Substance Use Therapists in Coos County, NH

Photo of Jeannette Hook, LCMHC, MLADC, Counselor
Jeannette Hook
Counselor, LCMHC, MLADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, NH 03584  (Online Only)
As a LCMHC & MLADC, I provide specialized counseling for pre-teen, teens, adults (12-65+), individuals, and couples facing mental health issues, substance use, and co-occurring disorders.
Depression, anxiety, trauma and substance use can leave you feeling lost and alone. As an experienced and passionate licensed mental health counselor and master licensed alcohol and drug counselor, I understand the challenges and fears you may be facing. My approach combines motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy, anchored in a person-centered, solution-focused framework. Whether you're seeking individual or couples support, I'm here to guide you toward recovery and empowerment. Let's work together to find the path that leads you back to yourself. Reach out today to start your healing journey.
As a LCMHC & MLADC, I provide specialized counseling for pre-teen, teens, adults (12-65+), individuals, and couples facing mental health issues, substance use, and co-occurring disorders.
Depression, anxiety, trauma and substance use can leave you feeling lost and alone. As an experienced and passionate licensed mental health counselor and master licensed alcohol and drug counselor, I understand the challenges and fears you may be facing. My approach combines motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy, anchored in a person-centered, solution-focused framework. Whether you're seeking individual or couples support, I'm here to guide you toward recovery and empowerment. Let's work together to find the path that leads you back to yourself. Reach out today to start your healing journey.
(603) 605-8495 View (603) 605-8495
Photo of Dave Ferruolo - LifeWorks Counseling Associates, PLLC, LICSW, MLADC, EdD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LifeWorks Counseling Associates, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MLADC, EdD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berlin, NH 03570  (Online Only)
At LifeWorks Counseling Associates, we understand the diverse needs of individuals across all ages and genders. Our Evidenced-Based Televideo/Online counseling is tailored to help you navigate through challenges like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addictions. As patient-centered, solution-focused clinicians, our goal is to collaborate with you in creating a life that works. Your best interest is at the heart of our practice. Ready to start? Call us today!
At LifeWorks Counseling Associates, we understand the diverse needs of individuals across all ages and genders. Our Evidenced-Based Televideo/Online counseling is tailored to help you navigate through challenges like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addictions. As patient-centered, solution-focused clinicians, our goal is to collaborate with you in creating a life that works. Your best interest is at the heart of our practice. Ready to start? Call us today!
(603) 255-5072 View (603) 255-5072
Photo of Tina Marie Tarryk - Mobile Counseling & Consultation, Inc., PhD(c), MS MHC, CH, Registered Psychotherapist
Mobile Counseling & Consultation, Inc.
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD(c), MS MHC, CH
Verified Verified
Colebrook, NH 03576  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer only virtual and confidential counseling and consultation services for individuals and couples. I will assist you with strategies that help you to; improve communication skills, strengthen interpersonal relationships, lift depression, relieve anxiety, reduce an overload of accumulating stress, and eliminate self-sabotaging habits. I pull from over 25 years of lived and practical experience as a Mental Health Counselor, spiritual advisor and certified hypnotherapist.
I offer only virtual and confidential counseling and consultation services for individuals and couples. I will assist you with strategies that help you to; improve communication skills, strengthen interpersonal relationships, lift depression, relieve anxiety, reduce an overload of accumulating stress, and eliminate self-sabotaging habits. I pull from over 25 years of lived and practical experience as a Mental Health Counselor, spiritual advisor and certified hypnotherapist.
(603) 847-7169 View (603) 847-7169
Photo of Katarina Kadar, MA, CMHC, LCPC-C, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katarina Kadar
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CMHC, LCPC-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colebrook, NH 03576  (Online Only)
Katarina is an experienced mental health clinician, case manager, and CPS worker, giving her a broad spectrum of experiences. She works with children, adults, and families from varying cultures and backgrounds and a variety of mental health and social issues. Katarina particularly enjoys integrating holistic and alternative healing methods into evidenced-based counseling approaches, including visualization, energy work, meditation and mindfulness-based skills.  She enjoys working with individuals who seek to learn more about themselves and have the desire to learn, grow, and evolve.
Katarina is an experienced mental health clinician, case manager, and CPS worker, giving her a broad spectrum of experiences. She works with children, adults, and families from varying cultures and backgrounds and a variety of mental health and social issues. Katarina particularly enjoys integrating holistic and alternative healing methods into evidenced-based counseling approaches, including visualization, energy work, meditation and mindfulness-based skills.  She enjoys working with individuals who seek to learn more about themselves and have the desire to learn, grow, and evolve.
