Addiction Counselling in Darwin City, NT

Photo of Nicola Coalter, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Nicola Coalter
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Darwin City, NT 0800
Feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Whether you're dealing with addiction, stress, anxiety, depression, or past traumas, you're not alone. I'm here to work with you through these tough times, offering practical support and strategies to help you find your way. Let's tackle these issues together and discover paths to meaningful change and growth.
Feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Whether you're dealing with addiction, stress, anxiety, depression, or past traumas, you're not alone. I'm here to work with you through these tough times, offering practical support and strategies to help you find your way. Let's tackle these issues together and discover paths to meaningful change and growth.
(08) 7948 6794 View (08) 7948 6794
Photo of Ingrid Glanowski - Emotional Growth, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Ingrid Glanowski - Emotional Growth
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Darwin City, NT 0800
She works with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, stress, childhood trauma, addiction, self-esteem and grief.
Ingrid is registered psychologist who provides in person therapy to clients in Melbourne and online therapy to clients Australia wide. 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 in person therapy to clients in Melbourne and online therapy to clients Australia wide. 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 Bronte Galek - Anahata counselling, MC, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Anahata counselling
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Verified Verified
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
Darwin City, NT 0800
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 johanna Waugh - Johanna - Counsellor/ Psychosexual therapist , MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Johanna - Counsellor/ Psychosexual therapist
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Darwin City, NT 0800
Working with singles, couples, and families is Johanna's primary focus. She also works with men and women experiencing problems related to their sexual health, including erectile dysfunction and delayed ejaculation. For women, she treats low sexual desire, fertility issues, conception-related misconceptions, hypoactive sexual desire disorder, and out-of-control sexual behaviours like sex, porn addiction. Johanna is accommodating to sex workers. Additionally, she is LGBTQ, kink, and fetish friendly, and she can work with poly/open partnerships
Working with singles, couples, and families is Johanna's primary focus. She also works with men and women experiencing problems related to their sexual health, including erectile dysfunction and delayed ejaculation. For women, she treats low sexual desire, fertility issues, conception-related misconceptions, hypoactive sexual desire disorder, and out-of-control sexual behaviours like sex, porn addiction. Johanna is accommodating to sex workers. Additionally, she is LGBTQ, kink, and fetish friendly, and she can work with poly/open partnerships
(02) 9100 0121 View (02) 9100 0121
Photo of Carlyn Chen, PACFA, Counsellor
Carlyn Chen
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Darwin City, NT 0800
I am experienced seeing clients with issues such as attachment trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, oppression, racism, cultural issues, sexual abuse, childhood trauma, identity issues, religious trauma, grief, domestic violence, family issues and relationships.
I am a Teochew person working on Gadigal land, working to decolonise myself and my therapy to offer culturally sensitive and inclusive counselling to people of all cultures and identities. I offer trauma-informed, integrative therapy that will be tailored to your needs, taking into account mind, body, nervous system, emotions and context. I believe in the innate capacity of each person to heal and will work collaboratively with you to uncover and grow this. I have provided holistic counselling and case management support to young people and adults experiencing complex trauma in the not for profit and health sectors since 2015.
I am experienced seeing clients with issues such as attachment trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, oppression, racism, cultural issues, sexual abuse, childhood trauma, identity issues, religious trauma, grief, domestic violence, family issues and relationships.
I am a Teochew person working on Gadigal land, working to decolonise myself and my therapy to offer culturally sensitive and inclusive counselling to people of all cultures and identities. I offer trauma-informed, integrative therapy that will be tailored to your needs, taking into account mind, body, nervous system, emotions and context. I believe in the innate capacity of each person to heal and will work collaboratively with you to uncover and grow this. I have provided holistic counselling and case management support to young people and adults experiencing complex trauma in the not for profit and health sectors since 2015.
(02) 9100 0467 View (02) 9100 0467
Photo of Madonna Keightley - Beyond Betrayal Counselling, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Beyond Betrayal Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Darwin City, NT 0800
Have you just discovered your partner is cheating on you? Or perhaps he's visiting strip clubs or brothels? Maybe he's had multiple affairs or having sex with women he's met on dating apps? Are you wondering if he has a sex or porn addiction? I am an experienced counsellor who knows the pain of intimate partner betrayal. I have been where you are now. Visit my website for information on betrayal trauma and resources.
