Addiction Psychologists and Therapists in Bankstown, NSW

Photo of Layla Oueidat - Layla at Time and Space Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L3
Layla at Time and Space Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Online Only
People come to counselling for so many reasons; maybe they're navigating traumatic memories/experiences, difficult feelings, the complexities of belonging & identity, or their relationship with drugs &/or alcohol.
In our sessions, I offer a culturally-responsive space, walking alongside you using antioppressive, intersectional, trauma- & addiction-informed lenses grounded in evidence-based therapies. Here, you can bring your identity, body & stories into a space that invites connection, choice & the unfolding of what has been held, unspoken, or ready to heal.
People come to counselling for so many reasons; maybe they're navigating traumatic memories/experiences, difficult feelings, the complexities of belonging & identity, or their relationship with drugs &/or alcohol.
In our sessions, I offer a culturally-responsive space, walking alongside you using antioppressive, intersectional, trauma- & addiction-informed lenses grounded in evidence-based therapies. Here, you can bring your identity, body & stories into a space that invites connection, choice & the unfolding of what has been held, unspoken, or ready to heal.
(03) 8771 4367 View (03) 8771 4367
Photo of Youssy Mikhaeil - Dynamic Healing Counselling Service, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Dynamic Healing Counselling Service
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
I’ve spent over a decade working in trauma- addiction across public and private settings.
If you've been struggling to manage and still feeling stuck, I work with people who need more than surface-level strategies. My focus is complex trauma, PTSD, long-term recovery, and the impact of systems, relationships, and life events that leave lasting consequences. My approach is practical, grounded, and centred on restoring stability, safety, and agency. I’m SIRA registered and support NDIS (self-managed or plan-managed) participants. I work independently of Medicare so clients can access therapy without formal diagnoses, session limits, or GP involvement. Some private health rebates may apply depending on your provider.
I’ve spent over a decade working in trauma- addiction across public and private settings.
If you've been struggling to manage and still feeling stuck, I work with people who need more than surface-level strategies. My focus is complex trauma, PTSD, long-term recovery, and the impact of systems, relationships, and life events that leave lasting consequences. My approach is practical, grounded, and centred on restoring stability, safety, and agency. I’m SIRA registered and support NDIS (self-managed or plan-managed) participants. I work independently of Medicare so clients can access therapy without formal diagnoses, session limits, or GP involvement. Some private health rebates may apply depending on your provider.
(02) 4210 5062 View (02) 4210 5062
Photo of Danielle Waters, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Danielle Waters
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I am a Clinical Psychologist who can help you to develop personal insight and to address symptoms of range of anxiety disorders; mood related issues; trauma; addiction; distress and overwhelming emotions; life stress; personality challenges and related unhelpful coping; interpersonal and relationship issues; communication skills; neurodivergent affirming.
My approach is warm, compassionate and genuine. I have experience in a range of therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy. I understand everyone is unique and I tailor treatment to your needs.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who can help you to develop personal insight and to address symptoms of range of anxiety disorders; mood related issues; trauma; addiction; distress and overwhelming emotions; life stress; personality challenges and related unhelpful coping; interpersonal and relationship issues; communication skills; neurodivergent affirming.
My approach is warm, compassionate and genuine. I have experience in a range of therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy. I understand everyone is unique and I tailor treatment to your needs.
(02) 8776 3282 View (02) 8776 3282
Photo of Will Bonney, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Will Bonney
Psychotherapist, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with people who feel stuck - whether depressed; anxious; as a result of trauma; caught in a cycle of repetitive destructive behaviours like alcohol and drug use, gambling or sex addiction; dysfunctional relationships; or lacking direction, meaning and purpose.
I draw on a range of evidence-based therapies as appropriate for each client. These methods are accompanied by empathy for the human condition and are informed by insights gained as a partner, father, son, sibling, friend, colleague and community member. I bring my authentic self into the therapeutic relationship to walk beside those who come to see me.
I work with people who feel stuck - whether depressed; anxious; as a result of trauma; caught in a cycle of repetitive destructive behaviours like alcohol and drug use, gambling or sex addiction; dysfunctional relationships; or lacking direction, meaning and purpose.
