Substance Use Therapists in Ottawa, ON
I offer couples and individual therapy to youth (12+) and adults experiencing a wide range of mental health concerns related to substance use, concurrent disorders, emotional regulation, stress, interpersonal challenges, anxiety, depression, and trauma related symptoms.
I aim to provide a non-judgmental, compassionate, and collaborative environment that ensures a safe space for all. I take an integrated approach that is rooted in a client-centered approach and trauma-informed care practice. I draw from strength-based therapies such as: cognitive-behavioural therapies (CBT) and solution-focused brief therapies (SFT).
I offer couples and individual therapy to youth (12+) and adults experiencing a wide range of mental health concerns related to substance use, concurrent disorders, emotional regulation, stress, interpersonal challenges, anxiety, depression, and trauma related symptoms.
I aim to provide a non-judgmental, compassionate, and collaborative environment that ensures a safe space for all. I take an integrated approach that is rooted in a client-centered approach and trauma-informed care practice. I draw from strength-based therapies such as: cognitive-behavioural therapies (CBT) and solution-focused brief therapies (SFT).
Wendy Elizabeth Brown
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, ICADC, ICCS, CCAC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
She specializes in Issues of mental health and substance use for adults, young adults and youth.
As an experienced counsellor Wendy would like to help you and provide a professional and clinical approach that best suits your needs. Positive changes can occur through discussion, reflection, validation and acceptance of self and others. Wendy is gentle and approachable to all those in her care.
She specializes in Issues of mental health and substance use for adults, young adults and youth.
As an experienced counsellor Wendy would like to help you and provide a professional and clinical approach that best suits your needs. Positive changes can occur through discussion, reflection, validation and acceptance of self and others. Wendy is gentle and approachable to all those in her care.
I work with people that have challenges with Substance Use, Trauma, Relational issues, Sex and Sexuality.
I am a trauma therapist who specializes in eating disorders and addictions. I am frequently taken by the amount of pain and suffering in the world, I have learned that through these moments we can find the most growth, strength, and beauty. Often we can get stuck in-between these painful moments and a new way of being, That's often what brings people to therapy. Our work together may be a journey to help you get unstuck or out of the place of crisis and to find a sense of safety. I feel it is a privilege to be able to be a part of someone's journey and be able to walk along beside them.
I work with people that have challenges with Substance Use, Trauma, Relational issues, Sex and Sexuality.
I am a trauma therapist who specializes in eating disorders and addictions. I am frequently taken by the amount of pain and suffering in the world, I have learned that through these moments we can find the most growth, strength, and beauty. Often we can get stuck in-between these painful moments and a new way of being, That's often what brings people to therapy. Our work together may be a journey to help you get unstuck or out of the place of crisis and to find a sense of safety. I feel it is a privilege to be able to be a part of someone's journey and be able to walk along beside them.
Martin David Pleau - No Waitlist - Only Taking Ontario
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I have more than 12 years of experience working in addiction with substance use, codependency, gambling and sexual addiction.
I believe in second chances and new paths wherever you've been, whatever you've done. Let's talk if you feel you're going nowhere or not getting the results you want. If you feel let down and are looking for affordable therapy, I await you. I specialize in addiction therapy and am only taking clients from Ontario at the moment. Sliding fee scale available. I have a lot of experience with individual therapy, some with couple, with teenagers ans most with adults.
I have more than 12 years of experience working in addiction with substance use, codependency, gambling and sexual addiction.
I believe in second chances and new paths wherever you've been, whatever you've done. Let's talk if you feel you're going nowhere or not getting the results you want. If you feel let down and are looking for affordable therapy, I await you. I specialize in addiction therapy and am only taking clients from Ontario at the moment. Sliding fee scale available. I have a lot of experience with individual therapy, some with couple, with teenagers ans most with adults.
Stephanie specializes in supporting clients with substance use, anxiety, ADHD and borderline personality disorder.
There are times when we all need support. Stephanie will approach your therapy and treatment with a focus on the mind body connection. She sees establishing safety in our nervous system as a core component of treating stress and anxiety. Stephanie has been working in mental health in hospitals, community clinics, and research labs for almost a decade. She creates a safe space, allowing you to be your authentic self. She believes the therapeutic relationship is a critical component of the success of therapy.
