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Online Therapists

Photo of Tommy Thompson, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Paxton, IL
Tommy Thompson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, NCC, CADC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711
Additional trainings and expertise on substance use counseling, trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety.
Starting a new year can be an exciting and motivational time. Starting the journey of building a new you or changing your life to be more authentic. My counseling approach focuses on helping you better understand you, your life, to find clarity, and purpose. This can help you become more genuine and deepen your relationships with those you care most about. I see couples, families, and individuals with a keen interest in teenagers and those experiencing transitions in their life, especially with grief. I am accepting and welcoming of different spiritual views, gender, gender expression, sexualities, etc.
Additional trainings and expertise on substance use counseling, trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety.
Starting a new year can be an exciting and motivational time. Starting the journey of building a new you or changing your life to be more authentic. My counseling approach focuses on helping you better understand you, your life, to find clarity, and purpose. This can help you become more genuine and deepen your relationships with those you care most about. I see couples, families, and individuals with a keen interest in teenagers and those experiencing transitions in their life, especially with grief. I am accepting and welcoming of different spiritual views, gender, gender expression, sexualities, etc.
(217) 262-1276 View (217) 262-1276
Photo of Annie Novotny, Licensed Professional Counselor in Paxton, IL
Annie Novotny
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAATC, LCPC, ATR, EMDR
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643
I collaborate with participants to plan creative solutions and positive coping behaviors in order to address a wide variety of experiences, including: anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, self-esteem and self-worth, stress, symptoms related to post-traumatic stress, vicarious trauma, being in relationship with a trauma survivor, substance use/ abuse, self-care, and addressing negative coping behaviors. I have worked extensively with survivors of sexual violence, people who have experienced domestic violence, combat Veterans, and other survivors of complex trauma.
I collaborate with participants to plan creative solutions and positive coping behaviors in order to address a wide variety of experiences, including: anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, self-esteem and self-worth, stress, symptoms related to post-traumatic stress, vicarious trauma, being in relationship with a trauma survivor, substance use/ abuse, self-care, and addressing negative coping behaviors. I have worked extensively with survivors of sexual violence, people who have experienced domestic violence, combat Veterans, and other survivors of complex trauma.
(708) 572-3801 View (708) 572-3801
Photo of Carly Novoselsky, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Paxton, IL
Carly Novoselsky
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Making the decision to enter therapy is not an easy one. It demands courage, vulnerability, and a deep sense of self-awareness. I'm here to support you as you navigate life's challenges. I specialize in working with individuals and couples in the queer community, especially those who might be questioning their relationship with their sexuality, gender, or substance use. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships issues or trauma, I'm here to offer guidance and understanding without judgement.
Making the decision to enter therapy is not an easy one. It demands courage, vulnerability, and a deep sense of self-awareness. I'm here to support you as you navigate life's challenges. I specialize in working with individuals and couples in the queer community, especially those who might be questioning their relationship with their sexuality, gender, or substance use. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships issues or trauma, I'm here to offer guidance and understanding without judgement.
(630) 757-8986 View (630) 757-8986
Photo of BELA Recovery, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Paxton, IL
BELA Recovery
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, CAADC, LAC
Verified Verified
Mokena, IL 60448
I am a certified addiction counselor, licensed educator, licensed addiction counselor (LAC) in Colorado, and the Director of BELA Recovery, a nonprofit, Illinois-state-licensed addiction treatment Center. We specialize in adolescent and adult substance use prevention, early intervention and outpatient treatment services. We also provide DUI classes and counseling, domestic violence, anger management, and more. We also do community outreach and presentations for schools, community organizations and professional organizations on topics such as supporting students struggling with substance use, trauma, anxiety/depression and ADHD.
I am a certified addiction counselor, licensed educator, licensed addiction counselor (LAC) in Colorado, and the Director of BELA Recovery, a nonprofit, Illinois-state-licensed addiction treatment Center. We specialize in adolescent and adult substance use prevention, early intervention and outpatient treatment services. We also provide DUI classes and counseling, domestic violence, anger management, and more. We also do community outreach and presentations for schools, community organizations and professional organizations on topics such as supporting students struggling with substance use, trauma, anxiety/depression and ADHD.
