Substance Use Therapists in Berkeley, CA

Photo of Erica Saini, Psychologist in Berkeley, CA
Erica Saini
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
I approach the topic of substance use with a deep sensitivity to the intersecting dynamics surrounding how people use substances, what they use, and why.
A licensed clinical psychologist, I provide psychodynamic psychotherapy to individuals and couples throughout California. I offer compassion, patience, and safety as we endeavor to better understand what has brought you to therapy, and how to move through to something new. My work is trauma-informed and grounded in principles of empowerment.
I approach the topic of substance use with a deep sensitivity to the intersecting dynamics surrounding how people use substances, what they use, and why.
A licensed clinical psychologist, I provide psychodynamic psychotherapy to individuals and couples throughout California. I offer compassion, patience, and safety as we endeavor to better understand what has brought you to therapy, and how to move through to something new. My work is trauma-informed and grounded in principles of empowerment.
(510) 491-9476 View (510) 491-9476
Photo of Sally C. Cohen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Berkeley, CA
Sally C. Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
Are you someone who is struggling with depression, substance use, self harm, negativity, isolation, loss, social anxiety, or anger? I offer a safe place to discuss and explore your thoughts and feelings.
As an experienced therapist in private practice, I work with people of all ages who are struggling with a wide variety of challenges through different stages of the life cycle. I work collaboratively to help people reach their goals while offering insight and support. I offer a unique and thoughtful approach, developed through years of experience working with hundreds of individuals, teens and parents.
Are you someone who is struggling with depression, substance use, self harm, negativity, isolation, loss, social anxiety, or anger? I offer a safe place to discuss and explore your thoughts and feelings.
As an experienced therapist in private practice, I work with people of all ages who are struggling with a wide variety of challenges through different stages of the life cycle. I work collaboratively to help people reach their goals while offering insight and support. I offer a unique and thoughtful approach, developed through years of experience working with hundreds of individuals, teens and parents.
(510) 648-3202 View (510) 648-3202
Photo of Jacob Donnelly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berkeley, CA
Jacob Donnelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
I am a non-judgmental, active therapist, specializing in substance use/addictions, anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain and illness, relationships, and work stress. Prior to private practice, I was the Clinical Director at a San Francisco non-profit serving veterans. I enjoy working with adults, older adults, older teens (16+) and couples. Whether you want to get support around new changes in your life that are causing you pain and worry, or work through problems that have been with you for years, my goal is to help you feel relief, feel empowered, and work through the things that are out of your control.
I am a non-judgmental, active therapist, specializing in substance use/addictions, anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain and illness, relationships, and work stress. Prior to private practice, I was the Clinical Director at a San Francisco non-profit serving veterans. I enjoy working with adults, older adults, older teens (16+) and couples. Whether you want to get support around new changes in your life that are causing you pain and worry, or work through problems that have been with you for years, my goal is to help you feel relief, feel empowered, and work through the things that are out of your control.
(510) 399-1667 View (510) 399-1667
Photo of Brenna McGee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Berkeley, CA
Brenna McGee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94709
The volatility of the past two years has compounded existing challenges in relationships, work stress, substance use, and mental wellness, and together we can find balance.
There is no "one size fits all" in effective therapy. While we may be all facing some common stressors, each person, couple, or family is different and I adapt accordingly to help foster growth and wellness that fits your life. I am committed to creating a genuine and supportive environment to explore your goals, feelings, and stuck points by integrating a variety of evidence-based modalities. Together we will alleviate stress and interpersonal strain, build balance, and promote long-term wellness. Please visit my website at www.brennamcgee.com for additional information and I look forward to meeting you!
The volatility of the past two years has compounded existing challenges in relationships, work stress, substance use, and mental wellness, and together we can find balance.
There is no "one size fits all" in effective therapy. While we may be all facing some common stressors, each person, couple, or family is different and I adapt accordingly to help foster growth and wellness that fits your life. I am committed to creating a genuine and supportive environment to explore your goals, feelings, and stuck points by integrating a variety of evidence-based modalities. Together we will alleviate stress and interpersonal strain, build balance, and promote long-term wellness. Please visit my website at www.brennamcgee.com for additional information and I look forward to meeting you!
