Substance Use Therapists in Kingston, ON

Photo of Dave Neary - Dave Neary Registered Psychotherapist , Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MEd
Dave Neary Registered Psychotherapist
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MEd
Kingston, ON K7M
Although I work with a wide range of client issues, a few of my counseling specialties are Men's Issues, Substance Use, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Trauma, OCD, Bi-polar Disorder, Veterans, 1st Responders and L
Accepting New Clients: I am a caring and empathic psychotherapist who works from a strengths-based approach and help people to resolve troubling issues in their lives. My services are tailored to your needs. My goal is for you to live a more balanced life and to learn coping strategies to carry with you after counselling is completed. As in all counselling, we will work together to find solutions to the issues you bring to the counselling session.
Although I work with a wide range of client issues, a few of my counseling specialties are Men's Issues, Substance Use, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Trauma, OCD, Bi-polar Disorder, Veterans, 1st Responders and L
Accepting New Clients: I am a caring and empathic psychotherapist who works from a strengths-based approach and help people to resolve troubling issues in their lives. My services are tailored to your needs. My goal is for you to live a more balanced life and to learn coping strategies to carry with you after counselling is completed. As in all counselling, we will work together to find solutions to the issues you bring to the counselling session.
(613) 704-5832 View (613) 704-5832
Photo of Kayla Walsh, Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Kayla Walsh
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Online Only
I work with adults and have experience supporting clients with a variety of presenting concerns including survivors of trauma and abuse, individuals coping with depression, anxiety, substance use/abuse, PTSD, grief and loss, and self-esteem.
If you are experiencing emotions such as hopelessness, loneliness, sadness, or anger, or perhaps find yourself ruminating on the past, isolating or having difficulty in your relationships; depending on things like drugs, alcohol, or food for comfort, I want you to know that you are not alone. In fact, these are all very common symptoms that we experience after trauma. I offer consultation calls to ensure I am the right therapist for you.
I work with adults and have experience supporting clients with a variety of presenting concerns including survivors of trauma and abuse, individuals coping with depression, anxiety, substance use/abuse, PTSD, grief and loss, and self-esteem.
If you are experiencing emotions such as hopelessness, loneliness, sadness, or anger, or perhaps find yourself ruminating on the past, isolating or having difficulty in your relationships; depending on things like drugs, alcohol, or food for comfort, I want you to know that you are not alone. In fact, these are all very common symptoms that we experience after trauma. I offer consultation calls to ensure I am the right therapist for you.
(343) 353-0482 View (343) 353-0482
Photo of Maggie Hogan, Registered Psychotherapist, MACP
Maggie Hogan
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7K
I support adults as they navigate life transitions and the accompanying anxiety, depression, grief and substance use.
I am a skilled and empathic therapist who uses a client-centred and integrative approach to address client concerns. I support individuals in their quest for personal growth, encouraging self-compassion, confidence, authenticity and self-determination, and I support couples that strive to strengthen and deepen their primary relationships.
I support adults as they navigate life transitions and the accompanying anxiety, depression, grief and substance use.
I am a skilled and empathic therapist who uses a client-centred and integrative approach to address client concerns. I support individuals in their quest for personal growth, encouraging self-compassion, confidence, authenticity and self-determination, and I support couples that strive to strengthen and deepen their primary relationships.
(613) 902-1175 View (613) 902-1175
Photo of Jordan Campeau, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BScN, MACP
Jordan Campeau
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BScN, MACP
Online Only
With a background as a Registered Nurse, I bring over a decade of experience supporting individuals with mental health and substance use challenges.
My therapeutic style is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and evidence-based practice. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and strengths-based approaches to help you better understand the connection between your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, and to support lasting, empowered change. That said, I know that therapy is not one-size-fits-all—so I also draw from a variety of approaches including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness- Based (MBCT), and others to ensure your care is personalized and responsive to your unique needs.
With a background as a Registered Nurse, I bring over a decade of experience supporting individuals with mental health and substance use challenges.
My therapeutic style is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and evidence-based practice. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and strengths-based approaches to help you better understand the connection between your thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, and to support lasting, empowered change. That said, I know that therapy is not one-size-fits-all—so I also draw from a variety of approaches including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness- Based (MBCT), and others to ensure your care is personalized and responsive to your unique needs.
(343) 321-5185 View (343) 321-5185
Photo of Zack Revell, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BA
Zack Revell
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BA
4 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7K
Do you struggle with trauma, mental health challenges, or substance use that impacts your day-to-day life, relationships, or ability to function?