Have you just discovered your partner is cheating on you? Or perhaps he's visiting strip clubs or brothels? Maybe he's had multiple affairs or having sex with women he's met on dating apps? Are you wondering if he has a sex or porn addiction? I am an experienced counsellor who knows the pain of intimate partner betrayal. I have been where you are now. Visit my website for information on betrayal trauma and resources.
(03) 7003 2380 View (03) 7003 2380
Photo of Susanne McAllister, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Susanne McAllister
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Darwin City, NT 0800
I help with anxiety, trauma, PTSD, CPTSD, depression, addiction, grief, and mental health with EMDR, Mindfulness, CBT, and Amino Acid Therapy. This will not only ease symptoms but fundamentally change your life's experience. These methods promise more than healing; they open a door to newfound happiness, energy, and a profound sense of well-being. With Telehealth, access this personalised path from any location, blending convenience with deep, meaningful change. This journey is about rediscovering your inner strength and embracing life with renewed purpose, optimism and reconnected with joy in your daily life.
I help with anxiety, trauma, PTSD, CPTSD, depression, addiction, grief, and mental health with EMDR, Mindfulness, CBT, and Amino Acid Therapy. This will not only ease symptoms but fundamentally change your life's experience. These methods promise more than healing; they open a door to newfound happiness, energy, and a profound sense of well-being. With Telehealth, access this personalised path from any location, blending convenience with deep, meaningful change. This journey is about rediscovering your inner strength and embracing life with renewed purpose, optimism and reconnected with joy in your daily life.
(03) 7003 2035 View (03) 7003 2035
Photo of Margot Trinder, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist
Margot Trinder
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
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 Samantha Shepherd - Ability To Thrive Counselling and Life Coaching, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Ability To Thrive Counselling and Life Coaching
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Darwin City, NT 0800
I have worked for 13 years as a counsellor and life coach in a residential rehabilitation setting providing me with a wealth of skills and knowledge in working with people experiencing substance misuse issues with coexisting mental health diagnosis and related traumas including legal, personal, family and relationship challenges.
I am a registered Counsellor, Psychosocial Recovery Coach and Supervisor who offers support both via telehealth and face to face by arrangement I have an empathic, compassionate approach through which I provide a safe, nonjudgemental space to work collaboratively in encouraging and empowering people to navigate challenges in their day-to-day life and achieve their goals. I take a holistic approach encompassing the mental, emotional, physical, social and wellbeing. I use a client centred, solution focused and trauma informed approach using a mix of CBT, ACT and DBT methodologies.
I have worked for 13 years as a counsellor and life coach in a residential rehabilitation setting providing me with a wealth of skills and knowledge in working with people experiencing substance misuse issues with coexisting mental health diagnosis and related traumas including legal, personal, family and relationship challenges.
I am a registered Counsellor, Psychosocial Recovery Coach and Supervisor who offers support both via telehealth and face to face by arrangement I have an empathic, compassionate approach through which I provide a safe, nonjudgemental space to work collaboratively in encouraging and empowering people to navigate challenges in their day-to-day life and achieve their goals. I take a holistic approach encompassing the mental, emotional, physical, social and wellbeing. I use a client centred, solution focused and trauma informed approach using a mix of CBT, ACT and DBT methodologies.
(07) 3477 9563 View (07) 3477 9563
Photo of Layla Oueidat - Layla at Time and Space Counselling, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Layla at Time and Space Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Online Only
I bring an open mind to the challenges of navigating identity, discrimination, addiction, and the impacts of war or systemic violence, using anti-colonial, culturally sensitive, neuro-affirming approaches.
If you're feeling weighed down by life's challenges, be it mental health, substance use or other possibly addictions, identity, memories, ongoing stress, or cultural and systemic barriers—you're not alone. Whether you identify as BIPOC, bicultural, third-cultured, or any other identity, this is a space where we can work together so your experiences feel understood and heard. As someone from the MENA/SWANA region, I welcome others from there to reach out. Together, we can explore and process your past or present struggles—be it generational patterns, discrimination, addiction, or finding your path forward.
I bring an open mind to the challenges of navigating identity, discrimination, addiction, and the impacts of war or systemic violence, using anti-colonial, culturally sensitive, neuro-affirming approaches.
