Substance Use Therapists in Denver, CO

Photo of Lindsay Windels, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Lindsay Windels
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211
Feeling overwhelmed in your transition to parenthood or feeling concerned about your own or your loved one's substance use are my specialities, and I believe in you and your ability to recover.
Are you feeling depressed or anxious as you begin the transformative process of becoming a parent? Is this stage of parenthood leaving you feeling more overwhelmed than you anticipated feeling or more overwhelmed than you have ever felt before? Perhaps you or a loved one are using alcohol or drugs to cope with life's stressors and overwhelming moments and you have become increasingly concerned about the amount you or your loved one is using. You are now seeing different areas of your life impacted by your mood or by your substance abuse and are hoping to find more healthy ways to cope with all of the ups and downs of life.
Feeling overwhelmed in your transition to parenthood or feeling concerned about your own or your loved one's substance use are my specialities, and I believe in you and your ability to recover.
Are you feeling depressed or anxious as you begin the transformative process of becoming a parent? Is this stage of parenthood leaving you feeling more overwhelmed than you anticipated feeling or more overwhelmed than you have ever felt before? Perhaps you or a loved one are using alcohol or drugs to cope with life's stressors and overwhelming moments and you have become increasingly concerned about the amount you or your loved one is using. You are now seeing different areas of your life impacted by your mood or by your substance abuse and are hoping to find more healthy ways to cope with all of the ups and downs of life.
(720) 571-1795 View (720) 571-1795
Photo of Jordan Ferrari, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Denver, CO
Jordan Ferrari
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222  (Online Only)
Mind Warrior Therapy. I have a huge passion working with clients battling substance use and mental health concerns. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clientele from adolescents to adults. Individuals who often feel misunderstood in order to help improve self-esteem, explore the pacts of trauma, maneuver relationships, and move forward with less weight on their shoulders. My goal is to provide a space which promotes growth and brings the feeling you are not alone. I am joining you on your journey and not here to judge you.
Mind Warrior Therapy. I have a huge passion working with clients battling substance use and mental health concerns. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clientele from adolescents to adults. Individuals who often feel misunderstood in order to help improve self-esteem, explore the pacts of trauma, maneuver relationships, and move forward with less weight on their shoulders. My goal is to provide a space which promotes growth and brings the feeling you are not alone. I am joining you on your journey and not here to judge you.
(303) 500-8765 View (303) 500-8765
Photo of Steve Carleton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Steve Carleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206
My practice is primarily focused on people struggling with traumatic experiences and substance use. Over the last 14 years I have worked primarily with military veterans. My goal is to help clients process experiences, better understand stressors, and help identify effective ways to cope. In sessions, clients will find warmth, compassion, and a focus on what is most important to them.
My practice is primarily focused on people struggling with traumatic experiences and substance use. Over the last 14 years I have worked primarily with military veterans. My goal is to help clients process experiences, better understand stressors, and help identify effective ways to cope. In sessions, clients will find warmth, compassion, and a focus on what is most important to them.
(720) 782-5456 View (720) 782-5456
Photo of Marion Carilli, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Denver, CO
Marion Carilli
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate , MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210
As a specialist in trauma, substance use, and relationship issues, I believe that we can process your story in a way that creates lasting change.
Do you feel stuck and overwhelmed? Or all alone in your pain? I love working with women who are ready to heal, grow, and discover their authentic self. Trauma, substance use, and difficult relationships can leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves and others. Through our work together, we will transform your suffering into meaning, change, and growth. You can shift your old ways of relating to others into new and healthy connections. I really believe that you can build the life you have longed for.
As a specialist in trauma, substance use, and relationship issues, I believe that we can process your story in a way that creates lasting change.
Do you feel stuck and overwhelmed? Or all alone in your pain? I love working with women who are ready to heal, grow, and discover their authentic self. Trauma, substance use, and difficult relationships can leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves and others. Through our work together, we will transform your suffering into meaning, change, and growth. You can shift your old ways of relating to others into new and healthy connections. I really believe that you can build the life you have longed for.