As co-owner of Spear Wellness Centre and a registered (qualifying) psychotherapist, I offer holistic, EMDR-based therapy for trauma, addiction, and performance challenges. I start by identifying root causes, help you heal emotional wounds with EMDR, and provide a safe, inclusive, and experienced approach to help you reach your potential.
Do you struggle with trauma, mental health challenges, or substance use that impacts your day-to-day life, relationships, or ability to function?
As co-owner of Spear Wellness Centre and a registered (qualifying) psychotherapist, I offer holistic, EMDR-based therapy for trauma, addiction, and performance challenges. I start by identifying root causes, help you heal emotional wounds with EMDR, and provide a safe, inclusive, and experienced approach to help you reach your potential.
(343) 429-8380 View (343) 429-8380
Photo of Matthew Kennedy - Matthew Kennedy - Spear Wellness Centre, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, BA
Matthew Kennedy - Spear Wellness Centre
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, BA
2 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7K
Matt supports a wide range of issues, with his specialty population areas being substance use, youth, post-secondary students, and those in conflict with the law.
Have you been feeling stressed out lately? Are you noticing changes in your mood? Are you finding it hard to sleep at night or noticing unpleasant physiological symptoms such as headaches or digestive issues? The impacts of untreated mental health conditions, as well as an dysregulated nervous system and your body's increased stress response ("fight or flight") can have lasting impacts on your mental + physical health, and overall well-being. Matthew utilizes an eclectic & integrative psychotherapeutic approach and helps you rediscover your "wise" self to build your capacity to manage mental wellness, so it is not managing you.
Matt supports a wide range of issues, with his specialty population areas being substance use, youth, post-secondary students, and those in conflict with the law.
Have you been feeling stressed out lately? Are you noticing changes in your mood? Are you finding it hard to sleep at night or noticing unpleasant physiological symptoms such as headaches or digestive issues? The impacts of untreated mental health conditions, as well as an dysregulated nervous system and your body's increased stress response ("fight or flight") can have lasting impacts on your mental + physical health, and overall well-being. Matthew utilizes an eclectic & integrative psychotherapeutic approach and helps you rediscover your "wise" self to build your capacity to manage mental wellness, so it is not managing you.
(343) 700-9873 View (343) 700-9873
Photo of Yasmin Goldie - Yasmin Goldie - Spear Counselling & Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RN
Yasmin Goldie - Spear Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RN
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Together, you can expect to heal from trauma, navigate mental health or substance use challenges, learn to support one another through tough times with compassion & understanding, parent together successfully, improve sex & intimacy, and build healthier communication patterns.
Have you been having a difficult time communicating with your partner? Does it feel like you're stuck in the same endless cycle of misunderstandings? Has there been a major rupture in your marriage, such as infidelity, that feels impossible to move past? Relationships take work, and Yasmin is here to support you every step of the way. Whether it's improving communication, deepening intimacy, or healing from relational trauma, Yasmin is here to help you grow closer & stronger, together.
Together, you can expect to heal from trauma, navigate mental health or substance use challenges, learn to support one another through tough times with compassion & understanding, parent together successfully, improve sex & intimacy, and build healthier communication patterns.
Have you been having a difficult time communicating with your partner? Does it feel like you're stuck in the same endless cycle of misunderstandings? Has there been a major rupture in your marriage, such as infidelity, that feels impossible to move past? Relationships take work, and Yasmin is here to support you every step of the way. Whether it's improving communication, deepening intimacy, or healing from relational trauma, Yasmin is here to help you grow closer & stronger, together.
(343) 338-5355 View (343) 338-5355
Photo of Cameron Spicer, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RPQ
Cameron Spicer
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RPQ
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7K
Anxiety, depression, situational stressors, substance use, withdrawal management, grief and men's health
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with a decade of experience in mental health services, including addictions, crises, and developmental disabilities. I am a compassionate, respectful, and driven therapist who strives to support you in every facet of life that you hope to address. I feel that there are many experiential and interpersonal difficulties that you may come across in your lifetime that can lead to unwanted symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, or other concerns. Identifying problem areas and seeking support is important, but can be challenging – and that is why I am here to help.
Anxiety, depression, situational stressors, substance use, withdrawal management, grief and men's health
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with a decade of experience in mental health services, including addictions, crises, and developmental disabilities. I am a compassionate, respectful, and driven therapist who strives to support you in every facet of life that you hope to address. I feel that there are many experiential and interpersonal difficulties that you may come across in your lifetime that can lead to unwanted symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, or other concerns. Identifying problem areas and seeking support is important, but can be challenging – and that is why I am here to help.
