Substance Use Counselling in St Albans

Kelly Bohall
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Online Only
Are you struggling with anxiety? Entering a new stage of life and finding it discomforting? Thinking about your relationship with alcohol? Or maybe you’re on the waiting list for ADHD diagnosis and treatment and want to sort out how you can help yourself in the meantime. We are all searching to be heard and understood. I’ll be by your side to provide a safe space as you build your self-understanding. My previous experiences include working with substance abuse, diagnosed major mental illness, and chronic illness.
Are you struggling with anxiety? Entering a new stage of life and finding it discomforting? Thinking about your relationship with alcohol? Or maybe you’re on the waiting list for ADHD diagnosis and treatment and want to sort out how you can help yourself in the meantime. We are all searching to be heard and understood. I’ll be by your side to provide a safe space as you build your self-understanding. My previous experiences include working with substance abuse, diagnosed major mental illness, and chronic illness.
01480 271039 View 01480 271039
Deb Bowker
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Serves Area
Through Person-Centred Therapy, I work with adults, couples & families, & have both a passion, & specialist training, to work therapeutically with children of all ages, incorporating Play Therapy and Creative Arts Therapy when appropriate. As well as short & longer-term therapy, I also offer Single-Session Therapy; an opportunity for those who may not feel the need for multiple sessions, but who have a single, specific issue that they would like to work through, during a longer single session. Single-Session work is very flexible, & can extend if required, but can also end after one session if you feel that the work is complete.
Through Person-Centred Therapy, I work with adults, couples & families, & have both a passion, & specialist training, to work therapeutically with children of all ages, incorporating Play Therapy and Creative Arts Therapy when appropriate. As well as short & longer-term therapy, I also offer Single-Session Therapy; an opportunity for those who may not feel the need for multiple sessions, but who have a single, specific issue that they would like to work through, during a longer single session. Single-Session work is very flexible, & can extend if required, but can also end after one session if you feel that the work is complete.
01395 201087 View 01395 201087
Isidora Valetti
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Counselling offers a path to clarity, healing, and growth. It can help resolve past experiences, shift unhelpful behaviours, and strengthen personal and relational wellbeing. I have particular expertise in working with couples, providing a safe and empathetic space where you and your partner can explore the challenges in your relationship—whatever your age, gender, or sexual orientation. I offer tailored sessions focused on relationship support, including maintenance, repair, and deepened connect.
Counselling offers a path to clarity, healing, and growth. It can help resolve past experiences, shift unhelpful behaviours, and strengthen personal and relational wellbeing. I have particular expertise in working with couples, providing a safe and empathetic space where you and your partner can explore the challenges in your relationship—whatever your age, gender, or sexual orientation. I offer tailored sessions focused on relationship support, including maintenance, repair, and deepened connect.
01727 260314 View 01727 260314
Nicola M. Richter
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Life might bring inner and outer challenges - I wish you that you can grow from it and find inner peace - I am happy to assist you in this. I am here for you to talk about your emotional, psychological & spiritual/transpersonal and mindfulness issues. I taught at Universities and present at international conferences. My practice is open for in person & video sessions. With 30+ years of practice I offer you a confidential space to explore your feelings and thoughts e.g. about anxiety, depression, suicide, relationships, death and dying, spiritual journey, meaning in life. I am here for you for any other issue you wish to explore.
Life might bring inner and outer challenges - I wish you that you can grow from it and find inner peace - I am happy to assist you in this. I am here for you to talk about your emotional, psychological & spiritual/transpersonal and mindfulness issues. I taught at Universities and present at international conferences. My practice is open for in person & video sessions. With 30+ years of practice I offer you a confidential space to explore your feelings and thoughts e.g. about anxiety, depression, suicide, relationships, death and dying, spiritual journey, meaning in life. I am here for you for any other issue you wish to explore.
01727 750088 View 01727 750088
Marc Hamilton
Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
My approach to therapy is informed by ongoing developments in psychological knowledge and research, and is caring and sensitive to your individual needs. Therapy and treatment for a variety of issues, including: anxiety, relationships, couple therapy, depression, stress, trauma, self esteem, workplace issues, dealing with health difficulties, drug and alcohol problems, life difficulties and transition and well being.
