Photo of Monica Matthews, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Monica Matthews
Counselor, LMHC, SUPDT, MHP
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
I believe people want to be heard, seen and validated. It can be challenging to find your voice and identity. Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, and Addiction just add to that weight, fueling avoidance and hopelessness. Trying to navigate all of this alone may feel overwhelming and impossible. You don’t have to go it alone. I would be elated to help! I am accepting new clients for in person therapy and tele-health. I work with teens and adults of all ages.
I believe people want to be heard, seen and validated. It can be challenging to find your voice and identity. Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, and Addiction just add to that weight, fueling avoidance and hopelessness. Trying to navigate all of this alone may feel overwhelming and impossible. You don’t have to go it alone. I would be elated to help! I am accepting new clients for in person therapy and tele-health. I work with teens and adults of all ages.
(360) 495-8905 View (360) 495-8905
Photo of Jonathan Vander Schuur, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Jonathan Vander Schuur
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anacortes, WA 98221
I love serving my community in Anacortes and surrounding areas. I have a wide range of expertise. I offer counseling for individuals, couples and minors. I work with all ages, especially children and teens, and take state insurances. I have significant experience working with couples, especially in domestic violence situations and in family reunification. I am also a Guardian Ad Litem for Island county.
I love serving my community in Anacortes and surrounding areas. I have a wide range of expertise. I offer counseling for individuals, couples and minors. I work with all ages, especially children and teens, and take state insurances. I have significant experience working with couples, especially in domestic violence situations and in family reunification. I am also a Guardian Ad Litem for Island county.
(833) 232-4735 View (833) 232-4735
Photo of Amy Heidecker, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Amy Heidecker
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Anacortes, WA 98221
Now accepting online clients in WA & MT. This journey called life is full of ups & downs, joy & pain, being known and feeling alone. This is most prominent during transition times like adolescence, graduating, getting married or divorced, or losing part of your identity through a change in roles or job. In my practice I honor the whole person and treat mind, body, & spirit, as well as the connections with others in relationships. You are welcome & encouraged to bring your whole story and whole self to the therapy process.
Now accepting online clients in WA & MT. This journey called life is full of ups & downs, joy & pain, being known and feeling alone. This is most prominent during transition times like adolescence, graduating, getting married or divorced, or losing part of your identity through a change in roles or job. In my practice I honor the whole person and treat mind, body, & spirit, as well as the connections with others in relationships. You are welcome & encouraged to bring your whole story and whole self to the therapy process.
(406) 612-1414 View (406) 612-1414

Online Therapists

Photo of Rachel Rainne, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Rachel Rainne
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
Issaquah, WA 98027  (Online Only)
She also specializes in adoption, substance use, sex addiction, family of origin issues, soul loss, and attachment issues in relationships.
Rainne specializes in addiction and trauma and has been working in the field of psychotherapy since 2003. She is a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist candidate (CSAT-C) through the International Institute of Trauma and Addiction Professionals (IITAP) and is being mentored by Heidi Kinsella. Rainne received her two master’s degrees from Pacifica Graduate Institute; one in Counseling Psychology and the other in Depth and Somatic Psychology. Working from an instinctual approach, Rainne connects deeply with clients and helps them learn to be free from their shame and suffering.
She also specializes in adoption, substance use, sex addiction, family of origin issues, soul loss, and attachment issues in relationships.
Rainne specializes in addiction and trauma and has been working in the field of psychotherapy since 2003. She is a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist candidate (CSAT-C) through the International Institute of Trauma and Addiction Professionals (IITAP) and is being mentored by Heidi Kinsella. Rainne received her two master’s degrees from Pacifica Graduate Institute; one in Counseling Psychology and the other in Depth and Somatic Psychology. Working from an instinctual approach, Rainne connects deeply with clients and helps them learn to be free from their shame and suffering.
(562) 352-2736 View (562) 352-2736
Photo of Tess Flaherty, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Tess Flaherty
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals recovering from anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflicts, substance use, and eating disorders.
Welcome! Reaching out for help can feel difficult. The stress of everyday life- work, school, family, finances, relationships, etc. can feel difficult to manage. I find it is important to build a strong therapeutic relationship built upon trust, empathy, and compassion. I am here to offer an inclusive, non-judgmental, safe space where you feel comfortable to explore areas of your life that feel complex or troubling.
