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    Addiction Psychiatrist in NYC

    Trusted board-certified addiction psychiatrist Zlatin Ivanov - with advanced training in Addiction Psychiatry - provides evidence-based treatments to help patients achieve lasting abstinence. He expertly uses patient-centered care, combining Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), CBT, EMDR, and digital contingency management for the most effective results. Contact Dr. Ivanov today to book an appointment.

    According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, 51.2% of people aged 12 and older have used illicit drugs at least once.

    What Is Addiction?

    Addiction means that you’re using drugs against your will, regardless of the harmful consequences. It’s a complex, chronic disease that keeps you mired in dangerous habits. Addiction puts your physical and mental health at risk.

    Over time, abused substances change your brain chemistry, altering how you think and eventually leading to destructive patterns of behavior. In addition to the compulsive activity, there are warning signs associated with various kinds of addictions.

    An addiction tends to:

    • Disrupt your life
    • Impair your work habits and other daily activities
    • Take a toll on your physical health
    • Ruin relationships
    • Disrupt your hobbies and fitness routines
    • Interfere with your financial goals

    What Types of Addictions Are There?

    Although drugs are probably the most commonly abused substance, other compulsions cause damaging psychological and physical consequences. An experienced addiction psychiatrist specializes in treatment for the various manifestations of addiction, including:

    • Alcohol addiction
    • Sex addiction
    • Food addiction
    • Opioid addiction
    • Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
    • Nicotine addiction
    Types of Addiction

    Do I Have to Check into a Clinic?

    Addiction is difficult, if not impossible, to overcome by yourself. And despite your best efforts, you run the risk of a relapse. But you don’t necessarily need to check into an overnight facility. Outpatient addiction treatment works for you, as well.

    If you’ve lost control, get help from a psychiatrist who provides effective psychotherapy for addiction, including medication to help you avoid a dreaded relapse.

    Each type of addiction therapy requires a slightly different approach, such as:

    • You may need medication management to deal with withdrawal symptoms from drugs like opioids.
    • Stand-alone psychotherapy for addiction, more commonly known as "talk therapy", may be sufficient to overcome a shopping or gambling addiction.

    If you are currently in a battle with addiction, you do not have to fight it alone. The addiction psychiatry specialists at Online Psychiatrists are expertly trained and more than capable of helping keep your addiction at bay, regardless of the type you are dealing with.

    Why Choose Dr. Zlatin Ivanov?

    Dr. Zlatin Ivanov - Experienced Addiction Psychiatrist in NYCDr. Zlatin Ivanov is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in substance use disorders, co-occurring mental health conditions, and complex addiction cases. He earned his medical degree from the Medical University “Prof. Dr. Paraskev Stoyanov” in Varna, Bulgaria, completed his psychiatry residency at North General Hospital in New York, and pursued an Addiction Psychiatry fellowship at the Mount Sinai Health System, gaining advanced expertise in treating challenging substance use cases.

    Dr. Ivanov has extensive experience in psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and comprehensive addiction care. He integrates evidence-based therapies with personalized treatment plans, addressing trauma, mood, and personality disorders that often accompany addiction. He maintains affiliations with Bellevue Hospital Center and Woodhull Medical and Mental Health Center and is an active member of the American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry.

    Recognized as a top-rated psychiatrist in New York City by platforms such as Healthgrades and Zocdoc, Dr. Ivanov combines clinical expertise, behavioral strategies, and medication management to deliver tailored care for each patient.

    Patients Talk About Their Experience

    ★★★★★

    I did a ton of research before I booked my appointment with Dr. Ivanov and everything I read and heard gave me high expectations. The Dr has far surpassed those expectations. I met with him for my second visit yesterday and my experience with him to this point has been refreshing. He is understanding, empathetic and nonjudgmental. I finally feel ok again and I have Dr. Ivanov to thank for that. I highly recommend him to anyone struggling with their mental health.

    Google Reviews
    ★★★★★

    I tried three different psychiatrists, and all they did was scribble a prescription and tell me to come back in a month. Not here. Dr. Ivanov actually asks questions, listens, and works with me instead of treating me like a number. The telepsychiatry option sealed the deal.I can do my sessions from home without rearranging my entire day. Finally, a doctor that gets it.

    Google Reviews
    ★★★★★

    I decided to try telepsychiatry after my friend’s recommendation and I didn't regret. I have seen a number of NYC psychiatrists, and only Dr. Ivanov was patient, truly listened to me and bothered about finding a right approach. I felt understood and I’m already noticing real progress. It’s been a relief!

    Google Reviews
    ★★★★★

    Breath of fresh air. I finally found the perfect specialist for me! He really cares and has been so great with giving me a treatment plan that has truly been a game changer. Im so grateful to him. Highly recommend.

