Photo of Adrian James, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Adrian James
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6C
Some of my approaches will include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), couples counselling, addiction counseling, and trauma therapy.
If you are dealing with addictions or emotional challenges I look forward to working with you. One can often feel alone, feel that no one understands and fear being judged. I will support you by creating a safe space to work through the problem. Issues such as relationship conflicts, addictions, anger and stress can impede your daily functioning. My goal is to help you identify potential causes and find healthy ways to resolve issues and to guide you through those vulnerable moments.
Some of my approaches will include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), couples counselling, addiction counseling, and trauma therapy.
If you are dealing with addictions or emotional challenges I look forward to working with you. One can often feel alone, feel that no one understands and fear being judged. I will support you by creating a safe space to work through the problem. Issues such as relationship conflicts, addictions, anger and stress can impede your daily functioning. My goal is to help you identify potential causes and find healthy ways to resolve issues and to guide you through those vulnerable moments.
(587) 804-5454 View (587) 804-5454
Photo of Shirvington M. A. Hannays, Counsellor in Edmonton, AB
Shirvington M. A. Hannays
Counsellor, CCS-AC, CCTACP, CCAC
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5J
I work with clients challenged with repeat relapsing with Addictions, Substance Use Disorders, and other Mental Health related disorders or Maladaptive behaviours who have never done treatment before or have successfully done treatment several times but gave up after several repeated relapses and are being referred for treatment due to mild or moderate-to-severe Substance Use Disorder. I use personalized teletherapy treatments using CBT and REBT therapies along with my signature RElapseREScue brief interventions from the masterclasses “How to become motivated and committed to Change”, and "How to REScue YourSELF from a RElapse".
I work with clients challenged with repeat relapsing with Addictions, Substance Use Disorders, and other Mental Health related disorders or Maladaptive behaviours who have never done treatment before or have successfully done treatment several times but gave up after several repeated relapses and are being referred for treatment due to mild or moderate-to-severe Substance Use Disorder. I use personalized teletherapy treatments using CBT and REBT therapies along with my signature RElapseREScue brief interventions from the masterclasses “How to become motivated and committed to Change”, and "How to REScue YourSELF from a RElapse".
(587) 417-2659 View (587) 417-2659
Photo of Sheena Shilton - Psychotherapy For You Alberta, Counsellor in Edmonton, AB
Sheena Shilton - Psychotherapy For You Alberta
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5Y
My area of expertise are Addictions and Mental Health. With Addictions and Mental Health there are a variety of complex issues that can arise from these difficulties. I provide therapy to individuals, couples, families and groups. My approach is psycho-educational, using practice methods, and cognitive behavioural therapy to help change dysfunctional behaviour patterns that are interfering with daily life. As an Addictions and Mental Health Counsellor with The Royal Mental Health Care Centre for the 8 years, in the Substance Use and Concurrent Disorders Unit.
My area of expertise are Addictions and Mental Health. With Addictions and Mental Health there are a variety of complex issues that can arise from these difficulties. I provide therapy to individuals, couples, families and groups. My approach is psycho-educational, using practice methods, and cognitive behavioural therapy to help change dysfunctional behaviour patterns that are interfering with daily life. As an Addictions and Mental Health Counsellor with The Royal Mental Health Care Centre for the 8 years, in the Substance Use and Concurrent Disorders Unit.
(587) 854-3978 View (587) 854-3978
Photo of Lara Palset, Counsellor in Edmonton, AB
Lara Palset
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6B
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 Meghan McDonald, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Meghan McDonald
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5A
Welcome! Whatever road brought you to my profile, I'm glad you are here. Are you struggling with substance use or addictive behaviours? Are you feeling burnt out? Are you needing a safe, supportive, and calm place to talk about the challenges you are facing? I will support and help guide you to make lasting, positive and sustainable changes in your life. I take a kind and compassionate approach that gives you the space to feel truly seen and understood. Together, we can help you cultivate and advance your own strengths and capabilities, to move from existing to thriving.
