Substance Use Therapists in 01970

Photo of Paul Falconer, Counselor in 01970, MA
Paul Falconer
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LADC1, MCCS
Verified Verified
Salem, MA 01970  (Online Only)
My experience with a diverse group of clients in a variety of settings has led to several specialties: Dual-Diagnosis Counseling for individuals with both mental health and substance use difficulties; Adjustment Counseling for individuals coping with aging, health challenges, and disability; Clinical Supervision for graduate students and Licensure Candidates.
Thank you for your interest in my Teleheath Counseling Services. I do have a few openings for adults who are not court involved. I offer a welcoming and supportive environment where I use my 20 years of mental health and substance abuse counseling experience to help Individuals attain their personal, relationship, and health-based goals. I take a person-centered, strengths-based approach to help with the identification of issues, concerns, and other barriers to self-understanding and well-being. This leads to improved insight and goal clarity, with problem-solving and coping skills tailored to this need.
My experience with a diverse group of clients in a variety of settings has led to several specialties: Dual-Diagnosis Counseling for individuals with both mental health and substance use difficulties; Adjustment Counseling for individuals coping with aging, health challenges, and disability; Clinical Supervision for graduate students and Licensure Candidates.
Thank you for your interest in my Teleheath Counseling Services. I do have a few openings for adults who are not court involved. I offer a welcoming and supportive environment where I use my 20 years of mental health and substance abuse counseling experience to help Individuals attain their personal, relationship, and health-based goals. I take a person-centered, strengths-based approach to help with the identification of issues, concerns, and other barriers to self-understanding and well-being. This leads to improved insight and goal clarity, with problem-solving and coping skills tailored to this need.
(978) 712-4968 View (978) 712-4968
Photo of David Selden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01970, MA
David Selden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, MA 01970
*** I am offering tele-therapy through video or phone- NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** I have over 35 years of training and experience in the field of behavioral health. I draw on this and my experiences as an amateur athlete and youth sport coach to engage and work with my clients. My specialty is working with teens, adults and their families who are experiencing difficulties from substance use and related mood disorders. I provide a non-judgmental, non-critical opportunity to discuss and work through life challenges. The result is a collaborative process based on a plan of your choosing.
*** I am offering tele-therapy through video or phone- NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** I have over 35 years of training and experience in the field of behavioral health. I draw on this and my experiences as an amateur athlete and youth sport coach to engage and work with my clients. My specialty is working with teens, adults and their families who are experiencing difficulties from substance use and related mood disorders. I provide a non-judgmental, non-critical opportunity to discuss and work through life challenges. The result is a collaborative process based on a plan of your choosing.
(617) 500-6183 View (617) 500-6183
Photo of Evolve Psychotherapy, LLC, Counselor in 01970, MA
Evolve Psychotherapy, LLC
Counselor, LMFT, LMHC, LADC-I, LICSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Salem, MA 01970
We offer a non-judgmental space to explore the impact of trauma, relationship challenges, mood disorders, life adjustments, substance use & other challenges on your life & relationships.
At Evolve Psychotherapy, our compassionate therapists have a wide range of expertise, experience, and treatment options. We believe that people change by feeling motivated and by seeing the benefit of making a difficult change. We provide psychotherapy and education that offers motivational treatment to utilize strengths and help you decide what changes to make and how you will go about it. Using a solution-focused method of treatment, we see the work of a therapist as a collaborative partner in the process of change & healing. We believe in increasing mind-body awareness to assist in this process.
We offer a non-judgmental space to explore the impact of trauma, relationship challenges, mood disorders, life adjustments, substance use & other challenges on your life & relationships.
At Evolve Psychotherapy, our compassionate therapists have a wide range of expertise, experience, and treatment options. We believe that people change by feeling motivated and by seeing the benefit of making a difficult change. We provide psychotherapy and education that offers motivational treatment to utilize strengths and help you decide what changes to make and how you will go about it. Using a solution-focused method of treatment, we see the work of a therapist as a collaborative partner in the process of change & healing. We believe in increasing mind-body awareness to assist in this process.
(603) 899-7245 View (603) 899-7245
Photo of Christine LaClair, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01970, MA
Christine LaClair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LADC 1
Verified Verified
Salem, MA 01970  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a specialist in the field of substance use disorders, utilizing Motivational Interviewing and the Stages of Change to help people make meaningful change in their lives.
