Addiction Counselling in Sydney, NSW

Photo of Emma Mansell, Counsellor in Sydney, NSW
Emma Mansell
Counsellor, PsychD, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
Hi, I’m Emma. I’m a therapist who works with adults on their mental health. My areas of specialist experience are trauma, anxiety, depression and substance misuse. I support people who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, grief or loss and addiction. I provide a person centred approach to therapy, which looks at individuals as a whole person. My method is narrative therapy which looks at your story and the patterns of behaviour the story. My style is relaxed and gentle to help guide you through whatever brings you to therapy.
Hi, I’m Emma. I’m a therapist who works with adults on their mental health. My areas of specialist experience are trauma, anxiety, depression and substance misuse. I support people who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, grief or loss and addiction. I provide a person centred approach to therapy, which looks at individuals as a whole person. My method is narrative therapy which looks at your story and the patterns of behaviour the story. My style is relaxed and gentle to help guide you through whatever brings you to therapy.
(02) 8403 2271 View (02) 8403 2271
Photo of Blue Horizon Counselling, Psychologist in Sydney, NSW
Blue Horizon Counselling
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
Therapy is a very personal experience so it’s important that you feel comfortable with your therapist and believe they’re a good fit for you. People will decide to see a psychologist for a range of different reasons... Often they’re experiencing some kind of stress, relationship difficulties, trauma or addiction… or sometimes they feel they just need someone to talk to. We start by talking about what brings you to the session. You may have clearly defined goals of what you’d like to achieve or, perhaps you’re not sure and you’re just trying to get a better understanding of yourself and your life experiences. Therapy is also about encouraging you to consider different ways of thinking, trying new strategies and learning new skills. It's ok if you feel that you’re stepping outside of your comfort zone. It’s not always easy to be in therapy, it takes a lot of courage to start, and to continue the process.
Therapy is a very personal experience so it’s important that you feel comfortable with your therapist and believe they’re a good fit for you. People will decide to see a psychologist for a range of different reasons... Often they’re experiencing some kind of stress, relationship difficulties, trauma or addiction… or sometimes they feel they just need someone to talk to. We start by talking about what brings you to the session. You may have clearly defined goals of what you’d like to achieve or, perhaps you’re not sure and you’re just trying to get a better understanding of yourself and your life experiences. Therapy is also about encouraging you to consider different ways of thinking, trying new strategies and learning new skills. It's ok if you feel that you’re stepping outside of your comfort zone. It’s not always easy to be in therapy, it takes a lot of courage to start, and to continue the process.
(02) 9158 6525 View (02) 9158 6525
Photo of Jessica Ryan-Zeman, Psychotherapist in Sydney, NSW
Jessica Ryan-Zeman
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
I specialise in working with adolescents and adults with suffering from eating disorders and body image concerns as well as addictions and substance abuse issues. I also provide support for families and partners. I want to go deeper than just providing short-term symptom relief. Often eating disorders or any addictive cycle is a coping mechanism for unresolved feelings or past trauma. My goal is to help my clients accept their feelings and also challenge limiting core beliefs in order to develop healthier coping mechanisms, better self-esteem and a life that is no longer dictated by the rules of their eating disorder or addiction .
I specialise in working with adolescents and adults with suffering from eating disorders and body image concerns as well as addictions and substance abuse issues. I also provide support for families and partners. I want to go deeper than just providing short-term symptom relief. Often eating disorders or any addictive cycle is a coping mechanism for unresolved feelings or past trauma. My goal is to help my clients accept their feelings and also challenge limiting core beliefs in order to develop healthier coping mechanisms, better self-esteem and a life that is no longer dictated by the rules of their eating disorder or addiction .
(02) 9100 0811 View (02) 9100 0811
Photo of Will Bonney, Psychotherapist in Sydney, NSW
Will Bonney
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
I am a psychotherapist, executive coach and clinical supervisor combining extensive corporate experience with post-graduate psychotherapy qualifications and experience. 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. My aim is for the client to gain insight, overcome obstacles and increase resources to confidently and enthusiastically live a rich and flourishing life.