(708) 794-6867 View (708) 794-6867
Photo of Suzanne M. Pinto, Psychologist in Paxton, IL
Suzanne M. Pinto
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555
Making the decision to change is often difficult as there is comfort in holding onto old ways of thinking or patterns of behavior even when they are ineffective and no longer serve us well. My goal is to help guide you through the change or healing process. My therapeutic approach is supportive and collaborative. I work with adults and older adolescents with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I also have significant experience working with individuals experiencing life transitions, relationship/marital issues, stress management or coping skill difficulties, grief and loss, abuse and trauma, and substance use disorders.
Making the decision to change is often difficult as there is comfort in holding onto old ways of thinking or patterns of behavior even when they are ineffective and no longer serve us well. My goal is to help guide you through the change or healing process. My therapeutic approach is supportive and collaborative. I work with adults and older adolescents with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I also have significant experience working with individuals experiencing life transitions, relationship/marital issues, stress management or coping skill difficulties, grief and loss, abuse and trauma, and substance use disorders.
(630) 791-5338 View (630) 791-5338
Photo of Mindy M Burkhamer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Paxton, IL
Mindy M Burkhamer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PEL, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543
Without addressing these issues, children and teens can experience school avoidance, aggressive behaviors, lower grades, self-injury, anxiety, depression, substance use and possible suicidal thoughts.
Accepting New Clients! Do you find yourself carrying an emotional weight that seems to get heavier each day without really understanding what it is, or why? The tremendous emotional impact of the environmental and societal events over the last couple of years has been staggering. The rollercoaster of emotions that come with the grief of losing what was seen as normal and dependable, can make you feel like your world has been turned upside down.
Without addressing these issues, children and teens can experience school avoidance, aggressive behaviors, lower grades, self-injury, anxiety, depression, substance use and possible suicidal thoughts.
Accepting New Clients! Do you find yourself carrying an emotional weight that seems to get heavier each day without really understanding what it is, or why? The tremendous emotional impact of the environmental and societal events over the last couple of years has been staggering. The rollercoaster of emotions that come with the grief of losing what was seen as normal and dependable, can make you feel like your world has been turned upside down.
(331) 226-1794 View (331) 226-1794
Photo of Lupe Blanco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Paxton, IL
Lupe Blanco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
This has included immigrants adapting to new lives, parents managing family dynamics, young adults, and those with substance use disorders, complex trauma, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, parenting, and stress.
¡Hola! My name is Lupe Blanco, I am a Bilingual, English/Spanish, Licensed Social Worker (LSW). I am a proud Latina, bridging the gap for access to culturally informed mental health services within our communities of color. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Human Services. I believe that at the core of a healthy therapeutic relationship acknowledging myself as a human first and a therapist second plays a key role. I take steps to create a safe space for clients to show up as their true authentic selves and feel comfortable opening up about their experiences.
This has included immigrants adapting to new lives, parents managing family dynamics, young adults, and those with substance use disorders, complex trauma, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, parenting, and stress.
¡Hola! My name is Lupe Blanco, I am a Bilingual, English/Spanish, Licensed Social Worker (LSW). I am a proud Latina, bridging the gap for access to culturally informed mental health services within our communities of color. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Human Services. I believe that at the core of a healthy therapeutic relationship acknowledging myself as a human first and a therapist second plays a key role. I take steps to create a safe space for clients to show up as their true authentic selves and feel comfortable opening up about their experiences.
(815) 597-0697 x923 View (815) 597-0697 x923
Photo of Claire Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Paxton, IL
Claire Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608
My name is Claire Brown and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to therapy is making it what YOU want and need it to be. I see clients with a diverse range of needs, including mental health and substance use disorders. I'm comfortable treating many different mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, co-dependency, trauma, work-related stressors, and many, many others. Additionally, I'm a Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Counselor (CADC) who has extensive experience supporting those struggling with substance use disorders.
My name is Claire Brown and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to therapy is making it what YOU want and need it to be. I see clients with a diverse range of needs, including mental health and substance use disorders. I'm comfortable treating many different mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, co-dependency, trauma, work-related stressors, and many, many others. Additionally, I'm a Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Counselor (CADC) who has extensive experience supporting those struggling with substance use disorders.
