Photo of Ira Helderman, Counselor in 37013, TN
Ira Helderman
Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Antioch, TN 37013
Together we will find the right path, and right set of practical tools, to help you overcome obstacles and become your best self. After over a decade-and-a-half working in mental health, I am skilled in the latest, evidence-based therapies available (e.g., Relational Mindfulness and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy). But no single approach works for all people at all times and, remaining flexible, we will create a safe therapeutic environment with the best combination of techniques that works for you. So many different psychotherapies exist today because there is no one approach that works at all times.
Together we will find the right path, and right set of practical tools, to help you overcome obstacles and become your best self. After over a decade-and-a-half working in mental health, I am skilled in the latest, evidence-based therapies available (e.g., Relational Mindfulness and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy). But no single approach works for all people at all times and, remaining flexible, we will create a safe therapeutic environment with the best combination of techniques that works for you. So many different psychotherapies exist today because there is no one approach that works at all times.
(615) 763-3960 View (615) 763-3960
Photo of Benjamin Holmes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 37013, TN
Benjamin Holmes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Antioch, TN 37013
"The best way to predict the future is to create it." That statement is at the heart of therapy. So often we are defined by what has happened to us and we get stuck living in a space filled with regret, heartache and frustration. You don't have to live in that space. Your current search for a therapist is a wonderfully bold and courageous step toward creating your future. The role of a therapist is to help you unlock your innate ability to heal, forgive, grow and prosper in the life you wish to build.
"The best way to predict the future is to create it." That statement is at the heart of therapy. So often we are defined by what has happened to us and we get stuck living in a space filled with regret, heartache and frustration. You don't have to live in that space. Your current search for a therapist is a wonderfully bold and courageous step toward creating your future. The role of a therapist is to help you unlock your innate ability to heal, forgive, grow and prosper in the life you wish to build.
(615) 265-1682 View (615) 265-1682

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.