Photo of Haley Heyl, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Haley Heyl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, MSW, SUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
I’ve counseled in the mental health field since 2014 and specialize in treating co-occurring mental health and substance use/behavioral disorders.
My greatest desire as a therapist is to offer a space where you feel seen and heard in your entirety as a human. My hope is to develop a relationship that is completely judgement free, safe, authentic, and sincere so you can dig deeper into understanding the "why" behind self- sabotaging behaviors and thought patterns. Whether you've struggled with a recent tragedy, a relational challenge, anxiety management, depression, substance use, or just need a place for expression- I am here to offer my expertise and walk alongside you at a pace that is right for you.
I’ve counseled in the mental health field since 2014 and specialize in treating co-occurring mental health and substance use/behavioral disorders.
My greatest desire as a therapist is to offer a space where you feel seen and heard in your entirety as a human. My hope is to develop a relationship that is completely judgement free, safe, authentic, and sincere so you can dig deeper into understanding the "why" behind self- sabotaging behaviors and thought patterns. Whether you've struggled with a recent tragedy, a relational challenge, anxiety management, depression, substance use, or just need a place for expression- I am here to offer my expertise and walk alongside you at a pace that is right for you.
(206) 829-6778 View (206) 829-6778
Photo of Bailey Rahn | Tidepools Counseling, Mental Health Counselor Associate in Seattle, WA
Bailey Rahn | Tidepools Counseling
Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LMHCA, SUDPT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
As a counselor credentialed in both mental health & substance use, I'm able to work with a variety of issues including those entangled with drugs, alcohol, or other addictive patterns—whether you're seeking help with total sobriety or harm-reduction approaches to moderation.
“I need to change, but I don’t know how.” If you can relate to this phrase, you aren’t alone. There are so many reasons we stay stuck: Anxiety, fear, trauma, substance use, unsupported ADHD, and unsupportive relationships, and so much more. There is nothing wrong, defective, or broken about you. You’re doing your best with the strategies you’ve learned, and you deserve the opportunity to explore even more in the safety of an understanding and supportive relationship. By better understanding the "why", we begin to learn the right "how" when it comes to growing and thriving in life and relationships.
As a counselor credentialed in both mental health & substance use, I'm able to work with a variety of issues including those entangled with drugs, alcohol, or other addictive patterns—whether you're seeking help with total sobriety or harm-reduction approaches to moderation.
“I need to change, but I don’t know how.” If you can relate to this phrase, you aren’t alone. There are so many reasons we stay stuck: Anxiety, fear, trauma, substance use, unsupported ADHD, and unsupportive relationships, and so much more. There is nothing wrong, defective, or broken about you. You’re doing your best with the strategies you’ve learned, and you deserve the opportunity to explore even more in the safety of an understanding and supportive relationship. By better understanding the "why", we begin to learn the right "how" when it comes to growing and thriving in life and relationships.
(360) 845-1221 View (360) 845-1221
Photo of Matthew C. Ware, Mental Health Counselor Associate in Seattle, WA
Matthew C. Ware
Mental Health Counselor Associate, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
I have a deep passion for helping trauma survivors, combat veterans, and people who are struggling with addiction to accomplish and sustain meaningful recoveries in their lives. I provide a non-judgmental, compassionate, and safe therapeutic space to help them achieve their goals. The most rewarding thing for me as a therapist is helping a client work through and heal from the trauma and shame that is so commonly the underlying cause of their substance use, addiction, or mental health challenges.
I have a deep passion for helping trauma survivors, combat veterans, and people who are struggling with addiction to accomplish and sustain meaningful recoveries in their lives. I provide a non-judgmental, compassionate, and safe therapeutic space to help them achieve their goals. The most rewarding thing for me as a therapist is helping a client work through and heal from the trauma and shame that is so commonly the underlying cause of their substance use, addiction, or mental health challenges.
(509) 303-4593 View (509) 303-4593
Photo of Candace Hunsucker Therapeutic Services, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Candace Hunsucker Therapeutic Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SUDP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
I serve Co-Occurring populations-those with mental health and substance use issues/Families with children with behavioral health challenges, LGBTQ populations, gender identity issues, sexuality, polyamory/non-traditional relationships.
I offer therapeutic sessions for individuals, couples, youth, and families. I help facilitate a process where people can develop insight and understanding of what may be holding them back from wellness, joy, and personal growth. Sometimes this may involve family patterns, behaviors that are not in line with one's values, or relationships that are no longer serving you. My job is to create safety for people to share their authentic selves, honoring strengths and navigating challenges together. My intention is to honor your gifts and to expand new ways of thinking or approaching situations to better meet your goals.
