Photo of Ryan Noel, Psychologist in Portland, ME
Ryan Noel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Hello and thank you for visiting my page. I'm here to help you navigate the challenging process of finding a therapist who is the best fit for you. I have specialized experience working with college students and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. My clients experience a safe and welcoming environment and feel seen, heard, and validated. I also provide an in person Tuesday day evenening group in Portland for adults who seek a safe and supportive space to explore their relationship with drug use and positive changes through harm reduction.
Hello and thank you for visiting my page. I'm here to help you navigate the challenging process of finding a therapist who is the best fit for you. I have specialized experience working with college students and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. My clients experience a safe and welcoming environment and feel seen, heard, and validated. I also provide an in person Tuesday day evenening group in Portland for adults who seek a safe and supportive space to explore their relationship with drug use and positive changes through harm reduction.
(207) 292-5835 View (207) 292-5835
Photo of Lb Brier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Lb Brier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCAS, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
I often work with folks struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use addiction, and life transitions.
I strive to reach clients where they are holistically and enjoy working with people at every phase of their journey. My goal as a therapist is to establish an authentic and trusting relationship to work together to help you live a fulfilling life. I enjoy working with folks at every stage of their life journey, and understand that reaching out is a huge step for many people. I want to help folks realize their goals of self actualization, peace, contentment, and happiness.
I often work with folks struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use addiction, and life transitions.
I strive to reach clients where they are holistically and enjoy working with people at every phase of their journey. My goal as a therapist is to establish an authentic and trusting relationship to work together to help you live a fulfilling life. I enjoy working with folks at every stage of their life journey, and understand that reaching out is a huge step for many people. I want to help folks realize their goals of self actualization, peace, contentment, and happiness.
(828) 373-2480 View (828) 373-2480
Photo of Shelby Briggs, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Portland, ME
Shelby Briggs
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
If you've made it this far and you're reading this, you must be a Warrior. Really. Having Substance Use Disorder (SUD), or loving someone who has SUD, is not for the weak at heart. I liken it's reach to a tornado, an EF5 tornado actually. But here's the thing; You and I working together - we are to SUD what FEMA is to a tornado. Together, we can pick up the wreckage, organize it, decide what parts you want to keep, which ones you want to fix, and where to start fresh. You are not alone. In fact, 1 in 3 American families are struggling with SUD in the home. 22 Million Americans are in long-term recovery. All of them needed help too.
If you've made it this far and you're reading this, you must be a Warrior. Really. Having Substance Use Disorder (SUD), or loving someone who has SUD, is not for the weak at heart. I liken it's reach to a tornado, an EF5 tornado actually. But here's the thing; You and I working together - we are to SUD what FEMA is to a tornado. Together, we can pick up the wreckage, organize it, decide what parts you want to keep, which ones you want to fix, and where to start fresh. You are not alone. In fact, 1 in 3 American families are struggling with SUD in the home. 22 Million Americans are in long-term recovery. All of them needed help too.
(207) 230-6957 View (207) 230-6957
Photo of Daphne Berta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Daphne Berta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Your circumstances may stem from stress, relationships, substance use, trauma, anxiety or depression; it is my belief that all systems have strengths and I am committed to helping identify goals and values; to assist you in determining the tools and skills needed to reach those goals.
Not accepting new clients at this time. If you are here, you are likely feeling challenged, fearful or maybe stuck right now. It takes strength and courage to reach for help; I know this isn't easy. I believe every person has the potential to grow and change and I am here to support you, not to judge you. If you are ready, I am here to help. Sometimes taking that first step can seem lonely, overwhelming or intimidating. I can help to make your journey for change less overwhelming. I will be here as a source of truth, hope, and support, while witnessing the full spectrum of your journey.
Your circumstances may stem from stress, relationships, substance use, trauma, anxiety or depression; it is my belief that all systems have strengths and I am committed to helping identify goals and values; to assist you in determining the tools and skills needed to reach those goals.
Not accepting new clients at this time. If you are here, you are likely feeling challenged, fearful or maybe stuck right now. It takes strength and courage to reach for help; I know this isn't easy. I believe every person has the potential to grow and change and I am here to support you, not to judge you. If you are ready, I am here to help. Sometimes taking that first step can seem lonely, overwhelming or intimidating. I can help to make your journey for change less overwhelming. I will be here as a source of truth, hope, and support, while witnessing the full spectrum of your journey.