I am a psychotherapist, executive coach and clinical supervisor combining extensive corporate experience with post-graduate psychotherapy qualifications and experience. 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. My aim is for the client to gain insight, overcome obstacles and increase resources to confidently and enthusiastically live a rich and flourishing life.
(02) 8073 8335 View (02) 8073 8335
Photo of Antonia Saunokonoko, Psychotherapist in Sydney, NSW
Antonia Saunokonoko
Psychotherapist, PhD, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
Are you struggling with an eating disorder, alcoholism or an addiction? Or are you already in recovery but experiencing high anxiety, coming up against obstacles in relationships, or finding your emotions overwhelming? If you're ready for change, I can provide you with the support you need to move beyond these difficulties and start living your life with purpose, peace, freedom and contentment.
Are you struggling with an eating disorder, alcoholism or an addiction? Or are you already in recovery but experiencing high anxiety, coming up against obstacles in relationships, or finding your emotions overwhelming? If you're ready for change, I can provide you with the support you need to move beyond these difficulties and start living your life with purpose, peace, freedom and contentment.
(02) 9159 6579 View (02) 9159 6579
Photo of Maria Mitrou, Counsellor in Sydney, NSW
Maria Mitrou
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
Depression and low mood, anxiety related disorders, anger management, adjustment issues, addiction, self-esteem, stress and health related concerns, life changes, dementia, Palliative support therapy and grief and loss, wellbeing in aged care and mental health programs.
Hi, and thank you for taking the time to read a little about me. I am a passionate Counselling professional assisting clients in reaching their full potential for many years, I provide therapy sessions in private practice, online and on the field.
Depression and low mood, anxiety related disorders, anger management, adjustment issues, addiction, self-esteem, stress and health related concerns, life changes, dementia, Palliative support therapy and grief and loss, wellbeing in aged care and mental health programs.
Hi, and thank you for taking the time to read a little about me. I am a passionate Counselling professional assisting clients in reaching their full potential for many years, I provide therapy sessions in private practice, online and on the field.
(02) 8188 3939 View (02) 8188 3939
Photo of Rosalynn Koh, Counsellor in Sydney, NSW
Rosalynn Koh
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
Rosalynn has worked extensively with children and adults. She understands the development stages of children and young adults well and has helped many to overcome issues such as depression, anxiety and addiction. Rosalynn is also an experienced counsellor working with adults who are suffering from various psychological issues and addiction. She has also worked with many clients who faced abuse and trauma.
Rosalynn has worked extensively with children and adults. She understands the development stages of children and young adults well and has helped many to overcome issues such as depression, anxiety and addiction. Rosalynn is also an experienced counsellor working with adults who are suffering from various psychological issues and addiction. She has also worked with many clients who faced abuse and trauma.
(02) 9100 0936 View (02) 9100 0936
Photo of Pat Wood-Collier, Counsellor in Sydney, NSW
Pat Wood-Collier
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
My experience is in trauma, addiction and crisis.
I am flexible and able to work with both males and females. Age does not preclude me from seeing someone. I am accepting of anyone who is looking for someone to listen to them and will give them a voice. I worked in Samaritans and Lifeline for 20 years as a centre supervisor, trainer and shift supervisor. I have recently been working with addiction and the family of the addict and am able to hold you in a safe space as you become self aware and self accepting.
My experience is in trauma, addiction and crisis.
I am flexible and able to work with both males and females. Age does not preclude me from seeing someone. I am accepting of anyone who is looking for someone to listen to them and will give them a voice. I worked in Samaritans and Lifeline for 20 years as a centre supervisor, trainer and shift supervisor. I have recently been working with addiction and the family of the addict and am able to hold you in a safe space as you become self aware and self accepting.
(02) 5504 5434 View (02) 5504 5434
Photo of The TARA Clinic, Psychologist in Sydney, NSW
The TARA Clinic
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
The TARA Clinic, where TARA is an acronym for Therapeutic Addiction Recovery Assistance, is the modern solution to addiction treatment.
Society has viewed addiction as a weakness that you are powerless over or a defect of character only impacting those from lower socioeconomic status. The reality is that addiction doesn't discriminate! The TARA Clinic helps busy and successful people to regain control over substance use and addiction while leaving the guilt and shame behind, because we believe that everyone deserves to find the freedom they truly crave.