I serve Co-Occurring populations-those with mental health and substance use issues/Families with children with behavioral health challenges, LGBTQ populations, gender identity issues, sexuality, polyamory/non-traditional relationships.
I offer therapeutic sessions for individuals, couples, youth, and families. I help facilitate a process where people can develop insight and understanding of what may be holding them back from wellness, joy, and personal growth. Sometimes this may involve family patterns, behaviors that are not in line with one's values, or relationships that are no longer serving you. My job is to create safety for people to share their authentic selves, honoring strengths and navigating challenges together. My intention is to honor your gifts and to expand new ways of thinking or approaching situations to better meet your goals.
(206) 486-2113 View (206) 486-2113
Photo of Madeline Kilpatrick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Madeline Kilpatrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
I also work with substance use disorders and have extensive experience working with clients with serious mental illness such as Schizophrenia and with their families.
In my therapeutic practice I seek to motivate clients to build the brain they want rather than feeling stuck with the one they have. By harnessing the power of cognitive restructuring, we can excel at tackling complex issues like dealing with stress, managing emotions, changing habits, controlling impulses and navigating complicated relationships in the same way that we would get better at any other skill; through dedication and practice! I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy techniques and skills to help clients set and achieve their own therapeutic goals and try to instil a sense of hopefulness and resolve in every session.
I also work with substance use disorders and have extensive experience working with clients with serious mental illness such as Schizophrenia and with their families.
In my therapeutic practice I seek to motivate clients to build the brain they want rather than feeling stuck with the one they have. By harnessing the power of cognitive restructuring, we can excel at tackling complex issues like dealing with stress, managing emotions, changing habits, controlling impulses and navigating complicated relationships in the same way that we would get better at any other skill; through dedication and practice! I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy techniques and skills to help clients set and achieve their own therapeutic goals and try to instil a sense of hopefulness and resolve in every session.
(425) 598-0503 View (425) 598-0503
Photo of Alexander Johnson, Counselor in Seattle, 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 MacPherson Pacific Counseling Services, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Seattle, WA
MacPherson Pacific Counseling Services
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, SUDP, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
I have earned a Master's degree from the Hazelden Graduate School of Addiction Studies, and have been a Substance Use Disorder Professional in Washington state since 2009.
I am the director of MacPherson Pacific Counseling Services, a dynamic new option in the treatment of chemical dependency, problem gambling, and sex addiction in the Seattle area. Your experience will be individualized and goal focused. You will develop the tools to reclaim your life from addiction and compulsive behavior and begin to develop a path towards healing and wholeness for both yourself and your support network of family and loved ones. In both individual sessions and groups with others also walking the healing path you will challenge yourself, access reservoirs of strength within yourself, learn to connect, and you will grow.
I have earned a Master's degree from the Hazelden Graduate School of Addiction Studies, and have been a Substance Use Disorder Professional in Washington state since 2009.
I am the director of MacPherson Pacific Counseling Services, a dynamic new option in the treatment of chemical dependency, problem gambling, and sex addiction in the Seattle area. Your experience will be individualized and goal focused. You will develop the tools to reclaim your life from addiction and compulsive behavior and begin to develop a path towards healing and wholeness for both yourself and your support network of family and loved ones. In both individual sessions and groups with others also walking the healing path you will challenge yourself, access reservoirs of strength within yourself, learn to connect, and you will grow.
(206) 558-9014 View (206) 558-9014
Photo of Eileen Scholtz, PLLC, Mental Health Counselor in Seattle, WA
Eileen Scholtz, PLLC
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, SUDPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
I am a Washington mental health and substance use professional that works with adult individuals seeking support for their mental health and/or issues related to substance use and addiction. I believe in approaching clients from a holistic perspective to connect mind, body, and spirit by collaborating and acting as a member of their team. I hope to work with individuals to understand the potential and authenticity we all innately hold and be a supportive ally. I work from a social justice and anti-oppression framework because I believe that providing compassion and understanding is not based on linear imperialist belief systems.
I am a Washington mental health and substance use professional that works with adult individuals seeking support for their mental health and/or issues related to substance use and addiction. I believe in approaching clients from a holistic perspective to connect mind, body, and spirit by collaborating and acting as a member of their team. I hope to work with individuals to understand the potential and authenticity we all innately hold and be a supportive ally. I work from a social justice and anti-oppression framework because I believe that providing compassion and understanding is not based on linear imperialist belief systems.
(206) 752-6369 View (206) 752-6369
Photo of Cory Applegate, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Cory Applegate
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98116
I with individuals, couples/polycules, and families, and have experience treating a wide spectrum of issues, such as depression, anxiety, substance use/abuse, sexual health concerns, and trauma. I specialize in providing evidence-based treatments- meaning the modalities I use have been shown by research to be effective. Some of those modalities include DBT, CBT, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and Gottman Couples Therapy. I offer "Gold-Standard" DBT, including individual therapy, DBT skills group, and between-session phone coaching.
