Photo of Leesha Monson, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Leesha Monson
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Alfred Cove, WA 6154
Leesha is a registered Psychotherapist specialising in work with young people, women and couples. Leesha has extensive experience in the field of sexuality, addiction and disability. She is an empathetic counsellor who believes that connection and authenticity are essential elements in therapy. Leesha works in an integrative and holistic way to create a comfortable and safe environment where individuals and couples can explore effective ways to move through difficult times and challenges. Leesha provides opportunities for deep exploration of the root of old ideas which keep us stuck in patterns that no longer serve us.
Leesha is a registered Psychotherapist specialising in work with young people, women and couples. Leesha has extensive experience in the field of sexuality, addiction and disability. She is an empathetic counsellor who believes that connection and authenticity are essential elements in therapy. Leesha works in an integrative and holistic way to create a comfortable and safe environment where individuals and couples can explore effective ways to move through difficult times and challenges. Leesha provides opportunities for deep exploration of the root of old ideas which keep us stuck in patterns that no longer serve us.
(08) 6206 8047 View (08) 6206 8047
Photo of Paris Matthews, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Paris Matthews
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Winthrop, WA 6150
As a Psychologist, I passionately believe that we as humans already hold the potential and resilience to be able to heal ourselves. I will work with you in a holistic and judgement-free way for you to be able to build upon your skills to be able to cope with the challenges that life presents to us. This is your journey, and I will be your guide. I have experience working with vulnerable populations within Government sectors of Disability Royal Commission, Child Protective Services and also Corrective Services, where I supported individuals with neurodiversity, couples and families, in addition to people experiencing addiction.
As a Psychologist, I passionately believe that we as humans already hold the potential and resilience to be able to heal ourselves. I will work with you in a holistic and judgement-free way for you to be able to build upon your skills to be able to cope with the challenges that life presents to us. This is your journey, and I will be your guide. I have experience working with vulnerable populations within Government sectors of Disability Royal Commission, Child Protective Services and also Corrective Services, where I supported individuals with neurodiversity, couples and families, in addition to people experiencing addiction.
(08) 6171 2171 View (08) 6171 2171
Photo of Skye Frizza, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Skye Frizza
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Mount Lawley, WA 6050
I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples and families overcome communication breakdowns, navigate addiction issues, changes in relationships caused by everchanging life and the changes that accompany the antenatal and postnatal journey. My approach is rooted in collaboration and evidence based practice with an emphasis on creating a non-judgmental and compassionate environment. I understand relationships play a significant role in your overall well-being, and I am committed to helping people strengthen and improve these connections.
I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples and families overcome communication breakdowns, navigate addiction issues, changes in relationships caused by everchanging life and the changes that accompany the antenatal and postnatal journey. My approach is rooted in collaboration and evidence based practice with an emphasis on creating a non-judgmental and compassionate environment. I understand relationships play a significant role in your overall well-being, and I am committed to helping people strengthen and improve these connections.
(08) 6493 7338 View (08) 6493 7338
Photo of Bronte Galek - Anahata counselling, MC, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Anahata counselling
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000  (Online Only)
I can support you with a range of issues such as Addiction/ substance dependence of yourself or loved one, Anger, Anxiety, Cultural issues, Depression, Expat related concerns, Family/parenting, Grief and loss, Life transitions, Low self-esteem, Mental health concerns, Relational stressors, Stress and Trauma.
I am an experienced psychotherapist and counsellor specialising in addiction and trauma. With a strong person-centered and holistic approach, I combine various therapeutic techniques to encourage one’s healing and understanding of self. I aim to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore all facets of themselves, supporting them to find peace and stability amidst life’s challenges. I can work with you on a range of life's issues and I am deeply committed to creating safety and care within the therapeutic relationship. There is no need to struggle alone.
I can support you with a range of issues such as Addiction/ substance dependence of yourself or loved one, Anger, Anxiety, Cultural issues, Depression, Expat related concerns, Family/parenting, Grief and loss, Life transitions, Low self-esteem, Mental health concerns, Relational stressors, Stress and Trauma.
I am an experienced psychotherapist and counsellor specialising in addiction and trauma. With a strong person-centered and holistic approach, I combine various therapeutic techniques to encourage one’s healing and understanding of self. I aim to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore all facets of themselves, supporting them to find peace and stability amidst life’s challenges. I can work with you on a range of life's issues and I am deeply committed to creating safety and care within the therapeutic relationship. There is no need to struggle alone.
