Photo of Ryan Robert Jordan, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles County, CA
Ryan Robert Jordan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MSc, AMFT, APCC, CADC-I
Verified Verified
El Monte, CA 91732  (Online Only)
Some of my specialties: substance use services/weekly psychoeducational process groups, child/adolescent therapy, & family therapy.
During these uncertain times, mental health is of utmost concern. Isolation, anxiety, life stressors, & financial worries can all have a detrimental impact to one's mental health. Teamwork makes the dream work and I'd like to accompany you on the moon with a fishing pole! Personal connection can be hard to come by & one of my goals is to create a genuine connection. It might appear impossible to connect with an individual, talk about life, and progress in personal development, but we got this! If you are looking for someone to walk with you on a journey of self-discovery and "aha" moments, I look forward to meeting you!
Some of my specialties: substance use services/weekly psychoeducational process groups, child/adolescent therapy, & family therapy.
During these uncertain times, mental health is of utmost concern. Isolation, anxiety, life stressors, & financial worries can all have a detrimental impact to one's mental health. Teamwork makes the dream work and I'd like to accompany you on the moon with a fishing pole! Personal connection can be hard to come by & one of my goals is to create a genuine connection. It might appear impossible to connect with an individual, talk about life, and progress in personal development, but we got this! If you are looking for someone to walk with you on a journey of self-discovery and "aha" moments, I look forward to meeting you!
(323) 701-1208 View (323) 701-1208
Photo of John O'brien, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
John O'brien
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Panorama City, CA 91402
Hi, I am John O'Brien, License 138808. I favor an authentic, collaborative and supportive approach to therapy. I believe that the process of recovery can be achieved by any individual willing to partner with me in pursuing change. I believe that our life challenges will one day be our greatest asset. I work with parent-child conflict between teens and their parents, I specialize in treating individuals with substance use disorders, including those who are in the midst of a legal/employer case, and I enjoy treating anxiety disorders and depressive disorders.
Hi, I am John O'Brien, License 138808. I favor an authentic, collaborative and supportive approach to therapy. I believe that the process of recovery can be achieved by any individual willing to partner with me in pursuing change. I believe that our life challenges will one day be our greatest asset. I work with parent-child conflict between teens and their parents, I specialize in treating individuals with substance use disorders, including those who are in the midst of a legal/employer case, and I enjoy treating anxiety disorders and depressive disorders.
(747) 285-7141 View (747) 285-7141
Photo of Oscar Valdez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Oscar Valdez
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90041
I'm Oscar Valdez, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I work with individuals on issues like anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, life transitions, substance use, and spirituality. I use trauma-informed care, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), gestalt work, Motivational interviewing, and Client-centered work and I use the internal family systems model. I am a Unites States Marine Corps veteran and aim to follow a motto that I was taught leave it better than you found it. I aim to partner alongside my clients as a means to attain this goal.
I'm Oscar Valdez, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I work with individuals on issues like anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, life transitions, substance use, and spirituality. I use trauma-informed care, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), gestalt work, Motivational interviewing, and Client-centered work and I use the internal family systems model. I am a Unites States Marine Corps veteran and aim to follow a motto that I was taught leave it better than you found it. I aim to partner alongside my clients as a means to attain this goal.
(951) 366-1255 View (951) 366-1255
Photo of Amy Modlin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Amy Modlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90043
My name is Amy Modlin. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have 15 years of experience providing therapy for individuals facing a variety of issues. I specialize in addictions/substance use, depression/anxiety, trauma/PTSD, grief/loss, work-life stressors and life transitions. My approach to therapy is person-centered. I use a variety of modalities, including CBT, ACT, DBT, MI, and Mindfulness to help my clients develop the coping skills they need to manage their symptoms and achieve goals of overall well-being. I walk alongside my clients to guide the process of growth, healing, and increased insight.
My name is Amy Modlin. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have 15 years of experience providing therapy for individuals facing a variety of issues. I specialize in addictions/substance use, depression/anxiety, trauma/PTSD, grief/loss, work-life stressors and life transitions. My approach to therapy is person-centered. I use a variety of modalities, including CBT, ACT, DBT, MI, and Mindfulness to help my clients develop the coping skills they need to manage their symptoms and achieve goals of overall well-being. I walk alongside my clients to guide the process of growth, healing, and increased insight.
