Therapists in Portland, ME
![Photo of Jennifer L Moss, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7d1c0d3-e402-4d69-a1f3-5e5485b55228/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer L Moss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04102
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling to manage anxiety related to pregnancy, depression connected to your changing life roles, past or recent trauma, or relationship changes due to any of these concerns? Hope & Harmony is here to help. I provide professional knowledge in these areas along with others to include: parenting, relationship challenges, substance use & addiction, codependency, and self-care and compassion. Life's daily struggles can sometimes feel overwhelming and unmanageable. During these times, it can feel reassuring to connect with a certified and licensed professional who can help you put things into perspective.
Are you struggling to manage anxiety related to pregnancy, depression connected to your changing life roles, past or recent trauma, or relationship changes due to any of these concerns? Hope & Harmony is here to help. I provide professional knowledge in these areas along with others to include: parenting, relationship challenges, substance use & addiction, codependency, and self-care and compassion. Life's daily struggles can sometimes feel overwhelming and unmanageable. During these times, it can feel reassuring to connect with a certified and licensed professional who can help you put things into perspective.
![Photo of Lb Brier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5226bd27-6292-40e1-b63e-a347b42dcff6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lb Brier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCAS, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
I often work with folks struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use addiction, and life transitions.
I strive to reach clients where they are holistically and enjoy working with people at every phase of their journey. My goal as a therapist is to establish an authentic and trusting relationship to work together to help you live a fulfilling life. I enjoy working with folks at every stage of their life journey, and understand that reaching out is a huge step for many people. I want to help folks realize their goals of self actualization, peace, contentment, and happiness.
I often work with folks struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use addiction, and life transitions.
I strive to reach clients where they are holistically and enjoy working with people at every phase of their journey. My goal as a therapist is to establish an authentic and trusting relationship to work together to help you live a fulfilling life. I enjoy working with folks at every stage of their life journey, and understand that reaching out is a huge step for many people. I want to help folks realize their goals of self actualization, peace, contentment, and happiness.
![Photo of Karen S Kantor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc366293-d704-46b6-b632-6f5458f71d1a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Karen S Kantor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Are you struggling to lead a bigger life? Is self-doubt, anxiety or depression getting in your way? I offer compassionate, non-judgmental treatment for adults struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, substance use and other issues. Using an integrated approach, I help clients create a toolbox of skills to use in times of distress, and provide a warm and supportive environment for self-exploration, growth and transformation.
Are you struggling to lead a bigger life? Is self-doubt, anxiety or depression getting in your way? I offer compassionate, non-judgmental treatment for adults struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, substance use and other issues. Using an integrated approach, I help clients create a toolbox of skills to use in times of distress, and provide a warm and supportive environment for self-exploration, growth and transformation.
![Photo of Sara Ann Therrien in Portland, ME](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfabfcb0-aba8-4a77-8e96-98b93b0e7fd7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sara Ann Therrien
MA, QMHP
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
For over ten years I have worked with people facing significant life challenges due to anxiety, substance use and family issues.
I help people who have anxiety, overwhelm or stressful relationships find clarity and serenity. In 2014, after years of talk therapy and recovery work, I became frustrated by the lack of progress in a few key areas. I decided to go deeper and I combined "parts work" with a mediation facilitation process. The healing I experienced was astounding. I researched other practitioners who were working at these deep levels, began studying evidence based techniques with Sarah Peyton, and I implemented these life changing models into my work. A past client posted: "Sara’s way of providing help creates peace in the battle zone of my brain."
For over ten years I have worked with people facing significant life challenges due to anxiety, substance use and family issues.
I help people who have anxiety, overwhelm or stressful relationships find clarity and serenity. In 2014, after years of talk therapy and recovery work, I became frustrated by the lack of progress in a few key areas. I decided to go deeper and I combined "parts work" with a mediation facilitation process. The healing I experienced was astounding. I researched other practitioners who were working at these deep levels, began studying evidence based techniques with Sarah Peyton, and I implemented these life changing models into my work. A past client posted: "Sara’s way of providing help creates peace in the battle zone of my brain."