Welcome! Whatever road brought you to my profile, I'm glad you are here. Are you struggling with substance use or addictive behaviours? Are you feeling burnt out? Are you needing a safe, supportive, and calm place to talk about the challenges you are facing? I will support and help guide you to make lasting, positive and sustainable changes in your life. I take a kind and compassionate approach that gives you the space to feel truly seen and understood. Together, we can help you cultivate and advance your own strengths and capabilities, to move from existing to thriving.
(825) 609-4939 View (825) 609-4939
Photo of Carissa Lyn Seitz, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Edmonton, AB
Carissa Lyn Seitz
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5A
Life - forever changing. How does one merge in with the change of time when they are stuck in the past with the stories that created such impact and varying degrees of trauma? How does one continue on trying to understand the experiences which led to behavioural addictions or substance use disorders? The battle to "be" and feel free and "okay" is so overwhelming they see no other option than to die - or feel such shame for thinking about it. What crisis has you gripped by the throat leaving you immobile or so dissociated you don't know where one self begins and the other ends?
Life - forever changing. How does one merge in with the change of time when they are stuck in the past with the stories that created such impact and varying degrees of trauma? How does one continue on trying to understand the experiences which led to behavioural addictions or substance use disorders? The battle to "be" and feel free and "okay" is so overwhelming they see no other option than to die - or feel such shame for thinking about it. What crisis has you gripped by the throat leaving you immobile or so dissociated you don't know where one self begins and the other ends?
(306) 992-0588 View (306) 992-0588
Photo of Samu Ndhlovu, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor in Edmonton, AB
Samu Ndhlovu
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, CCAC, CCTAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5A  (Online Only)
I specialize in addictions and I work with adult individuals or couples who are dealing with substance use and other addictive behaviours.
Hello! My name is Samu Ndhlovu. I am a Canadian Certified Addictions Counsellor (C.C.A.C). I strive to create a strong, client centred connection, based on openness, honesty and respect. My counselling style is collaborative, and focuses on increasing self-awareness, honouring one's own insights, and finding ways to remove obstacles in areas where they feel stuck or need growth. I structure my counselling style by incorporating elements of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Family Systems and Trauma Informed Care.
I specialize in addictions and I work with adult individuals or couples who are dealing with substance use and other addictive behaviours.
Hello! My name is Samu Ndhlovu. I am a Canadian Certified Addictions Counsellor (C.C.A.C). I strive to create a strong, client centred connection, based on openness, honesty and respect. My counselling style is collaborative, and focuses on increasing self-awareness, honouring one's own insights, and finding ways to remove obstacles in areas where they feel stuck or need growth. I structure my counselling style by incorporating elements of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Family Systems and Trauma Informed Care.
(249) 802-8122 View (249) 802-8122
Photo of Christine Nelson-Voigt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonton, AB
Christine Nelson-Voigt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5N
As a certified sex addiction therapist, I am empathic to the complex and painful challenges for the addict and their partner, who require treatment without fear of shame or judgment.
I believe we are all coping as best we can, and there are times in our lives when we can use extra support and guidance in seeking clarity and direction. My goal and wish for my clients is that out of pain and despair, comes peace, freedom, and ultimately joy. I feel truly honored to hear people's stories and my desire and motivation to work collaboratively and respectfully with people at their own pace is genuine. With my help as your therapist I will provide a safe healing environment and help you develop a healthier and more rewarding approach to life.
As a certified sex addiction therapist, I am empathic to the complex and painful challenges for the addict and their partner, who require treatment without fear of shame or judgment.
I believe we are all coping as best we can, and there are times in our lives when we can use extra support and guidance in seeking clarity and direction. My goal and wish for my clients is that out of pain and despair, comes peace, freedom, and ultimately joy. I feel truly honored to hear people's stories and my desire and motivation to work collaboratively and respectfully with people at their own pace is genuine. With my help as your therapist I will provide a safe healing environment and help you develop a healthier and more rewarding approach to life.
(855) 798-6703 View (855) 798-6703
Photo of The Family Centre, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
The Family Centre
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5K
No matter what you’re going through, The Family Centre is here for you. Our mental health therapists are experienced in a broad range of issues. We can help you understand your situation better and figure out ways to move successfully through it. We are here to support you as you navigate depression, anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, including separation and divorce, grief and loss, parenting challenges and conflict, child and adolescent development and behaviour, domestic abuse prevention, trauma and change, alcohol or substance abuse, and more.