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Photo of Dr. Crystal Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Dr. Crystal Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, Ed D, LMFT
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212  (Online Only)
Hello! I’m Dr. Crystal Williams, a behavioral scientist and licensed psychotherapist based in Beverly Hills. I have a Master of Arts degree (MFT) and a Ph.D. in Education. I specialize in working with clients and families struggling with eating disorders and have nearly 10 years' experience. I also work with clients struggling with dual diagnosis (depression, anxiety, OCD, and bipolar) and all forms of addiction (substance use, gambling, sex and love, codependency and internet). I offer psychotherapy at its finest.
Hello! I’m Dr. Crystal Williams, a behavioral scientist and licensed psychotherapist based in Beverly Hills. I have a Master of Arts degree (MFT) and a Ph.D. in Education. I specialize in working with clients and families struggling with eating disorders and have nearly 10 years' experience. I also work with clients struggling with dual diagnosis (depression, anxiety, OCD, and bipolar) and all forms of addiction (substance use, gambling, sex and love, codependency and internet). I offer psychotherapy at its finest.
(424) 404-8575 View (424) 404-8575
Photo of Ashley Kretzschmar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Ashley Kretzschmar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
Welcome! I help my clients find hope and purpose, resolve current emotional struggles, and create an abundant, thriving life. Anxiety, depression, marital distress and disconnection; worries, confusion, exhaustion, hopelessness...these are a few of the concerns that bring clients into my office. Together, we can understand these problems and find solutions to create a life of joy and meaning. My training has been in mood disorders, marital therapy, substance use and codependency, and trauma. I love helping clients reach their goals - great mental health, successful relationships, healthy boundaries, you name it!
Welcome! I help my clients find hope and purpose, resolve current emotional struggles, and create an abundant, thriving life. Anxiety, depression, marital distress and disconnection; worries, confusion, exhaustion, hopelessness...these are a few of the concerns that bring clients into my office. Together, we can understand these problems and find solutions to create a life of joy and meaning. My training has been in mood disorders, marital therapy, substance use and codependency, and trauma. I love helping clients reach their goals - great mental health, successful relationships, healthy boundaries, you name it!
(310) 307-3627 View (310) 307-3627
Photo of Krystal Bowen, Psychologist in Los Angeles County, CA
Krystal Bowen
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
I have experience and training working with young, middle and older adults who presents with emotional distress, anxiety, depression, impulsivity, substance use disorders, and those who have experienced a traumatic event.
I am a Licensed Psychologist in LA, CA. I believe therapy is not a sign that something is deeply wrong with you personally, but sometimes we reach a stuck point (emotionally or mentally) and we do not know why, therapy helps uncover those stuck points to get you back on track. I have a deep interest in helping individuals gain perspective and other tools to navigate life's challenges, I focus on the doing the mental and heart work to ensure you are equipped to live at your highest potential.I utilize an eclectic approach therapy that allows me to draw from various forms of treatment to fit the needs of each individual.
I have experience and training working with young, middle and older adults who presents with emotional distress, anxiety, depression, impulsivity, substance use disorders, and those who have experienced a traumatic event.
I am a Licensed Psychologist in LA, CA. I believe therapy is not a sign that something is deeply wrong with you personally, but sometimes we reach a stuck point (emotionally or mentally) and we do not know why, therapy helps uncover those stuck points to get you back on track. I have a deep interest in helping individuals gain perspective and other tools to navigate life's challenges, I focus on the doing the mental and heart work to ensure you are equipped to live at your highest potential.I utilize an eclectic approach therapy that allows me to draw from various forms of treatment to fit the needs of each individual.
(818) 654-4610 View (818) 654-4610
Photo of Laura Curry, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Laura Curry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90044
My name is Laura Curry, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am passionate about helping others, providing support, and helping to advocate. Your mental health matters! I have various experiences in the field. I have worked in a residential substance use program, Methadone clinic, crisis residential program, community-based therapy, school therapy, county services for severe mental illness, and psychiatric health facility. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults.
My name is Laura Curry, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am passionate about helping others, providing support, and helping to advocate. Your mental health matters! I have various experiences in the field. I have worked in a residential substance use program, Methadone clinic, crisis residential program, community-based therapy, school therapy, county services for severe mental illness, and psychiatric health facility. I have experience working with children, teens, and adults.