I specialize in working with individuals recovering from anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflicts, substance use, and eating disorders.
Welcome! Reaching out for help can feel difficult. The stress of everyday life- work, school, family, finances, relationships, etc. can feel difficult to manage. I find it is important to build a strong therapeutic relationship built upon trust, empathy, and compassion. I am here to offer an inclusive, non-judgmental, safe space where you feel comfortable to explore areas of your life that feel complex or troubling.
(206) 752-4154 View (206) 752-4154
Photo of Nikki Eby, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Nikki Eby
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Issaquah, WA 98027  (Online Only)
I can offer guidance to help you address challenges that come as a result of depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, grief, substance use or disordered eating.
If you are in a moment of trying to navigate emotional pain, you are in the right place. Reaching out for support takes courage and wisdom. With all the demand on your time, energy and attention, there is an unreasonable expectation for you to have to take care of everything, both in your external life (work, relationships, finances, etc) and internal life (your emotions, thoughts and patterns).
I can offer guidance to help you address challenges that come as a result of depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, grief, substance use or disordered eating.
If you are in a moment of trying to navigate emotional pain, you are in the right place. Reaching out for support takes courage and wisdom. With all the demand on your time, energy and attention, there is an unreasonable expectation for you to have to take care of everything, both in your external life (work, relationships, finances, etc) and internal life (your emotions, thoughts and patterns).
(206) 889-5358 View (206) 889-5358
Photo of Rene Tobin, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Rene Tobin
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CDP
Verified Verified
Monroe, WA 98272
I have experience working with individuals and families across the lifespan, including those living with neurodiversity, substance use disorders, and mental health concerns.
I believe change takes place in the context of a relationship. My focus is on helping my clients achieve their therapy goals. I collaborate with my clients to support them in finding solutions to the challenges they bring to our sessions. I use an integrated approach tailored to your goals and values. I tend to be solution and goal focused, but to get there most individuals need to process experiences and emotions to better understand their own thoughts and feelings. With productive self-awareness your actions will naturally become more effective and thoughtful.
I have experience working with individuals and families across the lifespan, including those living with neurodiversity, substance use disorders, and mental health concerns.
I believe change takes place in the context of a relationship. My focus is on helping my clients achieve their therapy goals. I collaborate with my clients to support them in finding solutions to the challenges they bring to our sessions. I use an integrated approach tailored to your goals and values. I tend to be solution and goal focused, but to get there most individuals need to process experiences and emotions to better understand their own thoughts and feelings. With productive self-awareness your actions will naturally become more effective and thoughtful.
(360) 347-9722 x4 View (360) 347-9722 x4
Photo of Paige Boren, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Paige Boren
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a skilled diagnostician with experience in assessing and diagnosing substance use disorder as well as mental health disorders.
My professional orientation is very eclectic. I combine a Jungian philosophy with CBT and DBT interventions with a client centered approach that involves a caring and insightful focus on self, others and community. My intention is to collaborate fully with each individual and to assist him or her in changing the trajectory of his or her life in a positive way. I view self discovery as an essential part of our unfolding experience together and value our time together. To become an agent of change in one's own life takes tremendous courage and strength; I can help facilitate this.
I am a skilled diagnostician with experience in assessing and diagnosing substance use disorder as well as mental health disorders.
My professional orientation is very eclectic. I combine a Jungian philosophy with CBT and DBT interventions with a client centered approach that involves a caring and insightful focus on self, others and community. My intention is to collaborate fully with each individual and to assist him or her in changing the trajectory of his or her life in a positive way. I view self discovery as an essential part of our unfolding experience together and value our time together. To become an agent of change in one's own life takes tremendous courage and strength; I can help facilitate this.
(206) 966-4380 View (206) 966-4380
Photo of Madeline Wilson, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Madeline Wilson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP, ATR, LPC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98177  (Online Only)
I have experience working with a range of diagnosis including, but not limited to, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Depression and Issues including women’s issues, life transitions, gender affirmation, self-esteem, stress, family of origin dynamics, isolation/loneliness, substance use disorders, and personal impact from another's substance use.
