Substance Use Therapists in New York

Photo of Stacy Messmer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Stacy Messmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Commack, NY 11725  (Online Only)
Substance use is a family issue. It affects the individual, their partners, family and friends. I have dedicated my career to working with substance users and their loved ones. I have been working for over 20 years in this realm teaching other therapists and counselors how to work with this challenging disease. Currently I am the Clinical Director of Seafield Services in Mineola. I am an Associate Therapist at Michelle Listens LCSW, P.C. If you and/or your loved ones are seeking therapy please contact me today for a free consult and we’ll get started on our journey together.
Substance use is a family issue. It affects the individual, their partners, family and friends. I have dedicated my career to working with substance users and their loved ones. I have been working for over 20 years in this realm teaching other therapists and counselors how to work with this challenging disease. Currently I am the Clinical Director of Seafield Services in Mineola. I am an Associate Therapist at Michelle Listens LCSW, P.C. If you and/or your loved ones are seeking therapy please contact me today for a free consult and we’ll get started on our journey together.
(631) 503-2678 View (631) 503-2678
Photo of Lauren Mongiori, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Lauren Mongiori
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pearl River, NY 10965  (Online Only)
I have experience working with substance use disorders, and mental health difficulties of anxiety, trauma, mood dysregulation, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, stress management, and life transitions.
Welcome! My goal is providing individuals a sense of safety in healing through offering a space to grow and to understand the impact of life experiences. I am passionate in promoting self-care through self-understanding and supporting individuals in developing healthier coping strategies to manage past and current life stressors. I believe highlighting one's strengths through adversities is valuable in healing. I utilize evidence-based practices and interventions of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and a Strength-Based, Trauma-Informed, Person-Centered approach to assist individuals in attaining their goals.
I have experience working with substance use disorders, and mental health difficulties of anxiety, trauma, mood dysregulation, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, stress management, and life transitions.
Welcome! My goal is providing individuals a sense of safety in healing through offering a space to grow and to understand the impact of life experiences. I am passionate in promoting self-care through self-understanding and supporting individuals in developing healthier coping strategies to manage past and current life stressors. I believe highlighting one's strengths through adversities is valuable in healing. I utilize evidence-based practices and interventions of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and a Strength-Based, Trauma-Informed, Person-Centered approach to assist individuals in attaining their goals.
(845) 393-2644 View (845) 393-2644
Photo of Sarah M Fiore in New York
Sarah M Fiore
LMHC-LP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hicksville, NY 11801  (Online Only)
Specialized in working with individuals who struggle with Eating Disorders, Substance Use Disorders and co-occurring disorders, such as PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality disorder, Suicide ideation, and self -injurious behaviors.
Focus on the step in front of you, not the whole staircase. Do you feel hopeless and trapped in an unhealthy cycle? Do you struggle with being trapped in a self-destructive cycle, due to life experiences that influenced your present day thoughts and perceptions about yourself? Are you someone struggling with an eating disorder or an addiction? When working with me, you don’t have to fix your problems overnight nor feel ashamed of where you are in your recovery. We will focus on the small steps needed to get you closer to where you want to be. Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step.
Specialized in working with individuals who struggle with Eating Disorders, Substance Use Disorders and co-occurring disorders, such as PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality disorder, Suicide ideation, and self -injurious behaviors.
Focus on the step in front of you, not the whole staircase. Do you feel hopeless and trapped in an unhealthy cycle? Do you struggle with being trapped in a self-destructive cycle, due to life experiences that influenced your present day thoughts and perceptions about yourself? Are you someone struggling with an eating disorder or an addiction? When working with me, you don’t have to fix your problems overnight nor feel ashamed of where you are in your recovery. We will focus on the small steps needed to get you closer to where you want to be. Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step.
(516) 701-3471 View (516) 701-3471
Photo of Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling PLLC, Counselor in New York
Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jamaica, NY 11412
Waitlist for new clients
Our services include individual/couples/family and grief counseling, ACS-accredited parenting groups, anger management, domestic violence, crisis intervention, substance use treatment, and trauma-informed therapy.
