Addiction Therapists in St John's, NL

Photo of Kara Pinksen, BA, BSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kara Pinksen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, BSW, MSW
Verified Verified
St John's, NL A1B
I have specializations in Trauma, Addiction, and Mental Health and offer ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy).
Thank you for visiting my profile. I have a Masters Degree in Social Work and 21 years experience offering therapy to individuals, couples and families. Reaching out for therapy can be difficult. It can create feelings of anxiety or shame, or a fear of being misunderstood or judged. I believe that therapy should be a non-judgmental, collaborative experience, where you can comfortably uncover and confront the obstacles preventing you from living the life you deserve. My goal is to provide a non- judgmental, compassionate, trauma-informed, queer positive, gender affirming, respectful space that is inclusive to all.
I have specializations in Trauma, Addiction, and Mental Health and offer ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy).
Thank you for visiting my profile. I have a Masters Degree in Social Work and 21 years experience offering therapy to individuals, couples and families. Reaching out for therapy can be difficult. It can create feelings of anxiety or shame, or a fear of being misunderstood or judged. I believe that therapy should be a non-judgmental, collaborative experience, where you can comfortably uncover and confront the obstacles preventing you from living the life you deserve. My goal is to provide a non- judgmental, compassionate, trauma-informed, queer positive, gender affirming, respectful space that is inclusive to all.
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Photo of Brandon St Croix, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Brandon St Croix
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
In developing a safe and respectful environment, I strive to help clients feel comfortable to start the journey of recovery from addiction, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and/or anger. I understand the journey of recovery from substance use disorders is not easy but I am here to support clients towards their goals. I also understand life transitions of individuals, especially athletes and how mental health is a large component of an athlete's identity.
In developing a safe and respectful environment, I strive to help clients feel comfortable to start the journey of recovery from addiction, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and/or anger. I understand the journey of recovery from substance use disorders is not easy but I am here to support clients towards their goals. I also understand life transitions of individuals, especially athletes and how mental health is a large component of an athlete's identity.
(709) 499-0601 View (709) 499-0601
Photo of Tracy Kreuzburg - Reflections Counselling Services, BSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reflections Counselling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
St John's, NL A1A
I specialize in working with problematic addictive/ substance abuse and mental health issues- stress/anxiety, anger and depression.
In difficult times, we struggle to cope, and often engage in self-defeating behaviours that can further complicate our lives. I offer a service where you can feel safe to share without being judged. I have practiced counselling for over 17 years, with a 25+ year social work career history. I am a registered social worker, and obtained my Bachelor of Social Work degree from McGill University. I have also completed some MSW study at Memorial University, and have received intensive training from psychoanalyst Dr. Clarissa Pinkola Estes-Reyes.
I specialize in working with problematic addictive/ substance abuse and mental health issues- stress/anxiety, anger and depression.
In difficult times, we struggle to cope, and often engage in self-defeating behaviours that can further complicate our lives. I offer a service where you can feel safe to share without being judged. I have practiced counselling for over 17 years, with a 25+ year social work career history. I am a registered social worker, and obtained my Bachelor of Social Work degree from McGill University. I have also completed some MSW study at Memorial University, and have received intensive training from psychoanalyst Dr. Clarissa Pinkola Estes-Reyes.
(709) 910-6799 View (709) 910-6799
Photo of Kathy Anne Paquette, RP, Qualify, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Kathy Anne Paquette
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP, Qualify
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St John's, NL A1E
As a proud mom and coach to three young adults, I understand life can throw you a curve ball. My strengths as a therapist include, answering the “why” and “how”. I love helping adolescents, and adults with their families, to get on that road to healing. I specialize in substance use disorder, and ADHD coaching. I have an abundance of experience working with university students, helping with organization skills, time management and perfectionist. Each client is unique, so I have a tool box with many approaches such as, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, DBT and CBT to name a few.
As a proud mom and coach to three young adults, I understand life can throw you a curve ball. My strengths as a therapist include, answering the “why” and “how”. I love helping adolescents, and adults with their families, to get on that road to healing. I specialize in substance use disorder, and ADHD coaching. I have an abundance of experience working with university students, helping with organization skills, time management and perfectionist. Each client is unique, so I have a tool box with many approaches such as, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, DBT and CBT to name a few.