Do you feel like you are in a power struggle with yourself? Lets team up and bring some balance to your life by processing and working thought current and past stressors and life events. We can collaborate on building your self esteem and develop a clear identity by utilizing creativity, abstract thinking, somatic practices, mindfulness, and cognitive processing. Imagine a future where you can heal from the impact of trauma, build communication skills to enhance your interpersonal relationships, and improve your overall satisfaction with life. We can work together to address the deep rooted patterns keeping you stuck.
I have experience working with a range of diagnosis including, but not limited to, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Depression and Issues including women’s issues, life transitions, gender affirmation, self-esteem, stress, family of origin dynamics, isolation/loneliness, substance use disorders, and personal impact from another's substance use.
Do you feel like you are in a power struggle with yourself? Lets team up and bring some balance to your life by processing and working thought current and past stressors and life events. We can collaborate on building your self esteem and develop a clear identity by utilizing creativity, abstract thinking, somatic practices, mindfulness, and cognitive processing. Imagine a future where you can heal from the impact of trauma, build communication skills to enhance your interpersonal relationships, and improve your overall satisfaction with life. We can work together to address the deep rooted patterns keeping you stuck.
(206) 208-7956 View (206) 208-7956
Photo of Nadya Kosanovskaya, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Nadya Kosanovskaya
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT, SUDP, CMHS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98008
I am a Master’s level Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT) and co-occurring disorders therapist, who is trained in Family Systems and Substance Use/Dependency (SUDP) with the background in Human Biochemistry. I practice with a Holistic view and will focus on your overall well-being and not only emotional and mental health. My specialties are anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, insecurities and stress management. I support my clients and families on a level that is approachable, sensitive & humane, working with employees from; Google, Microsoft, FaceBook, AMZ, Boeing, Starbucks + others. Video sessions or in person meetings.
I am a Master’s level Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT) and co-occurring disorders therapist, who is trained in Family Systems and Substance Use/Dependency (SUDP) with the background in Human Biochemistry. I practice with a Holistic view and will focus on your overall well-being and not only emotional and mental health. My specialties are anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, insecurities and stress management. I support my clients and families on a level that is approachable, sensitive & humane, working with employees from; Google, Microsoft, FaceBook, AMZ, Boeing, Starbucks + others. Video sessions or in person meetings.
(253) 300-2889 View (253) 300-2889
Photo of Alexander Johnson, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Alexander Johnson
Counselor, MA, , LMHC, CDP, MHP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
Congratulations, you have just found my profile on Psychology Today! I truly appreciate your choice in arriving at my profile. I am a duel credentialed clinician. Originally from Chicago, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Certified Substance Use Disorder Professional in the State of Washington. I completed my undergraduate psychology degree at the University Of San Francisco. Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Seattle University. I have been in the behavioral health field since 2007. I provide direct clinical service; intake evaluations; diagnosis; individual, group, and family psychotherapy,Psychoeducation
Congratulations, you have just found my profile on Psychology Today! I truly appreciate your choice in arriving at my profile. I am a duel credentialed clinician. Originally from Chicago, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Certified Substance Use Disorder Professional in the State of Washington. I completed my undergraduate psychology degree at the University Of San Francisco. Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Seattle University. I have been in the behavioral health field since 2007. I provide direct clinical service; intake evaluations; diagnosis; individual, group, and family psychotherapy,Psychoeducation
(206) 984-3340 View (206) 984-3340
Photo of Nichole Speaks, Mental Health Counselor Associate in Anacortes, WA
Nichole Speaks
Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036
I am Nichole Speaks, a compassionate Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate who acknowledges the courage and vulnerability it takes to seek therapy. Consequently, I endeavor to create a secure and nurturing environment, encouraging you to openly explore your thoughts, emotions, and obstacles. Recognizing the power of connection and collaboration, I work alongside you to craft customized strategies that align precisely with your unique aspirations and requirements. I have a special interest, training and experience working with those experiencing substance use disorders, grief and loss, end of life, co-occurring and adolescents.
I am Nichole Speaks, a compassionate Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate who acknowledges the courage and vulnerability it takes to seek therapy. Consequently, I endeavor to create a secure and nurturing environment, encouraging you to openly explore your thoughts, emotions, and obstacles. Recognizing the power of connection and collaboration, I work alongside you to craft customized strategies that align precisely with your unique aspirations and requirements. I have a special interest, training and experience working with those experiencing substance use disorders, grief and loss, end of life, co-occurring and adolescents.
