Substance Use Therapists in La Veta, CO

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Online Therapists

Photo of Elinah Mapfumo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in La Veta, CO
Elinah Mapfumo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
I am a trauma-focused therapist who strongly believes that the negative cognitions we have about ourselves start with the trauma we have experienced in the past. I provide psychotherapy and EMDR therapy to those looking to resolve issues related to trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, and emotional dysregulation. I believe for one to connect with others, one should connect with themselves internally. Through a healthy therapeutic alliance, I believe we can collaborate and work together to heal and gain coping strategies that will provide relief from symptoms of concern.
I am a trauma-focused therapist who strongly believes that the negative cognitions we have about ourselves start with the trauma we have experienced in the past. I provide psychotherapy and EMDR therapy to those looking to resolve issues related to trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, and emotional dysregulation. I believe for one to connect with others, one should connect with themselves internally. Through a healthy therapeutic alliance, I believe we can collaborate and work together to heal and gain coping strategies that will provide relief from symptoms of concern.
(719) 631-3826 View (719) 631-3826
Photo of Nexus Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in La Veta, CO
Nexus Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate , MS, LPCC, AAT
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80911
I am proficient and experienced in substance use and addiction counseling, and draw from DBT, CBT, Gestalt, Adlerian and existential theories.
It can be daunting to start talking to someone let alone bare yourself and face your challenges. I’m someone who will come alongside you on your journey of recovery and healing. I see you as the expert of your own life. I’m merely here to collaborate with you, offer new perspectives and identify achievable solutions! I love helping my clients overcome and recover from addiction, SPMI, trauma, anxiety/stress, depression, relationship and identity issues. From adolescence through adult men and women, I focus on helping my clients successfully become who they want to be during our time together!
I am proficient and experienced in substance use and addiction counseling, and draw from DBT, CBT, Gestalt, Adlerian and existential theories.
It can be daunting to start talking to someone let alone bare yourself and face your challenges. I’m someone who will come alongside you on your journey of recovery and healing. I see you as the expert of your own life. I’m merely here to collaborate with you, offer new perspectives and identify achievable solutions! I love helping my clients overcome and recover from addiction, SPMI, trauma, anxiety/stress, depression, relationship and identity issues. From adolescence through adult men and women, I focus on helping my clients successfully become who they want to be during our time together!
(719) 624-4953 View (719) 624-4953
Photo of Dr. Cara Bussell, Psychologist in La Veta, CO
Dr. Cara Bussell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80904  (Online Only)
Such challenges may contribute to feelings of sadness, worrying, or substance use.
I am a PsyPact clinician and have immediate telehealth openings for clients who reside in the following states: AL, AZ, AR, CO, CNMI, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, and WY.
Such challenges may contribute to feelings of sadness, worrying, or substance use.
I am a PsyPact clinician and have immediate telehealth openings for clients who reside in the following states: AL, AZ, AR, CO, CNMI, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, and WY.
(719) 624-0347 View (719) 624-0347
Photo of Watercolor Recovery IOP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in La Veta, CO
Watercolor Recovery IOP
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Pueblo, CO 81003
Watercolor Recovery is an organization with one primary goal, to offer those suffering with the disease of substance use disorder a foundation and support network for a new life in recovery. The staff, treatment modality, facilities, and the recovery community are all integrated into the program to offer a greater opportunity for long-term recovery. Recovery is a lifelong process, Watercolor Recovery offers a safe and supportive environment where individuals can trust and move from an intellectual to feelings level. As acceptance of the disease, the willingness to change, and a spiritual relationship form from within oneself, the foundation for a new beginning is thus created. Watercolor Recovery- recovery is a beautiful mess!
Watercolor Recovery is an organization with one primary goal, to offer those suffering with the disease of substance use disorder a foundation and support network for a new life in recovery. The staff, treatment modality, facilities, and the recovery community are all integrated into the program to offer a greater opportunity for long-term recovery. Recovery is a lifelong process, Watercolor Recovery offers a safe and supportive environment where individuals can trust and move from an intellectual to feelings level. As acceptance of the disease, the willingness to change, and a spiritual relationship form from within oneself, the foundation for a new beginning is thus created. Watercolor Recovery- recovery is a beautiful mess!
(719) 417-9696 View (719) 417-9696
Photo of Larry Alwine, Licensed Professional Counselor in La Veta, CO
Larry Alwine
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80910
I have worked in most levels of care, from weekly therapy sessions to inpatient rehab for substance use disorders and hospitalization for suicidal thoughts and severe psychiatric distress.