Stephanie specializes in supporting clients with substance use, anxiety, ADHD and borderline personality disorder.
There are times when we all need support. Stephanie will approach your therapy and treatment with a focus on the mind body connection. She sees establishing safety in our nervous system as a core component of treating stress and anxiety. Stephanie has been working in mental health in hospitals, community clinics, and research labs for almost a decade. She creates a safe space, allowing you to be your authentic self. She believes the therapeutic relationship is a critical component of the success of therapy.
I would like to focus on working with children and teens and I also work with life transitions, substance use and relationship issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, unsure of where to turn for support? Whether it’s your child
struggling in school, a teen navigating tough emotions, or an adult facing personal challenges, life can sometimes feel too much to handle. You might feel stuck, frustrated, or uncertain about how to move forward. It’s okay to ask for help, and therapy can be a space to start fresh, find understanding, and build a path to feeling better.
You don't have to go through this alone. I believe in the power of therapy to help people make lasting changes, and I'm committed to being there with you every step of the way.
I would like to focus on working with children and teens and I also work with life transitions, substance use and relationship issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, unsure of where to turn for support? Whether it’s your child
struggling in school, a teen navigating tough emotions, or an adult facing personal challenges, life can sometimes feel too much to handle. You might feel stuck, frustrated, or uncertain about how to move forward. It’s okay to ask for help, and therapy can be a space to start fresh, find understanding, and build a path to feeling better.
You don't have to go through this alone. I believe in the power of therapy to help people make lasting changes, and I'm committed to being there with you every step of the way.
For over 25 years, I have specialized in treating people with problematic substance use, and other related mental health issues, including trauma and chronic stress.
Changing your relationship with alcohol and/or other drugs can often be challenging and hard to sustain. I provide individual therapy designed to support you in being able to reduce the negative impacts of substance use, and increase your quality of life. The right way to make meaningful change is the way that works best for you.
For over 25 years, I have specialized in treating people with problematic substance use, and other related mental health issues, including trauma and chronic stress.
Changing your relationship with alcohol and/or other drugs can often be challenging and hard to sustain. I provide individual therapy designed to support you in being able to reduce the negative impacts of substance use, and increase your quality of life. The right way to make meaningful change is the way that works best for you.
Abigail Ajodha - Karkiu Psychotherapy And Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSW, MACP
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1E
My clients are typically adults working through intergenerational trauma, being the parentified sibling, living as a neurospicy person, depression, anxiety, substance use, relationship issues, and codependency.
Accepting New Clients! - You've taken the first step toward healing, and that's something to be proud of. We, at Karkiu Psychotherapy, are cheering you on in this bold move! Choosing to seek therapy isn't easy, but it's a powerful decision. As an immigrant, I understand the challenges of adjusting to a different culture and the possible familial conflict that arises from different values and beliefs. I provide an empathetic and understanding space to explore the struggles of growing up with immigrant parents and feeling misunderstood.
My clients are typically adults working through intergenerational trauma, being the parentified sibling, living as a neurospicy person, depression, anxiety, substance use, relationship issues, and codependency.
Accepting New Clients! - You've taken the first step toward healing, and that's something to be proud of. We, at Karkiu Psychotherapy, are cheering you on in this bold move! Choosing to seek therapy isn't easy, but it's a powerful decision. As an immigrant, I understand the challenges of adjusting to a different culture and the possible familial conflict that arises from different values and beliefs. I provide an empathetic and understanding space to explore the struggles of growing up with immigrant parents and feeling misunderstood.
Addiction & BPD Support - Michelle Reis
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether it’s substance use, relationship struggles, or patterns that feel out of control, it’s exhausting trying to manage it all without support.
With 8 years of experience as an addictions counsellor, I specialize in supporting people facing substance use challenges and BPD symptoms. Our work focuses on understanding your patterns, calming emotional chaos, and building real skills for change. You don’t have to figure everything out at once—we’ll start with what feels manageable.
Whether it’s substance use, relationship struggles, or patterns that feel out of control, it’s exhausting trying to manage it all without support.
With 8 years of experience as an addictions counsellor, I specialize in supporting people facing substance use challenges and BPD symptoms. Our work focuses on understanding your patterns, calming emotional chaos, and building real skills for change. You don’t have to figure everything out at once—we’ll start with what feels manageable.
