You can use the sections below to go deeper, or jump using “On this page”.
GP
A GP can assess general health, mental health and medication, help identify withdrawal risk and refer or signpost to specialist services.
Psychologist
Psychologists may assess psychological factors, formulate complex patterns and deliver evidence-based psychological interventions. In the UK, titles such as clinical psychologist and counselling psychologist are protected and regulated by the HCPC.
Psychiatrist
A psychiatrist is a medically qualified doctor specialising in mental health. Psychiatrists may be particularly important when there is diagnostic complexity, serious mental illness, medication need or significant risk.
Drug and alcohol treatment team
Community services are often multidisciplinary and can include keyworkers, nurses, doctors, pharmacists, psychologists, recovery workers and peer-support staff.
Counsellor or psychotherapist
Counsellors and psychotherapists can offer valuable psychological support, but training routes and regulation differ from protected healthcare-professional titles. Ask about accreditation, addiction-specific competence and supervision.
Recovery coach or peer worker
Lived experience can be extremely valuable for practical and motivational support. Peer roles complement rather than replace medical assessment or regulated psychological care where those are needed.
This page provides general educational information and does not replace assessment or advice from a healthcare professional. If you are worried about severe withdrawal, overdose, immediate danger or a mental health emergency, use our urgent help guidance.