Photo of Zach Saint, LCSW Associate in Charlotte, NC
Zach Saint
LCSW Associate, LCSW-A, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203
I specialize in trauma, substance use/addiction, anxiety, and depression.
I offer services in English and Spanish! Ofrezco servicios en inglés y español! There are times for all of us when we feel helpless or powerless over our situation. I'm here for those moments to walk alongside you - not in front, behind, or to the side. True empathy is when someone seeks to understand you and meet you where you are. My goal is to help people figure out how to use their strengths to thrive in their existing environment. Our thoughts, feelings, and actions all affect each other. If we can find the strengths in our narratives, we can redefine the way we tell our stories.
I specialize in trauma, substance use/addiction, anxiety, and depression.
I offer services in English and Spanish! Ofrezco servicios en inglés y español! There are times for all of us when we feel helpless or powerless over our situation. I'm here for those moments to walk alongside you - not in front, behind, or to the side. True empathy is when someone seeks to understand you and meet you where you are. My goal is to help people figure out how to use their strengths to thrive in their existing environment. Our thoughts, feelings, and actions all affect each other. If we can find the strengths in our narratives, we can redefine the way we tell our stories.
(704) 389-5136 View (704) 389-5136
Photo of Joey Hess, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Joey Hess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CSTIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
My experience includes treating intersecting and standalone issues related to depression, anxiety, PTSD/Trauma, end of life, substance use, major life transitions, and chronic health conditions.
Are you struggling to find help that's right for you? Are you facing difficult life transitions and unsure of how to proceed? Are you dealing with the burden of shame or guilt alone? Do you want a non-judgmental space to examine your relationship to substances? Are there behaviors you would like to change but unsure of where to start? I provide radically compassionate and accepting care to people with all life experiences and stories. I believe that a collaborative, safe, and strong relational connection is the foundation for providing a therapeutic space for clients to experience empowered growth and change.
My experience includes treating intersecting and standalone issues related to depression, anxiety, PTSD/Trauma, end of life, substance use, major life transitions, and chronic health conditions.
Are you struggling to find help that's right for you? Are you facing difficult life transitions and unsure of how to proceed? Are you dealing with the burden of shame or guilt alone? Do you want a non-judgmental space to examine your relationship to substances? Are there behaviors you would like to change but unsure of where to start? I provide radically compassionate and accepting care to people with all life experiences and stories. I believe that a collaborative, safe, and strong relational connection is the foundation for providing a therapeutic space for clients to experience empowered growth and change.
(704) 253-8718 View (704) 253-8718
Photo of Yvonne Carrasco, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Yvonne Carrasco
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205
I have over 20+ years in treating mental health and substance use disorders along with personal experiences of recovery in both utilizing a mind-body approach, cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness.
How discouraging it is to realize where you are, not understand how you got here and even worry it could get worse. What would life feel like with less worry, second guessing, comparison and overwhelm? Is anxiety, depression, fear of failure, perfectionism , regret about substance use and inability to forgive yourself chronic? Could healthier boundaries and less people pleasing improve relationship satisfaction? Do you yearn to deepen your connection to others in a more authentic way to reduce isolation and loneliness?
I have over 20+ years in treating mental health and substance use disorders along with personal experiences of recovery in both utilizing a mind-body approach, cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness.
How discouraging it is to realize where you are, not understand how you got here and even worry it could get worse. What would life feel like with less worry, second guessing, comparison and overwhelm? Is anxiety, depression, fear of failure, perfectionism , regret about substance use and inability to forgive yourself chronic? Could healthier boundaries and less people pleasing improve relationship satisfaction? Do you yearn to deepen your connection to others in a more authentic way to reduce isolation and loneliness?
(980) 414-8088 View (980) 414-8088
Photo of Hillary Belk Recovery Support Services, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Hillary Belk Recovery Support Services
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28203
I have over 14 years of recovery from substance use disorder, which has guided my life into a very centered and mindful space.
Hello! Is your life feeling out of balance? Are there things that are happening that feel a bit tough to handle? Are you unsatisfied with some aspect of your life? Do you have trouble communicating in your relationships within your life? Are there specific things you are doing that you are having trouble stopping? If you were to stop these behaviors and patterns, do you feel life would be easier? If you find yourself saying yes to any of these questions, let's look at the answers. They can help us to create some room to navigate new approaches to same old things, empowering you to be open and ready for change.