If you reach out I will respond to you (call or email back). I prefer to utilize a relaxed, approachable style to facilitate easy conversation and connection. I change therapy modalities periodically to best match where you are at with your process. I can use humor to help cut tension and set a pace for conversation that doesn't get too overwhelming. I believe that good therapy is like searching for treasure underwater - we want to go down, sift through the sand and mud, look for buried treasure, and periodically take moments to come up for air. I'm happy to meet you where you're at in your journey and help you find your way.
I have worked in most levels of care, from weekly therapy sessions to inpatient rehab for substance use disorders and hospitalization for suicidal thoughts and severe psychiatric distress.
If you reach out I will respond to you (call or email back). I prefer to utilize a relaxed, approachable style to facilitate easy conversation and connection. I change therapy modalities periodically to best match where you are at with your process. I can use humor to help cut tension and set a pace for conversation that doesn't get too overwhelming. I believe that good therapy is like searching for treasure underwater - we want to go down, sift through the sand and mud, look for buried treasure, and periodically take moments to come up for air. I'm happy to meet you where you're at in your journey and help you find your way.
(719) 215-9295 View (719) 215-9295
Photo of Jennifer Medrano, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in La Veta, CO
Jennifer Medrano
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80916  (Online Only)
I have found that my passions lie in working with people struggling with substance use and marginalized groups.
Navigating through life can begin to feel daunting at times. You may struggle to say "no" to those around you. Being alone may feel frightening and being around others exhausting. You may drift through the days constantly pushing the little voice that says "I'm not okay" to the side, so your loved ones won't worry. You may feel you don't really belong anywhere. Sometimes the only option to cope with the emotions may be running away whether that's scrolling through social media or overindulging. You may want to feel better, but you don't know where to start. Reaching out is the first step towards healthy living and healing.
I have found that my passions lie in working with people struggling with substance use and marginalized groups.
Navigating through life can begin to feel daunting at times. You may struggle to say "no" to those around you. Being alone may feel frightening and being around others exhausting. You may drift through the days constantly pushing the little voice that says "I'm not okay" to the side, so your loved ones won't worry. You may feel you don't really belong anywhere. Sometimes the only option to cope with the emotions may be running away whether that's scrolling through social media or overindulging. You may want to feel better, but you don't know where to start. Reaching out is the first step towards healthy living and healing.
(719) 882-1542 View (719) 882-1542
Photo of Bright Space counseling, Clinical Social Work Candidate in La Veta, CO
Bright Space counseling
Clinical Social Work Candidate, DHS, MSW, SWC
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80906
I also offer support for immigration and legal matters through psychoevaluations, Substance Use Disorder Assessments, and mental health assessments.
My ideal client is seeking personal growth and self-discovery. They are driven to overcome challenges, gain clarity, and make positive changes in their life. They may be struggling with issues such as anxiety, low self-esteem, or difficulty managing relationships. Their primary goal is to attain emotional well-being, find meaning and purpose, and cultivate a fulfilling life. They are motivated to achieve these goals because they desire a sense of fulfillment, happiness, and a greater understanding of themselves and their place in the world.
I also offer support for immigration and legal matters through psychoevaluations, Substance Use Disorder Assessments, and mental health assessments.
My ideal client is seeking personal growth and self-discovery. They are driven to overcome challenges, gain clarity, and make positive changes in their life. They may be struggling with issues such as anxiety, low self-esteem, or difficulty managing relationships. Their primary goal is to attain emotional well-being, find meaning and purpose, and cultivate a fulfilling life. They are motivated to achieve these goals because they desire a sense of fulfillment, happiness, and a greater understanding of themselves and their place in the world.
(719) 215-8989 View (719) 215-8989
Photo of Core Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in La Veta, CO
Core Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80918
Many of my clients understand that they are struggling, yet are unsure what to do about it. Be it depression, anxiety, substance use, identity, trauma, or other such issues, it may seem overwhelming to address without guidance. Many have not engaged in counseling before or had a setback in their lives that they need assistance exploring. Many clients want freedom to be authentic in who they are, but have difficulty believing this is possible. We learn, together, that believing in and finding compassion for the self is an experience of being courageous and vulnerability is strength. We learn to own all of ourselves.