(343) 801-3396 View (343) 801-3396
Photo of Max Monoogian - Keystone Psychotherapy - Max Monoogian, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Keystone Psychotherapy - Max Monoogian
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Serves Area
I work collaboratively with clients to explore and process past and current experiences that include early childhood and attachment trauma; combat trauma; grief and loss; life transitions; relationship concerns; substance use; eating disorders; and anxiety and depression.
Suffering is an inherent part of the human experience. However, we often feel that we are alone in our suffering, that no one can relate to our experiences, or that we don’t deserve to find peace in our lives. This can create feelings of frustration and despair, and we begin to feel stuck, unable to connect with others. Fear of judgement, along with our vulnerabilities can keep us from reaching out when we need it the most. I am confident that every person holds an innate understanding of what they need to heal and grow. Grounded in compassion, humility, and curiosity, my aim is to co-create a safe, open space for self-exploration.
I work collaboratively with clients to explore and process past and current experiences that include early childhood and attachment trauma; combat trauma; grief and loss; life transitions; relationship concerns; substance use; eating disorders; and anxiety and depression.
Suffering is an inherent part of the human experience. However, we often feel that we are alone in our suffering, that no one can relate to our experiences, or that we don’t deserve to find peace in our lives. This can create feelings of frustration and despair, and we begin to feel stuck, unable to connect with others. Fear of judgement, along with our vulnerabilities can keep us from reaching out when we need it the most. I am confident that every person holds an innate understanding of what they need to heal and grow. Grounded in compassion, humility, and curiosity, my aim is to co-create a safe, open space for self-exploration.
(343) 312-6976 View (343) 312-6976
Photo of Shannon Horrigan - Insync Counselling & Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist, RP RSSW
Insync Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP RSSW
Online Only
ICADC, CCAC, CPGC ( Substance use - International &Canadian, Problem gambling - Canadian certification, Trauma counselling - certificate
My name is Shannon Horrigan and I work "insync" with you to provide mental health and addictions support. I am a seasoned helping professional with over 25 years of experience providing services to individuals and family members. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, substance use and behavioural addictions such as gambling and technology overuse. I am currently available to provide virtual appointments in the evening and on weekends. I offer a free 15 minute consultation and welcome your inquiries. I can be reached at 613-888-1416
ICADC, CCAC, CPGC ( Substance use - International &Canadian, Problem gambling - Canadian certification, Trauma counselling - certificate
My name is Shannon Horrigan and I work "insync" with you to provide mental health and addictions support. I am a seasoned helping professional with over 25 years of experience providing services to individuals and family members. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, substance use and behavioural addictions such as gambling and technology overuse. I am currently available to provide virtual appointments in the evening and on weekends. I offer a free 15 minute consultation and welcome your inquiries. I can be reached at 613-888-1416
(613) 900-0945 View (613) 900-0945
Photo of Maureen Bornbaum, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, SEP
Maureen Bornbaum
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, SEP
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in supporting folks who are 18+ and navigating challenging parts of the human experience, including trauma and stress, grief and life transitions, and/or substance use.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches depending on a client's needs and goals. These include Somatic Experiencing therapy, parts work, compassion focused therapy, and EMDR, to help clients in the areas that they feel stuck. Further, I focus on working from an anti-oppressive, anti-colonial, sex-positive and neurodivergent affirming foundation.
I specialize in supporting folks who are 18+ and navigating challenging parts of the human experience, including trauma and stress, grief and life transitions, and/or substance use.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches depending on a client's needs and goals. These include Somatic Experiencing therapy, parts work, compassion focused therapy, and EMDR, to help clients in the areas that they feel stuck. Further, I focus on working from an anti-oppressive, anti-colonial, sex-positive and neurodivergent affirming foundation.
(289) 274-2300 View (289) 274-2300
Photo of Shannon Lawless - SL Psychotherapy and Wellness - Shannon Lawless, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RMFT-S
SL Psychotherapy and Wellness - Shannon Lawless
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RMFT-S
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
We work with themes of sexuality, relational challenges (individual, couple/poly or family context), communication, addiction and substance use, disordered eating, non-monogamy, interethnic partnership, grief and loss, and mental health issues.
Our therapists utilize a client-centered, systemic and trauma-informed practice based in collaborative work with clients. Through collaboration therapists will devise a tailored treatment plan that might pull from any of the following: Narrative, CBT, DBT, IFS, EMDR, Attachment, Sex therapy, Gottman Couples therapy, Mindfulness, and Emotion Focused therapy.