These past two years have been difficult and everyone needs a safe place to talk about how they feel. Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling provides that safe place. We are dedicated, licensed professions who want to help you get through these difficult times and adjust to the new normal. Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling provides compassionate, professional counseling services from Therapists dedicated to helping you heal and grow. We are a grass roots practice with courteous staff and affordable pricing.
Our services include individual/couples/family and grief counseling, ACS-accredited parenting groups, anger management, domestic violence, crisis intervention, substance use treatment, and trauma-informed therapy.
These past two years have been difficult and everyone needs a safe place to talk about how they feel. Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling provides that safe place. We are dedicated, licensed professions who want to help you get through these difficult times and adjust to the new normal. Talk It Out Mental Health Counseling provides compassionate, professional counseling services from Therapists dedicated to helping you heal and grow. We are a grass roots practice with courteous staff and affordable pricing.
(718) 790-4538 View (718) 790-4538
Photo of Caitlyn Bial, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Caitlyn Bial
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Islip, NY 11795
Hello! I am a Licensed Master Social Worker! My training includes a strength based approach when working with her clients. I have various experience working with adolescents, families, and adults. My therapy approach is providing evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. I have had experience working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, substance use disorders, trauma, and family issues.
Hello! I am a Licensed Master Social Worker! My training includes a strength based approach when working with her clients. I have various experience working with adolescents, families, and adults. My therapy approach is providing evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. I have had experience working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, substance use disorders, trauma, and family issues.
(631) 529-4919 View (631) 529-4919
Photo of Erin Marra, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Erin Marra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Erin Marra, LCSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10601
Hello! My name is Erin Marra and I am here to help. You may be in crisis or wishing you felt better. You'd like to figure out what's in the way and how to move forward. I have helped people with a wide range of obstacles, including stress, challenging transitions, and general feelings of being stuck. Some of my clients struggle with substance use and I provide support in abstinence or harm reduction.
Hello! My name is Erin Marra and I am here to help. You may be in crisis or wishing you felt better. You'd like to figure out what's in the way and how to move forward. I have helped people with a wide range of obstacles, including stress, challenging transitions, and general feelings of being stuck. Some of my clients struggle with substance use and I provide support in abstinence or harm reduction.
(914) 342-7346 View (914) 342-7346
Photo of Maribeth Lowe in New York
Maribeth Lowe
LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10028  (Online Only)
I have worked with an array of clients over the years which include focuses in anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, and crisis stabilization.
My goal is to create a safe space for my clients on their journey to personal growth and healing. I believe that everyone's story is unique to them and will develop a personalized approach for each client using evidence based treatment.
I have worked with an array of clients over the years which include focuses in anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, and crisis stabilization.
My goal is to create a safe space for my clients on their journey to personal growth and healing. I believe that everyone's story is unique to them and will develop a personalized approach for each client using evidence based treatment.
(646) 362-7435 View (646) 362-7435
Photo of Family Addiction Specialist, Counselor in New York
Family Addiction Specialist
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
Family Addiction Specialist is a boutique concierge practice in New York, NY (with offices in Midtown Manhattan or Brooklyn Heights, as well as an undisclosed office in the Upper East Side to ensure the highest level of privacy) where high-net-worth clients and their families struggling with substance use disorders, behavioral addictions, depression, anxiety, insomnia, complex family dynamics and conflicts, and other emotional and life issues receive impeccable support and guidance. In addition to talk therapy, the firm also utilizes coaching, hypnotherapy and Neurolinguistic Programing when deemed to be appropriate and beneficial.
Family Addiction Specialist is a boutique concierge practice in New York, NY (with offices in Midtown Manhattan or Brooklyn Heights, as well as an undisclosed office in the Upper East Side to ensure the highest level of privacy) where high-net-worth clients and their families struggling with substance use disorders, behavioral addictions, depression, anxiety, insomnia, complex family dynamics and conflicts, and other emotional and life issues receive impeccable support and guidance. In addition to talk therapy, the firm also utilizes coaching, hypnotherapy and Neurolinguistic Programing when deemed to be appropriate and beneficial.
(347) 673-0642 View (347) 673-0642
Photo of Santos Vales, Psychologist in New York
Santos Vales
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11231  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples and families confronting issues of depression, anxiety, stress, relationship problems, loss, parenting issues, aging, trauma and alcohol/substance use.
