Substance Use Therapists in Santa Monica, CA

Photo of Nicholas Charles Russi, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAADC-S, CCS, ICAADC
Nicholas Charles Russi
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAADC-S, CCS, ICAADC
Santa Monica, CA 90402
It's important to note that I am a Counselor specializing in Substance Use/Addictions/Alcoholism AND other problems that commonly associated.
**Telehealth Video sessions are available** Are you having trouble controlling your drinking but feel like "rehab" isn't for you? Have loved ones in your life pleaded with you to stop? Is your alcohol or drug use causing relationship issues? Anxiety problems? I know exactly how your feeling. Alcohol or drug abuse can extremely difficult to manage on your own. For the last 19 years I’ve been helping clients navigate the personal recovery process and the trials and tribulations they come with it. If you are in a place in your life where you are ready to make some needed changes, I can help you be free from the grips of addiction.
It's important to note that I am a Counselor specializing in Substance Use/Addictions/Alcoholism AND other problems that commonly associated.
**Telehealth Video sessions are available** Are you having trouble controlling your drinking but feel like "rehab" isn't for you? Have loved ones in your life pleaded with you to stop? Is your alcohol or drug use causing relationship issues? Anxiety problems? I know exactly how your feeling. Alcohol or drug abuse can extremely difficult to manage on your own. For the last 19 years I’ve been helping clients navigate the personal recovery process and the trials and tribulations they come with it. If you are in a place in your life where you are ready to make some needed changes, I can help you be free from the grips of addiction.
(310) 526-8418 View (310) 526-8418
Photo of Amanda Ehrman, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCHt
Amanda Ehrman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCHt
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in supporting adults and adolescents experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, substance use, and trauma, through a holistic approach that is motivational, supportive, and empowering.
My therapeutic approach is strength-based, humanistic, and grounded in psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness, and CBT. I also incorporate clinical hypnotherapy and somatic awareness practices to help alleviate anxiety, overcome limiting beliefs, manage stress effectively, and chart a path forward toward healing, resilience, and personal transformation.
I specialize in supporting adults and adolescents experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, substance use, and trauma, through a holistic approach that is motivational, supportive, and empowering.
My therapeutic approach is strength-based, humanistic, and grounded in psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness, and CBT. I also incorporate clinical hypnotherapy and somatic awareness practices to help alleviate anxiety, overcome limiting beliefs, manage stress effectively, and chart a path forward toward healing, resilience, and personal transformation.
(424) 622-4987 View (424) 622-4987
Photo of Mackenzie Maurer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Mackenzie Maurer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
For the past 7 years, I have been providing individual and group therapy in a court program for individuals struggling with substance use disorders.
I am looking to work with clients who are living with mild to moderate anxiety, depression, or working through stress, life changes, or relationship issues. I am also very comfortable working with folks who are in recovery from substance use and have familiarity with 12-step programs.
For the past 7 years, I have been providing individual and group therapy in a court program for individuals struggling with substance use disorders.
I am looking to work with clients who are living with mild to moderate anxiety, depression, or working through stress, life changes, or relationship issues. I am also very comfortable working with folks who are in recovery from substance use and have familiarity with 12-step programs.
(510) 380-7944 View (510) 380-7944
Photo of Lauren Arborio - Connections in Recovery, Counselor
Connections in Recovery
Counselor
Serves Area
Since 2010, I have been providing concierge consultant for those suffering with mental health and substance use disorders.
Connections in Recovery is a consulting and referral company for those suffering from Mental Health and substance misuse disorders.. We do all the footwork for you by personally providing you with a treatment plan best suited for your needs. We are not affiliated with any treatment facilities or provider, do not have any contracts with any treatment providers, nor do we accept any referrals fees. We will connect you with the appropriate support team, treatment center, sober residency as well as outpatient and aftercare programs. We are there with you from the beginning to the end of your journey.
Since 2010, I have been providing concierge consultant for those suffering with mental health and substance use disorders.
Connections in Recovery is a consulting and referral company for those suffering from Mental Health and substance misuse disorders.. We do all the footwork for you by personally providing you with a treatment plan best suited for your needs. We are not affiliated with any treatment facilities or provider, do not have any contracts with any treatment providers, nor do we accept any referrals fees. We will connect you with the appropriate support team, treatment center, sober residency as well as outpatient and aftercare programs. We are there with you from the beginning to the end of your journey.
