Photo of Ginelle Foskin, Registered Psychotherapist in Brampton, ON
Ginelle Foskin
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6T
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR IN-PERSON (SAUGA/VAUGHAN) AND PHONE/VIDEO*** Let’s be honest, life is hard, and in many ways, we juggle more today than we ever have! Life’s challenges can leave us feeling stressed, confused, demotivated, even helpless and hopeless. It can be a tough road to travel, but you don't have to walk it alone. As a therapist, I don’t think anyone should feel that way. I am committed to supporting my clients with guidance, care, and connected to the proper resources. With experience working with youth, students, adults, and parents, I enjoy collaborating with clients on a variety of challenges.
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR IN-PERSON (SAUGA/VAUGHAN) AND PHONE/VIDEO*** Let’s be honest, life is hard, and in many ways, we juggle more today than we ever have! Life’s challenges can leave us feeling stressed, confused, demotivated, even helpless and hopeless. It can be a tough road to travel, but you don't have to walk it alone. As a therapist, I don’t think anyone should feel that way. I am committed to supporting my clients with guidance, care, and connected to the proper resources. With experience working with youth, students, adults, and parents, I enjoy collaborating with clients on a variety of challenges.
(289) 217-9898 View (289) 217-9898
Photo of Debra Barran, Registered Psychotherapist in Brampton, ON
Debra Barran
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6Y
****NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS IN VAUGHAN/MISSISSAUGA AND PHONE/VIDEO**** "I am not what has happened to me; I am what I choose to become" -Carl Jung. If you are stuck in the “I wish things had been different” mode,” and feel like there is little hope for change in your life; therapy provides an avenue to be heard, to grieve, to discover acceptance, and create a new future right now, as we work together to formulate small but consistent steps in the present. I believe that each person is unique and brings individualized strengths and skills to forge new paths in their lives and in their relationships. Together, we can reach your goals.
****NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS IN VAUGHAN/MISSISSAUGA AND PHONE/VIDEO**** "I am not what has happened to me; I am what I choose to become" -Carl Jung. If you are stuck in the “I wish things had been different” mode,” and feel like there is little hope for change in your life; therapy provides an avenue to be heard, to grieve, to discover acceptance, and create a new future right now, as we work together to formulate small but consistent steps in the present. I believe that each person is unique and brings individualized strengths and skills to forge new paths in their lives and in their relationships. Together, we can reach your goals.
(289) 512-2469 View (289) 512-2469
Photo of Jenny Kapichen, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Brampton, ON
Jenny Kapichen
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
Brampton, ON L6W
My work with clients is informed by my life experience as a musician, small business owner, immigrant and parent. My training in Gestalt therapy guides me as I work collaboratively with you to support and embrace the challenges of life transitions, relationships, work related stress, social anxiety, existential crisis or traumatic experiences.
My work with clients is informed by my life experience as a musician, small business owner, immigrant and parent. My training in Gestalt therapy guides me as I work collaboratively with you to support and embrace the challenges of life transitions, relationships, work related stress, social anxiety, existential crisis or traumatic experiences.
(437) 747-8272 View (437) 747-8272
Photo of Shoshana Kulik, Registered Social Worker in Brampton, ON
Shoshana Kulik
Registered Social Worker, MSW , RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6T
People just like you come to me struggling with relationships - you are trying to get your message across but its just not working, whatever you try you just keep getting caught in the same argument. Others come to me because depression, anxiety and stress is making it hard for them to cope. Whatever the challenge, my clients want a safe place to share their feelings - a judgement free zone, and new ways to cope with their struggles. I know being vulnerable is uncomfortable so I will give you the time you need to develop trust and feel comfortable with the therapy process.
People just like you come to me struggling with relationships - you are trying to get your message across but its just not working, whatever you try you just keep getting caught in the same argument. Others come to me because depression, anxiety and stress is making it hard for them to cope. Whatever the challenge, my clients want a safe place to share their feelings - a judgement free zone, and new ways to cope with their struggles. I know being vulnerable is uncomfortable so I will give you the time you need to develop trust and feel comfortable with the therapy process.
