Substance Use Therapists in Ottawa, ON
See all counsellors in Ottawa
Amanda Neilson
Registered Social Worker, CYW, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified
Verified
Accepting clients. Providing virtual sessions for folks across Ontario and in person or virtual sessions for Ottawa folks. For over 20 years, I have specialized in treating people with problematic
substance use
and
substance use
disorders. I work within a compassionate, collaborative, and trauma-informed approach. The right way to make meaningful change is the way that works best for you. I'm here to work with you on finding that way.

Autumn Legue
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I offer couples and individual counselling to youth (12+) and adults experiencing struggles with their mental health related to
substance use
, concurrent disorders, emotional regulation, stress, interpersonal challenges, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem/self-confidence. I will support you by working with you to tailor treatment that is reflective of your individual goals and needs. I am motivated to help clients reach their goals, increase personal insight, recognize their strengths and resilience to overcome their challenges, and to develop coping skills that will help facilitate positive change in their wellness journey,
Waitlist for new clients

Whitney Wesley
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RP
Verified
Verified
If you're facing problematic
substance use
or addiction you probably feel tired, out of control, and maybe even hopeless. The good news is, there is hope and you're not alone. Addiction comes in many different forms and is a complex issue to manage. If you or someone you love are looking for help or support please reach out. I support people with
substance use
, misuse, abuse, dependence, mental health concerns, as well as their family and friends who often feel helpless or uncertain as to how to move forward.

Katrina Hutchingame
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified
6 Endorsed
Verified
6 Endorsed
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.
Waitlist for new clients

Wendy Nuttall
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RP
Verified
Verified
If you are concerned with your teen's - or another loved one's -
substance use
, I provide education, early intervention or treatment for dependence.
I specialize in substance abuse, emotion regulation problems, BPD, depression, anxiety, and internet overuse. I have more than 20 years of experience, many of which were with youths and their families. Prevention and early intervention of substance abuse are areas of focus, particularly with young people. My approaches include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. I am welcoming new clients.
Not accepting new clients

Matthew Atchison
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified
Verified
Much of my experience centers on
substance use
and addiction, and I hope to be supportive and helpful with a variety of issues from the day-to-day to the existential and spiritual.
Professional support can be vital on your journey towards healing, stability, or growth. My goal is to provide you with ethical, effective, client-driven and client-centered support. My approach prioritizes the uniqueness of your life context and history as well as your strengths and qualities. I care deeply about ongoing informed consent, trauma-informed care, and all steps with you being voluntary. I aim to empower and collaborate with you to best support you in reaching your goals.

Natalie Séguin
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified
Verified
If you are struggling, whether it be with mental illness(es); loneliness; feeling stuck; not knowing who you are, want you want, or why you are here; out of control thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and/or
substance use
; relationship issues; or if life is just really hard right now.
I believe the human experience is meant to be filled with joy and ease, along with some opportunities for growth, sometimes called challenges. Life can definitely become very challenging and everyone needs help along the way. I believe that when we can connect to our innermost selves, accept life’s challenges with grace, and treat ourselves and others with compassion and care, we can all live rich, meaningful lives. I know that we can and do recover from grief, mental illness, addiction, trauma, and all the hurts that life can throw at us.

Natalie Guenette
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP (Q)
Verified
Verified
Seeking professional help can be scary and intimidating. I aim to provide a safe and confidential space built on acceptance and openness. I provide therapy services in English and French to adults who wish to work on concerns including, but not limited to, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, interpersonal difficulties, emotional regulation, trauma/PTSD, and
substance use
and abuse. I work under the supervision of Dr. Karine Côté, Psy. D., C. Psych.

Jeff Walsh, The Village Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, PhD(c)
Verified
2 Endorsed
Verified
2 Endorsed
I have more than a decade of experience as a therapist. I focus on supporting people facing a variety of concerns including
substance use
, anxiety, depression, emotional distress, adjustment, life transition, and queer identity. I am also passionate about working with people affected by the mental health and/or
substance use
of a friend of family member. I have availability in my Vancouver office and virtual practice and invite you to book a consult to discuss more.

Lindsay Abrames
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified
Verified
Accepting new clients. Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of secrecy, shame, and isolation that often accompanies alcohol and/or
substance use
? Maybe you are wondering if you have a problem with substances, are contemplating change, or are interested in relapse prevention to sustain your gains in recovery. Alternatively, are you exhausted and feeling powerless as you navigate a loved one’s
substance use
and mental health concerns? Perhaps you are worried about your own well-being and want to reconnect with yourself. I also support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, chronic stress, and major life transitions.

