Substance Use Therapists in Lincoln County, NC

Photo of Amy Cooper, Counselor in Lincoln County, NC
Amy Cooper
Counselor, MA, LCAS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Lincolnton, NC 28092
Hello and welcome! I understand how difficult it is to ask for help. My goal is to create a safe space for you to be you- to just be human. Whether you are dealing with the shame of substance use issues, sexual identity concerns, or childhood traumas, I offer space for you to be vulnerable. What I do not provide is judgment. I offer acceptance. I believe we all heal through connection. I am here to support you through your individual journey- whatever that looks like. We can lay the burdens down together. You are not alone.
Hello and welcome! I understand how difficult it is to ask for help. My goal is to create a safe space for you to be you- to just be human. Whether you are dealing with the shame of substance use issues, sexual identity concerns, or childhood traumas, I offer space for you to be vulnerable. What I do not provide is judgment. I offer acceptance. I believe we all heal through connection. I am here to support you through your individual journey- whatever that looks like. We can lay the burdens down together. You are not alone.
(704) 703-4047 View (704) 703-4047
Photo of Justin J Barnes, Counselor in Lincoln County, NC
Justin J Barnes
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
Denver, NC 28037
I earned my graduate degree from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in Counseling with a concentration in addictions. I obtained my undergraduate degree from Charlotte Christian College and Theological Seminary in Urban Christian Ministries, where I graduated Summa Cum Laude. Areas of treatment include anxiety, stress, addiction, depression, grief & loss, and life challenges. My treatment approaches are evidence-based and include Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Person-centered therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR). I have completed Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
I earned my graduate degree from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in Counseling with a concentration in addictions. I obtained my undergraduate degree from Charlotte Christian College and Theological Seminary in Urban Christian Ministries, where I graduated Summa Cum Laude. Areas of treatment include anxiety, stress, addiction, depression, grief & loss, and life challenges. My treatment approaches are evidence-based and include Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Person-centered therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR). I have completed Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
(980) 291-4986 View (980) 291-4986
Photo of John L Adriatico, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lincoln County, NC
John L Adriatico
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBA, MA, MFT, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincolnton, NC 28092  (Online Only)
Life is a journey and sometimes we struggle with its trials. I offer a holistic approach to counseling and help adults, children, teens, families, and couples. If you or a love one is struggling with depression, ADHD, anxiety, marriage difficulties, addictions, Domestic Violence (verbal, physical, financial, and emotional abuse), family or friends that are abusive, grief and loss, self-esteem problems, divorce, spirituality, and parenting difficulties there is hope at: Counsel For Hope.
Life is a journey and sometimes we struggle with its trials. I offer a holistic approach to counseling and help adults, children, teens, families, and couples. If you or a love one is struggling with depression, ADHD, anxiety, marriage difficulties, addictions, Domestic Violence (verbal, physical, financial, and emotional abuse), family or friends that are abusive, grief and loss, self-esteem problems, divorce, spirituality, and parenting difficulties there is hope at: Counsel For Hope.
(704) 981-4378 View (704) 981-4378
Photo of Lisa Johnson, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Lincoln County, NC
Lisa Johnson
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Lincolnton, NC 28092
I take a person-centered approach to therapy. I prefer to meet the client where they are walking with them on their journey to healing and living their best life. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Trauma-Informed Care, Geriatric/Adult Mental Health, Family Systems Therapy, Mindfulness, and faith-based therapies. I have experience and am willing to work with adolescents, teens, and adults. I will see clients in person in Lincoln County, Gaston County, and Iredell County as well as through telehealth.
I take a person-centered approach to therapy. I prefer to meet the client where they are walking with them on their journey to healing and living their best life. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Trauma-Informed Care, Geriatric/Adult Mental Health, Family Systems Therapy, Mindfulness, and faith-based therapies. I have experience and am willing to work with adolescents, teens, and adults. I will see clients in person in Lincoln County, Gaston County, and Iredell County as well as through telehealth.
(704) 931-5392 View (704) 931-5392
Photo of Victoria Mexcur, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Lincoln County, NC
Victoria Mexcur
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS, LIMHP, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Iron Station, NC 28080
Coming here, clients like to take the time to get a deeper understanding of their needs and wants for personal growth. I offer a holistic, judgement free space combining traditional counseling services along with the opportunity to build relationships with horses to work through challenging experiences, thoughts, and feelings. Including horse interactions offers a different way of exploring these areas free of judgement or explanation, allowing us to heal naturally. It takes courage to explore the things that cause us distress and take the time to learn new things about our own abilities to “Tread Deep”.