(647) 697-5927 View (647) 697-5927

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jora Shacter, Registered Social Worker in Brampton, ON
Jora Shacter
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5V  (Online Only)
Welcome! I work with career-minded people who struggle with ADHD, Anxiety, Trauma and Substance Use. I work with people who are in high-pressure or creative fields who feel they can be doing better, but struggle to get there on their own. I strive to create a warm, collaborative space where you can explore concerns and learn tools to cope. I understand everyone is at a different place in their journey, and I’ll meet you where you are at. I feel fortunate to have worked in many settings that uplift 2SLGBTQ+ and BIPOC populations.
Welcome! I work with career-minded people who struggle with ADHD, Anxiety, Trauma and Substance Use. I work with people who are in high-pressure or creative fields who feel they can be doing better, but struggle to get there on their own. I strive to create a warm, collaborative space where you can explore concerns and learn tools to cope. I understand everyone is at a different place in their journey, and I’ll meet you where you are at. I feel fortunate to have worked in many settings that uplift 2SLGBTQ+ and BIPOC populations.
(647) 250-9902 View (647) 250-9902
Photo of NKS Therapy, Counsellor in Brampton, ON
NKS Therapy
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4W
All of our practitioners are licensed, highly trained mental health professionals with expertise in Depression, Anxiety, Relationship/Dating Issues, Career Issues, Marriage/Divorce, Parenting Issues, Anger, Stress, Substance Abuse, and more.
Voted Top 5 in Toronto for Best Psychotherapists in 2021, NKS Therapy is a team of psychotherapists, marriage/family therapists, counsellors and life coaches in Toronto, Etobicoke, Mississauga, and Oakville who specialize in mental health support for adults, couples, teenagers, and families. With multiple experts on the NKS Therapy team, we will help you achieve your goals through a deeper understanding of yourself, and help you make conscious choices today. We offer sessions virtually & in-person. Start living a better life today with a FREE 15-minute therapy consultation! A Happier, Healthier, Better Version of Yourself awaits.
All of our practitioners are licensed, highly trained mental health professionals with expertise in Depression, Anxiety, Relationship/Dating Issues, Career Issues, Marriage/Divorce, Parenting Issues, Anger, Stress, Substance Abuse, and more.
Voted Top 5 in Toronto for Best Psychotherapists in 2021, NKS Therapy is a team of psychotherapists, marriage/family therapists, counsellors and life coaches in Toronto, Etobicoke, Mississauga, and Oakville who specialize in mental health support for adults, couples, teenagers, and families. With multiple experts on the NKS Therapy team, we will help you achieve your goals through a deeper understanding of yourself, and help you make conscious choices today. We offer sessions virtually & in-person. Start living a better life today with a FREE 15-minute therapy consultation! A Happier, Healthier, Better Version of Yourself awaits.
(289) 206-7074 View (289) 206-7074
Photo of Samir Durrani, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Brampton, ON
Samir Durrani
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
Reaching out for support can be difficult—I commend you for the courage to see what therapy can offer! As a person of colour and member of the LGBTQ+ communities, I have lived experience and special insight into what it’s like to navigate the unique challenges that come with intersectionality. I have a background in working with sexual health, resilience, wellbeing and challenges that uniquely affect intersecting persons of colour, gender and sexuality. I’m grateful to have supported many folx who went through a difficult time in their life, dealt with a mental health concern, or wanted to explore more about themselves.
Reaching out for support can be difficult—I commend you for the courage to see what therapy can offer! As a person of colour and member of the LGBTQ+ communities, I have lived experience and special insight into what it’s like to navigate the unique challenges that come with intersectionality. I have a background in working with sexual health, resilience, wellbeing and challenges that uniquely affect intersecting persons of colour, gender and sexuality. I’m grateful to have supported many folx who went through a difficult time in their life, dealt with a mental health concern, or wanted to explore more about themselves.
