Photo of Sabrina Wisson, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, ON
Sabrina Wisson
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5J
Sabrina is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and holds more than 7 years of experience working with vulnerable and marginalized populations in different non-profit settings. Sabrina has supported individuals who are experiencing intimate partner violence, survivors of sexual assault, human trafficking and other traumas, substance use, childhood trauma, have precarious housing situations, and are involved in the legal system. She also helps individuals with stress, self-worth, life transitions, anxiety, depression, grief, emotional regulation & relationships.
Sabrina is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and holds more than 7 years of experience working with vulnerable and marginalized populations in different non-profit settings. Sabrina has supported individuals who are experiencing intimate partner violence, survivors of sexual assault, human trafficking and other traumas, substance use, childhood trauma, have precarious housing situations, and are involved in the legal system. She also helps individuals with stress, self-worth, life transitions, anxiety, depression, grief, emotional regulation & relationships.
(289) 312-0344 View (289) 312-0344
Photo of Rebekah Kunica, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Rebekah Kunica
Registered Psychotherapist, BSW, MDiv, ADHD-CC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5M
I am passionate about supporting adults who struggle with substance use disorders and other addiction, ADHD, and personality disorders (such as Borderline Personality Disorder).
Many of us have become masters in pretending that things are fine, when in reality our lives seem to be falling apart. Inside we feel like we’re drowning: overwhelmed by emotion, lost, & hopeless as we try to carry the burden of unresolved trauma, pain, & life’s curveballs hurled our way. Pushing aside these problems to get through each day to manage life’s responsibilities, we find ourselves numb, depressed, anxious, self-medicating, isolating, angry, & struggling with relationships. Together, we can work towards confronting unhealthy behaviours, understanding emotions, & healing from past trauma to create transformational change.
I am passionate about supporting adults who struggle with substance use disorders and other addiction, ADHD, and personality disorders (such as Borderline Personality Disorder).
Many of us have become masters in pretending that things are fine, when in reality our lives seem to be falling apart. Inside we feel like we’re drowning: overwhelmed by emotion, lost, & hopeless as we try to carry the burden of unresolved trauma, pain, & life’s curveballs hurled our way. Pushing aside these problems to get through each day to manage life’s responsibilities, we find ourselves numb, depressed, anxious, self-medicating, isolating, angry, & struggling with relationships. Together, we can work towards confronting unhealthy behaviours, understanding emotions, & healing from past trauma to create transformational change.
(289) 301-8240 View (289) 301-8240
Photo of Take Care Psychotherapy, Julia Sivarajah, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Take Care Psychotherapy, Julia Sivarajah
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5B  (Online Only)
I can help you with your mental health and/or substance use goals and with gaining tools to cope when faced with life challenges.
Welcome! Are you looking to take care of your mental health? Counselling can help with struggles you are facing whether it be excessive worries, sadness, relationship troubles, drug use problems, loss of a loved one, or anything else that may be causing you distress or impacting your functioning at school, work or even social activities. I have extensive experience supporting teens and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, school related stress, gender identity concerns, trauma/abuse, and substance use problems.
I can help you with your mental health and/or substance use goals and with gaining tools to cope when faced with life challenges.
Welcome! Are you looking to take care of your mental health? Counselling can help with struggles you are facing whether it be excessive worries, sadness, relationship troubles, drug use problems, loss of a loved one, or anything else that may be causing you distress or impacting your functioning at school, work or even social activities. I have extensive experience supporting teens and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, school related stress, gender identity concerns, trauma/abuse, and substance use problems.
(289) 514-0078 View (289) 514-0078
Photo of Desiree Brown, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Desiree Brown
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
I share a common human experience with my clients and appreciate our journeys. Maybe you're considering therapy to connect with someone non-judgmental and outside your personal support system; you're feeling uneasy or worrying about life; you're withdrawing from others and no longer find joy and pleasure; substance use or a habitual behaviour is getting in the way of meaningful relationships and meeting life’s challenges; or you experienced a major event in your life and you're feeling overwhelmed. We will endeavour to understand these challenges and I will support you in taking steps that would benefit you.
