Substance Use Therapists in Cardiff, CA

Photo of Connie Padera, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Connie Padera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cardiff, CA 92007  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with substance use or disordered eating habits? Or maybe you need some guidance on self-esteem or relationship issues? It's okay to not be okay, and I'm here to help you through whatever life has brought your way. I believe in treating each these issues from a whole person perspective, and will work with you to enrich all areas of your well-being. Through openhearted and compassionate communication, we will create a safe space for you to mindfully explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and identify which among them no longer serve you.
Are you struggling with substance use or disordered eating habits? Or maybe you need some guidance on self-esteem or relationship issues? It's okay to not be okay, and I'm here to help you through whatever life has brought your way. I believe in treating each these issues from a whole person perspective, and will work with you to enrich all areas of your well-being. Through openhearted and compassionate communication, we will create a safe space for you to mindfully explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and identify which among them no longer serve you.
(760) 456-2524 View (760) 456-2524
Photo of Jordan Carter-Suitor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordan Carter-Suitor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cardiff, CA 92007  (Online Only)
I work with teens, young adults, and adults facing mood disorders, life transitions, trauma, relationship issues, work life balance conflict, adjustment difficulties, grief, stress management, and self esteem issues. I have experience working in treatment settings addressing mood disorders, substance use, eating disorders, co-occurring disorders, and many other mental health issues. I love working with clients who want help and are open to change. I work in partnership with clients to work toward an overall sense of well being.
I work with teens, young adults, and adults facing mood disorders, life transitions, trauma, relationship issues, work life balance conflict, adjustment difficulties, grief, stress management, and self esteem issues. I have experience working in treatment settings addressing mood disorders, substance use, eating disorders, co-occurring disorders, and many other mental health issues. I love working with clients who want help and are open to change. I work in partnership with clients to work toward an overall sense of well being.
(442) 264-0847 View (442) 264-0847
Photo of Adrianne Faye, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adrianne Faye
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Cardiff, CA 92007  (Online Only)
Are you having trouble with your relationships, feeling stuck in your life, depressed, not having a purpose, feeling like you are suffering, or having problematic patterns you continue to repeat in your life? These are some of the issues that bring people to wanting psychotherapy. My style is warm, supportive, and interactive, with a focus on empathy, authenticity, and openness. I enjoy helping individuals, couples, teens, and young women who want to achieve a more satisfying, and productive life through learning new skills. I will be a constant witness to your growth, happiness and self realization.
Are you having trouble with your relationships, feeling stuck in your life, depressed, not having a purpose, feeling like you are suffering, or having problematic patterns you continue to repeat in your life? These are some of the issues that bring people to wanting psychotherapy. My style is warm, supportive, and interactive, with a focus on empathy, authenticity, and openness. I enjoy helping individuals, couples, teens, and young women who want to achieve a more satisfying, and productive life through learning new skills. I will be a constant witness to your growth, happiness and self realization.
(310) 736-6346 View (310) 736-6346

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Spenser Gabin, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Spenser Gabin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024
Anxiety and OCD are my specialties but I also have some training in alcohol and substance use issues, as I completed my practicum at Sharp McDonald Center, a residential substance use treatment facility.
The therapeutic relationship can be an invaluable opportunity to foster growth, take intelligent risks, and rewrite unhelpful narratives. Often the most important and difficult changes in life are internal. Moreover, the most critical changes can begin with the acceptance of a painful reality. Sometimes it is helpful to explore these realities with a supportive individual who has some distance from the situation. I find the most successful clients are curious about their own beliefs and feelings. While they want to be challenged, they also believe in the necessity of self-compassion.
Anxiety and OCD are my specialties but I also have some training in alcohol and substance use issues, as I completed my practicum at Sharp McDonald Center, a residential substance use treatment facility.
The therapeutic relationship can be an invaluable opportunity to foster growth, take intelligent risks, and rewrite unhelpful narratives. Often the most important and difficult changes in life are internal. Moreover, the most critical changes can begin with the acceptance of a painful reality. Sometimes it is helpful to explore these realities with a supportive individual who has some distance from the situation. I find the most successful clients are curious about their own beliefs and feelings. While they want to be challenged, they also believe in the necessity of self-compassion.
(760) 313-3294 View (760) 313-3294
Photo of David Serbin, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Serbin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Solana Beach, CA 92075  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with couples, substance use counseling, veterans issues, depression, and anxiety.