No matter what you’re going through, The Family Centre is here for you. Our mental health therapists are experienced in a broad range of issues. We can help you understand your situation better and figure out ways to move successfully through it. We are here to support you as you navigate depression, anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, including separation and divorce, grief and loss, parenting challenges and conflict, child and adolescent development and behaviour, domestic abuse prevention, trauma and change, alcohol or substance abuse, and more.
(825) 508-5126 View (825) 508-5126
Photo of Clare Acheson, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Clare Acheson
Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
I am a registered psychologist with a diverse range of counselling experience. My approach is gentle, yet effective. It is grounded in evidence based practices, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), eye-movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), and solution focused therapy (SFT). My clients have successfully addressed concerns including: trauma, anxiety, depression, abuse, grief, discrimination, gender dysphoria, low self-worth, self-harm, substance use, communication and relationship concerns.
I am a registered psychologist with a diverse range of counselling experience. My approach is gentle, yet effective. It is grounded in evidence based practices, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), eye-movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), and solution focused therapy (SFT). My clients have successfully addressed concerns including: trauma, anxiety, depression, abuse, grief, discrimination, gender dysphoria, low self-worth, self-harm, substance use, communication and relationship concerns.
(587) 507-8651 View (587) 507-8651
Photo of Janelle Schultz, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Janelle Schultz
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MACP
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5J
Do you ever feel like your life has not gone as planned and you're having a hard time finding meaning? Maybe you feel like you are not really yourself anymore or have stopped taking care of yourself. You want more out of your life but don't know how to get it. A lot of people struggle with anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship and career stresses, but don't know how to make lasting changes that will lead to a more fulfilling life.
Do you ever feel like your life has not gone as planned and you're having a hard time finding meaning? Maybe you feel like you are not really yourself anymore or have stopped taking care of yourself. You want more out of your life but don't know how to get it. A lot of people struggle with anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship and career stresses, but don't know how to make lasting changes that will lead to a more fulfilling life.
(825) 462-1571 View (825) 462-1571
Photo of Freda Doyle, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Freda Doyle
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5C
I work with individuals and families who have experienced trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and relationship challenges. I have a special interest in intergenerational trauma and supporting people who experience challenges finding the support that they need.
I work with individuals and families who have experienced trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and relationship challenges. I have a special interest in intergenerational trauma and supporting people who experience challenges finding the support that they need.
(825) 250-3794 View (825) 250-3794
Photo of Sadique Ahmed Pathan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonton, AB
Sadique Ahmed Pathan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6V
Many people who struggle with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and stress, feel embarrassed or stigmatized. Others who struggle with domestic violence, relationship issues, faith based struggles, addiction issues, suicidal ideations, and anger management issues feel alone and unsure of who they can speak to. The foundation of my counselling practice is being compassionate and non-judgmental. I provide a person-centred practice which is about the client defining their own goals. I assure my clients they are in a safe place, confidentiality upheld, validated, and their life story and experiences honoured.
Many people who struggle with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and stress, feel embarrassed or stigmatized. Others who struggle with domestic violence, relationship issues, faith based struggles, addiction issues, suicidal ideations, and anger management issues feel alone and unsure of who they can speak to. The foundation of my counselling practice is being compassionate and non-judgmental. I provide a person-centred practice which is about the client defining their own goals. I assure my clients they are in a safe place, confidentiality upheld, validated, and their life story and experiences honoured.
(825) 250-3352 View (825) 250-3352
Photo of Aliya Manji, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Aliya Manji
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6H
My clinical work expands to support individuals, couples, and families who have struggled with trauma, betrayal, addiction issues, grief and loss, relationship issues, workplace stress, and other life transitions.
I am a Registered Psychologist with 10+ years of experience. I work with individual adults and couples who have feelings of anxiety, depression, and overwhelm. I have worked with women fleeing domestic violence, children who have experienced trauma, and couples who have gone through infidelity and other life changes.
My clinical work expands to support individuals, couples, and families who have struggled with trauma, betrayal, addiction issues, grief and loss, relationship issues, workplace stress, and other life transitions.