We work with themes of sexuality, relational challenges (individual, couple/poly or family context), communication, addiction and substance use, disordered eating, non-monogamy, interethnic partnership, grief and loss, and mental health issues.
Our therapists utilize a client-centered, systemic and trauma-informed practice based in collaborative work with clients. Through collaboration therapists will devise a tailored treatment plan that might pull from any of the following: Narrative, CBT, DBT, IFS, EMDR, Attachment, Sex therapy, Gottman Couples therapy, Mindfulness, and Emotion Focused therapy.
(343) 305-1114 View (343) 305-1114
Photo of Jessica Collins, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Jessica Collins
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a social worker I specialize in therapy for anxiety, trauma, & substance use concerns.
As you journey through life it is common to at times feel stressed or overwhelmed. Feeling this way can lead to changes in our mental health, ability to function, relationships, and overall peace of mind. As a therapist I walk alongside and support you, holding empathy and understanding as we work together to lighten the load, develop skills, and enhance personal understanding.
As a social worker I specialize in therapy for anxiety, trauma, & substance use concerns.
As you journey through life it is common to at times feel stressed or overwhelmed. Feeling this way can lead to changes in our mental health, ability to function, relationships, and overall peace of mind. As a therapist I walk alongside and support you, holding empathy and understanding as we work together to lighten the load, develop skills, and enhance personal understanding.
(226) 781-4133 View (226) 781-4133
Photo of Jillian Langtry - Simply Connected Therapy, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Simply Connected Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
We specialize in areas such as trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, substance use, personality disorders, grief, OCD and suicidal ideation.
Accepting New Clients! We strongly believe in meeting you where you are at and assisting you to draw on your own strength and resilience. We are determined to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for you to explore your feelings and will help you to address concerns, achieve goals and help make positive changes in your life. We strive to empower you to develop and recognize your own self-worth that fosters emotional growth within. We bring a warm, comprehensive, and practical approach to mental health and wellness and pride myself on listening deeply and empathetically.
We specialize in areas such as trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, substance use, personality disorders, grief, OCD and suicidal ideation.
Accepting New Clients! We strongly believe in meeting you where you are at and assisting you to draw on your own strength and resilience. We are determined to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for you to explore your feelings and will help you to address concerns, achieve goals and help make positive changes in your life. We strive to empower you to develop and recognize your own self-worth that fosters emotional growth within. We bring a warm, comprehensive, and practical approach to mental health and wellness and pride myself on listening deeply and empathetically.
(249) 202-2033 View (249) 202-2033
Photo of Jenn Snell, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Jenn Snell
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I have over 8 years experience working in the counselling field and I am qualified to work with adult individuals dealing with substance use and gambling addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and relationship issues.
Navigating life can be challenging and overwhelming. We do the best we can, and that can be exhausting. We can feel alone with our problems and potentially criticized for our current situations. What we want is to be happy, to be free from our daily struggles, and to be back in control of our own life’s journey. With someone there as support, we do not need to tackle these issues on our own. Having a non-judgmental, safe space to talk about and process our thoughts can make all the difference. You are the expert of your own life, and together we will work toward reaching your goals.
I have over 8 years experience working in the counselling field and I am qualified to work with adult individuals dealing with substance use and gambling addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and relationship issues.
Navigating life can be challenging and overwhelming. We do the best we can, and that can be exhausting. We can feel alone with our problems and potentially criticized for our current situations. What we want is to be happy, to be free from our daily struggles, and to be back in control of our own life’s journey. With someone there as support, we do not need to tackle these issues on our own. Having a non-judgmental, safe space to talk about and process our thoughts can make all the difference. You are the expert of your own life, and together we will work toward reaching your goals.
(343) 312-6874 View (343) 312-6874
Photo of Susan Streight, Occupational Therapist, MSc, OT, Reg, ACT/CBT
Susan Streight
Occupational Therapist, MSc, OT, Reg, ACT/CBT
2 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7M
I have worked for several years in the field of mental health. I believe that mental health is a continuum for all of us. With my skills as an occupational therapist and certified diplomate with the Academy of Cognitive Therapy, my goals are to help young people and adults develop functional strategies for living, find healthy coping mechanisms and understand how to change their behavior through changing the way they think. I believe we are all "becoming", and look forward to helping you become your best self.