Many of my clients understand that they are struggling, yet are unsure what to do about it. Be it depression, anxiety, substance use, identity, trauma, or other such issues, it may seem overwhelming to address without guidance. Many have not engaged in counseling before or had a setback in their lives that they need assistance exploring. Many clients want freedom to be authentic in who they are, but have difficulty believing this is possible. We learn, together, that believing in and finding compassion for the self is an experience of being courageous and vulnerability is strength. We learn to own all of ourselves.
(719) 249-4828 View (719) 249-4828
Photo of Christina Allard, Licensed Professional Counselor in La Veta, CO
Christina Allard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80911  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in providing support to individuals navigating depression, anxiety, borderline personality, substance use disorders and relationship concerns.
Our shared aspiration is to find happiness and freedom from suffering. Life often leads us astray from our envisioned path, leaving us uncertain about what our ideal existence entails. At times, overpowering emotions like fear, anger, sadness, or shame dictate our actions and choices, causing us to lose sight of our authentic selves. Yet, within this pain lies the potential for profound transformation, as we discover awareness, insight, compassion and hope. Through the therapeutic process, we will embark on a journey to explore your unique experiences, unearth your truth, and initiate the healing of both past and present wounds.
I specialize in providing support to individuals navigating depression, anxiety, borderline personality, substance use disorders and relationship concerns.
Our shared aspiration is to find happiness and freedom from suffering. Life often leads us astray from our envisioned path, leaving us uncertain about what our ideal existence entails. At times, overpowering emotions like fear, anger, sadness, or shame dictate our actions and choices, causing us to lose sight of our authentic selves. Yet, within this pain lies the potential for profound transformation, as we discover awareness, insight, compassion and hope. Through the therapeutic process, we will embark on a journey to explore your unique experiences, unearth your truth, and initiate the healing of both past and present wounds.
(720) 605-7654 View (720) 605-7654
Photo of Ben Morse, Counselor in La Veta, CO
Ben Morse
Counselor, LPCC, EMDR, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
I work with adults and adolescents, LGBTQ+ folks (including poly/ENM and kink/BDSM), people dealing with life transitions, interpersonal issues, existential questions, substance use issues, process addictions (gambling, electronics, etc.
As your counselor, I am your partner in self-understanding and change. My role is to support and guide you toward an understanding of who you are and who you want to be. We work together as you determine the changes you would like to make, and create plans for making those changes real. The end goal is a closer alignment of your self-understanding, your lived experience, and your ideal self.
I work with adults and adolescents, LGBTQ+ folks (including poly/ENM and kink/BDSM), people dealing with life transitions, interpersonal issues, existential questions, substance use issues, process addictions (gambling, electronics, etc.
As your counselor, I am your partner in self-understanding and change. My role is to support and guide you toward an understanding of who you are and who you want to be. We work together as you determine the changes you would like to make, and create plans for making those changes real. The end goal is a closer alignment of your self-understanding, your lived experience, and your ideal self.
(719) 215-9121 View (719) 215-9121
Photo of Lauren McEvoy, Licensed Professional Counselor in La Veta, CO
Lauren McEvoy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Del Norte, CO 81132  (Online Only)
Do you ever find yourself feeling anxious for no particular reason? Or maybe you struggle to turn off worry and intrusive thoughts? Is trauma causing ongoing problems including depression, difficulty in relationships and maybe even substance use? I work with adults who struggle with the pain of anxiety, depression, trauma or substance use. I provide skills training to clients who wish to improve their emotional regulation, develop healthier boundaries, and connect with others in meaningful ways while improving self-worth. I believe that you as the client are the expert in your world and I respect everyone’s journey without judgment.
Do you ever find yourself feeling anxious for no particular reason? Or maybe you struggle to turn off worry and intrusive thoughts? Is trauma causing ongoing problems including depression, difficulty in relationships and maybe even substance use? I work with adults who struggle with the pain of anxiety, depression, trauma or substance use. I provide skills training to clients who wish to improve their emotional regulation, develop healthier boundaries, and connect with others in meaningful ways while improving self-worth. I believe that you as the client are the expert in your world and I respect everyone’s journey without judgment.
(719) 745-8599 View (719) 745-8599
Photo of Dr. Todd Lovelady Christian Counselor, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in La Veta, CO
Dr. Todd Lovelady Christian Counselor
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, CAS, CPFS
Verified Verified
Pueblo, CO 81003
In my mid-thirties I was losing everything I worked for due to substance use.