(08) 7078 8233 View (08) 7078 8233
Photo of Francesca Palazzolo, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Francesca Palazzolo
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with any addictive behaviours, including a porn or sex addiction, (or have concerns about a partner/family member) please reach out for non-judgemental support.
I am a counsellor & psychotherapist working in the existential humanist tradition. I work with all sorts of issues including mental health, addictive behaviours and relationship issues to name a few. I am registered with PACFA (Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation Australia) which is the national peak body for counsellors and psychotherapists in Australia and have worked in youth mental health, alcohol and other drugs counselling and trauma informed counselling. If you are experiencing issues with any emotional concerns, anxiety, substance use, addiction, including behavioural addictions, please do not hesitate to reach out.
If you are struggling with any addictive behaviours, including a porn or sex addiction, (or have concerns about a partner/family member) please reach out for non-judgemental support.
I am a counsellor & psychotherapist working in the existential humanist tradition. I work with all sorts of issues including mental health, addictive behaviours and relationship issues to name a few. I am registered with PACFA (Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation Australia) which is the national peak body for counsellors and psychotherapists in Australia and have worked in youth mental health, alcohol and other drugs counselling and trauma informed counselling. If you are experiencing issues with any emotional concerns, anxiety, substance use, addiction, including behavioural addictions, please do not hesitate to reach out.
(03) 6411 0202 View (03) 6411 0202
Photo of Jana Maddock - Jana Maddock Counselling, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Jana Maddock Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000  (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Jana, a registered Psychotherapist/Counsellor with a B.Couns. and M.A.C.A. level 4 certification. My practice focuses on supporting young adults, adults, and couples, offering support for various issues including Trauma Counselling, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Abuse, Self Harm and Relationship issues.
Hi there, I'm Jana, a registered Psychotherapist/Counsellor with a B.Couns. and M.A.C.A. level 4 certification. My practice focuses on supporting young adults, adults, and couples, offering support for various issues including Trauma Counselling, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Abuse, Self Harm and Relationship issues.
(07) 5241 1842 View (07) 5241 1842
Photo of Melissa Burns, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Melissa Burns
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
West Perth, WA 6005
I am also a facilitator in the Matrix Program, an intensive non-residential treatment for addiction.
I have immediate availability I am an experienced psychologist based in West Perth, dedicated to providing professional and compassionate care to my clients. I provide a warm and empathetic approach in sessions, to establish a safe and non-judgmental environment to help foster a therapeutic alliance, facilitating the process of healing and growth. My goal is to empower my clients to overcome their challenges and achieve their personal goals. I specialise in a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety disorders, depression, parenting concerns, stress management, and relationship concerns.
I am also a facilitator in the Matrix Program, an intensive non-residential treatment for addiction.
I have immediate availability I am an experienced psychologist based in West Perth, dedicated to providing professional and compassionate care to my clients. I provide a warm and empathetic approach in sessions, to establish a safe and non-judgmental environment to help foster a therapeutic alliance, facilitating the process of healing and growth. My goal is to empower my clients to overcome their challenges and achieve their personal goals. I specialise in a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety disorders, depression, parenting concerns, stress management, and relationship concerns.
(08) 6490 9084 View (08) 6490 9084
Photo of Shagoon Maurya, MA, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Shagoon Maurya
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
I support individuals who are struggling with a range of life challenges. This may be a situational issue or more ongoing challenges in life where you have notice repeated patterns. This could be things like struggling with mental health, emotional overwhelm, stress, relational issues or breakdown, life transition, work or study pressure, substance misuse, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues and childhood trauma. I also support adults experiencing relationship/marriage and family problems. It is not uncommon to feel apprehensive about engaging in therapy even though it can be very beneficial in many ways.
I support individuals who are struggling with a range of life challenges. This may be a situational issue or more ongoing challenges in life where you have notice repeated patterns. This could be things like struggling with mental health, emotional overwhelm, stress, relational issues or breakdown, life transition, work or study pressure, substance misuse, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues and childhood trauma. I also support adults experiencing relationship/marriage and family problems. It is not uncommon to feel apprehensive about engaging in therapy even though it can be very beneficial in many ways.
(08) 7079 4465 View (08) 7079 4465
Photo of Katie Woodley-Smith, MA, PACFA, Counsellor
Katie Woodley-Smith
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
Counselling can help you address depression, anxiety, grief, workplace dynamics and substance abuse.
