Substance Use Therapists in The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC

Photo of Caroline Cotto/Progress to Peace, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC
Caroline Cotto/Progress to Peace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC 28270
I specialize in substance use disorder, depression and anxiety, trauma, occupational stress and conflict, aging, couples/partner counseling, adolescents, parenting and family therapy.
Seeking a counselor can be hard, even scary. I provide a welcoming place that is quiet, safe and relaxing. This is your time to decide what you most want, what changes you can make, and how to do it. At your initial visit you get to tell your story and discuss your goals. Within our first meeting we create a plan for how to make the changes you want. There's no rush and no pressure. I believe everyone has the power to get the life they want. It will take some work, and you now have a partner to guide you there.
I specialize in substance use disorder, depression and anxiety, trauma, occupational stress and conflict, aging, couples/partner counseling, adolescents, parenting and family therapy.
Seeking a counselor can be hard, even scary. I provide a welcoming place that is quiet, safe and relaxing. This is your time to decide what you most want, what changes you can make, and how to do it. At your initial visit you get to tell your story and discuss your goals. Within our first meeting we create a plan for how to make the changes you want. There's no rush and no pressure. I believe everyone has the power to get the life they want. It will take some work, and you now have a partner to guide you there.
(704) 594-8047 View (704) 594-8047
Photo of Brooke Osterhoudt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC
Brooke Osterhoudt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, MSW
Verified Verified
The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC 28270
We are all capable of experiencing connection, joy, and a sense of wonder in our everyday lives. However, there are several barriers that prevent us from getting the most out of life such as depression, addiction, grief, loss, low self-esteem, feeling disconnected and unfulfilled. I work in a caring, supportive, and respectful way to confront self-sabotaging behaviors. Together, we will explore present day conflicts, especially relationship and attachment issues, which have prevented you from achieving your goals in life. I am committed to helping you discover new possibilities that will support an abundant and purposeful life.
We are all capable of experiencing connection, joy, and a sense of wonder in our everyday lives. However, there are several barriers that prevent us from getting the most out of life such as depression, addiction, grief, loss, low self-esteem, feeling disconnected and unfulfilled. I work in a caring, supportive, and respectful way to confront self-sabotaging behaviors. Together, we will explore present day conflicts, especially relationship and attachment issues, which have prevented you from achieving your goals in life. I am committed to helping you discover new possibilities that will support an abundant and purposeful life.
(704) 703-8523 View (704) 703-8523
Photo of The Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Center of Charlot, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC
The Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Center of Charlot
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC 28270
You have a right to a better life, to live with less distress; to have a life with possibility, potential, and vitality. I have worked with people like you who have found that within the warm, accepting, nonjudgmental, and supportive environment of our therapeutic relationship that change becomes possible. I invite you to be courageous and to reach beyond your fears to claim the life that you want. Utilizing established, researched, and respected therapies, I treat many emotional and behavioral disorders by helping clients face their struggles and move towards a valued life.
You have a right to a better life, to live with less distress; to have a life with possibility, potential, and vitality. I have worked with people like you who have found that within the warm, accepting, nonjudgmental, and supportive environment of our therapeutic relationship that change becomes possible. I invite you to be courageous and to reach beyond your fears to claim the life that you want. Utilizing established, researched, and respected therapies, I treat many emotional and behavioral disorders by helping clients face their struggles and move towards a valued life.
(980) 399-5470 View (980) 399-5470
Photo of John J Kania, Marriage & Family Therapist in The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC
John J Kania
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC 28270
Most people love what they are good at and are good at what they love. I love being a therapist. I have been professionally involved in psychology for 40 years, and it remains one of my principal passions. When I look into my heart and grasp what has mattered most in my life, I have a deep sense of gratitude for the people I've helped. I chose psychology as a profession not only because it matches my temperament but also because it's a profession that can be developed over a lifetime and improved with age and experience.
Most people love what they are good at and are good at what they love. I love being a therapist. I have been professionally involved in psychology for 40 years, and it remains one of my principal passions. When I look into my heart and grasp what has mattered most in my life, I have a deep sense of gratitude for the people I've helped. I chose psychology as a profession not only because it matches my temperament but also because it's a profession that can be developed over a lifetime and improved with age and experience.
