, pain, loss, and other experiences that we oftentimes struggle to manage. My goal as a therapist is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain and find hope to feel better.
Hi! I am so glad that you are here. The decision to begin therapy is often the first step towards positive change, improved relationships and feeling better. I understand that life can bring us suffering, pain, loss, and other experiences that we oftentimes struggle to manage. My goal as a therapist is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain and find hope to feel better.
(289) 401-5479 View (289) 401-5479
Photo of Mitch McGoey, Registered Psychotherapist in Bolton, ON
Mitch McGoey
Registered Psychotherapist, BFA, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton, ON L7E
Feeling uneasy about seeing a therapist? I get it. My approach is private, confidential, and tailored to meet individuals where they are at. I’m here to create a space where you can be yourself without judgment. Along with a Master's Degree in Counselling Psychology, and a Bachelor's in Fine Art, I have a Diploma in Welding, and my background and experience working in the trades allow me to understand and appreciate the unique challenges that come from a variety of workplaces, including as a welder, over a decade in the restaurant industry, and as an outreach worker for people experiencing homelessness.
Feeling uneasy about seeing a therapist? I get it. My approach is private, confidential, and tailored to meet individuals where they are at. I’m here to create a space where you can be yourself without judgment. Along with a Master's Degree in Counselling Psychology, and a Bachelor's in Fine Art, I have a Diploma in Welding, and my background and experience working in the trades allow me to understand and appreciate the unique challenges that come from a variety of workplaces, including as a welder, over a decade in the restaurant industry, and as an outreach worker for people experiencing homelessness.
(249) 503-3882 View (249) 503-3882
Photo of Anthony Michael Yacub, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Bolton, ON
Anthony Michael Yacub
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton, ON L7E
With a degree in economics and work experience in the financial industry and education, I specialize in treating people with mental health challenges who belong in positions of trust, management, and role transition. In addition, I also work with adolescents, pre-teen, teen, and young adults with mental health challenges balancing role transitions, decision-making, and psychodynamic growth. I look forward to working with you on your therapeutic journey. Please get in touch with me as I offer a 15-minute complimentary consultation and only see clients by appointment.
With a degree in economics and work experience in the financial industry and education, I specialize in treating people with mental health challenges who belong in positions of trust, management, and role transition. In addition, I also work with adolescents, pre-teen, teen, and young adults with mental health challenges balancing role transitions, decision-making, and psychodynamic growth. I look forward to working with you on your therapeutic journey. Please get in touch with me as I offer a 15-minute complimentary consultation and only see clients by appointment.
(289) 797-6755 View (289) 797-6755
Photo of Tracey Hand-Breckenridge, Registered Psychotherapist in Bolton, ON
Tracey Hand-Breckenridge
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bolton, ON L7E  (Online Only)
Does it feel like there is 'something' missing in your life? Is an important relationship troubled? Has depression or anxiety become a huge weight for you? These things, PTSD/trauma due to COVID-19 or other reasons, chronic or palliative illness can all have an enormous impact on your life and those around you--and there are approaches that will help you manage. Whether your needs are emotional, psychological or social in nature, or are seeking care that is spiritually integrated or faith based, I will help you address them in the way that is best for you. Peace, purpose, wellness are found in the balance of mind, body and soul.
Does it feel like there is 'something' missing in your life? Is an important relationship troubled? Has depression or anxiety become a huge weight for you? These things, PTSD/trauma due to COVID-19 or other reasons, chronic or palliative illness can all have an enormous impact on your life and those around you--and there are approaches that will help you manage. Whether your needs are emotional, psychological or social in nature, or are seeking care that is spiritually integrated or faith based, I will help you address them in the way that is best for you. Peace, purpose, wellness are found in the balance of mind, body and soul.
(519) 940-4357 View (519) 940-4357
Photo of Jordan Smith, Registered Social Worker in Bolton, ON
Jordan Smith
Registered Social Worker, BaSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton, ON L7C
Jordan's personal involvement with the mental health system in Canada has helped her to understand the overwhelming feelings and stigma that can so often lead someone to shy away from seeking support. Jordan also knows as the expert of their own lives, clients already have an abundance of resiliency and coping strategies when they come into the office. Working through therapy, clients are able to redefine, reclaim, and reconnect to their strength and abilities to heal.