(603) 836-8549 View (603) 836-8549
Photo of Dave Ferruolo, MSW, LICSW, MLADC, EdD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dave Ferruolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, MLADC, EdD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colebrook, NH 03576  (Online Only)
Struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or addictions? Discover personalized care with Dr. Dave through online telehealth counseling. My approach, focused on your unique needs, offers effective solutions for your challenges. Together, we'll create a plan tailored to your situation in a patient-centered, solution-focused manner. Embrace a journey towards well-being from your own space.
Struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or addictions? Discover personalized care with Dr. Dave through online telehealth counseling. My approach, focused on your unique needs, offers effective solutions for your challenges. Together, we'll create a plan tailored to your situation in a patient-centered, solution-focused manner. Embrace a journey towards well-being from your own space.
(603) 606-9616 View (603) 606-9616
Photo of Alicia J. Porkka, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alicia J. Porkka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berlin, NH 03570  (Online Only)
In our moments of quiet reflection, which are often fleeting in today's fast-paced world, we may find ourselves listening to an inner monologue that is in limbo. Perhaps you feel there is no time to sort through all of your thoughts and feelings, and you're stuck in "go-mode", juggling the day to day but not living your life to the fullest. This stress may manifest as substance misuse, relationship conflict, avoidance, feeling "numb", neglecting one's self-care, work or school problems, parenting challenges, and more. These challenges, if the origins are not understood, can reinforce feelings of failure and self-doubt.
In our moments of quiet reflection, which are often fleeting in today's fast-paced world, we may find ourselves listening to an inner monologue that is in limbo. Perhaps you feel there is no time to sort through all of your thoughts and feelings, and you're stuck in "go-mode", juggling the day to day but not living your life to the fullest. This stress may manifest as substance misuse, relationship conflict, avoidance, feeling "numb", neglecting one's self-care, work or school problems, parenting challenges, and more. These challenges, if the origins are not understood, can reinforce feelings of failure and self-doubt.
(603) 545-9386 View (603) 545-9386

Online Therapists

Photo of Innate Therapeutic Services, MLADC, LADC, LICSW, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Innate Therapeutic Services
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MLADC, LADC, LICSW
Verified Verified
Franklin, NH 03235
Innate Therapeutic Services offers state of the art approaches to evaluate and treat substance use disorders and mental health concerns. We are staffed with a MLADC, LADC, and an LICSW to address any needs. Our clinicians provide initial assessments, facilitate individual and group therapy, complete LADC evaluations, and coordinate client services. We offer an Intensive Outpatient Program that can work with your work schedule. We have NH approved Impaired Driver Service Providers for those convicted of DUI/DWI and in need of aftercare. Call (603) 671-7045 to schedule an intake to see how we can help you today!
Innate Therapeutic Services offers state of the art approaches to evaluate and treat substance use disorders and mental health concerns. We are staffed with a MLADC, LADC, and an LICSW to address any needs. Our clinicians provide initial assessments, facilitate individual and group therapy, complete LADC evaluations, and coordinate client services. We offer an Intensive Outpatient Program that can work with your work schedule. We have NH approved Impaired Driver Service Providers for those convicted of DUI/DWI and in need of aftercare. Call (603) 671-7045 to schedule an intake to see how we can help you today!
(603) 671-7045 View (603) 671-7045
Photo of Nancy Davis, LMHC, Counselor
Nancy Davis
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Concord, NH 03301
My name is Nancy Davis and I am a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Clinician. I am based in new Hampshire and work with clients statewide. I work with adults, specializing in substance use disorders, relapse prevention, anxiety and depression, relationships, and communication. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing to help my clients make progress and start feeling like themselves again.
My name is Nancy Davis and I am a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Clinician. I am based in new Hampshire and work with clients statewide. I work with adults, specializing in substance use disorders, relapse prevention, anxiety and depression, relationships, and communication. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing to help my clients make progress and start feeling like themselves again.
(855) 709-5872 View (855) 709-5872
Photo of Emily Pavick, LCSW, MFA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Pavick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFA
Verified Verified
Rollinsford, NH 03869
Specialty areas include Anxiety, Depression, Substance Use/Addiction, ADHD, Bipolar, BPD, Mood Dysregulation and PTSD/Trauma.
