Substance Use Therapists in Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC

Photo of Jaclyn Kahn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC
Jaclyn Kahn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC V5N  (Online Only)
I have over a decade of experience in the mental health field. I have extensive experience supporting adolescents and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, interpersonal challenges, grief, loss & trauma, and have specialized training in eating disorders, substance use and Emotion Focused Family Therapy. I have experience working with individuals, couples and families.
I have over a decade of experience in the mental health field. I have extensive experience supporting adolescents and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, interpersonal challenges, grief, loss & trauma, and have specialized training in eating disorders, substance use and Emotion Focused Family Therapy. I have experience working with individuals, couples and families.
(672) 906-0753 View (672) 906-0753
Photo of Jefferson Smith, Counsellor in Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC
Jefferson Smith
Counsellor, RCC, MCP, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC V5N
If you are dealing with challenges related to identity, self-acceptance, depression, anxiety, substance use, grief, trauma, interpersonal relationships, or LGBTQ+ topics we might be a good fit and I invite you to connect with me for a consultation.
Life is really hard and often painful. We all need support to find our way through this confusing and challenging existence. It truly helps to let our walls down and share what we are going through in safe, caring, and genuine relationships. This is what I am offering. From this place, you can find firm footholds and solid ground inside of yourself, empowering you to confidently move toward the future that you want. At times, the coping mechanisms we develop aren’t as effective, sustainable, or healthy as we need them to be. I want to help you learn how to care for yourself and get the most out of your life and relationships.
If you are dealing with challenges related to identity, self-acceptance, depression, anxiety, substance use, grief, trauma, interpersonal relationships, or LGBTQ+ topics we might be a good fit and I invite you to connect with me for a consultation.
Life is really hard and often painful. We all need support to find our way through this confusing and challenging existence. It truly helps to let our walls down and share what we are going through in safe, caring, and genuine relationships. This is what I am offering. From this place, you can find firm footholds and solid ground inside of yourself, empowering you to confidently move toward the future that you want. At times, the coping mechanisms we develop aren’t as effective, sustainable, or healthy as we need them to be. I want to help you learn how to care for yourself and get the most out of your life and relationships.
(506) 707-6929 View (506) 707-6929
Photo of Husain Vahanvaty, Counsellor in Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC
Husain Vahanvaty
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC V5N
Husain is a strength based and multicultural Registered Clinical Counselor (RCC) with experience working with adults, children & youth. Husain provides care for anxiety, panic attacks, mood disorders, depression, grief, trauma, stress-related disorders, brain injuries, relationship issues, substance misuse, PTSD, ADHD and/or bipolar disorders. Husain currently works at Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) as a Mental Health Substance Use therapist and works with complex clinical health cases. Husain also provides specific counselling to victims of assault and/or injury. This includes ICBC or CVAP clients.
Husain is a strength based and multicultural Registered Clinical Counselor (RCC) with experience working with adults, children & youth. Husain provides care for anxiety, panic attacks, mood disorders, depression, grief, trauma, stress-related disorders, brain injuries, relationship issues, substance misuse, PTSD, ADHD and/or bipolar disorders. Husain currently works at Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) as a Mental Health Substance Use therapist and works with complex clinical health cases. Husain also provides specific counselling to victims of assault and/or injury. This includes ICBC or CVAP clients.
(548) 490-2958 View (548) 490-2958
Photo of Surya Light Govender, Pre-Licensed Professional in Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC
Surya Light Govender
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSc
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC V5N
I am an art therapist who combines talk therapy with body awareness and the creative process. I enjoy working with adult clients with overlapping identities and welcome people living with addictions or in recovery, BIPOC, sex workers, folks exploring their sexual or gender identity, and people living with anxiety. I am biracial, queer, able bodied, cisgendered, and a settler on this land. I am also a parent with a deep understanding of the ways our chosen and birth families shape us.
I am an art therapist who combines talk therapy with body awareness and the creative process. I enjoy working with adult clients with overlapping identities and welcome people living with addictions or in recovery, BIPOC, sex workers, folks exploring their sexual or gender identity, and people living with anxiety. I am biracial, queer, able bodied, cisgendered, and a settler on this land. I am also a parent with a deep understanding of the ways our chosen and birth families shape us.