Are you feeling ready to test the waters by looking inward with curiosity? Do you want to thrive and not just survive? I can help you move in the direction of your authentic self with empathy and clarity. I am a proud member of the queer community and I welcome those who identify as LGBTQ+. I am a tuned-in listener and I create a safe space for you to explore and express yourself freely. My work is centered on the whole self, and I approach every session with openness, curiosity, and a calm demeanor.
I am a specialist in the field of substance use disorders, utilizing Motivational Interviewing and the Stages of Change to help people make meaningful change in their lives.
Are you feeling ready to test the waters by looking inward with curiosity? Do you want to thrive and not just survive? I can help you move in the direction of your authentic self with empathy and clarity. I am a proud member of the queer community and I welcome those who identify as LGBTQ+. I am a tuned-in listener and I create a safe space for you to explore and express yourself freely. My work is centered on the whole self, and I approach every session with openness, curiosity, and a calm demeanor.
(508) 501-0970 View (508) 501-0970
Photo of Life's Crossroads Therapy, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in 01970, MA
Life's Crossroads Therapy
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LADCI
Verified Verified
Salem, MA 01970
I believe that everyone goes through struggles and sometimes needs a little help to navigate the crossroads in life. I will work with you to create a specialized personal plan to help you achieve your goals in recovery from Substance use, Behavioral addictions, Trauma, ADHD, Relationship issues and Dual-diagnosis. Set up your appointment for a free consultation to see how I can help. My approach to therapy is integrative, combining CBT, Person Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness skills to heal both body and mind. I am passionate and committed to helping others achieve their goals and to live a balanced and fulfilled life.
I believe that everyone goes through struggles and sometimes needs a little help to navigate the crossroads in life. I will work with you to create a specialized personal plan to help you achieve your goals in recovery from Substance use, Behavioral addictions, Trauma, ADHD, Relationship issues and Dual-diagnosis. Set up your appointment for a free consultation to see how I can help. My approach to therapy is integrative, combining CBT, Person Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness skills to heal both body and mind. I am passionate and committed to helping others achieve their goals and to live a balanced and fulfilled life.
(978) 300-8989 View (978) 300-8989
Photo of Arlene Small, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in 01970, MA
Arlene Small
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADCI
Verified Verified
Salem, MA 01970  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Therapist with 16 years of experience in the field of Mental Health and Addiction Treatment. I enjoy working with Adults, Children and Adolescents, LGBTQ Population, as well as Couples and Families where substance use is creating challenges. I find it is important to provide clients with Evidenced-Based Treatment and Individualized Treatment plans that are Solution Focused. Seeking therapy can be difficult; I will provide you with a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment to ensure your comfort.
I am a Licensed Therapist with 16 years of experience in the field of Mental Health and Addiction Treatment. I enjoy working with Adults, Children and Adolescents, LGBTQ Population, as well as Couples and Families where substance use is creating challenges. I find it is important to provide clients with Evidenced-Based Treatment and Individualized Treatment plans that are Solution Focused. Seeking therapy can be difficult; I will provide you with a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment to ensure your comfort.
(978) 300-8936 View (978) 300-8936
Photo of Heidi Vega Cavanaugh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01970, MA
Heidi Vega Cavanaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, MA 01970  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Note: Email is the best way to reach me for faster reply. I am a therapist who is passionate about helping my clients regain (or maybe gain for the first time) a true sense of self. Addiction, old behavior patterns, unhealthy coping mechanisms... they can all derail us from discovering our authenticity and our purpose in life. I have experience in helping clients of all backgrounds move into recovery from alcohol and substance use disorders, behavioral addictions, anxiety disorders, and depression.
Note: Email is the best way to reach me for faster reply. I am a therapist who is passionate about helping my clients regain (or maybe gain for the first time) a true sense of self. Addiction, old behavior patterns, unhealthy coping mechanisms... they can all derail us from discovering our authenticity and our purpose in life. I have experience in helping clients of all backgrounds move into recovery from alcohol and substance use disorders, behavioral addictions, anxiety disorders, and depression.
(857) 424-0779 View (857) 424-0779
Photo of RJ Tolan Counseling Group LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01970, MA
RJ Tolan Counseling Group LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CAI
Verified Verified
Salem, MA 01970
I have 15 years experience working with individuals and families battling confusing effects of substance use. I provide an environment free of pressure or judgement for exploring how substance use impacts your life, as an individual or a family member. We will navigate through the unpredictable and difficult circumstances life can bring. This relationship provides support and self-knowledge as we learn how we can contribute to solutions and/or problems. Learning concrete education, skills and tools to handle people, places and situations will help to move forward in our lives, resulting in increased self-confidence and serenity.