If you're feeling weighed down by life's challenges, be it mental health, substance use or other possibly addictions, identity, memories, ongoing stress, or cultural and systemic barriers—you're not alone. Whether you identify as BIPOC, bicultural, third-cultured, or any other identity, this is a space where we can work together so your experiences feel understood and heard. As someone from the MENA/SWANA region, I welcome others from there to reach out. Together, we can explore and process your past or present struggles—be it generational patterns, discrimination, addiction, or finding your path forward.
(03) 8771 4367 View (03) 8771 4367
Photo of Shagoon Maurya, MA, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Shagoon Maurya
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Darwin City, NT 0800
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 Sudhir Dean, ACA-L3, Counsellor
Sudhir Dean
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
Darwin City, NT 0800
I have worked with clients with a broad range of issues and with a broad range of backgrounds ( substance use, homelessness, mental health, existential enquiry and much more). No matter what solution each person seeks, the starting point is always towards self-acceptance and increased awareness.
I have worked with clients with a broad range of issues and with a broad range of backgrounds ( substance use, homelessness, mental health, existential enquiry and much more). No matter what solution each person seeks, the starting point is always towards self-acceptance and increased awareness.
(03) 7003 2419 View (03) 7003 2419
Photo of Rhiannon Flavel, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Rhiannon Flavel
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Darwin City, NT 0800
I work with adults & adolescents experiencing complex trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, anger, life transitions, grief & loss, overwhelm & stress, LGBTQIA+ issues, & relational challenges between people who long to connect more fully.
My approach as a psychotherapist is holistic, non-judgemental, trauma informed & deeply relational. I have worked in various roles including mental health counselling, outdoor education teaching, adventure therapy, wilderness rites of passage, & group facilitation for over a decade, supporting adults, young people & families. I bring these diverse experiences into my therapeutic practice to offer a specialised approach to this transformational work.
I work with adults & adolescents experiencing complex trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, anger, life transitions, grief & loss, overwhelm & stress, LGBTQIA+ issues, & relational challenges between people who long to connect more fully.
My approach as a psychotherapist is holistic, non-judgemental, trauma informed & deeply relational. I have worked in various roles including mental health counselling, outdoor education teaching, adventure therapy, wilderness rites of passage, & group facilitation for over a decade, supporting adults, young people & families. I bring these diverse experiences into my therapeutic practice to offer a specialised approach to this transformational work.
(02) 5016 7519 View (02) 5016 7519
Photo of Jade Wren Pearson - Wren Counselling, PACFA, Counsellor
Wren Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Online Only
My wealth of lived experiences including gender transition inform my collaborative client centred counselling approach. Whilst presenting issues may include depression, anxiety, identity incongruence, dysphoria, trauma, interpersonal challenges, addiction, loneliness, and more, I seek to work with the underlying causes as I believe that through addressing the root causes of the presenting symptoms that psychological wellbeing can be achieved without judgement or further pathologisation.
My wealth of lived experiences including gender transition inform my collaborative client centred counselling approach. Whilst presenting issues may include depression, anxiety, identity incongruence, dysphoria, trauma, interpersonal challenges, addiction, loneliness, and more, I seek to work with the underlying causes as I believe that through addressing the root causes of the presenting symptoms that psychological wellbeing can be achieved without judgement or further pathologisation.
0434 080 166 View 0434 080 166
Photo of Nicole Trewick | Psychologist | Zenith Humans, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Nicole Trewick | Psychologist | Zenith Humans
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Darwin City, NT 0800
Nicole provides both short-term and long-term therapy to help support and empower individuals to process traumatic experiences, overcome addiction and distress, create meaningful change, and improve emotional wellbeing.
Nicole is a clinical psychologist who provides evidence-based client-centric interventions for a range of psychological presentations including trauma (PTSD, complex trauma/PTSD), psychosis (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder), addictions, mood disorders, stress and burnout, anxiety, and life transitions. She also works with athletes and professionals who need support for their wellbeing and development of mental skills to improve performance.
Nicole provides both short-term and long-term therapy to help support and empower individuals to process traumatic experiences, overcome addiction and distress, create meaningful change, and improve emotional wellbeing.
Nicole is a clinical psychologist who provides evidence-based client-centric interventions for a range of psychological presentations including trauma (PTSD, complex trauma/PTSD), psychosis (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder), addictions, mood disorders, stress and burnout, anxiety, and life transitions. She also works with athletes and professionals who need support for their wellbeing and development of mental skills to improve performance.
