Substance Use Therapists in Ottawa, ON

Photo of Amanda Neilson, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Amanda Neilson
Registered Social Worker, CYW, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Y
Providing virtual sessions for folks across Ontario and in person or virtual sessions for Ottawa folks. For over 20 years, I have specialized in treating people with problematic substance use and substance use disorders. I work within a compassionate, collaborative, and trauma-informed approach. The right way to make meaningful change is the way that works best for you. I'm here to work with you on finding that way.
Providing virtual sessions for folks across Ontario and in person or virtual sessions for Ottawa folks. For over 20 years, I have specialized in treating people with problematic substance use and substance use disorders. I work within a compassionate, collaborative, and trauma-informed approach. The right way to make meaningful change is the way that works best for you. I'm here to work with you on finding that way.
(343) 304-6325 View (343) 304-6325
Photo of Wendy Nuttall, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Wendy Nuttall
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2E
Waitlist for new clients
If you are concerned with your teen's - or another loved one's - substance use, I provide education, early intervention or treatment for dependence.
If you've been struggling with your emotions, and have difficulty coping, I can help. Substance abuse, mood disorders, or BPD can impact your relationships and the way you view the world. I specialize in addiction, BPD, depression, emotion regulation problems. I have more than 25 years of experience with these, as well as anxiety and internet overuse. My approaches include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. Together we can work toward your mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
If you are concerned with your teen's - or another loved one's - substance use, I provide education, early intervention or treatment for dependence.
If you've been struggling with your emotions, and have difficulty coping, I can help. Substance abuse, mood disorders, or BPD can impact your relationships and the way you view the world. I specialize in addiction, BPD, depression, emotion regulation problems. I have more than 25 years of experience with these, as well as anxiety and internet overuse. My approaches include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. Together we can work toward your mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
(343) 306-4547 View (343) 306-4547
Photo of G. Jeffory Lucas, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor in Ottawa, ON
G. Jeffory Lucas
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, RP, CCAC, ICADC, CCTACP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P
Is it time for you, or someone you know, to finally 'Get Real', in their lives? At 'Get Real', Addiction Counselling, you will find an accredited, experienced and caring professional. The primary focus is comprehensive therapy for substance use or addiction, including behavioural problems and related con-current disorders such as ADHD, Anxiety & Depression. Clients include individuals and families struggling with the effect of substance abuse / addiction(s) on their lives. I am a Ontario Registered Psychotherapist, and hold both Canadian & American International Addiction Counselling Certificates.
Is it time for you, or someone you know, to finally 'Get Real', in their lives? At 'Get Real', Addiction Counselling, you will find an accredited, experienced and caring professional. The primary focus is comprehensive therapy for substance use or addiction, including behavioural problems and related con-current disorders such as ADHD, Anxiety & Depression. Clients include individuals and families struggling with the effect of substance abuse / addiction(s) on their lives. I am a Ontario Registered Psychotherapist, and hold both Canadian & American International Addiction Counselling Certificates.
(613) 704-4101 View (613) 704-4101
Photo of Natalie Guenette, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Natalie Guenette
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
Seeking professional help can be scary and intimidating. I aim to provide a safe and confidential space built on acceptance and openness. I provide therapy services in English and French to adults who wish to work on concerns including, but not limited to, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, interpersonal difficulties, emotional regulation, trauma/PTSD, and substance use and abuse. I work under the supervision of Dr. Karine Côté, Psy. D., C. Psych.
Seeking professional help can be scary and intimidating. I aim to provide a safe and confidential space built on acceptance and openness. I provide therapy services in English and French to adults who wish to work on concerns including, but not limited to, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, interpersonal difficulties, emotional regulation, trauma/PTSD, and substance use and abuse. I work under the supervision of Dr. Karine Côté, Psy. D., C. Psych.