Life experiences can bring pain and conflict resulting in depression, anxiety and coping with substances. I frequently hear the expression of loneliness, emptiness and feeling unfulfilled in people's lives and the sadness, disappointment and anger over relationships with themselves, partners, family and friends that fail to satisfy those needs. Experience has taught me that feeling heard and understood generates a sense of hope and stimulates movement toward insight through exploration and examination of one's inner life. Psychodynamic psychotherapy offers the framework and space for this work, leading to corrective emotional experiences and a more satisfying life and relationships.
I work with individuals, couples and families confronting issues of depression, anxiety, stress, relationship problems, loss, parenting issues, aging, trauma and alcohol/substance use.
Life experiences can bring pain and conflict resulting in depression, anxiety and coping with substances. I frequently hear the expression of loneliness, emptiness and feeling unfulfilled in people's lives and the sadness, disappointment and anger over relationships with themselves, partners, family and friends that fail to satisfy those needs. Experience has taught me that feeling heard and understood generates a sense of hope and stimulates movement toward insight through exploration and examination of one's inner life. Psychodynamic psychotherapy offers the framework and space for this work, leading to corrective emotional experiences and a more satisfying life and relationships.
(718) 757-2073 View (718) 757-2073
Photo of Indie M Cusack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Indie M Cusack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11225  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with difficult family dynamics or a lack of support from your environment? Are you finding that the tools that you have turned to cope, like substance use and avoidance, has taken hold of your life? Are you feeling exhausted or constrained by treatment that sees your experience as a disease and dispenses formulaic solutions? You are not your symptoms and you deserve care from someone who wants to join you, sees you as the multi-layered complex person you are and supports your vision of healing in mind.
Are you struggling with difficult family dynamics or a lack of support from your environment? Are you finding that the tools that you have turned to cope, like substance use and avoidance, has taken hold of your life? Are you feeling exhausted or constrained by treatment that sees your experience as a disease and dispenses formulaic solutions? You are not your symptoms and you deserve care from someone who wants to join you, sees you as the multi-layered complex person you are and supports your vision of healing in mind.
(347) 514-8197 View (347) 514-8197
Photo of Rena Blatt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Rena Blatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11367  (Online Only)
I work with individuals and families to provide services for those struggling with anxiety, substance use, self- harm, depression, trauma, and life transitions.
Life can be overwhelming; why go through it alone?! I can help you live a life that excites and invigorates you. I work with you to create an individualized plan based on your needs. You have the tools to succeed in life, and working together we can discover them, as I view my clients as partners in the healing process. Reaching out for help is the first and hardest step leading you in the right direction. Looking forward to hearing from you!
I work with individuals and families to provide services for those struggling with anxiety, substance use, self- harm, depression, trauma, and life transitions.
Life can be overwhelming; why go through it alone?! I can help you live a life that excites and invigorates you. I work with you to create an individualized plan based on your needs. You have the tools to succeed in life, and working together we can discover them, as I view my clients as partners in the healing process. Reaching out for help is the first and hardest step leading you in the right direction. Looking forward to hearing from you!
(347) 767-2926 View (347) 767-2926
Photo of Voski Hovsepian, Psychologist in New York
Voski Hovsepian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10018
I have experience working with people struggling with substance use issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, relationship issues, and more.
My work with individuals begins with establishing an emotionally safe space in which we can explore what brings you into therapy. We then tailor our work to your specific issues and needs, be they contemporary stressors or long standing vestiges of the past -- or both. We may discover core conflicts, psychic remnants of past relationships and experiences, that contribute to your current symptoms or show up in your life as self-defeating patterns in your relationships. Re-working these past struggles can help release you from feeling emotionally trapped, so that you have greater freedom and authorship in your life.
I have experience working with people struggling with substance use issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, relationship issues, and more.
My work with individuals begins with establishing an emotionally safe space in which we can explore what brings you into therapy. We then tailor our work to your specific issues and needs, be they contemporary stressors or long standing vestiges of the past -- or both. We may discover core conflicts, psychic remnants of past relationships and experiences, that contribute to your current symptoms or show up in your life as self-defeating patterns in your relationships. Re-working these past struggles can help release you from feeling emotionally trapped, so that you have greater freedom and authorship in your life.
