Addiction Therapists in Calgary, AB

Photo of Awakening Change Counselling & Consulting Inc, Registered Social Worker in Calgary, AB
Awakening Change Counselling & Consulting Inc
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2H
At Awakening Change our goal is to provide a safe and collaborative environment for you to work toward personal growth and change to achieve wellness. We specialize in trauma work, as well as issues such as anxiety, addiction, depression, work stress, family issues, work/life balance and parenting.
At Awakening Change our goal is to provide a safe and collaborative environment for you to work toward personal growth and change to achieve wellness. We specialize in trauma work, as well as issues such as anxiety, addiction, depression, work stress, family issues, work/life balance and parenting.
(587) 705-0387 View (587) 705-0387
Photo of Lara Palset, Counsellor in Calgary, AB
Lara Palset
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3M
Using CBT, DBT, attachment theory, and other modalities, My hope is to equip you with the tools to navigate stress and to better manage your addiction.
Right now, you might feel tense and stressed. Your irritability is escalating, straining your relationships. So, you tend to isolate yourself. Seeking solace through addictive behaviours offers temporary relief, but only worsens your situation. Despite your best intentions, you inadvertently cause harm to those closest to you. You struggle with managing the anxiety, fear, anger, and stress that gets in the way of your desired way of life. You aren’t the kind of parent, partner, sibling, adolescent, or employee you want to be. Your internal turmoil and self-critical thoughts plague your mind. You feel you will never measure up.
Using CBT, DBT, attachment theory, and other modalities, My hope is to equip you with the tools to navigate stress and to better manage your addiction.
Right now, you might feel tense and stressed. Your irritability is escalating, straining your relationships. So, you tend to isolate yourself. Seeking solace through addictive behaviours offers temporary relief, but only worsens your situation. Despite your best intentions, you inadvertently cause harm to those closest to you. You struggle with managing the anxiety, fear, anger, and stress that gets in the way of your desired way of life. You aren’t the kind of parent, partner, sibling, adolescent, or employee you want to be. Your internal turmoil and self-critical thoughts plague your mind. You feel you will never measure up.
(825) 250-0657 View (825) 250-0657
Photo of Ben Gallivan, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Ben Gallivan
Psychologist, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2T
The bulk of my experience is working with young people, families, and adults dealing with addiction, trauma, mental health concerns, and family relationship issues. I have also extensive experience working with parents / guardians coping with the stress caused by behavioural issues at home.
The bulk of my experience is working with young people, families, and adults dealing with addiction, trauma, mental health concerns, and family relationship issues. I have also extensive experience working with parents / guardians coping with the stress caused by behavioural issues at home.
(866) 813-3629 View (866) 813-3629
Photo of Anthony Grey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Anthony Grey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, TITC-CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2R
I am a Certified Clinical Traumatologist and have worked with individuals diagnosed with anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use issues, and relationship conflict .
Accepting new clients. My practice welcomes individuals and families from different cultural backgrounds and offers a safe place to work together, share experiences, and reconnecting to relationships that are meaningful. I believe that everybody has goals and dreams that they want to accomplish in life. However, sometimes we encounter stressors which interfere with our daily activities and relationships. I will work with you, using different approaches, to enable you to cope with the stressors that are getting in the way. I believe in resolving conflict, pursuing happiness, and preserving relationships.
I am a Certified Clinical Traumatologist and have worked with individuals diagnosed with anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use issues, and relationship conflict .
Accepting new clients. My practice welcomes individuals and families from different cultural backgrounds and offers a safe place to work together, share experiences, and reconnecting to relationships that are meaningful. I believe that everybody has goals and dreams that they want to accomplish in life. However, sometimes we encounter stressors which interfere with our daily activities and relationships. I will work with you, using different approaches, to enable you to cope with the stressors that are getting in the way. I believe in resolving conflict, pursuing happiness, and preserving relationships.
(587) 802-0954 x109 View (587) 802-0954 x109
Photo of Rise Above Holistic Care, Registered Social Worker in Calgary, AB
Rise Above Holistic Care
Registered Social Worker, RSSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2E
Drawing from my personal experiences of overcoming trauma, addiction, grief, loss, single parenting, and recovery, I am passionate about supporting others on their unique paths.