I draw on a range of evidence-based therapies as appropriate for each client. These methods are accompanied by empathy for the human condition and are informed by insights gained as a partner, father, son, sibling, friend, colleague and community member. I bring my authentic self into the therapeutic relationship to walk beside those who come to see me.
(02) 8073 8335 View (02) 8073 8335
Photo of El-Afraa Chouchane, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
El-Afraa Chouchane
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Online Only
From anxiety and depression to relationship difficulties, self esteem, grief and loss, addictions and beyond, she has helped numerous clients navigate through these challenging experiences.
El-afraa is a registered Counsellor and Psychotherapist with postgraduate training. Drawing from a wealth of experience and expertise, El-afraa offers an integrative therapeutic approach tailored specifically to your unique needs and circumstances. She combines cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Interpersonal therapy (PIT), Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) as well as mindfulness and attachment theory.
From anxiety and depression to relationship difficulties, self esteem, grief and loss, addictions and beyond, she has helped numerous clients navigate through these challenging experiences.
El-afraa is a registered Counsellor and Psychotherapist with postgraduate training. Drawing from a wealth of experience and expertise, El-afraa offers an integrative therapeutic approach tailored specifically to your unique needs and circumstances. She combines cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Interpersonal therapy (PIT), Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) as well as mindfulness and attachment theory.
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Photo of Anthony Dagher, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Anthony Dagher
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Bankstown, NSW 2200
I am a psychologist currently working at Better U Health Services, a private clinic catering to individuals that present with a wide variety of challenges. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults who experience a range of concerns, including but not limited to: Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Developmental/Learning Disability, Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety and/or Depression, Stress Management, Relationship Difficulties and Life Adjustments. By utilising evidence-based treatment options, I help cultivate insight and in-depth exploration to bring about meaningful and lasting personal development.
I am a psychologist currently working at Better U Health Services, a private clinic catering to individuals that present with a wide variety of challenges. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults who experience a range of concerns, including but not limited to: Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Developmental/Learning Disability, Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety and/or Depression, Stress Management, Relationship Difficulties and Life Adjustments. By utilising evidence-based treatment options, I help cultivate insight and in-depth exploration to bring about meaningful and lasting personal development.
(02) 8105 5883 View (02) 8105 5883
Photo of Phuong Phan, Counsellor, ACA-L3
Phuong Phan
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Bankstown, NSW 2200
I am flexible in helping people empowering them recover from gambling addiction, problemetic & emotional issues through their lived experiences, capacity strengths and values that they did not know before.
Quý khách đang trong tình trạng Đau Khổ, Âu Lo, Bất An, Mất Ngũ hay Trầm Cảm vì những vấn đề nan giãi trong gia đình, cuộc sống, đôi lúc bế tắc tuyệt vọng? Hãy 1 lần gặp gỡ Counsellor Phương Phan, quý vị sẽ tìm được hướng giải quyết thích hợp qua Counselling & Life Coaching, giúp Tâm Lành, Thân Khỏe và Trí Sáng. Everyone is different, so individual depression, anxiety and problems are various in nature. My therapeutic & psychological Counselling program will be tailored flexibly & appropriately to meet your needs in problem solving and emotional recovery. Just try for your self-recovery. PP
I am flexible in helping people empowering them recover from gambling addiction, problemetic & emotional issues through their lived experiences, capacity strengths and values that they did not know before.
Quý khách đang trong tình trạng Đau Khổ, Âu Lo, Bất An, Mất Ngũ hay Trầm Cảm vì những vấn đề nan giãi trong gia đình, cuộc sống, đôi lúc bế tắc tuyệt vọng? Hãy 1 lần gặp gỡ Counsellor Phương Phan, quý vị sẽ tìm được hướng giải quyết thích hợp qua Counselling & Life Coaching, giúp Tâm Lành, Thân Khỏe và Trí Sáng. Everyone is different, so individual depression, anxiety and problems are various in nature. My therapeutic & psychological Counselling program will be tailored flexibly & appropriately to meet your needs in problem solving and emotional recovery. Just try for your self-recovery. PP
(02) 9053 4305 View (02) 9053 4305
Photo of Ji Fang Zhou, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Ji Fang Zhou
Psychologist, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Bankstown, NSW 2200
I love using my psychological skills and training to help people improve mental health, heal from trauma, overcome addictions, connect with their purpose in life, work towards their goals and build better relationships.
