Photo of Oscar Valdez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, 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 Dr. Aaron Smith, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Aaron Smith
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
In order to assist clients in working toward their optimal self, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and specializes in the treatment of anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, and interpersonal difficulties.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in providing psychotherapy to adults and their families. I have provided treatment and conducted evaluations for individuals in clinical settings from private practices, to hospitals, to community health centers. I have a true passion for working with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds and values cultural awareness in a therapeutic setting. I empower individuals to enhance their lives through the application of evidence-based therapeutic models and relational support.
In order to assist clients in working toward their optimal self, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and specializes in the treatment of anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, and interpersonal difficulties.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in providing psychotherapy to adults and their families. I have provided treatment and conducted evaluations for individuals in clinical settings from private practices, to hospitals, to community health centers. I have a true passion for working with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds and values cultural awareness in a therapeutic setting. I empower individuals to enhance their lives through the application of evidence-based therapeutic models and relational support.
(424) 477-3608 View (424) 477-3608
Photo of Jaime Ramirez (He Him His), Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jaime Ramirez (He Him His)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90031
I work with people who felt stuck while experiencing a challenging moment in life, such as the end of a relationship, job, or living arrangement, personal, generational, and professional changes, gender issues, sexual identity, gender transition, shifts in the relationship with substance use and irresistible urges and behaviors.
As a post modern thinker, I believe that each person has the skills and strengths to create an affirmative narrative, that is not based on negative self-talk or unproductive messages. I like holding conversations that will spark curiosity and explore opportunities to author your new stories.
I work with people who felt stuck while experiencing a challenging moment in life, such as the end of a relationship, job, or living arrangement, personal, generational, and professional changes, gender issues, sexual identity, gender transition, shifts in the relationship with substance use and irresistible urges and behaviors.
As a post modern thinker, I believe that each person has the skills and strengths to create an affirmative narrative, that is not based on negative self-talk or unproductive messages. I like holding conversations that will spark curiosity and explore opportunities to author your new stories.
(310) 431-9965 View (310) 431-9965
Photo of Andy Dean, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Andy Dean
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP-CN
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I assess various conditions including ADHD, traumatic brain injury, memory problems/ dementia, substance use and personality disorders.
Do you suspect that you have ADHD? Do you or a loved one have problems with memory or thinking as a result of an injury or medical condition? I conduct psychological and neuropsychological evaluations to investigate these issues. I am a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist (ABPP-CN) who has been conducting neuropsychological evaluations for over 15 years. The purpose of the evaluation is to provide proper diagnosis and individually-tailored treatment recommendations.
I assess various conditions including ADHD, traumatic brain injury, memory problems/ dementia, substance use and personality disorders.
Do you suspect that you have ADHD? Do you or a loved one have problems with memory or thinking as a result of an injury or medical condition? I conduct psychological and neuropsychological evaluations to investigate these issues. I am a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist (ABPP-CN) who has been conducting neuropsychological evaluations for over 15 years. The purpose of the evaluation is to provide proper diagnosis and individually-tailored treatment recommendations.
(424) 232-0717 View (424) 232-0717
Photo of Alex Ramirez, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Alex Ramirez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90001  (Online Only)
At this time I am only accepting clients that ok with online (Telehealth) therapy. My clients describe my sessions as peaceful, a place they can share and a place which promotes greater balance and happiness to their life. As a relationship expert, my approach is holistic, proactive and solution focused. It is designed to gain insight and empower you to take actions towards your life decisions. Those dealing with Anxiety, Trauma and/or Stress, we can work together to map the necessary coping skills to create a balance. Veterans welcome! Accepting Out of Network Insurance
At this time I am only accepting clients that ok with online (Telehealth) therapy. My clients describe my sessions as peaceful, a place they can share and a place which promotes greater balance and happiness to their life. As a relationship expert, my approach is holistic, proactive and solution focused. It is designed to gain insight and empower you to take actions towards your life decisions. Those dealing with Anxiety, Trauma and/or Stress, we can work together to map the necessary coping skills to create a balance. Veterans welcome! Accepting Out of Network Insurance
(949) 536-9401 View (949) 536-9401
Photo of Joshua Pickett, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Joshua Pickett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90035
Welcome to therapy, I'm glad you made it! I am deeply passionate about helping people address the root causes of their issues, heal from past trauma, and develop their true sense of Self. I believe each of us has an innate capacity to heal and with curiosity, grace, and support our greatest potential can be unlocked. I use a combination of Behavioral, Somatic, and Psychodynamic approaches to therapy that aim to guide the individual toward the root of their conflicts, resolve them, and bring more grace and kindness into living. I also work with Couples and Families looking to address long standing conflicts.