Are you feeling lost or stuck in life? Struggling to cope with daily challenges or resorting to escapism? Questioning your self-worth or uncertain about your life path? Interested in integrating mindfulness practices and enhancing emotional awareness? At Rise Above Holistic Care, I encourage embracing emotions and learning to manage them without resorting to escapism. I am trauma & somatic informed, as well as CBT, DBT and Narrative Therapy informed. Services are available in Ontario and Alberta, Offering virtual and in person in Calgary, virtual sessions only in Ontario.
Drawing from my personal experiences of overcoming trauma, addiction, grief, loss, single parenting, and recovery, I am passionate about supporting others on their unique paths.
Are you feeling lost or stuck in life? Struggling to cope with daily challenges or resorting to escapism? Questioning your self-worth or uncertain about your life path? Interested in integrating mindfulness practices and enhancing emotional awareness? At Rise Above Holistic Care, I encourage embracing emotions and learning to manage them without resorting to escapism. I am trauma & somatic informed, as well as CBT, DBT and Narrative Therapy informed. Services are available in Ontario and Alberta, Offering virtual and in person in Calgary, virtual sessions only in Ontario.
(249) 507-0504 View (249) 507-0504
Photo of Cody Farrell, Registered Social Worker in Calgary, AB
Cody Farrell
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BA
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2R  (Online Only)
Specializing in addiction/substance use, LGBTQ+ identities, anxiety, depression and trauma, I would be happy to work with you.
I strive to work with individuals who are looking to better understand their personal and social identity. Emphasis in the counselling field is often given to learning new thought patterns and coping skills. While I do this in my practice and find it effective, I also discuss the concept of 'unlearning' and its importance for growth, allowing us to create a new foundation which is centred on self-awareness. When we unlearn these 'autopilot' ways of responding to situations, we can create a reality where we are actively in the driver’s seat to create the lifestyle and connections that we find authentic, meaningful and long-lasting.
Specializing in addiction/substance use, LGBTQ+ identities, anxiety, depression and trauma, I would be happy to work with you.
I strive to work with individuals who are looking to better understand their personal and social identity. Emphasis in the counselling field is often given to learning new thought patterns and coping skills. While I do this in my practice and find it effective, I also discuss the concept of 'unlearning' and its importance for growth, allowing us to create a new foundation which is centred on self-awareness. When we unlearn these 'autopilot' ways of responding to situations, we can create a reality where we are actively in the driver’s seat to create the lifestyle and connections that we find authentic, meaningful and long-lasting.
(587) 713-8239 View (587) 713-8239
Photo of Rebecca Mayer, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Rebecca Mayer
Psychologist, MACP
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3E
Are you feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you spend time numbing yourself through addictive patterns, or becoming easily overwhelmed and stressed? We are all hired wired for connection! The implementation of this is often harder than it sounds. l support people with connecting more authentically to themselves, people, and their life. I work with adults who experience a wide range of psychological and health related concerns. Some of these issues include addiction, body image, trauma, anxiety, life transitions, relationship concerns, chronic health conditions, disease management, and self-esteem.
Are you feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you spend time numbing yourself through addictive patterns, or becoming easily overwhelmed and stressed? We are all hired wired for connection! The implementation of this is often harder than it sounds. l support people with connecting more authentically to themselves, people, and their life. I work with adults who experience a wide range of psychological and health related concerns. Some of these issues include addiction, body image, trauma, anxiety, life transitions, relationship concerns, chronic health conditions, disease management, and self-esteem.
(825) 254-6904 View (825) 254-6904
Photo of Jennifer Berard & Associates, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Jennifer Berard & Associates
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2N
As owner, operator and lead clinician at Jennifer Berard & Associates, I believe that all people have an incredible capacity for change. I've had the honour to observe individuals, with seemingly insurmountable challenges, create meaningful and lasting change. My approach is client centered. I believe that you are the expert in your life and I aim to help you find your own strength, in your own time, at your own pace. I have extensive experience and training in the Addiction and Mental Health field, with specialized experience in the addictions, trauma, forensics and first responders.
As owner, operator and lead clinician at Jennifer Berard & Associates, I believe that all people have an incredible capacity for change. I've had the honour to observe individuals, with seemingly insurmountable challenges, create meaningful and lasting change. My approach is client centered. I believe that you are the expert in your life and I aim to help you find your own strength, in your own time, at your own pace. I have extensive experience and training in the Addiction and Mental Health field, with specialized experience in the addictions, trauma, forensics and first responders.
(587) 328-0120 View (587) 328-0120
Photo of Kristina Dargan, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Kristina Dargan
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3A
I have been working in the field for 8+ years and specialize in: anxiety, depression, addictions (substance use disorders), trauma, post-traumatic stress and self esteem.