(213) 668-7913 View (213) 668-7913
Photo of Stephen Finn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Stephen Finn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Winnetka, CA 91306
My name is Stephen (Steve) Finn and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Lebec, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with individuals, couples, and adolescents and specialize in anxiety and stress, using a variety of approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Seeking Safety to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for teens and young adults who may be dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, and substance use disorders.
My name is Stephen (Steve) Finn and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Lebec, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with individuals, couples, and adolescents and specialize in anxiety and stress, using a variety of approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Seeking Safety to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for teens and young adults who may be dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, and substance use disorders.
(747) 529-7276 View (747) 529-7276
Photo of Jennifer Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Jennifer Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Have you watched your teen struggle with school, relationships or peers? Do you feel like you’re both walking on eggshells, trying not to blow up? This can be very painful. It’s common for teens to struggle navigating social pressure and feeling comfortable being their authentic self. Unfortunately, many teens learn to shut-down, get angry, or find various harmful means to escape. This can lead to depression & anxiety. When left untreated, it can create long-term struggles such as addiction and relationship stress, which is why I also work with adults and couples struggling with substance use or unhealthy relationship patterns.
Have you watched your teen struggle with school, relationships or peers? Do you feel like you’re both walking on eggshells, trying not to blow up? This can be very painful. It’s common for teens to struggle navigating social pressure and feeling comfortable being their authentic self. Unfortunately, many teens learn to shut-down, get angry, or find various harmful means to escape. This can lead to depression & anxiety. When left untreated, it can create long-term struggles such as addiction and relationship stress, which is why I also work with adults and couples struggling with substance use or unhealthy relationship patterns.
(818) 629-0077 View (818) 629-0077
Photo of David Vest, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
David Vest
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carson, CA 90745
What doesn't hurt you makes you stronger.....but don't show your emotions!" Hi, I am David Vest, LMFT103919, in California and I specialize in trauma-informed. I have been practicing since 2010 and also work with anxiety, depression, cognitive disorders, substance use, and couples. I am most successful with adults and have currently limited practice with those over 18. I focus on the strengths and perspectives that people bring with them. I believe most of us already have many answers to our own problems and treat each person as their own expert.
What doesn't hurt you makes you stronger.....but don't show your emotions!" Hi, I am David Vest, LMFT103919, in California and I specialize in trauma-informed. I have been practicing since 2010 and also work with anxiety, depression, cognitive disorders, substance use, and couples. I am most successful with adults and have currently limited practice with those over 18. I focus on the strengths and perspectives that people bring with them. I believe most of us already have many answers to our own problems and treat each person as their own expert.
(562) 553-3649 View (562) 553-3649
Photo of Crystal Orabona, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Crystal Orabona
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
I've worked with youth and adults with severe mental illness and substance use issues in an intensive outpatient setting, and have spent the last four years providing services to incarcerated men and women.
I am here to support men and women ages 14 and up who are seeking to overcome anxiety, depression, and maladaptive habits. If you are tired of constantly feeling like you're sitting in the passenger's seat of your own life, let's work together to understand the "why" behind unhealthy or maladaptive habits, create awareness and understanding of who you are, and build confidence to get you back into the driver's seat. I believe in a holistic approach to therapy - physical, mental and spiritual. I believe you are the expert of your life; so let me sit in the passenger seat and assist with directions while you take the wheel!
I've worked with youth and adults with severe mental illness and substance use issues in an intensive outpatient setting, and have spent the last four years providing services to incarcerated men and women.
I am here to support men and women ages 14 and up who are seeking to overcome anxiety, depression, and maladaptive habits. If you are tired of constantly feeling like you're sitting in the passenger's seat of your own life, let's work together to understand the "why" behind unhealthy or maladaptive habits, create awareness and understanding of who you are, and build confidence to get you back into the driver's seat. I believe in a holistic approach to therapy - physical, mental and spiritual. I believe you are the expert of your life; so let me sit in the passenger seat and assist with directions while you take the wheel!
(951) 414-3471 View (951) 414-3471
Photo of Jeannine Colwell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Jeannine Colwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Azusa, CA 91702
Hi there, I'm Jeannine! My name is Jeannine Colwell and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist ( LMFT) based in San Diego, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with teens, adults, law enforcement, military, and veterans and specialize in anxiety, depression, anger management, substance use addiction, sports, coaching, etc. using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT) and Solution Focused Therapy, coping skills, coaching, to help my clients make progress and start feeling awesome again. My focus is all about you and meeting you where you are at! Looking forward to meeting you!