(548) 490-3498 View (548) 490-3498
Photo of Karina Crow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC
Karina Crow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC V5N
My practice offers integrative, individualized counselling and wellness sessions to individuals and couples in a non-judgmental and safe space. I am an ally in supporting diversity and welcome people who identify as counter-culturalists, nonconformists, creatives, musicians, and people exploring their meaning in the world. I provide virtual counseling and in-person Accelerated Resolution Therapy. I am a Registered Social Worker and have close to two decades of front-line and clinical practice in mental health and addictions. I have experience working with mood disorders, complicated relationships, trauma, anxiety, and depression.
My practice offers integrative, individualized counselling and wellness sessions to individuals and couples in a non-judgmental and safe space. I am an ally in supporting diversity and welcome people who identify as counter-culturalists, nonconformists, creatives, musicians, and people exploring their meaning in the world. I provide virtual counseling and in-person Accelerated Resolution Therapy. I am a Registered Social Worker and have close to two decades of front-line and clinical practice in mental health and addictions. I have experience working with mood disorders, complicated relationships, trauma, anxiety, and depression.
(604) 706-5052 View (604) 706-5052
Photo of Hugo Rosa, Counsellor in Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC
Hugo Rosa
Counsellor, PhD, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC V5N  (Online Only)
Thank you for taking a moment to look at my profile. I am a clinical counsellor who primarily provides care to populations that have more difficulty accessing health services. I am referring to people living in small towns and rural areas, the population that has an aversion to the healthcare system due to having previously faced barriers and prejudices, and also to populations who often find it difficult to access the system itself, such as immigrant and refugee communities. Beyond the principles that guide clinical practice, in the therapeutic space that I strive to provide, perhaps my greatest concerns are hope and human dignity.
Thank you for taking a moment to look at my profile. I am a clinical counsellor who primarily provides care to populations that have more difficulty accessing health services. I am referring to people living in small towns and rural areas, the population that has an aversion to the healthcare system due to having previously faced barriers and prejudices, and also to populations who often find it difficult to access the system itself, such as immigrant and refugee communities. Beyond the principles that guide clinical practice, in the therapeutic space that I strive to provide, perhaps my greatest concerns are hope and human dignity.
(581) 333-7095 View (581) 333-7095
Photo of Derek Taylor, Counsellor in Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC
Derek Taylor
Counsellor, RTCc
Verified Verified
Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC V5N  (Online Only)
As a tradesperson who's walked the path of recovery and reinvention, I understand facing challenges that impact every aspect of our lives and relationships. My clients, whether in suits or work boots, find someone who speaks their language. I don't just offer therapy; I bring professional training and lived experience. My toolkit? Integrated Wellness and Life Skills Counselling – the same fundamentals that turned my life around. Here, real talk leads to real change.
As a tradesperson who's walked the path of recovery and reinvention, I understand facing challenges that impact every aspect of our lives and relationships. My clients, whether in suits or work boots, find someone who speaks their language. I don't just offer therapy; I bring professional training and lived experience. My toolkit? Integrated Wellness and Life Skills Counselling – the same fundamentals that turned my life around. Here, real talk leads to real change.
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Photo of Caro Embling, Art Therapist in Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC
Caro Embling
Art Therapist, RCAT, BCATR
Verified Verified
Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC V5N
Hi, I am an art therapist. I work with people struggling with depression, anxiety, loneliness or who simply feel dissatisfied with their life and wish to maximize their well being and potential. I am comfortable working with all ages, genders, orientations, ethnicities and acknowledge the impact of colonization and systems of oppression on well being. I work collaboratively, with the belief that you have the inner resources; strengths, creativity, resilience and imagination to heal. I will provide a safe, gentle and compassionate space to help guide your journey of self-exploration and self- expression through art materials.
Hi, I am an art therapist. I work with people struggling with depression, anxiety, loneliness or who simply feel dissatisfied with their life and wish to maximize their well being and potential. I am comfortable working with all ages, genders, orientations, ethnicities and acknowledge the impact of colonization and systems of oppression on well being. I work collaboratively, with the belief that you have the inner resources; strengths, creativity, resilience and imagination to heal. I will provide a safe, gentle and compassionate space to help guide your journey of self-exploration and self- expression through art materials.