Addiction & Substance Use Help - Emmet O'Reilly
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I help people struggling with addiction and substance use find clarity, direction, and relief.
Accepting New Clients! You didn’t plan for things to get this hard. Maybe using started as a way to cope, unwind, or escape—but now it’s interfering with your life, your relationships, or how you feel about yourself. You might be stuck in a cycle of shame, secrecy, or frustration, wondering how things got here and how to stop. Whether you’re thinking about cutting back or ready to make a big change, it can feel overwhelming. If substances are taking up more space than you want them to, therapy can be a space to figure out your next move—without judgment or pressure.
I help people struggling with addiction and substance use find clarity, direction, and relief.
Accepting New Clients! You didn’t plan for things to get this hard. Maybe using started as a way to cope, unwind, or escape—but now it’s interfering with your life, your relationships, or how you feel about yourself. You might be stuck in a cycle of shame, secrecy, or frustration, wondering how things got here and how to stop. Whether you’re thinking about cutting back or ready to make a big change, it can feel overwhelming. If substances are taking up more space than you want them to, therapy can be a space to figure out your next move—without judgment or pressure.
I specialize in trauma therapy and substance use counselling, offering support for those who are navigating the effects of past trauma or struggling with substance use.
I’m so glad you’re here! I know that life can be overwhelming, especially when past trauma, difficult experiences, stress, or ongoing mental health challenges make daily life feel like a struggle. You may feel stuck in cycles of anxiety, self-doubt, or emotional pain, unsure of how to move forward. Relationships, work, or even small daily tasks might feel exhausting. You want to regain a sense of control, heal from past wounds, and build a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling. Most of all, you’re looking for a safe space to be heard, understood, and supported as you work through these challenges.
I specialize in trauma therapy and substance use counselling, offering support for those who are navigating the effects of past trauma or struggling with substance use.
I’m so glad you’re here! I know that life can be overwhelming, especially when past trauma, difficult experiences, stress, or ongoing mental health challenges make daily life feel like a struggle. You may feel stuck in cycles of anxiety, self-doubt, or emotional pain, unsure of how to move forward. Relationships, work, or even small daily tasks might feel exhausting. You want to regain a sense of control, heal from past wounds, and build a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling. Most of all, you’re looking for a safe space to be heard, understood, and supported as you work through these challenges.
Areas I devote my practice to include: Emotion dysregulation; ADHD; Substance use & addiction; Relationship difficulties; Complex trauma; Suicidal and/or self-harming behaviours; Cultural & sexual identity concerns; Anxiety & depression.
I will help you break out of hard-to-change patterns you might find yourself in and work with you toward your values and goals within a safe, flexible, and collaborative process. My orientation to providing therapy is trauma-informed, culturally humble, and neurodiversity & 2SLGBTQ+ affirming.
Areas I devote my practice to include: Emotion dysregulation; ADHD; Substance use & addiction; Relationship difficulties; Complex trauma; Suicidal and/or self-harming behaviours; Cultural & sexual identity concerns; Anxiety & depression.
I will help you break out of hard-to-change patterns you might find yourself in and work with you toward your values and goals within a safe, flexible, and collaborative process. My orientation to providing therapy is trauma-informed, culturally humble, and neurodiversity & 2SLGBTQ+ affirming.
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of secrecy, shame, and isolation that often accompanies alcohol and/or substance use?
I offer a non-stigmatizing and non-pathologizing space to explore your relationship with alcohol, drugs, and other adaptive responses that show up in times of stress. I am a yoga teacher and trained in the Polyvagal Theory in therapy, both of which support building nervous system awareness and resilience for responding to stress and trauma.
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of secrecy, shame, and isolation that often accompanies alcohol and/or substance use?
I offer a non-stigmatizing and non-pathologizing space to explore your relationship with alcohol, drugs, and other adaptive responses that show up in times of stress. I am a yoga teacher and trained in the Polyvagal Theory in therapy, both of which support building nervous system awareness and resilience for responding to stress and trauma.
I have a particular interest in working with folks struggling with religious trauma, substance use, relationship issues, personality disorders, C-PTSD and 2SLGBTQlA+ issues, however I am happy to work with you on whatever you may bring to the space with you.