I have over 14 years of recovery from substance use disorder, which has guided my life into a very centered and mindful space.
Hello! Is your life feeling out of balance? Are there things that are happening that feel a bit tough to handle? Are you unsatisfied with some aspect of your life? Do you have trouble communicating in your relationships within your life? Are there specific things you are doing that you are having trouble stopping? If you were to stop these behaviors and patterns, do you feel life would be easier? If you find yourself saying yes to any of these questions, let's look at the answers. They can help us to create some room to navigate new approaches to same old things, empowering you to be open and ready for change.
(828) 374-9219 View (828) 374-9219
Photo of Kimberly Knight, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Kimberly Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28201
Welcome! I am a warm, non-judgmental and real person. One of my basic tenants is we, as people, are doing the best we can, and sometimes our conscious or subconscious "plan" to take care of ourselves is just not working anymore. Sometimes we need to develop a new “plan” but that can be difficult and we need help. The relationship with ourselves, family, friends and our community is a pillar to good health and well being. However things get in the way….like trauma, substance use, addiction, depression, anxiety, loneliness, illness, & fear. I want to support your concerns and help you improve your sense of wellbeing.
Welcome! I am a warm, non-judgmental and real person. One of my basic tenants is we, as people, are doing the best we can, and sometimes our conscious or subconscious "plan" to take care of ourselves is just not working anymore. Sometimes we need to develop a new “plan” but that can be difficult and we need help. The relationship with ourselves, family, friends and our community is a pillar to good health and well being. However things get in the way….like trauma, substance use, addiction, depression, anxiety, loneliness, illness, & fear. I want to support your concerns and help you improve your sense of wellbeing.
(252) 460-2825 View (252) 460-2825
Photo of Cat Glenn, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Cat Glenn
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, CADC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
My specialty is supporting people who use (whether it's an issue or not) or have used substances/alcohol, or has a loved one whose substance use has impacted you.
My approach is rooted in the belief that with awareness, knowledge, and effort you can be empowered to live the life you desire and manifest your goals. I will work with you to develop a stronger, more accepting sense of self through mindfulness, challenging negative cognitions, and validation. I deem myself a counselor, rather than a therapist, one who provides counsel through education, support, guidance, and feedback, with a more directive and accountable approach than a therapeutic exploration of one’s emotional experience. By providing "bumpers," we can work together to identify and dismantle the barriers to your intentions.
My specialty is supporting people who use (whether it's an issue or not) or have used substances/alcohol, or has a loved one whose substance use has impacted you.
My approach is rooted in the belief that with awareness, knowledge, and effort you can be empowered to live the life you desire and manifest your goals. I will work with you to develop a stronger, more accepting sense of self through mindfulness, challenging negative cognitions, and validation. I deem myself a counselor, rather than a therapist, one who provides counsel through education, support, guidance, and feedback, with a more directive and accountable approach than a therapeutic exploration of one’s emotional experience. By providing "bumpers," we can work together to identify and dismantle the barriers to your intentions.
(980) 372-4692 View (980) 372-4692
Photo of Kirsten Cole, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Kirsten Cole
Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS-I
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
Do you feel unfulfilled in your life, like something is missing? Are you hiding certain behaviors from friends and family? Are you struggling with self-esteem, anxiety or depression? Are you using unhelpful coping mechanisms such as substance use, shopping, gaming/internet, or gambling to cope with those struggles? It is difficult to understand the "why" of our thought processes and behaviors on our own. Therapy is a powerful tool that can help you work through understanding your "why" and assist in handling life transitions, achieving goals, or finding relief from symptoms of depression, anxiety, or substance use issues.
Do you feel unfulfilled in your life, like something is missing? Are you hiding certain behaviors from friends and family? Are you struggling with self-esteem, anxiety or depression? Are you using unhelpful coping mechanisms such as substance use, shopping, gaming/internet, or gambling to cope with those struggles? It is difficult to understand the "why" of our thought processes and behaviors on our own. Therapy is a powerful tool that can help you work through understanding your "why" and assist in handling life transitions, achieving goals, or finding relief from symptoms of depression, anxiety, or substance use issues.