I am a Registered Psychologist with 10+ years of experience. I work with individual adults and couples who have feelings of anxiety, depression, and overwhelm. I have worked with women fleeing domestic violence, children who have experienced trauma, and couples who have gone through infidelity and other life changes.
(587) 806-5831 View (587) 806-5831
Photo of Dr. G Peggy McFall, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Dr. G Peggy McFall
Registered Provisional Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
Occasionally, we all experience feelings of unhappiness, restlessness, or "stuckness". Sometimes, we find ourselves struggling with a more pressing issue, such as depression, anxiety, uncomfortable expressions of anger, difficulty expressing yourself, life transitions, dealing with trauma, or you may find yourself struggling with addiction. Regardless of whether you are looking to learn how to budget or for a therapist who can help you manage symptoms of past or present trauma; I am here to help.
Occasionally, we all experience feelings of unhappiness, restlessness, or "stuckness". Sometimes, we find ourselves struggling with a more pressing issue, such as depression, anxiety, uncomfortable expressions of anger, difficulty expressing yourself, life transitions, dealing with trauma, or you may find yourself struggling with addiction. Regardless of whether you are looking to learn how to budget or for a therapist who can help you manage symptoms of past or present trauma; I am here to help.
(587) 741-2673 View (587) 741-2673
Photo of Sandra M Gosling, Registered Social Worker in Edmonton, AB
Sandra M Gosling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5G  (Online Only)
I hold an MSW specializing in Indigenous Trauma and Resiliency from the University of Toronto, with additional training and experience in mental health, substance use, trauma, grief, and loss.
As a mixed European-Indigneous therapist, I aim to empower individuals to achieve their envisioned path toward a happy, healthy, loving, and balanced life. Through a mix of healing work and wellness promotion, I will walk with you down the path, and at the speed, you wish to go. I believe in the use of mindfulness, humour, and unconditional kindness as key supplies for a healing journey together. My practice is grounded in trauma-informed, culturally responsive, anti-racist, harm reduction, and unconditional kindness. I strive to be inclusive of all folks, with specific training and lived experience working with Indigenous peoples.
I hold an MSW specializing in Indigenous Trauma and Resiliency from the University of Toronto, with additional training and experience in mental health, substance use, trauma, grief, and loss.
As a mixed European-Indigneous therapist, I aim to empower individuals to achieve their envisioned path toward a happy, healthy, loving, and balanced life. Through a mix of healing work and wellness promotion, I will walk with you down the path, and at the speed, you wish to go. I believe in the use of mindfulness, humour, and unconditional kindness as key supplies for a healing journey together. My practice is grounded in trauma-informed, culturally responsive, anti-racist, harm reduction, and unconditional kindness. I strive to be inclusive of all folks, with specific training and lived experience working with Indigenous peoples.
(587) 804-2502 View (587) 804-2502
Photo of Chaz Wiebe Light's Hope Counselling Wellness, Counsellor in Edmonton, AB
Chaz Wiebe Light's Hope Counselling Wellness
Counsellor, MPCC, RPC, RTC, CCTP, MTC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6C
With individuals we address: depression, anxiety, OCD, anger, postpartum depression, performance orientation, boundaries, shame-based & defensive personality disorders, physical/verbal/sexual abuse, grief, miscarriage & infertility, eating disorders & disordered eating, addiction, & divorce recovery.
I look forward to meeting with you & exploring the challenges you face today along with the supports & strengths you have developed. My aim is to create a hope-filled therapeutic environment; one of understanding & acceptance. In our work together we will explore the "enduring vulnerabilities" (unfinished business) that may be affecting your personal well-being & your emotional/relational health. I believe in nourishing the whole person: Body-Soul-Spirit (Mind-Will-Emotions) & I would be honored to work with you on your journey towards freedom. Chaz Wiebe, MPCC, RPC, Counselling Therapist, Master Practitioner in Clinical Counselling, & Registered Professional Counsellor
With individuals we address: depression, anxiety, OCD, anger, postpartum depression, performance orientation, boundaries, shame-based & defensive personality disorders, physical/verbal/sexual abuse, grief, miscarriage & infertility, eating disorders & disordered eating, addiction, & divorce recovery.