(646) 980-3969 View (646) 980-3969
Photo of Dr. Carly Schwartzman, Psychologist in New York
Dr. Carly Schwartzman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Latham, NY 12110
Hi all! Thank you so much for visiting my page! I really enjoy working with adults and couples of diverse cultural backgrounds and identities. I typically work best with folks who are looking for help with emotional difficulties (anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, grief), relationship issues, and substance use issues. I also welcome clients hoping to explore their gender, sexuality, and relationships involving nonmonogamy and polyamory. I am available for both individual and couple therapy, in-person or virtually!
Hi all! Thank you so much for visiting my page! I really enjoy working with adults and couples of diverse cultural backgrounds and identities. I typically work best with folks who are looking for help with emotional difficulties (anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, grief), relationship issues, and substance use issues. I also welcome clients hoping to explore their gender, sexuality, and relationships involving nonmonogamy and polyamory. I am available for both individual and couple therapy, in-person or virtually!
(518) 975-3027 View (518) 975-3027
Photo of Arthur Cardinale, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Arthur Cardinale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10023
I specialize in working with people who have substance use disorders. I have worked with clients in all stages of their addiction treatment such as detox, inpatient and outpatient rehab, as well as sober living homes in NYC. I have also conducted multiple interventions to help clients enter inpatient treatment programs. My ambition is to help people recover and lead productive and fulfilling lives.
I specialize in working with people who have substance use disorders. I have worked with clients in all stages of their addiction treatment such as detox, inpatient and outpatient rehab, as well as sober living homes in NYC. I have also conducted multiple interventions to help clients enter inpatient treatment programs. My ambition is to help people recover and lead productive and fulfilling lives.
(917) 525-3348 View (917) 525-3348
Photo of Yumnah S Saad, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Yumnah S Saad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, QMHP, SIFI
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10027  (Online Only)
Specializing in trauma-informed care that is person-centered and strengths-focused, I believe in taking a collaborative and compassionate approach to counseling in an effort to ensure you feel seen, heard, & most importantly, validated. As a BIPOC clinician, I specialize in helping you navigate cultural and spiritual-related internal conflicts as well as various adversities and life transitions. I also have extensive experience treating substance use disorders seen through a harm reduction-focused lens.
Specializing in trauma-informed care that is person-centered and strengths-focused, I believe in taking a collaborative and compassionate approach to counseling in an effort to ensure you feel seen, heard, & most importantly, validated. As a BIPOC clinician, I specialize in helping you navigate cultural and spiritual-related internal conflicts as well as various adversities and life transitions. I also have extensive experience treating substance use disorders seen through a harm reduction-focused lens.
(347) 751-6615 View (347) 751-6615
Photo of Kevin Braga, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Kevin Braga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
While I work with a wide array of mental health issues, my specific areas of expertise and interest include: Alcohol and Substance use; Personality Disorders; Depression and Anxiety; Psychedelic Integration and Psychoeducation; & LGBTQ+ community and specific issues relating to the LGBTQ+ experience, Grief and Loss, and Young Adult populations.
Maintaining a strong and trusting bond between client and therapist forms the cornerstone of effective therapy. In my practice, I strive to create a secure and welcoming environment where you feel comfortable discussing matters that might be challenging to address elsewhere. My expertise lies in assisting individuals grappling with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and concerns about alcohol and substance use. Although my therapeutic approach is tailored to your individual goals, my training is rooted in Relational/Psycho-dynamic, Dialectical Cognitive Behavioral, and Motivational Enhancement Therapies.
While I work with a wide array of mental health issues, my specific areas of expertise and interest include: Alcohol and Substance use; Personality Disorders; Depression and Anxiety; Psychedelic Integration and Psychoeducation; & LGBTQ+ community and specific issues relating to the LGBTQ+ experience, Grief and Loss, and Young Adult populations.
Maintaining a strong and trusting bond between client and therapist forms the cornerstone of effective therapy. In my practice, I strive to create a secure and welcoming environment where you feel comfortable discussing matters that might be challenging to address elsewhere. My expertise lies in assisting individuals grappling with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and concerns about alcohol and substance use. Although my therapeutic approach is tailored to your individual goals, my training is rooted in Relational/Psycho-dynamic, Dialectical Cognitive Behavioral, and Motivational Enhancement Therapies.
