Harm Reduction

Harm Reduction

Meeting people where they are—without judgment

Recovery doesn’t look the same for everyone. At FirePit Health, we understand that for some people, stopping all substance use right away may not feel safe, realistic, or possible. That’s where harm reduction comes in.

Harm reduction is about reducing the risks and consequences of substance use, even if someone isn’t ready—or doesn’t want—to stop completely. It’s a practical, compassionate approach that recognizes progress happens in steps, not all at once.

What is harm reduction?

Harm reduction is a set of strategies and principles aimed at minimizing the negative physical, emotional, and social impacts of substance use. It focuses on safety, dignity, and meeting people where they are in their journey—without pressure, judgment, or one-size-fits-all expectations.

This approach doesn’t ignore addiction. Instead, it works with people to reduce immediate risks (like overdose, infection, or unsafe behaviors) while offering support, education, and care that can lead to long-term change when they’re ready.

What harm reduction looks like in practice

Harm reduction can take many forms depending on a person’s needs, choices, and environment. At FirePit Health, we incorporate harm reduction principles into care through:

1. Nonjudgmental support

You don’t need to be sober to talk to a clinician. You’ll be met with respect, care, and curiosity about your goals—not pressure to meet someone else’s definition of progress.

2. Safer use education

When appropriate, we provide information on safer practices, overdose prevention (including how and when to use naloxone), and how to recognize when medical help is needed.

3. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

For people struggling with opioids or alcohol, MAT is often a powerful harm reduction tool. It can reduce the risk of overdose and help stabilize use, even for those not ready to fully quit.

4. Step-based planning

Some people start with small goals—like cutting back, using more safely, or avoiding high-risk situations. We help build realistic, personalized plans that support progress on your own timeline.

What to expect at FirePit Health

We don’t have a fixed script for how recovery should begin. Instead, we start with your current reality—what you're experiencing, what matters to you, and what feels possible. From there, we work with you to:

• Identify ways to reduce risk immediately
  
• Set short-term and long-term goals based on what you want
  
• Offer access to MAT, therapy, and peer support if and when you're ready
  
• Maintain open communication—because your needs may change over time

You’ll typically be matched with a licensed clinician within 24 hours of intake, giving you fast access to compassionate care—even if you’re not ready to stop using yet.

Common Questions About Harm Reduction

Is harm reduction the same as enabling?

No. Harm reduction doesn’t encourage drug use—it acknowledges it and aims to reduce the harm it can cause. Research shows that this approach can improve health outcomes and even lead more people into long-term recovery when they’re ready.

Can I still start treatment if I’m actively using?

Yes. You don’t need to be sober to begin treatment. Many people start care while still using substances. Our clinicians will help you build a plan that fits your current situation and evolves with you.

Is harm reduction effective?

Yes. Harm reduction strategies have been shown to reduce overdose deaths, transmission of disease, and other health complications—while increasing engagement in care and support.

Does FirePit Health offer harm reduction services?

We incorporate harm reduction into our virtual treatment model through MAT, therapy, education, and nonjudgmental support. While we don’t distribute physical supplies, we can connect you with additional community resources as needed.

Progress, not perfection

Recovery is not a single leap—it’s a series of steps, sometimes forward, sometimes sideways. Harm reduction honors every step toward safety, stability, and healing, no matter how small. At FirePit Health, we walk with you through each of those steps—without judgment, without pressure, and always with respect.