(704) 751-5062 View (704) 751-5062
Photo of Pam Lassiter, Counselor in The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC
Pam Lassiter
Counselor, PhD, LMHCS, LMFT, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC 28270
Mental and emotional wellness is important in this hectic world today. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, & Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist with 35 years of counseling experience. My practice serves individuals, couples, and families who are seeking assistance with a wide array of concerns including life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and grief and loss. I am an LGBTQ affirming counselor. I can help with trauma issues using techniques like EMDR. My specialties include couples counseling, adult children of alcoholics issues, and women's issues.
Mental and emotional wellness is important in this hectic world today. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, & Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist with 35 years of counseling experience. My practice serves individuals, couples, and families who are seeking assistance with a wide array of concerns including life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and grief and loss. I am an LGBTQ affirming counselor. I can help with trauma issues using techniques like EMDR. My specialties include couples counseling, adult children of alcoholics issues, and women's issues.
(704) 259-7132 View (704) 259-7132
Photo of Blake Clemmons, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC
Blake Clemmons
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC 28270  (Online Only)
Are you feeling burnt out or frustrated with ongoing addictions, anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, stress, marriage communication and stress? Have you ever felt like it's difficult to find a trusted person that is safe and willing to truly listen to your concerns? I believe CHANGE can only occur when we feel valued, encouraged, understood and SAFE to work through the difficulties of life. If you are looking for professional, clinical therapy from a Christian perspective then please feel free to reach out. I believe that God is our ultimate healer and invite Him into therapy with you!
Are you feeling burnt out or frustrated with ongoing addictions, anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, stress, marriage communication and stress? Have you ever felt like it's difficult to find a trusted person that is safe and willing to truly listen to your concerns? I believe CHANGE can only occur when we feel valued, encouraged, understood and SAFE to work through the difficulties of life. If you are looking for professional, clinical therapy from a Christian perspective then please feel free to reach out. I believe that God is our ultimate healer and invite Him into therapy with you!
(704) 769-2751 View (704) 769-2751
Photo of Carissa Kuhn, Licensed Professional Counselor in The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC
Carissa Kuhn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC 28270
Do you notice that your teen is not themselves? Do they seem overwhelmed? Are they angry or withdrawn? As a parent of a struggling teen, you find yourself worrying about them and you want to make things better. But everything you have tried doesn’t seem to be working. It can be hard to reach out to a counselor because you want to find someone you trust who is knowledgeable but you also want that counselor to be able to get your teen to open up and talk about what is bothering them.
Do you notice that your teen is not themselves? Do they seem overwhelmed? Are they angry or withdrawn? As a parent of a struggling teen, you find yourself worrying about them and you want to make things better. But everything you have tried doesn’t seem to be working. It can be hard to reach out to a counselor because you want to find someone you trust who is knowledgeable but you also want that counselor to be able to get your teen to open up and talk about what is bothering them.
(704) 707-3512 View (704) 707-3512
Photo of Jen Larkin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC
Jen Larkin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC 28270  (Online Only)
Sometimes it might feel like finding peace, contentment, and a sense of being "okay" is out of reach. The weight of traumas, heartaches, anxieties, and other painful emotions can linger, clouding our thoughts and leaving us feeling stuck. But here's what's important: they contain the key to your own healing.
Sometimes it might feel like finding peace, contentment, and a sense of being "okay" is out of reach. The weight of traumas, heartaches, anxieties, and other painful emotions can linger, clouding our thoughts and leaving us feeling stuck. But here's what's important: they contain the key to your own healing.
(828) 374-1639 View (828) 374-1639
Photo of Mark Livak, Counselor in The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC
Mark Livak
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC 28270
Hello, I am Mark, thank you for reviewing my listing. I seek to create a safe place, where my clients can experience the necessary support to heal from the relational and emotional wounds that make them feel hurt, stuck, and confused. I collaborate with my clients to restore hope and renew relational fulfillment. I believe that everyone is unique and infinitely valuable; my clients deserve unconditional respect and should receive personalized care. I help my clients gain insight into their hurt feelings and resulting actions. During therapy, my goals are that my clients feel seen, experience emotional safety, and become reassured.