I enjoy working with people on a wide range of issues, including trauma, anxiety, stress, attention-deficit, depression, anger, relationships and finding purpose. I use several psychological therapies, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT).
I love using my psychological skills and training to help people improve mental health, heal from trauma, overcome addictions, connect with their purpose in life, work towards their goals and build better relationships.
I enjoy working with people on a wide range of issues, including trauma, anxiety, stress, attention-deficit, depression, anger, relationships and finding purpose. I use several psychological therapies, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT).
(02) 8105 5074 View (02) 8105 5074
Sarah Mohamadin
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
I provide Telehealth (video/phone) only sessions. I am a Registered Psychologist with 14 years of clinical experience providing psychological treatment and intervention. I provide my services to adult clients only. I do not see clients who require any court reports or are going through family/criminal court matters. Bulk Billing is offered to pensioners and adults struggling financial difficultes. I am also partnered with One Door Mental Health with You in Mind (YIM) and Clinical Suicide Prevention Service (CSPS) programs and Victims Services NSW. I am a Work Development Order WDO Approved Sponsor in NSW.
I provide Telehealth (video/phone) only sessions. I am a Registered Psychologist with 14 years of clinical experience providing psychological treatment and intervention. I provide my services to adult clients only. I do not see clients who require any court reports or are going through family/criminal court matters. Bulk Billing is offered to pensioners and adults struggling financial difficultes. I am also partnered with One Door Mental Health with You in Mind (YIM) and Clinical Suicide Prevention Service (CSPS) programs and Victims Services NSW. I am a Work Development Order WDO Approved Sponsor in NSW.
(02) 4210 5075 View (02) 4210 5075
Michelle Pal
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA Endorsed
Online Only
In therapy I can help with mental health and relationship issues such as: confidence and assertiveness; reducing worry and negative thinking; having better relationships; managing low moods or mood swings; overcome imposter syndrome; or decrease sexual dysunction. I treat clinical issues such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar. I also work with adults on relationship issues and with couples using the Gottman Model of Couples Therapy. I am also passionate about social justice & regularly provide assessments & reports for immigration & criminal court proceedings (including bail application, S14 applications, and sentencing reports).
In therapy I can help with mental health and relationship issues such as: confidence and assertiveness; reducing worry and negative thinking; having better relationships; managing low moods or mood swings; overcome imposter syndrome; or decrease sexual dysunction. I treat clinical issues such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar. I also work with adults on relationship issues and with couples using the Gottman Model of Couples Therapy. I am also passionate about social justice & regularly provide assessments & reports for immigration & criminal court proceedings (including bail application, S14 applications, and sentencing reports).
(02) 8294 8062 View (02) 8294 8062
Photo of Mona Mattar - Lighthouse Therapeutic, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Lighthouse Therapeutic
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Perhaps your use of drugs or alcohol has increased or feels out of control, or your anxiety is holding you back.
I am an experienced clinical counsellor and psychotherapist working in private hospital settings and private practice with a special interest in eating disorders, addictions, OCD and couples counselling with a focus on distress tolerance, emotion regulation, mindfulness and assertive communication as well body positivity, self compassion and acceptance.
Perhaps your use of drugs or alcohol has increased or feels out of control, or your anxiety is holding you back.
I am an experienced clinical counsellor and psychotherapist working in private hospital settings and private practice with a special interest in eating disorders, addictions, OCD and couples counselling with a focus on distress tolerance, emotion regulation, mindfulness and assertive communication as well body positivity, self compassion and acceptance.
0460 832 082 View 0460 832 082
Photo of Ruben Hadges, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Ruben Hadges
Counsellor, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialise in the treatment of addictions, anxiety and depression, and PTSD.
I specialise in treating addictions, anxiety and depression disorders, PTSD and family and couples issues. These areas can feel overwhelming and isolating, often impacting many areas of life. I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where we can work together to better understand your experiences and patterns. I use contemporary and traditional, evidence-based techniques tailored to your needs. This focuses on creating sustainable change in your mental health and relationships.
I specialise in the treatment of addictions, anxiety and depression, and PTSD.