(773) 322-1286 View (773) 322-1286
Photo of Alexandra Kutnick, Psychologist in Paxton, IL
Alexandra Kutnick
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60564
I provide therapy that is collaborative, understanding and humanistic, where I work together with patients to customize therapy so it is tailored to the patient's unique needs and goals. I work with people to address a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, problematic substance use, shame, loss and grief, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity issues, job and academic stress, adjustment challenges to situations such as divorce, new parenthood, stepparenting, adoption and challenges managing and coping with serious health conditions such as infertility, autoimmune disease and cancer.
I provide therapy that is collaborative, understanding and humanistic, where I work together with patients to customize therapy so it is tailored to the patient's unique needs and goals. I work with people to address a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, problematic substance use, shame, loss and grief, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity issues, job and academic stress, adjustment challenges to situations such as divorce, new parenthood, stepparenting, adoption and challenges managing and coping with serious health conditions such as infertility, autoimmune disease and cancer.
(872) 228-2144 View (872) 228-2144
Photo of Karla Ciombor Buck, Counselor in Paxton, IL
Karla Ciombor Buck
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC, CGP
Verified Verified
Crest Hill, IL 60403
I specialize in work with adult clients with mood or substance use disorders and am a certified grief counselor. I have extensive experience in crisis management, specifically pertaining to suicide risk and domestic violence. Since the family system is impacted when an individual is struggling, I have also worked closely with adult family members as they navigate through the recovery process with their loved ones. I believe that an individual’s past life experiences and personal values influence how they think and behave in the present moment.
I specialize in work with adult clients with mood or substance use disorders and am a certified grief counselor. I have extensive experience in crisis management, specifically pertaining to suicide risk and domestic violence. Since the family system is impacted when an individual is struggling, I have also worked closely with adult family members as they navigate through the recovery process with their loved ones. I believe that an individual’s past life experiences and personal values influence how they think and behave in the present moment.
(779) 803-8014 View (779) 803-8014
Photo of Paula Jean Barickman, Counselor in Paxton, IL
Paula Jean Barickman
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820
What challenges are you facing ? What seems to be holding you back from obtaining what you really want from life? I offer a holistic approach to emotional and mental and behavioral health care, and work to provide empathy and understanding . My goal is to provide a warm peaceful environment so clients, can focus on their own personal growth and empowerment. I would like to help you deal with anxiety, depression, substance use issues, or other challenges. I have worked in counseling for 30 years, and have helped many clients build a strong stable recovery lifestyle, or achieve other goals that have really improved their lives.
What challenges are you facing ? What seems to be holding you back from obtaining what you really want from life? I offer a holistic approach to emotional and mental and behavioral health care, and work to provide empathy and understanding . My goal is to provide a warm peaceful environment so clients, can focus on their own personal growth and empowerment. I would like to help you deal with anxiety, depression, substance use issues, or other challenges. I have worked in counseling for 30 years, and have helped many clients build a strong stable recovery lifestyle, or achieve other goals that have really improved their lives.
(217) 364-8373 View (217) 364-8373
Photo of Sharonda Giles, Counselor in Paxton, IL
Sharonda Giles
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60609  (Online Only)
I'm Sharonda and I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). My expertise is in providing culturally competent therapy to teens and adults dealing with substance use, anger/stress management, anxiety, depression, grief & loss, individuals involved in the criminal justice system, and those who have been victims of gun violence, as well as other traumas. I do my best to understand the needs of my clients and develop a plan together that utilizes the strengths of the individual that can help them achieve their goals.
I'm Sharonda and I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). My expertise is in providing culturally competent therapy to teens and adults dealing with substance use, anger/stress management, anxiety, depression, grief & loss, individuals involved in the criminal justice system, and those who have been victims of gun violence, as well as other traumas. I do my best to understand the needs of my clients and develop a plan together that utilizes the strengths of the individual that can help them achieve their goals.
(872) 259-9320 View (872) 259-9320
Photo of Justin Kozak, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Paxton, IL
Justin Kozak
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I'm Justin Kozak. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 10 years of clinical experience, and I am open to working with anyone; and have a wide range of experience treating Substance Use, Behavioral Issues, Anger Management, Depression, Trauma, and PTSD. I use Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Multicultural and Solution Focused Brief Therapies during a treatment session with my clients. I believe counseling is a partnership that assists you in exploring and addressing your mental, emotional, and behavioral needs.