Welcome to therapy, I'm glad you made it! I am deeply passionate about helping people address the root causes of their issues, heal from past trauma, and develop their true sense of Self. I believe each of us has an innate capacity to heal and with curiosity, grace, and support our greatest potential can be unlocked. I use a combination of Behavioral, Somatic, and Psychodynamic approaches to therapy that aim to guide the individual toward the root of their conflicts, resolve them, and bring more grace and kindness into living. I also work with Couples and Families looking to address long standing conflicts.
(562) 268-1334 View (562) 268-1334
Photo of Dana R. Anderson Psyd, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Dana R. Anderson Psyd
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90028
Dr. Dana Anderson is a renowned Forensic Psychologist, providing comprehensive psycho-legal evaluations within the court justice system. Guided by court orders and penal codes, she delivers precise assessments for specific legal queries. Her expert insights and recommendations assist in fair judicial decision-making. Whether privately retained or court-appointed, Dr. Anderson upholds professionalism and integrity in every case. Dr. Anderson specializes in clinical forensic psychological evaluations and provides annual contracts for law firms and government agencies.
Dr. Dana Anderson is a renowned Forensic Psychologist, providing comprehensive psycho-legal evaluations within the court justice system. Guided by court orders and penal codes, she delivers precise assessments for specific legal queries. Her expert insights and recommendations assist in fair judicial decision-making. Whether privately retained or court-appointed, Dr. Anderson upholds professionalism and integrity in every case. Dr. Anderson specializes in clinical forensic psychological evaluations and provides annual contracts for law firms and government agencies.
(530) 451-0679 View (530) 451-0679
Photo of Sergio Ocampo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Sergio Ocampo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, SEP, BEng, EMDR II
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90013
BOOK AN ONLINE SESSION TODAY! - Do LOVE and HAPPINESS elude you? Are you FEELING DOWN and blue or ON EDGE and irritable? Did something harmful, hurtful, or devastating happen long ago that still haunts and negatively influences you today? If you have the need to talk to someone in a safe, secure, confidential environment, I can help. Childhood experiences, traumatic events, and family issues often stay with us throughout our lives. These can affect our moods and views of the world and may show up as anxiety, depression and even PTSD symptoms – sleepless nights, constant worrying, and a sense of emptiness are not uncommon.
BOOK AN ONLINE SESSION TODAY! - Do LOVE and HAPPINESS elude you? Are you FEELING DOWN and blue or ON EDGE and irritable? Did something harmful, hurtful, or devastating happen long ago that still haunts and negatively influences you today? If you have the need to talk to someone in a safe, secure, confidential environment, I can help. Childhood experiences, traumatic events, and family issues often stay with us throughout our lives. These can affect our moods and views of the world and may show up as anxiety, depression and even PTSD symptoms – sleepless nights, constant worrying, and a sense of emptiness are not uncommon.
(626) 406-2385 View (626) 406-2385
Photo of Paragon Psychotherapy, Inc., Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Paragon Psychotherapy, Inc.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90020
Every therapeutic relationship and moment in session, is expressly unique. One that is devoted exclusively to you where memories of the past stream into thoughts of the future and all is said in a protected, confidential space. Whether you are dealing with relationship or trauma issues, or seeking treatment for various symptoms, the therapists at Paragon can help you to clarify underlying feelings reveal patterns - make the unconscious conscious. In doing so, therapy can enhance a person's sense of empowerment, enrich relationship experiences, illuminate the Self.
Every therapeutic relationship and moment in session, is expressly unique. One that is devoted exclusively to you where memories of the past stream into thoughts of the future and all is said in a protected, confidential space. Whether you are dealing with relationship or trauma issues, or seeking treatment for various symptoms, the therapists at Paragon can help you to clarify underlying feelings reveal patterns - make the unconscious conscious. In doing so, therapy can enhance a person's sense of empowerment, enrich relationship experiences, illuminate the Self.
(424) 288-7243 View (424) 288-7243
Photo of Dr. Albert Bonfil, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Albert Bonfil
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Are you grappling with anxiety, depression, OCD, or attention-related challenges? I’m a nationally recognized expert in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), the research-based treatment of choice for quickly and effectively treating depression, anxiety, and related problems. If you're in search of a personalized and collaborative therapeutic journey, I'm here to help you. My commitment as a psychologist is to understand your unique needs and collaborate with you to provide you with the most effective therapy science has to offer.
Are you grappling with anxiety, depression, OCD, or attention-related challenges? I’m a nationally recognized expert in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), the research-based treatment of choice for quickly and effectively treating depression, anxiety, and related problems. If you're in search of a personalized and collaborative therapeutic journey, I'm here to help you. My commitment as a psychologist is to understand your unique needs and collaborate with you to provide you with the most effective therapy science has to offer.