My approach to therapy is informed by ongoing developments in psychological knowledge and research, and is caring and sensitive to your individual needs. Therapy and treatment for a variety of issues, including: anxiety, relationships, couple therapy, depression, stress, trauma, self esteem, workplace issues, dealing with health difficulties, drug and alcohol problems, life difficulties and transition and well being.
01727 222440 View 01727 222440
Clive Copeman
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Right from the start of our lives, we pick up puzzle pieces from others. First from our parents, then from friends... and their friends, then the news, the workplace, the internet, the world... from everywhere! From life! And these puzzle pieces gradually arrange themselves over our inner beings, until we might even forget what it looked or felt like to actually be ourselves.
Right from the start of our lives, we pick up puzzle pieces from others. First from our parents, then from friends... and their friends, then the news, the workplace, the internet, the world... from everywhere! From life! And these puzzle pieces gradually arrange themselves over our inner beings, until we might even forget what it looked or felt like to actually be ourselves.
01727 326815 View 01727 326815
Dan Angel
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
It's ok not to be ok... Your issues, conflicts, feelings and emotions are always valid. Even if it seems like other people have experienced ‘worse’ or experienced the same and don’t feel affected by them. Even if what troubles you happened a long time ago, even if no one knows, your hurting is real and you deserve a space to talk about it. It isn’t desperate or needy or attention-seeking, it’s self-care and probably the bravest thing you’ll ever do...
It's ok not to be ok... Your issues, conflicts, feelings and emotions are always valid. Even if it seems like other people have experienced ‘worse’ or experienced the same and don’t feel affected by them. Even if what troubles you happened a long time ago, even if no one knows, your hurting is real and you deserve a space to talk about it. It isn’t desperate or needy or attention-seeking, it’s self-care and probably the bravest thing you’ll ever do...
023 8214 7871 View 023 8214 7871
Helen O'Gorman
Counsellor, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
I help people who feel stuck to move forward, so they can have a better life. Has that thing you turn to for brief relief just trapped you again in guilt and regret? Or perhaps you’ve just had the same argument in another form - you want closeness but find yourself caught in patterns that seem to push it away, locking you in a cycle of distance and blame. You want things to be different, yet somehow end up in the same painful place - repeating patterns that leave you frustrated, ashamed or alone. I can help you make sense of what keeps pulling you back - so you can feel steadier and more in charge of your life.
I help people who feel stuck to move forward, so they can have a better life. Has that thing you turn to for brief relief just trapped you again in guilt and regret? Or perhaps you’ve just had the same argument in another form - you want closeness but find yourself caught in patterns that seem to push it away, locking you in a cycle of distance and blame. You want things to be different, yet somehow end up in the same painful place - repeating patterns that leave you frustrated, ashamed or alone. I can help you make sense of what keeps pulling you back - so you can feel steadier and more in charge of your life.
01582 377820 View 01582 377820
Mandy Williams
Psychotherapist, MBACP
I am a fully qualified and experienced Integrative Psychotherapist/Counsellor offering individual or couples therapy face to face or online, I am also a counselling supervisor. Taking the first steps to access counselling may feel a little overwhelming but this can lead to increased self esteem and knowledge, better relationships with loved ones and a greater quality of life. I offer a safe, warm and comfortable environment to work together to explore what may be going on for you and discover opportunities for change.
I am a fully qualified and experienced Integrative Psychotherapist/Counsellor offering individual or couples therapy face to face or online, I am also a counselling supervisor. Taking the first steps to access counselling may feel a little overwhelming but this can lead to increased self esteem and knowledge, better relationships with loved ones and a greater quality of life. I offer a safe, warm and comfortable environment to work together to explore what may be going on for you and discover opportunities for change.
01923 603692 View 01923 603692
Helena Meadows
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
1 Endorsed
I offer a synergy between psychology, hypnotherapy and psychotherapy to work in alliance with clients towards overcoming their personal challenges, managing stress and developing resilience. My work is based on a good understanding of the human functioning and psychological distress and how this can be creatively experienced and acted in unique, personal ways - and how to change, when dysfunctional. To find out more just get in touch.