(613) 604-0470 x704 View (613) 604-0470 x704
Photo of Autumn Legue, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Autumn Legue
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
I offer couples and individual counselling to youth (12+) and adults experiencing struggles with their mental health related to substance use, concurrent disorders, emotional regulation, stress, interpersonal challenges, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem/self-confidence. I will support you by working with you to tailor treatment that is reflective of your individual goals and needs. I am motivated to help clients reach their goals, increase personal insight, recognize their strengths and resilience to overcome their challenges, and to develop coping skills that will help facilitate positive change in their wellness journey,
I offer couples and individual counselling to youth (12+) and adults experiencing struggles with their mental health related to substance use, concurrent disorders, emotional regulation, stress, interpersonal challenges, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem/self-confidence. I will support you by working with you to tailor treatment that is reflective of your individual goals and needs. I am motivated to help clients reach their goals, increase personal insight, recognize their strengths and resilience to overcome their challenges, and to develop coping skills that will help facilitate positive change in their wellness journey,
(343) 800-0182 View (343) 800-0182
Photo of Natalie Séguin, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Natalie Séguin
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1K
If you are struggling, whether it be with mental illness(es); loneliness; feeling stuck; not knowing who you are, want you want, or why you are here; out of control thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and/or substance use; relationship issues; or if life is just really hard right now.
I believe the human experience is meant to be filled with joy and ease, along with some opportunities for growth, sometimes called challenges. Life can definitely become very challenging and everyone needs help along the way. I believe that when we can connect to our innermost selves, accept life’s challenges with grace, and treat ourselves and others with compassion and care, we can all live rich, meaningful lives. I know that we can and do recover from grief, mental illness, addiction, trauma, and all the hurts that life can throw at us.
If you are struggling, whether it be with mental illness(es); loneliness; feeling stuck; not knowing who you are, want you want, or why you are here; out of control thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and/or substance use; relationship issues; or if life is just really hard right now.
I believe the human experience is meant to be filled with joy and ease, along with some opportunities for growth, sometimes called challenges. Life can definitely become very challenging and everyone needs help along the way. I believe that when we can connect to our innermost selves, accept life’s challenges with grace, and treat ourselves and others with compassion and care, we can all live rich, meaningful lives. I know that we can and do recover from grief, mental illness, addiction, trauma, and all the hurts that life can throw at us.
(343) 312-5855 View (343) 312-5855
Photo of Tye Laframboise, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Tye Laframboise
Registered Social Worker, RSW/BSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1G  (Online Only)
I am a trans, queer and neurodivergent person, who is passionate about working within community. I am a Registered Social Worker in Ontario, and am currently practicing out of Pink Opal Counselling. I have a Bachelor of Social Work and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from McMaster University, and am currently completing my Master of Social Work, with a specialization of Gender and Women’s studies at Lakehead University. I specialize in working with queer, trans and neurodiverse communities, and in the area of substance use.
I am a trans, queer and neurodivergent person, who is passionate about working within community. I am a Registered Social Worker in Ontario, and am currently practicing out of Pink Opal Counselling. I have a Bachelor of Social Work and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from McMaster University, and am currently completing my Master of Social Work, with a specialization of Gender and Women’s studies at Lakehead University. I specialize in working with queer, trans and neurodiverse communities, and in the area of substance use.
(343) 321-2585 View (343) 321-2585
Photo of Katrina Hutchingame, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Katrina Hutchingame
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N  (Online Only)
I work with people that have challenges with Substance Use, Trauma, Relational issues, Sex and Sexuality.
I am a trauma therapist who specializes in eating disorders and addictions. I am frequently taken by the amount of pain and suffering in the world, I have learned that through these moments we can find the most growth, strength, and beauty. Often we can get stuck in-between these painful moments and a new way of being, That's often what brings people to therapy. Our work together may be a journey to help you get unstuck or out of the place of crisis and to find a sense of safety. I feel it is a privilege to be able to be a part of someone's journey and be able to walk along beside them.
I work with people that have challenges with Substance Use, Trauma, Relational issues, Sex and Sexuality.
I am a trauma therapist who specializes in eating disorders and addictions. I am frequently taken by the amount of pain and suffering in the world, I have learned that through these moments we can find the most growth, strength, and beauty. Often we can get stuck in-between these painful moments and a new way of being, That's often what brings people to therapy. Our work together may be a journey to help you get unstuck or out of the place of crisis and to find a sense of safety. I feel it is a privilege to be able to be a part of someone's journey and be able to walk along beside them.
(613) 699-3396 View (613) 699-3396
Photo of Wendy Elizabeth Brown, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Wendy Elizabeth Brown
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, ICADC, ICCS, CCAC
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2A  (Online Only)
Wendy Brown is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. As well, she is a seasoned veteran in the field of Addiction Counselling for over 30 years. Wendy's practice and experience has focused on the continuum of treatment, including harm reduction, stabilization, abstinence and relapse prevention depending on each individuals goals. She specializes in Issues of mental health and substance use for adults, young adults and youth. Challenges such as internal and external stressors such as grief, trauma, emotional regulation and issues related to the Criminal Justice System.