Life is full of challenges; it is part of being human. Sometimes we need a little bit of extra support to navigate these challenges! My name is Kristina and I am a registered provisional psychologist practicing in Calgary, Alberta. Through a combination of lived experience and education, I am passionate about helping you to reach your goals and live a happy and fulfilling life. My role as your therapist is to empower you to make the changes you seek, discover your core value system, and develop meaningful and authentic connections and relationships in your life.
I have been working in the field for 8+ years and specialize in: anxiety, depression, addictions (substance use disorders), trauma, post-traumatic stress and self esteem.
Life is full of challenges; it is part of being human. Sometimes we need a little bit of extra support to navigate these challenges! My name is Kristina and I am a registered provisional psychologist practicing in Calgary, Alberta. Through a combination of lived experience and education, I am passionate about helping you to reach your goals and live a happy and fulfilling life. My role as your therapist is to empower you to make the changes you seek, discover your core value system, and develop meaningful and authentic connections and relationships in your life.
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Photo of Michelle Harder, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Michelle Harder
Psychologist, BACS, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2G
I am a trauma informed therapist. I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy. My focus and area of practice has been working with addiction and trauma. I also have my own lived experience with addiction and trauma. I believe in showing up authentic, genuine, and with empathy. I am a mom, wife, dog mom, and a psychologist. I also believe that people are put in our path for a reason and feel very blessed with gratitude for everyone that crosses my path. Life is so beautiful and full of miracles, and yet it is also full of pain and challenges. I hope to offer some validation, relief and to hold some space for you.
I am a trauma informed therapist. I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy. My focus and area of practice has been working with addiction and trauma. I also have my own lived experience with addiction and trauma. I believe in showing up authentic, genuine, and with empathy. I am a mom, wife, dog mom, and a psychologist. I also believe that people are put in our path for a reason and feel very blessed with gratitude for everyone that crosses my path. Life is so beautiful and full of miracles, and yet it is also full of pain and challenges. I hope to offer some validation, relief and to hold some space for you.
(587) 840-8211 x6 View (587) 840-8211 x6
Photo of Dee Miner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Dee Miner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2H
In creating a safe space we can then look at targeted treatments and approaches to maladaptive coping, addiction, illness adjustment etc.
As a clinical social worker I have had the privilege of walking beside acutely ill and often terminal patients (and families). Many times those patients struggle with severe addiction and trauma, and want to find a different way to live. Even if addiction or trauma are not the primary issues, the pain. suffering and fear that accompanies a life limiting illness, mood disturbance, relationship conflict or loss, can be extraordinary. I believe people are the experts of their own lived experience. My job is to provide compassion, insight and direction (when required) for that pain, with the intention of creating a healing path forward.
In creating a safe space we can then look at targeted treatments and approaches to maladaptive coping, addiction, illness adjustment etc.
As a clinical social worker I have had the privilege of walking beside acutely ill and often terminal patients (and families). Many times those patients struggle with severe addiction and trauma, and want to find a different way to live. Even if addiction or trauma are not the primary issues, the pain. suffering and fear that accompanies a life limiting illness, mood disturbance, relationship conflict or loss, can be extraordinary. I believe people are the experts of their own lived experience. My job is to provide compassion, insight and direction (when required) for that pain, with the intention of creating a healing path forward.
(587) 840-4183 View (587) 840-4183
Photo of Rebecca Teebay-Webb & Associates, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Rebecca Teebay-Webb & Associates
Psychologist, RPsych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2X
We are a team that is client-centred and dedicated to providing genuine and compassionate counselling that is tailored to our clients’ goals. We support clients experiencing a variety of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, grief, loss, PTSD, CPTSD, addictions, substance abuse, and recovery from overwhelming, challenging or traumatic events holding them back. We appreciate that negative experiences can be held in the body and may present psychologically, physically, emotionally, cognitively, through nervous system dysregulation, and ongoing patterns, behaviour and decisions that they may wish to change.
We are a team that is client-centred and dedicated to providing genuine and compassionate counselling that is tailored to our clients’ goals. We support clients experiencing a variety of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, grief, loss, PTSD, CPTSD, addictions, substance abuse, and recovery from overwhelming, challenging or traumatic events holding them back. We appreciate that negative experiences can be held in the body and may present psychologically, physically, emotionally, cognitively, through nervous system dysregulation, and ongoing patterns, behaviour and decisions that they may wish to change.
