Photo of Kevin A Thomas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alhambra, CA
Kevin A Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alhambra, CA 91801
I offer a judgment free environment to explore your concerns, troubles, dreams, and questions. We will be on this journey together: I particularly like working with anxiety, stress, and career challenges. I also enjoy processing through spiritual questions and angst. Together, we will identify, clarify, and process emotions and ideas that are causing you discomfort. Just as importantly, we'll set goals together so you can effectively understand the progress you've made.
I offer a judgment free environment to explore your concerns, troubles, dreams, and questions. We will be on this journey together: I particularly like working with anxiety, stress, and career challenges. I also enjoy processing through spiritual questions and angst. Together, we will identify, clarify, and process emotions and ideas that are causing you discomfort. Just as importantly, we'll set goals together so you can effectively understand the progress you've made.
(619) 404-6737 View (619) 404-6737

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Caring Connected, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alhambra, CA
Caring Connected
Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, APCC, LMFT, LPCC, LCSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
Are you feeling disconnected, stressed, stuck, scared, or angry? Are you repeating relationships, patterns, or situations and wishing you could break the cycle? Maybe life feels more frustrating or stressful than usual. Sometimes we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we know we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. And even if we know what the issue is, change can feel impossible. That's where our team of qualified professionals can help. Our job isn't to judge you or your choices, it's to help you understand the root causes of your issues and work together to create a custom plan for change.
Are you feeling disconnected, stressed, stuck, scared, or angry? Are you repeating relationships, patterns, or situations and wishing you could break the cycle? Maybe life feels more frustrating or stressful than usual. Sometimes we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we know we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. And even if we know what the issue is, change can feel impossible. That's where our team of qualified professionals can help. Our job isn't to judge you or your choices, it's to help you understand the root causes of your issues and work together to create a custom plan for change.
(707) 317-6092 View (707) 317-6092
Photo of Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Alhambra, CA
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90015
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(949) 461-1089 View (949) 461-1089
Photo of Fertility Family Services, Peggy Daglian, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alhambra, CA
Fertility Family Services, Peggy Daglian, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203
If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I strive to help people uncover their strengths, while also learning how to adapt and adjust to difficult situations. I'm an interactive therapist who believes that the most effective therapy offers a balance of non-judgmental support with concrete tools and direction that will help you live a more fulfilling life. I work with people dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and other psychological issues.
If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I strive to help people uncover their strengths, while also learning how to adapt and adjust to difficult situations. I'm an interactive therapist who believes that the most effective therapy offers a balance of non-judgmental support with concrete tools and direction that will help you live a more fulfilling life. I work with people dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and other psychological issues.
(818) 824-6829 View (818) 824-6829
Photo of Victoria Ferdinand-Gant, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alhambra, CA
Victoria Ferdinand-Gant
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arcadia, CA 91007
My name is Victoria Ferdinand-Gant, I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been licensed since 2018 in California and have worked in the field of psychology and child and family services since 1997 (US and Internationally). The primary population I work with is in the treatment of anxiety and trauma. I also enjoy working with veterans since I am military raised. I am an eclectic therapist and will meet clients where they're at but my primary modalities are Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution focused skills, and Motivational work. I also enjoy working with couples.
My name is Victoria Ferdinand-Gant, I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been licensed since 2018 in California and have worked in the field of psychology and child and family services since 1997 (US and Internationally). The primary population I work with is in the treatment of anxiety and trauma. I also enjoy working with veterans since I am military raised. I am an eclectic therapist and will meet clients where they're at but my primary modalities are Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution focused skills, and Motivational work. I also enjoy working with couples.
(669) 239-2576 View (669) 239-2576
Photo of Zak Kozlow Poyo, Counselor in Alhambra, CA
Zak Kozlow Poyo
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90050
I am a Somatic Psychotherapist living and working in Los Angeles, California. I specialize in the mind-body connection. I have spent a majority of my career working to understand how it is that the mind-body connection is influenced by our development, by our world and by ourselves. When we look at our connection to ourselves, it give us vital information for healing and change. The work that I do with my clients breaks old destructive patterns and leads the way to healing deep seeded emotional injuries.