(612) 324-8175 View (612) 324-8175
Photo of James Francis Gallagher Jr., Marriage & Family Therapist in Berkeley, CA
James Francis Gallagher Jr.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94701
We are all born whole, in lovingkind perfection. But life produces obstacles that sidetrack our becoming ourselves. Obstacles take any forms: trauma in the body, inauthentic identities, existential fears, beliefs indoctrinated but in conflict with one's essential values, or anxiety that something is wrong with oneself. The result can be alienation, grief, substance use issues, depression, anxiety, difficulty connecting, or incapacity to speak or create from the heart. Reconnecting with ones body, the natural world, and with an unconditional community are the foundations re-emerging into the Self you've always been.
We are all born whole, in lovingkind perfection. But life produces obstacles that sidetrack our becoming ourselves. Obstacles take any forms: trauma in the body, inauthentic identities, existential fears, beliefs indoctrinated but in conflict with one's essential values, or anxiety that something is wrong with oneself. The result can be alienation, grief, substance use issues, depression, anxiety, difficulty connecting, or incapacity to speak or create from the heart. Reconnecting with ones body, the natural world, and with an unconditional community are the foundations re-emerging into the Self you've always been.
(510) 876-9446 View (510) 876-9446
Photo of Sergio Ruiz Psychotherapy, Counselor in Berkeley, CA
Sergio Ruiz Psychotherapy
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94707
I want to assist you in examining why you feel like your life is not where you think or sense it should be. Why you have a nagging feeling that perhaps you're wasting time and not living your life in a more deep and fulfilling manner. You may think you're “not good enough,” or “if only this would have/not have happened," life would be different. The activities you do feel banal, going to work/school is dreadful, relationships and family are difficult, and the values and beliefs that once held you have lost their ground. You feel lonely, depressed, anxious, and perhaps substance use is worsening. You’re wondering about doing therapy.
I want to assist you in examining why you feel like your life is not where you think or sense it should be. Why you have a nagging feeling that perhaps you're wasting time and not living your life in a more deep and fulfilling manner. You may think you're “not good enough,” or “if only this would have/not have happened," life would be different. The activities you do feel banal, going to work/school is dreadful, relationships and family are difficult, and the values and beliefs that once held you have lost their ground. You feel lonely, depressed, anxious, and perhaps substance use is worsening. You’re wondering about doing therapy.
(408) 868-2217 View (408) 868-2217
Photo of H. Ameeta Singh - Online Video Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Berkeley, CA
H. Ameeta Singh - Online Video Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
I have supported clients to create healing & change in their lives around sexual abuse; incarceration trauma; substance use; unhealthy relationships; depression; anxiety & other challenges.
I work with clients to cultivate deeper insight & understanding about the ways in which our life experiences & ways of being in the world impact our choices & behaviors. In working this way I have found that clients feel empowered to make changes to unhealthy behaviors & create proactive coping strategies for managing situations they may not, as yet, be able to change. I draw upon clients' strengths, culture, spirituality & community as a means of facilitating healing, empowerment & change. My therapeutic approach is grounded in anti-racist and social justice principles.
I have supported clients to create healing & change in their lives around sexual abuse; incarceration trauma; substance use; unhealthy relationships; depression; anxiety & other challenges.
I work with clients to cultivate deeper insight & understanding about the ways in which our life experiences & ways of being in the world impact our choices & behaviors. In working this way I have found that clients feel empowered to make changes to unhealthy behaviors & create proactive coping strategies for managing situations they may not, as yet, be able to change. I draw upon clients' strengths, culture, spirituality & community as a means of facilitating healing, empowerment & change. My therapeutic approach is grounded in anti-racist and social justice principles.
(415) 723-4309 View (415) 723-4309
Photo of Elyse Lanzner Gong, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berkeley, CA
Elyse Lanzner Gong, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94707  (Online Only)
I enable my clients as they move through transitions and realization of a harmonious and integrated self. I do this by utilizing evidence-based practice with transparency, humor, and compassion. I support my clients to feel empowered in their daily decisions and overall well-being. My clients often present to therapy struggling in one or more of the following life areas: relationship issues, anxiety, depression & bipolar disorder, shame, perinatal related issues, substance use, and life transitions. In couples therapy, I am here to support each partner learn and apply the Gottman tools that can truly change your relationship.
I enable my clients as they move through transitions and realization of a harmonious and integrated self. I do this by utilizing evidence-based practice with transparency, humor, and compassion. I support my clients to feel empowered in their daily decisions and overall well-being. My clients often present to therapy struggling in one or more of the following life areas: relationship issues, anxiety, depression & bipolar disorder, shame, perinatal related issues, substance use, and life transitions. In couples therapy, I am here to support each partner learn and apply the Gottman tools that can truly change your relationship.
