Photo of Sydney Kelman, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Sydney Kelman
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4P  (Online Only)
I am a registered clinical social worker, with experience supporting youth and young adults who are living with substance use and various mental health concerns.
I am a registered clinical social worker, with experience supporting youth and young adults who are living with substance use and various mental health concerns.
(647) 905-6090 View (647) 905-6090
Photo of Emma Stafford-Coyte, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Emma Stafford-Coyte
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6G
anxiety, depression), the impacts of trauma, interpersonal conflict, low self-esteem, substance use difficulties, and grief & loss.
I see you as the expert of your own experiences. I begin with meeting you where you are and work collaboratively with you to establish a strong therapeutic relationship. Foundational safety and trust is central to your healing process. My role is to bear witness, encourage you to look inward for insight and to explore patterns in your life. Together we can build internal resiliency for greater depth and richness.
anxiety, depression), the impacts of trauma, interpersonal conflict, low self-esteem, substance use difficulties, and grief & loss.
I see you as the expert of your own experiences. I begin with meeting you where you are and work collaboratively with you to establish a strong therapeutic relationship. Foundational safety and trust is central to your healing process. My role is to bear witness, encourage you to look inward for insight and to explore patterns in your life. Together we can build internal resiliency for greater depth and richness.
(647) 370-9835 View (647) 370-9835
Photo of Eleni Ionides - Addictions Specialist, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor in Toronto, ON
Eleni Ionides - Addictions Specialist
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, CCAC, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4P
Are you stuck in old behavior patterns and unable to move forward? Is your substance use interfering with your life and goals? Choosing the right therapist for you is essential to the success of your recovery. I am a Canadian Certified Addictions Counsellor (C.C.A.C) with over 10 years experience in the field of addictions in both inpatient and outpatient treatment settings. I completed my BA in Psychology from the University of Western Ontario and my Post Graduate Diploma in Addictions Treatment and Prevention from Georgian College.
Are you stuck in old behavior patterns and unable to move forward? Is your substance use interfering with your life and goals? Choosing the right therapist for you is essential to the success of your recovery. I am a Canadian Certified Addictions Counsellor (C.C.A.C) with over 10 years experience in the field of addictions in both inpatient and outpatient treatment settings. I completed my BA in Psychology from the University of Western Ontario and my Post Graduate Diploma in Addictions Treatment and Prevention from Georgian College.
(647) 952-6539 View (647) 952-6539
Photo of Tye Laframboise, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Tye Laframboise
Registered Social Worker, RSW/BSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M1T  (Online Only)
My name is Tye (they/them) and I am a trans, agender, queer and neurodivergent person, who is passionate about working within community. I am a registered social worker in Ontario, and have over 6 years of experience working in mental health and substance use. I have a Bachelor of Social Work and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from McMaster University, and am currently completing my internship at Pink Opal Counselling for my Master of Social Work, with a specialization of Gender and Women’s studies at Lakehead University.
My name is Tye (they/them) and I am a trans, agender, queer and neurodivergent person, who is passionate about working within community. I am a registered social worker in Ontario, and have over 6 years of experience working in mental health and substance use. I have a Bachelor of Social Work and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from McMaster University, and am currently completing my internship at Pink Opal Counselling for my Master of Social Work, with a specialization of Gender and Women’s studies at Lakehead University.
(343) 321-2585 View (343) 321-2585
Photo of Rayne Jarvis, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Rayne Jarvis
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5V  (Online Only)
I draw upon CBT, DBT, IFS, EMDR, emotion-focused, and mindfulness therapies to address client health, substance use, mental health and social needs.
Are you thinking about taking steps towards healing and growth? My practice is guided by the principles of integrity, non-judgement, collaboration, curiosity and compassion. I view my clients holistically, and regard what they bring to therapy as subject to nuance. I spent over 10 years doing community-based harm reduction work. I am well-versed in working with clients to build an atmosphere where they feel safe, equipped, and empowered to address and overcome their unique challenges. I understand that such spaces can only be created by actively listening to and applying feedback from my clients and adapting my practice accordingly.
I draw upon CBT, DBT, IFS, EMDR, emotion-focused, and mindfulness therapies to address client health, substance use, mental health and social needs.