I am a Somatic Psychotherapist living and working in Los Angeles, California. I specialize in the mind-body connection. I have spent a majority of my career working to understand how it is that the mind-body connection is influenced by our development, by our world and by ourselves. When we look at our connection to ourselves, it give us vital information for healing and change. The work that I do with my clients breaks old destructive patterns and leads the way to healing deep seeded emotional injuries.
(323) 546-3432 View (323) 546-3432
Photo of Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Alhambra, CA
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90015
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(949) 694-3895 View (949) 694-3895
Photo of Larry Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alhambra, CA
Larry Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91104
Thank you for taking the time to read my bio. I bring over 25 years of experience in mental health, ranging from addiction to trauma. I believe in a strength-based approach in providing clients support because everyone has skills, talents, and abilities to tap into to assist them in overcoming life's challenges. I am a firm believer in a nonjudgmental approach to therapy so you, the client, feel safe, accepted, and empowered. I use a broad array of therapy techniques such as trauma-informed care, strength-based, systems solution-focused or brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, grief therapy, and much more.
Thank you for taking the time to read my bio. I bring over 25 years of experience in mental health, ranging from addiction to trauma. I believe in a strength-based approach in providing clients support because everyone has skills, talents, and abilities to tap into to assist them in overcoming life's challenges. I am a firm believer in a nonjudgmental approach to therapy so you, the client, feel safe, accepted, and empowered. I use a broad array of therapy techniques such as trauma-informed care, strength-based, systems solution-focused or brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, grief therapy, and much more.
(323) 940-5971 View (323) 940-5971
Photo of Paragon Psychotherapy, Inc., Psychologist in Alhambra, CA
Paragon Psychotherapy, Inc.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90020
Every therapeutic relationship and moment in session, is expressly unique. One that is devoted exclusively to you where memories of the past stream into thoughts of the future and all is said in a protected, confidential space. Whether you are dealing with relationship or trauma issues, or seeking treatment for various symptoms, the therapists at Paragon can help you to clarify underlying feelings reveal patterns - make the unconscious conscious. In doing so, therapy can enhance a person's sense of empowerment, enrich relationship experiences, illuminate the Self.
Every therapeutic relationship and moment in session, is expressly unique. One that is devoted exclusively to you where memories of the past stream into thoughts of the future and all is said in a protected, confidential space. Whether you are dealing with relationship or trauma issues, or seeking treatment for various symptoms, the therapists at Paragon can help you to clarify underlying feelings reveal patterns - make the unconscious conscious. In doing so, therapy can enhance a person's sense of empowerment, enrich relationship experiences, illuminate the Self.
(424) 288-7243 View (424) 288-7243
Photo of Victoria Gutierrez-Kovner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alhambra, CA
Victoria Gutierrez-Kovner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
Do you want to make changes in your life? Do you want to make healthy choices that will enable you to reach your full potential? Psychotherapy provides a healing relationship - a second chance at discovering our capacity to grow, to love, to reflect and to change how we react to the world around us. Through the connection of the therapeutic relationship, one is able to transform patterns of thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Today you are one step closer to creating positive changes in your life. It would be an honor and a privilege to join you on this journey!
Do you want to make changes in your life? Do you want to make healthy choices that will enable you to reach your full potential? Psychotherapy provides a healing relationship - a second chance at discovering our capacity to grow, to love, to reflect and to change how we react to the world around us. Through the connection of the therapeutic relationship, one is able to transform patterns of thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Today you are one step closer to creating positive changes in your life. It would be an honor and a privilege to join you on this journey!
(626) 658-3372 View (626) 658-3372
Photo of Jaynee Golden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alhambra, CA
Jaynee Golden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC-I
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90004  (Online Only)
I recognize the decision to begin or return to therapy can be rather challenging. For many of us, we avoid processing pain or confronting issues until a crisis arises, feelings become too unbearable, or life seems unmanageable. Therapy requires courage, strength, and trust in yourself & in your therapist. As such, regardless of where you are in your process, I will meet you there. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is paramount, symptoms are adaptations, and while change can be difficult, it is more than possible.
I recognize the decision to begin or return to therapy can be rather challenging. For many of us, we avoid processing pain or confronting issues until a crisis arises, feelings become too unbearable, or life seems unmanageable. Therapy requires courage, strength, and trust in yourself & in your therapist. As such, regardless of where you are in your process, I will meet you there. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is paramount, symptoms are adaptations, and while change can be difficult, it is more than possible.
(310) 601-8089 View (310) 601-8089
Photo of Efrain Zepeda, Psychologist in Alhambra, CA
Efrain Zepeda
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90032
Hello! I am Dr. Efrain Zepeda. I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Social Worker. In the past 23 years of working as a mental health professional, one important lesson I have learned is that the most powerful therapeutic intervention is found in the interpersonal connection that occurs in the client-therapist relationship. Together we can analyze the past to co-create a new meaning with the goal of achieving healing. I strongly believe that therapy is not about labeling or judging, but rather about personal discovery.