Are you feeling tired, depressed, anxious? Have you ever felt as though you were too depressed to even get out of bed? It’s easy for our negative thoughts to consume us. This is because our brains have a hardwired negativity bias that helped our ancestors survive. For this reason, we are left with brains that often focus on the negative, while minimizing the positive aspects of our lives. It can seem like our brains cut out the positive components of our being, like a deleted scene from a movie.
I have extensive experience working with couples, substance use counseling, veterans issues, depression, and anxiety.
Are you feeling tired, depressed, anxious? Have you ever felt as though you were too depressed to even get out of bed? It’s easy for our negative thoughts to consume us. This is because our brains have a hardwired negativity bias that helped our ancestors survive. For this reason, we are left with brains that often focus on the negative, while minimizing the positive aspects of our lives. It can seem like our brains cut out the positive components of our being, like a deleted scene from a movie.
(949) 919-7231 View (949) 919-7231
Photo of Jay Wick, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jay Wick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
I believe in treating the underlying issues that led to excessive substance use in the first place, and help to facilitate a change in which individuals, couples, or families can manage their distress in healthier ways.
I work with individuals, couples and families, ranging from middle school age upward. My primary focus, no matter the age or presenting problem, is to provide a nonjudgmental and unconditional space to process whatever difficulties you may be facing. I take a collaborative approach to sessions, meaning we work together each week to determine the best goals for your particular circumstance. I have an extensive background, both personal and professional, in the helping navigate the various challenges that come with substance abuse. I bring a level of understanding to the recovery process that can only be gained by having lived it.
I believe in treating the underlying issues that led to excessive substance use in the first place, and help to facilitate a change in which individuals, couples, or families can manage their distress in healthier ways.
I work with individuals, couples and families, ranging from middle school age upward. My primary focus, no matter the age or presenting problem, is to provide a nonjudgmental and unconditional space to process whatever difficulties you may be facing. I take a collaborative approach to sessions, meaning we work together each week to determine the best goals for your particular circumstance. I have an extensive background, both personal and professional, in the helping navigate the various challenges that come with substance abuse. I bring a level of understanding to the recovery process that can only be gained by having lived it.
(760) 227-7471 View (760) 227-7471
Photo of Michelle MacPherson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle MacPherson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075  (Online Only)
I treat substance use.
Hello! Many of my clients feel "stuck", like they're not Iiving their best life. I help my clients manage negative thoughts, provide clarity and support during transitional life and relationship issues, address self-sabotaging behaviors and increase coping skills. I provide a therapeutic space to help get you “unstuck”, enhance your motivation and navigate the stressors of life with improved overall functioning. Enhancing overall physical, mental and emotional health is the most rewarding aspect of my practice. and I rely heavily on the latest advances in behavioral science to provide the best therapeutic services available.
I treat substance use.
Hello! Many of my clients feel "stuck", like they're not Iiving their best life. I help my clients manage negative thoughts, provide clarity and support during transitional life and relationship issues, address self-sabotaging behaviors and increase coping skills. I provide a therapeutic space to help get you “unstuck”, enhance your motivation and navigate the stressors of life with improved overall functioning. Enhancing overall physical, mental and emotional health is the most rewarding aspect of my practice. and I rely heavily on the latest advances in behavioral science to provide the best therapeutic services available.
(657) 317-3830 View (657) 317-3830
Photo of Karolyn Johnson - Connected ~ Seen & Heard , MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Connected ~ Seen & Heard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Solana Beach, CA 92075
We have the expertise to support you through anxiety, depression, the parenting journey from preconception to child raising, understanding family dynamics, developmental trauma, and other trauma related issues such as substance use, relationship abuse, codependency, and attachment styles.
Connected - Seen & Heard is a unique space that honors the human need and desire to belong. We strive to offer the concept and experience of authentic connection through individual, family, couples, or group therapy, workshops. community events, retreats, and trainings. As an attachment-based group practice we believe that wounding happens in relationship, and therefore so does healing! The basis of connection is safety, trust, and vulnerability. It is in this safe space where we experience emotional healing and develop an understanding of self and of others.
We have the expertise to support you through anxiety, depression, the parenting journey from preconception to child raising, understanding family dynamics, developmental trauma, and other trauma related issues such as substance use, relationship abuse, codependency, and attachment styles.