(720) 463-7159 View (720) 463-7159
Photo of Melissa McCormick, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Melissa McCormick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80230
I am a licensed professional counselor, and I have significant experience with treating people with eating disorders, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
I recently moved to Denver from Orlando, Florida. I love hiking, painting, and my two cats, Tangerine and Gizmo! I am nonbinary (she/they pronouns) and queer. I am passionate about therapy and am here to help! I received both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees at University of Central Florida. I have worked in all levels of eating disorder treatment/care (inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient), and have worked with all levels of substance use disorder treatment. I volunteered for Orlando United Counseling (for those affected by the Pulse and Plaza shootings) for 3 years.
I am a licensed professional counselor, and I have significant experience with treating people with eating disorders, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
I recently moved to Denver from Orlando, Florida. I love hiking, painting, and my two cats, Tangerine and Gizmo! I am nonbinary (she/they pronouns) and queer. I am passionate about therapy and am here to help! I received both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees at University of Central Florida. I have worked in all levels of eating disorder treatment/care (inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient), and have worked with all levels of substance use disorder treatment. I volunteered for Orlando United Counseling (for those affected by the Pulse and Plaza shootings) for 3 years.
(720) 815-9644 View (720) 815-9644
Photo of Alison Millette, Clinical Social Work Candidate in Denver, CO
Alison Millette
Clinical Social Work Candidate, MSW, SWC, ADDC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80231
Waitlist for new clients
I am particularly passionate about supporting people living with substance use concerns, ADHD, PTSD, depression, and anxiety—as well as those who are part of the criminal justice system.
Finding yourself in destructive patterns and using unhelpful behaviors to cope can make you feel isolated and alone. Knowing you are different from others and wondering how to navigate everyday situations is exhausting and debilitating. Being neurodivergent in a world built for neurotypical people can lead to depression, anxiety, trauma, burnout, and substance use just to name a few. With the weight of everything all at once you can feel trapped and hopeless. No matter what you are struggling with, you deserve to be fiercely advocated for and supported in a way that honors your unique humanness.
I am particularly passionate about supporting people living with substance use concerns, ADHD, PTSD, depression, and anxiety—as well as those who are part of the criminal justice system.
Finding yourself in destructive patterns and using unhelpful behaviors to cope can make you feel isolated and alone. Knowing you are different from others and wondering how to navigate everyday situations is exhausting and debilitating. Being neurodivergent in a world built for neurotypical people can lead to depression, anxiety, trauma, burnout, and substance use just to name a few. With the weight of everything all at once you can feel trapped and hopeless. No matter what you are struggling with, you deserve to be fiercely advocated for and supported in a way that honors your unique humanness.
(720) 802-6913 View (720) 802-6913
Photo of Hannah Beer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Hannah Beer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211
Do you have everyday, ordinary life struggles that you think aren’t ‘big enough’ for therapy? Or maybe you find yourself dealing with more severe issues of anxiety, depression, postpartum, or substance use? Regardless of your starting point it’s okay to admit you can’t do it alone; we were made to be social creatures. As a licensed professional counselor, my goal is to empower you to be the expert of your own life while simultaneously journeying alongside you as we navigate finding solutions together.
Do you have everyday, ordinary life struggles that you think aren’t ‘big enough’ for therapy? Or maybe you find yourself dealing with more severe issues of anxiety, depression, postpartum, or substance use? Regardless of your starting point it’s okay to admit you can’t do it alone; we were made to be social creatures. As a licensed professional counselor, my goal is to empower you to be the expert of your own life while simultaneously journeying alongside you as we navigate finding solutions together.
(720) 438-4163 View (720) 438-4163
Photo of There Is Always Hope Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
There Is Always Hope Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed, exhausted, or even hopeless? Do you wonder if things will ever get better? Whether you are experiencing emotional struggles that you just can’t seem to get through, having problems in your relationships, struggling with past trauma, addiction or substance use, experiencing stressful life changes, or stuck repeating the same old unhealthy or destructive patterns and behaviors you just can’t seem to break free of, therapy can help. Seeking help for the first time can be a scary and overwhelming experience. It takes courage to be willing to reach out and open up to someone new.
