Alcohol Use Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA
I am an LCSW that has been in the field of counseling and social work since 1995. I am of the belief that everyone deserves help and support with dignity and respect. I specialize in addictions, gambling addiction, dual diagnosis, including trauma and PTSD, LGBTQ issues, grief and bereavement issues as well as have over 15 years experience in hospice and helping patients and their families cope with the patient's end of life journey. In addition I have expertise in group counseling for early recovery, families in recovery and grief support. I am also certified in EMDR and FLASH Technique.
I am an LCSW that has been in the field of counseling and social work since 1995. I am of the belief that everyone deserves help and support with dignity and respect. I specialize in addictions, gambling addiction, dual diagnosis, including trauma and PTSD, LGBTQ issues, grief and bereavement issues as well as have over 15 years experience in hospice and helping patients and their families cope with the patient's end of life journey. In addition I have expertise in group counseling for early recovery, families in recovery and grief support. I am also certified in EMDR and FLASH Technique.
A little bit about me - in 2019 I found sobriety from alcohol use disorder, and in 2020 I made a career change from being a professionally-trained orchestral musician and private music instructor to becoming a therapist.
While the bulk of my therapeutic experience lies in working with addiction, I am fluent in working with common mood disorders such as generalized anxiety, major depression, bipolar disorder, as well as trauma-related concerns. If I am unfamiliar with a particular issue, I always welcome a challenge and the opportunity to learn and grow as a therapist.
A little bit about me - in 2019 I found sobriety from alcohol use disorder, and in 2020 I made a career change from being a professionally-trained orchestral musician and private music instructor to becoming a therapist.
While the bulk of my therapeutic experience lies in working with addiction, I am fluent in working with common mood disorders such as generalized anxiety, major depression, bipolar disorder, as well as trauma-related concerns. If I am unfamiliar with a particular issue, I always welcome a challenge and the opportunity to learn and grow as a therapist.
I work with people whose lives have been affected by mental health challenges, stressful life circumstances, relationship problems, and alcohol and drug use. More broadly, I work with people seeking insight into their challenges, a greater sense of meaning and purpose, and greater self-compassion. I commonly help people living with posttraumatic stress, depression, anxiety, problematic anger, substance misuse, chronic pain, and those struggling with adjusting to a disability. In addition to working with the general public I have extensive experience helping military service members, veterans, and emergency responders.
I work with people whose lives have been affected by mental health challenges, stressful life circumstances, relationship problems, and alcohol and drug use. More broadly, I work with people seeking insight into their challenges, a greater sense of meaning and purpose, and greater self-compassion. I commonly help people living with posttraumatic stress, depression, anxiety, problematic anger, substance misuse, chronic pain, and those struggling with adjusting to a disability. In addition to working with the general public I have extensive experience helping military service members, veterans, and emergency responders.
Step by Step support offers both group and individual therapy so individuals may work out the underlying causes of their addiction problems in a comfortable and constructive environment. Individual therapy works to identify thoughts and behaviors that lead to substance abuse. Group therapy allows clients to work together on common experiences they share through their recovery and feedback with peer-to-peer input. Therapy includes: Family, Anger Management, and Interventions. We can also provide help with interventions, links to other resources in the recovery community, DUI assessments, and forensic assessments.
Step by Step support offers both group and individual therapy so individuals may work out the underlying causes of their addiction problems in a comfortable and constructive environment. Individual therapy works to identify thoughts and behaviors that lead to substance abuse. Group therapy allows clients to work together on common experiences they share through their recovery and feedback with peer-to-peer input. Therapy includes: Family, Anger Management, and Interventions. We can also provide help with interventions, links to other resources in the recovery community, DUI assessments, and forensic assessments.
Availability - late mornings/early afternoons - schedule consult on website link.
You might be feeling overwhelmed, burned out, or stuck in cycles with substances, relationships, or self-worth that no longer serve you. You want relief from constant stress and the weight of carrying more than others see. You crave a safe space to be real—without judgment or pressure—and hope to understand yourself better so you can finally make lasting change.
Availability - late mornings/early afternoons - schedule consult on website link.
