Substance Use Therapists in Arlington, VA

Photo of Zach Hocanson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arlington, VA
Zach Hocanson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22203  (Online Only)
I pride myself in a broad bench of modalities which can be used or combined to treat PTSD, Substance Use, Depression and other issues.
With a specialty in PTSD and other trauma related issues, I have effectively treated First Responders, Military and their families. Are you feeling stuck in another time and place? Do past events influence your current life in a way that they shouldn't? Do you or someone you care about suffer from thoughts and physical symptoms which can weigh you down, be overwhelming and impede your life from being the best it can be right now? I work with a broad range of techniques to bring you into the present and rise above issues that may be haunting you.
I pride myself in a broad bench of modalities which can be used or combined to treat PTSD, Substance Use, Depression and other issues.
With a specialty in PTSD and other trauma related issues, I have effectively treated First Responders, Military and their families. Are you feeling stuck in another time and place? Do past events influence your current life in a way that they shouldn't? Do you or someone you care about suffer from thoughts and physical symptoms which can weigh you down, be overwhelming and impede your life from being the best it can be right now? I work with a broad range of techniques to bring you into the present and rise above issues that may be haunting you.
(571) 454-8515 View (571) 454-8515
Photo of Billie Mitzner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arlington, VA
Billie Mitzner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CACI, MBA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22209  (Online Only)
My experience includes providing treatment for 15 years to people struggling with substance use.
I'm licensed in DC and Virginia. My work is with adults experiencing difficult transitions who are trying to cope with the resulting stressors and uncertainties. The goal is to build capacity, make and sustain changes that are meaningful: including changes/losses related to career and relationships, new circumstances such as grief, sexuality, return to school, and retirement. My expertise is in the treatment of issues related addiction/recovery, and the impact on family and significant others. We work together so that you may effectively reengage in your personal and professional life and handle any potential license/clearance
My experience includes providing treatment for 15 years to people struggling with substance use.
I'm licensed in DC and Virginia. My work is with adults experiencing difficult transitions who are trying to cope with the resulting stressors and uncertainties. The goal is to build capacity, make and sustain changes that are meaningful: including changes/losses related to career and relationships, new circumstances such as grief, sexuality, return to school, and retirement. My expertise is in the treatment of issues related addiction/recovery, and the impact on family and significant others. We work together so that you may effectively reengage in your personal and professional life and handle any potential license/clearance
(202) 760-4673 View (202) 760-4673
Photo of Lauren K. Nickum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arlington, VA
Lauren K. Nickum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22204  (Online Only)
I understand that it can be hard to reach out for help, and I am here to listen without judgement and help you move forward. I have over 10 years of experience helping adults and adolescents work thought their struggles with a variety of life issues including anxiety, depression, anger management, life stress, relationship issues, substance use, early recovery from addiction, and life transitions such as separation and divorce, family stress, relationship challenges, and work stress.
I understand that it can be hard to reach out for help, and I am here to listen without judgement and help you move forward. I have over 10 years of experience helping adults and adolescents work thought their struggles with a variety of life issues including anxiety, depression, anger management, life stress, relationship issues, substance use, early recovery from addiction, and life transitions such as separation and divorce, family stress, relationship challenges, and work stress.
(571) 297-1844 View (571) 297-1844
Photo of Massimo Scano, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arlington, VA
Massimo Scano
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAC II , CSAC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22203
After several years in the Italian Navy and then working as a Registered Nurse, I received training in Counseling Psychology and worked for many years in community-based outpatient settings and private practice where I help people address their issues with depression, anxiety, and substance use.
In my practice I am guided by the belief that change is possible and that every person has the capacity for healthy growth and development but may at times need help in accessing inner resources for positive change. I believe a therapist-client relationship that is characterized by empathy, curiosity, acceptance and caring is what facilitates the therapeutic process. I aim to provide an environment where my clients feel safe and free to explore their feelings, thoughts, needs and goals - an environment where we can work together at understanding what is keeping them from living a more fulfilling life.
After several years in the Italian Navy and then working as a Registered Nurse, I received training in Counseling Psychology and worked for many years in community-based outpatient settings and private practice where I help people address their issues with depression, anxiety, and substance use.
In my practice I am guided by the belief that change is possible and that every person has the capacity for healthy growth and development but may at times need help in accessing inner resources for positive change. I believe a therapist-client relationship that is characterized by empathy, curiosity, acceptance and caring is what facilitates the therapeutic process. I aim to provide an environment where my clients feel safe and free to explore their feelings, thoughts, needs and goals - an environment where we can work together at understanding what is keeping them from living a more fulfilling life.