I look forward to meeting with you & exploring the challenges you face today along with the supports & strengths you have developed. My aim is to create a hope-filled therapeutic environment; one of understanding & acceptance. In our work together we will explore the "enduring vulnerabilities" (unfinished business) that may be affecting your personal well-being & your emotional/relational health. I believe in nourishing the whole person: Body-Soul-Spirit (Mind-Will-Emotions) & I would be honored to work with you on your journey towards freedom. Chaz Wiebe, MPCC, RPC, Counselling Therapist, Master Practitioner in Clinical Counselling, & Registered Professional Counsellor
(587) 200-9705 View (587) 200-9705
Photo of Northern Winds Therapy and Wholistic Healing, Registered Social Worker in Edmonton, AB
Northern Winds Therapy and Wholistic Healing
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5A
We work daily with anxiety and depression but we also have extensive experience in addiction, trauma, identity/adoption issues, abandonment, and many other unfortunate life experiences.
If your struggling with unresolved issues, experiencing relationship problems, struggling with stress, anxiety or maybe you just don't know why you feel the way you do. We help you look at you, your personal situations and your environment in order to help you make sense of what's going on. At Northern Winds, our objective is to help you move on with your life and let go of the past. We help you look at your situations and environment with a different perspective, which in turn can help you make different choices. Service within 24 hours of initial contact, fair competitive rates with quality service and expertise.
We work daily with anxiety and depression but we also have extensive experience in addiction, trauma, identity/adoption issues, abandonment, and many other unfortunate life experiences.
If your struggling with unresolved issues, experiencing relationship problems, struggling with stress, anxiety or maybe you just don't know why you feel the way you do. We help you look at you, your personal situations and your environment in order to help you make sense of what's going on. At Northern Winds, our objective is to help you move on with your life and let go of the past. We help you look at your situations and environment with a different perspective, which in turn can help you make different choices. Service within 24 hours of initial contact, fair competitive rates with quality service and expertise.
(587) 209-8835 View (587) 209-8835
Photo of Madison Cruickshank, Registered Psychotherapist in Edmonton, AB
Madison Cruickshank
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5A  (Online Only)
I maintain registration as a psychotherapist with the CRPO and hold a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, as well as a specialization in addiction studies.
I trust that every person is the expert of their own life and experiences. I hold the belief that everyone has what they need, within themselves, to heal, and I enjoy walking alongside to support folks in accessing these strengths and resources. I strive to establish trusting and collaborative relationships that create a safe space for exploration and growth. I work from a person-centered and trauma-informed lens, while integrating a variety of modalities including Internal Family Systems, ACT, DBT, somatic and mindfulness-based interventions.
I maintain registration as a psychotherapist with the CRPO and hold a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, as well as a specialization in addiction studies.
I trust that every person is the expert of their own life and experiences. I hold the belief that everyone has what they need, within themselves, to heal, and I enjoy walking alongside to support folks in accessing these strengths and resources. I strive to establish trusting and collaborative relationships that create a safe space for exploration and growth. I work from a person-centered and trauma-informed lens, while integrating a variety of modalities including Internal Family Systems, ACT, DBT, somatic and mindfulness-based interventions.
(587) 871-8418 View (587) 871-8418
Photo of Mo Bamuwagun - Layers Mental Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonton, AB
Mo Bamuwagun - Layers Mental Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, MMP, CCTPII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5A  (Online Only)
Why: I believe life is a journey, the people and experiences we engage with along the way shape who we are and who we become. I have had intimate encounters with addiction and mental health and the people who walked with me through those journeys were, are still important to me. What ever your reason for reaching out, whether it is a relationship concern, life goals, loss/grief or adjusting to life stressors. Maybe it’s a concern that impacts your mood, personality, and keeps you in a triggered anxious and depressive place, Lets journey together.
Why: I believe life is a journey, the people and experiences we engage with along the way shape who we are and who we become. I have had intimate encounters with addiction and mental health and the people who walked with me through those journeys were, are still important to me. What ever your reason for reaching out, whether it is a relationship concern, life goals, loss/grief or adjusting to life stressors. Maybe it’s a concern that impacts your mood, personality, and keeps you in a triggered anxious and depressive place, Lets journey together.
(825) 809-5415 View (825) 809-5415

See more therapy options for Edmonton


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.