(207) 762-7502 View (207) 762-7502
Photo of Dr. Emily Stultz - Kennebec Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Dr. Emily Stultz - Kennebec Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
I have over 8 years of experience in the field of social work and my clinical experience includes veteran/military mental health, school-based therapy, in-home therapy with at risk youth and their families, substance use treatment, treating co-occurring disorders, trauma-based treatment and outpatient mental health counseling.
Whether you are new to therapy or returning, my goal is to provide a safe space and a balanced therapeutic alliance that will promote healing and personal growth. I believe you are the expert on you, and I will support you as you work towards your goals. I view the therapeutic process as a person-centered collaboration in which clients gain new insights, build inner strength, and create desired life changes.
I have over 8 years of experience in the field of social work and my clinical experience includes veteran/military mental health, school-based therapy, in-home therapy with at risk youth and their families, substance use treatment, treating co-occurring disorders, trauma-based treatment and outpatient mental health counseling.
Whether you are new to therapy or returning, my goal is to provide a safe space and a balanced therapeutic alliance that will promote healing and personal growth. I believe you are the expert on you, and I will support you as you work towards your goals. I view the therapeutic process as a person-centered collaboration in which clients gain new insights, build inner strength, and create desired life changes.
(207) 521-9488 View (207) 521-9488
Photo of Karen S Kantor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Karen S Kantor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Are you struggling to lead a bigger life? Is self-doubt, anxiety or depression getting in your way? I offer compassionate, non-judgmental treatment for adults struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, substance use and other issues. Using an integrated approach, I help clients create a toolbox of skills to use in times of distress, and provide a warm and supportive environment for self-exploration, growth and transformation.
Are you struggling to lead a bigger life? Is self-doubt, anxiety or depression getting in your way? I offer compassionate, non-judgmental treatment for adults struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, substance use and other issues. Using an integrated approach, I help clients create a toolbox of skills to use in times of distress, and provide a warm and supportive environment for self-exploration, growth and transformation.
(857) 290-4483 View (857) 290-4483
Photo of Sara Ann Therrien in Portland, ME
Sara Ann Therrien
MA, QMHP
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
For over ten years I have worked with people facing significant life challenges due to anxiety, substance use and family issues.
I help people who have anxiety, overwhelm or stressful relationships find clarity and serenity. In 2014, after years of talk therapy and recovery work, I became frustrated by the lack of progress in a few key areas. I decided to go deeper and I combined "parts work" with a mediation facilitation process. The healing I experienced was astounding. I researched other practitioners who were working at these deep levels, began studying evidence based techniques with Sarah Peyton, and I implemented these life changing models into my work. A past client posted: "Sara’s way of providing help creates peace in the battle zone of my brain."
For over ten years I have worked with people facing significant life challenges due to anxiety, substance use and family issues.
I help people who have anxiety, overwhelm or stressful relationships find clarity and serenity. In 2014, after years of talk therapy and recovery work, I became frustrated by the lack of progress in a few key areas. I decided to go deeper and I combined "parts work" with a mediation facilitation process. The healing I experienced was astounding. I researched other practitioners who were working at these deep levels, began studying evidence based techniques with Sarah Peyton, and I implemented these life changing models into my work. A past client posted: "Sara’s way of providing help creates peace in the battle zone of my brain."
(207) 835-3352 View (207) 835-3352
Photo of Cheyne West, Counselor in Portland, ME
Cheyne West
Counselor, LCPC-C
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04102
I specialize in treating people who have experienced trauma, loss, substance use, depression, anxiety, and those going through life transitions including parenthood.
I am accepting new clients. I know life can be hard, and if you have experienced trauma it can be difficult to talk about. Sometimes a different approach is needed. As a trauma-informed, expressive art therapist, building trust and safety is always my first goal. Together, we can find creative ways to understand your inner experience and uncover new coping skills that feel aligned with your current values. I offer individual and group work. My ideal clients are curious, willing to explore, and eager to develop more compassion and a deeper understanding of self. I work with adults ages 18 and older.
I specialize in treating people who have experienced trauma, loss, substance use, depression, anxiety, and those going through life transitions including parenthood.