I offer a synergy between psychology, hypnotherapy and psychotherapy to work in alliance with clients towards overcoming their personal challenges, managing stress and developing resilience. My work is based on a good understanding of the human functioning and psychological distress and how this can be creatively experienced and acted in unique, personal ways - and how to change, when dysfunctional. To find out more just get in touch.
01727 649753 View 01727 649753
Sue Pallenberg
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Hello, I have been working as a psychotherapist for 35 years, helping people to overcome problems when they are feeling overwhelmed, confused, perhaps depressed and anxious, struggling with relationships, or whatever difficulties life has thrown at them. As a Psychotherapist I can work with you in a unique and individual way that best suits your needs. I offer a safe and reliable therapeutic relationship in which to explore your presenting problems in a comfortable and confidential environment. I am also offering telephone, Skype or Zoom Sessions.
Hello, I have been working as a psychotherapist for 35 years, helping people to overcome problems when they are feeling overwhelmed, confused, perhaps depressed and anxious, struggling with relationships, or whatever difficulties life has thrown at them. As a Psychotherapist I can work with you in a unique and individual way that best suits your needs. I offer a safe and reliable therapeutic relationship in which to explore your presenting problems in a comfortable and confidential environment. I am also offering telephone, Skype or Zoom Sessions.
01727 875212 View 01727 875212
Carrie Pollard
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Hello and welcome. I'm Carrie. I wonder why now feels the right time for you to start your therapy? Does life feel heavy? Or relationships feel difficult? Perhaps you are finding you are experiencing anxiety in your day to day life. Or experiences from your past feel so difficult. Whatever has prompted you to make your way here today, rest assured I provide a non judgemental, confidential and safe space to explore emotions, relationships and life experiences. We can think about your past and present, creating a feeling of safety and processing the pain.
Hello and welcome. I'm Carrie. I wonder why now feels the right time for you to start your therapy? Does life feel heavy? Or relationships feel difficult? Perhaps you are finding you are experiencing anxiety in your day to day life. Or experiences from your past feel so difficult. Whatever has prompted you to make your way here today, rest assured I provide a non judgemental, confidential and safe space to explore emotions, relationships and life experiences. We can think about your past and present, creating a feeling of safety and processing the pain.
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Rebecca Noorian
Counsellor, MBACP
I work with adults experiencing relationship difficulties, anxiety in relationships and low self-esteem or feelings of not being 'good enough.' You may feel anxious or on edge in relationships but more confident when on your own, or notice repeating relationships patterns that feel difficult to change. You may struggle to express how you feel, leading to frustration, self-doubt or feeling overlooked.
I work with adults experiencing relationship difficulties, anxiety in relationships and low self-esteem or feelings of not being 'good enough.' You may feel anxious or on edge in relationships but more confident when on your own, or notice repeating relationships patterns that feel difficult to change. You may struggle to express how you feel, leading to frustration, self-doubt or feeling overlooked.
01727 326984 View 01727 326984
Dr Millie Witcher
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with 10 years experience working within Adult, Adolescent, and Child Mental Health settings. I have received further therapeutic training in Mentalisation Based Therapy (MBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) and have extensive clinical experience working with attachment difficulties and trauma. I believe that we all learn to cope with the difficulties in life in different ways and over time these ways of coping can become unhelpful or could be keeping us stuck. You can expect a welcoming, non-judgemental, curious and compassionate approach to work alongside you, towards your therapy goals.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with 10 years experience working within Adult, Adolescent, and Child Mental Health settings. I have received further therapeutic training in Mentalisation Based Therapy (MBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) and have extensive clinical experience working with attachment difficulties and trauma. I believe that we all learn to cope with the difficulties in life in different ways and over time these ways of coping can become unhelpful or could be keeping us stuck. You can expect a welcoming, non-judgemental, curious and compassionate approach to work alongside you, towards your therapy goals.
01582 377797 View 01582 377797
Vanessa Maier
Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Whether you're seeking improved wellbeing, better tools to cope with stress, anxiety or depression, experiencing burnout or just ready to explore some changes that could bring you closer to the life you want to be living, Vanessa can support you in this process. Using an integrative approach grown from over a decade of experience within various mental health settings, Vanessa now works privately with individuals experiencing both common and complex challenges. She is experience in Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, CBT, Mindfulness and Creative methods and is trained in Process Oriented Psychotherapy.