Are you thinking about taking steps towards healing and growth? My practice is guided by the principles of integrity, non-judgement, collaboration, curiosity and compassion. I view my clients holistically, and regard what they bring to therapy as subject to nuance. I spent over 10 years doing community-based harm reduction work. I am well-versed in working with clients to build an atmosphere where they feel safe, equipped, and empowered to address and overcome their unique challenges. I understand that such spaces can only be created by actively listening to and applying feedback from my clients and adapting my practice accordingly.
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Photo of Marlee Rubel, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Marlee Rubel
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6E  (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 Lauren Bulckaert, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Lauren Bulckaert
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4M
My over 20 years of experience in mental health and substance use and settings informs my work. I work with people impacted by their mental health, specifically anxiety, depression, ADHD and people who hear voices. I also support people to better their understanding of substance use in their life through harm reduction. With my extensive front-line social work experience, I support front-line workers navigating grief, loss and burnout. Finally, as someone from the 2SLGBTQ community who is non-binary and queer, I can support and bring lived experiences to the topics of coming out and navigating a gender journey.
My over 20 years of experience in mental health and substance use and settings informs my work. I work with people impacted by their mental health, specifically anxiety, depression, ADHD and people who hear voices. I also support people to better their understanding of substance use in their life through harm reduction. With my extensive front-line social work experience, I support front-line workers navigating grief, loss and burnout. Finally, as someone from the 2SLGBTQ community who is non-binary and queer, I can support and bring lived experiences to the topics of coming out and navigating a gender journey.
(647) 492-4270 View (647) 492-4270
Photo of Alora Martin Downie, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Alora Martin Downie
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5S
I support individuals with challenges related to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, substance use, relationship issues, connection, belonging, loss, grief, and stressful life changes. Through providing warm, experiential and compassionate support I aim to create a space that is accepting, empowering and has lots of room for exploration. I emphasize a holistic approach and the importance of exploring the mind body connection in healing. My practice welcomes individuals of diverse gender identities, sexualities, ethnicities, cultural backgrounds, ages, abilities, and lifestyles.
I support individuals with challenges related to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, substance use, relationship issues, connection, belonging, loss, grief, and stressful life changes. Through providing warm, experiential and compassionate support I aim to create a space that is accepting, empowering and has lots of room for exploration. I emphasize a holistic approach and the importance of exploring the mind body connection in healing. My practice welcomes individuals of diverse gender identities, sexualities, ethnicities, cultural backgrounds, ages, abilities, and lifestyles.
(437) 747-2892 View (437) 747-2892
Photo of Noah Mugenyi, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Noah Mugenyi
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP, Speaker, Author
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5H
Seeking individual, couples or family counselling? You are in the right place. If you are experiencing difficulty making a decision, feeling stuck and stressed, wanting to improve some aspects in your life or a relationship; I am here to help. You don't have to go through it on your own. Life challenges require both taking the first step & reaching out for the right support. Areas of focus: stress and anger, marital issues, anxiety & depression, ADHD, trauma/PTSD, family conflict, substance use/addictions, self-esteem & identity, grief, loss & life transitions. An internationally recognized educator/speaker on Mental health & workplace wellness, workplace stress & suicide prevention.
Seeking individual, couples or family counselling? You are in the right place. If you are experiencing difficulty making a decision, feeling stuck and stressed, wanting to improve some aspects in your life or a relationship; I am here to help. You don't have to go through it on your own. Life challenges require both taking the first step & reaching out for the right support. Areas of focus: stress and anger, marital issues, anxiety & depression, ADHD, trauma/PTSD, family conflict, substance use/addictions, self-esteem & identity, grief, loss & life transitions. An internationally recognized educator/speaker on Mental health & workplace wellness, workplace stress & suicide prevention.
(855) 725-3578 View (855) 725-3578
Photo of Vicky Li - Psychotherapy And Supervision, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Vicky Li - Psychotherapy And Supervision
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R  (Online Only)
Do you often feel lost and exhausted in your own thoughts? Are you struggling with substance use? Or do you feel that something is weighing you down but you just can’t seem to figure out why? If you are looking to gain some perspective on your thoughts and feelings, gestalt therapy is a good place to start. As a Gestalt therapist, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space to explore what is bothering you in the present moment. I am also excited to have the opportunity to work with student therapists and support them in this rewarding journey!
Do you often feel lost and exhausted in your own thoughts? Are you struggling with substance use? Or do you feel that something is weighing you down but you just can’t seem to figure out why? If you are looking to gain some perspective on your thoughts and feelings, gestalt therapy is a good place to start. As a Gestalt therapist, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space to explore what is bothering you in the present moment. I am also excited to have the opportunity to work with student therapists and support them in this rewarding journey!