(704) 272-2389 View (704) 272-2389
Photo of Anne Burkart, Marriage & Family Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Anne Burkart
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCASA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Life is challenging at times. Maintaining healthy relationships may feel the like the greatest challenge of all! Our relationships are influenced by our childhood, family, & life experiences. Relationships take work! They can be overwhelming with the intensity of different emotions we experience, and sometimes this leads to make choices that can be unhealthy for us. Isolation, infidelity, & substance use hold us back from having a fulfilling relationship with ourselves & with others. Through exploring our challenges, accepting who we are in this moment, & leaning into the opportunity for growth we can Embrace all life has to offer!
Life is challenging at times. Maintaining healthy relationships may feel the like the greatest challenge of all! Our relationships are influenced by our childhood, family, & life experiences. Relationships take work! They can be overwhelming with the intensity of different emotions we experience, and sometimes this leads to make choices that can be unhealthy for us. Isolation, infidelity, & substance use hold us back from having a fulfilling relationship with ourselves & with others. Through exploring our challenges, accepting who we are in this moment, & leaning into the opportunity for growth we can Embrace all life has to offer!
(704) 237-6703 View (704) 237-6703
Photo of Clear Mind Counseling LLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Clear Mind Counseling LLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
My extensive years of experience and specialization is working with individuals challenged with Substance Use Disorders.
The trauma of addiction touches all of us in one way or another. Recognizing how addiction impacts you physically, mentally, and spiritually can be an awesome awakening to an entirely new way of life. Often individuals suffer from the consequences of making high risk decisions that cause crisis for themselves and their families. Dealing with these consequences alone may increase the desire to continue substances and more negative consequences. Allow me shed light on how to end this vicious cycle. I am a dedicated and compassionate clinician that is committed to the well being of my clients and their families.
My extensive years of experience and specialization is working with individuals challenged with Substance Use Disorders.
The trauma of addiction touches all of us in one way or another. Recognizing how addiction impacts you physically, mentally, and spiritually can be an awesome awakening to an entirely new way of life. Often individuals suffer from the consequences of making high risk decisions that cause crisis for themselves and their families. Dealing with these consequences alone may increase the desire to continue substances and more negative consequences. Allow me shed light on how to end this vicious cycle. I am a dedicated and compassionate clinician that is committed to the well being of my clients and their families.
(704) 253-8619 View (704) 253-8619
Photo of Hillary Wilson, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Hillary Wilson
Counselor, LCMHC-A, LCAS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205  (Online Only)
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, substance use, trauma, or relationship issues, I will utilize evidence-based techniques and collaboratively create an individualized treatment plan together to support your healing process.
Are you tired of putting others needs before yourself? Struggling to cope with the stress of everyday? Feeling like you are not good enough? Seeking help is a strength and you should be proud of yourself for making it to this point. I am a passionate and skilled counselor who is dedicated to helping individuals overcome their emotional difficulties and achieve personal growth.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, substance use, trauma, or relationship issues, I will utilize evidence-based techniques and collaboratively create an individualized treatment plan together to support your healing process.
Are you tired of putting others needs before yourself? Struggling to cope with the stress of everyday? Feeling like you are not good enough? Seeking help is a strength and you should be proud of yourself for making it to this point. I am a passionate and skilled counselor who is dedicated to helping individuals overcome their emotional difficulties and achieve personal growth.
(980) 288-7958 View (980) 288-7958
Photo of Lauren Ivey in Charlotte, NC
Lauren Ivey
MA, LCAS, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
I have 6+ years of experience in treating substance use and concurrent mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, codependency, low self-esteem, internal conflict, stress management, and relapse prevention.
I am a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist in NC with an additional specialization in the clinical treatment of trauma. I graduated from Liberty University with a Master’s degree in Applied and Developmental Psychology. I implement a strength-based and person-centered approach and firmly believe that every individual has the capacity for growth and change. I'm passionate about helping clients identify strengths, establish healthy coping strategies, increase self-awareness, and ultimately work toward long-term healing and recovery.
I have 6+ years of experience in treating substance use and concurrent mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, codependency, low self-esteem, internal conflict, stress management, and relapse prevention.
I am a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist in NC with an additional specialization in the clinical treatment of trauma. I graduated from Liberty University with a Master’s degree in Applied and Developmental Psychology. I implement a strength-based and person-centered approach and firmly believe that every individual has the capacity for growth and change. I'm passionate about helping clients identify strengths, establish healthy coping strategies, increase self-awareness, and ultimately work toward long-term healing and recovery.