I am currently accepting new clients through Cardinal North Wellness, where I can meet you via Telehealth or in person. I've worked as a clinician for more than 6 years, and as yoga teacher for more than 15 years. I am experienced working with adults, as well as with college students as a former writing professor. I work with individuals who struggle with Mental Health/Behavioral Health problems as well as those seeking support with Life Balance, Goal Setting, Coping Skills, Boundaries, and Communication. I value meeting you where you're at today, in order to support you in accomplishing your personal goals.
Specialty areas include Anxiety, Depression, Substance Use/Addiction, ADHD, Bipolar, BPD, Mood Dysregulation and PTSD/Trauma.
I am currently accepting new clients through Cardinal North Wellness, where I can meet you via Telehealth or in person. I've worked as a clinician for more than 6 years, and as yoga teacher for more than 15 years. I am experienced working with adults, as well as with college students as a former writing professor. I work with individuals who struggle with Mental Health/Behavioral Health problems as well as those seeking support with Life Balance, Goal Setting, Coping Skills, Boundaries, and Communication. I value meeting you where you're at today, in order to support you in accomplishing your personal goals.
(603) 605-4215 View (603) 605-4215
Photo of Shawna Delworth, LCMHC, MLADC, ADS, Counselor
Shawna Delworth
Counselor, LCMHC, MLADC, ADS
Verified Verified
Woodsville, NH 03785
(Currently Not Accepting New Clients) I provide counseling to people with a range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, chronic pain, PTSD and substance use. I work with clients who are age 14 and older, I enjoy working with people of all ages. My interest in non-invasive techniques and complimentary treatments would likely be attractive to patients with similar interests. I believe that patients have the ability heal their own struggles and my role is to provide support and guidance to patients as they go through this journey.
(Currently Not Accepting New Clients) I provide counseling to people with a range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, chronic pain, PTSD and substance use. I work with clients who are age 14 and older, I enjoy working with people of all ages. My interest in non-invasive techniques and complimentary treatments would likely be attractive to patients with similar interests. I believe that patients have the ability heal their own struggles and my role is to provide support and guidance to patients as they go through this journey.
(833) 590-0097 View (833) 590-0097
Photo of Dr. Stephen Gibson, PharmD, BCPP, RPH, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Stephen Gibson
Pre-Licensed Professional, PharmD, BCPP, RPH
Verified Verified
Concord, NH 03301
If you are looking for a practice to provide psychotherapy and medication management, we are a good fit for you, specializing in mental health and co-occurring substance use disorders.
Hello, I'm Stephen, a Doctor of Pharmacy, and I earned my PharmD at MCPHS University. I am Board Certified Psychiatric Pharmacist (BCPP), 1 of 6 in the state of NH. I am the founder and Director of Psychopharmacology at Comprehensive Collaborative Care. Mental health and substance abuse are deeply personal for me due to a tragic loss—my older brother fell victim to Depression and Opioid Use Disorder. I've committed my career to mental health and substance abuse, with a focus on minimizing polypharmacy and adverse drug effects. If you are struggling with finding the correct medication regiment for you, our practice is here for you.
If you are looking for a practice to provide psychotherapy and medication management, we are a good fit for you, specializing in mental health and co-occurring substance use disorders.
Hello, I'm Stephen, a Doctor of Pharmacy, and I earned my PharmD at MCPHS University. I am Board Certified Psychiatric Pharmacist (BCPP), 1 of 6 in the state of NH. I am the founder and Director of Psychopharmacology at Comprehensive Collaborative Care. Mental health and substance abuse are deeply personal for me due to a tragic loss—my older brother fell victim to Depression and Opioid Use Disorder. I've committed my career to mental health and substance abuse, with a focus on minimizing polypharmacy and adverse drug effects. If you are struggling with finding the correct medication regiment for you, our practice is here for you.
(855) 676-0968 View (855) 676-0968
Photo of Duane D Drew - Adaptive Integrated Mental Health Services, LCMHC, MLADC, CAMP, CAIMHP, Counselor
Adaptive Integrated Mental Health Services
Counselor, LCMHC, MLADC, CAMP, CAIMHP
Verified Verified
Concord, NH 03301  (Online Only)
Specializing in: Court ordered, Probation ordered, Anger management Evaluations or LADC/MLADC Substance use evaluations.
I am licensed in New Hampshire with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Specializing in: Court ordered, Probation ordered, Anger management Evaluations or LADC/MLADC Substance use evaluations.