I specialise in treating addictions, anxiety and depression disorders, PTSD and family and couples issues. These areas can feel overwhelming and isolating, often impacting many areas of life. I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where we can work together to better understand your experiences and patterns. I use contemporary and traditional, evidence-based techniques tailored to your needs. This focuses on creating sustainable change in your mental health and relationships.
0493 207 380 View 0493 207 380
Photo of Dr Carollyne Youssef, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Carollyne Youssef
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I strive to ensure my clients feel heard, understood and respected, regardless of their situation, past or concern. Taking a positive psychology and humanistic approach, I fundamentally believe that every person has a unique strength and I strive to maximise and build upon that strength. I focus on the person as a whole and want to help people be the best version of themselves. Moving away from a deficit focus, I use strengths-based approaches with my clients. I aim to continuously provide clients with respect, a collaborative approach to working on goals, with compassion and authenticity.
I strive to ensure my clients feel heard, understood and respected, regardless of their situation, past or concern. Taking a positive psychology and humanistic approach, I fundamentally believe that every person has a unique strength and I strive to maximise and build upon that strength. I focus on the person as a whole and want to help people be the best version of themselves. Moving away from a deficit focus, I use strengths-based approaches with my clients. I aim to continuously provide clients with respect, a collaborative approach to working on goals, with compassion and authenticity.
(02) 8074 5475 View (02) 8074 5475
Photo of Huda Jineyat - HJ Counselling and Therapy , Counsellor, MC, ACA-L3
HJ Counselling and Therapy
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L3
Online Only
Helping people improve their lives is at the heart of my practice. My greatest reward is seeing clients achieve meaningful and lasting change through counselling. My counselling services include support for WorkCover and CTP clients, family issues, relationship and couples counselling, as well as a wide range of emotional and psychological concerns. Every person deserves the opportunity to live a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life. With the right therapeutic support, positive change is possible—because better therapy leads to a better life.
Helping people improve their lives is at the heart of my practice. My greatest reward is seeing clients achieve meaningful and lasting change through counselling. My counselling services include support for WorkCover and CTP clients, family issues, relationship and couples counselling, as well as a wide range of emotional and psychological concerns. Every person deserves the opportunity to live a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life. With the right therapeutic support, positive change is possible—because better therapy leads to a better life.
(02) 7804 4464 View (02) 7804 4464
Photo of Cheryn Abouesh - PsychBlossom, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
PsychBlossom
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Cheryn is a Clinical Psychologist. Cheryn’s qualifications are a Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) and a Master of Clinical Psychology. Cheryn loves her work and is a very dedicated, warm and engaging therapist, with a keen sense of the privilege and responsibility that her role involves. She enjoys accompanying her clients on their path through difficulty and grounds her work in an attuned and genuine understanding of her clients and their needs. ​ Cheryn has an affinity working with people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and her experience has enabled her to become resourceful in adapting therapies.
Cheryn is a Clinical Psychologist. Cheryn’s qualifications are a Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) and a Master of Clinical Psychology. Cheryn loves her work and is a very dedicated, warm and engaging therapist, with a keen sense of the privilege and responsibility that her role involves. She enjoys accompanying her clients on their path through difficulty and grounds her work in an attuned and genuine understanding of her clients and their needs. ​ Cheryn has an affinity working with people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and her experience has enabled her to become resourceful in adapting therapies.
(02) 8105 5998 View (02) 8105 5998
Photo of Dr Chrissy Antonopoulos, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Dr Chrissy Antonopoulos
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Online Only
I am a psychologist working with people experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, depression, trauma, eating and body image concerns, stress/life changes, grief/loss, chronic health conditions, chronic pain, and disability. I have an interest in assessment and experience with Autism, ADHD, learning, and adaptive functioning assessments. I can provide reports for NDIS and education/school plans. I have lived experience of disability and work from an affirming, collaborative and empowering framework. I work with people ages 16 and over and currently only offer Telehealth services.
I am a psychologist working with people experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, depression, trauma, eating and body image concerns, stress/life changes, grief/loss, chronic health conditions, chronic pain, and disability. I have an interest in assessment and experience with Autism, ADHD, learning, and adaptive functioning assessments. I can provide reports for NDIS and education/school plans. I have lived experience of disability and work from an affirming, collaborative and empowering framework. I work with people ages 16 and over and currently only offer Telehealth services.