(310) 488-6196 View (310) 488-6196
Photo of Joshua Pickett, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCTS-I
Joshua Pickett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCTS-I
8 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work primarily with complex PTSD, substance use, attachment injuries, and family dynamics.
Hello! Welcome to therapy. I'm glad you made it. As a therapist, I believe that each one of us possesses a natural capacity for healing and towards our own authenticity. This belief governs my approach to therapy. I focus on the quality of the therapeutic relationship along with tending to the clients own inner wisdom. My work is fundamentally Trauma-Informed, Systemic, and Body oriented. I draw inspiration from Somatic therapies, IFS, Attachment Theory, and Psychodynamic theory. I also use Brainspotting and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy when appropriate. These methods can be used to create deep transformative healing.
I work primarily with complex PTSD, substance use, attachment injuries, and family dynamics.
Hello! Welcome to therapy. I'm glad you made it. As a therapist, I believe that each one of us possesses a natural capacity for healing and towards our own authenticity. This belief governs my approach to therapy. I focus on the quality of the therapeutic relationship along with tending to the clients own inner wisdom. My work is fundamentally Trauma-Informed, Systemic, and Body oriented. I draw inspiration from Somatic therapies, IFS, Attachment Theory, and Psychodynamic theory. I also use Brainspotting and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy when appropriate. These methods can be used to create deep transformative healing.
(562) 268-1334 View (562) 268-1334
Photo of Susan Abdel-Haq, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Susan Abdel-Haq
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I have extensive experience working in the field of recovery and substance use including working in both residential and outpatient settings.
You’ve likely been told you’re “too much” or “too sensitive”—when in truth, you carry deep insight, unprocessed emotion, and a nervous system shaped by pain. As a Palestinian therapist, I understand what it means to hold both personal and collective trauma. I help high-functioning, emotionally overwhelmed clients move through self-blame, rejection sensitivity, and perfectionism—so you can feel safe in your body, trust your voice, and finally breathe again.
I have extensive experience working in the field of recovery and substance use including working in both residential and outpatient settings.
You’ve likely been told you’re “too much” or “too sensitive”—when in truth, you carry deep insight, unprocessed emotion, and a nervous system shaped by pain. As a Palestinian therapist, I understand what it means to hold both personal and collective trauma. I help high-functioning, emotionally overwhelmed clients move through self-blame, rejection sensitivity, and perfectionism—so you can feel safe in your body, trust your voice, and finally breathe again.
(805) 243-1600 View (805) 243-1600
Photo of Trevor Schraufnagel, Psychologist, PhD
Trevor Schraufnagel
Psychologist, PhD
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Balance CBT is the name of my private practice. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY27841) and an expert in the assessment and treatment of anxiety disorders and related conditions. My primary focus is providing evidence-based or "known to work" treatments for anxiety-related problems. While I place very high value on research-driven treatments, I strongly believe that compassion, validation, and a powerful relationship are cornerstones to effective therapy. I am a member of the clinical faculty at UCLA and hold positions in the departments of psychiatry and psychology.
Balance CBT is the name of my private practice. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PSY27841) and an expert in the assessment and treatment of anxiety disorders and related conditions. My primary focus is providing evidence-based or "known to work" treatments for anxiety-related problems. While I place very high value on research-driven treatments, I strongly believe that compassion, validation, and a powerful relationship are cornerstones to effective therapy. I am a member of the clinical faculty at UCLA and hold positions in the departments of psychiatry and psychology.
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Photo of Sloane Hofer, Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT, APCC
Sloane Hofer
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT, APCC
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I work with clients navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use and eating disorders.
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. My name is Sloane, and I’m honored to walk alongside you as you explore what healing and freedom can look like for you. I approach therapy as a deeply collaborative, relational journey-one that honors your individuality, inner wisdom, and readiness to grow. My style is warm, attuned, and integrative. I tailor therapy to meet your unique needs, drawing from psychodynamic, somatic, trauma-informed, mindfulness approaches, as well as EMDR. I believe healing happens when mind, body, and soul are treated as interconnected and I hold awareness of the systemic forces that often impact our mental health.