You might be feeling overwhelmed, burned out, or stuck in cycles with substances, relationships, or self-worth that no longer serve you. You want relief from constant stress and the weight of carrying more than others see. You crave a safe space to be real—without judgment or pressure—and hope to understand yourself better so you can finally make lasting change.
The best thing about being a therapist is getting to meet so many different people and walk with them through their journey, being able to help them reach their own personal goals. I really enjoy working with individuals that have a desire to make lasting changes and take back control. We can lose ourselves in the chaos that we find ourselves surrounded by, and being able help others find solitude within that chaos is what I love about this profession.
The best thing about being a therapist is getting to meet so many different people and walk with them through their journey, being able to help them reach their own personal goals. I really enjoy working with individuals that have a desire to make lasting changes and take back control. We can lose ourselves in the chaos that we find ourselves surrounded by, and being able help others find solitude within that chaos is what I love about this profession.
Have a family member struggling with addiction? Our team of intervention professionals have decades of experience and are extremely proud Ascension's interventions having over a 96% success rate. We find the most appropriate treatment center for your loved one and will negotiate any out of pocket costs on your behalf to keep costs to a minimum. We don't just get your loved one into treatment; we work with the entire family system during the person of concern's inpatient stay so that the family can begin to heal and develop healthy boundaries. Call us today!
Have a family member struggling with addiction? Our team of intervention professionals have decades of experience and are extremely proud Ascension's interventions having over a 96% success rate. We find the most appropriate treatment center for your loved one and will negotiate any out of pocket costs on your behalf to keep costs to a minimum. We don't just get your loved one into treatment; we work with the entire family system during the person of concern's inpatient stay so that the family can begin to heal and develop healthy boundaries. Call us today!
Jeff is a Certified Recovery Specialist (also known as a Recovery Coach), with formal training in substance use disorder and recovery from Villanova University. After more than 25 years as a corporate executive—and with a recovery journey of his own—Jeff has chosen to dedicate this chapter of his life to supporting others impacted by alcohol and drug addiction. Having personally experienced the pain and challenges of addiction, Jeff is deeply committed to helping individuals build healthy, fulfilling, and sober lives.
Jeff is a Certified Recovery Specialist (also known as a Recovery Coach), with formal training in substance use disorder and recovery from Villanova University. After more than 25 years as a corporate executive—and with a recovery journey of his own—Jeff has chosen to dedicate this chapter of his life to supporting others impacted by alcohol and drug addiction. Having personally experienced the pain and challenges of addiction, Jeff is deeply committed to helping individuals build healthy, fulfilling, and sober lives.
Desmond Alexander Kane
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , NCC, CADC, CIP, CCTP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
“I just want a change that will work!” That’s a phrase that I have heard many times over my 10+ years in this field. If you desire real change and want help through this process I offer laughter filled, person-centered, evidence based therapy, interventions, and straight-forward feedback.
“I just want a change that will work!” That’s a phrase that I have heard many times over my 10+ years in this field. If you desire real change and want help through this process I offer laughter filled, person-centered, evidence based therapy, interventions, and straight-forward feedback.
Bannet is a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with individuals experiencing substance use concerns, addiction, anxiety, depression, mood irregularities, and co-occurring disorders. Her journey began as an undergraduate peer educator, where she had the privilege of teaching fellow students essential life skills. This early experience sparked a passion for both education and psychology, ultimately leading her to a fulfilling career in mental health counseling.
Bannet is a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with individuals experiencing substance use concerns, addiction, anxiety, depression, mood irregularities, and co-occurring disorders. Her journey began as an undergraduate peer educator, where she had the privilege of teaching fellow students essential life skills. This early experience sparked a passion for both education and psychology, ultimately leading her to a fulfilling career in mental health counseling.
Currently accepting new clients for both in-person and telehealth sessions! I am thankful to have spent the past 16+ years helping adults who are struggling with substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, stress, and trauma. I understand how important it is to feel accepted and I believe that the most important part of the therapeutic relationship centers on compassionate acceptance and understanding. This is why my primary goal is to create a safe and supportive space for you to feel free to be yourself as together we embark on your unique journey toward recovery.
