Photo of andtherapy (DBT), Registered Social Worker in M6C, ON
andtherapy (DBT)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C  (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 Marty Petrovich, Registered Social Worker in M6C, ON
Marty Petrovich
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am experienced working with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, substance use concerns, major life changes and relationship issues.
Hello and welcome! I'm a Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist and I look forward to connecting with you. Searching for the right therapist can be a daunting task, especially when this is likely a vulnerable time in your life. I hope my profile can provide you with a bit of clarity and calm in your search. If we were to work together, my priority would be to build a trusting and genuine therapeutic relationship with you. I strive to provide a nonjudgmental, empathetic space for self-exploration, processing difficult experiences/emotions, and working towards your goals. I also always encourage feedback from you along the way.
I am experienced working with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, substance use concerns, major life changes and relationship issues.
Hello and welcome! I'm a Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist and I look forward to connecting with you. Searching for the right therapist can be a daunting task, especially when this is likely a vulnerable time in your life. I hope my profile can provide you with a bit of clarity and calm in your search. If we were to work together, my priority would be to build a trusting and genuine therapeutic relationship with you. I strive to provide a nonjudgmental, empathetic space for self-exploration, processing difficult experiences/emotions, and working towards your goals. I also always encourage feedback from you along the way.
(437) 747-3906 View (437) 747-3906
Photo of Margarita Miniovich, Registered Social Worker in M6C, ON
Margarita Miniovich
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
I work with trauma, grief, loss, anxiety, depression, anger, substance use, self-harm, eating disorders, LGBTQ2S+ communities, and refugees/immigrants.
My belief is that people come to therapy to have an experience that is markedly different from what they encounter in their daily life. My training and experience allow me to have the tools to provide an opportunity for that different experience, whether it is getting relief from anxiety, finding grace and gratitude in the midst of grief, or gaining clarity and calm in a situation of overwhelm and confusion. We work collaboratively and creatively to uncover the root causes of your distress or dissatisfaction, and address them without re-traumatization. Our work together is safe, deep, transformative, and often spontaneously joyous.
I work with trauma, grief, loss, anxiety, depression, anger, substance use, self-harm, eating disorders, LGBTQ2S+ communities, and refugees/immigrants.
My belief is that people come to therapy to have an experience that is markedly different from what they encounter in their daily life. My training and experience allow me to have the tools to provide an opportunity for that different experience, whether it is getting relief from anxiety, finding grace and gratitude in the midst of grief, or gaining clarity and calm in a situation of overwhelm and confusion. We work collaboratively and creatively to uncover the root causes of your distress or dissatisfaction, and address them without re-traumatization. Our work together is safe, deep, transformative, and often spontaneously joyous.
(647) 905-5403 View (647) 905-5403
Photo of Marlee Rubel, Registered Psychotherapist in M6C, ON
Marlee Rubel
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
I am trained to address concerns including, but not limited to: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, OCD, trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder, significant life changes, marital and couples counselling, substance use and addictions, grief and loss, as well as gender, sexuality, and queer issues.
I work with adults and couples to help them move towards a state of continued growth, compassion, and self-awareness in a way that is collaborative, strengths-based, and empowering. I believe in creating a client-therapist relationship that fosters authenticity, support, and space for both acceptance, and for change. This can begin in our very first session. Together, we can begin to tease apart the adaptive approaches to dealing with and moving through life you've grown accustomed to, and begin to decipher which of these patterns are serving you, and which you may be interested in moving beyond.
I am trained to address concerns including, but not limited to: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, OCD, trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder, significant life changes, marital and couples counselling, substance use and addictions, grief and loss, as well as gender, sexuality, and queer issues.
I work with adults and couples to help them move towards a state of continued growth, compassion, and self-awareness in a way that is collaborative, strengths-based, and empowering. I believe in creating a client-therapist relationship that fosters authenticity, support, and space for both acceptance, and for change. This can begin in our very first session. Together, we can begin to tease apart the adaptive approaches to dealing with and moving through life you've grown accustomed to, and begin to decipher which of these patterns are serving you, and which you may be interested in moving beyond.