Hello! I am Dr. Efrain Zepeda. I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Social Worker. In the past 23 years of working as a mental health professional, one important lesson I have learned is that the most powerful therapeutic intervention is found in the interpersonal connection that occurs in the client-therapist relationship. Together we can analyze the past to co-create a new meaning with the goal of achieving healing. I strongly believe that therapy is not about labeling or judging, but rather about personal discovery.
(626) 702-3258 View (626) 702-3258
Photo of Amber Lopez Molnar, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Alhambra, CA
Amber Lopez Molnar
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Playa Vista, CA 90094
Starting a family is one of the most incredible yet nerve racking transitions one can go through. I specialize in Infertility, Maternal Mental Health as well as overall life transitions. The process of infertility treatments alone can leave a person feeling vulnerable, heartbroken and unsure about the future. Some of the core issues that I treat include; Postpartum Depression/Anxiety/OCD, Grief, and the transition of your new identify as a mother. In addition I enjoy working with the LGBTQ community as well as adoption and families of multiples.
Starting a family is one of the most incredible yet nerve racking transitions one can go through. I specialize in Infertility, Maternal Mental Health as well as overall life transitions. The process of infertility treatments alone can leave a person feeling vulnerable, heartbroken and unsure about the future. Some of the core issues that I treat include; Postpartum Depression/Anxiety/OCD, Grief, and the transition of your new identify as a mother. In addition I enjoy working with the LGBTQ community as well as adoption and families of multiples.
(310) 340-1927 View (310) 340-1927
Photo of Selah Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alhambra, CA
Selah Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, Coach
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arcadia, CA 91006
We are passionate about empowering individuals, couples, and families improve their quality of life in the face of adversity. In this healing journey, therapy is a collaborative process where you discover your inner strengths that aids in overcoming life's challenges and promote personal growth. It is about helping you make connections, resolve issues at its roots, and heal in a safe nonjudgmental environment. Our expertise includes working with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, trauma, domestic violence, parenting, women's issues, men's issues, spirituality, and more.
We are passionate about empowering individuals, couples, and families improve their quality of life in the face of adversity. In this healing journey, therapy is a collaborative process where you discover your inner strengths that aids in overcoming life's challenges and promote personal growth. It is about helping you make connections, resolve issues at its roots, and heal in a safe nonjudgmental environment. Our expertise includes working with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, trauma, domestic violence, parenting, women's issues, men's issues, spirituality, and more.
(323) 617-4711 View (323) 617-4711
Photo of Dre McGee Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alhambra, CA
Dre McGee Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026
I understand that the first step in seeking help can be overwhelming or even scary. I have a great respect for those who seek to improve their quality of life. My life's work is dedicated to help facilitate that process and help collaborate to create clarity. I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist providing psychotherapy to individuals and couples. I work and have experience with a wide variety of situations and life issues; depression, anxiety, transitions, burnout, relationship dynamics, adoption, and more. Specialties of mine include premarital counseling, young adult/college age concerns & transitions, EMDR, grief & polyam couples.
I understand that the first step in seeking help can be overwhelming or even scary. I have a great respect for those who seek to improve their quality of life. My life's work is dedicated to help facilitate that process and help collaborate to create clarity. I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist providing psychotherapy to individuals and couples. I work and have experience with a wide variety of situations and life issues; depression, anxiety, transitions, burnout, relationship dynamics, adoption, and more. Specialties of mine include premarital counseling, young adult/college age concerns & transitions, EMDR, grief & polyam couples.
(805) 290-1533 View (805) 290-1533
Photo of Marcia Berger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alhambra, CA
Marcia Berger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montebello, CA 90640
Hello, I'm Marcia Naomi Berger, an experienced, well-trained individual and couple's therapist. I integrate process, cognitive-behavioral, and psychodynamic approaches for each person's unique situation. I'm practical, friendly, accepting, and the author of two helpful books: "Marriage Minded: An A-To-Z Dating Guide for Lasting Love," and "Marriage Meetings for Lasting Love: 30 Minutes a Week to the Relationship You've Always Wanted." I typically work with clients who have relationship issues with a marriage or romantic partner, a family member, or a work associate.
Hello, I'm Marcia Naomi Berger, an experienced, well-trained individual and couple's therapist. I integrate process, cognitive-behavioral, and psychodynamic approaches for each person's unique situation. I'm practical, friendly, accepting, and the author of two helpful books: "Marriage Minded: An A-To-Z Dating Guide for Lasting Love," and "Marriage Meetings for Lasting Love: 30 Minutes a Week to the Relationship You've Always Wanted." I typically work with clients who have relationship issues with a marriage or romantic partner, a family member, or a work associate.
(562) 222-5615 View (562) 222-5615
Photo of Maggie Hernandez, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Alhambra, CA