I work with clients navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use and eating disorders.
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. My name is Sloane, and I’m honored to walk alongside you as you explore what healing and freedom can look like for you. I approach therapy as a deeply collaborative, relational journey-one that honors your individuality, inner wisdom, and readiness to grow. My style is warm, attuned, and integrative. I tailor therapy to meet your unique needs, drawing from psychodynamic, somatic, trauma-informed, mindfulness approaches, as well as EMDR. I believe healing happens when mind, body, and soul are treated as interconnected and I hold awareness of the systemic forces that often impact our mental health.
(424) 788-0885 View (424) 788-0885
Photo of Dan Sussman, Psychologist, PhD
Dan Sussman
Psychologist, PhD
Santa Monica, CA 90401
My specialties include treatment of depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, substance use, and supporting parents with children of all ages.
Welcome! I know that life can sometimes get messy and stressful. Maybe you’re feeling anxious or depressed, struggling with relationships, work, parenting, aging, a fast-changing world, or just want to talk to someone who’ll listen and be there for you. Change can be hard and humbling before you get to where you want to go. If you’d like to become a happier, more fulfilled you, please schedule a free consultation by going to my website, www.dansussmanphd.com, send me an email, or give me a call. I'm here to help.
My specialties include treatment of depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, substance use, and supporting parents with children of all ages.
Welcome! I know that life can sometimes get messy and stressful. Maybe you’re feeling anxious or depressed, struggling with relationships, work, parenting, aging, a fast-changing world, or just want to talk to someone who’ll listen and be there for you. Change can be hard and humbling before you get to where you want to go. If you’d like to become a happier, more fulfilled you, please schedule a free consultation by going to my website, www.dansussmanphd.com, send me an email, or give me a call. I'm here to help.
(310) 905-8775 View (310) 905-8775
Photo of Alexandra Venegas, Psychologist, PhD
Alexandra Venegas
Psychologist, PhD
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I have expertise in the assessment and treatment of substance use disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and disorders of emotion dysregulation, including borderline personality disorder.
I offer evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and mindfulness-based therapies. I also collaborate on research studies with the Trans Wellness Center in Los Angeles, where I serve as a study clinician.
I have expertise in the assessment and treatment of substance use disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and disorders of emotion dysregulation, including borderline personality disorder.
I offer evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and mindfulness-based therapies. I also collaborate on research studies with the Trans Wellness Center in Los Angeles, where I serve as a study clinician.
(424) 484-7438 View (424) 484-7438
Photo of Daniel Knox, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC I, SUDCC, MBA
Daniel Knox
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC I, SUDCC, MBA
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
As a certified substance use counselor, family systems coach, biofeedback practitioner, and interventionist, I work to destigmatize and heal trauma, depression, anxiety, and dysfunctional dynamics amongst people of all ages, genders and communities, non-judgmentally and with a sense of humor.
We just talk. And it helps. My role is in teaching skills to feel better right now, while simultaneously tackling past traumas, usually without the use of medication. I help manage withdrawal effects from drugs, alcohol, and prescription medication, including antidepressants, and offer EMDR and biofeedback for those symptoms as well as general anxiety.
As a certified substance use counselor, family systems coach, biofeedback practitioner, and interventionist, I work to destigmatize and heal trauma, depression, anxiety, and dysfunctional dynamics amongst people of all ages, genders and communities, non-judgmentally and with a sense of humor.
We just talk. And it helps. My role is in teaching skills to feel better right now, while simultaneously tackling past traumas, usually without the use of medication. I help manage withdrawal effects from drugs, alcohol, and prescription medication, including antidepressants, and offer EMDR and biofeedback for those symptoms as well as general anxiety.
(310) 890-6558 View (310) 890-6558
Photo of Anthony Santich, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Anthony Santich
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Is anxiety, depression, stress, or substance use interfering with your ability to live a meaningful life?
I have a passion for working with teens, adults, and families of diverse backgrounds including socioeconomic, cultural, abilities, and age. I enjoy supporting clients to achieve their identified goals using evidence-based approaches that are trauma-informed, strength-based, solution-focused, and consider the whole person.