The TARA Clinic, where TARA is an acronym for Therapeutic Addiction Recovery Assistance, is the modern solution to addiction treatment.
Society has viewed addiction as a weakness that you are powerless over or a defect of character only impacting those from lower socioeconomic status. The reality is that addiction doesn't discriminate! The TARA Clinic helps busy and successful people to regain control over substance use and addiction while leaving the guilt and shame behind, because we believe that everyone deserves to find the freedom they truly crave.
(02) 8074 5497 View (02) 8074 5497
Photo of EMDR and Trauma Treatment - Changes Group, Counsellor in Sydney, NSW
EMDR and Trauma Treatment - Changes Group
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
Are you struggling with PTSD, complex PTSD, or any addiction? Is your current therapy just not working even though you tried your hardest? Recent brain research tells us that talk therapy doesn't give us the expected outcomes we once thought. We know that traumatic incidents can affect us years later. Our brain stores past traumas in a particular way that tries to keep us safe from disturbing memories; we know that the trauma resurfaces elsewhere. It comes out in flashbacks, heightened nervous system responses or self-soothing behaviours, which result in addictions. If you feel like you are going around in circles, help is at hand.
Are you struggling with PTSD, complex PTSD, or any addiction? Is your current therapy just not working even though you tried your hardest? Recent brain research tells us that talk therapy doesn't give us the expected outcomes we once thought. We know that traumatic incidents can affect us years later. Our brain stores past traumas in a particular way that tries to keep us safe from disturbing memories; we know that the trauma resurfaces elsewhere. It comes out in flashbacks, heightened nervous system responses or self-soothing behaviours, which result in addictions. If you feel like you are going around in circles, help is at hand.
(02) 9909 6142 View (02) 9909 6142
Photo of Geoff Miles Counselling, Counsellor in Sydney, NSW
Geoff Miles Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
I have a strong committment to the value of life experiences and events, and understand the importance of placing them in a positive light. With attentive and empathetic listening I assist clients to confront and normalise those life events and factors that contribute to depression, anxiety and relational difficulties, and help live comfortably with them. I have worked since 2015 as a community chaplain in an area with challenges in addiction, mental illness, anxiety and depression. I farmed 20 years, 10 years manager of a Educational Christian Conference centre and 10 years founding and operating a software company.
I have a strong committment to the value of life experiences and events, and understand the importance of placing them in a positive light. With attentive and empathetic listening I assist clients to confront and normalise those life events and factors that contribute to depression, anxiety and relational difficulties, and help live comfortably with them. I have worked since 2015 as a community chaplain in an area with challenges in addiction, mental illness, anxiety and depression. I farmed 20 years, 10 years manager of a Educational Christian Conference centre and 10 years founding and operating a software company.
0435 998 089 View 0435 998 089
Photo of Carolyn Farrugia, Counsellor in Sydney, NSW
Carolyn Farrugia
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
Twelve yrs experience working in Mental Health & addiction, as well as a life-time of personal experience, I am sensitive to the needs of those who are struggling to be with their emotions, work on their relationships and problem solve their issues without making their problems worse.
Specialising in Dialectical Behavour Therapy, with 8 years experience. Offering 1:1 DBT coaching for clients who are currently in trauma therapy or other.
Twelve yrs experience working in Mental Health & addiction, as well as a life-time of personal experience, I am sensitive to the needs of those who are struggling to be with their emotions, work on their relationships and problem solve their issues without making their problems worse.
Specialising in Dialectical Behavour Therapy, with 8 years experience. Offering 1:1 DBT coaching for clients who are currently in trauma therapy or other.
(02) 7804 4223 View (02) 7804 4223
Photo of Anastasia Hronis, Psychologist in Sydney, NSW
Anastasia Hronis
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
anxiety, depression, anger, stress), as well as clients who have trauma, PTSD, addiction concerns, personality disorders, OCD, relationship concerns and eating disorders.