I have 15 years experience working with individuals and families battling confusing effects of substance use. I provide an environment free of pressure or judgement for exploring how substance use impacts your life, as an individual or a family member. We will navigate through the unpredictable and difficult circumstances life can bring. This relationship provides support and self-knowledge as we learn how we can contribute to solutions and/or problems. Learning concrete education, skills and tools to handle people, places and situations will help to move forward in our lives, resulting in increased self-confidence and serenity.
(781) 780-6478 View (781) 780-6478
Photo of David Lavin, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01970, MA
David Lavin, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LICSW, RMT
Verified Verified
Salem, MA 01970  (Online Only)
Treating: anxiety, depression, substance use, LGBTQ issues, self-esteem, relationships, transitions & communication.
ACCEPTING clients. TELEMEDICINE ONLY; Days vary. 21+ only. Short-term therapy (12-18 mos generally). Offering traditional counseling (insurance & private pay) & spiritual guidance (private pay). Therapy provided through HIPAA-secure portal online (VSee) or phone (if insurance allows audio-only). All sessions conducted virtually (distance). Admitting paperwork is mailed & must be received prior to scheduling intake (2-wk average on admit). Deadlines apply. Send e-mail for specific office details to gauge if this part-time practice may be a match for your situation. Visit www.moonhollowsalem.com/energywork for spiritual guidance info.
Treating: anxiety, depression, substance use, LGBTQ issues, self-esteem, relationships, transitions & communication.
ACCEPTING clients. TELEMEDICINE ONLY; Days vary. 21+ only. Short-term therapy (12-18 mos generally). Offering traditional counseling (insurance & private pay) & spiritual guidance (private pay). Therapy provided through HIPAA-secure portal online (VSee) or phone (if insurance allows audio-only). All sessions conducted virtually (distance). Admitting paperwork is mailed & must be received prior to scheduling intake (2-wk average on admit). Deadlines apply. Send e-mail for specific office details to gauge if this part-time practice may be a match for your situation. Visit www.moonhollowsalem.com/energywork for spiritual guidance info.
(617) 420-8509 View (617) 420-8509
Photo of Rebecca Van Dyke, LMHC, LLC, Counselor in 01970, MA
Rebecca Van Dyke, LMHC, LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, MA 01970
In addition, after working in different modalities and levels of substance use treatment, I am proficient in helping clients navigate the best path to support, both for those struggling with substance use as well as families and loved ones.
Welcome! I know that life can be difficult, even excruciating at times and I am deeply passionate about providing a safe/non-judgmental space for clients to explore ways to manage and grow through all seasons of life. I am the owner and provider of Rebecca Van Dyke, LMHC, LLC and would consider it a privilege to come alongside and aid you in your journey. As an integrative therapist who has been in practice for the last 8 years, I strive to combine a trusting environment with strength based therapeutic models such as: CBT, ACT, IFS, harm reduction and more to provide the best care for each client based on their unique needs.
In addition, after working in different modalities and levels of substance use treatment, I am proficient in helping clients navigate the best path to support, both for those struggling with substance use as well as families and loved ones.
Welcome! I know that life can be difficult, even excruciating at times and I am deeply passionate about providing a safe/non-judgmental space for clients to explore ways to manage and grow through all seasons of life. I am the owner and provider of Rebecca Van Dyke, LMHC, LLC and would consider it a privilege to come alongside and aid you in your journey. As an integrative therapist who has been in practice for the last 8 years, I strive to combine a trusting environment with strength based therapeutic models such as: CBT, ACT, IFS, harm reduction and more to provide the best care for each client based on their unique needs.
(978) 288-1275 View (978) 288-1275
Photo of Gina Hart, Hart Counseling and Consulting, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01970, MA
Gina Hart, Hart Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LADC1
Verified Verified
Salem, MA 01970  (Online Only)
My primary specialty is Substance Use Disorder.
Hello! My name is Gina Hart and I am a Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. There are many reasons why people seek out therapy. My goal is to help clients build self-awareness through exploration of the past, developing tools and strategies to use in times of challenge, and new perspective taking in order to build a more positive story of your life and experiences.
My primary specialty is Substance Use Disorder.