![Photo of Donald E Kent, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53fdc9ab-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Donald E Kent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04102 (Online Only)
I have extensive experience with substance use disorders along with couples/family/co-dependency and grief work resulting from overdose.
I work with clients who struggle with addiction, depression, anxiety, past life events and trauma that prevent them from accepting themselves and fully embracing joy in their lives. Each person must confront their own challenges but don't always have the tools needed to reach their life goals. A trusted professional can be a helpful partner in walking this path with you until you have the skills/insights needed to continue your journey confidently. I offer a safe and respectful place to look at yourself, your situation, consider alternatives and practice new skills with my support to help reach your goals.
I have extensive experience with substance use disorders along with couples/family/co-dependency and grief work resulting from overdose.
I work with clients who struggle with addiction, depression, anxiety, past life events and trauma that prevent them from accepting themselves and fully embracing joy in their lives. Each person must confront their own challenges but don't always have the tools needed to reach their life goals. A trusted professional can be a helpful partner in walking this path with you until you have the skills/insights needed to continue your journey confidently. I offer a safe and respectful place to look at yourself, your situation, consider alternatives and practice new skills with my support to help reach your goals.
![Photo of Laura Pitcher, Counselor in Portland, ME](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96c94da6-cc55-4f37-a553-8315a4f278b5/1/320x400.png)
Laura Pitcher
Counselor, LCPC-C
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04102
My clinical training and experience have equipped me to understand and treat issues of substance use, mood disorders, trauma, and life transitions.
As your counselor, I will seek to understand and appreciate who you are as a person and the unique life experiences that you bring to our sessions. I offer a warm, caring, professional environment where we will honor your strengths, uncover areas of suffering, and discover new perspectives of your life story.
My clinical training and experience have equipped me to understand and treat issues of substance use, mood disorders, trauma, and life transitions.
As your counselor, I will seek to understand and appreciate who you are as a person and the unique life experiences that you bring to our sessions. I offer a warm, caring, professional environment where we will honor your strengths, uncover areas of suffering, and discover new perspectives of your life story.
![Photo of Sara Berry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b38a6de-78dd-405e-bf43-0cec32554321/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sara Berry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
I have experience working with individuals of all ages around issues including depression and anxiety, domestic violence, impacts of trauma and secondary trauma, and those impacted by substance use and mental health issues.
I am currently offering in person and telehealth sessions. Are you experiencing relationship or parenting issues? Stress at work? Anxiety or depression? Have you experienced trauma or secondary trauma? I want to offer you a safe and nonjudgmental space in order to navigate the challenges in life. With over 20 years in the social work field, including 6 years as a crisis response clinician, I will bring to the therapeutic process a compassionate, relational, and solution-focused approach.
I have experience working with individuals of all ages around issues including depression and anxiety, domestic violence, impacts of trauma and secondary trauma, and those impacted by substance use and mental health issues.
I am currently offering in person and telehealth sessions. Are you experiencing relationship or parenting issues? Stress at work? Anxiety or depression? Have you experienced trauma or secondary trauma? I want to offer you a safe and nonjudgmental space in order to navigate the challenges in life. With over 20 years in the social work field, including 6 years as a crisis response clinician, I will bring to the therapeutic process a compassionate, relational, and solution-focused approach.
![Photo of Julie Holden, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40258c5e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Holden, MSW, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Welcome to my practice. With over 25 years of experience, I have assisted children, adolescents and adults with challenging life transitions, self-improvement, substance use, aging, grief and losses, coaching and consultation services, addictions/recovery, anxiety and depression. I have worked in settings including middle and high school, community outpatient mental health, private practice, The Department of Defense and Veterans Administration. I genuinely care about developing a partnership with you to help you gain momentum, oftentimes including humor along the way.
Welcome to my practice. With over 25 years of experience, I have assisted children, adolescents and adults with challenging life transitions, self-improvement, substance use, aging, grief and losses, coaching and consultation services, addictions/recovery, anxiety and depression. I have worked in settings including middle and high school, community outpatient mental health, private practice, The Department of Defense and Veterans Administration. I genuinely care about developing a partnership with you to help you gain momentum, oftentimes including humor along the way.