Wendy Brown is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. As well, she is a seasoned veteran in the field of Addiction Counselling for over 30 years. Wendy's practice and experience has focused on the continuum of treatment, including harm reduction, stabilization, abstinence and relapse prevention depending on each individuals goals. She specializes in Issues of mental health and substance use for adults, young adults and youth. Challenges such as internal and external stressors such as grief, trauma, emotional regulation and issues related to the Criminal Justice System.
(343) 307-4969 View (343) 307-4969
Photo of Whitney Wesley, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Whitney Wesley
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1Z  (Online Only)
If you're facing problematic substance use or addiction you probably feel tired, out of control, and maybe even hopeless. The good news is, there is hope and you're not alone. Addiction comes in many different forms and is a complex issue to manage. If you or someone you love are looking for help or support please reach out. I support people with substance use, misuse, abuse, dependence, mental health concerns, as well as their family and friends who often feel uncertain as to how to move forward.
If you're facing problematic substance use or addiction you probably feel tired, out of control, and maybe even hopeless. The good news is, there is hope and you're not alone. Addiction comes in many different forms and is a complex issue to manage. If you or someone you love are looking for help or support please reach out. I support people with substance use, misuse, abuse, dependence, mental health concerns, as well as their family and friends who often feel uncertain as to how to move forward.
(873) 514-5015 View (873) 514-5015
Photo of Lindsay Abrames, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Lindsay Abrames
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K0A
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of secrecy, shame, and isolation that often accompanies alcohol and/or substance use? Maybe you are wondering if you have a problem with substances, are contemplating change, or are interested in relapse prevention to sustain your gains in recovery. Alternatively, are you exhausted and feeling helpless as you navigate a loved one’s substance use and mental health concerns? Perhaps you are worried about your own well-being and want to reconnect with yourself. I also support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, chronic stress, and major life transitions.
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of secrecy, shame, and isolation that often accompanies alcohol and/or substance use? Maybe you are wondering if you have a problem with substances, are contemplating change, or are interested in relapse prevention to sustain your gains in recovery. Alternatively, are you exhausted and feeling helpless as you navigate a loved one’s substance use and mental health concerns? Perhaps you are worried about your own well-being and want to reconnect with yourself. I also support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief/loss, chronic stress, and major life transitions.
(343) 321-0790 View (343) 321-0790
Photo of Dave Neary Registered Psychotherapist , Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Dave Neary Registered Psychotherapist
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MEd
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K0A
Although I work with a wide range of client issues, a few of my counseling specialties are Men's Issues, Substance Use, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Relationships (individuals only), OCD, Bi-polar Disorder, Veterans, 1st Responders and L.
Accepting New Clients - As Available: I am a caring and empathic psychotherapist who works from a strengths-based approach and help people to resolve troubling issues in their lives. My services are tailored to your needs. My goal is for you to live a more peaceful and balanced life and to learn coping strategies to carry with you after counselling is completed. As in all counselling, we will work together to find solutions to the issues you bring to the counselling session. Visit my website at nearycounsellingkingston.ca
Although I work with a wide range of client issues, a few of my counseling specialties are Men's Issues, Substance Use, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Relationships (individuals only), OCD, Bi-polar Disorder, Veterans, 1st Responders and L.
Accepting New Clients - As Available: I am a caring and empathic psychotherapist who works from a strengths-based approach and help people to resolve troubling issues in their lives. My services are tailored to your needs. My goal is for you to live a more peaceful and balanced life and to learn coping strategies to carry with you after counselling is completed. As in all counselling, we will work together to find solutions to the issues you bring to the counselling session. Visit my website at nearycounsellingkingston.ca
(613) 704-5832 View (613) 704-5832
Photo of Madison Cruickshank, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Madison Cruickshank
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R  (Online Only)
I bring more than a decade of experience working with those living with trauma(s), substance use disorders, and other relational or mental health-related concerns.
I trust that every person is the expert of their own life and experiences. I hold the belief that everyone has what they need, within themselves, to heal, and I enjoy walking alongside to support folks in accessing these strengths and resources. I strive to establish trusting and collaborative relationships that create a safe space for exploration and growth. I work from a person-centered and trauma-informed lens, while integrating a variety of modalities including Internal Family Systems, ACT, DBT, somatic and mindfulness-based interventions.