(510) 405-4876 View (510) 405-4876
Photo of William H Ward, Marriage and Family Therapy, Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist in Berkeley, CA
William H Ward, Marriage and Family Therapy, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, 100349
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94710  (Online Only)
IFS helps client to learn and identify symptoms (parts): Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Use, relational difficulties in a way that promotes healing through self-awareness, self-compassion and emotional regulation.
Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR are 3 evidenced based approaches I use that can help heal relationships, trauma, depression, and anxiety. My personal recovery from trauma symptoms and substance utilizing IFS and community support have helped me hold a wider space for the pain that drives the behavior of addiction. I hold no judgment for the person seeking help. I hold this view within the context of relationship therapy as well.
IFS helps client to learn and identify symptoms (parts): Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Use, relational difficulties in a way that promotes healing through self-awareness, self-compassion and emotional regulation.
Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR are 3 evidenced based approaches I use that can help heal relationships, trauma, depression, and anxiety. My personal recovery from trauma symptoms and substance utilizing IFS and community support have helped me hold a wider space for the pain that drives the behavior of addiction. I hold no judgment for the person seeking help. I hold this view within the context of relationship therapy as well.
(510) 513-0858 View (510) 513-0858
Photo of Anne Dinkelspiel, Psychologist in Berkeley, CA
Anne Dinkelspiel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94707  (Online Only)
I also have expertise working with people around substance use and addiction and their families.
I am a seasoned clinician with expertise to accompany you on your inner journey. I am flexible in my approach so that I can respond to the particular needs you bring to therapy. At one point you may need support and practical tools for addressing experiences that are painful or challenging. At another time, you may need room to explore the patterns of thought, feeling or behavior that are puzzling to you, including more unconscious factors that may be exerting their invisible influence on your life. I see people from a variety of backgrounds, including many therapists.
I also have expertise working with people around substance use and addiction and their families.
I am a seasoned clinician with expertise to accompany you on your inner journey. I am flexible in my approach so that I can respond to the particular needs you bring to therapy. At one point you may need support and practical tools for addressing experiences that are painful or challenging. At another time, you may need room to explore the patterns of thought, feeling or behavior that are puzzling to you, including more unconscious factors that may be exerting their invisible influence on your life. I see people from a variety of backgrounds, including many therapists.
(510) 470-7896 View (510) 470-7896
Photo of Mary-Jo Foresta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berkeley, CA
Mary-Jo Foresta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
My passion is working with adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and/or substance use disorders.
I believe what leads people to seek therapy is the feeling of uncertainty about life choices, the ineffective behavioral and thinking patterns that are acted on over and over again. These patterns can show up in our relationship to ourselves, to substances, and especially to others. I approach therapy with the genuine belief that all people are worthy and capable of breaking these patterns and creating healthy relationships with themselves, with others and creating an authentic life.
My passion is working with adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and/or substance use disorders.
I believe what leads people to seek therapy is the feeling of uncertainty about life choices, the ineffective behavioral and thinking patterns that are acted on over and over again. These patterns can show up in our relationship to ourselves, to substances, and especially to others. I approach therapy with the genuine belief that all people are worthy and capable of breaking these patterns and creating healthy relationships with themselves, with others and creating an authentic life.
(415) 634-5722 View (415) 634-5722
Photo of Will Barone, Psychologist in Berkeley, CA
Will Barone
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
Dr. Will Barone is a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive clinical and research experience focusing on anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, relationship issues, and substance use. He uses a Humanistic approach to therapy, which emphasizes warmth, authenticity, and appreciation for the uniqueness of every individual. His collaborative, integrative approach focuses on helping clients find an individualized course of treatment to best meet their goals. In addition to traditional psychotherapy, Dr. Barone also specializes in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy, currently using Ketamine-assisted therapy for clients when appropriate.
Dr. Will Barone is a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive clinical and research experience focusing on anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, relationship issues, and substance use. He uses a Humanistic approach to therapy, which emphasizes warmth, authenticity, and appreciation for the uniqueness of every individual. His collaborative, integrative approach focuses on helping clients find an individualized course of treatment to best meet their goals. In addition to traditional psychotherapy, Dr. Barone also specializes in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy, currently using Ketamine-assisted therapy for clients when appropriate.