I am accepting new clients. I know life can be hard, and if you have experienced trauma it can be difficult to talk about. Sometimes a different approach is needed. As a trauma-informed, expressive art therapist, building trust and safety is always my first goal. Together, we can find creative ways to understand your inner experience and uncover new coping skills that feel aligned with your current values. I offer individual and group work. My ideal clients are curious, willing to explore, and eager to develop more compassion and a deeper understanding of self. I work with adults ages 18 and older.
(207) 521-9769 View (207) 521-9769
Photo of Justin Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Justin Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
I specialize in working with people who experience substance use disorders and developmental trauma.
Please note that I am currently at capacity and unable to accept new patients at this time. There is wisdom in the ways we adapt to our environments, but they do not always serve us in the present moment. My aim is to help people identify their adaptive patterns and view them with compassion, while also learning what to hold and what to let go. As a neurobiological informed therapist, I aim to help people move from judgement, shame and isolation to curiosity, acceptance and connection.
I specialize in working with people who experience substance use disorders and developmental trauma.
Please note that I am currently at capacity and unable to accept new patients at this time. There is wisdom in the ways we adapt to our environments, but they do not always serve us in the present moment. My aim is to help people identify their adaptive patterns and view them with compassion, while also learning what to hold and what to let go. As a neurobiological informed therapist, I aim to help people move from judgement, shame and isolation to curiosity, acceptance and connection.
(207) 218-0296 View (207) 218-0296
Photo of Catherine E Cooper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Catherine E Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
My experience includes substance use, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, domestic violence, PTSD, body & gender dysphoria, complex trauma, mood disorders & concerns related to aging.
Life is hard, but it can be a little less hard when we prioritize ourselves and take care of our mental health. I would love the opportunity to support you in your journey. My practice is anchored in social justice, with the acknowledgement that societal conditions influence our experiences & feelings. Using a humanistic approach, I tailor the work to your goals & personality, but have been successful integrating CBT, Psychodynamic, Family Systems, Radical Acceptance, & mindfulness modalities. You are the expert in your own life; I am here to provide empathy & support as we untangle the issues that matter to you.
My experience includes substance use, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, domestic violence, PTSD, body & gender dysphoria, complex trauma, mood disorders & concerns related to aging.
Life is hard, but it can be a little less hard when we prioritize ourselves and take care of our mental health. I would love the opportunity to support you in your journey. My practice is anchored in social justice, with the acknowledgement that societal conditions influence our experiences & feelings. Using a humanistic approach, I tailor the work to your goals & personality, but have been successful integrating CBT, Psychodynamic, Family Systems, Radical Acceptance, & mindfulness modalities. You are the expert in your own life; I am here to provide empathy & support as we untangle the issues that matter to you.
(617) 390-8131 View (617) 390-8131
Photo of Melissa Linden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Melissa Linden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience in multiple settings working with substance use disorders, relapse prevention, co-occuring disorders, institutional / urban trauma, CPTSD/PTSD, LGBTQ+ community, and legally involved individuals.
I believe a sense of trust is a key component for someone feeling safe in therapy. My goal is to provide a non-judgmental therapeutic relationship that will provide that experience for all of my clients. My unique, person-centered approach to therapy gives you the space to feel safe, secure and supported while using evidenced based modalities. I am trained in EMDR, DBT, CBT and Motivational Interviewing and tailor treatment to the individual. My role as your therapist is to help provide the tools needed to gain insight, self-discovery and healing from past experiences, allowing you to live a happier and more fulfilling future
I have experience in multiple settings working with substance use disorders, relapse prevention, co-occuring disorders, institutional / urban trauma, CPTSD/PTSD, LGBTQ+ community, and legally involved individuals.
I believe a sense of trust is a key component for someone feeling safe in therapy. My goal is to provide a non-judgmental therapeutic relationship that will provide that experience for all of my clients. My unique, person-centered approach to therapy gives you the space to feel safe, secure and supported while using evidenced based modalities. I am trained in EMDR, DBT, CBT and Motivational Interviewing and tailor treatment to the individual. My role as your therapist is to help provide the tools needed to gain insight, self-discovery and healing from past experiences, allowing you to live a happier and more fulfilling future
(860) 831-4261 View (860) 831-4261
Photo of Shannon Spillane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Shannon Spillane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
I want you to feel empowered, hopeful, and proud of exactly who you are. As we grow, we all experience transitions and challenges that can shake our core beliefs about ourselves, our relationships, and our sense of belonging and purpose in this world. I have worked with people of all ages to address the cause and effects of trauma, mental health issues, and substance use disorders on individual and family functioning. I am passionate about helping people work through difficult times or process past experiences to rebuild their sense of self worth, develop healthy coping skills, and confidently move into the future.
