Addiction Counselling in Metropolitan Adelaide, SA

Photo of Rachel Humeniuk - AOD Psychology - Dr Rachel Humeniuk, PhD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
AOD Psychology - Dr Rachel Humeniuk
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
I specialise in helping adults with their alcohol and/or or substance use problems. I am a Registered Psychologist and have a PhD in Psychopharmacology with a special focus on addiction. I have a long-standing interest in the field of drug and alcohol issues and associated treatments. I provide treatment for issues relating to alcohol, cannabis, benzodiazepines, Z-drugs, opioids, nicotine and GHB.
I specialise in helping adults with their alcohol and/or or substance use problems. I am a Registered Psychologist and have a PhD in Psychopharmacology with a special focus on addiction. I have a long-standing interest in the field of drug and alcohol issues and associated treatments. I provide treatment for issues relating to alcohol, cannabis, benzodiazepines, Z-drugs, opioids, nicotine and GHB.
(08) 7008 9362 View (08) 7008 9362
Photo of Louise Flaherty, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Louise Flaherty
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Moana, SA 5169
Extensive experience in Addiction, Domestic Violence, Gottman Couples Therapy, Life Coaching, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy.
I work holstically with adults, couples, families & teens who want understand how they can make change in their lives. I can be a neutral person to assist with skills to change or cope better with the situation. I love working with on life direction - Relationship struggles - Addiction - grief & loss - NDIS support - Nature therapy
Extensive experience in Addiction, Domestic Violence, Gottman Couples Therapy, Life Coaching, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy.
I work holstically with adults, couples, families & teens who want understand how they can make change in their lives. I can be a neutral person to assist with skills to change or cope better with the situation. I love working with on life direction - Relationship struggles - Addiction - grief & loss - NDIS support - Nature therapy
(08) 7184 0782 View (08) 7184 0782
Photo of Dr Ben Stewart, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Ben Stewart
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Goodwood, SA 5034
I am a clinical psychologist experienced in working with adults and adolescents with a range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, personality disorders and other longstanding problems.
I understand that being vulnerable and engaging in therapy can be daunting and overwhelming. I have a warm, empathic and non-judgemental approach, which helps to build the trusting therapeutic relationship which is so important to achieving positive mental health outcomes. Please get in touch to see how I can help you with your mental health journey.
I am a clinical psychologist experienced in working with adults and adolescents with a range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, personality disorders and other longstanding problems.
I understand that being vulnerable and engaging in therapy can be daunting and overwhelming. I have a warm, empathic and non-judgemental approach, which helps to build the trusting therapeutic relationship which is so important to achieving positive mental health outcomes. Please get in touch to see how I can help you with your mental health journey.
(08) 7008 9274 View (08) 7008 9274
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 Elmien Britz, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elmien Britz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Magill, SA 5072
My specialist understanding of complex problems such as addiction management, compulsive disorders and mood disorders give me a firm therapeutic framework to assist clients.
Clients who engage with me are committed to personal growth and are seeking an individual who can often just be a witness to their reality. Personal growth requires courage, courage to be honest and courage to admit that there are certain components in our lives we are unable to change. I have been privileged to be part of the self-actualization journey of numerous individuals over the years and I have come to understand that we all have the ability to evolve. Therapy is not for the faint hearted yet it is one of the best investments in yourself you will ever make.
My specialist understanding of complex problems such as addiction management, compulsive disorders and mood disorders give me a firm therapeutic framework to assist clients.
Clients who engage with me are committed to personal growth and are seeking an individual who can often just be a witness to their reality. Personal growth requires courage, courage to be honest and courage to admit that there are certain components in our lives we are unable to change. I have been privileged to be part of the self-actualization journey of numerous individuals over the years and I have come to understand that we all have the ability to evolve. Therapy is not for the faint hearted yet it is one of the best investments in yourself you will ever make.
(08) 7228 0326 View (08) 7228 0326
Photo of Simon Bartz - Elevate Counselling, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Elevate Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brighton, SA 5048
I’ve focused my considerable lived experience with men’s mental health, addiction and grief & loss into my counselling.
Guys...do you feel like it may be time for some changes, but don’t know where to start? Monotonous cycles form the ‘daily grind’ and can lead to procrastination, anxieties, diminished self-worth or addiction. I know how harrowing this can be. Reaching out for help can often be the most daunting part, and talking with family or friends can feel too close to home. Don’t let your thoughts and feelings take a back seat by internalising or ignoring them. Left unaddressed, this can considerably influence your mental wellbeing by clouding over a sense of hope, a brighter future & the best version of you. So what’s the next step?
