Harm Reduction Therapy

Harm-Reduction used to be a term that professionals were afraid to use, particularly when it comes to treating substance use disorders. Harm reduction is more than treating individuals with behavioral disorders with dignity and respect. It is also about reducing the harm to the community. This is done by providing strategies that aims to minimize the negative health, societal, and legal consequences associated with substance use.

I have training in harm reduction that I have used both in clinical practice and community organizing.

I don't believe that all people struggling with alcohol or drug addiction have to completely abstain to make positive changes in their lives. I'm comfortable and skilled at providing techniques to reduce substance use, or abstain from certain substances while continuing to use other ones. By using tracking and goal setting techniques I support those looking to making changes to substance use.

Harm Reduction Therapy is a modality that comes from the addiction treatment universe. While I don't treat addictions specifically, I have found that harm reduction is a very helpful framework for reducing unwanted behaviors, such as self-harm, over indulgent behaviors, and other maladaptive coping strategies that we seek to change and replace.

Sometimes people are unable to stop a harmful habit or behavior (such as drug use, or spending habits) until other areas of their lives feel more manageable (like their work, or home lives). In these situations, while stopping the habit would be ideal, it may not be feasible. Instead I may work with you on reducing it's negative effects, while also treating the underlying cause.

Non-Judgmental and Compassionate Approach: Recognizing that people engage in risky behaviors for various reasons, harm reduction offers support without shaming or stigmatizing individuals. Respect for Autonomy: Individuals are encouraged to make their own informed choices, with the goal of reducing harm, even if they continue the behavior.

We have focused our careers on providing harm reduction therapy for people who want to change their relationship with substances. Our Founder and Clinical Director has written a workbook on harm reduction and regularly trains other professionals on the topic. We are passionate about working with clients from a compassionate approach to reduce the impact of shame and stigma.

I have worked with this approach within LGBTQ+ populations and with people struggling with addiction. I have also presented professionally on this topic.

Professor Bisher is an addiction specialist helping men quickly overcome compulsive sexual behavior (porn and sex addiction). He brings an empathic & empowering approach with a focus on achieving sustainable sobriety quickly.

Harm reduction begins with the basic assumption that it is possible to have healthy relationships with the behaviors and substances you choose to engage with in your life. Harm reduction does not demand abstinence, but sometimes taking a break can help you get a new perspective. If you are concerned that you have an unhealthy relationship with a substance, habit, or even a person, let's take an honest look together to find ways to reduce harm and increase your sense of satisfaction in life.

My specialization in this approach reflects my commitment to providing compassionate and effective care for individuals seeking support in managing risky behaviors. I have undergone specialized training and supervision in Harm Reduction Therapy, encompassing both theoretical foundations and practical applications.

At the core of harm reduction therapy is a respect for human rights. Working from a harm reduction approach means that I meet you where you are and on your own terms when it comes to substance use of any other behaviors deemed "harmful" by society. My question is, "what would you like your drug use or sexual behaviors to look like," and we can work from your answer to determine how you can be safe and comfortable.

Harm Reduction aims to decrease the negative consequences of a person's drug use without necessarily reducing the consumption of drugs. It honors an array of goals - not just abstinence. Although harm reduction is most commonly applied in a substance use context, it can be applied to any behavior that is concerning to you (self harm, isolation, overworking, etc). It can be helpful for reducing the downsides of that risky, exciting thing you do or that familiar coping mechanism you cherish.

I treat addictive disorders using DBT for behavioral interventions and mindfulness strategies to manage distress and emotions. I provide neurological psychoeducation and use parts work to integrate all parts of the self, fostering healing for internal wounds. With ACT, I guide clients in building acceptance of pain, and CBT to challenge faulty beliefs. Additionally, I draw on Gabor Maté's insights all aligned with a person-centered, empathic approach to support lasting change

Harm reduction can assist in helping clients who are ready to begin stages of change without completely eradicating undesired behaviors, such as self-harming, by replacing them with less harmful behaviors.

My career has been spent working towards reduced harm for all clients. That often requires out of the box and individualized thinking. Often, mental health treatment is given and it is required that a client fit into the modality to 'succeed'. Harm Reduction leads to more authentic and improved outcomes as it meets the person where they are at and builds upon small successes. It is an Empowerment-based practice utilizing one's own knowledge, skills and experience.