(647) 370-5520 View (647) 370-5520
Photo of Marty Petrovich, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, 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 Nolan Blodgett, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Nolan Blodgett
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4X
I have experience working with youth and adults with an emphasis on and gender diverse folks and the LGBTQ2S community. I have supported clients with a range of presenting issues, including anxiety and depression, body image, eating disorders, gender/sexuality-related issues, personality disorders, intergenerational trauma, complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and substance use. My approach is grounded in a trauma-informed, intersectional anti-oppressive framework and I aim to foster resilience and empowerment using a warm, collaborative approach to support folks in meeting their goals.
I have experience working with youth and adults with an emphasis on and gender diverse folks and the LGBTQ2S community. I have supported clients with a range of presenting issues, including anxiety and depression, body image, eating disorders, gender/sexuality-related issues, personality disorders, intergenerational trauma, complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and substance use. My approach is grounded in a trauma-informed, intersectional anti-oppressive framework and I aim to foster resilience and empowerment using a warm, collaborative approach to support folks in meeting their goals.
(647) 691-0620 View (647) 691-0620
Photo of Sabrina Gaik, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Toronto, ON
Sabrina Gaik
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5B  (Online Only)
I support clients in the areas of couples therapy, relationship counselling, interpersonal issues, substance use, break-up, depression, anxiety, burnout, workplace stress.
My name is Sabrina Gaik and I am currently a student intern at Relationship Counselling Toronto, completing my MA in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. I help individuals and couples build deeper emotional connections, trust and communication. I understand how isolating it can feel to lack meaningful connection and how hopeless it can feel to be stuck in negative relationships. My goal is to help you feel more connected to the significant people in your life and the aspects of yourself that you push away. Together we can strengthen your resiliency to face life's challenges.
I support clients in the areas of couples therapy, relationship counselling, interpersonal issues, substance use, break-up, depression, anxiety, burnout, workplace stress.
My name is Sabrina Gaik and I am currently a student intern at Relationship Counselling Toronto, completing my MA in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. I help individuals and couples build deeper emotional connections, trust and communication. I understand how isolating it can feel to lack meaningful connection and how hopeless it can feel to be stuck in negative relationships. My goal is to help you feel more connected to the significant people in your life and the aspects of yourself that you push away. Together we can strengthen your resiliency to face life's challenges.
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Photo of Ashley Miller, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Ashley Miller
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6G
Welcome! Seeking out support can be a hard first step to make, but it is a sign of listening to your wise inner self. Getting to this step is honourable. Here’s a bit of who I am. I've been practicing for over 22 years, working in the social services field, specifically in community and hospital-based settings. My practice includes Mindfulness, Narrative, Psychodynamic, Trauma Focused, as well as Body Oriented Therapies. I specialize in treating survivors of trauma, as well as individuals experiencing mental health, relationship, parenting, academic stressors, life transitions, and substance use issues.
Welcome! Seeking out support can be a hard first step to make, but it is a sign of listening to your wise inner self. Getting to this step is honourable. Here’s a bit of who I am. I've been practicing for over 22 years, working in the social services field, specifically in community and hospital-based settings. My practice includes Mindfulness, Narrative, Psychodynamic, Trauma Focused, as well as Body Oriented Therapies. I specialize in treating survivors of trauma, as well as individuals experiencing mental health, relationship, parenting, academic stressors, life transitions, and substance use issues.
(647) 372-1026 View (647) 372-1026
Photo of Tracey Jastinder Mann, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Tracey Jastinder Mann
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6P  (Online Only)
I have experience in the following: supporting survivors of sexual/interpersonal/structural violence; harm reduction and substance use; grief and loss; anxiety and depression; PTSD; healing from racial trauma; navigating interpersonal relationships; workplace bullying; LGBTQAA identities; exploring kink; poly relationships; sex work; & migrant justice.
I am a queer femme of colour who is working to support collective healing and liberation by offering individual counselling. My work is centred in an intersectional feminist approach to therapy drawing from somatics, narrative and evidence based practices. My approach is to support individuals to build upon existing strengths and daily practices to ensure that they have the tools to live their life in alignment with their own values and desires. I see my role as creating a container to support a person in developing deeper accountability and consent in their relationship with themselves and with others.