I’ve focused my considerable lived experience with men’s mental health, addiction and grief & loss into my counselling.
Guys...do you feel like it may be time for some changes, but don’t know where to start? Monotonous cycles form the ‘daily grind’ and can lead to procrastination, anxieties, diminished self-worth or addiction. I know how harrowing this can be. Reaching out for help can often be the most daunting part, and talking with family or friends can feel too close to home. Don’t let your thoughts and feelings take a back seat by internalising or ignoring them. Left unaddressed, this can considerably influence your mental wellbeing by clouding over a sense of hope, a brighter future & the best version of you. So what’s the next step?
(08) 7184 5942 View (08) 7184 5942
Photo of Jana Maddock - Jana Maddock Counselling, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Jana Maddock Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
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 Ingrid Glanowski, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Ingrid Glanowski
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
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 johanna Waugh - Johanna - Counsellor/ Psychosexual therapist , MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Johanna - Counsellor/ Psychosexual therapist
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Adelaide, SA 5000
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 Emma Mansell, PsychD, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Emma Mansell
Counsellor, PsychD, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
Hi, I’m Emma. I’m a therapist supporting people who struggle with mental health/ addiction. 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. I am a narrative therapist and will look at your story and the patterns of behaviour. My style is relaxed and gentle to help guide you through whatever brings you to therapy.
Hi, I’m Emma. I’m a therapist supporting people who struggle with mental health/ addiction. 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. I am a narrative therapist and will look at your story and the patterns of behaviour. 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 Dr Astrid Staley - Online Trauma Brainspotting Counsellor, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Online Trauma Brainspotting Counsellor
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
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, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Francesca Palazzolo
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Adelaide, SA 5000
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 Bridie Gigney - Just Breathe Therapy Services , AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Just Breathe Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, SA 5112
Focused Psychological strategies We can assist in the following areas: Depression Anxiety Disorders PTSD Obsessive compulsive Substance Abuse/ Addiction Behaviour Relationship Concerns Parent / Child conflict Trauma Dissociation and dissociative disorders.
Just Breathe Values The Ability To Understand, Have Compassion And Share Feelings are Paramount to Building New Experiences And Sets The Stage For Achieving Measurable, Positive Change. Therapy Is A Collaborative Approach Founded On Mutual Trust And Respect And Is Founded In Cooperation. Positive Change And Growth Are Possible As We All Have The Tools Necessary To Lead A Rich And Fulfilling Life We All Possess The Quality To Be Outstanding And Achieving Excellence Is Possible Honesty And Showing A Consistent Adherence To Strong Moral And Ethical Principles And Values Is Of The Utmost Importance.
Focused Psychological strategies We can assist in the following areas: Depression Anxiety Disorders PTSD Obsessive compulsive Substance Abuse/ Addiction Behaviour Relationship Concerns Parent / Child conflict Trauma Dissociation and dissociative disorders.
Just Breathe Values The Ability To Understand, Have Compassion And Share Feelings are Paramount to Building New Experiences And Sets The Stage For Achieving Measurable, Positive Change. Therapy Is A Collaborative Approach Founded On Mutual Trust And Respect And Is Founded In Cooperation. Positive Change And Growth Are Possible As We All Have The Tools Necessary To Lead A Rich And Fulfilling Life We All Possess The Quality To Be Outstanding And Achieving Excellence Is Possible Honesty And Showing A Consistent Adherence To Strong Moral And Ethical Principles And Values Is Of The Utmost Importance.
(08) 7534 5994 View (08) 7534 5994
Photo of Daniel Brightwell, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Daniel Brightwell
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Online Only
With over a decade of experience, I bring expertise in working with individuals facing addiction, anxiety, and life transitions.
I am experienced working with people who are struggling with addiction, anxiety, stress, and adjustment challenges. This includes issues such as gambling, substance use, porn use, technology overuse, and difficulties with life transitions. The clients I work with present with a need to better understand their experiences, develop effective strategies for managing stressors, and foster self-compassion. Their goals frequently involve breaking free from unhelpful patterns, enhancing resilience, improving interpersonal relationships, and aligning their behaviors with their core values, striving towards more purpose in life.
With over a decade of experience, I bring expertise in working with individuals facing addiction, anxiety, and life transitions.