![Photo of Vickie Mulkerin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, ME](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be7c9d9f-6dc4-42f0-92be-14c3d6d63f3e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Vickie Mulkerin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MD, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04104
As a former physician, I know that doctors and healthcare professionals can have unique needs in therapy. In addition to having jobs and lives that other therapists may find difficult to fully understand, many doctors do not access mental health or substance use counseling due to well-founded fears around confidentiality. I work with doctors, dentists, attorneys, healthcare providers, and high level executives to provide expert counseling with the highest degree of privacy and confidentiality available.
As a former physician, I know that doctors and healthcare professionals can have unique needs in therapy. In addition to having jobs and lives that other therapists may find difficult to fully understand, many doctors do not access mental health or substance use counseling due to well-founded fears around confidentiality. I work with doctors, dentists, attorneys, healthcare providers, and high level executives to provide expert counseling with the highest degree of privacy and confidentiality available.
![Photo of Justin Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20779f8b-d88b-4154-8eca-8d3ef834e57c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Justin Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
I specialize in working with people who experience substance use disorders and developmental trauma.
Please note that I am currently at capacity and unable to accept new patients at this time. There is wisdom in the ways we adapt to our environments, but they do not always serve us in the present moment. My aim is to help people identify their adaptive patterns and view them with compassion, while also learning what to hold and what to let go. As a neurobiological informed therapist, I aim to help people move from judgement, shame and isolation to curiosity, acceptance and connection.
I specialize in working with people who experience substance use disorders and developmental trauma.
Please note that I am currently at capacity and unable to accept new patients at this time. There is wisdom in the ways we adapt to our environments, but they do not always serve us in the present moment. My aim is to help people identify their adaptive patterns and view them with compassion, while also learning what to hold and what to let go. As a neurobiological informed therapist, I aim to help people move from judgement, shame and isolation to curiosity, acceptance and connection.
![Photo of Greg Perchik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc4067a6-ee81-49e1-8b3c-5ed18a0a0633/1/320x400.jpeg)
Greg Perchik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCS
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
I provide individual counseling to help people move through periods in their life that may cause them distress, and help them identify the tools to navigate the uncertainty or challenges they may be facing. I have been a practicing therapist and clinical supervisor for over 10 years and, through this experience, I have been privileged to work with a variety of individuals to help them navigate uncertain times. Through implementing empathy, rapport building, humor and goal setting I aim to help others feel that change is possible.
I provide individual counseling to help people move through periods in their life that may cause them distress, and help them identify the tools to navigate the uncertainty or challenges they may be facing. I have been a practicing therapist and clinical supervisor for over 10 years and, through this experience, I have been privileged to work with a variety of individuals to help them navigate uncertain times. Through implementing empathy, rapport building, humor and goal setting I aim to help others feel that change is possible.
15 Second Videos
Noah Dorius
Nanci W. Adair
Dr. Mitch and Lisa Marriages/Couples Workshops
Ronald Rj Reid
Lisa Love
Teresa Sosa
Daniel Perry Dryden
Rachael O'donnell
Jenna Ostrowski
![Photo of Manderson Counseling Services, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Portland, ME](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c711218-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Manderson Counseling Services
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADAC11, NAADAC, CCS, CCTP, DEEP
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
I believe in compassion and will meet you where you are. I understand addiction on a personal level and I know that trauma can separate you from people you love without your permission your heart is broken ; nothing seems to work and you are trying so hard. I hear you . Let me help you unravel the confusion I am a recognized trauma professional and have studied motivational interviewing with Stephen Andrews at the Health and Education Institute where I now practice. We do not have to suffer alone. I can take you into your unique avenue to peace with positive self regard and safety.
I believe in compassion and will meet you where you are. I understand addiction on a personal level and I know that trauma can separate you from people you love without your permission your heart is broken ; nothing seems to work and you are trying so hard. I hear you . Let me help you unravel the confusion I am a recognized trauma professional and have studied motivational interviewing with Stephen Andrews at the Health and Education Institute where I now practice. We do not have to suffer alone. I can take you into your unique avenue to peace with positive self regard and safety.