I with individuals, couples/polycules, and families, and have experience treating a wide spectrum of issues, such as depression, anxiety, substance use/abuse, sexual health concerns, and trauma. I specialize in providing evidence-based treatments- meaning the modalities I use have been shown by research to be effective. Some of those modalities include DBT, CBT, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and Gottman Couples Therapy. I offer "Gold-Standard" DBT, including individual therapy, DBT skills group, and between-session phone coaching.
View
Photo of Tess Flaherty, Counselor in Seattle, 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 Emily Sherman, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Emily Sherman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people overcome anxiety, depression, stress, and substance use to live more fully.
You have worked hard to get where you are in life, yet it feels like something is missing. You are tired of feeling unsupported, unfulfilled, burnt out, and unsure of yourself. It wasn't like this before. Things are starting to slip, and that's scary. Anxiety, stress, depression, alcohol use, or unexpected life events are creeping in and getting in the way of the life you have worked hard to build. What would it feel like to have the balance in life you crave? To feel like yourself again? It is possible to be successful AND happy. Make yourself a priority in this busy life you lead. Let me help you thrive.
I specialize in helping people overcome anxiety, depression, stress, and substance use to live more fully.
You have worked hard to get where you are in life, yet it feels like something is missing. You are tired of feeling unsupported, unfulfilled, burnt out, and unsure of yourself. It wasn't like this before. Things are starting to slip, and that's scary. Anxiety, stress, depression, alcohol use, or unexpected life events are creeping in and getting in the way of the life you have worked hard to build. What would it feel like to have the balance in life you crave? To feel like yourself again? It is possible to be successful AND happy. Make yourself a priority in this busy life you lead. Let me help you thrive.
(830) 254-5502 View (830) 254-5502
Photo of Dan Garcia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Dan Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience with men's issues and substance use.
I know what it is like to feel sad for no apparent reason. My ideal client is someone who feels misunderstood, lost, with little or no purpose. I want to get you to participate in life again. Don't let anybody take away your right to live a meaningful life.
I have extensive experience with men's issues and substance use.
I know what it is like to feel sad for no apparent reason. My ideal client is someone who feels misunderstood, lost, with little or no purpose. I want to get you to participate in life again. Don't let anybody take away your right to live a meaningful life.
(714) 694-7337 View (714) 694-7337
Photo of Justin Gladney, Pre-Licensed Professional in Seattle, WA
Justin Gladney
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSWIA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
I am a passionate and dedicated queer therapist with a specialization in LGBTQ-related issues, substance use disorders, trauma, chemsex, sex, and men with sexual dysfunction. My focus is on providing tailored support and guidance to individuals, including gay and bisexual men, MSM (men who have sex with men), and straight men, in their journey towards achieving their mental health goals.
I am a passionate and dedicated queer therapist with a specialization in LGBTQ-related issues, substance use disorders, trauma, chemsex, sex, and men with sexual dysfunction. My focus is on providing tailored support and guidance to individuals, including gay and bisexual men, MSM (men who have sex with men), and straight men, in their journey towards achieving their mental health goals.
(509) 631-8445 View (509) 631-8445
John O'Malley
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CDP, CCFC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109
As a co-occurring disorder (mental health & substance use) specialist, I recognize the importance of building strong emotional connections so I may guide people authentically toward a rewarding path.
"Love says, 'I am everything.' Wisdom says, 'I am nothing." Between these two, my life flows.” Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj Coming back from Vietnam, I found myself drawn to the human psyche and our ability to shape our existence. This exploration led to an intensive study of eastern and western psychological principles and practices. Along this journey, I found my calling - to recognize the innate goodness in all people and help them discover their inner power to transform their lives. I dedicated myself to helping people know they are more than the problems they want to overcome.
As a co-occurring disorder (mental health & substance use) specialist, I recognize the importance of building strong emotional connections so I may guide people authentically toward a rewarding path.
"Love says, 'I am everything.' Wisdom says, 'I am nothing." Between these two, my life flows.” Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj Coming back from Vietnam, I found myself drawn to the human psyche and our ability to shape our existence. This exploration led to an intensive study of eastern and western psychological principles and practices. Along this journey, I found my calling - to recognize the innate goodness in all people and help them discover their inner power to transform their lives. I dedicated myself to helping people know they are more than the problems they want to overcome.
(206) 981-5922 View (206) 981-5922
Photo of Megan Hathaway, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Megan Hathaway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, SUDP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
As a dually licensed clinician, I am able to work with individuals and their families through the difficult process of addiction and substance use; as well as address the underlying emotional concerns.
