Stopping smoking, vaping, or other tobacco use is one of the most important steps you can take to improve your health and overall well-being. Stopping can be challenging; most people make several attempts before quitting for good, however, the health benefits begin almost immediately and continue over time. With the right support, stopping is achievable.
Berkeley Lab Health Services offers comprehensive, evidence-based tobacco treatment services to support employees at every stage of readiness to quit.
Available Services
On-site Group Workshops
Four weekly, one-hour sessions led by a nurse practitioner, certified as a tobacco treatment specialist. Workshops are free for employees.
- Session 1: Understanding tobacco use, health effects, and benefits of quitting
- Session 2: Medications for tobacco cessation and the change process
- Session 3: Managing dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and triggers
- Session 4: Long-term benefits of quitting and relapse prevention strategies
Support Group
Weekly group support sessions providing peer connection, accountability, and practical strategies for staying tobacco-free.
Individual Counseling
Personalized clinical visits focused on behavioral counseling and medication support.
Expert Support
Rangineh Bassir, NP, is a Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist and provides both group workshops and individual counseling. She partners with participants to develop personalized tobacco treatment plans and connect them with additional wellness resources when needed.
To enroll in group sessions or schedule individual counseling, contact Berkeley Lab Health Services.
Whole-Person Approach
Tobacco use is often linked to stress, habits, and underlying challenges. A certified tobacco treatment specialist can help identify triggers, develop healthier coping strategies, and connect you with additional resources, including counseling and wellness programs, to support lasting behavior change.
Medications to Support Quitting
Tobacco cessation medications significantly improve quit success and are often covered by insurance plans. There are three main categories:
- Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)
Patch, gum, lozenge, inhaler, nasal spray - Bupropion (sustained release)
- Varenicline (Chantix)
Many people have tried medications in the past without success simply because the medication type or dose was not the right fit. Proper selection and dosing, especially with NRT, can make a significant difference. A tobacco treatment specialist can help tailor medication strategies to your needs for the best chance of success.