    Google Reviews
    ★★★★★ 4.9/5 Average Patient Rating

    Evidence-Based Addiction Therapies & Treatments in NYC

    Effective addiction treatment relies on structured, evidence-based approaches that have been proven to reduce substance use, improve long-term recovery, and address co-occurring mental health conditions.

    According to the CDC, medication-assisted treatment combined with behavioral therapy is considered the gold standard for substance use disorders.

    Below is an overview of the evidence-based addiction therapies offered by Online Psychiatrists.

    Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

    CBT helps you identify the thoughts and patterns that fuel addictive behaviors. The goal is to replace these patterns with healthier coping strategies, reduce cravings, and prevent relapse. CBT is one of the most widely studied and effective therapies for substance use disorders.

    Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

    DBT is especially helpful for those dealing with addiction and emotional dysregulation. It focuses on mindfulness, distress tolerance, and improving relationship skills. All are essential for managing triggers and maintaining sobriety.

    Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

    For patients whose addiction is connected to trauma, EMDR can help by easing the emotional intensity of traumatic memories. Through structured eye movement sessions, patients learn to process trauma without turning to substances for relief.

    Family Treatment Approach

    Substance use affects the entire household. Family-based therapy helps rebuild communication, establish healthy boundaries, and support recovery. It can also reduce enabling behaviors and improve long-term treatment outcomes.

    Motivational Interviewing (MI)

    MI is a conversational approach designed to strengthen your internal motivation to change. For individuals who feel ambivalent about treatment, MI is often the first step toward meaningful progress.

    Psychodynamic / Supportive-Expressive Therapy

    This approach helps you uncover the emotional conflicts and past experiences that contribute to substance use. It strengthens self-awareness and teaches healthier ways to cope with stress, relationships, and negative emotions.

    Contingency Management

    Contingency Management uses positive reinforcement, such as rewards or structured incentives, to support sobriety. According to evidence-based practices, this method significantly increases treatment engagement and reduces substance use.

    Pharmacological Therapies

    Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a key part of modern addiction care. These medications help reduce cravings, prevent withdrawal, regulate various mental health issues caused by substance use, and support long-term recovery.

    Medications for Alcohol Use Disorder

    • Naltrexone – Reduces cravings and blocks the rewarding effects of alcohol.
    • Disulfiram – Causes unpleasant symptoms when alcohol is consumed, discouraging use.
    • Acamprosate – Helps stabilize brain chemistry after alcohol withdrawal and supports abstinence.

    Medications for Opioid Use Disorder

    • Methadone – A long-acting opioid agonist used to prevent withdrawal and reduce cravings.
    • Levo-alpha acetylmethadol (LAAM) – Similar to methadone with longer-lasting effects.
    • Buprenorphine – A partial opioid agonist that reduces cravings with a lower risk of misuse.
    • Naltrexone – Blocks the effects of opioids and prevents relapse.
    • Suboxone - A combination of opioid agonists, such as buprenorphine and naloxone. It’s used for reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings and improving treatment retention.

    According to the CDC, MAT greatly improves survival rates and treatment retention.

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    What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Addiction?

    You can begin the road to recovery once you’ve gone through withdrawal and detox or recognized the destructive nature of your compulsive behavior. A balanced talk therapy approach either in individual therapy or group therapy is the next step. The type of outpatient addiction treatment you need depends on your diagnosis, personal preferences and your addiction psychiatrist’s recommendations.

    One of the most effective talk therapy treatments for addictions is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Once your doctor designs a CBT treatment technique for your unique needs, you can identify those self-defeating behaviors and impulses behind your addiction. Extensive research has proven the benefits of CBT.

    As your addiction therapy progresses, you can look forward to benefits such as:

    • Re-examining the beliefs that direct your negative thinking
    • Learning new skills for coping with your compulsions
    • Developing strategies to avoid relapse
    • Working closely with your psychiatrist to unravel the aspects of your personality that led to addiction
    • Understanding any co-occurring conditions you may have
    • Finding constructive ways to deal with stress

    What’s Beyond Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?

    In addition to cognitive behavioral addiction therapy, Dr. Zlatin Ivanov offers a range of alternative outpatient addiction treatments.

    If CBT doesn’t work for you, then other options may suit you better, such as:

    • Integrative therapy, a treatment that takes for granted that you know best what you need to treat your body, mind and spirit
    • Gestalt therapy, another form of holistic therapy, but focusing on the present and your current behavior
    • Dialectic behavior therapy a technique that teaches you ways to lower stress, remain mindful of your emotions and communicate more effectively

    Because you may have created additional problems in your life due to your addiction, you may need additional talk therapy to work through those issues, such as:

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    FAQ-s

    What's the difference between inpatient and outpatient treatment?