There is no one right way to heal. My approach is collaborative, trauma-informed and person-centred, and incorporates elements of ACT, DBT, narrative therapy, and family systems theory. I have a background in community-based addiction and mental health care, and my values are grounded in the principles of anti-oppression and harm reduction.
I have a particular interest in working with folks struggling with religious trauma, substance use, relationship issues, personality disorders, C-PTSD and 2SLGBTQlA+ issues, however I am happy to work with you on whatever you may bring to the space with you.
There is no one right way to heal. My approach is collaborative, trauma-informed and person-centred, and incorporates elements of ACT, DBT, narrative therapy, and family systems theory. I have a background in community-based addiction and mental health care, and my values are grounded in the principles of anti-oppression and harm reduction.
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.
I help individuals with symptoms of anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, and mood disorders.
I strongly believe that when an individual allows themselves to be vulnerable and honest with themselves, they have the potential to self-actualize and become their best self.
I help individuals with symptoms of anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, and mood disorders.
I strongly believe that when an individual allows themselves to be vulnerable and honest with themselves, they have the potential to self-actualize and become their best self.
I work with individuals experiencing challenges related to substance use, addictive behaviours, trauma, anxiety, depression and more.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or stuck? Or maybe you’re tired of telling yourself you need a change but struggling to find ways to make change happen. Juggling responsibilities, navigating transitions, or coping with emotional pain can be easier with support. Whether you're finding your way in today's world, facing addiction, or managing stress, anxiety, or depression, you don’t have to go through it alone.
I work with people of all ages, with a special passion for supporting youth and young adults through challenges like identity, emotional regulation, addiction, and life transitions—with a compassionate, empathetic approach.
I work with individuals experiencing challenges related to substance use, addictive behaviours, trauma, anxiety, depression and more.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or stuck? Or maybe you’re tired of telling yourself you need a change but struggling to find ways to make change happen. Juggling responsibilities, navigating transitions, or coping with emotional pain can be easier with support. Whether you're finding your way in today's world, facing addiction, or managing stress, anxiety, or depression, you don’t have to go through it alone.
I work with people of all ages, with a special passion for supporting youth and young adults through challenges like identity, emotional regulation, addiction, and life transitions—with a compassionate, empathetic approach.
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.
I offer help with a range of concerns, including Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, Transgender, Substance Use.
Does this resonate? 'I am so frustrated! What is going on in my mind?' I understand your frustration and the overwhelming thoughts affecting your sense of self. It's challenging when negative self-talk and low self-esteem dominate, creating a sense of isolation. Intrusive thoughts can feel confining, but together, we can explore and navigate your inner world. In our therapeutic sessions, you'll find relief and understanding in a safe, empathetic environment. Whether in-person or online, we'll collaboratively address and ease your thoughts, fostering a path towards emotional well-being.
I offer help with a range of concerns, including Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, Transgender, Substance Use.
Does this resonate? 'I am so frustrated! What is going on in my mind?' I understand your frustration and the overwhelming thoughts affecting your sense of self. It's challenging when negative self-talk and low self-esteem dominate, creating a sense of isolation. Intrusive thoughts can feel confining, but together, we can explore and navigate your inner world. In our therapeutic sessions, you'll find relief and understanding in a safe, empathetic environment. Whether in-person or online, we'll collaboratively address and ease your thoughts, fostering a path towards emotional well-being.
Substance use, trauma and other mental health issues can do horrible damage to someone's quality of life.
Authentic therapeutic connection changes things and it forms the core of my practice. I am a client-centered therapist with extensive experience counselling adults and teenagers with substance use, trauma, anger, anxiety, and depression problems. I like to think I have a warm and engaging counselling style that respects where you are at without expectations.
Substance use, trauma and other mental health issues can do horrible damage to someone's quality of life.
Authentic therapeutic connection changes things and it forms the core of my practice. I am a client-centered therapist with extensive experience counselling adults and teenagers with substance use, trauma, anger, anxiety, and depression problems. I like to think I have a warm and engaging counselling style that respects where you are at without expectations.
See more therapy options for Ottawa
Nearby Substance Use Counsellors Searches for Ottawa
- Almonte
- Arnprior
- Carleton Place
- Embrun
- Gloucester
- Kanata
- Manotick
- Nepean
- Orleans
- Rockland
- Smiths Falls
- Stittsville
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.