(202) 618-5440 View (202) 618-5440
Photo of Jane Engelken, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arlington, VA
Jane Engelken
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LSATP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22202
I also offer assessment and consultation services for families and individuals struggling with substance use disorders.
People seek counseling for a variety of different reasons. I work with people who are facing a specific stressor which has caused feelings of stress or overwhelm, as well as those who are experiencing more acute or chronic conditions. These might include dealing with family/relationship issues, ongoing anxiety or depression or concern about use of alcohol or other substances. Having been a Counselor for over 20 years , I have had the opportunity to work in a variety behavioral healthcare settings. My experience has informed my approach to counseling which is evidence and strength based, solution focused and compassionate.
I also offer assessment and consultation services for families and individuals struggling with substance use disorders.
People seek counseling for a variety of different reasons. I work with people who are facing a specific stressor which has caused feelings of stress or overwhelm, as well as those who are experiencing more acute or chronic conditions. These might include dealing with family/relationship issues, ongoing anxiety or depression or concern about use of alcohol or other substances. Having been a Counselor for over 20 years , I have had the opportunity to work in a variety behavioral healthcare settings. My experience has informed my approach to counseling which is evidence and strength based, solution focused and compassionate.
(703) 665-0576 View (703) 665-0576
Photo of Sarah Falzone, Resident in Counseling in Arlington, VA
Sarah Falzone
Resident in Counseling, MA, LPC-R, JD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 20301  (Online Only)
Accepting NEW clients! Do you feel like no matter what you do, you keep ending up in the same place with the same problems? Maybe you’re trying to manage anxiety, depression, or anger. It could be a past trauma or an ongoing battle with substance use, which can also impact your job, your relationships, etc. Feeling lost, overwhelmed, or stuck can make daily life a struggle, not to mention the pain of feeling disconnected from who you really are or want to be. I believe we all can grow beyond old patterns, reactions, and less healthy ways of coping so we can experience emotional security, confident connection, and lasting recovery.
Accepting NEW clients! Do you feel like no matter what you do, you keep ending up in the same place with the same problems? Maybe you’re trying to manage anxiety, depression, or anger. It could be a past trauma or an ongoing battle with substance use, which can also impact your job, your relationships, etc. Feeling lost, overwhelmed, or stuck can make daily life a struggle, not to mention the pain of feeling disconnected from who you really are or want to be. I believe we all can grow beyond old patterns, reactions, and less healthy ways of coping so we can experience emotional security, confident connection, and lasting recovery.
(804) 587-8906 View (804) 587-8906
Photo of Liz McLaughlin, Psychologist in Arlington, VA
Liz McLaughlin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22203  (Online Only)
I help people work on anxiety, depression, substance use problems, stress, and more.
I offer an individualized therapy experience based on modern, evidence-based practices. Your goals may include exploring identity issues, managing life transitions, improving the quality of your relationships, or something else; I look forward to hearing your unique story. I use cognitive-behavioral, acceptance-based, and motivational enhancement-based strategies. We’ll start with a thorough assessment of what is troubling you. We’ll collaborate on identifying what is working for you and what is not, and test new strategies you can use to cope more effectively. All along, I’ll provide a safe setting where you can work things out.
I help people work on anxiety, depression, substance use problems, stress, and more.
I offer an individualized therapy experience based on modern, evidence-based practices. Your goals may include exploring identity issues, managing life transitions, improving the quality of your relationships, or something else; I look forward to hearing your unique story. I use cognitive-behavioral, acceptance-based, and motivational enhancement-based strategies. We’ll start with a thorough assessment of what is troubling you. We’ll collaborate on identifying what is working for you and what is not, and test new strategies you can use to cope more effectively. All along, I’ll provide a safe setting where you can work things out.
(202) 335-7841 View (202) 335-7841
Photo of Rising Recovery and Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arlington, VA
Rising Recovery and Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22207
Have you always felt like an outsider? Has substance use or trauma left you feeling like a spectator in your own life? Are you burnt out, frustrated, or tired of dealing with the same old patterns in your relationships? I am passionate about helping people to better understand and trust themselves and feel empowered in their lives. Together we can address challenges from anger, anxiety and depression to family history, relationship and parenting issues. You will find my therapeutic style is warm, active and direct. I will bring authenticity, humor and connection to our work, and am skilled in enhancing motivation and accountability.