Hello! My name is Gina Hart and I am a Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. There are many reasons why people seek out therapy. My goal is to help clients build self-awareness through exploration of the past, developing tools and strategies to use in times of challenge, and new perspective taking in order to build a more positive story of your life and experiences.
(617) 741-9003 View (617) 741-9003
Photo of Michael Visconti, Counselor in 01970, MA
Michael Visconti
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Salem, MA 01970  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience in treating mood disorders, anxiety, substance use disorders, trauma, and major life adjustments in a variety of settings including outpatient, educational, and residential.
I welcome and invite you to take your next steps towards the road of reflection, progression, and growth. As intimidating as this might seem, it can always help to have a therapist’s support along the way. If it feels like I might be a sound fit for your journey, please reach out to me today via phone or email (preferable) to schedule a free consultation.
I have experience in treating mood disorders, anxiety, substance use disorders, trauma, and major life adjustments in a variety of settings including outpatient, educational, and residential.
I welcome and invite you to take your next steps towards the road of reflection, progression, and growth. As intimidating as this might seem, it can always help to have a therapist’s support along the way. If it feels like I might be a sound fit for your journey, please reach out to me today via phone or email (preferable) to schedule a free consultation.
(508) 709-7356 View (508) 709-7356
Photo of The Rutledge Group, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in 01970, MA
The Rutledge Group
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MEd, LADC-1, CTS, MHC
Verified Verified
Salem, MA 01970  (Online Only)
Upon establishing a collaborative working alliance, we will explore the impact substance use disorder have had on your lifestyle, job, and relationships.
Taking the first step towards making a change in your life is undeniably difficult. My approach will empower you to gain confidence and develop coping skills needed to help improve many aspects of the quality of your life. As a "Person-Centered" therapist, safety and security remain paramount during these unprecedented times. To mitigate the spread of COVID-19, I'm offering Telehealth Videoconferencing to ensure patients have rapid access to care they need to get and stay healthy. My specialties include Alcohol and Drug Counseling, Veterans Services, MAT, Dual Diagnosis, PTSD, Anxiety, and Depression. Free Initial Consultation.
Upon establishing a collaborative working alliance, we will explore the impact substance use disorder have had on your lifestyle, job, and relationships.
Taking the first step towards making a change in your life is undeniably difficult. My approach will empower you to gain confidence and develop coping skills needed to help improve many aspects of the quality of your life. As a "Person-Centered" therapist, safety and security remain paramount during these unprecedented times. To mitigate the spread of COVID-19, I'm offering Telehealth Videoconferencing to ensure patients have rapid access to care they need to get and stay healthy. My specialties include Alcohol and Drug Counseling, Veterans Services, MAT, Dual Diagnosis, PTSD, Anxiety, and Depression. Free Initial Consultation.
(617) 606-5769 View (617) 606-5769
Photo of Jack Levin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01970, MA
Jack Levin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Salem, MA 01970  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker I have worked within a variety of settings with diverse individuals providing me with numerous and valuable experiences. My career has given me the ability to independently conduct assessments and provide help to a wide variety of individuals from various socio-economic, cultural, ethnic, educational and other diversified backgrounds. My career has allowed me to complete a range of advanced social work methods with families, individuals and groups demonstrating skills in casework with even the most difficult clients and their families.
As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker I have worked within a variety of settings with diverse individuals providing me with numerous and valuable experiences. My career has given me the ability to independently conduct assessments and provide help to a wide variety of individuals from various socio-economic, cultural, ethnic, educational and other diversified backgrounds. My career has allowed me to complete a range of advanced social work methods with families, individuals and groups demonstrating skills in casework with even the most difficult clients and their families.
(781) 780-2689 View (781) 780-2689
Photo of Joanne Sullivan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01970, MA
Joanne Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, MA 01970  (Online Only)
Life can be challenging. Perhaps you're experiencing anxiety or depression, are struggling with substance abuse disorder, or are feeling down and can't quite put your finger on why. As a therapist, my goal is to help you identify why you are seeking therapy, and to do that in a safe, empathic, and non-judgmental space.
Life can be challenging. Perhaps you're experiencing anxiety or depression, are struggling with substance abuse disorder, or are feeling down and can't quite put your finger on why. As a therapist, my goal is to help you identify why you are seeking therapy, and to do that in a safe, empathic, and non-judgmental space.