I share a common human experience with my clients and appreciate our journeys. Maybe you're considering therapy to connect with someone non-judgmental and outside your personal support system; you're feeling uneasy or worrying about life; you're withdrawing from others and no longer find joy and pleasure; substance use or a habitual behaviour is getting in the way of meaningful relationships and meeting life’s challenges; or you experienced a major event in your life and you're feeling overwhelmed. We will endeavour to understand these challenges and I will support you in taking steps that would benefit you.
(289) 276-8871 View (289) 276-8871
Photo of Jennifer Beauchesne, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Jennifer Beauchesne
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5L
I have over 12 years experience working in both community and hospital based mental health and substance use recovery.
Are you experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties? Are you concerned about your or a friend/family member's use of alcohol, substances or gambling? Are you feeling overwhelmed by your emotions and negative or critical thoughts? I hope to empower and encourage you to explore, navigate and develop healthy skills and strategies in wellness and healthy living that are consistent with your values. At Beau Psychotherapy, I wish to support you to develop insight into your struggles and improve your confidence and sense of well-being.
I have over 12 years experience working in both community and hospital based mental health and substance use recovery.
Are you experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties? Are you concerned about your or a friend/family member's use of alcohol, substances or gambling? Are you feeling overwhelmed by your emotions and negative or critical thoughts? I hope to empower and encourage you to explore, navigate and develop healthy skills and strategies in wellness and healthy living that are consistent with your values. At Beau Psychotherapy, I wish to support you to develop insight into your struggles and improve your confidence and sense of well-being.
(289) 302-5528 View (289) 302-5528
Photo of Tanya Laura LaJambe, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Tanya Laura LaJambe
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5B  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I support my clients in finding new ways to approach their mental health, trauma, substance use, and relationships.
You may have wondered at times, "Will I ever recover?", and I am excited to let you know that change is always within your reach. It takes a lot of courage and vulnerability to begin a journey towards healing, and yet every human is entitled to a life that reflects their core values and truest self. I believe that self-exploration is key to any change process, and accessing therapy is a brilliant and brave way to ignite this and to welcome yourself into an exciting new chapter. My practice is rooted in Anti Oppressive, trauma-informed care, with an emphasis on identifying and utilizing your strengths as agents of change.
I support my clients in finding new ways to approach their mental health, trauma, substance use, and relationships.
You may have wondered at times, "Will I ever recover?", and I am excited to let you know that change is always within your reach. It takes a lot of courage and vulnerability to begin a journey towards healing, and yet every human is entitled to a life that reflects their core values and truest self. I believe that self-exploration is key to any change process, and accessing therapy is a brilliant and brave way to ignite this and to welcome yourself into an exciting new chapter. My practice is rooted in Anti Oppressive, trauma-informed care, with an emphasis on identifying and utilizing your strengths as agents of change.
(289) 302-5751 View (289) 302-5751
Photo of Lucia Borrelli, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Lucia Borrelli
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5J
I specialize in substance use, mental health, disordered eating, self-esteem and body image related concerns.
Are you looking to understand yourself better? Is your inner critic making you feel small and worthless every day? Do you want to change a pattern of behaviour that is keeping you stuck? Do you want to feel more confident and sure of your needs? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how to navigate their lives, careers and relationships. I believe that my role as a therapist is to be a non-judgmental mirror to support in challenging that inner critic. Let's work together so you can build a life that brings you joy and strengthens your relationships.
I specialize in substance use, mental health, disordered eating, self-esteem and body image related concerns.
Are you looking to understand yourself better? Is your inner critic making you feel small and worthless every day? Do you want to change a pattern of behaviour that is keeping you stuck? Do you want to feel more confident and sure of your needs? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how to navigate their lives, careers and relationships. I believe that my role as a therapist is to be a non-judgmental mirror to support in challenging that inner critic. Let's work together so you can build a life that brings you joy and strengthens your relationships.
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Photo of Jodi Rouah, Counselling & Co. , Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Jodi Rouah, Counselling & Co.
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4W
Welcome and thank you for visiting my profile. My hope is that through our work together you feel empowered to understand, strengthen and repair your relationship with self and other, even when it doesn't seem possible. I work from a collaborative and client centered stance; facilitating individuals, couples and families towards a greater understanding of their emotional responses and needs. As we become aware of ourselves and our needs, we have a better sense of where to make change. My specialties include Maternal Mental Health (pregnancy/postpartum), Substance Use & Addiction, relationship struggles and Hold Me Tight Workshops.