(289) 273-7908 View (289) 273-7908
Photo of Ainur Alipkaliyeva, Registered Psychotherapist in Brampton, ON
Ainur Alipkaliyeva
Registered Psychotherapist, MD, RP
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z  (Online Only)
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO**** People enter my office for a variety of reasons. Sometimes they find it difficult to make a decision or feel that they cannot get out of a vicious circle of problems, struggle to adapt to new conditions or don’t feel safe, and sometimes it is simply difficult for them to live from day to day due to mental health or physical concerns. Sometimes they want to help their loved ones and don't know how. They often want to feel free from feelings of hopelessness and helplessness, overcome the struggles and move forward.
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO**** People enter my office for a variety of reasons. Sometimes they find it difficult to make a decision or feel that they cannot get out of a vicious circle of problems, struggle to adapt to new conditions or don’t feel safe, and sometimes it is simply difficult for them to live from day to day due to mental health or physical concerns. Sometimes they want to help their loved ones and don't know how. They often want to feel free from feelings of hopelessness and helplessness, overcome the struggles and move forward.
(289) 206-9122 View (289) 206-9122
Photo of Julia Bruto, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Brampton, ON
Julia Bruto
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
My goal is to support and guide you back to wellness no matter the trials and tribulations that life presents. I have a keen interest in supporting anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma. Above all, I take pride in building genuine therapeutic relationships with my clients while helping them become the best versions of themselves. Having started my own therapeutic journey as a client myself, I can more deeply appreciate the importance of this client-therapist relationship. The therapeutic journey is not always easy, but I believe that we are stronger together.
My goal is to support and guide you back to wellness no matter the trials and tribulations that life presents. I have a keen interest in supporting anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma. Above all, I take pride in building genuine therapeutic relationships with my clients while helping them become the best versions of themselves. Having started my own therapeutic journey as a client myself, I can more deeply appreciate the importance of this client-therapist relationship. The therapeutic journey is not always easy, but I believe that we are stronger together.
(289) 813-7592 View (289) 813-7592
Photo of Emily Galloway, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Brampton, ON
Emily Galloway
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
In order to work effectively on something, we must know its root and nature. I believe that half the battle is truly understanding why our struggles are occurring in the first place. Once we know the root of the concern and the thoughts, feelings, experiences, and ideas that reinforce its existence, we can then begin to dismantle its power—brick by brick. I believe in holding space for people to tell their stories and explore parts of themselves they may have never before felt safe to share with others. It is through this brave process of standing face-to-face with every part of who we are that we can decide who we would like to be.
In order to work effectively on something, we must know its root and nature. I believe that half the battle is truly understanding why our struggles are occurring in the first place. Once we know the root of the concern and the thoughts, feelings, experiences, and ideas that reinforce its existence, we can then begin to dismantle its power—brick by brick. I believe in holding space for people to tell their stories and explore parts of themselves they may have never before felt safe to share with others. It is through this brave process of standing face-to-face with every part of who we are that we can decide who we would like to be.
(289) 301-9627 View (289) 301-9627
Photo of Building Bridges Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Brampton, ON
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(289) 207-6240 View (289) 207-6240
Photo of Lorna Anderson, Registered Psychotherapist in Brampton, ON
Lorna Anderson
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z  (Online Only)
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** It’s a privilege and honour to be doing this work, and to walk alongside clients on their respective healing journeys. I believe that everyone is the expert of their own lives and life experiences. By working collaboratively and through meaning-making, I aim to support clients in connecting with their needs, dreams, hopes, as well as to the answers I believe each person has inside them. My approach is trauma-informed, non-directive, strength-based, and client-centered. Healing, the discovery of possibilities, one’s resilience, and one's gifts can all be part of the therapy process.
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** It’s a privilege and honour to be doing this work, and to walk alongside clients on their respective healing journeys. I believe that everyone is the expert of their own lives and life experiences. By working collaboratively and through meaning-making, I aim to support clients in connecting with their needs, dreams, hopes, as well as to the answers I believe each person has inside them. My approach is trauma-informed, non-directive, strength-based, and client-centered. Healing, the discovery of possibilities, one’s resilience, and one's gifts can all be part of the therapy process.