Hello, I am Mark, thank you for reviewing my listing. I seek to create a safe place, where my clients can experience the necessary support to heal from the relational and emotional wounds that make them feel hurt, stuck, and confused. I collaborate with my clients to restore hope and renew relational fulfillment. I believe that everyone is unique and infinitely valuable; my clients deserve unconditional respect and should receive personalized care. I help my clients gain insight into their hurt feelings and resulting actions. During therapy, my goals are that my clients feel seen, experience emotional safety, and become reassured.
(704) 268-9898 View (704) 268-9898
Photo of Cyrena B Wooster, Pre-Licensed Professional in The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC
Cyrena B Wooster
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC 28270
Finding a therapist who is a good fit for you is so important. Please feel free to reach out to me for a free phone call to give you an opportunity to see if we are a good fit. My goal is to make you feel comfortable throughout the whole process. I accept BlueCross BlueShield insurance and I am currently seeing clients online, in-person, and I also offer Walk and Talk sessions on the greenway. Please let me know if you have any questions and I'd be happy to chat with you.
Finding a therapist who is a good fit for you is so important. Please feel free to reach out to me for a free phone call to give you an opportunity to see if we are a good fit. My goal is to make you feel comfortable throughout the whole process. I accept BlueCross BlueShield insurance and I am currently seeing clients online, in-person, and I also offer Walk and Talk sessions on the greenway. Please let me know if you have any questions and I'd be happy to chat with you.
(704) 931-5839 View (704) 931-5839
Photo of Danielle DeFrancesco, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC
Danielle DeFrancesco
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, NCC, CCMHC, MCAP, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC 28270
Danielle has dedicated her time to improving the mental health of persons of all ages (2 y.o. and up) and from all backgrounds. She has a passion for working with a wide range of emotional and behavioral disorders, and excels in treating complex childhood trauma. She also specializes in treating drug and alcohol addiction. Danielle believes in the power of advocacy and empathic listening as tools for change in the form of empowerment, self sufficiency, and self esteem. She combines evidenced based practices with creativity and holistic wellness, to create an environment conducive to meeting the unique needs of her clients.
Danielle has dedicated her time to improving the mental health of persons of all ages (2 y.o. and up) and from all backgrounds. She has a passion for working with a wide range of emotional and behavioral disorders, and excels in treating complex childhood trauma. She also specializes in treating drug and alcohol addiction. Danielle believes in the power of advocacy and empathic listening as tools for change in the form of empowerment, self sufficiency, and self esteem. She combines evidenced based practices with creativity and holistic wellness, to create an environment conducive to meeting the unique needs of her clients.
(704) 246-3254 View (704) 246-3254

Online Therapists

Photo of Megan Simon Kekich, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC
Megan Simon Kekich
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCMHC-A, LCAS, CCS-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
I have worked with adults 18 and up with mental health disorders, substance use disorders, and other life-challenges interfering with people living their best lives.
I strive to meet people where they are and create a safe environment where people can process underlying trauma/life-challenge to support more alignment with their intuition/goals. Part of my work with people entails reframing/challenging negative self-talk, helping set realistic short-term goals to aid in accomplishing long-term ones, improving emotion regulation, and developing mindfulness skills. I am an ally in all forms and address people-problems regardless of labels. I enjoy helping LCAS-A, LCAS-R, CADC-A, CADC-R clinicians through virtual weekly supervision groups on Wednesdays at 12pm. Individual supervisions are available.
I have worked with adults 18 and up with mental health disorders, substance use disorders, and other life-challenges interfering with people living their best lives.
I strive to meet people where they are and create a safe environment where people can process underlying trauma/life-challenge to support more alignment with their intuition/goals. Part of my work with people entails reframing/challenging negative self-talk, helping set realistic short-term goals to aid in accomplishing long-term ones, improving emotion regulation, and developing mindfulness skills. I am an ally in all forms and address people-problems regardless of labels. I enjoy helping LCAS-A, LCAS-R, CADC-A, CADC-R clinicians through virtual weekly supervision groups on Wednesdays at 12pm. Individual supervisions are available.