Welcome! I am here to help support you in navigating through the challenges life can bring. I strive to create a space which is free of judgment and full of support, in order to foster healing and change. As a therapist, my goal is to encourage your strengths, support you in meeting your goals and identify patterns which may be hindering your growth. I practice from a strengths-based perspective, meaning that I believe each person has a valuable and unique life experience that shapes and informs the choices we make and how we live. I operate from a social justice perspective, am fat-positive and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
As a dually licensed clinician, I am able to work with individuals and their families through the difficult process of addiction and substance use; as well as address the underlying emotional concerns.
Welcome! I am here to help support you in navigating through the challenges life can bring. I strive to create a space which is free of judgment and full of support, in order to foster healing and change. As a therapist, my goal is to encourage your strengths, support you in meeting your goals and identify patterns which may be hindering your growth. I practice from a strengths-based perspective, meaning that I believe each person has a valuable and unique life experience that shapes and informs the choices we make and how we live. I operate from a social justice perspective, am fat-positive and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
(425) 329-3824 View (425) 329-3824
Photo of Nadia Amjoun, Pre-Licensed Professional in Seattle, WA
Nadia Amjoun
Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
I am a licensed Substance Use Disorder Professional.
I recognize that each person's journey is unique, and everyone has the power of autonomy in the therapeutic process. I am committed to providing individualized therapy that respects and responds to the diverse experiences of clients. I work primarily with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use issues, and PTSD.
I am a licensed Substance Use Disorder Professional.
I recognize that each person's journey is unique, and everyone has the power of autonomy in the therapeutic process. I am committed to providing individualized therapy that respects and responds to the diverse experiences of clients. I work primarily with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use issues, and PTSD.
(425) 242-3324 View (425) 242-3324
Photo of Thrive on Counseling, LLC Stephanie Koerner, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Thrive on Counseling, LLC Stephanie Koerner
Counselor, LMHC, SUDP, CMHS, GMHS, EMMHS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
Waitlist for new clients
As a dual diagnosis/co-occurring psychotherapist, (licensed mental health counselor and licensed substance use disorder professional) my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges. By applying specific therapeutic approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life and incorporate healthy coping skills.
As a dual diagnosis/co-occurring psychotherapist, (licensed mental health counselor and licensed substance use disorder professional) my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges. By applying specific therapeutic approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life and incorporate healthy coping skills.
(509) 398-8352 View (509) 398-8352
Photo of Dr. Cara Bussell, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Dr. Cara Bussell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121  (Online Only)
Such challenges may contribute to feelings of sadness, worrying, or substance use.
I am a PsyPact clinician and have immediate telehealth openings for clients who reside in the following states: AL, AZ, AR, CO, CNMI, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, and WY.
Such challenges may contribute to feelings of sadness, worrying, or substance use.
I am a PsyPact clinician and have immediate telehealth openings for clients who reside in the following states: AL, AZ, AR, CO, CNMI, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, WI, and WY.
(719) 624-0347 View (719) 624-0347
Photo of Tracy Michelle Ferezan, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Tracy Michelle Ferezan
Counselor, LMHCA, SUDP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate & Substance Use Disorder Professional. I am currently accepting clients who are paying out of pocket in Washington. I have flexible hours using a virtual setting to accommodate work schedules and allow counseling to be your priority. I work with children ages 10 and older, teenagers, and adults. I specialize in working with people who need help with addiction and recovery, suicidal ideation, mood disorders, and trauma. I am an ally to members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate & Substance Use Disorder Professional. I am currently accepting clients who are paying out of pocket in Washington. I have flexible hours using a virtual setting to accommodate work schedules and allow counseling to be your priority. I work with children ages 10 and older, teenagers, and adults. I specialize in working with people who need help with addiction and recovery, suicidal ideation, mood disorders, and trauma. I am an ally to members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
(509) 519-1854 View (509) 519-1854
Photo of Nancy Haver, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Nancy Haver
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
From all appearances, you've got it so good. Lying in wait, just under the surface, are the life traumas that wounded you deeply but were never addressed. And those secrets have you turning to substances more and more. One weekly drink becomes a daily bottle, and you're making excuses to your boss, your friends, your family. Do you want to quit but you don't know how? I can help you find your way out of this despair and into the life you want. You can do this. Let's talk.
From all appearances, you've got it so good. Lying in wait, just under the surface, are the life traumas that wounded you deeply but were never addressed. And those secrets have you turning to substances more and more. One weekly drink becomes a daily bottle, and you're making excuses to your boss, your friends, your family. Do you want to quit but you don't know how? I can help you find your way out of this despair and into the life you want. You can do this. Let's talk.
(206) 258-7825 View (206) 258-7825
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.