I am a practiced counsellor, with a specialised interest in attachment trauma. The way our early life experiences create a blueprint for our relationships that may no longer be serving us in our adult circumstance. Unresolved attachment trauma can cause us to repeat the same painful relationship patterns until we go back to the source and heal the original wounding. My job is to build a comfortable and safe space for you to explore any issues that may be holding you back from creating the life and connections you long for in all your relationships, especially the one with yourself.
Counselling can help you address depression, anxiety, grief, workplace dynamics and substance abuse.
I am a practiced counsellor, with a specialised interest in attachment trauma. The way our early life experiences create a blueprint for our relationships that may no longer be serving us in our adult circumstance. Unresolved attachment trauma can cause us to repeat the same painful relationship patterns until we go back to the source and heal the original wounding. My job is to build a comfortable and safe space for you to explore any issues that may be holding you back from creating the life and connections you long for in all your relationships, especially the one with yourself.
(08) 6333 0717 View (08) 6333 0717
Photo of Jo Berryman - Jo Berryman Beam Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Jo Berryman Beam Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Jo is a registered psychologist with a Masters of Psychology degree in Counselling Psychology. She has a background and a passion with working with adolescents as well as experience with adults, couples and families across the lifespan. Jo is experienced in assessment and treatment of a range of psychological issues including depression, anxiety, personality disorders, self-injury and addiction with particular experience and research interests in 'at risk' behaviour, psychological trauma, abuse, panic disorder and perfectionism.
Jo is a registered psychologist with a Masters of Psychology degree in Counselling Psychology. She has a background and a passion with working with adolescents as well as experience with adults, couples and families across the lifespan. Jo is experienced in assessment and treatment of a range of psychological issues including depression, anxiety, personality disorders, self-injury and addiction with particular experience and research interests in 'at risk' behaviour, psychological trauma, abuse, panic disorder and perfectionism.
(08) 6206 8788 View (08) 6206 8788
Photo of Cheralee King, PACFA, Counsellor
Cheralee King
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melville, WA 6156
For 6 years I worked in the area of Drug and alcohol support, counselling clients struggling with substance use and those impacted by another’s substance use issues.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Family Therapist with a passion for supporting clients to develop self-awareness and address issues that can cause imbalance in every day life. Using an integrated person-centered approach, I work with clients to set achievable goals working towards improving their quality of life. I feel strongly about working alongside clients to support their journey in a way that works best for them, while challenging them to seek new and more effective ways to view their world.
For 6 years I worked in the area of Drug and alcohol support, counselling clients struggling with substance use and those impacted by another’s substance use issues.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Family Therapist with a passion for supporting clients to develop self-awareness and address issues that can cause imbalance in every day life. Using an integrated person-centered approach, I work with clients to set achievable goals working towards improving their quality of life. I feel strongly about working alongside clients to support their journey in a way that works best for them, while challenging them to seek new and more effective ways to view their world.
(08) 6219 3902 View (08) 6219 3902
Photo of Laura Verena Barnes - Mind Centered Counselling Services, MA, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Mind Centered Counselling Services
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Mindarie, WA 6030
Hello, I'm Laura, and I specialise in helping couples who feel stuck in a cycle of conflict and doubt rediscover the love and connection they once had. I also help individuals who feel like they have lost themselves in an unhealthy relationship. My approach is informed by my own journey offering a unique and empathetic perspective to my counselling practice. Growing up in South Africa, I faced significant emotional challenges early on, witnessing my mother’s struggle with depression and my father’s battle with alcohol addiction. These experiences ignited my passion for supporting others in their mental health journeys.
Hello, I'm Laura, and I specialise in helping couples who feel stuck in a cycle of conflict and doubt rediscover the love and connection they once had. I also help individuals who feel like they have lost themselves in an unhealthy relationship. My approach is informed by my own journey offering a unique and empathetic perspective to my counselling practice. Growing up in South Africa, I faced significant emotional challenges early on, witnessing my mother’s struggle with depression and my father’s battle with alcohol addiction. These experiences ignited my passion for supporting others in their mental health journeys.
(08) 6206 8583 View (08) 6206 8583
Photo of Victoria Kerr, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Victoria Kerr
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Attadale, WA 6156
I am a warm and respectful Counsellor and Psychotherapist who has been in private practice since 1999. I enjoy working with a wide range of clients and issues including anxiety, depression, stress and anger issues however I have spent a large part of my career working with sexual health and relationship issues including; infidelity, sex drive differences, vaginismus, sexual identity, pornography and sex addiction, cross dressing and transitioning relationships into parenthood and other big life changes. I work with Individuals, couples and families via face to face appointments in beautiful rooms and also vis Skype and phone.