(289) 272-7293 View (289) 272-7293
Photo of Andrew Youssef (Phd Candidate), Pastoral Counsellor in Brampton, ON
Andrew Youssef (Phd Candidate)
Pastoral Counsellor, MTS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
**See our website for other therapists accepting new clients** I am mental health therapist as well as a multi-faith spiritual and religious care provider (also known as a chaplain). My strength is working with anyone's faith and spirituality to help them with their mental health and spiritual journey. I work with all faiths and religious. In my practice, I see each client as a complex and unique person with stories, worldviews, and challenges. My goal is to aid you in accessing your inner resources such as the experiences you cultivate from your stories and the beliefs that find root in your worldviews to cope with challenges.
**See our website for other therapists accepting new clients** I am mental health therapist as well as a multi-faith spiritual and religious care provider (also known as a chaplain). My strength is working with anyone's faith and spirituality to help them with their mental health and spiritual journey. I work with all faiths and religious. In my practice, I see each client as a complex and unique person with stories, worldviews, and challenges. My goal is to aid you in accessing your inner resources such as the experiences you cultivate from your stories and the beliefs that find root in your worldviews to cope with challenges.
(289) 207-6729 View (289) 207-6729
Photo of Daniel Elias, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Brampton, ON
Daniel Elias
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
You have tremendous power. The power to define your world, your relationships, your life. The power to be your true self. Yet, life can bring challenges that make us feel powerless. Passion can turn into doubt, fear, and anger. Love and joy can become pain and emptiness. For many of us, no single event alone changes us, but at some point, we find ourselves lost. I believe in the power of hope. I believe you can rediscover your strength, purpose, and sense of control. You can reclaim yourself—your courage, confidence, clarity, creativity, and compassion. I have hope that you can be who you want to be, no matter what comes your way.
You have tremendous power. The power to define your world, your relationships, your life. The power to be your true self. Yet, life can bring challenges that make us feel powerless. Passion can turn into doubt, fear, and anger. Love and joy can become pain and emptiness. For many of us, no single event alone changes us, but at some point, we find ourselves lost. I believe in the power of hope. I believe you can rediscover your strength, purpose, and sense of control. You can reclaim yourself—your courage, confidence, clarity, creativity, and compassion. I have hope that you can be who you want to be, no matter what comes your way.
(437) 524-0399 View (437) 524-0399
Photo of Casper Watras, Registered Psychotherapist in Brampton, ON
Casper Watras
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, BSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4T  (Online Only)
I work with motivated individuals who are looking to work towards better understanding, dealing with, and changing their lives. Clients of mine often have behaviours, thoughts, feelings, or emotions that are dysfunctional or cause them discomfort, such as feeling anxious, depressed, frustrated, reactive, or scattered. Many of my clients have difficulty with behaviours they feel they have no control over, such as habits or addictions, aversions, or getting easily frustrated or angry. I help my clients understand why these issues occur and help them create tools and protocols such that they can create the changes they want.
I work with motivated individuals who are looking to work towards better understanding, dealing with, and changing their lives. Clients of mine often have behaviours, thoughts, feelings, or emotions that are dysfunctional or cause them discomfort, such as feeling anxious, depressed, frustrated, reactive, or scattered. Many of my clients have difficulty with behaviours they feel they have no control over, such as habits or addictions, aversions, or getting easily frustrated or angry. I help my clients understand why these issues occur and help them create tools and protocols such that they can create the changes they want.
(343) 500-6467 View (343) 500-6467
Photo of Michael Franceschetti, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Brampton, ON
Michael Franceschetti
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” - Carl Rogers I believe that the first step in moving towards the life you want is to accept yourself and your position as they are. This is not a request to settle, but rather, an invitation to look at the cards you hold. Only after accepting how things are can your next steps be determined. I can provide the space for you to express how difficult things are, while the healing relationship we build together will serve as the vehicle driving change. Seeking support is not easy, and you are stronger than you think by simply taking this first step.
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” - Carl Rogers I believe that the first step in moving towards the life you want is to accept yourself and your position as they are. This is not a request to settle, but rather, an invitation to look at the cards you hold. Only after accepting how things are can your next steps be determined. I can provide the space for you to express how difficult things are, while the healing relationship we build together will serve as the vehicle driving change. Seeking support is not easy, and you are stronger than you think by simply taking this first step.