I bring more than a decade of experience working with those living with trauma(s), substance use disorders, and other relational or mental health-related concerns.
I trust that every person is the expert of their own life and experiences. I hold the belief that everyone has what they need, within themselves, to heal, and I enjoy walking alongside to support folks in accessing these strengths and resources. I strive to establish trusting and collaborative relationships that create a safe space for exploration and growth. I work from a person-centered and trauma-informed lens, while integrating a variety of modalities including Internal Family Systems, ACT, DBT, somatic and mindfulness-based interventions.
(587) 871-8418 View (587) 871-8418
Photo of Max Monoogian, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Max Monoogian
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1Z
Waitlist for new clients
I work collaboratively with clients to explore and process past and current experiences that include early childhood and attachment trauma; combat trauma; grief and loss; life transitions; relationship concerns; substance use; eating disorders; and anxiety and depression.
Suffering is an inherent part of the human experience. However, we often feel that we are alone in our suffering, that no one can relate to our experiences, or that we don’t deserve to find peace in our lives. This can create feelings of frustration and despair, and we begin to feel stuck, unable to connect with others. Fear of judgement, along with our vulnerabilities can keep us from reaching out when we need it the most. I am confident that every person holds an innate understanding of what they need to heal and grow. Grounded in compassion, humility, and curiosity, my aim is to co-create a safe, open space for self-exploration.
I work collaboratively with clients to explore and process past and current experiences that include early childhood and attachment trauma; combat trauma; grief and loss; life transitions; relationship concerns; substance use; eating disorders; and anxiety and depression.
Suffering is an inherent part of the human experience. However, we often feel that we are alone in our suffering, that no one can relate to our experiences, or that we don’t deserve to find peace in our lives. This can create feelings of frustration and despair, and we begin to feel stuck, unable to connect with others. Fear of judgement, along with our vulnerabilities can keep us from reaching out when we need it the most. I am confident that every person holds an innate understanding of what they need to heal and grow. Grounded in compassion, humility, and curiosity, my aim is to co-create a safe, open space for self-exploration.
(343) 312-6976 View (343) 312-6976
Photo of Nick Delroy, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Nick Delroy
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2H  (Online Only)
Substance use, trauma and mental health issues can put a significant dent in someone's quality of life. From simply being uncomfortable with how much you are using, or how it is affecting your life, to wishing you could shut your brain or your memories off; to being suicidal or at risk of overdose. You don't need to do this alone. Talking to someone who has seen and helped others with these things can be immensely relieving. If your teenager is going through these problems, it is also relieving to know they are talking to someone about them. Trying to parent a teenager while they are going through this chaos can be challenging.
Substance use, trauma and mental health issues can put a significant dent in someone's quality of life. From simply being uncomfortable with how much you are using, or how it is affecting your life, to wishing you could shut your brain or your memories off; to being suicidal or at risk of overdose. You don't need to do this alone. Talking to someone who has seen and helped others with these things can be immensely relieving. If your teenager is going through these problems, it is also relieving to know they are talking to someone about them. Trying to parent a teenager while they are going through this chaos can be challenging.
(844) 812-8763 View (844) 812-8763
Photo of Maaike de Graaf, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Maaike de Graaf
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, BSc
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2A
As a Psychotherapist, I strive to provide a safe, judgement-free, compassionate and growth-focused space for my clients, where their voices can be heard and encouragement is given to explore new ways of relating to difficult thoughts, feelings, memories and experiences. I have 14 years of extensive experience working with children, teenagers and adults facing diverse challenges including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicidal ideation. As a Queer therapist, I am passionate about working with fellow Queer/2SLGBTQ+ folks and allies, and love supporting clients throughout their identity journey.
As a Psychotherapist, I strive to provide a safe, judgement-free, compassionate and growth-focused space for my clients, where their voices can be heard and encouragement is given to explore new ways of relating to difficult thoughts, feelings, memories and experiences. I have 14 years of extensive experience working with children, teenagers and adults facing diverse challenges including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicidal ideation. As a Queer therapist, I am passionate about working with fellow Queer/2SLGBTQ+ folks and allies, and love supporting clients throughout their identity journey.