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed, exhausted, or even hopeless? Do you wonder if things will ever get better? Whether you are experiencing emotional struggles that you just can’t seem to get through, having problems in your relationships, struggling with past trauma, addiction or substance use, experiencing stressful life changes, or stuck repeating the same old unhealthy or destructive patterns and behaviors you just can’t seem to break free of, therapy can help. Seeking help for the first time can be a scary and overwhelming experience. It takes courage to be willing to reach out and open up to someone new.
(720) 619-8778 View (720) 619-8778
Photo of Taylor Palen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Taylor Palen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80246  (Online Only)
I have over 10 years of experience as a social worker in communities impacted by mental health, chronic illness and substance use.
I believe you are a capable and whole person who may be stuck or struggling against the unrealistic expectations of our daily lives. I understand the importance of having someone who cares about you and can guide you through processing life’s greatest challenges. I offer a caring and affirming place for you to build on your unique strengths and honor your values to create greater wellbeing and healing. I enjoy collaborating with individuals ages teens through older adults to improve overall wellness for themselves and in their relationships.
I have over 10 years of experience as a social worker in communities impacted by mental health, chronic illness and substance use.
I believe you are a capable and whole person who may be stuck or struggling against the unrealistic expectations of our daily lives. I understand the importance of having someone who cares about you and can guide you through processing life’s greatest challenges. I offer a caring and affirming place for you to build on your unique strengths and honor your values to create greater wellbeing and healing. I enjoy collaborating with individuals ages teens through older adults to improve overall wellness for themselves and in their relationships.
(720) 707-1059 View (720) 707-1059
Photo of Genevieve Therese Henderson, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Denver, CO
Genevieve Therese Henderson
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
My approach to mental health is client-centered. My areas of focus are substance use and addiction, trauma, and retirement from sport. It is my priority to create a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. My goal is to work collaboratively to explore your concerns, identify strengths, and develop strategies for positive change. Choosing a mental health professional is a personal decision, and I am honored that you're considering me to be a part of your journey. I am available for in-person sessions in Denver, CO, and I offer virtual session across Colorado.
My approach to mental health is client-centered. My areas of focus are substance use and addiction, trauma, and retirement from sport. It is my priority to create a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. My goal is to work collaboratively to explore your concerns, identify strengths, and develop strategies for positive change. Choosing a mental health professional is a personal decision, and I am honored that you're considering me to be a part of your journey. I am available for in-person sessions in Denver, CO, and I offer virtual session across Colorado.
(720) 664-8223 View (720) 664-8223
Photo of June Branon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
June Branon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80207  (Online Only)
I offer individual therapy for women and parents who are looking to dive deeper into why their lives aren’t currently working for them. I enjoy working with people recovering from traumatic events, unhealthy or abusive relationships, or substance use disorders/addictions. I utilize Acceptance and Commitment therapy and EMDR frameworks and techniques to help you create a life more aligned with your values in a non-judgmental, warm and welcoming environment.
I offer individual therapy for women and parents who are looking to dive deeper into why their lives aren’t currently working for them. I enjoy working with people recovering from traumatic events, unhealthy or abusive relationships, or substance use disorders/addictions. I utilize Acceptance and Commitment therapy and EMDR frameworks and techniques to help you create a life more aligned with your values in a non-judgmental, warm and welcoming environment.
(720) 594-4052 View (720) 594-4052
Photo of Courtney Redman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Courtney Redman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80237  (Online Only)
My passion is working with couples to positively impact their relationship and find new ways of communicating with each other, and I have found that using Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy is an exceptional tool to address attachment in family systems. I have also been fortunate enough to expand my experience into addressing substance use and the impact that it can have on not only the individual, but the entire family. Regardless of who is part of the family system, my goal is to help you reach your goals.
My passion is working with couples to positively impact their relationship and find new ways of communicating with each other, and I have found that using Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy is an exceptional tool to address attachment in family systems. I have also been fortunate enough to expand my experience into addressing substance use and the impact that it can have on not only the individual, but the entire family. Regardless of who is part of the family system, my goal is to help you reach your goals.