(628) 265-6545 View (628) 265-6545
Photo of Anna Kline, Counselor in Berkeley, CA
Anna Kline
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94710
I also work with people struggling with the intersection of mental health and substance use.
You might come to me struggling to find a sense of wellness, balance, or fulfillment in your day to day life. You might feel overwhelmed and lost in the midst of too many competing demands. You might be seeking help to let go of things that are holding you back and to find new ways to navigate your experience. My approach is collaborative, supportive, holistic, and nonjudgmental. Together, we can explore your unique history, challenges, and strengths to help you sort through things, heal, and find ways to live a richer, more meaningful, and more fulfilling life.
I also work with people struggling with the intersection of mental health and substance use.
You might come to me struggling to find a sense of wellness, balance, or fulfillment in your day to day life. You might feel overwhelmed and lost in the midst of too many competing demands. You might be seeking help to let go of things that are holding you back and to find new ways to navigate your experience. My approach is collaborative, supportive, holistic, and nonjudgmental. Together, we can explore your unique history, challenges, and strengths to help you sort through things, heal, and find ways to live a richer, more meaningful, and more fulfilling life.
(650) 563-7345 View (650) 563-7345
Photo of Ken Stamper, Marriage & Family Therapist in Berkeley, CA
Ken Stamper
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
I also enjoy working with new parents, adolescents, families, and adults who are struggling with screen use, bullying, video games, and substance use.
My therapeutic style is approachable, warm, curious, and, when necessary, challenging. I draw from my training in the lineage of Gestalt Therapy, working in the 'here and now' to find out how we can create growth and change. I also use tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy when appropriate to help develop awareness for effective change. We will work collaboratively to see how you can learn respond to your environment with greater freedom and choice, where you can see possibilities and turn them into actualities. I'm here to support you in becoming your best self.
I also enjoy working with new parents, adolescents, families, and adults who are struggling with screen use, bullying, video games, and substance use.
My therapeutic style is approachable, warm, curious, and, when necessary, challenging. I draw from my training in the lineage of Gestalt Therapy, working in the 'here and now' to find out how we can create growth and change. I also use tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy when appropriate to help develop awareness for effective change. We will work collaboratively to see how you can learn respond to your environment with greater freedom and choice, where you can see possibilities and turn them into actualities. I'm here to support you in becoming your best self.
(628) 214-5147 View (628) 214-5147
Photo of Anica Leon-Weil, Marriage & Family Therapist in Berkeley, CA
Anica Leon-Weil
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
I use a holistic and varied approach drawing from many modalities along with a backdrop of trauma focused, racial and social justice informed, compassionate, and self-determination based care. I have experience working with folks across the lifespan and have particular specialization and interest in regards to relational issues including polyamory/open relationships, as well as work stress, self esteem, boundary setting, life transitions, sexuality, substance use, trauma, depression, anxiety, & perinatal/postpartum.
I use a holistic and varied approach drawing from many modalities along with a backdrop of trauma focused, racial and social justice informed, compassionate, and self-determination based care. I have experience working with folks across the lifespan and have particular specialization and interest in regards to relational issues including polyamory/open relationships, as well as work stress, self esteem, boundary setting, life transitions, sexuality, substance use, trauma, depression, anxiety, & perinatal/postpartum.
(415) 429-4460 View (415) 429-4460
Photo of Kelly Albrecht, Pre-Licensed Professional in Berkeley, CA
Kelly Albrecht
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders, my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem Solving Therapy and somatic interventions.
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders, my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem Solving Therapy and somatic interventions.
(415) 855-7073 View (415) 855-7073
Photo of Nisha Fernandes-Seshadri, Psychologist in Berkeley, CA
Nisha Fernandes-Seshadri
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
I've helped numerous individuals over the years, including those with relationship problems, anxiety, depression, trauma, loss & grief, parenting struggles, cultural/racial issues, health problems and substance use.
Hi there! I am a psychologist with over 20 years of experience in the field. My experience has allowed me to bring a deeper perspective to situations, and I know the value of giving that feedback to my clients. I utilize a variety of approaches like CBT, EMDR, Solution-Focused, Psychodynamic and Existential therapies. I had a thriving practice in the San Francisco Bay Area, but chose to live in beautiful and active Boulder instead. Because I just recently opened my practice to in-person clients here, I have openings!