(343) 501-3478 View (343) 501-3478
Photo of Adam Gelinas - First Step Men's Therapy (No Waitlist), BA, MACP, ASAT, EMDR, Registered Psychotherapist
First Step Men's Therapy (No Waitlist)
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP, ASAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Our specializations include: sexual addiction, ADHD, alcohol use, grief, life transitions, divorce, parenting, trauma, PTSD, anger management, sex therapy, anxiety, relationship issues, depression, and men's issues.
Disconnected? Lost? Stuck? Hopeless? Feeling "broken"? Wondering what your purpose or meaning is in life? You may question whether you are a good father, son, or partner. Many men struggle with their mental health without seeking help or reaching out for support. Often, this struggle may lead to addiction, anxiety, depression, shame, guilt, poor relationships, grief, low self-esteem, or low self-worth. It's time to normalize men seeking support. First Step Men's Therapy offers a safe, warm, and inviting space for men to heal, learn, and grow. Book a free 20-minute consultation - No waitlist - Click the "website button"!
Our specializations include: sexual addiction, ADHD, alcohol use, grief, life transitions, divorce, parenting, trauma, PTSD, anger management, sex therapy, anxiety, relationship issues, depression, and men's issues.
Disconnected? Lost? Stuck? Hopeless? Feeling "broken"? Wondering what your purpose or meaning is in life? You may question whether you are a good father, son, or partner. Many men struggle with their mental health without seeking help or reaching out for support. Often, this struggle may lead to addiction, anxiety, depression, shame, guilt, poor relationships, grief, low self-esteem, or low self-worth. It's time to normalize men seeking support. First Step Men's Therapy offers a safe, warm, and inviting space for men to heal, learn, and grow. Book a free 20-minute consultation - No waitlist - Click the "website button"!
(431) 340-7508 View (431) 340-7508
Photo of Suzanne Barry-Kroening, MSW, RSW, CIAC, Registered Social Worker
Suzanne Barry-Kroening
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CIAC
Verified Verified
St John's, NL A1A
With almost 20 years in trauma informed mental health work, I am also certified as an Indigenous Addiction Counsellor.
I work with individuals and families through a trauma informed approach, combining Indigenous culture and tradition with Western therapeutic skills to support them as they negotiate the highs and lows of developmental stages and life transitions and work through them to build healthier lives and stronger relationships.
With almost 20 years in trauma informed mental health work, I am also certified as an Indigenous Addiction Counsellor.
I work with individuals and families through a trauma informed approach, combining Indigenous culture and tradition with Western therapeutic skills to support them as they negotiate the highs and lows of developmental stages and life transitions and work through them to build healthier lives and stronger relationships.
(709) 800-3879 View (709) 800-3879
Photo of Cassie Guye, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Cassie Guye
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
St John's, NL A1E
It can be difficult to live the life you want when your emotions feel overwhelming, and there are effective therapeutic services that can help. I am a registered social worker who has been practicing in the field of mental health and addictions since 2017. I offer services for a variety of conditions, including anxiety, depression, mood changes, trauma responses, and more. I strive to be intentional, transparent and effective in the services I offer. I am passionate about helping individuals cultivate insight and resiliency in the face of trauma, life changes, mental illness, substance misuse, and systemic barriers.
It can be difficult to live the life you want when your emotions feel overwhelming, and there are effective therapeutic services that can help. I am a registered social worker who has been practicing in the field of mental health and addictions since 2017. I offer services for a variety of conditions, including anxiety, depression, mood changes, trauma responses, and more. I strive to be intentional, transparent and effective in the services I offer. I am passionate about helping individuals cultivate insight and resiliency in the face of trauma, life changes, mental illness, substance misuse, and systemic barriers.