Connected - Seen & Heard is a unique space that honors the human need and desire to belong. We strive to offer the concept and experience of authentic connection through individual, family, couples, or group therapy, workshops. community events, retreats, and trainings. As an attachment-based group practice we believe that wounding happens in relationship, and therefore so does healing! The basis of connection is safety, trust, and vulnerability. It is in this safe space where we experience emotional healing and develop an understanding of self and of others.
(619) 457-4105 View (619) 457-4105
Photo of Kellett Tighe - Kellett Tighe Therapy, MFA, MAP, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kellett Tighe Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFA, MAP, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Solana Beach, CA 92075  (Online Only)
I am here to support you in processing a wide range of issues, including but not limited to, HIV, substance use disorder and various patterns of addiction, intimate partner issues, trauma, both current and past involving families and work environments, depression, self-esteem, anxiety and relationship difficulties.
Are you experiencing relationship concerns, interpersonal challenges, or employment issues? Struggling with addiction, depression, self-esteem, anxiety, or the aftermath of trauma? As a therapist, I am here to support and guide you. I am empathetic, genuine, connected and collaborative. My role is to facilitate your understanding of what is preventing and blocking you from achieving your goals, harmony of mind and repose. Prior to becoming a therapist, I have worked for over 16 years in the entertainment industry. A process of introspection led me to discover my true passion lies in connecting with people.
I am here to support you in processing a wide range of issues, including but not limited to, HIV, substance use disorder and various patterns of addiction, intimate partner issues, trauma, both current and past involving families and work environments, depression, self-esteem, anxiety and relationship difficulties.
Are you experiencing relationship concerns, interpersonal challenges, or employment issues? Struggling with addiction, depression, self-esteem, anxiety, or the aftermath of trauma? As a therapist, I am here to support and guide you. I am empathetic, genuine, connected and collaborative. My role is to facilitate your understanding of what is preventing and blocking you from achieving your goals, harmony of mind and repose. Prior to becoming a therapist, I have worked for over 16 years in the entertainment industry. A process of introspection led me to discover my true passion lies in connecting with people.
(323) 673-2541 View (323) 673-2541
Photo of Kansas (James) Cafferty, LMFT, MAC, ICAP IV, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kansas (James) Cafferty
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MAC, ICAP IV
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024
Thanks for visiting me in this leg of your journey. I have worked in the fields of mental health and substance use disorders since 1997. I have worked all levels of care from acute hospitalization to weekly therapy. I have experience with adolescents, first responders, survivors of trauma, and those afflicted with varied addictions among other issues such as mood disorders and anxiety. I also provide independent substance use evaluations and expert witness testimony for family court cases. I am also approved by the NFL Players Assoc. to work with current and former players.
Thanks for visiting me in this leg of your journey. I have worked in the fields of mental health and substance use disorders since 1997. I have worked all levels of care from acute hospitalization to weekly therapy. I have experience with adolescents, first responders, survivors of trauma, and those afflicted with varied addictions among other issues such as mood disorders and anxiety. I also provide independent substance use evaluations and expert witness testimony for family court cases. I am also approved by the NFL Players Assoc. to work with current and former players.
(442) 200-1345 View (442) 200-1345
Photo of Daniel Westcott, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniel Westcott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
You may have experienced a disruption in your life causing unmanageable discomfort or perhaps you are seeking enjoyment and life satisfaction that has been missing for some time. While pain is an inevitable part of existence, suffering does not have to be. My role is to provide a nonjudgmental space to work through what challenges you. Anxiety and depression, relational or end of relationship issues, interpersonal conflict, substance use, teenage difficulties, social anxiety, lack of meaning or purpose, are my areas of most experience.
You may have experienced a disruption in your life causing unmanageable discomfort or perhaps you are seeking enjoyment and life satisfaction that has been missing for some time. While pain is an inevitable part of existence, suffering does not have to be. My role is to provide a nonjudgmental space to work through what challenges you. Anxiety and depression, relational or end of relationship issues, interpersonal conflict, substance use, teenage difficulties, social anxiety, lack of meaning or purpose, are my areas of most experience.