(720) 640-7516 x4 View (720) 640-7516 x4
Photo of Rebecca Newell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Rebecca Newell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80246  (Online Only)
My five years of experience working with mental health and substance use concerns has taught me to be an authentic, non-judgmental counselor who offers a compassionate, thought-provoking environment.
We've heard people talk about how great therapy is, and no one really mentions how hard and uncomfortable it is. I want to help you have a realistic view of what to set. Together, we'll create a space where you don’t have to be afraid to share your life. I have helped others to heal from past painful experiences and to find deeper meaning in their lives. You create better habits, challenge unhelpful thoughts, and shift your perspective. You can expect kindness, authenticity, pop culture references, and maybe even a swear word or two. This effort is no small feat, and it requires an honest view of yourself.
My five years of experience working with mental health and substance use concerns has taught me to be an authentic, non-judgmental counselor who offers a compassionate, thought-provoking environment.
We've heard people talk about how great therapy is, and no one really mentions how hard and uncomfortable it is. I want to help you have a realistic view of what to set. Together, we'll create a space where you don’t have to be afraid to share your life. I have helped others to heal from past painful experiences and to find deeper meaning in their lives. You create better habits, challenge unhelpful thoughts, and shift your perspective. You can expect kindness, authenticity, pop culture references, and maybe even a swear word or two. This effort is no small feat, and it requires an honest view of yourself.
(720) 764-6511 View (720) 764-6511
Photo of Erica Vaiser, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Erica Vaiser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206  (Online Only)
I offer a free 30-minute virtual consultation - Anxiety has snuck up on you, and you're not quite sure how. In your day-to-day you've realized that you're overwhelmed, feeling nervous, second-guessing yourself, and wanting desperately to simply come up for some air. You're here because you want to feel happier and enjoy your life again - and together we can get you there! I'll work with you to ease sources of anxious thoughts and feelings, heal old wounds, and discover what makes you excited about life. I specialize in treating anxiety, low self-esteem, problematic attachment patterns, and substance use.
I offer a free 30-minute virtual consultation - Anxiety has snuck up on you, and you're not quite sure how. In your day-to-day you've realized that you're overwhelmed, feeling nervous, second-guessing yourself, and wanting desperately to simply come up for some air. You're here because you want to feel happier and enjoy your life again - and together we can get you there! I'll work with you to ease sources of anxious thoughts and feelings, heal old wounds, and discover what makes you excited about life. I specialize in treating anxiety, low self-esteem, problematic attachment patterns, and substance use.
(720) 776-2160 View (720) 776-2160
Photo of Savannah Guglielmo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Savannah Guglielmo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209  (Online Only)
No matter if you are struggling with problems related to substance use, stress management, relationships, grief and loss, mental health or trauma; I am willing to walk beside you each step of the way. My approach includes integration of mindfulness practice with interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to best address your specific needs. I have worked with a wide variety of individuals and believe strongly in the healing power of meditation and movement in conjunction with talk-therapy.
No matter if you are struggling with problems related to substance use, stress management, relationships, grief and loss, mental health or trauma; I am willing to walk beside you each step of the way. My approach includes integration of mindfulness practice with interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to best address your specific needs. I have worked with a wide variety of individuals and believe strongly in the healing power of meditation and movement in conjunction with talk-therapy.
(720) 575-2355 View (720) 575-2355
Photo of Nate Fierheller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Nate Fierheller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80224  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a result I have extensive experience with severe mood and personality disorders, substance use and family systems.
Finding the right support shouldn’t be so difficult. It can be really challenging just to identify all of the relevant factors in why we seek treatment. When we are ready to make change because something is not working, there is not always a simple answer or one intervention. Often we need to look from multiple perspectives and approach things in different ways to solve life’s complicated issues.
As a result I have extensive experience with severe mood and personality disorders, substance use and family systems.
Finding the right support shouldn’t be so difficult. It can be really challenging just to identify all of the relevant factors in why we seek treatment. When we are ready to make change because something is not working, there is not always a simple answer or one intervention. Often we need to look from multiple perspectives and approach things in different ways to solve life’s complicated issues.