(07) 2801 5339 View (07) 2801 5339
Photo of Ros de Virieux, AASW, Counsellor
Ros de Virieux
Counsellor, AASW
Verified Verified
Darwin City, NT 0800
I am a senior social worker with many years experience in private practice and working in government and non-government agencies across Australia. I have worked with men, women, children and families, including people from different backgrounds such as Military personal, veterans and their families, Indigenous language groups, migrants and humanitarian entrants, and prisoners, just to name a few. I am a confident, highly motivated professional and take pride in my ability to communicate, both orally and written, with clients, management and supporting agencies to ensure a high level and comprehensive service.
I am a senior social worker with many years experience in private practice and working in government and non-government agencies across Australia. I have worked with men, women, children and families, including people from different backgrounds such as Military personal, veterans and their families, Indigenous language groups, migrants and humanitarian entrants, and prisoners, just to name a few. I am a confident, highly motivated professional and take pride in my ability to communicate, both orally and written, with clients, management and supporting agencies to ensure a high level and comprehensive service.
(03) 6361 2689 View (03) 6361 2689
Photo of Frederick P Hamden - Frederick Hamden-Mindscape NQ Counselling Services, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Frederick Hamden-Mindscape NQ Counselling Services
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Darwin City, NT 0800
I specialize in being human! and helping clients navigate challenging emotional and mental states with clarity and efficiency. My work is particularly focused on the reasons "why." From personal experience, I deeply understand how early-life trauma shapes emotions and behaviors, and I provide a safe space for clients to process their experiences and resolve inner pain. I’m skilled at addressing pervasive emotions such as grief, anxiety, and depression. My approach emphasizes psychoeducation, practical strategies, and empowering clients to take actionable steps toward
I specialize in being human! and helping clients navigate challenging emotional and mental states with clarity and efficiency. My work is particularly focused on the reasons "why." From personal experience, I deeply understand how early-life trauma shapes emotions and behaviors, and I provide a safe space for clients to process their experiences and resolve inner pain. I’m skilled at addressing pervasive emotions such as grief, anxiety, and depression. My approach emphasizes psychoeducation, practical strategies, and empowering clients to take actionable steps toward
(07) 4439 9777 View (07) 4439 9777
Photo of Luis del Valle - ACE Counselling, PhD, Counsellor
ACE Counselling
Counsellor, PhD
Verified Verified
Darwin City, NT 0800
The client informs my counselling approach, not any theory or modality. It's about making the client feel comfortable and being able to communicate confidently with an end goal in sight. I follow the 80/20 rule in counselling; the client talks 80% of the time, and I respond 20% of the time. With 13+ years working as a mental health nurse, both in the private and public sector, I have helped hundreds of clients and I am versed in all facets of mental health counselling. As a counsellor, I offer a safe and non-judgmental space for personal growth and healing, helping individuals overcome challenges to achieve lasting positive change.
The client informs my counselling approach, not any theory or modality. It's about making the client feel comfortable and being able to communicate confidently with an end goal in sight. I follow the 80/20 rule in counselling; the client talks 80% of the time, and I respond 20% of the time. With 13+ years working as a mental health nurse, both in the private and public sector, I have helped hundreds of clients and I am versed in all facets of mental health counselling. As a counsellor, I offer a safe and non-judgmental space for personal growth and healing, helping individuals overcome challenges to achieve lasting positive change.
(03) 6364 2946 View (03) 6364 2946
White Lotus Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Aracely Duran and I work with clients that seek support for complex issues like trauma, anxiety, or family dynamics. They value a therapist who listens without judgment and offers practical strategies for coping and growth. Their goals include healing, improving relationships, and finding inner peace. They want to understand themselves better and navigate life's challenges with resilience. Ultimately, they seek a path to emotional well-being and a more fulfilling life, driven by a desire for personal growth and meaningful connections.
My name is Aracely Duran and I work with clients that seek support for complex issues like trauma, anxiety, or family dynamics. They value a therapist who listens without judgment and offers practical strategies for coping and growth. Their goals include healing, improving relationships, and finding inner peace. They want to understand themselves better and navigate life's challenges with resilience. Ultimately, they seek a path to emotional well-being and a more fulfilling life, driven by a desire for personal growth and meaningful connections.
(02) 9100 0440 View (02) 9100 0440
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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.