(929) 547-9881 View (929) 547-9881
Photo of Jennifer L Smith, Psychologist in New York
Jennifer L Smith
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017
I'm a clinical psychologist at Wholeview Wellness. A group practice in NYC. I am one of several doctors here devoted to providing advanced treatment for mental health and substance use issues. I focus on helping my clients understand why they engage in self-defeating behaviors and why they make choices that don’t fit with their goals and values. With this understanding, we then shift focus to figuring out how to live their life on life's terms and how to use healthier coping strategies. I use various therapeutic interventions including mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
I'm a clinical psychologist at Wholeview Wellness. A group practice in NYC. I am one of several doctors here devoted to providing advanced treatment for mental health and substance use issues. I focus on helping my clients understand why they engage in self-defeating behaviors and why they make choices that don’t fit with their goals and values. With this understanding, we then shift focus to figuring out how to live their life on life's terms and how to use healthier coping strategies. I use various therapeutic interventions including mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
(646) 916-4576 View (646) 916-4576
Photo of Jessica Gelfand, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Jessica Gelfand
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10009
Hello! I'm Jessica, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working in New York State. I specialize in working with adults with a range of concerns from serious mental health diagnoses to addiction, to anxiety and relationship concerns. I typically work with adults dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, and/or PTSD. I'm happy to discuss diagnoses and conditions not listed as well. I work with individuals of all gender identities, as well as everyone across the LGBTIQA+ spectrum.
Hello! I'm Jessica, I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) working in New York State. I specialize in working with adults with a range of concerns from serious mental health diagnoses to addiction, to anxiety and relationship concerns. I typically work with adults dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, and/or PTSD. I'm happy to discuss diagnoses and conditions not listed as well. I work with individuals of all gender identities, as well as everyone across the LGBTIQA+ spectrum.
(332) 900-4104 View (332) 900-4104
Photo of Jason Stark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Jason Stark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ithaca, NY 14850
I have extensive experience with issues related to substance use, domestic violence, anger management, depression and anxiety.
Offering COUPLES and individual counseling. In the 20+ years of being a therapist, I have had the honor of being able to witness clients taking more control over their lives, emotions and thoughts. I take a curious approach to connecting with clients and their suffering. Through my work experiences I have helped clients navigate a wide range of personal problems and disorders. I greatly value the connection to people and spend considerable time building a therapeutic relationship. This genuine connection is how we can create a safe space together. I take an eclectic approach as no one size fits all when it comes to therapy.
I have extensive experience with issues related to substance use, domestic violence, anger management, depression and anxiety.
Offering COUPLES and individual counseling. In the 20+ years of being a therapist, I have had the honor of being able to witness clients taking more control over their lives, emotions and thoughts. I take a curious approach to connecting with clients and their suffering. Through my work experiences I have helped clients navigate a wide range of personal problems and disorders. I greatly value the connection to people and spend considerable time building a therapeutic relationship. This genuine connection is how we can create a safe space together. I take an eclectic approach as no one size fits all when it comes to therapy.
(607) 600-8912 View (607) 600-8912
Photo of DWI Substance Abuse Assessment NYS Oasas, Counselor in New York
DWI Substance Abuse Assessment NYS Oasas
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC, SAP, DOT
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11235
I am NY State OASAS certified to conduct DWI /DUI Screening and Assessment, and Substance Use Assessment for courts.
If you were involved in DWI (driving while intoxicated) or DUI ( driving while impaired) I will perform your screening or assessment according NYS OASAS guidelines carefully reviewing all circumstances leading to violations. If you a DOT driver who violated DOT rules, I will guide through DOT process to help to return to work as soon as possible. I speak English and Russian.
I am NY State OASAS certified to conduct DWI /DUI Screening and Assessment, and Substance Use Assessment for courts.
If you were involved in DWI (driving while intoxicated) or DUI ( driving while impaired) I will perform your screening or assessment according NYS OASAS guidelines carefully reviewing all circumstances leading to violations. If you a DOT driver who violated DOT rules, I will guide through DOT process to help to return to work as soon as possible. I speak English and Russian.
(844) 593-0575 View (844) 593-0575
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.