I am licensed in New Hampshire with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
View
Photo of Sarah Ziegler, MA, MLADC, MAC, ICAADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Sarah Ziegler
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, MLADC, MAC, ICAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Concord, NH 03301
While the majority of my work is in the area of substance use/misuse and recovery, I also work with individuals in regards to trauma and recovery, and with family members of addicted individuals.
I work with clients from various backgrounds with the belief that people can make the changes in their lives if they have the support and tools to do so. I have a client-centered, strength based approach to treatment to help clients find what they need to live the life that they want. My primary focus is on substance use/misuse, recovery, and any related mental health issues, as well as exploring coping skills, and anger/emotional management. I feel that clients deserve an empathetic therapist that will work closely with them to find strength to overcome life's obstacles.
While the majority of my work is in the area of substance use/misuse and recovery, I also work with individuals in regards to trauma and recovery, and with family members of addicted individuals.
I work with clients from various backgrounds with the belief that people can make the changes in their lives if they have the support and tools to do so. I have a client-centered, strength based approach to treatment to help clients find what they need to live the life that they want. My primary focus is on substance use/misuse, recovery, and any related mental health issues, as well as exploring coping skills, and anger/emotional management. I feel that clients deserve an empathetic therapist that will work closely with them to find strength to overcome life's obstacles.
(603) 556-1604 View (603) 556-1604
Erin Foley
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, MLADC
Verified Verified
New London, NH 03257
I am an EMDR therapist who works with adolescents, adults, and families. I specialize in working with clients who struggle with issues including trauma/PTSD from emotional/physical/sexual abuse, accidents, natural disasters; clients struggling with substance use and recovery, symptoms of anxiety, depression, family violence, etc.
I am an EMDR therapist who works with adolescents, adults, and families. I specialize in working with clients who struggle with issues including trauma/PTSD from emotional/physical/sexual abuse, accidents, natural disasters; clients struggling with substance use and recovery, symptoms of anxiety, depression, family violence, etc.
(603) 583-4403 View (603) 583-4403
Photo of Amy Davies Smith - Fuse Psychotherapy, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Fuse Psychotherapy
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Weare, NH 03281
​ Worried that something you say will be too much? ​ My career started with families involved with DCYF, then inpatient substance use, and then crisis response.
I can't believe I just yelled again, that was never me. My mood swings keep getting in the way of my relationships. I don't want to keep reaching for the bottle, but how else am I supposed to cope? We offer individual and couple's therapy treating substance use, mood, and personality disorders. Tired of feeling like you’re the only one? Try a group therapy session. You’ll be joined by 6-10 other people who are going through the same thing. It’s also a more affordable alternative available during those coveted evening and weekend times.
​ Worried that something you say will be too much? ​ My career started with families involved with DCYF, then inpatient substance use, and then crisis response.
I can't believe I just yelled again, that was never me. My mood swings keep getting in the way of my relationships. I don't want to keep reaching for the bottle, but how else am I supposed to cope? We offer individual and couple's therapy treating substance use, mood, and personality disorders. Tired of feeling like you’re the only one? Try a group therapy session. You’ll be joined by 6-10 other people who are going through the same thing. It’s also a more affordable alternative available during those coveted evening and weekend times.
(844) 517-0969 View (844) 517-0969
Photo of Lindsey Rose, LADC , Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Lindsey Rose
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, NH 03301
The decision to address the self, any form of substance use and the connection they may have can be a hard one and a scary one.
Accepting new clients! Trying to navigate through life stressors, mental health, self-doubt and substance use can be extremely difficult to do alone; and you don't have to. If you find yourself masking interpersonal conflicts, avoiding emotion or suppressing who you are by drinking or using any substances as a way to cope, I can help. Whether you want to stop completely, decrease, refrain from relapsing or simply become mindful is entirely up to you. With zero judgment you can be free to discover who you are, who you're not and who you want to be with me as a guide, an ear to listen, a support.
The decision to address the self, any form of substance use and the connection they may have can be a hard one and a scary one.
Accepting new clients! Trying to navigate through life stressors, mental health, self-doubt and substance use can be extremely difficult to do alone; and you don't have to. If you find yourself masking interpersonal conflicts, avoiding emotion or suppressing who you are by drinking or using any substances as a way to cope, I can help. Whether you want to stop completely, decrease, refrain from relapsing or simply become mindful is entirely up to you. With zero judgment you can be free to discover who you are, who you're not and who you want to be with me as a guide, an ear to listen, a support.
(603) 294-1049 x701 View (603) 294-1049 x701
Photo of Linda Goldstein, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Goldstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, NH 03574  (Online Only)
I welcome LGBTQ+ individuals and couples, and people with substance use disorders.