Is anxiety, depression, stress, or substance use interfering with your ability to live a meaningful life?
I have a passion for working with teens, adults, and families of diverse backgrounds including socioeconomic, cultural, abilities, and age. I enjoy supporting clients to achieve their identified goals using evidence-based approaches that are trauma-informed, strength-based, solution-focused, and consider the whole person.
(424) 351-1083 View (424) 351-1083
Photo of Paul J Letendre, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Paul J Letendre
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Many of my patients are busy, hardworking professionals who carry a lot privately: relationship issues, unresolved grief, shame, substance use, perfectionism, imposter syndrome.
My approach is to adjust the therapy to fit the person rather than make the person fit the therapy. More than a listener, I am conversational, genuine and insightful. I know I am new to you and it will take time to feel like I am someone familiar who you can be messy around. By now I've heard and seen it all. If you want, I can go the distance with you.
Many of my patients are busy, hardworking professionals who carry a lot privately: relationship issues, unresolved grief, shame, substance use, perfectionism, imposter syndrome.
My approach is to adjust the therapy to fit the person rather than make the person fit the therapy. More than a listener, I am conversational, genuine and insightful. I know I am new to you and it will take time to feel like I am someone familiar who you can be messy around. By now I've heard and seen it all. If you want, I can go the distance with you.
(857) 384-4958 View (857) 384-4958
Photo of Laura Kay Mclauchlin, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Laura Kay Mclauchlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Is SUBSTANCE USE getting in your way, or you're needing extra support in RECOVERY?
My expertise lie in dealing with RECOVERY from ADDICTION as well as FAMILY members impacted by addiction. I take a cognitive behavioral approach to alleviating DEPRESSION and ANXIETY, and I know RELIEF is possible. I enjoy working with COUPLES, especially focusing on their communication patterns. I have worked with many clients in the LGBT community.
Is SUBSTANCE USE getting in your way, or you're needing extra support in RECOVERY?
My expertise lie in dealing with RECOVERY from ADDICTION as well as FAMILY members impacted by addiction. I take a cognitive behavioral approach to alleviating DEPRESSION and ANXIETY, and I know RELIEF is possible. I enjoy working with COUPLES, especially focusing on their communication patterns. I have worked with many clients in the LGBT community.
(310) 484-5715 View (310) 484-5715
Photo of Jon Mozenter, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jon Mozenter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Over my many years of practice I have collaborated with my clients to help them reach their goals - whether it is to improve relationships, work through addiction/ substance use issues, process trauma and grief, develop emotional resiliency, improve self-esteem and many other issues.
I employ an integrated mind-body and relationship-focused approach that is creative and nurturing. Mind-body therapy stresses the connection between psychological symptoms and the body through attention to breathing, relaxation, and imaging techniques. Relationship dynamics demand attention so that individuals can resolve conflicts and find necessary support
Over my many years of practice I have collaborated with my clients to help them reach their goals - whether it is to improve relationships, work through addiction/ substance use issues, process trauma and grief, develop emotional resiliency, improve self-esteem and many other issues.
I employ an integrated mind-body and relationship-focused approach that is creative and nurturing. Mind-body therapy stresses the connection between psychological symptoms and the body through attention to breathing, relaxation, and imaging techniques. Relationship dynamics demand attention so that individuals can resolve conflicts and find necessary support
(424) 383-7586 View (424) 383-7586
Photo of Golshid 'Goldie' Fadakar, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Golshid 'Goldie' Fadakar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I've had extensive experience working with eating disorders, trauma, substance use, depression, and anxiety.
Welcome! My passion lies in working with individuals desiring to achieve more independence for themselves, working through uncomfortable feelings, establishing better boundaries, improving relationships, and increasing self-esteem and self-worth. Ask yourself the following, what areas in your life are you avoiding? Where are you feeling stuck? It takes courage to seek help and desire to work through your issues. Through therapy, we can address how your struggles are impacting you. We will work on ways to help you feel safe, empowered, and to have the skills to manage stressors.
I've had extensive experience working with eating disorders, trauma, substance use, depression, and anxiety.