If you are looking for an experienced Therapist that also has a lot of life experience with mental health, and substance abuse issues, I can help you. Issues like Substance Abuse, Trauma, ADHD, OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Aspergers, and Autism. Treatment will be based on evidenced base ideals and filtered through a Biblical point of view. Science and the Bible can work hand in hand. Most problems come from being out of sync with the power of the universe. If you believe there is good and bad, we can help you find the good and build that up.
In my mid-thirties I was losing everything I worked for due to substance use.
If you are looking for an experienced Therapist that also has a lot of life experience with mental health, and substance abuse issues, I can help you. Issues like Substance Abuse, Trauma, ADHD, OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Aspergers, and Autism. Treatment will be based on evidenced base ideals and filtered through a Biblical point of view. Science and the Bible can work hand in hand. Most problems come from being out of sync with the power of the universe. If you believe there is good and bad, we can help you find the good and build that up.
(719) 849-2915 View (719) 849-2915
Photo of Mariana Lazarin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in La Veta, CO
Mariana Lazarin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80918  (Online Only)
I am grateful you are considering my services during this difficult time in your life. I work with teens and adults, and treat a variety of concerns. I will partner with you using a person-centered approach to help create the change you want in your life. I help you integrate tools that feel authentic to your needs using a multicultural, trauma-informed lens. work collaboratively with clients who are struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions including perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, parenting issues, stress management, relationship issues, attachment concerns, and substance use.
I am grateful you are considering my services during this difficult time in your life. I work with teens and adults, and treat a variety of concerns. I will partner with you using a person-centered approach to help create the change you want in your life. I help you integrate tools that feel authentic to your needs using a multicultural, trauma-informed lens. work collaboratively with clients who are struggling with feelings of anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions including perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, parenting issues, stress management, relationship issues, attachment concerns, and substance use.
(757) 210-5529 View (757) 210-5529
Photo of Alberto Castillo in La Veta, CO
Alberto Castillo
MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80923  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR and work with Trauma, Substance Use Disorder, LGBTQIA+, Mood Disorder, and more.
Do you find yourself searching for your “purpose” in life? Or do you feel that maybe you have lost who you once were? Let’s face it, life can be ugly at times. You may even find yourself in the middle of the chaos of this thing we call life. By providing space to express past traumas, confusing life circumstances, and more. I create a meaningful and tailored healing experience for each client. I believe that everyone possesses the tools to heal, but they may need help navigating the process.
I am trained in EMDR and work with Trauma, Substance Use Disorder, LGBTQIA+, Mood Disorder, and more.
Do you find yourself searching for your “purpose” in life? Or do you feel that maybe you have lost who you once were? Let’s face it, life can be ugly at times. You may even find yourself in the middle of the chaos of this thing we call life. By providing space to express past traumas, confusing life circumstances, and more. I create a meaningful and tailored healing experience for each client. I believe that everyone possesses the tools to heal, but they may need help navigating the process.
(719) 497-5636 View (719) 497-5636
Photo of Connor Scroggins, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in La Veta, CO
Connor Scroggins
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
Connor (he/him) has experience working with individuals in substance use recovery, inpatient and outpatient, as well as working with veterans and their family support systems. Connor is a compassionate and dedicated counselor with a unique approach that combines existential-humanistic principles with a feminist perspective. As a counselor, Connor strives to create a safe and nurturing space for individuals seeking personal growth, self-acceptance, and empowerment.
Connor (he/him) has experience working with individuals in substance use recovery, inpatient and outpatient, as well as working with veterans and their family support systems. Connor is a compassionate and dedicated counselor with a unique approach that combines existential-humanistic principles with a feminist perspective. As a counselor, Connor strives to create a safe and nurturing space for individuals seeking personal growth, self-acceptance, and empowerment.
(719) 215-9871 View (719) 215-9871
Photo of Bonna Machlan, Ph.D, LPC, CAS, Clinical Supervisor, Licensed Professional Counselor in La Veta, CO
Bonna Machlan, Ph.D, LPC, CAS, Clinical Supervisor
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CAS
Verified Verified
Colorado Springs, CO 80919
I have been working in the field of behavioral health for the past 16 years. I have a Ph.D. in Rehabilitation and extensive experience in providing therapy for adults with a variety of mental health and substance use disorders (i.e. trauma, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, anger management, marriage counseling).