I've helped numerous individuals over the years, including those with relationship problems, anxiety, depression, trauma, loss & grief, parenting struggles, cultural/racial issues, health problems and substance use.
Hi there! I am a psychologist with over 20 years of experience in the field. My experience has allowed me to bring a deeper perspective to situations, and I know the value of giving that feedback to my clients. I utilize a variety of approaches like CBT, EMDR, Solution-Focused, Psychodynamic and Existential therapies. I had a thriving practice in the San Francisco Bay Area, but chose to live in beautiful and active Boulder instead. Because I just recently opened my practice to in-person clients here, I have openings!
(720) 776-5683 View (720) 776-5683
Photo of Kevin Orzech, Psychologist in Berkeley, CA
Kevin Orzech
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
Using methods backed by psychological research, I assist people in addressing anxiety, panic, high stress, depression, substance use, emotional overwhelm, relationship distress, intimacy issues, performance fears, transitions and trauma.
Psychotherapy is about change. I work grounded in the belief that we have innate resources for thriving and ease that become concealed or underdeveloped. It is my role to help you understand your fundamental needs, history and challenges so you can realign with your strengths and wisdom; while uncovering whats blocking these resources. I work in a straightforward, compassionate and collaborative way to help you integrate thinking, feeling and intuition. The focus of my style is helping you become more confident and knowledgeable about yourself, your mind and relationships; while offering you the tools and guidance to do that.
Using methods backed by psychological research, I assist people in addressing anxiety, panic, high stress, depression, substance use, emotional overwhelm, relationship distress, intimacy issues, performance fears, transitions and trauma.
Psychotherapy is about change. I work grounded in the belief that we have innate resources for thriving and ease that become concealed or underdeveloped. It is my role to help you understand your fundamental needs, history and challenges so you can realign with your strengths and wisdom; while uncovering whats blocking these resources. I work in a straightforward, compassionate and collaborative way to help you integrate thinking, feeling and intuition. The focus of my style is helping you become more confident and knowledgeable about yourself, your mind and relationships; while offering you the tools and guidance to do that.
(510) 606-8993 View (510) 606-8993
Photo of Dr. Annette Holloway, Psychologist in Berkeley, CA
Dr. Annette Holloway
Psychologist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705
My approach is warm, collaborative and thoughtful. I aim to help you make the changes you want in your life: better relationships, improved mood, new tools for stress management, increased coping skills, more ability to process past hurts, feeling less stuck, and reduced substance use. The foundation of therapeutic work is your sense of feeling safe, listened to, and cared about during sessions. I genuinely want to understand your experiences, and provide insights into how you interact with yourself, others and the world at large. I work with people of all colors, ethnicities, religions, gender and sexual orientations.
My approach is warm, collaborative and thoughtful. I aim to help you make the changes you want in your life: better relationships, improved mood, new tools for stress management, increased coping skills, more ability to process past hurts, feeling less stuck, and reduced substance use. The foundation of therapeutic work is your sense of feeling safe, listened to, and cared about during sessions. I genuinely want to understand your experiences, and provide insights into how you interact with yourself, others and the world at large. I work with people of all colors, ethnicities, religions, gender and sexual orientations.
(415) 996-1651 View (415) 996-1651
Photo of Lucas Dangler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Berkeley, CA
Lucas Dangler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94720  (Online Only)
I provide teletherapy to clients in Pennsylvania and California (I am licensed in both states). I work with adults (18-65) who are struggling with trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, acute stress, substance use, and challenges with interpersonal relationships, major life transitions, coming out, gender, and queer identity development. I use EMDR therapy and client-centered, mindfulness-based, cognitive-behavioral interventions to support people in healing from traumatic experiences and unresolved grief by helping them reprocess disturbing, burdensome memories so that they become less intrusive, distracting, and painful.
I provide teletherapy to clients in Pennsylvania and California (I am licensed in both states). I work with adults (18-65) who are struggling with trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, acute stress, substance use, and challenges with interpersonal relationships, major life transitions, coming out, gender, and queer identity development. I use EMDR therapy and client-centered, mindfulness-based, cognitive-behavioral interventions to support people in healing from traumatic experiences and unresolved grief by helping them reprocess disturbing, burdensome memories so that they become less intrusive, distracting, and painful.
(610) 890-6555 View (610) 890-6555
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.