Welcome! My passion lies in working with individuals desiring to achieve more independence for themselves, working through uncomfortable feelings, establishing better boundaries, improving relationships, and increasing self-esteem and self-worth. Ask yourself the following, what areas in your life are you avoiding? Where are you feeling stuck? It takes courage to seek help and desire to work through your issues. Through therapy, we can address how your struggles are impacting you. We will work on ways to help you feel safe, empowered, and to have the skills to manage stressors.
(949) 229-1043 View (949) 229-1043
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Musselman, Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT, MA
Dr. Jennifer Musselman
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT, MA
6 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Substance use and addiction.
LIFE CAN BE TOUGH. Who has your back? Are you bored in your life or career? Do you feel alone and lonely, despite that you love your partner and your two adorable kids? Are you the last single one left in your group and are questioning if you will ever meet the love of your life? Do you feel misunderstood, not good enough, scared? Are you escaping your feelings with drugs and alcohol, elaborate vacations, shopping, work? What plays out in your personal life plays out in your work life, causing stress, depression and anxiety. I also executive coach CEOs and entrepreneurs, as well as being a team facilitator for corporate change
Substance use and addiction.
LIFE CAN BE TOUGH. Who has your back? Are you bored in your life or career? Do you feel alone and lonely, despite that you love your partner and your two adorable kids? Are you the last single one left in your group and are questioning if you will ever meet the love of your life? Do you feel misunderstood, not good enough, scared? Are you escaping your feelings with drugs and alcohol, elaborate vacations, shopping, work? What plays out in your personal life plays out in your work life, causing stress, depression and anxiety. I also executive coach CEOs and entrepreneurs, as well as being a team facilitator for corporate change
(310) 421-2985 View (310) 421-2985
Photo of Naveen Kassamali, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Naveen Kassamali
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who may be feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or stress, stuck in patterns of depression, or struggling with substance use as a way to cope.
I believe that creating a supportive and trusting environment is the best way to bring about change. I support clients through a solution focused approach, while using evidenced based orientations. I integrate positive psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, and mindfulness practices.
My ideal client is someone who may be feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or stress, stuck in patterns of depression, or struggling with substance use as a way to cope.
I believe that creating a supportive and trusting environment is the best way to bring about change. I support clients through a solution focused approach, while using evidenced based orientations. I integrate positive psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, and mindfulness practices.
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Photo of Robyn Blythe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Robyn Blythe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Santa Monica, CA 90403
I’ve also served as Clinical Director for substance use treatment at Cliffside Malibu, SOBA, & Ventura Recovery Center, providing supervision & training to psychotherapists.
As a therapist, I value and create a safe, nurturing, and empathic environment for individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues to relationship problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and addictions. I am trained & certified in EMDR, which helps a person to quickly move through recent and past trauma and successfully overcome symptoms related to PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder). We'll work together to help you find a healthy balance between body, mind, and emotions that allow for success in relationships and work, self-empowerment, and to live a life full of hope, meaning, and purpose.
I’ve also served as Clinical Director for substance use treatment at Cliffside Malibu, SOBA, & Ventura Recovery Center, providing supervision & training to psychotherapists.
As a therapist, I value and create a safe, nurturing, and empathic environment for individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues to relationship problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and addictions. I am trained & certified in EMDR, which helps a person to quickly move through recent and past trauma and successfully overcome symptoms related to PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder). We'll work together to help you find a healthy balance between body, mind, and emotions that allow for success in relationships and work, self-empowerment, and to live a life full of hope, meaning, and purpose.
(818) 203-0246 View (818) 203-0246
Photo of Fiona Nottingham, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Fiona Nottingham
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I bring a wealth of experience treating populations with substance use disorders, process addictions, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, mental health issues, and forensics for people interacting with the legal system.
My approach to treatment is collaborative with patients. I apply an integrative treatment approach, incorporating evidence-based practices, psychodynamic therapy, and attachment theory, neuroscience, and holistic therapeutic treatments.
I bring a wealth of experience treating populations with substance use disorders, process addictions, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, mental health issues, and forensics for people interacting with the legal system.
My approach to treatment is collaborative with patients. I apply an integrative treatment approach, incorporating evidence-based practices, psychodynamic therapy, and attachment theory, neuroscience, and holistic therapeutic treatments.
(657) 300-5174 View (657) 300-5174

See more therapy options for Santa Monica

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.