Maggie Hernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
It can be challenging to find a therapist who gets you and can hold space for what you're dealing with. If you are looking to rediscover your life after surviving incredibly difficult experiences and want a relaxed environment, but a straightforward (no BS) therapist who treats you with compassion and respect, let’s talk. I understand healing can be messy and growth can be uncomfortable, so I blend empathy and genuine curiosity with dark humor and the occasional f-bomb to create a brave space for my clients to work through their most challenging experiences and achieve post-traumatic growth.
It can be challenging to find a therapist who gets you and can hold space for what you're dealing with. If you are looking to rediscover your life after surviving incredibly difficult experiences and want a relaxed environment, but a straightforward (no BS) therapist who treats you with compassion and respect, let’s talk. I understand healing can be messy and growth can be uncomfortable, so I blend empathy and genuine curiosity with dark humor and the occasional f-bomb to create a brave space for my clients to work through their most challenging experiences and achieve post-traumatic growth.
(805) 918-8218 View (805) 918-8218
Photo of David Ibrahim, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alhambra, CA
David Ibrahim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC, EMDR , EYRT500, ISTDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91203
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated Psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated Psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
(805) 420-7531 View (805) 420-7531
Photo of Alex Gallegos, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alhambra, CA
Alex Gallegos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90006
Hello, my name is Alex Gallegos and I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist (Lic. 101393) in California. I have been providing treatment for 14 years in mental health. I have provided therapy for adults, children, families, couples, and support groups. Some of the areas related to mental health that I have addressed are depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, domestic violence, and parenting problems, and I work with fathers struggling to parent their children as a result of historical trauma.
Hello, my name is Alex Gallegos and I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist (Lic. 101393) in California. I have been providing treatment for 14 years in mental health. I have provided therapy for adults, children, families, couples, and support groups. Some of the areas related to mental health that I have addressed are depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, domestic violence, and parenting problems, and I work with fathers struggling to parent their children as a result of historical trauma.
(415) 849-7926 View (415) 849-7926
Photo of S C (Stacy-Colleen) Nameth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alhambra, CA
S C (Stacy-Colleen) Nameth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, SEP, RYT
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91106
If you've become lost amongst obstacles on your journey, I'd like to help guide you to more happiness by offering suggestions, uncovering unwanted patterns, and leading you from the past to the present in order to heal and evolve, enhancing your happiness. Through changes in perceptions/attitudes and being willing to see situations with a new pair of glasses, you can reach your goals and evolve. My clients report that they enjoy my down-to-earth attitude and humor and my use of Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, TRM, meditation and yoga to treat mind-body symptoms. I work best with clients who are motivated to gain self-awareness and see patterns that are no longer serving them. I give homework between sessions in order to keep the continuity of healing working consistently. I feel very blessed to be working in a field that serves people who are finding their best selves and evolving into the people they want to be.
If you've become lost amongst obstacles on your journey, I'd like to help guide you to more happiness by offering suggestions, uncovering unwanted patterns, and leading you from the past to the present in order to heal and evolve, enhancing your happiness. Through changes in perceptions/attitudes and being willing to see situations with a new pair of glasses, you can reach your goals and evolve. My clients report that they enjoy my down-to-earth attitude and humor and my use of Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, TRM, meditation and yoga to treat mind-body symptoms. I work best with clients who are motivated to gain self-awareness and see patterns that are no longer serving them. I give homework between sessions in order to keep the continuity of healing working consistently. I feel very blessed to be working in a field that serves people who are finding their best selves and evolving into the people they want to be.
(323) 905-2256 View (323) 905-2256

See more therapy options for Alhambra

Alcohol Use Therapists

Are there specific medications for alcohol use?

There are oral medications approved to treat alcohol use disorder—such as disulfiram, acamprosate, and naltrexone, which also comes in an injectable form. These medications do help people reduce their drinking as well as avoid the problem of relapse. Naltrexone helps reduce cravings, disulfiram can make a person feel sick when they drink, and acamprosate may help ease symptoms like poor sleep and anxious feelings.

How do alcohol recovery or rehabilitation programs work?

In inpatient programs, individuals live in a facility with other patients in recovery; in outpatient programs,individuals live at home. These facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, psychologists, counselors, and psychotherapists. Staff can also include people who have recovered themselves, serving as mentors and guides. These programs may use abstinence, harm reduction, detoxification, psychotherapy, and other tools for recovery.

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 alcohol use reduce the amount of alcohol they intake. It is not abstinence-based like a 12-step program, but combining harm reduction with psychotherapy proves to be effective for many people.