Coming here, clients like to take the time to get a deeper understanding of their needs and wants for personal growth. I offer a holistic, judgement free space combining traditional counseling services along with the opportunity to build relationships with horses to work through challenging experiences, thoughts, and feelings. Including horse interactions offers a different way of exploring these areas free of judgement or explanation, allowing us to heal naturally. It takes courage to explore the things that cause us distress and take the time to learn new things about our own abilities to “Tread Deep”.
(704) 753-8928 View (704) 753-8928
Photo of Dr. Steve R Benson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lincoln County, NC
Dr. Steve R Benson
Licensed Professional Counselor, DEd Min, MAC, MDiv, LCMHC-S, LCAS
Verified Verified
Lincolnton, NC 28092
Everyone has a story. . . of joy and sorrow, love and sadness, wounds and healing. Everyone's story is sacred and waiting to be discovered. But often we struggle to read our story because of depression, anxiety, past pains, or relational difficulties. My vision is to enable people to experience God's powerful grace in order to live in true freedom, transformation and discovery. I provide a pathway for people struggling on the journey to find hope for their broken hearts, healing for their wounds, and a hiding place to wrestle with the grace of God.
Everyone has a story. . . of joy and sorrow, love and sadness, wounds and healing. Everyone's story is sacred and waiting to be discovered. But often we struggle to read our story because of depression, anxiety, past pains, or relational difficulties. My vision is to enable people to experience God's powerful grace in order to live in true freedom, transformation and discovery. I provide a pathway for people struggling on the journey to find hope for their broken hearts, healing for their wounds, and a hiding place to wrestle with the grace of God.
(704) 550-4792 View (704) 550-4792
Photo of Michele C. Blackman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lincoln County, NC
Michele C. Blackman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lincolnton, NC 28092
I offer therapy services to all individuals, couples, and families. I also offer parenting classes and anger management. I believe in tailoring treatment to fit the needs of the individual client. For this reason I don't use the same therapeutic approach with every client. Every person is unique and I believe it is important to recognize this. In addition to traditional therapy I also offer "Relationship Checkups". These checkups consist of two sessions designed for couples to attend once a year. The checkup is to provide maintenance, prevention and intervention to keep your relationship strong throughout the year.
I offer therapy services to all individuals, couples, and families. I also offer parenting classes and anger management. I believe in tailoring treatment to fit the needs of the individual client. For this reason I don't use the same therapeutic approach with every client. Every person is unique and I believe it is important to recognize this. In addition to traditional therapy I also offer "Relationship Checkups". These checkups consist of two sessions designed for couples to attend once a year. The checkup is to provide maintenance, prevention and intervention to keep your relationship strong throughout the year.
(704) 278-8076 View (704) 278-8076
Photo of Donna Murray, Counselor in Lincoln County, NC
Donna Murray
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Denver, NC 28037  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Donna Murray and I look forward to connecting with you. I’ve had the joy of working in the counseling field for over 25 years in multiple settings including: private practice, inpatient and outpatient, home-based, school-based and residential detox. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the states of Ohio, West Virginia and North Carolina and have been offering counseling services since 1996. Currently, I also serve on the West Virginia Certification Board for Addiction & Prevention Professionals.
Hello! My name is Donna Murray and I look forward to connecting with you. I’ve had the joy of working in the counseling field for over 25 years in multiple settings including: private practice, inpatient and outpatient, home-based, school-based and residential detox. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the states of Ohio, West Virginia and North Carolina and have been offering counseling services since 1996. Currently, I also serve on the West Virginia Certification Board for Addiction & Prevention Professionals.
(704) 826-3245 View (704) 826-3245
Photo of CTSHealth Integrated Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lincoln County, NC
CTSHealth Integrated Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Lincolnton, NC 28092
CTSHealth Integrative Wellness Clinic supports the clinical views of the Integrated Care Model, Person Centered Thinking, System of Care and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. With these approaches, we’re able to identify and increase the emotional, cognitive, social, and psychological functioning of our clients. We provide guidance, education, and skills to caregivers to become better equipped to assist individuals in their care. Our professional teams are committed to safeguarding the continuity of care through collaboration with all participants involved in assisting the client through the treatment process.