Have you always felt like an outsider? Has substance use or trauma left you feeling like a spectator in your own life? Are you burnt out, frustrated, or tired of dealing with the same old patterns in your relationships? I am passionate about helping people to better understand and trust themselves and feel empowered in their lives. Together we can address challenges from anger, anxiety and depression to family history, relationship and parenting issues. You will find my therapeutic style is warm, active and direct. I will bring authenticity, humor and connection to our work, and am skilled in enhancing motivation and accountability.
(571) 336-1244 View (571) 336-1244
Photo of Zachary Shifflett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arlington, VA
Zachary Shifflett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC, CCPT, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in Substance Use, Depression, Trauma, and Co-occurring disorders.
Calm Seas Counseling VA is serving Virginia residents, adults and adolescents, in their mental health needs. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with expertise in co-occurring disorders. My practice is primarily focused on the treatment of Trauma, Substance Misuse, Depression and Anxiety. If you are an individual who may be struggling with co-occurring Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health concerns, we can work together to manage all of your counseling needs simultaneously. If you are interested in learning more about my practice feel free to visit calmseascounselingva.com.
I specialize in Substance Use, Depression, Trauma, and Co-occurring disorders.
Calm Seas Counseling VA is serving Virginia residents, adults and adolescents, in their mental health needs. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with expertise in co-occurring disorders. My practice is primarily focused on the treatment of Trauma, Substance Misuse, Depression and Anxiety. If you are an individual who may be struggling with co-occurring Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health concerns, we can work together to manage all of your counseling needs simultaneously. If you are interested in learning more about my practice feel free to visit calmseascounselingva.com.
(571) 556-9453 View (571) 556-9453
Photo of Kevin Richardson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arlington, VA
Kevin Richardson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22209  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals with a variety of mental health and substance use challenges, trauma, and overall difficulty coping with the range of obstacles life throws at them.
Years ago, I visited Ghana where I was introduced to a symbol called the “Sankofa”. The Sankofa translates into “go back and fetch” and symbolizes the importance of looking to your past in order to reclaim the strength and wisdom that has been left behind. As a therapist this deeply resonates with me. Often pieces of our past may feel too painful or overwhelming to revisit. However, through my clients I've seen firsthand that even in some of the most challenging and traumatic experiences often lies perseverance, strength, and growth.
I specialize in working with individuals with a variety of mental health and substance use challenges, trauma, and overall difficulty coping with the range of obstacles life throws at them.
Years ago, I visited Ghana where I was introduced to a symbol called the “Sankofa”. The Sankofa translates into “go back and fetch” and symbolizes the importance of looking to your past in order to reclaim the strength and wisdom that has been left behind. As a therapist this deeply resonates with me. Often pieces of our past may feel too painful or overwhelming to revisit. However, through my clients I've seen firsthand that even in some of the most challenging and traumatic experiences often lies perseverance, strength, and growth.
(571) 520-8683 View (571) 520-8683
Photo of Donna Frank, Psychologist in Arlington, VA
Donna Frank
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience in the treatment of substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and adjustment issues.
You are unique. The way you experience and process the world around you is a reflection of your individuality. As such, my approach is tailored to suit the specific needs of the individuals I work with. I believe that everyone is doing their best, given their life circumstances and acquired coping. You deserve to have a provider meet you where you are in life, to be heard and feel understood. In my practice, I don’t just offer therapy; I offer a committed partnership in care with a specialized skill set, expert guidance, and empathetic support.
I have extensive experience in the treatment of substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and adjustment issues.
You are unique. The way you experience and process the world around you is a reflection of your individuality. As such, my approach is tailored to suit the specific needs of the individuals I work with. I believe that everyone is doing their best, given their life circumstances and acquired coping. You deserve to have a provider meet you where you are in life, to be heard and feel understood. In my practice, I don’t just offer therapy; I offer a committed partnership in care with a specialized skill set, expert guidance, and empathetic support.
(571) 620-6181 View (571) 620-6181
Photo of Kiersten Farrell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arlington, VA
Kiersten Farrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201  (Online Only)
It's finally time to focus on evolving, letting go of things that no longer serve you. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner approved by the Virginia Board of Counseling. I have worked in college, hospital, and outpatient settings with kids, teens, and adults. I have extensive work and experience with substance use and abuse, trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD and behavioral struggles, relationship issues, narcissistic abuse, sports related injuries and stress, and major life transitions. Additionally, I have experience working with parents, couples and family dynamics.
It's finally time to focus on evolving, letting go of things that no longer serve you. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner approved by the Virginia Board of Counseling. I have worked in college, hospital, and outpatient settings with kids, teens, and adults. I have extensive work and experience with substance use and abuse, trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD and behavioral struggles, relationship issues, narcissistic abuse, sports related injuries and stress, and major life transitions. Additionally, I have experience working with parents, couples and family dynamics.