I want you to feel empowered, hopeful, and proud of exactly who you are. As we grow, we all experience transitions and challenges that can shake our core beliefs about ourselves, our relationships, and our sense of belonging and purpose in this world. I have worked with people of all ages to address the cause and effects of trauma, mental health issues, and substance use disorders on individual and family functioning. I am passionate about helping people work through difficult times or process past experiences to rebuild their sense of self worth, develop healthy coping skills, and confidently move into the future.
(207) 305-4874 View (207) 305-4874
Photo of Greg Perchik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Greg Perchik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCS
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
I provide individual counseling to help people move through periods in their life that may cause them distress, and help them identify the tools to navigate the uncertainty or challenges they may be facing. I have been a practicing therapist and clinical supervisor for over 10 years and, through this experience, I have been privileged to work with a variety of individuals to help them navigate uncertain times. Through implementing empathy, rapport building, humor and goal setting I aim to help others feel that change is possible.
I provide individual counseling to help people move through periods in their life that may cause them distress, and help them identify the tools to navigate the uncertainty or challenges they may be facing. I have been a practicing therapist and clinical supervisor for over 10 years and, through this experience, I have been privileged to work with a variety of individuals to help them navigate uncertain times. Through implementing empathy, rapport building, humor and goal setting I aim to help others feel that change is possible.
(207) 730-6340 View (207) 730-6340
Photo of Eric Pratt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Eric Pratt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-CC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
If you are someone who is experiencing anxiety or stress in your life, I would love to help you work through those feelings. I have extensive experience working with LGBTQIA+ adolescents and young adults, so if you are experiencing difficulties associated with identity exploration, at any age, we may be a good fit for one another. If you have feelings that are impacting your daily life and goals for how you would like your life to be, we could collaborate to work toward those goals. I have experience working with teens/young adults, the LGBTQIA+ community, unhoused populations, and in both rural and urban settings.
If you are someone who is experiencing anxiety or stress in your life, I would love to help you work through those feelings. I have extensive experience working with LGBTQIA+ adolescents and young adults, so if you are experiencing difficulties associated with identity exploration, at any age, we may be a good fit for one another. If you have feelings that are impacting your daily life and goals for how you would like your life to be, we could collaborate to work toward those goals. I have experience working with teens/young adults, the LGBTQIA+ community, unhoused populations, and in both rural and urban settings.
(207) 803-6039 View (207) 803-6039
Photo of Josh Kingsbury, Psychologist in Portland, ME
Josh Kingsbury
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
We all experience challenges during our everyday lives. Sometimes these challenges can seem overwhelming and discouraging. I work with people who want to make changes in their lives to help themselves overcome these difficult experiences. These changes can often be difficult to contemplate, yet alone act on. I strive to create a supportive environment for my clients where they can explore their concerns and the emotions that arise.
We all experience challenges during our everyday lives. Sometimes these challenges can seem overwhelming and discouraging. I work with people who want to make changes in their lives to help themselves overcome these difficult experiences. These changes can often be difficult to contemplate, yet alone act on. I strive to create a supportive environment for my clients where they can explore their concerns and the emotions that arise.
(207) 773-2828 x107 View (207) 773-2828 x107
Photo of Shannon M Fitzgerald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Shannon M Fitzgerald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Waitlist for new clients
There are times in our lives when we end up feeling sad, angry, anxious, or lost. Sometimes, we find ourselves in unwanted patterns that lead to self-doubt, damaged relationships, failure to reach our potential and an inability to see our worth. Therapy can help people recognize these patterns and learn new ways to cope.
There are times in our lives when we end up feeling sad, angry, anxious, or lost. Sometimes, we find ourselves in unwanted patterns that lead to self-doubt, damaged relationships, failure to reach our potential and an inability to see our worth. Therapy can help people recognize these patterns and learn new ways to cope.