(704) 741-8281 x1127 View (704) 741-8281 x1127
Photo of Stephanie Kipp Gooding, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Stephanie Kipp Gooding
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBA, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28207  (Online Only)
I work with clients who are grappling with anxiety, depression, and stress. Many are dealing with changes in their family, including substance use, codependency, and relationship issues. My clients are diverse but they all want to feel understood and validated. The most important part of therapy is the rapport between the clinician and the client, known as unconditional positive regard. The client needs to feel supported so they can freely discuss the presenting problem. Throughout this process, I strive to be warm, empathetic, and knowledgeable. Previous clients have described me as approachable, patient, and open minded.
I work with clients who are grappling with anxiety, depression, and stress. Many are dealing with changes in their family, including substance use, codependency, and relationship issues. My clients are diverse but they all want to feel understood and validated. The most important part of therapy is the rapport between the clinician and the client, known as unconditional positive regard. The client needs to feel supported so they can freely discuss the presenting problem. Throughout this process, I strive to be warm, empathetic, and knowledgeable. Previous clients have described me as approachable, patient, and open minded.
(704) 270-6690 View (704) 270-6690
Photo of Allison Adcock, Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Allison Adcock
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269
Hi, I am Allison Adcock. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina. I specialize in substance use, addiction, and eating disorders. I take a client-centered, values-based approach when conducting therapy and work with clients to set goals based on their core values, needs, and wants. I treat ages 13+, male, female, and non-binary individuals. Conditions within my scope include depression, anxiety, substance use and addiction, and eating disorders. I also have experience treating individuals with mood and adjustment disorders.
Hi, I am Allison Adcock. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina. I specialize in substance use, addiction, and eating disorders. I take a client-centered, values-based approach when conducting therapy and work with clients to set goals based on their core values, needs, and wants. I treat ages 13+, male, female, and non-binary individuals. Conditions within my scope include depression, anxiety, substance use and addiction, and eating disorders. I also have experience treating individuals with mood and adjustment disorders.
(704) 387-5349 View (704) 387-5349
Photo of Maggie Rose Timmerman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Maggie Rose Timmerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211
It is my top priority to offer a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment for every client I serve. I provide a strengths-based, non-judgmental approach which will allow us to explore challenges together. I focus on assisting individuals navigating difficulties related to life adjustments and transitions, grief and loss, interpersonal issues, anxiety, depression, and substance use. I also work alongside couples and adult families in order to help resolve dysfunction and improve communication.
It is my top priority to offer a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment for every client I serve. I provide a strengths-based, non-judgmental approach which will allow us to explore challenges together. I focus on assisting individuals navigating difficulties related to life adjustments and transitions, grief and loss, interpersonal issues, anxiety, depression, and substance use. I also work alongside couples and adult families in order to help resolve dysfunction and improve communication.
(704) 610-5138 View (704) 610-5138
Photo of Inner Love Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Inner Love Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with clients who are battling issues with depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD, grief and loss, substance use, relationships, medical issues and difficulty coping with chronic health (kidney disease, cancer, etc), effects of trauma, feelings of worthlessness, being lost in life, self esteem, self love, goal setting, finding solutions, loneliness, and employment. I also help people who just need to vent and get it out (talk therapy). I also specialize in helping people use assertive communication to help better communication with others for the betterment of themselves for the present and the future.
I specialize in working with clients who are battling issues with depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD, grief and loss, substance use, relationships, medical issues and difficulty coping with chronic health (kidney disease, cancer, etc), effects of trauma, feelings of worthlessness, being lost in life, self esteem, self love, goal setting, finding solutions, loneliness, and employment. I also help people who just need to vent and get it out (talk therapy). I also specialize in helping people use assertive communication to help better communication with others for the betterment of themselves for the present and the future.
(336) 739-5980 View (336) 739-5980
Photo of Rise Up Counseling & Consulting PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Rise Up Counseling & Consulting PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28216  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself often feeling stressed, anxious, or depressed? Do you find yourself relying on alcohol or other addictive substances or behaviors to cope with life stresses? Do you feel like you don't know what direction your life is going and need guidance in identifying and accomplishing your personal goals? If you answer yes to any of these questions and you are ready to begin the process of healing and recovery, you do not need to search any further.