Welcome and thank you for visiting my profile. My hope is that through our work together you feel empowered to understand, strengthen and repair your relationship with self and other, even when it doesn't seem possible. I work from a collaborative and client centered stance; facilitating individuals, couples and families towards a greater understanding of their emotional responses and needs. As we become aware of ourselves and our needs, we have a better sense of where to make change. My specialties include Maternal Mental Health (pregnancy/postpartum), Substance Use & Addiction, relationship struggles and Hold Me Tight Workshops.
(289) 272-6222 View (289) 272-6222
Photo of Nina Chiodo, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, ON
Nina Chiodo
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4T  (Online Only)
My specialties include relationship issues, anxiety, depression, OCD, substance use, and trauma.
When faced with distressing feelings and experiences, life can become isolating and overwhelming. In these moments, additional help can make all the difference in processing, coping with, and overcoming these challenges. If you find your emotions difficult to manage and impact your function, I provide a safe and nurturing environment where we work towards cultivating self-awareness, self-compassion, and healing. With a background in human development and extensive experience in physical rehabilitation, I approach therapy through a holistic, non-pathologizing lens aimed at enhancing overall quality of life through improved coping.
My specialties include relationship issues, anxiety, depression, OCD, substance use, and trauma.
When faced with distressing feelings and experiences, life can become isolating and overwhelming. In these moments, additional help can make all the difference in processing, coping with, and overcoming these challenges. If you find your emotions difficult to manage and impact your function, I provide a safe and nurturing environment where we work towards cultivating self-awareness, self-compassion, and healing. With a background in human development and extensive experience in physical rehabilitation, I approach therapy through a holistic, non-pathologizing lens aimed at enhancing overall quality of life through improved coping.
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Photo of andtherapy (DBT), Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
andtherapy (DBT)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5N  (Online Only)
Our comprehensive DBT program is committed to providing compassionate & effective treatment for individuals who may experience intense emotions (such as anxiety, depression, anger, shame, guilt), impulsive behaviours (such as self-harm, suicide, stealing, substance use, risky behaviours), & stormy relationships (which could look like switching between pushing people away & clinging to them, challenges with saying no). We also offer trauma treatment through Prolonged Exposure-DBT and/or Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) because many of the current day experiences, emotions & views of the world, are based on previous experiences.
Our comprehensive DBT program is committed to providing compassionate & effective treatment for individuals who may experience intense emotions (such as anxiety, depression, anger, shame, guilt), impulsive behaviours (such as self-harm, suicide, stealing, substance use, risky behaviours), & stormy relationships (which could look like switching between pushing people away & clinging to them, challenges with saying no). We also offer trauma treatment through Prolonged Exposure-DBT and/or Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) because many of the current day experiences, emotions & views of the world, are based on previous experiences.
(437) 747-6361 View (437) 747-6361
Photo of Ontario Trauma Therapy - Alyssa, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Ontario Trauma Therapy - Alyssa
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L4W
Particularly, I often treat clients facing anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, self-esteem issues, and/or substance use.
I am passionate about working with clients who appreciate the importance of mental health and are aspiring to make changes on the course of becoming their best self. I believe that each client is unique and therapy should align with their personal goals and identity. I aim to create comfortable sessions free of judgement and oriented toward the client's intentions and needs.
Particularly, I often treat clients facing anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, self-esteem issues, and/or substance use.
I am passionate about working with clients who appreciate the importance of mental health and are aspiring to make changes on the course of becoming their best self. I believe that each client is unique and therapy should align with their personal goals and identity. I aim to create comfortable sessions free of judgement and oriented toward the client's intentions and needs.