I'm Justin Kozak. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 10 years of clinical experience, and I am open to working with anyone; and have a wide range of experience treating Substance Use, Behavioral Issues, Anger Management, Depression, Trauma, and PTSD. I use Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Multicultural and Solution Focused Brief Therapies during a treatment session with my clients. I believe counseling is a partnership that assists you in exploring and addressing your mental, emotional, and behavioral needs.
(773) 729-6236 View (773) 729-6236
Photo of Mike Tozer, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Paxton, IL
Mike Tozer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
I also have many podcasts on various mental health and substance use subjects.
I have 35 years of clinical experience and enjoy working with Veterans, First Responders, College students, High School students, anxiety, mood disorders, couples counseling and how to cope and recover from narcissistic relationship abuse and imposter syndrome. I am very passionate about treating ADHD and helping individuals know how to advocate for themselves with their schools, jobs, and health care providers. I operate primarily under the following belief, “The only thing standing between you and your goal is the story you keep telling yourself as to why you can’t achieve it.”
I also have many podcasts on various mental health and substance use subjects.
I have 35 years of clinical experience and enjoy working with Veterans, First Responders, College students, High School students, anxiety, mood disorders, couples counseling and how to cope and recover from narcissistic relationship abuse and imposter syndrome. I am very passionate about treating ADHD and helping individuals know how to advocate for themselves with their schools, jobs, and health care providers. I operate primarily under the following belief, “The only thing standing between you and your goal is the story you keep telling yourself as to why you can’t achieve it.”
(217) 288-4387 View (217) 288-4387
Photo of Danae Gonzalez, Counselor in Paxton, IL
Danae Gonzalez
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Urbana, IL 61802
I have worked in residential and outpatient settings for Mental Health and Substance Use.
As a counselor, I have good days and bad days. I understand how it feels to go through turmoil, to see the light at the end of the tunnel, and experience the rainbow after a storm. Experiencing my personal traumas and personal victories has strengthened me to be an authentic and an empathetic counselor.I have learned that caring for myself is vital to my overall well-being. By caring for myself this ensures everyone in my life, including myself, receives the best version of me. I will not expect you to do anything I am not willing to do, and this includes being vulnerable.
I have worked in residential and outpatient settings for Mental Health and Substance Use.
As a counselor, I have good days and bad days. I understand how it feels to go through turmoil, to see the light at the end of the tunnel, and experience the rainbow after a storm. Experiencing my personal traumas and personal victories has strengthened me to be an authentic and an empathetic counselor.I have learned that caring for myself is vital to my overall well-being. By caring for myself this ensures everyone in my life, including myself, receives the best version of me. I will not expect you to do anything I am not willing to do, and this includes being vulnerable.
(217) 290-9172 View (217) 290-9172
Photo of Laura Lange, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Paxton, IL
Laura Lange
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CODP I, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60564  (Online Only)
I work with both adolescents and adults who experience anxiety, trauma, OCD, depression, life transitions, substance use, grief, attachment issues, ADHD, bipolar disorder, mood disorders as well as couples who need assistance with premarital counseling, effective communication and understanding each others love languages.
In a world where selecting the right therapist can feel like navigating a sea of profiles and introductions, I aim to make your decision easier. I am a therapist who brings both professionalism and compassion to the table. My love for this profession runs deep, and I understand the importance of finding a therapist who creates a comfortable and safe space for you. Together we can navigate the tough stuff and celebrate the victories that lie in between. We will embark on a voyage of self-exploration where I will provide guidance, support, and practice tools to help you navigate the intricate landscape of your thoughts and emotions.
I work with both adolescents and adults who experience anxiety, trauma, OCD, depression, life transitions, substance use, grief, attachment issues, ADHD, bipolar disorder, mood disorders as well as couples who need assistance with premarital counseling, effective communication and understanding each others love languages.