![Photo of Fran Rodenburg, Psychologist in Portland, ME](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4a753b7-2ccc-4b84-86c0-8278274714d7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Fran Rodenburg
Psychologist, PhD, LADC, RYT 500
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
You've taken the first step towards your personal healing. Whether you struggle with feeling sad, anxious, "stuck" or generally dissatisfied with life, there is hope. You can learn to cope and connect with your sense of purpose, self-worth, and fulfillment. With supportive, effective psychotherapy, you can discover your inner strengths and resources, and learn to channel them to make improvements in daily living. You will discover ways to make your work life and relationships more satisfying. With compassion and acceptance, you can approach life with new skills to achieve a life of courage, authenticity, and contentment.
You've taken the first step towards your personal healing. Whether you struggle with feeling sad, anxious, "stuck" or generally dissatisfied with life, there is hope. You can learn to cope and connect with your sense of purpose, self-worth, and fulfillment. With supportive, effective psychotherapy, you can discover your inner strengths and resources, and learn to channel them to make improvements in daily living. You will discover ways to make your work life and relationships more satisfying. With compassion and acceptance, you can approach life with new skills to achieve a life of courage, authenticity, and contentment.
![Photo of Noah Dorius, Counselor in Portland, ME](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44ccd3fe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Noah Dorius
Counselor, LCPC-C
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Is your life turning out the way you planned? Are your personal relationships fulfilling? Are you finding the right job for you? Do people get who you really are? Too often we lose track of the way we exist each day. Depression over past mistakes or anxiety about what might happen in the future prevent us from being who we want to be in the present. The goal of existential counseling is to help you develop a better relationship with your "self" first, and then to improve your relationships with others. To help you gain more confidence in the decisions you make daily and to worry less about how others will judge you in the future.
Is your life turning out the way you planned? Are your personal relationships fulfilling? Are you finding the right job for you? Do people get who you really are? Too often we lose track of the way we exist each day. Depression over past mistakes or anxiety about what might happen in the future prevent us from being who we want to be in the present. The goal of existential counseling is to help you develop a better relationship with your "self" first, and then to improve your relationships with others. To help you gain more confidence in the decisions you make daily and to worry less about how others will judge you in the future.
![Photo of Ali McGrath, Counselor in Portland, ME](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e25d96a-337f-4a63-a142-03d511929c88/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ali McGrath
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMHC, RYT, HT
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Hello, thank you for taking time to be here. Therapy is an investment in time, personal commitment, and money. My practice has shifted since COVID to seeing less people, for 60 to 90 minutes, and not accepting insurance. Hakomi, Mindfulness, Somatic Psychology, CBT and other modalities are part of the support provided as people move through grief (death, terminal illness, divorce...); healing past trauma, re-surfacing or ready to liberate from, the lies they embed in our narratives; and reclaiming the day to day wakefulness of being. Anxiety, depression, problems at the macro level, benefit from mindfulness and action, and therapy.
Hello, thank you for taking time to be here. Therapy is an investment in time, personal commitment, and money. My practice has shifted since COVID to seeing less people, for 60 to 90 minutes, and not accepting insurance. Hakomi, Mindfulness, Somatic Psychology, CBT and other modalities are part of the support provided as people move through grief (death, terminal illness, divorce...); healing past trauma, re-surfacing or ready to liberate from, the lies they embed in our narratives; and reclaiming the day to day wakefulness of being. Anxiety, depression, problems at the macro level, benefit from mindfulness and action, and therapy.
![Photo of Jane Abbott Look, Counselor in Portland, ME](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c5b3d93-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jane Abbott Look
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, CCS, DEEP
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04106 (Online Only)
CUSTOM COUNSELING, LLC is client centered-focused, counseling each unique individual with a personal approach, understanding and treatment. I believe that, if we don't have a 'connection', a relationship upon which to build trust and confidence in our work, we both won't succeed in our work together. Therefore, I spend as much time as needed, in order for that rapport, that connection, to be solid. Sometimes, it takes a brief time, in order to complete therapy with desired/ positive results; sometimes, it's a longer process. Our sessions don't end until we both feel confident and comfortable with our progress.