(226) 212-7376 View (226) 212-7376
Photo of Farhana Safa, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Farhana Safa
Registered Social Worker, MBBS, MScCH, MPH
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L4T  (Online Only)
Struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, PTSD, substance use, anger issues, life transition, migration, job related problems, relationship issues and so on, and looking for a safe space to discuss your issues, do not hesitate to connect with me.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. I believe it should not be so hard to live a better life. I offer a custom approach for each of my clients! I start with understanding where you are now and the challenges you are facing.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, PTSD, substance use, anger issues, life transition, migration, job related problems, relationship issues and so on, and looking for a safe space to discuss your issues, do not hesitate to connect with me.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. I believe it should not be so hard to live a better life. I offer a custom approach for each of my clients! I start with understanding where you are now and the challenges you are facing.
(437) 292-3731 View (437) 292-3731
Photo of Sarah Schwalm, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Sarah Schwalm
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4T
Sarah is a proud mom and wife to her very supportive husband. When she isn’t engaged with her clients you will find her at the baseball diamond or arena cheering her son on. Sarah is a Registered Psychotherapist with over 20 years of clinical experience supporting youth, adults, families, and parents. Sarah specializes in supporting presenting needs including trauma, self-esteem, ADHD, life issues, relationships, family conflict, school avoidance, body image, substance use, and complex mental health issues.Sarah is trained in CBT, DBT, Narrative, Brief-Solution Focused, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness.
Sarah is a proud mom and wife to her very supportive husband. When she isn’t engaged with her clients you will find her at the baseball diamond or arena cheering her son on. Sarah is a Registered Psychotherapist with over 20 years of clinical experience supporting youth, adults, families, and parents. Sarah specializes in supporting presenting needs including trauma, self-esteem, ADHD, life issues, relationships, family conflict, school avoidance, body image, substance use, and complex mental health issues.Sarah is trained in CBT, DBT, Narrative, Brief-Solution Focused, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness.
(289) 677-1973 View (289) 677-1973
Photo of Shamsad Texiwala, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Shamsad Texiwala
Registered Social Worker, BSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5M  (Online Only)
As a therapist, my goal is to help you to navigate through the difficult situations, life changes and events. Together, we can focus on skills that foster resiliency in the face of inevitable life challenges and stressors. I have several years of experience working with teens and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, substance use and other mental health concerns. I appreciate the complexities and challenges that life has to offer especially from a cultural and racial lens.
As a therapist, my goal is to help you to navigate through the difficult situations, life changes and events. Together, we can focus on skills that foster resiliency in the face of inevitable life challenges and stressors. I have several years of experience working with teens and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, substance use and other mental health concerns. I appreciate the complexities and challenges that life has to offer especially from a cultural and racial lens.
(289) 207-6520 View (289) 207-6520
Photo of Alexis Roddau, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Alexis Roddau
Registered Psychotherapist, RPQ
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z  (Online Only)
Feeling like life's been throwing you curveballs lately? Wondering if there's a way to break free from the cycle of struggle and find your footing again? With over a decade of experience in addictions and mental health, Alexis is a seasoned guide through life's challenges. Holding an Honours Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Sociology, along with a Post-Graduate Diploma in Addictions and Mental Health, she's equipped with the knowledge and compassion to support you on your journey. Specializing in adults and transitional youth, Alexis understands the complexities of substance use and life's stressors.
Feeling like life's been throwing you curveballs lately? Wondering if there's a way to break free from the cycle of struggle and find your footing again? With over a decade of experience in addictions and mental health, Alexis is a seasoned guide through life's challenges. Holding an Honours Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Sociology, along with a Post-Graduate Diploma in Addictions and Mental Health, she's equipped with the knowledge and compassion to support you on your journey. Specializing in adults and transitional youth, Alexis understands the complexities of substance use and life's stressors.
(289) 203-0246 View (289) 203-0246
Photo of Amber Dalsin, Psychologist in Mississauga, ON
Amber Dalsin
Psychologist, MSc, CPsych
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5H  (Online Only)
I help couples overcome conflict to create strong and harmonious relationships. As a Certified Gottman Therapist, I help couples quiet the conflict in their relationship. What were once heart-breaking conversations the couple did not know how to fix, turn into dialogue around making the relationship better, repairing old hurts, and deepening emotional connection. Whether the conflict stems from poor communication and emotional distance, to trauma, affairs, infertility, or substance use problems, the evidence based treatments can help couples communicate openly and find solutions, or decide it is time to move on.