(571) 554-5056 View (571) 554-5056
Photo of Damara Beckett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arlington, VA
Damara Beckett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22206
Hello, my name is Damara Beckett, Lpc, Csac. As a clinician, I meet clients where they are and walk alongside them as they become better versions of themselves. I specialize in substance use and general mental health treatment of those ages 13-99 years old. I have a vast array of treating individuals with substance use disorder and general mental health conditions. The most common theoretical approach of my work is cognitive behavior. I work with individuals to explore how their thinking can change feelings and behaviors, thus creating a more favorable outcome.
Hello, my name is Damara Beckett, Lpc, Csac. As a clinician, I meet clients where they are and walk alongside them as they become better versions of themselves. I specialize in substance use and general mental health treatment of those ages 13-99 years old. I have a vast array of treating individuals with substance use disorder and general mental health conditions. The most common theoretical approach of my work is cognitive behavior. I work with individuals to explore how their thinking can change feelings and behaviors, thus creating a more favorable outcome.
(571) 462-6063 View (571) 462-6063
Photo of Amy Nguyen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arlington, VA
Amy Nguyen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22204
I have experience working with individuals in recovery from substance use/addiction, co-occurring mental health challenges, and recovering from first episode psychosis.
Hi there! Thank you so much for taking time to view my profile. I am a licensed clinical social worker based in Virginia with 10 years of professional work experience. Learning from your story is extremely important to me as you are the expert of your life! My hope is to work collaboratively with you to determine goals you have, barriers you may have in reaching those goals, and formulate a plan to work successfully towards these goals.
I have experience working with individuals in recovery from substance use/addiction, co-occurring mental health challenges, and recovering from first episode psychosis.
Hi there! Thank you so much for taking time to view my profile. I am a licensed clinical social worker based in Virginia with 10 years of professional work experience. Learning from your story is extremely important to me as you are the expert of your life! My hope is to work collaboratively with you to determine goals you have, barriers you may have in reaching those goals, and formulate a plan to work successfully towards these goals.
(571) 427-4366 View (571) 427-4366
Photo of Irena S Whitestone, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arlington, VA
Irena S Whitestone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LSATP
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22209
My approach to counseling is to be warm and supportive. I strive to provide a safe and trusting environment. I incorporate elements of CBT, ACT and DBT to provide individual therapy for clients who are currently attending DBT or CBT group. Together we address harmful thoughts and behaviors that lead to depression, anxiety and substance use.
My approach to counseling is to be warm and supportive. I strive to provide a safe and trusting environment. I incorporate elements of CBT, ACT and DBT to provide individual therapy for clients who are currently attending DBT or CBT group. Together we address harmful thoughts and behaviors that lead to depression, anxiety and substance use.
(571) 365-3163 View (571) 365-3163
Photo of Kristen E Nilsen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arlington, VA
Kristen E Nilsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201
My primary areas of focus include anxiety, self-acceptance, substance use disorders, self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, sex/sexuality, and trauma-informed therapy.
The foundation of my counseling practice is the therapeutic alliance, rapport, and trust with my clients. My person-centered approach allows for positive changes to occur within the safety of a healthy therapeutic relationship. My role is to be genuine and authentic, to treat you with empathy unconditionally, and to provide you with a safe, nonjudgmental environment to reconnect with your authentic self. I tailor interventions to the needs of individual clients, incorporating CBT, DBT, and solution-focused work. I don't believe in “one size fits all” counseling approach, strategy, so I empower clients to chart their own course.
My primary areas of focus include anxiety, self-acceptance, substance use disorders, self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, sex/sexuality, and trauma-informed therapy.
The foundation of my counseling practice is the therapeutic alliance, rapport, and trust with my clients. My person-centered approach allows for positive changes to occur within the safety of a healthy therapeutic relationship. My role is to be genuine and authentic, to treat you with empathy unconditionally, and to provide you with a safe, nonjudgmental environment to reconnect with your authentic self. I tailor interventions to the needs of individual clients, incorporating CBT, DBT, and solution-focused work. I don't believe in “one size fits all” counseling approach, strategy, so I empower clients to chart their own course.
(571) 559-7153 View (571) 559-7153
Photo of Arsheia Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arlington, VA
Arsheia Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22207
I specialize in trauma, substance use, depression, anxiety, women's issues, relationship challenges, life transitions, and grief and loss.