CUSTOM COUNSELING, LLC is client centered-focused, counseling each unique individual with a personal approach, understanding and treatment. I believe that, if we don't have a 'connection', a relationship upon which to build trust and confidence in our work, we both won't succeed in our work together. Therefore, I spend as much time as needed, in order for that rapport, that connection, to be solid. Sometimes, it takes a brief time, in order to complete therapy with desired/ positive results; sometimes, it's a longer process. Our sessions don't end until we both feel confident and comfortable with our progress.
![Photo of Kalie C. Harrington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, ME](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ae77b9d-3d8c-44f3-b5e1-b0646b957b12/7/320x400.jpeg)
Kalie C. Harrington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101 (Online Only)
Immediate openings via telehealth for Maine, Vermont + North Carolina clients - Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. I’m a trauma therapist who works with women, trans + non-binary teens + adults. I focus heavily on my client relationships to ensure you can feel safe and comfortable with me. While trauma is my specialty, I also find much meaning in helping women feel empowered by (instead of a prisoner to) their depression. My hope is to help you live your life in a more meaningful and self-compassionate way. You deserve all of the kindness and warmth.
Immediate openings via telehealth for Maine, Vermont + North Carolina clients - Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. I’m a trauma therapist who works with women, trans + non-binary teens + adults. I focus heavily on my client relationships to ensure you can feel safe and comfortable with me. While trauma is my specialty, I also find much meaning in helping women feel empowered by (instead of a prisoner to) their depression. My hope is to help you live your life in a more meaningful and self-compassionate way. You deserve all of the kindness and warmth.
![Photo of Barbara Loewenberg-Irlandy, Counselor in Portland, ME](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41c7e06c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Barbara Loewenberg-Irlandy
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
I have been in private practice since 1989 as a psychotherapist/LCPC. Psychotherapy is a respectful interaction between client and therapist. We arrive at answers together, answers that are specific to the individual client. Both short-term therapy and long-term therapy are provided. I work with adolescents, adults and couples.
I have been in private practice since 1989 as a psychotherapist/LCPC. Psychotherapy is a respectful interaction between client and therapist. We arrive at answers together, answers that are specific to the individual client. Both short-term therapy and long-term therapy are provided. I work with adolescents, adults and couples.
![Photo of Christine Drabek, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Portland, ME](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46682809-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christine Drabek
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC, MS, CCS
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
I am an Addictions Specialist with with 20+ years of professional experience in both NYC and Maine - in addition to personal experience with addiction and long term recovery.. most important factor when pursuing counseling is to find a "therapeutic alliance" that fits. I always recommend that clients consult with a few providers before choosing. Once a trusting alliance is established, I embark on a journey alongside my clients, which can be brief and solution-focused or longer term weekly sessions and ongoing support.
I am an Addictions Specialist with with 20+ years of professional experience in both NYC and Maine - in addition to personal experience with addiction and long term recovery.. most important factor when pursuing counseling is to find a "therapeutic alliance" that fits. I always recommend that clients consult with a few providers before choosing. Once a trusting alliance is established, I embark on a journey alongside my clients, which can be brief and solution-focused or longer term weekly sessions and ongoing support.
![Photo of Michael Tartaglia, Psychologist in Portland, ME](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f2add57-4595-4e59-bec8-c812157560a3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Tartaglia
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
I am licensed to provide telepsychology in Maine and 22 additional states across the US. There are a lot of therapists out there, so I will make an attempt to summarize my beliefs about therapy in three succinct points. First, therapy is not always easy. Second, it is a therapist's job to challenge you. And third, therapeutic rapport is paramount to establishing effective therapy. If this is what you are looking for, I welcome you to schedule an initial appointment.
I am licensed to provide telepsychology in Maine and 22 additional states across the US. There are a lot of therapists out there, so I will make an attempt to summarize my beliefs about therapy in three succinct points. First, therapy is not always easy. Second, it is a therapist's job to challenge you. And third, therapeutic rapport is paramount to establishing effective therapy. If this is what you are looking for, I welcome you to schedule an initial appointment.
See more therapy options for Portland
Nearby Substance Use Therapists Searches for Portland
- Cape Elizabeth
- Cumberland
- Falmouth
- Freeport
- Gorham
- Saco
- Scarborough
- South Portland
- Standish
- Westbrook
- Windham
- Yarmouth
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.