(403) 998-1745 View (403) 998-1745
Photo of Shervin Vakili, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Shervin Vakili
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2R
I help individual clients with ADHD, anxiety, and addiction concerns regain control over their lives. I also offer relationship help for individuals and couples. There is a capable and special person inside each and every one of us; don't let your symptoms stop you from being that person. My therapeutic orientations include Cognitive Behavioural, Psychodynamic, Existential, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and family therapy approaches as appropriate.
I help individual clients with ADHD, anxiety, and addiction concerns regain control over their lives. I also offer relationship help for individuals and couples. There is a capable and special person inside each and every one of us; don't let your symptoms stop you from being that person. My therapeutic orientations include Cognitive Behavioural, Psychodynamic, Existential, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and family therapy approaches as appropriate.
(888) 789-3067 View (888) 789-3067
Photo of Mike Davies Counselling Services, Registered Social Worker in Calgary, AB
Mike Davies Counselling Services
Registered Social Worker, RSW, BSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2H
I have a clinical Master's degree and specialize in addiction, stress, anger, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, suicidal thoughts, and trauma.
I have years of education and work experience, but more importantly, I have years of my own life experience. I'm a person in long term recovery from my own addiction and mental health concerns. My clients appreciate the many perspectives I can offer. The hardest part is asking for help, I'm here when you're ready to talk.
I have a clinical Master's degree and specialize in addiction, stress, anger, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, suicidal thoughts, and trauma.
I have years of education and work experience, but more importantly, I have years of my own life experience. I'm a person in long term recovery from my own addiction and mental health concerns. My clients appreciate the many perspectives I can offer. The hardest part is asking for help, I'm here when you're ready to talk.
(587) 329-5376 View (587) 329-5376
Photo of Dominika O’Grady, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Dominika O’Grady
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2G
I have over 15 years of experience working with individuals and groups in educational, community, and healthcare settings presenting with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use and/or addictive behaviours, relationship concerns, anger, grief and loss, self-care, self-esteem, and other mental health concerns.
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS * “ I can’t seem to shut my brain off”, “Why do I feel so anxious all the time?”, “ I actually don’t feel anything, I’m numb”. If any of these statements resonate with you and you want to explore them further I might be of help! I am a people person that truly believes in the power of human connection and therefore place a great importance on the right fit between a therapist and a client. My work is very much based on a collaborative approach because “You” know “You” the best. It’s important to me that you will feel comfortable and safe to explore and address any issues you are struggling with.
I have over 15 years of experience working with individuals and groups in educational, community, and healthcare settings presenting with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use and/or addictive behaviours, relationship concerns, anger, grief and loss, self-care, self-esteem, and other mental health concerns.
*ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS * “ I can’t seem to shut my brain off”, “Why do I feel so anxious all the time?”, “ I actually don’t feel anything, I’m numb”. If any of these statements resonate with you and you want to explore them further I might be of help! I am a people person that truly believes in the power of human connection and therefore place a great importance on the right fit between a therapist and a client. My work is very much based on a collaborative approach because “You” know “You” the best. It’s important to me that you will feel comfortable and safe to explore and address any issues you are struggling with.
(587) 742-0277 View (587) 742-0277
Photo of Kelly Waters-Radcliffe, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Kelly Waters-Radcliffe
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3C
Therapy, at its most basic, is 'talking.' That’s why you’re reading through these profiles. You're hoping to figure out a good person to talk to about things that matter. If it helps, here is what experience has taught me: We are each unique. Our problems are equally unique. But all problems seem to grow from one common root: disconnection. Disconnection can be felt in many ways: fear, sadness, emptiness, pain, and anger. Troubled feelings such as these often lead to troubled responses, including but not limited to: avoidance, procrastination, addiction, disordered eating, relationship conflict, violence, self-harm and suicide.
Therapy, at its most basic, is 'talking.' That’s why you’re reading through these profiles. You're hoping to figure out a good person to talk to about things that matter. If it helps, here is what experience has taught me: We are each unique. Our problems are equally unique. But all problems seem to grow from one common root: disconnection. Disconnection can be felt in many ways: fear, sadness, emptiness, pain, and anger. Troubled feelings such as these often lead to troubled responses, including but not limited to: avoidance, procrastination, addiction, disordered eating, relationship conflict, violence, self-harm and suicide.