Jordan's personal involvement with the mental health system in Canada has helped her to understand the overwhelming feelings and stigma that can so often lead someone to shy away from seeking support. Jordan also knows as the expert of their own lives, clients already have an abundance of resiliency and coping strategies when they come into the office. Working through therapy, clients are able to redefine, reclaim, and reconnect to their strength and abilities to heal.
(226) 917-9434 View (226) 917-9434
Photo of Jae Steele, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Bolton, ON
Jae Steele
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BHSc, RP(Q), RHN
Verified Verified
Bolton, ON L7E  (Online Only)
I welcome clients looking for support related to ADHD/neurodivergence (including management, identity, masking, and burnout), anxiety, grief/loss, LGBTQ+ identity, pregnancy, parenting, relationships (dating, partnership, separation), and other life transitions. I delight in working collaboratively with clients in holistic and trauma-informed ways, incorporating humour and mindfulness. I endeavour to be humble, with a decolonized, intersectional and otherwise anti-oppressive stance. I value individual identity and collectivism/community and support diverse genders, ethical nonmonogamy, harm-reduction and various recovery pathways.
I welcome clients looking for support related to ADHD/neurodivergence (including management, identity, masking, and burnout), anxiety, grief/loss, LGBTQ+ identity, pregnancy, parenting, relationships (dating, partnership, separation), and other life transitions. I delight in working collaboratively with clients in holistic and trauma-informed ways, incorporating humour and mindfulness. I endeavour to be humble, with a decolonized, intersectional and otherwise anti-oppressive stance. I value individual identity and collectivism/community and support diverse genders, ethical nonmonogamy, harm-reduction and various recovery pathways.
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Photo of Amy Harrison, Registered Social Worker in Bolton, ON
Amy Harrison
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton, ON L7C
I am a masters level Mental Health therapist who has worked with individuals and groups for more than 15 years. I am passionate about helping people achieve their greatest potential through overcoming their inner self-critic and move through difficult life circumstances with strength and resiliency. I believe strongly in our ability to heal and for support in order to grow and thrive. My therapeutic approach is evidence-based, strengths-focused and client-centered. I have specialized training in perinatal mental health, women's health, emotion-focused and cognitive therapy, mindful training for emotional resilience and EMDR.
I am a masters level Mental Health therapist who has worked with individuals and groups for more than 15 years. I am passionate about helping people achieve their greatest potential through overcoming their inner self-critic and move through difficult life circumstances with strength and resiliency. I believe strongly in our ability to heal and for support in order to grow and thrive. My therapeutic approach is evidence-based, strengths-focused and client-centered. I have specialized training in perinatal mental health, women's health, emotion-focused and cognitive therapy, mindful training for emotional resilience and EMDR.
(548) 457-1580 View (548) 457-1580
Photo of Kathleen Killen, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Bolton, ON
Kathleen Killen
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bolton, ON L7E
Imagine how you would feel if you could sit down with your partner, discuss a challenging topic, and find a way forward together. Wouldn’t that help you feel so much safer and more secure, no matter what you were going through? Longing for these types of feelings and interactions in your relationship is perfectly natural. In fact, the fact that you are reading this shows that you have the desire and potential to grow.
Imagine how you would feel if you could sit down with your partner, discuss a challenging topic, and find a way forward together. Wouldn’t that help you feel so much safer and more secure, no matter what you were going through? Longing for these types of feelings and interactions in your relationship is perfectly natural. In fact, the fact that you are reading this shows that you have the desire and potential to grow.
(289) 205-7558 View (289) 205-7558
Photo of Carley Rawes Centre in Bolton, ON
Carley Rawes Centre
MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton, ON L7E  (Online Only)
Feeling like something isn't right in your life? Are you, or is someone you love in crisis? Are you consumed by worry, overwhelmed, unable to cope, exhausted, struggling at school, work or a relationship? Depression, anxiety anger or addictions rob you of joy, make you feel numb, isolated and that life is darker and far more challenging than it should be? We help people and families just like you to find hope. Internal Family Systems, EMDR and cognitive behavioural therapy are some of our approaches. Carley was my young, talented, vibrant, beautiful cousin, and it is in her memory that this centre was founded; that's her picture.
Feeling like something isn't right in your life? Are you, or is someone you love in crisis? Are you consumed by worry, overwhelmed, unable to cope, exhausted, struggling at school, work or a relationship? Depression, anxiety anger or addictions rob you of joy, make you feel numb, isolated and that life is darker and far more challenging than it should be? We help people and families just like you to find hope. Internal Family Systems, EMDR and cognitive behavioural therapy are some of our approaches. Carley was my young, talented, vibrant, beautiful cousin, and it is in her memory that this centre was founded; that's her picture.