(704) 741-2936 View (704) 741-2936
Photo of Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC
Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCMHC-S, LCAS, SAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
Hutchinson provides Family, Couples or Individual Counseling thru Telehealth to help you learn and change interpersonal, work or substance use habits impacting your life.
Experiencing family, work or relationship issues that are overwhelming, you’re not alone. Counseling can support you in Managing Stress & Anxiety. All services are online Due to the PANDEMIC... connect thru telehealth on your Electronic Device to our secure platform for A Safe Place to share, Learn and for support of your mental and emotional health. We are Open Mornings, Evenings and Saturdays - Serving NC and NJ.
Hutchinson provides Family, Couples or Individual Counseling thru Telehealth to help you learn and change interpersonal, work or substance use habits impacting your life.
Experiencing family, work or relationship issues that are overwhelming, you’re not alone. Counseling can support you in Managing Stress & Anxiety. All services are online Due to the PANDEMIC... connect thru telehealth on your Electronic Device to our secure platform for A Safe Place to share, Learn and for support of your mental and emotional health. We are Open Mornings, Evenings and Saturdays - Serving NC and NJ.
(980) 338-4035 View (980) 338-4035
Photo of Charlie Taylor Jr., Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist in The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC
Charlie Taylor Jr.
Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, MA, LCAS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211
I have a particular interest in working with clients who struggle with substance use/addiction, but I also enjoy working with clients on managing stress, anxiety, depression, anger, life transitions, and relationship issues in regards to being single or becoming a better partner.
Hello all! As a therapist, I understand that therapy can be an intimidating and overwhelming process to start. I strive to meet clients where they are and engage with clients using a positive, non-threatening, and relatable approach. Along with offering in-office and Telehealth visits, I offer walk-and-talk sessions to address issues and move your body outdoors. I endeavor to create a collaborative therapy process that assists clients with addressing concerns and working towards their individualized goals.
I have a particular interest in working with clients who struggle with substance use/addiction, but I also enjoy working with clients on managing stress, anxiety, depression, anger, life transitions, and relationship issues in regards to being single or becoming a better partner.
Hello all! As a therapist, I understand that therapy can be an intimidating and overwhelming process to start. I strive to meet clients where they are and engage with clients using a positive, non-threatening, and relatable approach. Along with offering in-office and Telehealth visits, I offer walk-and-talk sessions to address issues and move your body outdoors. I endeavor to create a collaborative therapy process that assists clients with addressing concerns and working towards their individualized goals.
(803) 820-4376 View (803) 820-4376
Photo of Rachel Merritt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC
Rachel Merritt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Hi, my name is Rachel Merritt. I am currently a Licensed Clinical Social Work Associate. I have experience working with adolescents who have been diagnosed with mental illness or substance use and are a part of the juvenile justice system. My area of focus has been working with youth in individual therapy, working with couples through relationships difficulties and intimacy issues and working with groups in the treatment of trauma.
Hi, my name is Rachel Merritt. I am currently a Licensed Clinical Social Work Associate. I have experience working with adolescents who have been diagnosed with mental illness or substance use and are a part of the juvenile justice system. My area of focus has been working with youth in individual therapy, working with couples through relationships difficulties and intimacy issues and working with groups in the treatment of trauma.
(704) 859-2486 View (704) 859-2486
Photo of Patrick Collins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC
Patrick Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
My background includes working with individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use issues.
Sustainable change takes time and it has been well-known for years that the most important component of this change is the therapeutic relationship. Licensed to treat both mental health and substance use issues, I use a nonjudgmental, collaborative approach, and believe strongly that my clients are the experts of their own lives. Sometimes we just need help finding our way, and I am here to walk with you on that difficult journey. Our relationship will serve as the North Star.
My background includes working with individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use issues.
Sustainable change takes time and it has been well-known for years that the most important component of this change is the therapeutic relationship. Licensed to treat both mental health and substance use issues, I use a nonjudgmental, collaborative approach, and believe strongly that my clients are the experts of their own lives. Sometimes we just need help finding our way, and I am here to walk with you on that difficult journey. Our relationship will serve as the North Star.