(424) 688-9247 x1 View (424) 688-9247 x1
Photo of Adrian O'Donnell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Adrian O'Donnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027  (Online Only)
Are you feeling blocked? Have you been trying to make changes but keep getting stuck? Do you wish your career would take off? Or that you would be happier in your relationships? Maybe depression, anxiety, or an addiction is getting in your way. My speciality is working with adults and adolescents that are wanting to create a fulfilling life by breaking through the barriers that are holding them back.
Are you feeling blocked? Have you been trying to make changes but keep getting stuck? Do you wish your career would take off? Or that you would be happier in your relationships? Maybe depression, anxiety, or an addiction is getting in your way. My speciality is working with adults and adolescents that are wanting to create a fulfilling life by breaking through the barriers that are holding them back.
(323) 530-1232 View (323) 530-1232
Photo of Bonnie Banafsheh Shayeg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Bonnie Banafsheh Shayeg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90049  (Online Only)
Hi there lovers. You want to feel understood and connected socially and personally. It's important for you to explore your raw self without guilt or shame, yet most of us don't have that luxury. The goal of therapy is self exploration and awareness, recognizing conditionings, traumas, and learned patterns keeping you looping. People feel most benefit from therapy when they are ready to put in work outside the session as much as in the session. I use humor, empathy and directness to give you a stable yet direct support system to help navigate your life towards satisfaction and feeling fulfilled.
Hi there lovers. You want to feel understood and connected socially and personally. It's important for you to explore your raw self without guilt or shame, yet most of us don't have that luxury. The goal of therapy is self exploration and awareness, recognizing conditionings, traumas, and learned patterns keeping you looping. People feel most benefit from therapy when they are ready to put in work outside the session as much as in the session. I use humor, empathy and directness to give you a stable yet direct support system to help navigate your life towards satisfaction and feeling fulfilled.
(424) 552-4598 View (424) 552-4598
Photo of Judy Mclaughlin-Ryan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Judy Mclaughlin-Ryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CEU, Teach, Retreat
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90024
I am in Private Practice, as a psychotherapist, in Westwood, California. Additionally, I teach Continuing Education Courses to Licensed Marriage, Family Therapists and Licensed Social Workers. In my Private Practice, I provide: Individual Psychotherapy, Group Psychotherapy, Couples Counseling, Family Counseling, and Marital Counseling. I also teach Continuing Education Courses. Groups for Post-Traumatic-Stress Disorder for men and women are available as per schedule. Attachment Regulation Theory is key.
I am in Private Practice, as a psychotherapist, in Westwood, California. Additionally, I teach Continuing Education Courses to Licensed Marriage, Family Therapists and Licensed Social Workers. In my Private Practice, I provide: Individual Psychotherapy, Group Psychotherapy, Couples Counseling, Family Counseling, and Marital Counseling. I also teach Continuing Education Courses. Groups for Post-Traumatic-Stress Disorder for men and women are available as per schedule. Attachment Regulation Theory is key.
(310) 692-9680 View (310) 692-9680
Photo of Octave - Los Angeles Clinic, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Octave - Los Angeles Clinic
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
Octave is a modern practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. With in-person and virtual clinics in California, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington D.C., we partner with you to develop personalized plans that can include individual, couples, and family therapy to best suit your needs. Grounded in science, our approach enables you to experience profound change that is just as measurable as it is meaningful. Learn more at www.findoctave.com
Octave is a modern practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. With in-person and virtual clinics in California, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington D.C., we partner with you to develop personalized plans that can include individual, couples, and family therapy to best suit your needs. Grounded in science, our approach enables you to experience profound change that is just as measurable as it is meaningful. Learn more at www.findoctave.com
(310) 905-6841 View (310) 905-6841
Photo of PCH Psychological Assessment Center, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
PCH Psychological Assessment Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066
The PCH Psychological Testing Clinic offers comprehensive and targeted assessments for psychiatric, psychological and neuropsychological issues, learning disabilities and ADHD or ADD. Each evaluation utilizes qualitative and quantitative testing to produce a thorough appraisal with recommendations for treatment and referrals. Assessments are individualized for each client based on a developmental and psychosocial history, medication history and medical and psychiatric histories. Testing focuses on the specific, relevant problems that need to be investigated, such as psychological problems, treatment resistance or failure, difficulties in school or work, cognitive processing issues, failure to launch and treatment dilemmas.