Dr Anastasia Hronis (B Psych Hons, M Clin Psych, AMusA, LMusA, Ph.D) is a clinical psychologist and founder of the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. Anastasia provides individual and group therapy. Anastasia also holds the position of Honorary Associate at the University of Technology Sydney, where she provides lectures and research supervision to students in the Master of Clinical Psychology Program.
anxiety, depression, anger, stress), as well as clients who have trauma, PTSD, addiction concerns, personality disorders, OCD, relationship concerns and eating disorders.
Dr Anastasia Hronis (B Psych Hons, M Clin Psych, AMusA, LMusA, Ph.D) is a clinical psychologist and founder of the Australian Institute for Human Wellness. Anastasia provides individual and group therapy. Anastasia also holds the position of Honorary Associate at the University of Technology Sydney, where she provides lectures and research supervision to students in the Master of Clinical Psychology Program.
(02) 8105 5006 View (02) 8105 5006
Photo of Amber Rules - Sydney Addictions Recovery, Psychotherapist in Sydney, NSW
Amber Rules - Sydney Addictions Recovery
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
I specialise in helping clients manage substance use issues, such as drugs, alcohol and tobacco, as well as potentially addictive behaviours such as gambling.
Do you struggle with drugs, alcohol, gambling or another addictive behaviour that is difficult to shake? Or are you a family member who is impacted by someone else's addictive behaviours? I can help you understand addiction and make sense of the chaos it causes in your life. Together, we'll use a combination of education, information and counselling support to ensure you can make choices that you're happy with, and live a life you're proud of. I also work with people experiencing complex mental and physical health issues that can accompany addiction, such as ADHD/ADD, chronic pain, relational difficulties, and psychiatric diagnoses.
I specialise in helping clients manage substance use issues, such as drugs, alcohol and tobacco, as well as potentially addictive behaviours such as gambling.
Do you struggle with drugs, alcohol, gambling or another addictive behaviour that is difficult to shake? Or are you a family member who is impacted by someone else's addictive behaviours? I can help you understand addiction and make sense of the chaos it causes in your life. Together, we'll use a combination of education, information and counselling support to ensure you can make choices that you're happy with, and live a life you're proud of. I also work with people experiencing complex mental and physical health issues that can accompany addiction, such as ADHD/ADD, chronic pain, relational difficulties, and psychiatric diagnoses.
(02) 9158 6064 View (02) 9158 6064
Photo of Brad Middleton, Counsellor in Sydney, NSW
Brad Middleton
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
As a trained Sex Addiction Therapist, I understand the processes of addiction and the cycle of shame and isolation.
While it's natural to engage in pleasurable activities & behaviours, when that engagement becomes compulsive, overwhelming, and out-of-control, the negative consequences can become destructive & unmanageable, especially when addicted to Sex & Porn. We sometimes adopt these behaviours as a means of gaining momentary relief from any pain, anxiety, or trauma that exists in our lives, but regularly feel intense shame and despair after acting out sexually. Then, shame & isolation serve to maintain the addictive cycle, as the problem becomes more complex & often impacts our intimate partner. Don't despair: Help and recovery is available!
As a trained Sex Addiction Therapist, I understand the processes of addiction and the cycle of shame and isolation.
While it's natural to engage in pleasurable activities & behaviours, when that engagement becomes compulsive, overwhelming, and out-of-control, the negative consequences can become destructive & unmanageable, especially when addicted to Sex & Porn. We sometimes adopt these behaviours as a means of gaining momentary relief from any pain, anxiety, or trauma that exists in our lives, but regularly feel intense shame and despair after acting out sexually. Then, shame & isolation serve to maintain the addictive cycle, as the problem becomes more complex & often impacts our intimate partner. Don't despair: Help and recovery is available!
(08) 6118 7606 View (08) 6118 7606
Photo of Jana Maddock Counselling, Counsellor in Sydney, NSW
Jana Maddock Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000  (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 Online Trauma Brainspotting Counsellor, Counsellor in Sydney, NSW
Online Trauma Brainspotting Counsellor
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
Brainspotting liberates brains from irrational fears, addiction, PTSD, OCD eating disorders, anxiety, & resolves trauma.