(206) 567-7706 View (206) 567-7706
Photo of Santana Taylor, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Santana Taylor
Counselor, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98058  (Online Only)
Thank you for checking in to learn a little bit more about me. Have you found that you struggling with issues related to anxiety, trauma, life transitions, or other major changes that can come on a day to day basis? We have all been there where we have found that we may need additional support to help navigate and cope with those challenges. My name is Santana and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Substance use Disorder Professional offering virtual services.
Thank you for checking in to learn a little bit more about me. Have you found that you struggling with issues related to anxiety, trauma, life transitions, or other major changes that can come on a day to day basis? We have all been there where we have found that we may need additional support to help navigate and cope with those challenges. My name is Santana and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Substance use Disorder Professional offering virtual services.
(270) 655-1976 View (270) 655-1976
Photo of Sarah Buban, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Sarah Buban
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maple Valley, WA 98038  (Online Only)
I assist clients in recognizing their own resilience and developing coping skills for mental health/substance use recovery and relapse prevention.
I am ready to work with you no matter where you are on your life path or your readiness to change. I would especially love to work with you if you have ever felt marginalized, unacceptable, unlovable, stuck, traumatized, or doomed because of your past. I have 10+ years of experience helping clients like you to find meaningful change. Most of my experience has been meeting with clients in person, but right now I am only able to offer telehealth sessions. Clients and I have found that these virtual sessions can be just as effective as in-person meetings. Plus, they are convenient! Meet in your home, car, or while taking a walk!
I assist clients in recognizing their own resilience and developing coping skills for mental health/substance use recovery and relapse prevention.
I am ready to work with you no matter where you are on your life path or your readiness to change. I would especially love to work with you if you have ever felt marginalized, unacceptable, unlovable, stuck, traumatized, or doomed because of your past. I have 10+ years of experience helping clients like you to find meaningful change. Most of my experience has been meeting with clients in person, but right now I am only able to offer telehealth sessions. Clients and I have found that these virtual sessions can be just as effective as in-person meetings. Plus, they are convenient! Meet in your home, car, or while taking a walk!
(425) 906-1961 View (425) 906-1961
Photo of Sydney Benton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Sydney Benton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC, SUDPT
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98055
I enjoy working with women undergoing any kind of life transitions, as well as folks wanting to explore body image, trauma, and substance use.
I will provide a safe space for you to express all of who you are, without fear of judgement. The therapeutic relationship is important in helping you feel safe, and I enjoy taking time to build this relationship. My style allows you to lead the way and focus on whatever may be holding you back from living your most authentic life. My work is guided by the belief that everything you need is already within yourself, and our work together can help you uncover your inner strength and peace. I utilize a trauma-informed approach and my therapeutic method focuses on radical acceptance, self-compassion and distress tolerance skills.
I enjoy working with women undergoing any kind of life transitions, as well as folks wanting to explore body image, trauma, and substance use.
I will provide a safe space for you to express all of who you are, without fear of judgement. The therapeutic relationship is important in helping you feel safe, and I enjoy taking time to build this relationship. My style allows you to lead the way and focus on whatever may be holding you back from living your most authentic life. My work is guided by the belief that everything you need is already within yourself, and our work together can help you uncover your inner strength and peace. I utilize a trauma-informed approach and my therapeutic method focuses on radical acceptance, self-compassion and distress tolerance skills.
(206) 539-1303 View (206) 539-1303
Photo of Sound Practice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Sound Practice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, DVC, SUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98402
I provide court ordered domestic violence, mental health, and substance use assessments.
Now accepting new clients! My theoretical approach is one of self-awareness. Having a healthy relationship with you in order to have healthy relationships with others. The modalities I use the most are CBT, DBT, and ACT. Learn how to communicate more effectively and live an intentional life. We address trauma, boundaries, emotional self-management, and how to have relationships that work. LGBTQA+ friendly. As a certified domestic violence, and substance use clinician, I am well versed in trauma informed care and systems needs.
I provide court ordered domestic violence, mental health, and substance use assessments.
Now accepting new clients! My theoretical approach is one of self-awareness. Having a healthy relationship with you in order to have healthy relationships with others. The modalities I use the most are CBT, DBT, and ACT. Learn how to communicate more effectively and live an intentional life. We address trauma, boundaries, emotional self-management, and how to have relationships that work. LGBTQA+ friendly. As a certified domestic violence, and substance use clinician, I am well versed in trauma informed care and systems needs.