I am a warm and respectful Counsellor and Psychotherapist who has been in private practice since 1999. I enjoy working with a wide range of clients and issues including anxiety, depression, stress and anger issues however I have spent a large part of my career working with sexual health and relationship issues including; infidelity, sex drive differences, vaginismus, sexual identity, pornography and sex addiction, cross dressing and transitioning relationships into parenthood and other big life changes. I work with Individuals, couples and families via face to face appointments in beautiful rooms and also vis Skype and phone.
(08) 7079 5671 View (08) 7079 5671
Photo of Chelsea Bramich, MPsych, Psychologist
Chelsea Bramich
Psychologist, MPsych
Verified Verified
Shenton Park, WA 6008
Hi, I'm a clinical psychologist and I offer support to individuals and couples across the lifespan, and I welcome clients with a wide range of life experiences. I am particularly passionate about working with women and children. I have over 14 years’ experience that relates to mental health, youth, homelessness, substance use, LGBTIQ+ and research. I have experience working with presenting factors such as depression, anxiety, trauma, peri/post-natal/infant mental health, and interpersonal issues. I am trained in Interpersonal Therapy, CBT, ACT, EMDR, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), and Mentalisation Based Therapy.
Hi, I'm a clinical psychologist and I offer support to individuals and couples across the lifespan, and I welcome clients with a wide range of life experiences. I am particularly passionate about working with women and children. I have over 14 years’ experience that relates to mental health, youth, homelessness, substance use, LGBTIQ+ and research. I have experience working with presenting factors such as depression, anxiety, trauma, peri/post-natal/infant mental health, and interpersonal issues. I am trained in Interpersonal Therapy, CBT, ACT, EMDR, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), and Mentalisation Based Therapy.
(08) 6490 9745 View (08) 6490 9745
Gold Star Counselling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Midland, WA 6056
Welcome! I’m Chris, and I’m dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey toward mental well-being and personal growth. My approach to counselling is rooted in compassion, empathy, and a deep respect for each person’s unique experience. I understand that reaching out for help can be a significant step, and I’m here to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings openly. With years of experience working with clients facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, substance use, and anger management, I’ve seen firsthand the resilience and strength that individuals possess. In our sessions
Welcome! I’m Chris, and I’m dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey toward mental well-being and personal growth. My approach to counselling is rooted in compassion, empathy, and a deep respect for each person’s unique experience. I understand that reaching out for help can be a significant step, and I’m here to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings openly. With years of experience working with clients facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, substance use, and anger management, I’ve seen firsthand the resilience and strength that individuals possess. In our sessions
(08) 6109 9165 View (08) 6109 9165
Photo of Gizella Dudas, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Gizella Dudas
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
South Lake, WA 6164
I’m a passionate Systemic Family Therapist, working with individuals, couples and families. The integrative, person centred & strength-based approach I use in therapy will ensure the best outcome in managing difficult relationships, separation or divorce, self harm and/or school avoidance in adolescence, prescription medication or illicit substance misuse, alcohol abuse, grief and loss of a loved one, and many other life developmental stage complexities. My trauma-informed approach provides safety, emotional growth, and strength building for all clients in need of support. I'm available for face to face and online or phone sessions
I’m a passionate Systemic Family Therapist, working with individuals, couples and families. The integrative, person centred & strength-based approach I use in therapy will ensure the best outcome in managing difficult relationships, separation or divorce, self harm and/or school avoidance in adolescence, prescription medication or illicit substance misuse, alcohol abuse, grief and loss of a loved one, and many other life developmental stage complexities. My trauma-informed approach provides safety, emotional growth, and strength building for all clients in need of support. I'm available for face to face and online or phone sessions
(08) 9473 6348 View (08) 9473 6348
Photo of Emily Hirshman-Smith - Emily Hirshman-Smith Counselling & Psychotherapy, MA, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Emily Hirshman-Smith Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Cottesloe, WA 6011
My areas of speciality include Relationship / Marriage Counselling; Addiction (pornography, sex, drug and alcohol); Anxiety and Depression; Grief Counselling; Sexual Health.
Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationship(s)? Are you feeling confused and wanting some clarity? Are you wanting to change some behaviours, but don’t know how or where to begin? Are you feeling angry, sad, lonely or overwhelmed, finding it difficult to get through the day? Perhaps you’ve answered yes to one or some of these questions. If so, it might be time to talk to a professional Counsellor in a safe and comfortable environment where you can fully explore what’s going on for you, and begin to facilitate change, at a pace that feels right for you. I offer short and long term Counselling to Couples and Individuals.