(226) 641-6805 View (226) 641-6805

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of First Step Men's Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Bolton, ON
First Step Men's Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Woodbridge, ON L4L  (Online Only)
Our specializations include: men's issues, sexual addiction, ADHD, anger management, behavioural issues, divorce, infidelity, alcohol use, self-esteem, stress, sex therapy, sexual abuse, substance use, trauma and PTSD, and anxiety.
Stuck. Isolated. Broken. Powerless. Lost. Hopeless. Many men often face unique challenges and experiences that can be difficult to navigate on their own. Whether it's societal expectations around masculinity, relationship issues, stress, anxiety, past trauma, or an addiction, men may feel like they have to "tough it out" and resolve with their problems on their own without support or guidance. Seeking therapy can be a powerful way for men to address these challenges and develop the skills and tools they need to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives. Book a free 20-minute consultation by clicking the "Website" button to get started.
Our specializations include: men's issues, sexual addiction, ADHD, anger management, behavioural issues, divorce, infidelity, alcohol use, self-esteem, stress, sex therapy, sexual abuse, substance use, trauma and PTSD, and anxiety.
Stuck. Isolated. Broken. Powerless. Lost. Hopeless. Many men often face unique challenges and experiences that can be difficult to navigate on their own. Whether it's societal expectations around masculinity, relationship issues, stress, anxiety, past trauma, or an addiction, men may feel like they have to "tough it out" and resolve with their problems on their own without support or guidance. Seeking therapy can be a powerful way for men to address these challenges and develop the skills and tools they need to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives. Book a free 20-minute consultation by clicking the "Website" button to get started.
(289) 216-5075 View (289) 216-5075
Photo of First Step Men's Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Bolton, ON
First Step Men's Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MDiv
Verified Verified
Brampton, ON L6X  (Online Only)
Our specializations include: grief, addiction, ADHD, alcohol use, depression, anxiety, couples counselling, career counselling, anger management, men's issues, depression, sexual addiction, infidelity, trauma and PTSD, life transitions, and self-esteem.
Men that come to see me usually stuck, feeling paralyzed, stressed, anxious, depressed or directionless. You may question whether you are a good son, father, or partner. Perhaps you are struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction, grief, trauma, or just feeling disconnected from yourself and with others. Reaching out to a qualified therapist means taking the "first step". Many men try to solve their challenges on their own, with limited or short-term success. Often, these challenges can get more challenging and problematic. Take the first step today! No waitlist - Click the "website" to book a free 20-minute consultation today!
Our specializations include: grief, addiction, ADHD, alcohol use, depression, anxiety, couples counselling, career counselling, anger management, men's issues, depression, sexual addiction, infidelity, trauma and PTSD, life transitions, and self-esteem.
Men that come to see me usually stuck, feeling paralyzed, stressed, anxious, depressed or directionless. You may question whether you are a good son, father, or partner. Perhaps you are struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction, grief, trauma, or just feeling disconnected from yourself and with others. Reaching out to a qualified therapist means taking the "first step". Many men try to solve their challenges on their own, with limited or short-term success. Often, these challenges can get more challenging and problematic. Take the first step today! No waitlist - Click the "website" to book a free 20-minute consultation today!
(289) 312-4660 View (289) 312-4660
Photo of First Step Men's Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Bolton, ON
First Step Men's Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4H  (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 Viral Vyas, Registered Social Worker in Bolton, ON
Viral Vyas
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6V  (Online Only)
I have a wide range of experience supporting clients experiencing Abuse, Anxiety, Anger, Addiction, Depression, Oppression, Low self-esteem, Stress, Relationship/marital issues & Parenting issues. I have provided support to a wide variety of clients from various socio-economic, cultural, ethnic, and religious backgrounds. I am privileged to have worked for many years in the community with clients involved with Criminal Justice, Family Court and Child Welfare Agencies in Canada and internationally. I am member of Ontario Association of Mental Health Professionals (OAMHP), National Organization of Forensic Social Work (NOFSW).
I have a wide range of experience supporting clients experiencing Abuse, Anxiety, Anger, Addiction, Depression, Oppression, Low self-esteem, Stress, Relationship/marital issues & Parenting issues. I have provided support to a wide variety of clients from various socio-economic, cultural, ethnic, and religious backgrounds. I am privileged to have worked for many years in the community with clients involved with Criminal Justice, Family Court and Child Welfare Agencies in Canada and internationally. I am member of Ontario Association of Mental Health Professionals (OAMHP), National Organization of Forensic Social Work (NOFSW).