(760) 254-0891 View (760) 254-0891
Photo of Leo Martinez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leo Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience. I specialize in mental health wellness with a concentration on substance use and psychiatric disorders. As a faculty member for Gorski CENAPs I teach and share ways that I have used his model both with clients and personally as a person in long term recovery. Previously, I was a professor at California State University East Bay teaching Masters level students clinical theory and skills. My greatest honor though has been my service as a Marine where I learned leadership, the importance of camaraderie, and how to access resilience even when I felt defeated.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over a decade of experience. I specialize in mental health wellness with a concentration on substance use and psychiatric disorders. As a faculty member for Gorski CENAPs I teach and share ways that I have used his model both with clients and personally as a person in long term recovery. Previously, I was a professor at California State University East Bay teaching Masters level students clinical theory and skills. My greatest honor though has been my service as a Marine where I learned leadership, the importance of camaraderie, and how to access resilience even when I felt defeated.
(916) 404-2369 View (916) 404-2369
Photo of Jessica Belter, LCSW, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Belter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024
Using an eclectic mix of experiential, CBT, acceptance and commitment therapy, 12-step, and attachment theory, I seek to address problems related to; substance use, eating disorders, PTSD, depression, anxiety, codependency, love addiction and more.
I am licensed in CA, AZ and MN and can provide telehealth for each of those states. Who doesn't want freedom in all aspects of life? I believe that true freedom comes from transformation of self from the inside out. We are not on this planet to struggle, rather to find the courage to let our light shine. If you are feeling stuck in your relationships, career, family, or any other aspect of life perhaps it is time for a change. Life is short.
Using an eclectic mix of experiential, CBT, acceptance and commitment therapy, 12-step, and attachment theory, I seek to address problems related to; substance use, eating disorders, PTSD, depression, anxiety, codependency, love addiction and more.
I am licensed in CA, AZ and MN and can provide telehealth for each of those states. Who doesn't want freedom in all aspects of life? I believe that true freedom comes from transformation of self from the inside out. We are not on this planet to struggle, rather to find the courage to let our light shine. If you are feeling stuck in your relationships, career, family, or any other aspect of life perhaps it is time for a change. Life is short.
(612) 260-1593 View (612) 260-1593
Photo of Patti Rosenberg, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patti Rosenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075  (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 Simone Stear Zwipf, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Simone Stear Zwipf
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075  (Online Only)
My strength is working with clients to build self-esteem, reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms, process difficult experiences and trauma, help those with substance use disorders, and improve couple and family relationships.
My name is Simone Stear Zwipf and I am so excited to partner with you. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist as well as a licensed professional clinical counselor.
My strength is working with clients to build self-esteem, reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms, process difficult experiences and trauma, help those with substance use disorders, and improve couple and family relationships.
My name is Simone Stear Zwipf and I am so excited to partner with you. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist as well as a licensed professional clinical counselor.
(858) 758-7764 View (858) 758-7764
Photo of Kelsey Michael Bradshaw, PhD, Psychologist
Kelsey Michael Bradshaw
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
My specialties include evidence-based interventions, behavior management training, anxiety and mood disorders, trauma informed care, substance use disorders, and adjustments to life changes (e.
Greetings! I am a psychologist providing therapy and assessment services. My background is in treating youth, young adults, and families. I primarily utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with an emphasis on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). I offer virtual-based sessions but primarily work in the office. Assessment services (psychological testing, psychological evaluation) is also a major focus of mine. I specialize in assessment of autism, ADHD, and academics, as well as general psychodiagnostic assessment (clarifying diagnoses) in kids and adults (6 years and older).
My specialties include evidence-based interventions, behavior management training, anxiety and mood disorders, trauma informed care, substance use disorders, and adjustments to life changes (e.
Greetings! I am a psychologist providing therapy and assessment services. My background is in treating youth, young adults, and families. I primarily utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with an emphasis on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). I offer virtual-based sessions but primarily work in the office. Assessment services (psychological testing, psychological evaluation) is also a major focus of mine. I specialize in assessment of autism, ADHD, and academics, as well as general psychodiagnostic assessment (clarifying diagnoses) in kids and adults (6 years and older).
(760) 378-7474 View (760) 378-7474
Photo of Azmaira H Maker, PhD, Psychologist
Azmaira H Maker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Solana Beach, CA 92075
We specialize in depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, substance use, eating disorders, academic, behavioral, spectrum and developmental difficulties, ADHD, divorce, and health issues.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience providing services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. My team of expert clinicians provide evidence-based and compassionate therapies from a range of approaches, state-of-the art testing, in-school/in-home services, medical services, and neurofeedback. We offer multiple treatment options to reduce symptoms, cope with stressors, resolve conflicts, and restore your daily life to health and wellness. We strive to provide exceptional and holistic collaborative care to educate, support, and empower individuals and families.