(587) 801-3583 View (587) 801-3583
Photo of Shawn Canning, Registered Social Worker in Calgary, AB
Shawn Canning
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2K
Are you struggling to break your bad habits and keep healthy relationships? Maybe you're repeating unhelpful behaviors no matter how hard you try to change. Are you dealing with the consequences of impulsive decisions, losing control, or substance use? Often, these actions are the ways you learned to cope with the stresses of life to protect yourself or overcome challenges during difficult periods. When these coping mechanisms show up in life and relationships, they frequently contribute to conflict and pain. I help individual and couples better understand themselves and make lasting change with solo or marriage counselling.
Are you struggling to break your bad habits and keep healthy relationships? Maybe you're repeating unhelpful behaviors no matter how hard you try to change. Are you dealing with the consequences of impulsive decisions, losing control, or substance use? Often, these actions are the ways you learned to cope with the stresses of life to protect yourself or overcome challenges during difficult periods. When these coping mechanisms show up in life and relationships, they frequently contribute to conflict and pain. I help individual and couples better understand themselves and make lasting change with solo or marriage counselling.
(587) 812-8416 View (587) 812-8416
Photo of Meyen Hertzsprung, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Meyen Hertzsprung
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2N
Welcome! Having been one of the first in Calgary to be certified in sex addiction therapy, the bulk of my practice consists of individuals and couples in various stages of sex and other addiction recovery. Do you need help in the struggle to remain sober? Would you benefit from guidance in the formulation and maintenance of an effective recovery plan? Do you need a compassionate listener as you make sense of the trauma of discovery? My goal is to promote awareness of your emotional life; to help you establish and negotiate appropriate boundaries; and to enhance trust in all your relationships.
Welcome! Having been one of the first in Calgary to be certified in sex addiction therapy, the bulk of my practice consists of individuals and couples in various stages of sex and other addiction recovery. Do you need help in the struggle to remain sober? Would you benefit from guidance in the formulation and maintenance of an effective recovery plan? Do you need a compassionate listener as you make sense of the trauma of discovery? My goal is to promote awareness of your emotional life; to help you establish and negotiate appropriate boundaries; and to enhance trust in all your relationships.
(587) 800-0176 View (587) 800-0176
Photo of Amy Jubb @ Risewell Psychology, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Amy Jubb @ Risewell Psychology
Psychologist, MA, RPsych, CPsych, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2N
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I'm Amy, a dedicated therapist with a passion for guiding individuals on their journey to recovery from substance use, supporting those seeking embodiment, and assisting healthcare workers struggling with burnout and compassion fatigue. With a Master's in Counseling from the Betty Ford Hazelden Graduate School in Minnesota, I've spent the last decade working in various settings, including inpatient and outpatient treatment centers, schools, and private practices.
Hello! I'm Amy, a dedicated therapist with a passion for guiding individuals on their journey to recovery from substance use, supporting those seeking embodiment, and assisting healthcare workers struggling with burnout and compassion fatigue. With a Master's in Counseling from the Betty Ford Hazelden Graduate School in Minnesota, I've spent the last decade working in various settings, including inpatient and outpatient treatment centers, schools, and private practices.
(587) 571-6811 View (587) 571-6811
Photo of Jena Iuliano, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Jena Iuliano
Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2W
I enjoy working with a variety of clients from teens to older adults on issues ranging from anxiety and depression, stress, trauma, addiction, life transitions and sexual identity.
I believe each person is the expert in their own life but sometimes along our journey the lens through which we see the world and ourselves becomes a bit muddied and this impacts the way we behave and react to new experiences. My role in your journey is to help you see clearly again through that lens so you can get back to living more true to your authentic self. I work primarily from an attachment lens and have a gentle, yet direct approach to therapy. I work best with clients who aren't afraid to bring a little humor into sessions when appropriate and safe to do so.
I enjoy working with a variety of clients from teens to older adults on issues ranging from anxiety and depression, stress, trauma, addiction, life transitions and sexual identity.
I believe each person is the expert in their own life but sometimes along our journey the lens through which we see the world and ourselves becomes a bit muddied and this impacts the way we behave and react to new experiences. My role in your journey is to help you see clearly again through that lens so you can get back to living more true to your authentic self. I work primarily from an attachment lens and have a gentle, yet direct approach to therapy. I work best with clients who aren't afraid to bring a little humor into sessions when appropriate and safe to do so.
(587) 327-9899 View (587) 327-9899

See more therapy options for Calgary

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.