Ayesha Ghouri
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CCC
Verified
Verified
Dealing with mental health and
substance use
can be a lonely and isolating experience. Having a safe space to untangle your thoughts and gain tools to better manage mental health can make a huge difference. I know sharing your stories and reaching out for help can be a difficult task which is why I strive to create an empathetic and safe environment to help you discover who you are and where you want to be.
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Wendy Elizabeth Brown
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, ICADC, ICCS, CCAC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
Wendy Brown is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. As well, she is a seasoned veteran in the field of Addiction Counselling for 30 years. Wendy's practice and experience has focused on the continuum of treatment, including harm reduction, stabilization, abstinence and relapse prevention depending on each individuals goals. She specializes in Issues of mental health and
substance use
for adults, young adults and youth. Challenges such as internal and external stressors such as grief, trauma, emotional regulation and issues related to the Criminal Justice System.

Hannah Walt
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
Life's challenges can feel insurmountable when we try to take them on alone, but with the right support even the hardest of times can become more workable. I work with clients aged 16+ who are experiencing anxiety, stress, low mood or low self-esteem, ADHD, disordered eating, and/or
substance use
issues. I also support clients in improving communication, connecting to a sense of meaning and purpose, and enhancing overall emotional wellbeing. Together we will begin help you understand your "stuck" points and shift out of old cycles that are no longer serving you, so you can live a life that feels authentic and meaningful for you.

Laura Randolph
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified
Verified
I have been working in clinical and community settings in mental health and addictions since 2011. I am honoured to support individual adults who are experiencing grief due to death or other loss, self-esteem and relationship issues,
substance use
, depression, anxiety, and traumatic injury. We all have within us a resilience to confront and handle even the most challenging of issues and I have such admiration of an individual's courage to explore and seek guidance in enhancing the quality of their life. A confidential, compassionate, and personalized approach to care is my priority.
Waitlist for new clients

John Robertson Counselling Services
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified
Verified
As an experienced therapist, I offer individual, couple’s and family counselling. Whether it’s addiction based issues, such as
substance use
, gambling and sex, or emotional issues from our journey as young children, many of these issues can be concurrent with many mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, etc. Any one or a combination of these can keep us from finding our true, authentic selves. Through therapy, we have the chance to be heard, believed and empowered. These are key to our mental, physical, emotional and spiritual recovery as individuals and together.
Ottawa, ON K1S
& Online
Waitlist for new clients

Kristina Scully
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MC, RP
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
Currently welcoming new clients of all ages! For both virtual and in person sessions with daytime and evening availability. Hi there! My name is Kristina Scully and I am a Registered Psychotherapist who has over 10 years experience working as a clinical therapist. I specialize in anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues,
substance use
, relationship issues, disordered eating and trauma. I have worked extensively with adolescents, youth and adults and I am also an experienced Parent-Child Therapist supporting families in the community.

Kurtis Herrington
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified
Verified
I know the process of finding the right therapist can be daunting, and I want to thank you for taking the time to consider me! I take great effort to ensure I am a flexible and adaptive clinician that will work hard to meet the needs of any person I see. Some areas in which I feel I can provide a specialized level of care include: Working with adolescents and young adults, the LGBTQ2S+ community and their allies, issues of
substance use
, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, self-image, communication, anger, relationships and identity.

G. Jeffory Lucas
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, RP, CCAC, ICADC, CCTACP
Verified
Verified
Is it time for you, or someone you know, to finally 'Get Real', in their lives? At 'Get Real', Addiction Counselling, you will find an accredited, experienced and caring professional. The primary focus is comprehensive therapy for
substance use
or addiction, including behavioural problems and related con-current disorders such as ADHD, Anxiety & Depression. Clients include individuals and families struggling with the effect of substance abuse / addiction(s) on their lives. I am a Ontario Registered Psychotherapist, and hold both Canadian & American International Addiction Counselling Certificates.

Andrew Mendes
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc , BScH, RP
Verified
2 Endorsed
Verified
2 Endorsed
I have over 20 years in the health and wellness field with a family and personal history that has driven my passion to helping others and the ongoing pursuit to improve my skills in this field. During my career I have been dedicated to support individuals (ages 16 and up) experiencing a range of adversities, such as anxiety, depression, trauma,
substance use
, anger management, stress, marital stress, grief, bereavement, displacement, and loss. I am also specialized in
Substance Use
Health and provide support to all individuals who are experiencing diverse range of issues related to
substance use
(self or others).

Max Monoogian
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified
Verified
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.
See more therapy options for
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.