CTSHealth Integrative Wellness Clinic supports the clinical views of the Integrated Care Model, Person Centered Thinking, System of Care and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. With these approaches, we’re able to identify and increase the emotional, cognitive, social, and psychological functioning of our clients. We provide guidance, education, and skills to caregivers to become better equipped to assist individuals in their care. Our professional teams are committed to safeguarding the continuity of care through collaboration with all participants involved in assisting the client through the treatment process.
(828) 655-7849 View (828) 655-7849
Photo of Madison Briggs, Counselor in Lincoln County, NC
Madison Briggs
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, NC 28037
Over the past decade, the importance of mental health has been brought to the forefront of the conversation. My goal is to normalize and de-stigmatize the utilization of therapeutic interventions. I recognize the courage that it takes to ask for professional support and I am strongly committed to helping you navigate some of life’s most difficult challenges. I have been working in the mental health field for over 8 years; within this time I gained experience working with children ages 5 and up, adolescents/teens, adults, couples, and families.
Over the past decade, the importance of mental health has been brought to the forefront of the conversation. My goal is to normalize and de-stigmatize the utilization of therapeutic interventions. I recognize the courage that it takes to ask for professional support and I am strongly committed to helping you navigate some of life’s most difficult challenges. I have been working in the mental health field for over 8 years; within this time I gained experience working with children ages 5 and up, adolescents/teens, adults, couples, and families.
(980) 247-4744 View (980) 247-4744

Online Therapists

Photo of Steve Blahitka, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lincoln County, NC
Steve Blahitka
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Dallas, NC 28034
You made it this far. Keep going. You will not be judged for admitting you have a problem and need help. If you feel the grip of addiction tightening, if your life is becoming more and more difficult to manage, if your relationships are starting to be affected, maybe it's finally time for you to end the cycle. I work with clients who have any substance use disorder. If you struggle with opioids, you can receive free Medication-Assisted Treatment and counseling thanks to grant funding we were recently awarded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
You made it this far. Keep going. You will not be judged for admitting you have a problem and need help. If you feel the grip of addiction tightening, if your life is becoming more and more difficult to manage, if your relationships are starting to be affected, maybe it's finally time for you to end the cycle. I work with clients who have any substance use disorder. If you struggle with opioids, you can receive free Medication-Assisted Treatment and counseling thanks to grant funding we were recently awarded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
(704) 742-2690 View (704) 742-2690
Photo of Justin L Perry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lincoln County, 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
Photo of Laura Mosedale, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lincoln County, NC
Laura Mosedale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waxhaw, NC 28173
I am certified in Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Substance Use Disorders, and am nearing certification in EMDR, which I have used since 2019.
My goal is to provide a safe, supportive experience that meets the needs you bring with you into this space. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (in NC, SC, & CA) specializing in trauma, anxiety & depression, and chemical dependency – and in the places where these often intersect. I use a goal-directed approach to therapy, because I want you to feel like your investment is creating tangible results. (And if you’re not sure what your goals are, I am here to help discern them with you). This typically involves a combination of evidence-based treatment, supportive counseling, and foundational cognitive/behavioral skills.
I am certified in Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Substance Use Disorders, and am nearing certification in EMDR, which I have used since 2019.
My goal is to provide a safe, supportive experience that meets the needs you bring with you into this space. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (in NC, SC, & CA) specializing in trauma, anxiety & depression, and chemical dependency – and in the places where these often intersect. I use a goal-directed approach to therapy, because I want you to feel like your investment is creating tangible results. (And if you’re not sure what your goals are, I am here to help discern them with you). This typically involves a combination of evidence-based treatment, supportive counseling, and foundational cognitive/behavioral skills.
(704) 761-7401 View (704) 761-7401
Photo of Don Killian in Lincoln County, NC
Don Killian
LCMHC, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
My counseling approach is person centered where the individual is encouraged to explore all facets of their life to identify those areas that are out of balance due to either inner disruptive forces such as trauma, anxiety, depression or outer disruptive forces such as interpersonal conflict or substance use.
I am a dedicated and experienced therapist with 23 years of licensure, committed to providing compassionate support and guidance to individuals seeking help. I find immense joy in assisting others on their journey towards healing and personal growth. Through a collaborative and client-centered approach, I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their emotions, navigate challenges, and discover their inner strength. With a deep understanding of various therapeutic modalities, I am equipped to tailor my interventions to meet the unique needs of each client.