(289) 236-0195 View (289) 236-0195
Photo of Cristian Renzi, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Bolton, ON
Cristian Renzi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodbridge, ON L4H
Thank you for taking the time to make time for yourself! Therapy can be a difficult and scary process, but I am more than happy to walk alongside you on this journey. My approach to therapy is that therapy can be extremely versatile, and should be tailored to fit you like a brand new outfit. In a non-judgemental and shame free environment, we are able to explore these needs in therapy and help you reach the goals you set out to achieve. Sometimes, all we need is a safe space to explore ourselves, and what has happened in our lives to land us in our current place in the world. My hope is to provide exactly that.
Thank you for taking the time to make time for yourself! Therapy can be a difficult and scary process, but I am more than happy to walk alongside you on this journey. My approach to therapy is that therapy can be extremely versatile, and should be tailored to fit you like a brand new outfit. In a non-judgemental and shame free environment, we are able to explore these needs in therapy and help you reach the goals you set out to achieve. Sometimes, all we need is a safe space to explore ourselves, and what has happened in our lives to land us in our current place in the world. My hope is to provide exactly that.
(905) 553-9255 View (905) 553-9255
Photo of C.S. Counselling & Consulting Services, Registered Social Worker in Bolton, ON
C.S. Counselling & Consulting Services
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Brampton, ON L6R
Everyone embarks on unique journeys involving various overwhelming challenges including emotional and mental health issues, substance abuse and relationship issues. My colleagues and I fully understand that when two or more people cope with similar circumstances, no two minds function alike. Therefore, my services instill clients with how to love themselves through comprehensive, mental, emotional and spiritual enrichment regardless of their age, social or ethnic background, or physical capacities. Overall, the greatest satisfaction comes from seeing clients reach self-actualization by gaining strength, confidence and empowerment to confront their own inner conflicts "for we all smile in the same language".
Everyone embarks on unique journeys involving various overwhelming challenges including emotional and mental health issues, substance abuse and relationship issues. My colleagues and I fully understand that when two or more people cope with similar circumstances, no two minds function alike. Therefore, my services instill clients with how to love themselves through comprehensive, mental, emotional and spiritual enrichment regardless of their age, social or ethnic background, or physical capacities. Overall, the greatest satisfaction comes from seeing clients reach self-actualization by gaining strength, confidence and empowerment to confront their own inner conflicts "for we all smile in the same language".
(416) 409-8045 View (416) 409-8045
Photo of The Thoughts, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor in Bolton, ON
The Thoughts
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, ACWD
Verified Verified
Brampton, ON L6S
The Thoughts is an outpatient rehab services where help is provided through counselling and therapy to those who need help to manage their addictions (substance / behaviour) and anger issues. The Thoughts helps its clients of all age groups to identify their triggers and develop coping skills to manage their addictions (substance / behaviour) and anger.
The Thoughts is an outpatient rehab services where help is provided through counselling and therapy to those who need help to manage their addictions (substance / behaviour) and anger issues. The Thoughts helps its clients of all age groups to identify their triggers and develop coping skills to manage their addictions (substance / behaviour) and anger.
(647) 930-1467 View (647) 930-1467
Photo of Maria Ahmed, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Bolton, ON
Maria Ahmed
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6P
We all experience difficult encounters that leave us questioning our world view or even ourselves. Finding the right support is a difficult task and can oftentimes be a daunting experience. I aim to create safe emotional spaces to help, explore, cope with, or overcome difficulties towards acceptance, serenity, inner peace, empowerment, and healthier relationships. I believe that difficult experiences can either break us down or build us up. I have a Master of Arts Degree in Addictions Counselling and my methods include narrative therapy, CBT, CPT and DBT.
We all experience difficult encounters that leave us questioning our world view or even ourselves. Finding the right support is a difficult task and can oftentimes be a daunting experience. I aim to create safe emotional spaces to help, explore, cope with, or overcome difficulties towards acceptance, serenity, inner peace, empowerment, and healthier relationships. I believe that difficult experiences can either break us down or build us up. I have a Master of Arts Degree in Addictions Counselling and my methods include narrative therapy, CBT, CPT and DBT.
(289) 802-2297 View (289) 802-2297

See more therapy options for Bolton

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.