(253) 286-0992 View (253) 286-0992
Photo of Jolene Janacek, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Jolene Janacek
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, SUDP, BA, AAST, YTT
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
I prefer to explore substance use with my clients around neurological divergence, a response to trauma and/or neurological deficits in which substance use is a way of coping and subsequently influences personality and character traits and worsens these deficits.
Hi there, My name is Jolene and I am a co-occurring disorders and trauma specialist, level 200 and 300 yoga instructor, sound healer, and domestic violence advocate. I am 40 years old and have been in the counseling/healing profession for almost 20 years. I would love to help you explore your identity and relationship with substances, trauma and other issues. I use a variety of techniques and modalities to explore and restore energy and your focus in life. Please reach out if you are feeling lost, empty or are in need of support. "You are enough". My work here on Psychology Today is private pay - under the title of life coaching.
I prefer to explore substance use with my clients around neurological divergence, a response to trauma and/or neurological deficits in which substance use is a way of coping and subsequently influences personality and character traits and worsens these deficits.
Hi there, My name is Jolene and I am a co-occurring disorders and trauma specialist, level 200 and 300 yoga instructor, sound healer, and domestic violence advocate. I am 40 years old and have been in the counseling/healing profession for almost 20 years. I would love to help you explore your identity and relationship with substances, trauma and other issues. I use a variety of techniques and modalities to explore and restore energy and your focus in life. Please reach out if you are feeling lost, empty or are in need of support. "You are enough". My work here on Psychology Today is private pay - under the title of life coaching.
(425) 390-5464 View (425) 390-5464
Photo of Kristen Hagin, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Kristen Hagin
Counselor, LIMHP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98229  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Kristen. I am licensed in Nebraska, Iowa, Washington, and Florida. I provide therapy through a secure online therapy platform. Thank you for reaching out and exploring what therapy options are available to you. I enjoy working with young adults to older adults with a variety of concerns and problems. I am passionate about helping people who are going through life changes, grief, relationship conflict, anxiety concerns, and parenting challenges. It is important to feel like you have a trusted adult in your corner, and I look forward to being that person.
Hello! My name is Kristen. I am licensed in Nebraska, Iowa, Washington, and Florida. I provide therapy through a secure online therapy platform. Thank you for reaching out and exploring what therapy options are available to you. I enjoy working with young adults to older adults with a variety of concerns and problems. I am passionate about helping people who are going through life changes, grief, relationship conflict, anxiety concerns, and parenting challenges. It is important to feel like you have a trusted adult in your corner, and I look forward to being that person.
(308) 470-4214 View (308) 470-4214
Photo of S. Mike Monks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
S. Mike Monks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98445  (Online Only)
Visit website for initial appointment availability. Improving yourself can be a rewarding and lifelong positive enhancement. My role as a Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) is to help you in this journey. I believe that every person has room for improvement and seeking professional mental health counseling is a great step to take to improve yourself. I practice from a strengths perspective, helping you realize how to use what you do best to your maximum benefit. I also enjoy helping individuals who are not coping well in the context of their relationships with others and their families.
Visit website for initial appointment availability. Improving yourself can be a rewarding and lifelong positive enhancement. My role as a Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) is to help you in this journey. I believe that every person has room for improvement and seeking professional mental health counseling is a great step to take to improve yourself. I practice from a strengths perspective, helping you realize how to use what you do best to your maximum benefit. I also enjoy helping individuals who are not coping well in the context of their relationships with others and their families.
(206) 558-9429 View (206) 558-9429
Photo of Holly Zwolinski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Holly Zwolinski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LICSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98226  (Online Only)
I believe that fostering an open and collaborative therapeutic relationship with clients is key to getting the most out of therapy. Together we are able to focus on gaining insight into interpersonal relationships and identifying the patterns that affect them. I specialize in working with adults who are experiencing various issues related to trauma, stress, and life adjustments.
I believe that fostering an open and collaborative therapeutic relationship with clients is key to getting the most out of therapy. Together we are able to focus on gaining insight into interpersonal relationships and identifying the patterns that affect them. I specialize in working with adults who are experiencing various issues related to trauma, stress, and life adjustments.
(360) 299-5623 View (360) 299-5623
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.