(303) 529-3018 View (303) 529-3018
Photo of Brooke R Tangen Huus, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Denver, CO
Brooke R Tangen Huus
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LAC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210
Over the last 13 plus years I have specialized in treating clients struggling with substance use and trauma. I have spent the majority of my career working in treatment facilities that address substance use whether they were residential, extended care or outpatient and I enjoy working with those who report concerns related to their use of a substance(s) and report other "underlying concerns" such as a history of trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, etc. I've been trained in EMDR and spent several years working with young adults, women, and even professionals. Codependency and family work is also an area of expertise of mine.
Over the last 13 plus years I have specialized in treating clients struggling with substance use and trauma. I have spent the majority of my career working in treatment facilities that address substance use whether they were residential, extended care or outpatient and I enjoy working with those who report concerns related to their use of a substance(s) and report other "underlying concerns" such as a history of trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, etc. I've been trained in EMDR and spent several years working with young adults, women, and even professionals. Codependency and family work is also an area of expertise of mine.
(720) 571-4623 View (720) 571-4623
Photo of Sandstone Care Teen & Young Adult Treatment Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Sandstone Care Teen & Young Adult Treatment Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MD, LPC, LAC, CAC-III, CSAC-A
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
Sandstone Care provides substance use, addiction, and mental health treatment for young adults (ages 18 to 30) and adolescents (ages 13 to 18) including Residential Treatment, Day Treatment (PHP), Intensive Outpatient (IOP), and General Outpatient (OP) programming.
Sandstone Care provides substance use, addiction, and mental health treatment for young adults (ages 18 to 30) and adolescents (ages 13 to 18) including Residential Treatment, Day Treatment (PHP), Intensive Outpatient (IOP), and General Outpatient (OP) programming.
(303) 223-6423 View (303) 223-6423
Photo of Elaine A. Gordon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Elaine A. Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW, CADC, A-CBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
I am also a certified alcohol and drug counselor with experience treating substance use disorders.
I am a solution-focused therapist with a collaborative, non-judgemental, and client centered approach to treatment. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore their challenges and make progress towards creating healthy and satisfying lives. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and other empirically validated treatments such as prolonged exposure (PE) and ERP. I have experience working with diverse populations in a variety of settings providing treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, panic disorder, and social anxiety.
I am also a certified alcohol and drug counselor with experience treating substance use disorders.
I am a solution-focused therapist with a collaborative, non-judgemental, and client centered approach to treatment. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore their challenges and make progress towards creating healthy and satisfying lives. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and other empirically validated treatments such as prolonged exposure (PE) and ERP. I have experience working with diverse populations in a variety of settings providing treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, panic disorder, and social anxiety.
(773) 309-4294 View (773) 309-4294
Photo of Dr. Brett Bartruff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Dr. Brett Bartruff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209  (Online Only)
If you need an evaluation to help you determine mental health or substance use conditions, please reach out to me and let me help.
I am a proud LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapist and advocate. I aim to help clients discover and engage in a meaningful and purposeful life. The great thing about therapy and wellness is it is different for everyone and should be based on each unique individual. I focus on understanding people holistically, with particular attention on a person’s strengths, attachments, stressful/traumatic events, and cultural environment. I integrate aspects of cognitive therapy, psycho-dynamic principles, adaptive processing theory, and motivational interviewing as part of my therapeutic practice.
If you need an evaluation to help you determine mental health or substance use conditions, please reach out to me and let me help.
I am a proud LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapist and advocate. I aim to help clients discover and engage in a meaningful and purposeful life. The great thing about therapy and wellness is it is different for everyone and should be based on each unique individual. I focus on understanding people holistically, with particular attention on a person’s strengths, attachments, stressful/traumatic events, and cultural environment. I integrate aspects of cognitive therapy, psycho-dynamic principles, adaptive processing theory, and motivational interviewing as part of my therapeutic practice.
(385) 284-0423 View (385) 284-0423
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.