In a world where selecting the right therapist can feel like navigating a sea of profiles and introductions, I aim to make your decision easier. I am a therapist who brings both professionalism and compassion to the table. My love for this profession runs deep, and I understand the importance of finding a therapist who creates a comfortable and safe space for you. Together we can navigate the tough stuff and celebrate the victories that lie in between. We will embark on a voyage of self-exploration where I will provide guidance, support, and practice tools to help you navigate the intricate landscape of your thoughts and emotions.
(331) 244-5211 View (331) 244-5211
Photo of Robin Calhoun-Palermo, Counselor in Paxton, IL
Robin Calhoun-Palermo
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181
Having to pick a therapist can be incredibly overwhelming! Don't let the stress of the unknown stop you from taking that leap. As a genuine and compassionate clinician, I enjoy connecting with my clients in a safe, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment. With 10 years experience working beside adults and adolescents struggling with substance use issues, I have helped clients move past shame and guilt to develop a strong identity and achieve personal growth.
Having to pick a therapist can be incredibly overwhelming! Don't let the stress of the unknown stop you from taking that leap. As a genuine and compassionate clinician, I enjoy connecting with my clients in a safe, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment. With 10 years experience working beside adults and adolescents struggling with substance use issues, I have helped clients move past shame and guilt to develop a strong identity and achieve personal growth.
(630) 593-7819 View (630) 593-7819
Photo of Matt Littlefield, Counselor in Paxton, IL
Matt Littlefield
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Mokena, IL 60448
I also specialize in working with adolescents who are unable to attend school due to both serious mental health issues and substance use disorders.
My approach is strengths based, focused on solutions, and present and forward directed. We will explore new possibilities and opportunities to learn how to lessen your current clinical symptoms, while improving your sense of self-acceptance, increasing your resiliency, and developing a healthier and more effective behavioral pattern moving forward. Together, we will collaborate on aligning your treatment goals with your own personal values within a warm, empathic, and compassionate space.
I also specialize in working with adolescents who are unable to attend school due to both serious mental health issues and substance use disorders.
My approach is strengths based, focused on solutions, and present and forward directed. We will explore new possibilities and opportunities to learn how to lessen your current clinical symptoms, while improving your sense of self-acceptance, increasing your resiliency, and developing a healthier and more effective behavioral pattern moving forward. Together, we will collaborate on aligning your treatment goals with your own personal values within a warm, empathic, and compassionate space.
(708) 722-8009 View (708) 722-8009
Photo of Sean Paras, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Paxton, IL
Sean Paras
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CRSS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60653
I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in supporting adults facing diverse challenges like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, personality disorders, and substance use disorders. My focus is on providing comprehensive assistance. Bringing over a decade of experience in the mental health field, my approach is grounded in client-centered therapy, which highlights the importance of meeting individuals where they are.
I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in supporting adults facing diverse challenges like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, personality disorders, and substance use disorders. My focus is on providing comprehensive assistance. Bringing over a decade of experience in the mental health field, my approach is grounded in client-centered therapy, which highlights the importance of meeting individuals where they are.
(872) 266-4016 View (872) 266-4016
Photo of Casandra Townsel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Paxton, IL
Casandra Townsel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elmhurst, IL 60126
My background includes working with individuals and families experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, lack of self-esteem and self-confidence, substance use, and trauma.
At times, we can find ourselves dealing with unresolved feelings of anxiety, fear, self-doubt, shame, and trauma. However we can still blossom. The therapeutic process goes beyond the individual. It must be addressed within the individual and their environment, and should include their cultural experiences, practices, and traditions, as well as their spirituality; this approach provides collective healing. I practice a holistic approach to providing therapeutic care. I integrate components of the mind, body, and spirit within therapeutic modalities to address the needs of each individual or family.
My background includes working with individuals and families experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, lack of self-esteem and self-confidence, substance use, and trauma.
At times, we can find ourselves dealing with unresolved feelings of anxiety, fear, self-doubt, shame, and trauma. However we can still blossom. The therapeutic process goes beyond the individual. It must be addressed within the individual and their environment, and should include their cultural experiences, practices, and traditions, as well as their spirituality; this approach provides collective healing. I practice a holistic approach to providing therapeutic care. I integrate components of the mind, body, and spirit within therapeutic modalities to address the needs of each individual or family.
(630) 423-3567 View (630) 423-3567
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.