Dr Astrid Staley has 15+ years of experience using talk therapies, Neuropsychotherapy & Brainspotting, a cutting-edge therapy to move people toward optimal functioning. Her experience extends to Christian & non-Christian contexts. Choose a preferred style to support a holistic approach to wellbeing in body, mind, spirit. Counselling/Coaching/ Supervision packages. Specialised ages 16+ ADHD Coaching/ Counselling support & Eating Disorder Recovery Coaching/Counselling support. Neuro Change Personal Development Coaching/Counselling package. Supporting clients 16+ years.
Brainspotting liberates brains from irrational fears, addiction, PTSD, OCD eating disorders, anxiety, & resolves trauma.
Dr Astrid Staley has 15+ years of experience using talk therapies, Neuropsychotherapy & Brainspotting, a cutting-edge therapy to move people toward optimal functioning. Her experience extends to Christian & non-Christian contexts. Choose a preferred style to support a holistic approach to wellbeing in body, mind, spirit. Counselling/Coaching/ Supervision packages. Specialised ages 16+ ADHD Coaching/ Counselling support & Eating Disorder Recovery Coaching/Counselling support. Neuro Change Personal Development Coaching/Counselling package. Supporting clients 16+ years.
(03) 5615 6373 View (03) 5615 6373
Photo of Francesca Palazzolo, Psychotherapist in Sydney, NSW
Francesca Palazzolo
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you are struggling with a porn or sex addiction, (or have concerns about a partner/family member) a supportive, understanding therapist who understands your unique situation can be vital part of your recovery plan.
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 experience in youth mental health, alcohol and other drugs counselling and general 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 a porn or sex addiction, (or have concerns about a partner/family member) a supportive, understanding therapist who understands your unique situation can be vital part of your recovery plan.
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 experience in youth mental health, alcohol and other drugs counselling and general 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) 6118 7251 View (03) 6118 7251
Photo of Ingrid Glanowski - Emotional Growth, Psychologist in Sydney, NSW
Ingrid Glanowski - Emotional Growth
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
She works with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, stress, childhood trauma, addiction, self-esteem and grief.
Ingrid is registered psychologist who provides primarily after hours online therapy to adults via Telehealth. In therapy, the environment Ingrid creates is compassionate, animated and genuine. She enjoys building long-lasting and meaningful connections with clients, knowing that this can be a catalyst for a successful experience in therapy. Ingrid is specifically interested in clients who present with developmental/relational-trauma and utilises her knowledge of attachment theory and family systems to help clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves.
She works with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, stress, childhood trauma, addiction, self-esteem and grief.
Ingrid is registered psychologist who provides primarily after hours online therapy to adults via Telehealth. In therapy, the environment Ingrid creates is compassionate, animated and genuine. She enjoys building long-lasting and meaningful connections with clients, knowing that this can be a catalyst for a successful experience in therapy. Ingrid is specifically interested in clients who present with developmental/relational-trauma and utilises her knowledge of attachment theory and family systems to help clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves.
(03) 9994 1814 View (03) 9994 1814
Photo of Tammy Maskill, Counsellor in Sydney, NSW
Tammy Maskill
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
With lived experience of trauma and substance addiction, I understand how trauma, especially from our childhood, can impact every aspect of our lives.
I work primarily with trauma, alcohol and other drug use and behavioural addictions. I work with you to shed the layers of your trauma, heal unresolved wounds, and create a life that you don’t need to numb yourself to and escape from. I have a bachelor’s degree in counselling and have carried out (and continue to carry out) further training in trauma. Before moving into private practice, I worked as an Alcohol and Other Drug Clinician within the community sector.
With lived experience of trauma and substance addiction, I understand how trauma, especially from our childhood, can impact every aspect of our lives.
I work primarily with trauma, alcohol and other drug use and behavioural addictions. I work with you to shed the layers of your trauma, heal unresolved wounds, and create a life that you don’t need to numb yourself to and escape from. I have a bachelor’s degree in counselling and have carried out (and continue to carry out) further training in trauma. Before moving into private practice, I worked as an Alcohol and Other Drug Clinician within the community sector.
(03) 9118 9023 View (03) 9118 9023

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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.