Currently accepting new clients for both in-person and telehealth sessions! I am thankful to have spent the past 16+ years helping adults who are struggling with substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, stress, and trauma. I understand how important it is to feel accepted and I believe that the most important part of the therapeutic relationship centers on compassionate acceptance and understanding. This is why my primary goal is to create a safe and supportive space for you to feel free to be yourself as together we embark on your unique journey toward recovery.
My counseling service has been a good fit for professionals, entrepreneurs, students, teachers and administrators. In our first session together, we will talk about what you are seeking for counseling and how I can be of help to you. We'll talk about a brief history and how your problems have come about. We'll also discuss your areas of strengths, challenges and goals for our future sessions. I view counseling as a process of learning, wellness, growth and change. Due to my Asian Indian background, aside from English, I also speak Hindi, Telugu and Tamil. I also work well with immigrant, LGBTQ, minority communities.
My counseling service has been a good fit for professionals, entrepreneurs, students, teachers and administrators. In our first session together, we will talk about what you are seeking for counseling and how I can be of help to you. We'll talk about a brief history and how your problems have come about. We'll also discuss your areas of strengths, challenges and goals for our future sessions. I view counseling as a process of learning, wellness, growth and change. Due to my Asian Indian background, aside from English, I also speak Hindi, Telugu and Tamil. I also work well with immigrant, LGBTQ, minority communities.
There are two major factors with making therapy beneficial - one is the you, the client, and by looking for a therapist, you're taking a big step! The second is the therapeutic relationship, which is strengthened over time. By allowing me to sit with you, help you process what's happening in your life, and trying different coping strategies, we're strengthening that therapeutic relationship, which makes therapy effective. I'm open to feedback and new ideas to find something that's effective for you.
There are two major factors with making therapy beneficial - one is the you, the client, and by looking for a therapist, you're taking a big step! The second is the therapeutic relationship, which is strengthened over time. By allowing me to sit with you, help you process what's happening in your life, and trying different coping strategies, we're strengthening that therapeutic relationship, which makes therapy effective. I'm open to feedback and new ideas to find something that's effective for you.
You’re exhausted from carrying weight you can’t quite name but could include past experiences, anxiety, or life changes leaving you feeling disconnected. You want a life that feels present and grounded, with healthier relationships, quieter anxiety, and the freedom to pursue what you deserve. I help adults across Pennsylvania move through trauma, chronic stress, emotional pain, and substance use toward the life they’re working toward.
You’re exhausted from carrying weight you can’t quite name but could include past experiences, anxiety, or life changes leaving you feeling disconnected. You want a life that feels present and grounded, with healthier relationships, quieter anxiety, and the freedom to pursue what you deserve. I help adults across Pennsylvania move through trauma, chronic stress, emotional pain, and substance use toward the life they’re working toward.
Therapy is a profoundly human endeavor that allows us to untangle the past and live more fully in the present, enabling us to alter the trajectory of our futures. Hello, I'm Em! I consider it an honor to help others forge ahead in the face of life’s challenges and sufferings. My approach is warm, conversational, and non-pathologizing. I show up to sessions with humility and flexibility, collaborating with you to personalize treatment. Though therapy can be a heavy undertaking, I believe in the infusion of humor (and even fun!) into the process.
Therapy is a profoundly human endeavor that allows us to untangle the past and live more fully in the present, enabling us to alter the trajectory of our futures. Hello, I'm Em! I consider it an honor to help others forge ahead in the face of life’s challenges and sufferings. My approach is warm, conversational, and non-pathologizing. I show up to sessions with humility and flexibility, collaborating with you to personalize treatment. Though therapy can be a heavy undertaking, I believe in the infusion of humor (and even fun!) into the process.
Bonnie Ricard is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania and certified by the National Board of Counseling. Her undergraduate work was completed at Kent State University and she received her Masters in Counseling from the University of Pittsburgh. She has more than two decades of experience in the counseling profession with a focus on relational issues, life transitions, emotional distress, grief, crises and trauma. She has also done significant work in the field of substance use and its far reaching implications on individuals and families.