The PCH Psychological Testing Clinic offers comprehensive and targeted assessments for psychiatric, psychological and neuropsychological issues, learning disabilities and ADHD or ADD. Each evaluation utilizes qualitative and quantitative testing to produce a thorough appraisal with recommendations for treatment and referrals. Assessments are individualized for each client based on a developmental and psychosocial history, medication history and medical and psychiatric histories. Testing focuses on the specific, relevant problems that need to be investigated, such as psychological problems, treatment resistance or failure, difficulties in school or work, cognitive processing issues, failure to launch and treatment dilemmas.
(888) 675-7185 View (888) 675-7185
Photo of Ellen Basian Phd, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Ellen Basian Phd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Welcome! I help people who are motivated to better their lives by improving their capacity to deal with challenges, stressors, and symptoms in order to move in the direction of their dreams and aspirations. In addition to addressing general clinical out-patient issues related to Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Relationships, Self-Esteem, and Dual Diagnosis, I have a specialty practice in Health Psychology. I use an integrated treatment approach to facilitate mental and physical health in my work with individuals, couples, families, and groups. We venture forth by cultivating compassion, incorporating creativity, stimulating curiosity, and crafting courage.
Welcome! I help people who are motivated to better their lives by improving their capacity to deal with challenges, stressors, and symptoms in order to move in the direction of their dreams and aspirations. In addition to addressing general clinical out-patient issues related to Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Relationships, Self-Esteem, and Dual Diagnosis, I have a specialty practice in Health Psychology. I use an integrated treatment approach to facilitate mental and physical health in my work with individuals, couples, families, and groups. We venture forth by cultivating compassion, incorporating creativity, stimulating curiosity, and crafting courage.
(310) 928-9547 View (310) 928-9547
Photo of Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(424) 392-7767 View (424) 392-7767
Photo of Becky White, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Becky White
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066
I am the Founder and Director of Root to Rise Therapy, a boutique psychotherapy practice that provides couples therapy and individual counseling in a warm, accepting space. As a highly trained psychotherapist and relationship counselor located in the heart of Culver City, California, my passion is helping individuals, couples, and families to create relationships and lives that they love. I believe that healthy relationships start with you and that in order to serve the people that we love most, we first have to learn to take care of ourselves!
I am the Founder and Director of Root to Rise Therapy, a boutique psychotherapy practice that provides couples therapy and individual counseling in a warm, accepting space. As a highly trained psychotherapist and relationship counselor located in the heart of Culver City, California, my passion is helping individuals, couples, and families to create relationships and lives that they love. I believe that healthy relationships start with you and that in order to serve the people that we love most, we first have to learn to take care of ourselves!
(310) 627-2660 View (310) 627-2660
Photo of Ildiko Tabori-Corral, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Ildiko Tabori-Corral
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90049
I combine a unique and specialized form of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) based on Choice Theory with a Family Systems approach to treatment. I view maladaptive behavioral patterns as a result of inadequate or dysfunctional life choices. I assist my clients in recognizing these patterns of behavior and encourage them to draw realistic and practical solutions to the things that are hindering growth and happiness through the choices they make in life. I work collaboratively with my clients using a "here and now" problem-solving technique and develop a treatment plan that uses psychotherapy, exercise, nutrition, and social support networks.
I combine a unique and specialized form of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) based on Choice Theory with a Family Systems approach to treatment. I view maladaptive behavioral patterns as a result of inadequate or dysfunctional life choices. I assist my clients in recognizing these patterns of behavior and encourage them to draw realistic and practical solutions to the things that are hindering growth and happiness through the choices they make in life. I work collaboratively with my clients using a "here and now" problem-solving technique and develop a treatment plan that uses psychotherapy, exercise, nutrition, and social support networks.
(310) 341-7061 View (310) 341-7061
Photo of Raquel Ross, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Raquel Ross
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90004
I am not a typical therapist. I see myself as a co-author, witness, helpful ally, teammate, collaborator and useful resource. Rather than taking a role as an “expert” by making assumptions or interpretations about your life, I love to use skillful conversation and artful question-asking to help you get past obstacles and problems. You are here on this page because you have strength in you, you have desire in you and you have healing in you. You are the main character in your own life. Therapy can either help or hinder the development of this character as someone powerful, capable and whole.
I am not a typical therapist. I see myself as a co-author, witness, helpful ally, teammate, collaborator and useful resource. Rather than taking a role as an “expert” by making assumptions or interpretations about your life, I love to use skillful conversation and artful question-asking to help you get past obstacles and problems. You are here on this page because you have strength in you, you have desire in you and you have healing in you. You are the main character in your own life. Therapy can either help or hinder the development of this character as someone powerful, capable and whole.
(323) 613-2943 View (323) 613-2943

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.