(978) 510-6202 View (978) 510-6202
Photo of Donna Blume, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01970, MA
Donna Blume
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Salem, MA 01970
Hello, my name is Donna Blume and I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 40 years. I have an open heart and an open mind and I am told by my clients that I have a great sense of humor. Although psychotherapy is a serious business there are times when a sense of humor is very useful. My approach is gentle and direct. My clients also tell me that they feel comfortable with me almost immediately. I am a down to earth person with a down to earth approach.
Hello, my name is Donna Blume and I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 40 years. I have an open heart and an open mind and I am told by my clients that I have a great sense of humor. Although psychotherapy is a serious business there are times when a sense of humor is very useful. My approach is gentle and direct. My clients also tell me that they feel comfortable with me almost immediately. I am a down to earth person with a down to earth approach.
(978) 306-4574 View (978) 306-4574
Photo of Dr. Jeanne McKeon, Psychologist in 01970, MA
Dr. Jeanne McKeon
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Salem, MA 01970
I am a licensed psychologist with over three decades of experience. Presently, I am in private practice seeing adolescents and adults for a wide variety of psychological concerns, couples struggles and addiction. Additionally, over the past 5 years I have been a consultant for Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital inside multiple primary care sites, treating patients in a primary care setting. Previously, I was a Senior Supervising Psychologist at Massachusetts General Hospital for over a decade and a Clinical Instructor in the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School
I am a licensed psychologist with over three decades of experience. Presently, I am in private practice seeing adolescents and adults for a wide variety of psychological concerns, couples struggles and addiction. Additionally, over the past 5 years I have been a consultant for Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital inside multiple primary care sites, treating patients in a primary care setting. Previously, I was a Senior Supervising Psychologist at Massachusetts General Hospital for over a decade and a Clinical Instructor in the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School
(978) 778-3200 View (978) 778-3200
Photo of Holly Little Van Straaten, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01970, MA
Holly Little Van Straaten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salem, MA 01970
You deserve compassion and respect. As your therapist, our work together starts by forming trust and developing a relationship centered on understanding YOU and the change you hope to invite into your life. It is my belief that healing begins through honest self-reflection, more skillful communication, and learning to align our behavior with our personal values. If you are seeking support along this path, I welcome the opportunity to join you.
You deserve compassion and respect. As your therapist, our work together starts by forming trust and developing a relationship centered on understanding YOU and the change you hope to invite into your life. It is my belief that healing begins through honest self-reflection, more skillful communication, and learning to align our behavior with our personal values. If you are seeking support along this path, I welcome the opportunity to join you.
(978) 355-7487 View (978) 355-7487
Photo of Amanda Weintraub, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 01970, MA
Amanda Weintraub
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Salem, MA 01970  (Online Only)
Limited availability at this time. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has provided psychotherapy to children, adolescents, adults, and families across the life spectrum for over 10 years. I have been told my style is warm, engaging, and dynamic. I believe that overcoming anxiety, depression, PTSD, complex trauma, and other forms of chronic and acute symptoms can happen within a collaborative and attachment-based therapeutic approach. Transformative healing is possible for all of us! It is an honor to be with my clients on each of their unique journeys.
Limited availability at this time. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has provided psychotherapy to children, adolescents, adults, and families across the life spectrum for over 10 years. I have been told my style is warm, engaging, and dynamic. I believe that overcoming anxiety, depression, PTSD, complex trauma, and other forms of chronic and acute symptoms can happen within a collaborative and attachment-based therapeutic approach. Transformative healing is possible for all of us! It is an honor to be with my clients on each of their unique journeys.
(351) 205-1736 View (351) 205-1736
Photo of Andrea S Zeren, Psychologist in 01970, MA
Andrea S Zeren
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Salem, MA 01970
Waitlist for new clients
I have been a clinician and educator for over twenty-five years and blend these methods in my clinical practice. My training encompasses a number of diverse content areas, such as clinical, developmental, family and substance-related issues, all of which helps enrich my understanding of the challenges that life can present. I believe that people have greater capabilities than they are aware of. My role is to collaborate with you, not tell offer advice, tell you what to do or how to live. I treat all of my clients with dignity and respect and seek active collaboration.
I have been a clinician and educator for over twenty-five years and blend these methods in my clinical practice. My training encompasses a number of diverse content areas, such as clinical, developmental, family and substance-related issues, all of which helps enrich my understanding of the challenges that life can present. I believe that people have greater capabilities than they are aware of. My role is to collaborate with you, not tell offer advice, tell you what to do or how to live. I treat all of my clients with dignity and respect and seek active collaboration.
(978) 432-9917 View (978) 432-9917
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.