(709) 400-2393 View (709) 400-2393
Photo of Hannah Sparkes, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Hannah Sparkes
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St John's, NL A1C
Hello ! I’m Hannah Sparkes with Spark Your Growth. Seeking support can be hard so I appreciate you taking time to view my profile and see if I am a suitable fit for you! I work with clients to help heal trauma, develop self-confidence, cope with life’s stressors, build stronger relationships, regulate anxiety and stress, overcome addiction and achieve a life you want to live, amongst other things. Given that each person is unique, I understand there is no one-size fits all when it comes to therapy. I use a combination of talk and somatic therapies to create an approach that will meet each individual's needs and interests.
Hello ! I’m Hannah Sparkes with Spark Your Growth. Seeking support can be hard so I appreciate you taking time to view my profile and see if I am a suitable fit for you! I work with clients to help heal trauma, develop self-confidence, cope with life’s stressors, build stronger relationships, regulate anxiety and stress, overcome addiction and achieve a life you want to live, amongst other things. Given that each person is unique, I understand there is no one-size fits all when it comes to therapy. I use a combination of talk and somatic therapies to create an approach that will meet each individual's needs and interests.
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Photo of Becky Fleming, MEd, CCC, ND, Counsellor
Becky Fleming
Counsellor, MEd, CCC, ND
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St John's, NL A1A
Finding a trusted person to support you in therapy can be a big step- and an overwhelming one! I'm so glad you're curious about how counselling can help. My diverse training and experience makes me a great fit in supporting people across the lifespan in areas such as relationships (intimate, familial, friendships, and even dome), neurodivergence, burnout/compassion fatigue, substance use/other dependencies, and mental health concerns like anxiety and depression. These concerns are a little snapshot of my specialties, but I'm comfortable and ready to talk you through anything you're going through- together, we can find solutions.
Finding a trusted person to support you in therapy can be a big step- and an overwhelming one! I'm so glad you're curious about how counselling can help. My diverse training and experience makes me a great fit in supporting people across the lifespan in areas such as relationships (intimate, familial, friendships, and even dome), neurodivergence, burnout/compassion fatigue, substance use/other dependencies, and mental health concerns like anxiety and depression. These concerns are a little snapshot of my specialties, but I'm comfortable and ready to talk you through anything you're going through- together, we can find solutions.
(709) 309-0072 View (709) 309-0072
Photo of Trevor Day, MSW, RSW
Trevor Day
Master Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
St John's, NL A1E
Trevor brings over twenty years of experience working in the mental health and addiction field. Trevor’s down to earth approach creates a safe environment to build therapeutic relationship to develop realistic goals and make meaningful change. Trevor’s practice incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (C.B.T.), Emotion Focused Therapy (E.F.T), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (A.C.T.) and other therapeutic modalities through a trauma informed lens.
Trevor brings over twenty years of experience working in the mental health and addiction field. Trevor’s down to earth approach creates a safe environment to build therapeutic relationship to develop realistic goals and make meaningful change. Trevor’s practice incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (C.B.T.), Emotion Focused Therapy (E.F.T), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (A.C.T.) and other therapeutic modalities through a trauma informed lens.
(709) 300-1904 View (709) 300-1904
Photo of Harrison K Farrell, Counsellor
Harrison K Farrell
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Online Only
I prefer to work with a wide range of clientele, but preferably individuals who are seeking to make solution-focused changes to their circumstances. I have experience working alongside those with a variety of diagnosed mental health disorders, and specifically those struggling with substance use disorder.
I prefer to work with a wide range of clientele, but preferably individuals who are seeking to make solution-focused changes to their circumstances. I have experience working alongside those with a variety of diagnosed mental health disorders, and specifically those struggling with substance use disorder.
(709) 200-4264 View (709) 200-4264
Photo of Paula Elizabeth Hennessey, BA Hons, MEd, CCC, CPT, Counsellor
Paula Elizabeth Hennessey
Counsellor, BA Hons, MEd, CCC, CPT
Verified Verified
St John's, NL A1C
Hello and welcome to Mandala Counselling and Play Therapy! I am a Certified Canadian Counsellor and a Certified Play Therapist. I am a professional member of Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association, Canadian Association of Play Therapy, and Canadian Psychological Association. I am trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS). I completed a certificate in trauma and addiction treatment, and am an EMDR Child and Attachment Specialist and EMDR Sand-tray Specialist.