Do you find yourself often feeling stressed, anxious, or depressed? Do you find yourself relying on alcohol or other addictive substances or behaviors to cope with life stresses? Do you feel like you don't know what direction your life is going and need guidance in identifying and accomplishing your personal goals? If you answer yes to any of these questions and you are ready to begin the process of healing and recovery, you do not need to search any further.
(980) 404-2915 View (980) 404-2915
Photo of Daniel De La Cruz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Daniel De La Cruz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
Waitlist for new clients
I am a bilingual social worker and clinician specializing in individual outpatient therapy. Among my areas of expertise are individuals who are struggling with issues of functionality, relationships, identity, self-esteem and other manifestations of life challenges. I have a focus on multicultural populations and individuals who are seeking a space to integrate their psychedelic experiences. Many people are exploring their internal landscapes with the use of psychedelics and these experiences can be intense and challenging to integrate into the psyche without consciously doing so.
I am a bilingual social worker and clinician specializing in individual outpatient therapy. Among my areas of expertise are individuals who are struggling with issues of functionality, relationships, identity, self-esteem and other manifestations of life challenges. I have a focus on multicultural populations and individuals who are seeking a space to integrate their psychedelic experiences. Many people are exploring their internal landscapes with the use of psychedelics and these experiences can be intense and challenging to integrate into the psyche without consciously doing so.
(336) 814-9205 View (336) 814-9205
Photo of Andrea M Evans, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Charlotte, NC
Andrea M Evans
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LCASA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28273
Life is a journey filled with sharp turns, bumps, curves, and changes that can take you off course. The challenges and stressors can be hard to face head-on without some help and guidance. Choosing to seek therapy is a good sign of strength that you are putting yourself back on the road of healing and recovery.
Life is a journey filled with sharp turns, bumps, curves, and changes that can take you off course. The challenges and stressors can be hard to face head-on without some help and guidance. Choosing to seek therapy is a good sign of strength that you are putting yourself back on the road of healing and recovery.
(704) 251-6728 View (704) 251-6728
Photo of Bethany V, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charlotte, NC
Bethany V
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, NPT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28227  (Online Only)
From a young age, Bethany sensed a deep calling to help others, propelled by her inherent empathy. Raised in a Hawaiian family, she embodies the profound Aloha spirit. With over two decades of clinical experience and active-duty military service, Bethany has emerged as the go-to Licensed Clinical Neuro Psychotherapist! Alongside her role in private practice, she also serves in a Trauma 1 Emergency Room, is a US Military Star Behavioral Health Provider, and is the Owner of Lōkahi Wellbeing. Bethany finds joy in global travel and exploring diverse cultures, while embodying values of love, respect, and balance.
From a young age, Bethany sensed a deep calling to help others, propelled by her inherent empathy. Raised in a Hawaiian family, she embodies the profound Aloha spirit. With over two decades of clinical experience and active-duty military service, Bethany has emerged as the go-to Licensed Clinical Neuro Psychotherapist! Alongside her role in private practice, she also serves in a Trauma 1 Emergency Room, is a US Military Star Behavioral Health Provider, and is the Owner of Lōkahi Wellbeing. Bethany finds joy in global travel and exploring diverse cultures, while embodying values of love, respect, and balance.
(704) 326-7640 View (704) 326-7640
Photo of The Safety Net Youth Services, Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner in Charlotte, NC
The Safety Net Youth Services
Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner, LSATP, ICAADC, CCTS-A, LCAS, SAP/DOT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28216  (Online Only)
The Safety Net Youth Services, is a Nonprofit organization, our goal is to provide enrichment services for communities, families, children, in crisis, in the state of Georgia. Our agency is a was established in 11/2015. Our agency offers the following services; Intervention/Prevention, Child Development, Social Awareness, Outreach, Assessments (Substance abuse, Anger Management, and Trauma), Group/Family/Individual Counseling Sessions. Mission Statement: To provide services for children and youth in crisis, and strengthen the communities with safety and support.
The Safety Net Youth Services, is a Nonprofit organization, our goal is to provide enrichment services for communities, families, children, in crisis, in the state of Georgia. Our agency is a was established in 11/2015. Our agency offers the following services; Intervention/Prevention, Child Development, Social Awareness, Outreach, Assessments (Substance abuse, Anger Management, and Trauma), Group/Family/Individual Counseling Sessions. Mission Statement: To provide services for children and youth in crisis, and strengthen the communities with safety and support.
(404) 856-0969 View (404) 856-0969
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.