(437) 747-0981 View (437) 747-0981
Photo of Jasmine Spurrell, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Brampton, ON
Jasmine Spurrell
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
Finding the right therapist can be a daunting and intimidating process. This is why I appreciate the strength and courage that it takes to reach out for help. I also admire the ambition and belief that positive change is possible. Therefore, I would be so honoured to support you in identifying your needs, goals, and taking these next steps with you. My goal is to build and maintain a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship with you, so you can feel empowered and confident, in yourself and in your decision making. I provide a comfortable and judgement-free space for you to be able to express yourself and grow.
Finding the right therapist can be a daunting and intimidating process. This is why I appreciate the strength and courage that it takes to reach out for help. I also admire the ambition and belief that positive change is possible. Therefore, I would be so honoured to support you in identifying your needs, goals, and taking these next steps with you. My goal is to build and maintain a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship with you, so you can feel empowered and confident, in yourself and in your decision making. I provide a comfortable and judgement-free space for you to be able to express yourself and grow.
(289) 806-7370 View (289) 806-7370

Online Therapists

Photo of Ally Florence, Registered Psychotherapist in Brampton, ON
Ally Florence
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CSAT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5V  (Online Only)
Addiction, mental health, emotional difficulties, stress and trauma may affect each of us differently at different points throughout our lives. It is my privilege to be able to walk beside you throughout your journey to recovery. Through using different therapeutic approaches and techniques, I work from a primarily client centred approach, knowing that you are the expert on yourself and your needs. Together, we can work through substance use, sex and love addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma or other mental health concerns, to create a life of balance and happiness.
Addiction, mental health, emotional difficulties, stress and trauma may affect each of us differently at different points throughout our lives. It is my privilege to be able to walk beside you throughout your journey to recovery. Through using different therapeutic approaches and techniques, I work from a primarily client centred approach, knowing that you are the expert on yourself and your needs. Together, we can work through substance use, sex and love addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma or other mental health concerns, to create a life of balance and happiness.
(226) 457-2416 View (226) 457-2416
Photo of Ariel Lewis, Registered Social Worker in Brampton, ON
Ariel Lewis
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6G  (Online Only)
I support clients who are aiming to reduce emotional distress, feel happier and more fulfilled, adopt healthy and effective coping strategies and accomplish life goals at a manageable pace. Building trust with clients is fundamental to my practice and I strive to create a warm, accepting and collaborative therapeutic environment. I work with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulaton, substance use, self-harm, relationship challenges, and a history of trauma. I also offer therapy to parents and family members who are supporting loved ones living with mental health challenges.
I support clients who are aiming to reduce emotional distress, feel happier and more fulfilled, adopt healthy and effective coping strategies and accomplish life goals at a manageable pace. Building trust with clients is fundamental to my practice and I strive to create a warm, accepting and collaborative therapeutic environment. I work with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulaton, substance use, self-harm, relationship challenges, and a history of trauma. I also offer therapy to parents and family members who are supporting loved ones living with mental health challenges.
View
Photo of Online Therapy Centre , Psychologist in Brampton, ON
Online Therapy Centre
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Newmarket, ON L3X
IN-PERSON or ONLINE sessions! OTC is home to a skilled team of psychologists, psychotherapists and social workers dedicated to providing psychological assessments/evaluations and counselling treatments in a convenient and accessible online format. Our goal is to help children, individuals, couples and families improve their mental health and well-being through support from our experienced team. OTC offers a range of therapies to address a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, addiction, anger management, emotion regulation, mood/behavioural disorders and more.
IN-PERSON or ONLINE sessions! OTC is home to a skilled team of psychologists, psychotherapists and social workers dedicated to providing psychological assessments/evaluations and counselling treatments in a convenient and accessible online format. Our goal is to help children, individuals, couples and families improve their mental health and well-being through support from our experienced team. OTC offers a range of therapies to address a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, addiction, anger management, emotion regulation, mood/behavioural disorders and more.
(289) 723-1654 View (289) 723-1654

See more therapy options for Brampton

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.