(613) 704-4176 View (613) 704-4176
Photo of Laura Randolph, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Laura Randolph
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2A  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have been working in clinical and community settings in mental health and addictions since 2011. I am honoured to support individual adults who are experiencing grief due to death or other loss, self-esteem and relationship issues, substance use, depression, anxiety, and traumatic injury. We all have within us a resilience to confront and handle even the most challenging of issues and I have such admiration of an individual's courage to explore and seek guidance in enhancing the quality of their life. A confidential, compassionate, and personalized approach to care is my priority.
I have been working in clinical and community settings in mental health and addictions since 2011. I am honoured to support individual adults who are experiencing grief due to death or other loss, self-esteem and relationship issues, substance use, depression, anxiety, and traumatic injury. We all have within us a resilience to confront and handle even the most challenging of issues and I have such admiration of an individual's courage to explore and seek guidance in enhancing the quality of their life. A confidential, compassionate, and personalized approach to care is my priority.
(613) 704-5471 View (613) 704-5471
Photo of Melissa Philpott, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Melissa Philpott
Registered Social Worker, MSW,, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1P
I have additional training to support individuals with Disorder Eating/Eating Disorders, substance use/harm reduction, suicide intervention and sexual violence.
My work is guided by curiosity, connection and is rooted in values of authentic collaboration. My therapeutic foundations are rooted within relational, client-directed, strengths perspective, trauma-informed, feminist and structural frameworks. With a deep sense of compassion and respect, I seek to create a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space that facilitates self-awareness, healing and growth. Together, we can begin to tease apart the adaptive approaches to dealing with and moving through life you've grown accustomed to, and begin to untangle patterns that are serving you, and patterns you may be interested in moving beyond.
I have additional training to support individuals with Disorder Eating/Eating Disorders, substance use/harm reduction, suicide intervention and sexual violence.
My work is guided by curiosity, connection and is rooted in values of authentic collaboration. My therapeutic foundations are rooted within relational, client-directed, strengths perspective, trauma-informed, feminist and structural frameworks. With a deep sense of compassion and respect, I seek to create a warm, safe, and non-judgmental space that facilitates self-awareness, healing and growth. Together, we can begin to tease apart the adaptive approaches to dealing with and moving through life you've grown accustomed to, and begin to untangle patterns that are serving you, and patterns you may be interested in moving beyond.
(613) 416-3631 View (613) 416-3631
Photo of Melanie Le Voguer, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Melanie Le Voguer
Registered Psychotherapist, M Ed, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N
Hello there! Do you find yourself feeling tired, uninspired, disconnected from others, often feeling worried about anything or everything? Or perhaps you notice yourself turning to substance use to manage tough feelings? If you recognize yourself as living any of these experiences, you aren’t alone, and you definitely don’t have to go through it alone.
Hello there! Do you find yourself feeling tired, uninspired, disconnected from others, often feeling worried about anything or everything? Or perhaps you notice yourself turning to substance use to manage tough feelings? If you recognize yourself as living any of these experiences, you aren’t alone, and you definitely don’t have to go through it alone.
(343) 313-0638 View (343) 313-0638
Photo of Dr. Heather Schultz Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Dr. Heather Schultz Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2C
Schultz enjoys working with individuals with a wide range of presenting concerns, including anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, body focused repetitive behaviours (hairpulling &skin-picking), depression, emotion dysregulation and anger management, low self-worth/self-esteem, grief/loss, and mild alcohol/substance use.
Assessments - Accepting Clients; Therapy Waitlist - Accepting Clients - Dr. Heather Schultz received her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Toledo in 2020. She completed her residency at The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre, and recently completed her supervised practice year providing psychological services in a private practice clinic in the Ottawa area. She has received training in a variety of clinical settings including hospitals, community mental health centres, forensic sites, and private practice.
Schultz enjoys working with individuals with a wide range of presenting concerns, including anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, body focused repetitive behaviours (hairpulling &skin-picking), depression, emotion dysregulation and anger management, low self-worth/self-esteem, grief/loss, and mild alcohol/substance use.
Assessments - Accepting Clients; Therapy Waitlist - Accepting Clients - Dr. Heather Schultz received her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Toledo in 2020. She completed her residency at The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre, and recently completed her supervised practice year providing psychological services in a private practice clinic in the Ottawa area. She has received training in a variety of clinical settings including hospitals, community mental health centres, forensic sites, and private practice.
(343) 312-5358 View (343) 312-5358

See more therapy options for Ottawa

Substance Use Counsellors

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, counsellors, 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.