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Photo of Raj Sohi, Registered Psychotherapist in M6C, ON
Raj Sohi
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, MHSc
Verified Verified
York, ON M6C  (Online Only)
I work with people who are feeling stuck either through the result of a recent event or due to long-standing issues that are now causing distress. Many of the people I work with struggle with anxiety, substance use concerns or have a history of trauma. Some of my clients are looking for short-term Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) interventions while others have tried brief therapy and are looking for longer term psychodynamically oriented treatment to make change at a deeper level. Sometimes people don't have clearly defined goals for treatment other than they want to feel better. That's okay.
I work with people who are feeling stuck either through the result of a recent event or due to long-standing issues that are now causing distress. Many of the people I work with struggle with anxiety, substance use concerns or have a history of trauma. Some of my clients are looking for short-term Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) interventions while others have tried brief therapy and are looking for longer term psychodynamically oriented treatment to make change at a deeper level. Sometimes people don't have clearly defined goals for treatment other than they want to feel better. That's okay.
(437) 747-4736 View (437) 747-4736
Photo of Melina Condren, Registered Psychotherapist in M6C, ON
Melina Condren
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
I work with adults coping with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, loneliness, trauma, substance use, low self-worth, life transitions, and grief.
If you’re feeling burned out, stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from others, therapy can be an important step towards change and healing. It can help you understand your needs, process difficult experiences, let go of harsh-self criticism, develop new coping strategies, and rediscover what’s truly important to you. I especially love helping clients reconnect with who they are under all of the masks they’ve been wearing for others, and supporting them in understanding and working towards their own unique vision for meaningful relationships and a fulfilling life.
I work with adults coping with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, loneliness, trauma, substance use, low self-worth, life transitions, and grief.
If you’re feeling burned out, stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from others, therapy can be an important step towards change and healing. It can help you understand your needs, process difficult experiences, let go of harsh-self criticism, develop new coping strategies, and rediscover what’s truly important to you. I especially love helping clients reconnect with who they are under all of the masks they’ve been wearing for others, and supporting them in understanding and working towards their own unique vision for meaningful relationships and a fulfilling life.
(289) 806-5394 View (289) 806-5394
Photo of Wayne Gray, Registered Social Worker in M6C, ON
Wayne Gray
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
York, ON M6C  (Online Only)
Wayne supports youth and adults seeking help rediscovering their self-worth, fortifying challenging relationships, removing hurdles that intensify substance dependence, or living with a mental health diagnosis. With over a decade of experience in community mental health and substance use, Wayne is able to address addiction, chronic stress, insecurity, depression and anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Couples therapy work has also been a particular passion for Wayne. He can support you in exploring and refining communication, context, compromise, and chemistry.
Wayne supports youth and adults seeking help rediscovering their self-worth, fortifying challenging relationships, removing hurdles that intensify substance dependence, or living with a mental health diagnosis. With over a decade of experience in community mental health and substance use, Wayne is able to address addiction, chronic stress, insecurity, depression and anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Couples therapy work has also been a particular passion for Wayne. He can support you in exploring and refining communication, context, compromise, and chemistry.
(437) 500-6299 View (437) 500-6299
Photo of Leslie Ann Molnar, Registered Social Worker in M6C, ON
Leslie Ann Molnar
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience in working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and have facilitated workshops and trainings for groups in areas including: trauma-informed care, the connection between mental health and chronic health, and the dynamics between substance use and interpersonal trauma.
Life is a process and journey that takes us in several different directions; sometimes we come to a crossroads where we must reconsider the direction our life is taking. Navigating the countless opportunities and challenges in life can often be overwhelming. In my practice, I work with you to explore options and possibilities for change; I believe that knowing you have choices in your life can foster hope and confidence in reaching your desired goals. As a trained Mental Health Practitioner and Addiction Specialist my areas of specialty include addictions, trauma, mood and anxiety disorders and interpersonal conflict.
I have extensive experience in working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and have facilitated workshops and trainings for groups in areas including: trauma-informed care, the connection between mental health and chronic health, and the dynamics between substance use and interpersonal trauma.
Life is a process and journey that takes us in several different directions; sometimes we come to a crossroads where we must reconsider the direction our life is taking. Navigating the countless opportunities and challenges in life can often be overwhelming. In my practice, I work with you to explore options and possibilities for change; I believe that knowing you have choices in your life can foster hope and confidence in reaching your desired goals. As a trained Mental Health Practitioner and Addiction Specialist my areas of specialty include addictions, trauma, mood and anxiety disorders and interpersonal conflict.