I have been working as a therapist and clinical supervisor for more than thirty years. I love helping people discover their hidden skills, strengths and values which may have become lost in life’s struggles. Whatever the issue, my job is to assist you in realizing you have the capacity to untangle and manage whatever brings you to my office. My approach involves separating the person from the problem; helping people manage the kinds of negative thoughts we all have which can increase stress, tell us bad things about ourselves, or convince us to do things that are not in our best interest.
I welcome LGBTQ+ individuals and couples, and people with substance use disorders.
I have been working as a therapist and clinical supervisor for more than thirty years. I love helping people discover their hidden skills, strengths and values which may have become lost in life’s struggles. Whatever the issue, my job is to assist you in realizing you have the capacity to untangle and manage whatever brings you to my office. My approach involves separating the person from the problem; helping people manage the kinds of negative thoughts we all have which can increase stress, tell us bad things about ourselves, or convince us to do things that are not in our best interest.
(351) 300-4499 View (351) 300-4499
Photo of Melyssa Manock, MSW, MLADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Melyssa Manock
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, MLADC
Verified Verified
Franklin, NH 03235
I am a Master Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor at an outpatient counseling center, Innate Therapeutic Services located in Franklin, NH. I provide individual and group therapy, complete LADC evaluations, and coordinate client services for those suffering with a substance use disorder and mental health concerns. I am a NH approved Impaired Driver Service Provider and work closely with IDCMPs for those convicted of DUI/DWI. I specialize in new state of the art approaches and have years of experience working with clients from all backgrounds in various stages of recovery. Call (603) 671-7045 to schedule an intake appointment.
I am a Master Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor at an outpatient counseling center, Innate Therapeutic Services located in Franklin, NH. I provide individual and group therapy, complete LADC evaluations, and coordinate client services for those suffering with a substance use disorder and mental health concerns. I am a NH approved Impaired Driver Service Provider and work closely with IDCMPs for those convicted of DUI/DWI. I specialize in new state of the art approaches and have years of experience working with clients from all backgrounds in various stages of recovery. Call (603) 671-7045 to schedule an intake appointment.
(603) 671-7045 View (603) 671-7045
Photo of Gonzalo Cedeño, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gonzalo Cedeño
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dover, NH 03820  (Online Only)
I have experience working with people with substance use disorders, HIV, LGBTQ+, men’s issues, couples, relationships, various mental health concerns, EMDR, amongst other things.
Do you feel confused with where you want to go next in your life? Something from your past that keeps coming up and creating obstacles? Do you want to create some goals and work towards them? Let me help you get to know yourself better, identify coping skills, and help you find your power. With my help, we will get through whatever situation you’re struggling with, and together work towards a solution
I have experience working with people with substance use disorders, HIV, LGBTQ+, men’s issues, couples, relationships, various mental health concerns, EMDR, amongst other things.
Do you feel confused with where you want to go next in your life? Something from your past that keeps coming up and creating obstacles? Do you want to create some goals and work towards them? Let me help you get to know yourself better, identify coping skills, and help you find your power. With my help, we will get through whatever situation you’re struggling with, and together work towards a solution
(603) 661-6450 View (603) 661-6450
Photo of Doris Marie Faughnan - Doris M. Faughnan MLADC, LCMHC, MLADC, LCMHC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Doris M. Faughnan MLADC, LCMHC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MLADC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Lebanon, NH 03766  (Online Only)
I am an MLADC. And LCMHC. I specialize in substance abuse issues with co-occurring disorders disabilities. I am also a certified holistic life coach. I majored in Community Mental Health Counseling. Your well-being is of utmost concern to me. I start with a phone consult and then we can try to set up an Intake. I am available 5 to 7 days a week. I am doing mostly telehealth these days. I am Telehealth certified. I no longer run groups. Whether it's a substance use issue, or a behavioral issue, I can usually fit you in.
I am an MLADC. And LCMHC. I specialize in substance abuse issues with co-occurring disorders disabilities. I am also a certified holistic life coach. I majored in Community Mental Health Counseling. Your well-being is of utmost concern to me. I start with a phone consult and then we can try to set up an Intake. I am available 5 to 7 days a week. I am doing mostly telehealth these days. I am Telehealth certified. I no longer run groups. Whether it's a substance use issue, or a behavioral issue, I can usually fit you in.
(603) 727-4017 View (603) 727-4017

See more therapy options for Coos 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.