I have worked for several years in the field of mental health. I believe that mental health is a continuum for all of us. With my skills as an occupational therapist and certified diplomate with the Academy of Cognitive Therapy, my goals are to help young people and adults develop functional strategies for living, find healthy coping mechanisms and understand how to change their behavior through changing the way they think. I believe we are all "becoming", and look forward to helping you become your best self.
(343) 307-5218 View (343) 307-5218
Photo of Alicia Sergeant, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP (Q)
Alicia Sergeant
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP (Q)
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7M
I’m Alicia, a trauma-informed Registered Psychotherapist (Q) with 14+ years of experience in mental health and addictions. I offer a warm, grounded space to explore what’s happening beneath the surface. I work with individuals facing anxiety, depression, anger, life transitions, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and emotion dysregulation. I have specialized experience with first responders, addiction, and sexual trauma. With curiosity and compassion, we’ll explore the parts of you that protect or disconnect to keep you safe.
I’m Alicia, a trauma-informed Registered Psychotherapist (Q) with 14+ years of experience in mental health and addictions. I offer a warm, grounded space to explore what’s happening beneath the surface. I work with individuals facing anxiety, depression, anger, life transitions, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and emotion dysregulation. I have specialized experience with first responders, addiction, and sexual trauma. With curiosity and compassion, we’ll explore the parts of you that protect or disconnect to keep you safe.
View
Photo of Christine Hignett, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Christine Hignett
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Online Only
I currently provide individual counselling virtually. I work primarily with adults to manage and process a variety of concerns. I use a client-centred, trauma-informed approach with a focus on existing strengths to collaborate with people on their path forward. I strive to help my clients view their situation with self-compassion, connect to their resiliency, and enhance their coping skills. I work with the understanding that individual issues arise in the context of greater social structures such as family, the workplace, intimate relationships, and society in general.
I currently provide individual counselling virtually. I work primarily with adults to manage and process a variety of concerns. I use a client-centred, trauma-informed approach with a focus on existing strengths to collaborate with people on their path forward. I strive to help my clients view their situation with self-compassion, connect to their resiliency, and enhance their coping skills. I work with the understanding that individual issues arise in the context of greater social structures such as family, the workplace, intimate relationships, and society in general.
(343) 307-0855 View (343) 307-0855
Photo of Jacob Pollack, Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, MSc
Jacob Pollack
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, MSc
Serves Area
Living in a fast-paced society can often make us feel burned-out, chronically anxious, depressed and alienated from those we love the most. Too often, we are "working for the weekend", and when it comes we have precious little time to spend doing the things that bring us meaning and strengthen our most important relationships. I approach mental health issues as arising primarily from our needs being inadequately met by the community and world around us. So there's a disconnect between how we evolved and where we are now. I also do ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) in partnership with the Canadian Centre For Psychedelic Healing.
Living in a fast-paced society can often make us feel burned-out, chronically anxious, depressed and alienated from those we love the most. Too often, we are "working for the weekend", and when it comes we have precious little time to spend doing the things that bring us meaning and strengthen our most important relationships. I approach mental health issues as arising primarily from our needs being inadequately met by the community and world around us. So there's a disconnect between how we evolved and where we are now. I also do ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) in partnership with the Canadian Centre For Psychedelic Healing.
(343) 307-4875 View (343) 307-4875
Photo of Tanya Beattie, Registered Psychotherapist, BScH, MA
Tanya Beattie
Registered Psychotherapist, BScH, MA
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K0H
Looking for some support? It can be daunting to try to find a therapist you can really connect to. Let me help you make that a little easier with a few questions. Do you tend to put yourself last, have feelings of not being good enough, or that there is something wrong with you? Do you struggle to be able to relax, feeling guilty unless you are being productive 24/7? Are you able to be self compassionate or is compassion only for other people? The beliefs we have about ourselves and others are based on what we experienced as children. Childhood is where we learn the "rules" of how we are supposed to live our lives.
Looking for some support? It can be daunting to try to find a therapist you can really connect to. Let me help you make that a little easier with a few questions. Do you tend to put yourself last, have feelings of not being good enough, or that there is something wrong with you? Do you struggle to be able to relax, feeling guilty unless you are being productive 24/7? Are you able to be self compassionate or is compassion only for other people? The beliefs we have about ourselves and others are based on what we experienced as children. Childhood is where we learn the "rules" of how we are supposed to live our lives.
(343) 304-6386 View (343) 304-6386

See more therapy options for Kingston

Nearby Substance Use Counsellors Searches for Kingston

See More Substance Use Counsellors
Substance Use Counsellors

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, counsellors, 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.