(437) 747-2885 View (437) 747-2885
Photo of Amanda Ross, Registered Social Worker in M6C, ON
Amanda Ross
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
Perhaps you are experiencing some inner conflicts that are keeping you stuck? Or previous coping strategies are no longer serving you? Or maybe something is off that you can’t seem to name? Through exploring your thoughts, feelings and body sensations we can see what patterns and ways of being you would like to keep, let go of, (re) discover and grow. Using compassion and humour, we’ll work together to understand your reactions and how to work towards chosen responses to help navigate you to a different place.
Perhaps you are experiencing some inner conflicts that are keeping you stuck? Or previous coping strategies are no longer serving you? Or maybe something is off that you can’t seem to name? Through exploring your thoughts, feelings and body sensations we can see what patterns and ways of being you would like to keep, let go of, (re) discover and grow. Using compassion and humour, we’ll work together to understand your reactions and how to work towards chosen responses to help navigate you to a different place.
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Photo of Jessie Kussin, Registered Social Worker in M6C, ON
Jessie Kussin
Registered Social Worker, RSW, BSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
I offer individual virtual therapy for adults and young people (16+), often focusing on themes including: anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, relationship concerns (with family, partners, friends), personal safety, responding to challenging emotions, sex & sexuality, gender identity and self-worth. With over 18 years of social work practice in the mental health field, I have spent the last 8 years providing individual therapy, working with young people and adults across diverse identities and experiences in a variety of community & post-secondary mental health services.
I offer individual virtual therapy for adults and young people (16+), often focusing on themes including: anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, relationship concerns (with family, partners, friends), personal safety, responding to challenging emotions, sex & sexuality, gender identity and self-worth. With over 18 years of social work practice in the mental health field, I have spent the last 8 years providing individual therapy, working with young people and adults across diverse identities and experiences in a variety of community & post-secondary mental health services.
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Photo of Jonathan Amor, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in M6C, ON
Jonathan Amor
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer Jungian / Psychodynamic Psychotherapy to people with a wide range of backgrounds, mental health issues and concerns. Whether you are looking for support through a difficult time or to embark on a deeper healing journey, my aim is to help you more fully meet, explore, feel, and process the root causes of the issues that get in your way - those blocks, patterns and wounds that keep you from moving towards realizing who you truly are and are longing to become. We work through this together within the context of a genuine, creative and secure therapeutic relationship that develops as we meet for the purposes of your healing.
I offer Jungian / Psychodynamic Psychotherapy to people with a wide range of backgrounds, mental health issues and concerns. Whether you are looking for support through a difficult time or to embark on a deeper healing journey, my aim is to help you more fully meet, explore, feel, and process the root causes of the issues that get in your way - those blocks, patterns and wounds that keep you from moving towards realizing who you truly are and are longing to become. We work through this together within the context of a genuine, creative and secure therapeutic relationship that develops as we meet for the purposes of your healing.
(437) 500-6678 View (437) 500-6678
Photo of Karen Lynn Goslin, Registered Social Worker in M6C, ON
Karen Lynn Goslin
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6C
With over 30 years of clinical experience, I welcome Children, Teens, Adults, Couples & Families into my practice who are facing anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, grief, addiction, chronic pain/illness, or stress from relationship conflicts. I specialize in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Relapse Prevention Therapy, and Self-Care which are personalized to your unique circumstance. I also provide a special Couple's Program and a Deeper Healing Program that addresses pain and utilizes strength to repair.
With over 30 years of clinical experience, I welcome Children, Teens, Adults, Couples & Families into my practice who are facing anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, grief, addiction, chronic pain/illness, or stress from relationship conflicts. I specialize in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Relapse Prevention Therapy, and Self-Care which are personalized to your unique circumstance. I also provide a special Couple's Program and a Deeper Healing Program that addresses pain and utilizes strength to repair.