I help couples overcome conflict to create strong and harmonious relationships. As a Certified Gottman Therapist, I help couples quiet the conflict in their relationship. What were once heart-breaking conversations the couple did not know how to fix, turn into dialogue around making the relationship better, repairing old hurts, and deepening emotional connection. Whether the conflict stems from poor communication and emotional distance, to trauma, affairs, infertility, or substance use problems, the evidence based treatments can help couples communicate openly and find solutions, or decide it is time to move on.
(647) 957-9941 View (647) 957-9941
Photo of Jora Shacter, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Jora Shacter
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5V  (Online Only)
Welcome! I work with career-minded people who struggle with ADHD, Anxiety, Trauma and Substance Use. I work with people who are in high-pressure or creative fields who feel they can be doing better, but struggle to get there on their own. I strive to create a warm, collaborative space where you can explore concerns and learn tools to cope. I understand everyone is at a different place in their journey, and I’ll meet you where you are at. I feel fortunate to have worked in many settings that uplift 2SLGBTQ+ and BIPOC populations.
Welcome! I work with career-minded people who struggle with ADHD, Anxiety, Trauma and Substance Use. I work with people who are in high-pressure or creative fields who feel they can be doing better, but struggle to get there on their own. I strive to create a warm, collaborative space where you can explore concerns and learn tools to cope. I understand everyone is at a different place in their journey, and I’ll meet you where you are at. I feel fortunate to have worked in many settings that uplift 2SLGBTQ+ and BIPOC populations.
(647) 250-9902 View (647) 250-9902
Photo of Kristina Trandovski, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Kristina Trandovski
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5N  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! I have over a decade of experience in the mental health field, including providing individual psychotherapy, facilitating group therapy sessions, delivering workshops, and conducting comprehensive assessments. My clinical experience ranges from front-line mental health work to leadership, working with individuals and their families in navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use and addiction, stress, and more.
Accepting New Clients! I have over a decade of experience in the mental health field, including providing individual psychotherapy, facilitating group therapy sessions, delivering workshops, and conducting comprehensive assessments. My clinical experience ranges from front-line mental health work to leadership, working with individuals and their families in navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use and addiction, stress, and more.
(905) 798-0908 View (905) 798-0908
Photo of Heidi Klett, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Heidi Klett
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5B  (Online Only)
While I offer therapy for all areas of concern, I do have specialized interests in: 1) substance use and addiction concerns, 2) trauma, 3) anxiety, and 4) grief and loss of any kind including death, non-death losses and life transitions.
All feelings and struggles welcome! Difficult emotions, unresolved experiences and life challenges are often trying to tell us something. They also provide a sacred opportunity to connect with your values, needs, inner wisdom and understanding of the self. In our work together, compassion, curiosity, empowerment and reflection are used to provide an opportunity where you can feel safe, heard and understood. I use a blend of therapeutic modalities to best fit your therapeutic needs. I also offer a mix of day, evening and weekend appointments for flexible scheduling.
While I offer therapy for all areas of concern, I do have specialized interests in: 1) substance use and addiction concerns, 2) trauma, 3) anxiety, and 4) grief and loss of any kind including death, non-death losses and life transitions.
All feelings and struggles welcome! Difficult emotions, unresolved experiences and life challenges are often trying to tell us something. They also provide a sacred opportunity to connect with your values, needs, inner wisdom and understanding of the self. In our work together, compassion, curiosity, empowerment and reflection are used to provide an opportunity where you can feel safe, heard and understood. I use a blend of therapeutic modalities to best fit your therapeutic needs. I also offer a mix of day, evening and weekend appointments for flexible scheduling.
(647) 243-8515 View (647) 243-8515
Photo of Hayley Quinton, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, ON
Hayley Quinton
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP(q), CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4T  (Online Only)
Whether you're facing long-standing challenges or more recent struggles, I am happy to help support and guide you on your journey. I have over 10 years of experience supports individuals of all ages struggling with various forms of trauma , mental health, relationship issues, life transitions, and substance use.
Whether you're facing long-standing challenges or more recent struggles, I am happy to help support and guide you on your journey. I have over 10 years of experience supports individuals of all ages struggling with various forms of trauma , mental health, relationship issues, life transitions, and substance use.
(705) 996-2212 View (705) 996-2212

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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.