I am experienced working with people who are struggling with addiction, anxiety, stress, and adjustment challenges. This includes issues such as gambling, substance use, porn use, technology overuse, and difficulties with life transitions. The clients I work with present with a need to better understand their experiences, develop effective strategies for managing stressors, and foster self-compassion. Their goals frequently involve breaking free from unhelpful patterns, enhancing resilience, improving interpersonal relationships, and aligning their behaviors with their core values, striving towards more purpose in life.
(02) 8000 1158 View (02) 8000 1158
Photo of Izumi Yamaguchi, MA, ACA-L3, Counsellor
Izumi Yamaguchi
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
I have experienced with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, grief, addiction, adjustment problems and relationship concerns.
I am passionate to help clients overcome their challenges and take meaningful steps toward a better future. By exploring clients' internal conflicts and working on underlying vulnerabilities, I assist clients in finding ways together to alleviate or solve them.
I have experienced with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, grief, addiction, adjustment problems and relationship concerns.
I am passionate to help clients overcome their challenges and take meaningful steps toward a better future. By exploring clients' internal conflicts and working on underlying vulnerabilities, I assist clients in finding ways together to alleviate or solve them.
(03) 7003 2420 View (03) 7003 2420
Photo of Sasha Gobbart Mason, PACFA, Counsellor
Sasha Gobbart Mason
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I hold a Bachelor's degree in Counselling and have done further training in substance use and Somatic Experiencing.
I work primarily with females experiencing mental health issues, burnout, stress and substance use. I see people through a holistic lens and aim to support you to find integration between mind, body and emotions. With lived experience, I understand how trauma disconnects us from our bodies and how difficult it is to sit with our emotions.
I hold a Bachelor's degree in Counselling and have done further training in substance use and Somatic Experiencing.
I work primarily with females experiencing mental health issues, burnout, stress and substance use. I see people through a holistic lens and aim to support you to find integration between mind, body and emotions. With lived experience, I understand how trauma disconnects us from our bodies and how difficult it is to sit with our emotions.
View
Photo of Brad Middleton, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Brad Middleton
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Adelaide, SA 5000
Treatment for Sex & Porn Addiction should be individualized, and requires significant psycho-education.
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!
Treatment for Sex & Porn Addiction should be individualized, and requires significant psycho-education.
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 Miriam Rose Lovelock - Miriam Lovelock, MA, PACFA, Counsellor
Miriam Lovelock
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stirling, SA 5152
I have worked in the helping professions for nine years helping clients work through depression, anxiety and addiction. With this experience, I bring an authentic and compassionate approach to counselling. I want to enable clients to tell their stories in a safe environment, to work through their issues, to heal and to work alongside them to create a life of depth and meaning.
I have worked in the helping professions for nine years helping clients work through depression, anxiety and addiction. With this experience, I bring an authentic and compassionate approach to counselling. I want to enable clients to tell their stories in a safe environment, to work through their issues, to heal and to work alongside them to create a life of depth and meaning.
(08) 7282 0666 View (08) 7282 0666
Photo of Mike Daniel Carroll - Mike Carroll, MC Counselling, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Mike Carroll, MC Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
I want to help you overcome the current challenges you are facing. You may be new to counselling and I want to make this a positive experience for you. I am a professional counsellor with lived experience of addiction and mental illness and I bring this knowledge to help you. Additionally, post pandemic, life is very different than it was four years ago and this maybe the reason you are seeking help. You may be unsure of why it is you are feeling the way you do and would like someone to talk to.
I want to help you overcome the current challenges you are facing. You may be new to counselling and I want to make this a positive experience for you. I am a professional counsellor with lived experience of addiction and mental illness and I bring this knowledge to help you. Additionally, post pandemic, life is very different than it was four years ago and this maybe the reason you are seeking help. You may be unsure of why it is you are feeling the way you do and would like someone to talk to.
(03) 6419 9437 View (03) 6419 9437
Photo of Veronica A Collins, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Veronica A Collins
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
I offer holistic psychotherapy and counselling to address issues of inner and outer conflict, depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, low confidence, grief and loss. By facilitating the expanding of self-awareness there's growth in health and wholeness; becoming more authentic, purposeful & integrated; and creating better harmony within relationships. Offering parent/child relationship work.
I offer holistic psychotherapy and counselling to address issues of inner and outer conflict, depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, low confidence, grief and loss. By facilitating the expanding of self-awareness there's growth in health and wholeness; becoming more authentic, purposeful & integrated; and creating better harmony within relationships. Offering parent/child relationship work.
(03) 4410 8583 View (03) 4410 8583
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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.