(857) 370-6896 View (857) 370-6896
Photo of Jenn Vigue, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Jenn Vigue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BACS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in New Orleans, LA. I am licensed and able to see Maine residents for therapy virtually as well. Working from a trauma-informed lens, I work to facilitate a collaborative and empowering approach to counseling. My theoretical approach stems from a radical social justice paradigm with the incorporation of liberation-based healing practices, expressive arts therapy, feminist, and relational-cultural theory. I work with both individuals and couples, offering a supportive space for personal and relational growth.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in New Orleans, LA. I am licensed and able to see Maine residents for therapy virtually as well. Working from a trauma-informed lens, I work to facilitate a collaborative and empowering approach to counseling. My theoretical approach stems from a radical social justice paradigm with the incorporation of liberation-based healing practices, expressive arts therapy, feminist, and relational-cultural theory. I work with both individuals and couples, offering a supportive space for personal and relational growth.
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Photo of Diane Katherine Clukey-Chenard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Diane Katherine Clukey-Chenard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04102
For more than 20 years in Maine and Florida I’ve helped teens and adults navigate anxiety, depression, grief and trauma in healthy healing and productive ways. I bring an understanding of trauma, grief, depression and anxiety and how they can play out in negative ways in everyday life. I bring 25+ years of working with the LGBTQIA+ community helping folks celebrate who they are while at the same time acknowledging the stress and unique family factors this amazing community deals with on a daily basis. Having run a grief group for over 10 years, I have a deep understanding of loss and the individuality of each person's journey.
For more than 20 years in Maine and Florida I’ve helped teens and adults navigate anxiety, depression, grief and trauma in healthy healing and productive ways. I bring an understanding of trauma, grief, depression and anxiety and how they can play out in negative ways in everyday life. I bring 25+ years of working with the LGBTQIA+ community helping folks celebrate who they are while at the same time acknowledging the stress and unique family factors this amazing community deals with on a daily basis. Having run a grief group for over 10 years, I have a deep understanding of loss and the individuality of each person's journey.
(941) 220-5027 View (941) 220-5027
Photo of Amy Scobie-Carroll, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME
Amy Scobie-Carroll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Starting therapy can be the first step in making meaningful change in your life. You may be seeking therapy to explore a problem, change a pattern, recover from depression or anxiety, or improve relationships with others. Perhaps you are struggling with food or body image. If you are questioning your sexual orientation, coming out, and/or navigating gender identity, therapy should be a space where you feel seen and understood. Whatever your situation, it is possible to gain insight, solve problems, feel better, and be the best version of you.
Starting therapy can be the first step in making meaningful change in your life. You may be seeking therapy to explore a problem, change a pattern, recover from depression or anxiety, or improve relationships with others. Perhaps you are struggling with food or body image. If you are questioning your sexual orientation, coming out, and/or navigating gender identity, therapy should be a space where you feel seen and understood. Whatever your situation, it is possible to gain insight, solve problems, feel better, and be the best version of you.
(508) 321-6477 View (508) 321-6477
Photo of Jason R. Ronco, LCPC, Counselor in Portland, ME
Jason R. Ronco, LCPC
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, AMHCA, MEMHCA
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
Treating: Anxiety/Depression,Loss/Grief,Survivors of Suicide Loss,Homophobia,Racism,Anti Semitism,Sexism,Compulsions,Fantasies,Communication,Shame,Obsessions,Sexuality, Substance MisUse,Intimacy,Hopelessness,Mens’ Oppression,& Loneliness. I facilitate processing feelings. For example, crying/sadness, is a natural, healing response to a hurt. Many early care givers were uncomfortable with our crying, which shut us down. My feelings based therapy facilitates healing from old, (or current) unprocessed emotional (or physical) hurts. Unprocessed hurts underlie obsessions/compulsions, substance mis-use, isolation, anxiety/depression.
Treating: Anxiety/Depression,Loss/Grief,Survivors of Suicide Loss,Homophobia,Racism,Anti Semitism,Sexism,Compulsions,Fantasies,Communication,Shame,Obsessions,Sexuality, Substance MisUse,Intimacy,Hopelessness,Mens’ Oppression,& Loneliness. I facilitate processing feelings. For example, crying/sadness, is a natural, healing response to a hurt. Many early care givers were uncomfortable with our crying, which shut us down. My feelings based therapy facilitates healing from old, (or current) unprocessed emotional (or physical) hurts. Unprocessed hurts underlie obsessions/compulsions, substance mis-use, isolation, anxiety/depression.
(207) 618-9272 View (207) 618-9272
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.