Hi there, I'm Jeannine! My name is Jeannine Colwell and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist ( LMFT) based in San Diego, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with teens, adults, law enforcement, military, and veterans and specialize in anxiety, depression, anger management, substance use addiction, sports, coaching, etc. using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT) and Solution Focused Therapy, coping skills, coaching, to help my clients make progress and start feeling awesome again. My focus is all about you and meeting you where you are at! Looking forward to meeting you!
(415) 818-0402 View (415) 818-0402
Photo of ProWellness Academy in Los Angeles County, CA
ProWellness Academy
PsyD, pd23205
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90067
The Professional Wellness Academy specializes in focused, integrated Counseling Treatment. ProWellness Academy services individuals, Hospitals, facilities and MAT physician’s patients suffering from Substance Use and/or Behavioral Wellness Disorders. ProWellness Academy has office locations in most major cities and also provides seamless Hipaa Compliant TELEHEALTH software for the home bound; we are committed to evidence-based, “Whole Approach” to treatment that incorporates multidisciplinary modalities. Hand-in-hand with our professional network of therapists, counselors, physicians, and case managers; we pursue excellence.
The Professional Wellness Academy specializes in focused, integrated Counseling Treatment. ProWellness Academy services individuals, Hospitals, facilities and MAT physician’s patients suffering from Substance Use and/or Behavioral Wellness Disorders. ProWellness Academy has office locations in most major cities and also provides seamless Hipaa Compliant TELEHEALTH software for the home bound; we are committed to evidence-based, “Whole Approach” to treatment that incorporates multidisciplinary modalities. Hand-in-hand with our professional network of therapists, counselors, physicians, and case managers; we pursue excellence.
(805) 429-6049 View (805) 429-6049
Photo of Alejandra Santana, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Alejandra Santana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arcadia, CA 91006
I have worked with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, domestic violence, women's issues, chronic illness & pain, substance use, relationship conflict, burnout, life transitions, caregiver stress, and more.
Hello and welcome, my name is Alejandra and I am a bilingual (Spanish) LCSW who specializes in mental health. I practice from a psychodynamic perspective, which means I pay attention to feelings and beliefs that emerge from one's lived experience. I work with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, work issues, and family issues and can include faith as a part of the healing process. I have experience providing mental health services to clients of all ages in a variety of settings such as schools, hospitals, behavioral health clinics, and non-profit faith-based organizations.
I have worked with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, domestic violence, women's issues, chronic illness & pain, substance use, relationship conflict, burnout, life transitions, caregiver stress, and more.
Hello and welcome, my name is Alejandra and I am a bilingual (Spanish) LCSW who specializes in mental health. I practice from a psychodynamic perspective, which means I pay attention to feelings and beliefs that emerge from one's lived experience. I work with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, work issues, and family issues and can include faith as a part of the healing process. I have experience providing mental health services to clients of all ages in a variety of settings such as schools, hospitals, behavioral health clinics, and non-profit faith-based organizations.
(408) 703-5304 View (408) 703-5304
Photo of Heather G Cowan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Heather G Cowan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Claremont, CA 91711
My areas of specialty are substance use/addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma recovery, family conflict, parenting solutions, life transitions, grief & loss.
As you are facing a major life change or attempting to find solutions for what holds you back, why do it alone? I will stand as a witness over your transformation, assist you in shaping your story, identifying your strengths and new coping strategies to propel you forward. Together we can explore barriers, collaborate on real solutions, and dispel any fear or shame. I have an eclectic approach incorporating Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavior & Narrative Therapy. I am also skilled in integrating spiritual and Christian beliefs in therapy. I work with children, couples, families, and individuals.
My areas of specialty are substance use/addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma recovery, family conflict, parenting solutions, life transitions, grief & loss.
As you are facing a major life change or attempting to find solutions for what holds you back, why do it alone? I will stand as a witness over your transformation, assist you in shaping your story, identifying your strengths and new coping strategies to propel you forward. Together we can explore barriers, collaborate on real solutions, and dispel any fear or shame. I have an eclectic approach incorporating Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavior & Narrative Therapy. I am also skilled in integrating spiritual and Christian beliefs in therapy. I work with children, couples, families, and individuals.