(980) 243-0698 View (980) 243-0698
Photo of Gabby Milando, Counselor in The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC
Gabby Milando
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS-A, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. My goal as a therapist is to walk alongside you, process past experiences, shed light on patterns you are engaging in, and provide you with tools to improve your mental health. I aim to foster growth, introspection, and self-acceptance. I enjoy working with a range of ages and concerns, but I am particularly passionate about working with young adults suffering from anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, and self-esteem issues
I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges. My goal as a therapist is to walk alongside you, process past experiences, shed light on patterns you are engaging in, and provide you with tools to improve your mental health. I aim to foster growth, introspection, and self-acceptance. I enjoy working with a range of ages and concerns, but I am particularly passionate about working with young adults suffering from anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, and self-esteem issues
(704) 937-2050 View (704) 937-2050
Photo of Karly Perkins, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC
Karly Perkins
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist, my hope is to create a space that feels welcoming to your authentic self. I aim to hold space for you to show up as you need to that day, and will honor what you need in each session whether that is a space to vent, explore new skills, be challenged, or create goals that will meet your needs. I specialize in working eating disorders and body image concerns, substance use, college students, and the LGBTQ+ community. I additionally support those experiencing anxiety, depression, impacts from trauma, identity development, life transitions, and safety concerns such as self -harm or suicidality.
As a therapist, my hope is to create a space that feels welcoming to your authentic self. I aim to hold space for you to show up as you need to that day, and will honor what you need in each session whether that is a space to vent, explore new skills, be challenged, or create goals that will meet your needs. I specialize in working eating disorders and body image concerns, substance use, college students, and the LGBTQ+ community. I additionally support those experiencing anxiety, depression, impacts from trauma, identity development, life transitions, and safety concerns such as self -harm or suicidality.
(980) 525-8519 View (980) 525-8519
Photo of Grow In Grace Behavioral Health, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC
Grow In Grace Behavioral Health, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28203
At Grow in Grace Behavioral Health, PLLC we offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We treat a number of mental health and substance use disorders, and provide a neutral ground for individuals, families, and children/adolescents to grow through what they go through. Are you experiencing extreme emotional shifts or not feeling like yourself? Maybe you are in a period of change and transition in your life and often feel invalidated by others. Perhaps your family or personal relationships are strained and you are feeling isolated or alone. We all experience tough times, let us guide you through.
At Grow in Grace Behavioral Health, PLLC we offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We treat a number of mental health and substance use disorders, and provide a neutral ground for individuals, families, and children/adolescents to grow through what they go through. Are you experiencing extreme emotional shifts or not feeling like yourself? Maybe you are in a period of change and transition in your life and often feel invalidated by others. Perhaps your family or personal relationships are strained and you are feeling isolated or alone. We all experience tough times, let us guide you through.
(704) 396-8666 View (704) 396-8666
Photo of Justin L Perry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in The Arboretum, Charlotte, NC
Justin L Perry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209
For 16+ years, I have practiced in various clinical settings working with children, adolescents, and adults enduring a wide range of mental health, substance use, and traumatic challenges.
I believe we are all recovering from something. As a clinician, I believe that a healthy nonjudgmental relationship is foundational to each of our healing journeys. Having someone who we can be honest with, who is honest with us, allows us to be honest with ourselves and reach our ultimate potential. While the therapeutic relationship is our foundation, I incorporate elements of motivational interviewing, solution focused, cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapies in order to meet you where you are and help you get to where you want to be.
For 16+ years, I have practiced in various clinical settings working with children, adolescents, and adults enduring a wide range of mental health, substance use, and traumatic challenges.
I believe we are all recovering from something. As a clinician, I believe that a healthy nonjudgmental relationship is foundational to each of our healing journeys. Having someone who we can be honest with, who is honest with us, allows us to be honest with ourselves and reach our ultimate potential. While the therapeutic relationship is our foundation, I incorporate elements of motivational interviewing, solution focused, cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapies in order to meet you where you are and help you get to where you want to be.
(704) 269-4209 View (704) 269-4209
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.