My counseling approach is person centered where the individual is encouraged to explore all facets of their life to identify those areas that are out of balance due to either inner disruptive forces such as trauma, anxiety, depression or outer disruptive forces such as interpersonal conflict or substance use.
I am a dedicated and experienced therapist with 23 years of licensure, committed to providing compassionate support and guidance to individuals seeking help. I find immense joy in assisting others on their journey towards healing and personal growth. Through a collaborative and client-centered approach, I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their emotions, navigate challenges, and discover their inner strength. With a deep understanding of various therapeutic modalities, I am equipped to tailor my interventions to meet the unique needs of each client.
(828) 532-2093 View (828) 532-2093
Photo of Julie G. Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lincoln County, NC
Julie G. Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Mooresville, NC 28117
YES! Accepting new clients. YES! I accept insurance. I have over 14 years of experience in the mental health field and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use issues. I also have extensive experience helping clients explore underlying core beliefs that impact both their self-esteem and many of their relationships. I am nationally certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (commonly referred to as CBT), which is extremely effective for individuals who need to quickly learn skills and techniques to reduce symptoms.
YES! Accepting new clients. YES! I accept insurance. I have over 14 years of experience in the mental health field and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use issues. I also have extensive experience helping clients explore underlying core beliefs that impact both their self-esteem and many of their relationships. I am nationally certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (commonly referred to as CBT), which is extremely effective for individuals who need to quickly learn skills and techniques to reduce symptoms.
(704) 459-8603 View (704) 459-8603
Photo of Zach Saint, LCSW Associate in Lincoln County, 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 Yvonne C. Oree, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lincoln County, NC
Yvonne C. Oree
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, SAP
Verified Verified
Gastonia, NC 28054  (Online Only)
Having peace of mind and finding serenity is a priority for most people. In life we all face challenges that interrupt that peace. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working in the fields of Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders helping individuals and families return to that peaceful state. My virtual office is a calm, relaxing, judgment free atmosphere. Together, we will use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and other Evidence Based Therapies, to find solutions for whatever difficulties you might be encountering.
Having peace of mind and finding serenity is a priority for most people. In life we all face challenges that interrupt that peace. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working in the fields of Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders helping individuals and families return to that peaceful state. My virtual office is a calm, relaxing, judgment free atmosphere. Together, we will use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and other Evidence Based Therapies, to find solutions for whatever difficulties you might be encountering.
(980) 414-8329 View (980) 414-8329
Photo of Peta Davis, Professional Counselor Associate in Lincoln County, NC
Peta Davis
Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28206  (Online Only)
Hello there! I am a licensed professional counselor associate (LPCA) in the state of Connecticut. I currently work for Wellness for the Culture. Most of my experience is with youth and families that struggle with anxiety, depression, self esteem, substance use, family conflict, school issues, juvenile issues, etc.
Hello there! I am a licensed professional counselor associate (LPCA) in the state of Connecticut. I currently work for Wellness for the Culture. Most of my experience is with youth and families that struggle with anxiety, depression, self esteem, substance use, family conflict, school issues, juvenile issues, etc.
(860) 851-4798 View (860) 851-4798
Photo of Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Lincoln County, 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 Mountain Lotus Therapy Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lincoln County, NC
Mountain Lotus Therapy Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
My specialty areas include substance use and/or dependency, transitions in life, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship, etc.
** Christian Counseling ** My professional experience has been working with adolescents, college students, adults, working on various issues, and wanting someone to help them in the journey. No one lives life without going through something that makes them question whether they can work through it on their own. This is the very place God has for us to come to him and his strength. I have personally experienced a few of these, and have been given a calling for helping others in theirs. My practice aims to shine light on the purpose we have on this earth, and walking with you to uncover the roots of why you struggle.
My specialty areas include substance use and/or dependency, transitions in life, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship, etc.
** Christian Counseling ** My professional experience has been working with adolescents, college students, adults, working on various issues, and wanting someone to help them in the journey. No one lives life without going through something that makes them question whether they can work through it on their own. This is the very place God has for us to come to him and his strength. I have personally experienced a few of these, and have been given a calling for helping others in theirs. My practice aims to shine light on the purpose we have on this earth, and walking with you to uncover the roots of why you struggle.
(828) 457-8757 View (828) 457-8757

See more therapy options for Lincoln County

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.