(909) 324-5260 View (909) 324-5260
Photo of Patti Rosenberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Patti Rosenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Patti. In this fast paced world, there never seems to be enough time for you. Being pulled in many directions, always feeling rushed, and like life is out of control. Maybe you feel alone even while surrounded by others, Does this sound familiar? I’ve spent over a decade working in the mental health field. My career began working with at-risk children and adolescents struggling with depression, anger, anxiety, substance use, suicidal ideations/attempts, and body image disorders.
Hi, I’m Patti. In this fast paced world, there never seems to be enough time for you. Being pulled in many directions, always feeling rushed, and like life is out of control. Maybe you feel alone even while surrounded by others, Does this sound familiar? I’ve spent over a decade working in the mental health field. My career began working with at-risk children and adolescents struggling with depression, anger, anxiety, substance use, suicidal ideations/attempts, and body image disorders.
(858) 524-3944 View (858) 524-3944
Photo of Dr. John P Rogers, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Los Angeles County, CA
Dr. John P Rogers
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PsyD, LPCC
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
In life's journey, issues, challenges, and hard decisions come up. Are you looking for a therapist who can help without judging, labeling, or making assumptions? As an experienced clinician, I recognize that if I am not grateful to help everyone, then I am not qualified to help anyone. I pride myself on creating a safe and supportive space to work collaboratively with my clients to overcome complex traumas, relational stressors, and barriers to their happiness and satisfaction with life.
In life's journey, issues, challenges, and hard decisions come up. Are you looking for a therapist who can help without judging, labeling, or making assumptions? As an experienced clinician, I recognize that if I am not grateful to help everyone, then I am not qualified to help anyone. I pride myself on creating a safe and supportive space to work collaboratively with my clients to overcome complex traumas, relational stressors, and barriers to their happiness and satisfaction with life.
(661) 387-2555 View (661) 387-2555
Photo of Dean Langas, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Los Angeles County, CA
Dean Langas
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, SUDCC I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90034  (Online Only)
Hi I’m Dean! I specialize in trauma and substance abuse but I have worked with everyone from just mental health, to dual diagnosis, specializing in anxiety and trauma. With my license I am able to see Clients in every state which is why I chose this route because I wanted to be available to those who really needed help. I am the counselor I needed when I was walking through the fire and I will be that for you. Whether your goal is to be able to get out of bed or to get sober or anything in between I will help you get there. I truly love my job and it doesn’t feel like work to me, you won’t be disappointed. Look forward to meeting!
Hi I’m Dean! I specialize in trauma and substance abuse but I have worked with everyone from just mental health, to dual diagnosis, specializing in anxiety and trauma. With my license I am able to see Clients in every state which is why I chose this route because I wanted to be available to those who really needed help. I am the counselor I needed when I was walking through the fire and I will be that for you. Whether your goal is to be able to get out of bed or to get sober or anything in between I will help you get there. I truly love my job and it doesn’t feel like work to me, you won’t be disappointed. Look forward to meeting!
(310) 928-9782 View (310) 928-9782
Photo of Bryan Hall, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles County, CA
Bryan Hall
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CAMF
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604
As a long time industry veteran, including years of being surrounded by highly dysfunctional behavior in recording studios, I understand the stress, hours, and pressure that creative people face. Whether its depression, abusive bosses, or creative blocks, we can work on unraveling the problems and getting through them. Similar to the "man behind the curtain" in the Wizard of Oz, there may be subconscious factors that are influencing your feelings, thoughts and decisions on a daily basis. Together we may be able to identify and neutralize any of these hidden or mysterious issues that appear to be holding you back.
As a long time industry veteran, including years of being surrounded by highly dysfunctional behavior in recording studios, I understand the stress, hours, and pressure that creative people face. Whether its depression, abusive bosses, or creative blocks, we can work on unraveling the problems and getting through them. Similar to the "man behind the curtain" in the Wizard of Oz, there may be subconscious factors that are influencing your feelings, thoughts and decisions on a daily basis. Together we may be able to identify and neutralize any of these hidden or mysterious issues that appear to be holding you back.
(323) 303-3987 View (323) 303-3987

See more therapy options for Los Angeles County

Substance Use Therapists

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, counselors, 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.