I'm so glad you're here! I believe that we all have the potential to be our best selves, and it is my honor and privilege to help you get there. I am a licensed professional counselor with 16 years of experience in the mental health field. I am also a licensed Substance Abuse practitioner and certified sex offender treatment provider. I have extensive training and experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. My therapy practice is based on cognitive-behavioral principles from a client-centered perspective. As a therapist, I aim to help you rediscover your life's balance.
I specialize in trauma, substance use, depression, anxiety, women's issues, relationship challenges, life transitions, and grief and loss.
I'm so glad you're here! I believe that we all have the potential to be our best selves, and it is my honor and privilege to help you get there. I am a licensed professional counselor with 16 years of experience in the mental health field. I am also a licensed Substance Abuse practitioner and certified sex offender treatment provider. I have extensive training and experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. My therapy practice is based on cognitive-behavioral principles from a client-centered perspective. As a therapist, I aim to help you rediscover your life's balance.
(703) 270-0551 View (703) 270-0551
Photo of Lana Ross, Psychologist in Arlington, VA
Lana Ross
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201  (Online Only)
My areas of interest and treatment specialties include: anxiety, depression, trauma/post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, chronic pain, health psychology, substance use, sexuality/identity questions, work/life balance, concerns or issues affecting one’s quality of life, and relationship issues.
I believe in helping individuals and couples gain insight and make behavioral changes to improve well-being. I believe empathy is important in the therapeutic alliance and I strive to create a safe space where the client(s) can feel comfortable in therapy and actively engage in treatment. With individuals, my approach to therapy is based in cognitive-behavioral theory, but also flexible and pragmatic, depending on the individual’s needs. With couples, I primarily utilize the Gottman Method of Couples Therapy, and provide strategies to enhance effective communication, strengthen trust, deepen intimacy and manage conflict.
My areas of interest and treatment specialties include: anxiety, depression, trauma/post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, chronic pain, health psychology, substance use, sexuality/identity questions, work/life balance, concerns or issues affecting one’s quality of life, and relationship issues.
I believe in helping individuals and couples gain insight and make behavioral changes to improve well-being. I believe empathy is important in the therapeutic alliance and I strive to create a safe space where the client(s) can feel comfortable in therapy and actively engage in treatment. With individuals, my approach to therapy is based in cognitive-behavioral theory, but also flexible and pragmatic, depending on the individual’s needs. With couples, I primarily utilize the Gottman Method of Couples Therapy, and provide strategies to enhance effective communication, strengthen trust, deepen intimacy and manage conflict.
(571) 536-7147 View (571) 536-7147
Photo of Zach Hocanson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arlington, VA
Zach Hocanson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201  (Online Only)
I pride myself in a broad bench of modalities which can be used or combined to treat PTSD, Substance Use, Depression and other issues.
With a specialty in PTSD and other trauma related issues, I have effectively treated First Responders, Military and their families. Are you feeling stuck in another time and place? Do past events influence your current life in a way that they shouldn't? Do you or someone you care about suffer from thoughts and physical symptoms which can weigh you down, be overwhelming and impede your life from being the best it can be right now? I work with a broad range of techniques to bring you into the present and rise above issues that may be haunting you.
I pride myself in a broad bench of modalities which can be used or combined to treat PTSD, Substance Use, Depression and other issues.
With a specialty in PTSD and other trauma related issues, I have effectively treated First Responders, Military and their families. Are you feeling stuck in another time and place? Do past events influence your current life in a way that they shouldn't? Do you or someone you care about suffer from thoughts and physical symptoms which can weigh you down, be overwhelming and impede your life from being the best it can be right now? I work with a broad range of techniques to bring you into the present and rise above issues that may be haunting you.
(571) 554-5919 View (571) 554-5919
Photo of Carey Schwartz, Psychologist in Arlington, VA
Carey Schwartz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22203
Dr. Schwartz is a psychologist with many specialties including anxiety (OCD, GAD, Specific Phobias, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety), depression, eating disorders, trauma and PTSD, insomnia, and substance use disorders. He typically works with late adolescents and adults from a variety of backgrounds. Dr. Schwartz primarily uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) though he frequently incorporates Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills training and acceptance-based approaches into his treatment.
Dr. Schwartz is a psychologist with many specialties including anxiety (OCD, GAD, Specific Phobias, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety), depression, eating disorders, trauma and PTSD, insomnia, and substance use disorders. He typically works with late adolescents and adults from a variety of backgrounds. Dr. Schwartz primarily uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) though he frequently incorporates Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills training and acceptance-based approaches into his treatment.
(202) 335-7301 View (202) 335-7301
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.