(02) 9053 4329 View (02) 9053 4329
Photo of Shadi Gray, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Shadi Gray
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Whether you're struggling with mood disorders, addiction, personality disorders, ADHD, ASD, trauma, relationship difficulties, or want personal growth, I cater children, young adults and adults toward greater clarity, resilience, and connection.
A Psychologist Who Leads with Authenticity and Compassion. I'm a dedicated Sydney-based psychologist known for my radical authenticity and deep commitment to helping individuals and couples navigate mental health and relationship challenges. I creates a genuine, supportive space where real change happens embracing discomfort as a catalyst for growth. With a compassionate yet direct approach, I help clients break through emotional barriers, uncover new perspectives, and develop lasting strategies for well-being.
Whether you're struggling with mood disorders, addiction, personality disorders, ADHD, ASD, trauma, relationship difficulties, or want personal growth, I cater children, young adults and adults toward greater clarity, resilience, and connection.
A Psychologist Who Leads with Authenticity and Compassion. I'm a dedicated Sydney-based psychologist known for my radical authenticity and deep commitment to helping individuals and couples navigate mental health and relationship challenges. I creates a genuine, supportive space where real change happens embracing discomfort as a catalyst for growth. With a compassionate yet direct approach, I help clients break through emotional barriers, uncover new perspectives, and develop lasting strategies for well-being.
(02) 8000 0767 View (02) 8000 0767
Photo of Joseph Makdessi - Joseph Counselling & Psychotherapy, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Joseph Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
Individuals and couples seeking deeper self-understanding, emotional healing, and healthier relationships. Many come with anxiety, stress, grief, trauma, life transitions, or ongoing relational challenges, often feeling stuck or overwhelmed. They are motivated for meaningful change but need the right support. We help through evidence-based therapy and empathic listening, creating a safe space to build insight, regulate emotions, strengthen relationships, and move forward with clarity, resilience, and a stronger sense of self.
Individuals and couples seeking deeper self-understanding, emotional healing, and healthier relationships. Many come with anxiety, stress, grief, trauma, life transitions, or ongoing relational challenges, often feeling stuck or overwhelmed. They are motivated for meaningful change but need the right support. We help through evidence-based therapy and empathic listening, creating a safe space to build insight, regulate emotions, strengthen relationships, and move forward with clarity, resilience, and a stronger sense of self.
(02) 8105 5030 View (02) 8105 5030
Photo of Lorraine Wright - EMDR Consultation and Supervision, Social Worker, AMHSW
EMDR Consultation and Supervision
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
Lorraine Wright is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and EMDR Consultant with over 25 years of experience in trauma therapy. She specializes in complex post-traumatic stress, childhood sexual assault survivors, and domestic violence. Lorraine offers a holistic approach, integrating various therapies like EMDR, ACT, and DBT. She provides supervision and consultation to health professionals and sees clients through Open Arms, Victim Services, Medicare, and privately. With evidence-based practice and intuition, Lorraine guides individuals on their healing journey.
Lorraine Wright is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and EMDR Consultant with over 25 years of experience in trauma therapy. She specializes in complex post-traumatic stress, childhood sexual assault survivors, and domestic violence. Lorraine offers a holistic approach, integrating various therapies like EMDR, ACT, and DBT. She provides supervision and consultation to health professionals and sees clients through Open Arms, Victim Services, Medicare, and privately. With evidence-based practice and intuition, Lorraine guides individuals on their healing journey.
(02) 8294 9667 View (02) 8294 9667

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Maryam Zafari, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Maryam Zafari
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Online Only
I am an experienced Certified Addictions-Informed Professional (CAIMHP) and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), specialising in evidence-based therapeutic interventions and integrative treatment approaches to support sustainable recovery and lasting behavioral change.
Over the years, I have trained in Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). These frameworks have shaped my approach, allowing me to meet clients where they are, understanding how experiences shape core beliefs, emotional responses.
I am an experienced Certified Addictions-Informed Professional (CAIMHP) and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), specialising in evidence-based therapeutic interventions and integrative treatment approaches to support sustainable recovery and lasting behavioral change.
Over the years, I have trained in Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). These frameworks have shaped my approach, allowing me to meet clients where they are, understanding how experiences shape core beliefs, emotional responses.
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Addiction Therapists
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.