(647) 696-9623 View (647) 696-9623
Photo of Denise Lawee, Registered Social Worker in M6C, ON
Denise Lawee
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
I am an experienced therapist with 34 years of practice to draw upon. I will listen carefully as you describe the issues that you need support and help to sort out. Often, an increased understanding of the challenges that you face can be very helpful to move forward in your life. As well, learning some new skills to manage the issues and/or gaining a new perspective on the issues can be useful as well. I appreciate that it is not easy to embark on a therapy course so I make every effort to be supportive and understanding as we build a therapy relationship.
I am an experienced therapist with 34 years of practice to draw upon. I will listen carefully as you describe the issues that you need support and help to sort out. Often, an increased understanding of the challenges that you face can be very helpful to move forward in your life. As well, learning some new skills to manage the issues and/or gaining a new perspective on the issues can be useful as well. I appreciate that it is not easy to embark on a therapy course so I make every effort to be supportive and understanding as we build a therapy relationship.
(289) 271-1256 View (289) 271-1256
Photo of Keisha Greene, Registered Psychotherapist in M6C, ON
Keisha Greene
Registered Psychotherapist, HBSc, MA, EdD, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Let's face it, sometimes life get complicated. It comes with many stressors and challenges. In these moments it becomes easy to get trapped in negative self-talk cycles, bouts of low mood, high levels of anxiety or stress and an uncertainty of what do next. As a psychotherapist I aim to work with you to develop skills and resources to combat the stressors that you are experiencing in life. I acknowledge that every person is a unique and complex human being and as a result I welcome you, as you are in order to help you become the person that you want to be.
Let's face it, sometimes life get complicated. It comes with many stressors and challenges. In these moments it becomes easy to get trapped in negative self-talk cycles, bouts of low mood, high levels of anxiety or stress and an uncertainty of what do next. As a psychotherapist I aim to work with you to develop skills and resources to combat the stressors that you are experiencing in life. I acknowledge that every person is a unique and complex human being and as a result I welcome you, as you are in order to help you become the person that you want to be.
(647) 930-1673 View (647) 930-1673
Photo of Avrum AN Nadigel, Registered Social Worker in M6C, ON
Avrum AN Nadigel
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BComm
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
Since the mid-90s, I have worked with singles who fear commitment, gridlocked couples, and parents who worry about their teens. Informed by Bowen Family Systems Theory, I have learned what works (and what to avoid) to foster deeply meaningful relationships. I have published three books on fear of commitment, marriage and family therapy. I live in Toronto, Ontario with my wife - a child psychiatrist - our three boys, some fish and two gerbils.
Since the mid-90s, I have worked with singles who fear commitment, gridlocked couples, and parents who worry about their teens. Informed by Bowen Family Systems Theory, I have learned what works (and what to avoid) to foster deeply meaningful relationships. I have published three books on fear of commitment, marriage and family therapy. I live in Toronto, Ontario with my wife - a child psychiatrist - our three boys, some fish and two gerbils.
(437) 370-3540 View (437) 370-3540
Photo of Natalie Gold, Registered Psychotherapist in M6C, ON
Natalie Gold
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, Gestalt, OAMHP
Verified Verified
York, ON M6C
As a Registered Psychotherapist, human being, and author of 'Binge Crazy: A Psychotherapist's Memoir of Food Addiction, Mental Illness, Obesity & Recovery' (2018), I view seeking help as a strength - requiring the courage and wisdom to reach your own truths. My practice, based in Gestalt therapy - a holistic, here and now approach encompassing any and all aspects of your life - includes other modalities to find what works best for you - from creative forms of expression to more structured methods. In Gestalt, you are the expert (on you) and I am the guide to help you explore what needs healing.
As a Registered Psychotherapist, human being, and author of 'Binge Crazy: A Psychotherapist's Memoir of Food Addiction, Mental Illness, Obesity & Recovery' (2018), I view seeking help as a strength - requiring the courage and wisdom to reach your own truths. My practice, based in Gestalt therapy - a holistic, here and now approach encompassing any and all aspects of your life - includes other modalities to find what works best for you - from creative forms of expression to more structured methods. In Gestalt, you are the expert (on you) and I am the guide to help you explore what needs healing.