My areas of speciality include Relationship / Marriage Counselling; Addiction (pornography, sex, drug and alcohol); Anxiety and Depression; Grief Counselling; Sexual Health.
Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationship(s)? Are you feeling confused and wanting some clarity? Are you wanting to change some behaviours, but don’t know how or where to begin? Are you feeling angry, sad, lonely or overwhelmed, finding it difficult to get through the day? Perhaps you’ve answered yes to one or some of these questions. If so, it might be time to talk to a professional Counsellor in a safe and comfortable environment where you can fully explore what’s going on for you, and begin to facilitate change, at a pace that feels right for you. I offer short and long term Counselling to Couples and Individuals.
(08) 7078 8383 View (08) 7078 8383
Photo of Margot Trinder, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist
Margot Trinder
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000  (Online Only)
The Issues I can assist you with include: anxiety, depression and stress, trauma, grief and loss, lifestage transitions, parenting, substance addictions, neurodiversity, family and relationship difficulties .
I am a warm and experienced psychologist working with adults across the lifespan to address a broad range of issues. I bring deep respect and awareness to how each person's story, needs and circumstances are different. I draw from my decades of experience and professional training across a wide range of therapeutic modalities. My work is guided by a strong systemic approach: seeing all parts of a person, as well as the layers of relationships, family, work, culture and society that have and continue to influence and shape us. My approach ensures that each person I work with receives support tailored specifically for them.
The Issues I can assist you with include: anxiety, depression and stress, trauma, grief and loss, lifestage transitions, parenting, substance addictions, neurodiversity, family and relationship difficulties .
I am a warm and experienced psychologist working with adults across the lifespan to address a broad range of issues. I bring deep respect and awareness to how each person's story, needs and circumstances are different. I draw from my decades of experience and professional training across a wide range of therapeutic modalities. My work is guided by a strong systemic approach: seeing all parts of a person, as well as the layers of relationships, family, work, culture and society that have and continue to influence and shape us. My approach ensures that each person I work with receives support tailored specifically for them.
(07) 5240 9828 View (07) 5240 9828
Photo of Sasha Gobbart Mason, PACFA, Counsellor
Sasha Gobbart Mason
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000  (Online Only)
I hold a Bachelor's degree in Counselling and have done further training in substance use and Somatic Experiencing.
I work primarily with females experiencing mental health issues, burnout and stress. I see people through a holistic lens and aim to support you to find integration between mind, body and emotions. With lived experience, I understand how trauma disconnects us from our bodies and how difficult it is to sit with our emotions.
I hold a Bachelor's degree in Counselling and have done further training in substance use and Somatic Experiencing.
I work primarily with females experiencing mental health issues, burnout and stress. I see people through a holistic lens and aim to support you to find integration between mind, body and emotions. With lived experience, I understand how trauma disconnects us from our bodies and how difficult it is to sit with our emotions.
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Photo of Tegan Campbell - Tegan Campbell Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Tegan Campbell Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000  (Online Only)
As a neuroaffirming clinician I take a client centred and strengths approach, respecting your unique neurotype and what works best for you! What might we talk about in therapy? Almost anything! Perhaps it's stress, anxiety or depression. Or exploring your neurodivergent identity (ADHD/Autism), the assessment process (I conduct ADHD/Autism assessments also), the executive functions of the brain or substance use difficulties. Or maybe its parent support (raising neurodivergent kids and/or being ND yourself), strategies for time management, procrastination, emotion regulation strategies or values...the list goes on!
As a neuroaffirming clinician I take a client centred and strengths approach, respecting your unique neurotype and what works best for you! What might we talk about in therapy? Almost anything! Perhaps it's stress, anxiety or depression. Or exploring your neurodivergent identity (ADHD/Autism), the assessment process (I conduct ADHD/Autism assessments also), the executive functions of the brain or substance use difficulties. Or maybe its parent support (raising neurodivergent kids and/or being ND yourself), strategies for time management, procrastination, emotion regulation strategies or values...the list goes on!
(07) 4515 2398 View (07) 4515 2398

See more therapy options for Perth

Addiction Counsellors

What is the best therapy for addiction?

Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.

How long does therapy for addiction take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.

How effective is drug addiction treatment?

Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?

The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.