Whether you're seeking improved wellbeing, better tools to cope with stress, anxiety or depression, experiencing burnout or just ready to explore some changes that could bring you closer to the life you want to be living, Vanessa can support you in this process. Using an integrative approach grown from over a decade of experience within various mental health settings, Vanessa now works privately with individuals experiencing both common and complex challenges. She is experience in Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, CBT, Mindfulness and Creative methods and is trained in Process Oriented Psychotherapy.
020 3962 0425 View 020 3962 0425
Al Tyers
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Snr. Accred
Are you feeling low, lost or anxious? Are you looking for a supportive therapist who will listen to you and help you make sense of what’s going on in your life? I work with people who have anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues and depression, among other difficulties. Sometimes these emerged after a loss or setback, or maybe they are feelings that have always been there and now is the time to tackle them. Perhaps it's hard to even say why, or why now. Whichever it is, I’ll support you, listen to you, and help you understand what’s going on right now, how it relates to the past, and how you can make changes for the future.
Are you feeling low, lost or anxious? Are you looking for a supportive therapist who will listen to you and help you make sense of what’s going on in your life? I work with people who have anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues and depression, among other difficulties. Sometimes these emerged after a loss or setback, or maybe they are feelings that have always been there and now is the time to tackle them. Perhaps it's hard to even say why, or why now. Whichever it is, I’ll support you, listen to you, and help you understand what’s going on right now, how it relates to the past, and how you can make changes for the future.
020 8138 8599 View 020 8138 8599
Jannie Soliman
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Exhausted from constantly masking, overthinking, or feeling like your brain just doesn't fit the mold?" Whether you're navigating late-identified neurodivergence, processing trauma, or simply burnt out from pretending to have it all together, you don't have to figure this out alone. I offer a warm, genuine, and down-to-earth space where you can be heard, understood, and accepted exactly as you are. Jannie: 07555 399 750 In-person Wednesday's Only Anytime Online
Exhausted from constantly masking, overthinking, or feeling like your brain just doesn't fit the mold?" Whether you're navigating late-identified neurodivergence, processing trauma, or simply burnt out from pretending to have it all together, you don't have to figure this out alone. I offer a warm, genuine, and down-to-earth space where you can be heard, understood, and accepted exactly as you are. Jannie: 07555 399 750 In-person Wednesday's Only Anytime Online
07555 399750 View 07555 399750
Thomas Brosnan
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Let's be honest - You are here because would like something to be different. You are ready for change. You know the pain of over-giving. The ache of people-pleasing. The weight of high-functioning. And the silent exhaustion of always saying, “I’m fine,” when inside, you are actually anything but.
Let's be honest - You are here because would like something to be different. You are ready for change. You know the pain of over-giving. The ache of people-pleasing. The weight of high-functioning. And the silent exhaustion of always saying, “I’m fine,” when inside, you are actually anything but.
020 8059 4365 View 020 8059 4365
KJCounselling
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, PNCPS Acc.
4 Endorsed
Are you struggling to cope? Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, confused, depressed or simply stuck? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling numb, detached or unable to process your feelings? Do you feel angry, ashamed, scared or unfulfilled? There are often a range of emotions that people feel when trying to cope with troubling situations and it is not always easy to reach out for help, as people, including family and friends do not necessarily understand how to support you. I believe I can help. I offer a safe, welcoming, confidential space, where I can support you to unpack what's on your mind.
Are you struggling to cope? Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, confused, depressed or simply stuck? Have you experienced trauma that has left you feeling numb, detached or unable to process your feelings? Do you feel angry, ashamed, scared or unfulfilled? There are often a range of emotions that people feel when trying to cope with troubling situations and it is not always easy to reach out for help, as people, including family and friends do not necessarily understand how to support you. I believe I can help. I offer a safe, welcoming, confidential space, where I can support you to unpack what's on your mind.
01923 961489 View 01923 961489
Julie Field
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
Welcome! “The Privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are”Carl Jung. Whether it be at home, work, or in your personal life you may desire to make change and are unsure of where to begin.
Welcome! “The Privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are”Carl Jung. Whether it be at home, work, or in your personal life you may desire to make change and are unsure of where to begin.
07427 594809 View 07427 594809

See more therapy options for St Albans

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.