(855) 997-7355 View (855) 997-7355
Photo of Anxiety-Depression-Emotion Dysregulation-CBT-DBT, Registered Social Worker in M6C, ON
Anxiety-Depression-Emotion Dysregulation-CBT-DBT
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6C
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, depressed, hopeless, lonely,confused, scared, frustrated or stuck? Are the issues that you are facing getting in the way of your daily functioning, enjoyment, health, relationships, goals, academic success, job performance and of the hopes and dreams that you have for yourself? Are you tired of feeling the way that you are and want something different for yourself? If you answered "Yes" to any of the above, then you've come to the right place! We can work together to help you move toward a healthier and happier place in a way that fits for you.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, depressed, hopeless, lonely,confused, scared, frustrated or stuck? Are the issues that you are facing getting in the way of your daily functioning, enjoyment, health, relationships, goals, academic success, job performance and of the hopes and dreams that you have for yourself? Are you tired of feeling the way that you are and want something different for yourself? If you answered "Yes" to any of the above, then you've come to the right place! We can work together to help you move toward a healthier and happier place in a way that fits for you.
(647) 930-5875 View (647) 930-5875
Photo of Lana Lontos, Registered Psychotherapist in M6C, ON
Lana Lontos
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
I came to Gestalt Psychotherapy after a decade of teaching yoga and meditation workshops in Canada, Greece, Mexico and Nicaragua. I noticed that wisdom practices (such as meditation, yoga, breath-work, and reflection) lead people to face vulnerability and perhaps even pain inside their minds, hearts and bodies. Many people have insights about themselves, but they believe they can mentally figure it out on their own. We are not meant to do all the processing on our own. The therapeutic relationship allows us the support of a compassionate and trained witness so we can explore what is present.
I came to Gestalt Psychotherapy after a decade of teaching yoga and meditation workshops in Canada, Greece, Mexico and Nicaragua. I noticed that wisdom practices (such as meditation, yoga, breath-work, and reflection) lead people to face vulnerability and perhaps even pain inside their minds, hearts and bodies. Many people have insights about themselves, but they believe they can mentally figure it out on their own. We are not meant to do all the processing on our own. The therapeutic relationship allows us the support of a compassionate and trained witness so we can explore what is present.
(647) 955-2559 View (647) 955-2559
Photo of Gabriel Enxuga, Registered Social Worker in M6C, ON
Gabriel Enxuga
Registered Social Worker, RSW, BSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that each us carries inherent goodness inside of us, and sometimes we can become stuck. As a therapist, I see my role as creating a space where you can feel supported to explore the parts of you that are hurting and also to nurture your own inner compassion and wisdom. Working from a non-pathologizing approach, I believe that all behaviour meets a need. The work of therapy is to develop a deeper understanding of what purpose protective mechanisms like addiction, anxiety, and self-harm have played in your life, and what you need to feel supported to grow and change.
I believe that each us carries inherent goodness inside of us, and sometimes we can become stuck. As a therapist, I see my role as creating a space where you can feel supported to explore the parts of you that are hurting and also to nurture your own inner compassion and wisdom. Working from a non-pathologizing approach, I believe that all behaviour meets a need. The work of therapy is to develop a deeper understanding of what purpose protective mechanisms like addiction, anxiety, and self-harm have played in your life, and what you need to feel supported to grow and change.
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Photo of Christine Werbski, Registered Psychotherapist in M6C, ON
Christine Werbski
Registered Psychotherapist, MSW, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6C
People come to therapy for many reasons. A person may have experienced a life changing event. Perhaps a loved one has recently passed away. Perhaps there is a struggle with alcohol and drug problems or other mental health concerns. Psychotherapy gives you the opportunity to speak with someone who will listen and understand without judgement, provide a safe and trusting environment and offer professional guidance. Therapy can help you make more conscious choices, reconnect with your feelings and needs and gain more insight into relationships. It can also help you deal with crisis, loss, depression, anxiety, trauma and unhappiness.
People come to therapy for many reasons. A person may have experienced a life changing event. Perhaps a loved one has recently passed away. Perhaps there is a struggle with alcohol and drug problems or other mental health concerns. Psychotherapy gives you the opportunity to speak with someone who will listen and understand without judgement, provide a safe and trusting environment and offer professional guidance. Therapy can help you make more conscious choices, reconnect with your feelings and needs and gain more insight into relationships. It can also help you deal with crisis, loss, depression, anxiety, trauma and unhappiness.
(647) 955-5227 View (647) 955-5227

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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.