(867) 794-4633 View (867) 794-4633
Photo of Noel Tait, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor in Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC
Noel Tait
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, CCAC, BA
Verified Verified
Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC V5V  (Online Only)
Are drugs and alcohol interfering with your life? Thinking about making some changes but now sure where to start? Are you concerned about a loved one and need some guidance and support? Call me - I can help. Together we can discover choice, find hope, and create a road map for what to do next. Compassion, understanding and empowerment have been central to my own journey of recovery and are at the heart of my approach. I'm a Nationally Certified Addictions Counsellor and have been involved in all facets of Addiction Recovery for over 15 years.
Are drugs and alcohol interfering with your life? Thinking about making some changes but now sure where to start? Are you concerned about a loved one and need some guidance and support? Call me - I can help. Together we can discover choice, find hope, and create a road map for what to do next. Compassion, understanding and empowerment have been central to my own journey of recovery and are at the heart of my approach. I'm a Nationally Certified Addictions Counsellor and have been involved in all facets of Addiction Recovery for over 15 years.
(778) 400-1387 View (778) 400-1387
Photo of Ryan Salter, Counsellor in Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC
Ryan Salter
Counsellor, RCC, MA
Verified Verified
Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC V5N  (Online Only)
These brains of ours don't come with instruction manuals - figuring out how to navigate life is tough enough, but can sometimes seem impossible when we experience mental health difficulties. I specialize in working with people with BPD (attachment trauma), anxiety and OCD, couples, and folks who have complex difficulties and may have received multiple diagnoses. Therapy can be a strange process, I try to make it simple and straightforward. We get to know each other, and figure out if we’re a good fit. We get a clear picture of what the problems are, and what’s going wrong (and what’s going right) in your life.
These brains of ours don't come with instruction manuals - figuring out how to navigate life is tough enough, but can sometimes seem impossible when we experience mental health difficulties. I specialize in working with people with BPD (attachment trauma), anxiety and OCD, couples, and folks who have complex difficulties and may have received multiple diagnoses. Therapy can be a strange process, I try to make it simple and straightforward. We get to know each other, and figure out if we’re a good fit. We get a clear picture of what the problems are, and what’s going wrong (and what’s going right) in your life.
(844) 387-3580 View (844) 387-3580
Photo of Mary Kwan, Counsellor in Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC
Mary Kwan
Counsellor, RCC, CVAP, ACSprov, ICBC, CPC
Verified Verified
Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC V5W
Having practiced as a Clinical Psychologist overseas for 20 years, I am very familiar with all kinds of conditions. If you are having relationship with your spouse or others, I can help. You might be stressed out trying to parent your children, whatever age they maybe and esp for offsprings who have ADHD, Autism or learning problems, I love to help. Or you maybe depressed, anxious, wanting to work out your inner issues so that you can be a happy person, I am here to give you a hand. Or you might have a lot of pain/stress in your life, with various kinds of addictions not knowing where to do, I am here to help you find your way out.
Having practiced as a Clinical Psychologist overseas for 20 years, I am very familiar with all kinds of conditions. If you are having relationship with your spouse or others, I can help. You might be stressed out trying to parent your children, whatever age they maybe and esp for offsprings who have ADHD, Autism or learning problems, I love to help. Or you maybe depressed, anxious, wanting to work out your inner issues so that you can be a happy person, I am here to give you a hand. Or you might have a lot of pain/stress in your life, with various kinds of addictions not knowing where to do, I am here to help you find your way out.
(604) 330-4682 View (604) 330-4682
Photo of Rachelle Sayers, Pre-Licensed Professional in Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC
Rachelle Sayers
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC V5V  (Online Only)
My aim is to help folks get to the bottom of their concerns, and to support them in making meaningful changes in their lives. Sometimes we have the sense that something is not quite right, even if we cannot pinpoint what exactly it is. Other times we may want to get out of our heads and feel more present. Whatever your concern, I am here to support you in discerning what it is that’s in the way from allowing you to live the life you want to live. Together, you and I will work to identify and unpack your lived experiences and the values that inform where it is you want to go.
My aim is to help folks get to the bottom of their concerns, and to support them in making meaningful changes in their lives. Sometimes we have the sense that something is not quite right, even if we cannot pinpoint what exactly it is. Other times we may want to get out of our heads and feel more present. Whatever your concern, I am here to support you in discerning what it is that’s in the way from allowing you to live the life you want to live. Together, you and I will work to identify and unpack your lived experiences and the values that inform where it is you want to go.