We specialize in depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, substance use, eating disorders, academic, behavioral, spectrum and developmental difficulties, ADHD, divorce, and health issues.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience providing services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. My team of expert clinicians provide evidence-based and compassionate therapies from a range of approaches, state-of-the art testing, in-school/in-home services, medical services, and neurofeedback. We offer multiple treatment options to reduce symptoms, cope with stressors, resolve conflicts, and restore your daily life to health and wellness. We strive to provide exceptional and holistic collaborative care to educate, support, and empower individuals and families.
(858) 367-0931 View (858) 367-0931
Photo of Angela Klein, PhD, Psychologist
Angela Klein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92091
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the greater San Diego area. I specialize in treating disordered eating, self-harm, suicidality, and pervasive anxiety and mood disorders, as well as substance use, in adolescents, families, and adults. My book "Mindful Eating from the Dialectical Perspective: Research and Application" is available from Routledge and Amazon. I emphasize concrete behavioral strategies and validation to foster balance, self-awareness, and connection. Creating lasting change can seem daunting--and I can support you in this journey, with tools to help you take one step at a time, to ultimately achieve your goals.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the greater San Diego area. I specialize in treating disordered eating, self-harm, suicidality, and pervasive anxiety and mood disorders, as well as substance use, in adolescents, families, and adults. My book "Mindful Eating from the Dialectical Perspective: Research and Application" is available from Routledge and Amazon. I emphasize concrete behavioral strategies and validation to foster balance, self-awareness, and connection. Creating lasting change can seem daunting--and I can support you in this journey, with tools to help you take one step at a time, to ultimately achieve your goals.
(573) 202-6601 View (573) 202-6601
Photo of Bonnie Deroo, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bonnie Deroo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024
I am taking new clients, and I will return your call or message within 24h. I reserve a number of slots for clients who cannot afford my full fee, so please ask if these are available. I accept Original Medicare (not Medicare Advantage). If you struggle with anxiety or depression, or are worried about your alcohol or substance use to cope with these or other stresses in life, please contact me. In addition to these, I can help with a host of other life challenges as well. Are you a family member of someone with anxiety and/or substance use and aren't sure what to do? I can help. I offer individual, couples, and family counseling.
I am taking new clients, and I will return your call or message within 24h. I reserve a number of slots for clients who cannot afford my full fee, so please ask if these are available. I accept Original Medicare (not Medicare Advantage). If you struggle with anxiety or depression, or are worried about your alcohol or substance use to cope with these or other stresses in life, please contact me. In addition to these, I can help with a host of other life challenges as well. Are you a family member of someone with anxiety and/or substance use and aren't sure what to do? I can help. I offer individual, couples, and family counseling.
(858) 437-5425 View (858) 437-5425
Photo of Chad K Cox, PsyD, Psychologist
Chad K Cox
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024  (Online Only)
I have expertise in helping individuals, friends and families of those struggling with alcohol or substance use disorders.
Dr. Cox has a experience providing assistance to high performing professionals such as lawyers, doctors, executives, business owners and even other counselors. Courage is needed when facing a personal problem. My mission is to provide compassionate and professional assistance to those struggling with emotional, behavioral or relational problems. I work to provide a safe and supportive environment, free of judgement, where sensitive issues can be explored. You can get help for mood difficulties, drug/alcohol problems or relational concerns. To start, we can have a free consultation to discuss your goals for self-improvement.
I have expertise in helping individuals, friends and families of those struggling with alcohol or substance use disorders.
Dr. Cox has a experience providing assistance to high performing professionals such as lawyers, doctors, executives, business owners and even other counselors. Courage is needed when facing a personal problem. My mission is to provide compassionate and professional assistance to those struggling with emotional, behavioral or relational problems. I work to provide a safe and supportive environment, free of judgement, where sensitive issues can be explored. You can get help for mood difficulties, drug/alcohol problems or relational concerns. To start, we can have a free consultation to discuss your goals for self-improvement.
(619) 458-3380 View (619) 458-3380
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.