I have been working in the field of behavioral health for the past 16 years. I have a Ph.D. in Rehabilitation and extensive experience in providing therapy for adults with a variety of mental health and substance use disorders (i.e. trauma, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, anger management, marriage counseling).
(719) 249-7053 View (719) 249-7053
Photo of Jonathan Schneider, LPC Intern in La Veta, CO
Jonathan Schneider
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
Pueblo, CO 81007  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with teens and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and substance use.
Anxiety and depression make us feel as if we are no longer in control of our lives. You're someone who has a hard work ethic and strong boundaries, but still find yourself at the mercy of your emotions. These moments have started to turn your world upside down, and it feels like you are the only one who sees something isn’t right. You’re ready to change, you’re ready to challenge these emotions, and most of all ready to take back control of your life. I am here to help you reach that goal.
I specialize in working with teens and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and substance use.
Anxiety and depression make us feel as if we are no longer in control of our lives. You're someone who has a hard work ethic and strong boundaries, but still find yourself at the mercy of your emotions. These moments have started to turn your world upside down, and it feels like you are the only one who sees something isn’t right. You’re ready to change, you’re ready to challenge these emotions, and most of all ready to take back control of your life. I am here to help you reach that goal.
(720) 707-2110 View (720) 707-2110
Photo of Miguel Angel Lopez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in La Veta, CO
Miguel Angel Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LAC, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fountain, CO 80817  (Online Only)
Every day, people go through hard times, breakups, divorces, grief, and the loss of a friend, animal, or loved one, the loss of a job, etc, and we all need help from an unbiased person for aid and support in these and other areas of concern. When it comes to Trauma, I believe it is an exciting part of life; one is not expecting it, and you barely understand it. Now you can deal with and overcome it in a healthy and professional way. Along with other mental health issues, I have experienced enough trauma, grief and loss, sadness, depression, and substance use to last a lifetime, from childhood mistakes to adult issues and I can help.
Every day, people go through hard times, breakups, divorces, grief, and the loss of a friend, animal, or loved one, the loss of a job, etc, and we all need help from an unbiased person for aid and support in these and other areas of concern. When it comes to Trauma, I believe it is an exciting part of life; one is not expecting it, and you barely understand it. Now you can deal with and overcome it in a healthy and professional way. Along with other mental health issues, I have experienced enough trauma, grief and loss, sadness, depression, and substance use to last a lifetime, from childhood mistakes to adult issues and I can help.
(719) 212-4840 View (719) 212-4840
Photo of Anna Duerst, LPC Intern in La Veta, CO
Anna Duerst
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
Anna (she/her) is working towards her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS). She is beginning her clinical internship journey and has experience working with adults impacted by trauma, mental health, incarceration, and substance use issues. She is also a Certified Addiction Technician and has worked within a residential treatment setting. Anna approaches counseling from a person-centered perspective and also uses attachment theory to help her clients understand their relationship patterns.
Anna (she/her) is working towards her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS). She is beginning her clinical internship journey and has experience working with adults impacted by trauma, mental health, incarceration, and substance use issues. She is also a Certified Addiction Technician and has worked within a residential treatment setting. Anna approaches counseling from a person-centered perspective and also uses attachment theory to help her clients understand their relationship patterns.
(719) 350-6791 View (719) 350-6791
Photo of Lori (Lorene) M Roper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in La Veta, CO
Lori (Lorene) M Roper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LEND
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Sometimes, we find ourselves buried under challenging life circumstances. When this happens, we are left with three options: remain stuck and undecided, fight through, wounded and bitter, or emerge stronger, wiser and more resilient. I love coming alongside clients who feel they are without hope, and helping them find their inner strengths to emerge resilient. I have experience working with trauma, grief, PTSD, pain management, postpartum depression, chronic medical conditions, OCD, substance use, ADHD, depression, anxiety, bi-polar, and marriage and family issues.
Sometimes, we find ourselves buried under challenging life circumstances. When this happens, we are left with three options: remain stuck and undecided, fight through, wounded and bitter, or emerge stronger, wiser and more resilient. I love coming alongside clients who feel they are without hope, and helping them find their inner strengths to emerge resilient. I have experience working with trauma, grief, PTSD, pain management, postpartum depression, chronic medical conditions, OCD, substance use, ADHD, depression, anxiety, bi-polar, and marriage and family issues.
(719) 417-4906 View (719) 417-4906
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.