(807) 808-5360 View (807) 808-5360
Photo of Georgia Schindler, Counsellor in Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC
Georgia Schindler
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC V5V  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with trauma, anxiety, stress, addictions or low mood? I can help. I have extensive experience working with trauma, addictions, low mood, self-esteem issues and anxiety in private practice and in a treatment setting. Therapeutically, I know how important it is to have a sense of connection, and a non-judgemental person to listen and understand in times of struggle, change and growth. Mental health is a spectrum and many of us go will go through periods where we need support. I invite clients to get curious about what is happening for them and to engage in the therapeutic process with self-compassion and an open mind .
Do you struggle with trauma, anxiety, stress, addictions or low mood? I can help. I have extensive experience working with trauma, addictions, low mood, self-esteem issues and anxiety in private practice and in a treatment setting. Therapeutically, I know how important it is to have a sense of connection, and a non-judgemental person to listen and understand in times of struggle, change and growth. Mental health is a spectrum and many of us go will go through periods where we need support. I invite clients to get curious about what is happening for them and to engage in the therapeutic process with self-compassion and an open mind .
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Photo of Tiela Warris, Counsellor in Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC
Tiela Warris
Counsellor, Ba, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC V5N
Welcome! I am Tiela and I provide compassionate care. I work with clients from all walks of life with an emphasis on easing life transitions, people pleasing tendencies, unpacking trauma, and coming back to who you are, or were. Do you have a hard time making sense of your feelings or turn off your emotions when something big happens? Do you have a hard time addressing issues with others, or do you find yourself unhappy when others get get their needs met? Do you put your emotions in a box and put it on a shelf? I can help you retrieve that box and unpack it.
Welcome! I am Tiela and I provide compassionate care. I work with clients from all walks of life with an emphasis on easing life transitions, people pleasing tendencies, unpacking trauma, and coming back to who you are, or were. Do you have a hard time making sense of your feelings or turn off your emotions when something big happens? Do you have a hard time addressing issues with others, or do you find yourself unhappy when others get get their needs met? Do you put your emotions in a box and put it on a shelf? I can help you retrieve that box and unpack it.
(778) 770-0157 View (778) 770-0157
Photo of Anja Hedji, Pre-Licensed Professional in Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC
Anja Hedji
Pre-Licensed Professional, MC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC V5N
I am a first-generation immigrant born in former Yugoslavia who has experience working with people of diverse identities. I integrate elements of varying theories to best suit the needs of each individual client. I approach each client with humility, curiosity and non-judgement, centering an anti-oppressive lens to best understand their experiences. I believe in the transformative power of creating a safe, collaborative space where healing can unfold naturally. By infusing warmth and adaptability into my practice, I aim to empower clients on their journey to healing.
I am a first-generation immigrant born in former Yugoslavia who has experience working with people of diverse identities. I integrate elements of varying theories to best suit the needs of each individual client. I approach each client with humility, curiosity and non-judgement, centering an anti-oppressive lens to best understand their experiences. I believe in the transformative power of creating a safe, collaborative space where healing can unfold naturally. By infusing warmth and adaptability into my practice, I aim to empower clients on their journey to healing.
(236) 358-5204 View (236) 358-5204
Photo of Nathan MacRae, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC
Nathan MacRae
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC V5N  (Online Only)
There is a path forward to a fulfilling and happy future for everyone. Working together, I can support you in cultivating compassion for yourself and others, taking pride in who you are, navigating relationships and moving through the difficulties that arise in life. As a queer trans person, I use an anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, intersectional framework, supporting the queer, trans, kink, and non-monogamous communities in unpacking identity, sex and relationship issues, emotional dysregulation, trauma, depression, anxiety and addiction. I offer gender-affirming hormone and top and gonadectomy surgical readiness assessments.
There is a path forward to a fulfilling and happy future for everyone. Working together, I can support you in cultivating compassion for yourself and others, taking pride in who you are, navigating relationships and moving through the difficulties that arise in life. As a queer trans person, I use an anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, intersectional framework, supporting the queer, trans, kink, and non-monogamous communities in unpacking identity, sex and relationship issues, emotional dysregulation, trauma, depression, anxiety and addiction. I offer gender-affirming hormone and top and gonadectomy surgical readiness assessments.