I have experience in the following: supporting survivors of sexual/interpersonal/structural violence; harm reduction and substance use; grief and loss; anxiety and depression; PTSD; healing from racial trauma; navigating interpersonal relationships; workplace bullying; LGBTQAA identities; exploring kink; poly relationships; sex work; & migrant justice.
I am a queer femme of colour who is working to support collective healing and liberation by offering individual counselling. My work is centred in an intersectional feminist approach to therapy drawing from somatics, narrative and evidence based practices. My approach is to support individuals to build upon existing strengths and daily practices to ensure that they have the tools to live their life in alignment with their own values and desires. I see my role as creating a container to support a person in developing deeper accountability and consent in their relationship with themselves and with others.
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Photo of Nadia Y. Saad, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Nadia Y. Saad
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6E
Thank you for stopping by! I am a qwoc-identified, trauma-trained psychotherapist who combines elements of somatic experiencing, internal family systems, mindfulness, meditation and narrative therapy in my work with clients. I support individuals, couples and families around difficulties with mental and emotional health, trauma, identity, relationships, systemic barriers, substance use, self-harm, disability, and many other life experiences. My politics are rooted in decolonization and AOP.
Thank you for stopping by! I am a qwoc-identified, trauma-trained psychotherapist who combines elements of somatic experiencing, internal family systems, mindfulness, meditation and narrative therapy in my work with clients. I support individuals, couples and families around difficulties with mental and emotional health, trauma, identity, relationships, systemic barriers, substance use, self-harm, disability, and many other life experiences. My politics are rooted in decolonization and AOP.
(855) 969-4915 View (855) 969-4915
Photo of Heidi Cho, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Heidi Cho
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
I offer one-on-one individual sessions for adults and youth navigating themes of depression, anxiety, neurodivergence, grief, sexuality, gender identity, race/racism, childhood trauma, relationships issues, self-worth and harm reduction/substance use. I approach the exploration of healing and trauma processing with a non-linear, non-pathological perspective that recognizes the relationships between systemic oppression, intergenerational trauma, and adaptive survival/coping mechanisms. My hope is to ground our conversations in nuance, sensitivity and curiosity.
I offer one-on-one individual sessions for adults and youth navigating themes of depression, anxiety, neurodivergence, grief, sexuality, gender identity, race/racism, childhood trauma, relationships issues, self-worth and harm reduction/substance use. I approach the exploration of healing and trauma processing with a non-linear, non-pathological perspective that recognizes the relationships between systemic oppression, intergenerational trauma, and adaptive survival/coping mechanisms. My hope is to ground our conversations in nuance, sensitivity and curiosity.
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Photo of Margarita Miniovich, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, 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 Caroline Marson, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Caroline Marson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6S  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with constant rumination or worry? Do you experience self-doubt, or find yourself to be your own harshest critic when it comes to your thoughts, feelings, or actions? Do you experience mood swings, or struggle to express and identify your own emotions? Anxiety and low mood can be powerful emotional states, but they do not have to continue controlling your life. I work with youth and adults experiencing mood disturbances, anxiety, self-esteem challenges, life transitions, stress, relationship challenges, and more. I also support people struggling with ADHD, challenges with substance use, and histories of trauma.
Do you struggle with constant rumination or worry? Do you experience self-doubt, or find yourself to be your own harshest critic when it comes to your thoughts, feelings, or actions? Do you experience mood swings, or struggle to express and identify your own emotions? Anxiety and low mood can be powerful emotional states, but they do not have to continue controlling your life. I work with youth and adults experiencing mood disturbances, anxiety, self-esteem challenges, life transitions, stress, relationship challenges, and more. I also support people struggling with ADHD, challenges with substance use, and histories of trauma.
(647) 931-4782 View (647) 931-4782
Photo of Julie Brown, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Julie Brown
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5C  (Online Only)
Although I have experience treating a variety of issues, I have a specialized interest in eating disorders, addiction/substance use, and personality disorders.
I am here for those who have been left without support, invalidated, and let down. I hear that you are looking to be seen for the reasons behind why you are hurting. I am here to prioritize your needs and goals, and to support you on your journey to recovery.
Although I have experience treating a variety of issues, I have a specialized interest in eating disorders, addiction/substance use, and personality disorders.
I am here for those who have been left without support, invalidated, and let down. I hear that you are looking to be seen for the reasons behind why you are hurting. I am here to prioritize your needs and goals, and to support you on your journey to recovery.
(437) 747-2934 View (437) 747-2934

See more therapy options for Toronto

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.