Bonnie Ricard is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania and certified by the National Board of Counseling. Her undergraduate work was completed at Kent State University and she received her Masters in Counseling from the University of Pittsburgh. She has more than two decades of experience in the counseling profession with a focus on relational issues, life transitions, emotional distress, grief, crises and trauma. She has also done significant work in the field of substance use and its far reaching implications on individuals and families.
Here's something I believe down to my bones: you are a whole person. Not a project. Not a work in progress that only counts once you've fixed enough of yourself. A whole person, right now, exactly as you are. And yet, so many people walk through life genuinely unsure of that. Putting everyone else's needs first, not because they want to, but because somewhere along the way they learned that their needs were less important. Shrinking, apologizing, second-guessing, performing a version of themselves that feels safer than the real one.
Here's something I believe down to my bones: you are a whole person. Not a project. Not a work in progress that only counts once you've fixed enough of yourself. A whole person, right now, exactly as you are. And yet, so many people walk through life genuinely unsure of that. Putting everyone else's needs first, not because they want to, but because somewhere along the way they learned that their needs were less important. Shrinking, apologizing, second-guessing, performing a version of themselves that feels safer than the real one.
Accepting New Clients! Many people struggle to understand where they fit into this world and even in their own lives. Stress, anxiety, and daily pressures cause us to lose sight of our purpose which often leads to stagnation and unhealthy ways of coping. Are you feeling stuck in a job that is unfulfilling? In a relationship that you know is unhealthy? Maybe you have turned to substances to cope? Let's work together to figure out where you may have lost sight of what is important to you or what is standing in your way.
Accepting New Clients! Many people struggle to understand where they fit into this world and even in their own lives. Stress, anxiety, and daily pressures cause us to lose sight of our purpose which often leads to stagnation and unhealthy ways of coping. Are you feeling stuck in a job that is unfulfilling? In a relationship that you know is unhealthy? Maybe you have turned to substances to cope? Let's work together to figure out where you may have lost sight of what is important to you or what is standing in your way.
Are you facing times of change and loss, searching for personal meaning? Sometimes answers that used to fit don’t make sense anymore. Often, the things we do to push away life's pain hurt us as much as the feelings themselves. I believe every experience is an opportunity for growth, if we allow ourselves to experience it fully and learn from it. I believe the more authentically ourselves we are, the more we are able to find joy in life. Maybe together we can face those feelings, and move through them to the other side.
Are you facing times of change and loss, searching for personal meaning? Sometimes answers that used to fit don’t make sense anymore. Often, the things we do to push away life's pain hurt us as much as the feelings themselves. I believe every experience is an opportunity for growth, if we allow ourselves to experience it fully and learn from it. I believe the more authentically ourselves we are, the more we are able to find joy in life. Maybe together we can face those feelings, and move through them to the other side.
Many come to therapy to change patterns of relating to others and themselves that they feel no longer serve them. I believe that these patterns, hard as they may be now, likely played some important role for you in the past. Perhaps addictions, habits, or defenses met otherwise unmet needs in your life, but now have become limiting and compulsive. I see myself as your partner in a process of deep listening to facilitate growth, healing, and new possibilities for relating to self and others. Specialties and modalities include: Clinical Hypnosis, gender therapy, trauma, addictions. Also see my group therapy option.
Many come to therapy to change patterns of relating to others and themselves that they feel no longer serve them. I believe that these patterns, hard as they may be now, likely played some important role for you in the past. Perhaps addictions, habits, or defenses met otherwise unmet needs in your life, but now have become limiting and compulsive. I see myself as your partner in a process of deep listening to facilitate growth, healing, and new possibilities for relating to self and others. Specialties and modalities include: Clinical Hypnosis, gender therapy, trauma, addictions. Also see my group therapy option.
See more therapy options for Pittsburgh
Nearby Alcohol Use Therapists Searches for Pittsburgh
- Allison Park
- Aspinwall
- Bethel Park
- Carnegie
- Fox Chapel
- McKees Rocks
- Mount Lebanon
- Oakmont
- Penn Hills
- Shadyside
- Squirrel Hill
- Upper Saint Clair
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.