(604) 330-0117 View (604) 330-0117
Photo of Sara Lewis, Counsellor in Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC
Sara Lewis
Counsellor, MAC, RCC
Verified Verified
Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC V5N  (Online Only)
We might be a good fit if; you want to heal old wounds, address past traumatic experiences, or are not satisfied with your relationships. If you are struggling to manage emotions (including feeling numb), or want to better understand yourself, I can help. I will bring gentle curiosity, guidance, and will accompany you on your specific healing journey. I have worked with a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, grief, addiction, relationship and attachment issues, trauma & PTSD, and families impacted by dementia. I also have experience with law enforcement and individuals who have been incarcerated.
We might be a good fit if; you want to heal old wounds, address past traumatic experiences, or are not satisfied with your relationships. If you are struggling to manage emotions (including feeling numb), or want to better understand yourself, I can help. I will bring gentle curiosity, guidance, and will accompany you on your specific healing journey. I have worked with a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, grief, addiction, relationship and attachment issues, trauma & PTSD, and families impacted by dementia. I also have experience with law enforcement and individuals who have been incarcerated.
(431) 400-9495 View (431) 400-9495
Photo of Philip Starkman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC
Philip Starkman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC V5N
For over 40 years I've worked with individuals, couples and groups facing a full range of the many challenges that life presents such as: depression, anxiety, grief, addiction, couple conflicts, all manner of traumas etc. My clientele includes people from all walks of life, ages, sexual preferences, ethnic and religious backgrounds. In addition, I provide consultation and counselling to those wanting to optimize their talents and abilities. I see clients as social, physical, intellectual and spiritual beings, thus all of these areas are potentially addressed in our work together.
For over 40 years I've worked with individuals, couples and groups facing a full range of the many challenges that life presents such as: depression, anxiety, grief, addiction, couple conflicts, all manner of traumas etc. My clientele includes people from all walks of life, ages, sexual preferences, ethnic and religious backgrounds. In addition, I provide consultation and counselling to those wanting to optimize their talents and abilities. I see clients as social, physical, intellectual and spiritual beings, thus all of these areas are potentially addressed in our work together.
(855) 996-9417 View (855) 996-9417
Photo of Mike Kling, Counsellor in Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC
Mike Kling
Counsellor, BA, RCC-C, RPC
Verified Verified
Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC V5N
I believe in your innate capacity for change and am dedicated to helping you find your authentic self and emotional balance. With training in various therapies and insights from mindfulness and attachment theory, I offer a safe, inclusive approach. I specialize in trauma informed care and use a variety I offer an integrative and holistic approach that prioritizes your unique needs and goals.. I also focus on queer-focused counseling, including polyamorous relationships, transitioning, shame, self doubt and navigating a heteronormative world.
I believe in your innate capacity for change and am dedicated to helping you find your authentic self and emotional balance. With training in various therapies and insights from mindfulness and attachment theory, I offer a safe, inclusive approach. I specialize in trauma informed care and use a variety I offer an integrative and holistic approach that prioritizes your unique needs and goals.. I also focus on queer-focused counseling, including polyamorous relationships, transitioning, shame, self doubt and navigating a heteronormative world.
(506) 908-0267 View (506) 908-0267
Photo of Erica Dolsen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC
Erica Dolsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kensington-Cedar Cottage, Vancouver, BC V5N
Sexuality, intimacy, identity. Addiction and recovery. Relationships and connection. Grief and loss. So many of us wonder how to live in our skin comfortably. Who are you, and how do you want to live? The next question is how to bring that authenticity into your life, your relationships, your communication. Sometimes our bodies don't connect with our hearts and minds. Erotic and sexual diversity is a part of the human experience. If you're struggling with shame, belief patterns that no longer serve, or wondering if you're alone - there is hope.
Sexuality, intimacy, identity. Addiction and recovery. Relationships and connection. Grief and loss. So many of us wonder how to live in our skin comfortably. Who are you, and how do you want to live? The next question is how to bring that authenticity into your life, your relationships, your communication. Sometimes our bodies don't connect with our hearts and minds. Erotic and sexual diversity is a part of the human experience. If you're struggling with shame, belief patterns that no longer serve, or wondering if you're alone - there is hope.
(647) 557-3155 View (647) 557-3155

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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.