    Inpatient and outpatient programs differ in intensity and support structure. Here’s what you need to know:

    • Inpatient programs provide 24-hour monitoring, medical detox, and structured therapy.
    • Outpatient programs include scheduled therapy sessions, group counseling, and medication management.
    • Licensed clinicians provide therapy and medication-assisted treatment in both settings.
    • Inpatient treatment is recommended for severe substance use disorders or high-risk withdrawal.

    These differences help determine which program is most appropriate for a patient.

    How long does addiction treatment typically last?

    Treatment duration depends on program type and individual needs. The main points to understand:

    • Short-term inpatient programs usually last 7–14 days.
    • Long-term inpatient programs can last 30–90 days or more.
    • Outpatient programs may run for several weeks to months with ongoing support.
    • Relapse prevention planning is integrated throughout treatment.

    Treatment plans are customized to each patient’s recovery goals.

    When is the right time to seek treatment?

    It’s important to seek help early when substance use begins affecting your health or daily life. Critical information to be aware of:

    • Early intervention can prevent escalation of substance use disorder.
    • Signs may include withdrawal symptoms, inability to cut down, or social/occupational impact.
    • Medical detox or withdrawal management may be needed immediately for safety.
    • Licensed clinicians can assess severity and recommend appropriate care.

    Prompt treatment improves the chances of long-term recovery.

    Can I keep working while in treatment?

    Some treatment programs allow patients to maintain work while receiving care. Here’s how:

    • Outpatient treatment allows you to attend sessions while living at home.
    • Inpatient programs require full-time participation, making work impossible during treatment.
    • Partial hospitalization or intensive outpatient programs offer daytime treatment with nights at home.
    • Medication-assisted treatment like Suboxone or naltrexone can often be managed alongside work.

    Treatment schedules can be adjusted to fit professional responsibilities.

    What happens if I relapse after treatment?

    Relapse may occur and returning to treatment is part of ongoing recovery. Things you should know about this include:

    • Returning to treatment after relapse is safe and recommended.
    • Clinicians reassess therapy plans and medications if needed.
    • Outpatient care and support groups help reduce the risk of future relapse.
    • Relapse is an indicator for continued support, not failure.

    Recovery is an ongoing process, and relapse does not prevent success.

    Is online addiction treatment effective?

    Virtual programs offer flexibility and access to care. Consider the following:

    • Remote psychiatric evaluation and therapy are provided by licensed clinicians.
    • Medication-assisted treatment for opioid or alcohol use disorder can be managed online.
    • Telehealth enables patients with mobility or transportation challenges to access care.
    • Online programs are best for mild to moderate substance use disorders or follow-up care.

    Remote treatment maintains clinical oversight while offering convenience.

    How much does addiction treatment cost?

    Costs vary based on program type, length, and insurance coverage. Here’s an overview:

    • Inpatient treatment is generally more expensive due to 24-hour care.
    • Outpatient treatment costs are lower but include therapy, evaluation, and medications.
    • Medication-assisted treatment may involve additional prescription costs.
    • Insurance can cover partial or full costs depending on your plan.

    Knowing costs and coverage helps you plan for care.

    Is addiction treatment confidential?

    Confidentiality is a critical part of addiction care. Critical information to be aware of:

    • Patient information is protected by HIPAA regulations.
    • Therapy sessions, medical records, and medications are kept private.
    • Disclosure requires patient consent except in emergencies.
    • Confidentiality applies to both in-person and online programs.

    Patients can be assured their privacy is maintained throughout treatment.

    Does insurance cover addiction treatment?

    Coverage depends on your insurance plan but often includes therapy and medication-assisted treatment. Here’s what you should know:

    • Many plans cover inpatient and outpatient treatment for substance use disorders.
    • Medications like Suboxone, methadone, and naltrexone may be included.
    • Preauthorization and documentation of medical necessity may be required.
    • Coverage varies by provider, policy, and individual benefits.

    Verifying your insurance ensures the services you need are covered.

    Quick Overview: Addiction Treatment
    Service Areas: Telehealth/Online treatment available in New York (NY), New Jersey (NJ), and Florida (FL).
    Primary Treatment: Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) using Suboxone (Buprenorphine) to manage withdrawal and cravings.
    Provider: Care led by Dr. Zlatin Ivanov, a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in addiction and dual-diagnosis.
    Appointment Types: 100% Virtual (Video Visits) or In-person options available. Same-day appointments often available.

    No matter what kind of addiction afflicts you, it’s time to find relief through a compassionate addiction psychiatrist. Dr. Zlatin Ivanov wants what’s best for you. He can help you get back to a life well lived. To begin your journey of recovery, contact Online Psychiatrists today. 

    Updated on Dec 11, 2025 by Dr. Zlatin Ivanov (Psychiatrist ) of Online Psychiatrists

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