Hello and welcome to Mandala Counselling and Play Therapy! I am a Certified Canadian Counsellor and a Certified Play Therapist. I am a professional member of Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association, Canadian Association of Play Therapy, and Canadian Psychological Association. I am trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS). I completed a certificate in trauma and addiction treatment, and am an EMDR Child and Attachment Specialist and EMDR Sand-tray Specialist.
(709) 500-6834 View (709) 500-6834
Photo of Catherine Dwyer, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Catherine Dwyer
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
St John's, NL A1E
Are you feeling overwhelmed with stress, chronically exhausted and on the verge of burnout? Do you feel like you’re stuck in fight/flight or shutdown mode? Are you experiencing anger, anxiety, depression and/or relying too much on alcohol or other substances to cope? Are you struggling with centering your own needs and desires, or maintaining balance in your life? Are you a helping professional or caregiver? If so, you may benefit from speaking to a professional who specializes in treating stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, addiction, empathic strain/compassion fatigue, trauma exposure and secondary traumatic stress.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with stress, chronically exhausted and on the verge of burnout? Do you feel like you’re stuck in fight/flight or shutdown mode? Are you experiencing anger, anxiety, depression and/or relying too much on alcohol or other substances to cope? Are you struggling with centering your own needs and desires, or maintaining balance in your life? Are you a helping professional or caregiver? If so, you may benefit from speaking to a professional who specializes in treating stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, addiction, empathic strain/compassion fatigue, trauma exposure and secondary traumatic stress.
(343) 305-1119 View (343) 305-1119
Photo of Coleen Woodrow, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Coleen Woodrow
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St John's, NL A1B
I also have experience providing services for substance use from both abstinence and Harm Reduction approaches.
Welcome to my page. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, trauma symptoms, substance use or relational concerns it can be difficult to know where to start. If you hope to improve your relationships, reduce stress, increase motivation, explore your relationship with a substance of choice, manage emotions or understand your symptoms, therapy can provide you with guidance and support.
I also have experience providing services for substance use from both abstinence and Harm Reduction approaches.
Welcome to my page. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, trauma symptoms, substance use or relational concerns it can be difficult to know where to start. If you hope to improve your relationships, reduce stress, increase motivation, explore your relationship with a substance of choice, manage emotions or understand your symptoms, therapy can provide you with guidance and support.
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Photo of Laura Gibbons, BA, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Laura Gibbons
Counsellor, BA, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
St John's, NL A1A
I have worked to provide clients support with ADHD, OCD, PTSD, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, behavioural issues, self-esteem, anger management, relationship issues, work life balance, perinatal and or substance abuse.
Throughout different stages in our lives, we are all faced with challenges that can sometimes become overwhelming and difficult to approach. You may feel lost, confused or even hopeless, and lack the insight or skills required to navigate this time in your life. My goal is to support you by providing a non-judgmental, safe and healing environment. I will introduce appropriate coping mechanisms specific to your treatment goals and utilize your strengths to create meaningful changes to move forward in a more positive direction.
I have worked to provide clients support with ADHD, OCD, PTSD, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, behavioural issues, self-esteem, anger management, relationship issues, work life balance, perinatal and or substance abuse.
Throughout different stages in our lives, we are all faced with challenges that can sometimes become overwhelming and difficult to approach. You may feel lost, confused or even hopeless, and lack the insight or skills required to navigate this time in your life. My goal is to support you by providing a non-judgmental, safe and healing environment. I will introduce appropriate coping mechanisms specific to your treatment goals and utilize your strengths to create meaningful changes to move forward in a more positive direction.
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Photo of Robyn MacDonald, BA,  BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Robyn MacDonald
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! My name is Robyn MacDonald, and I appreciate how challenging it can be to reach out for support. My area of focus is supporting individuals, adults, families, and groups with interpersonal conflict, anxiety, self-worth, and addictions. Through my experience, I have worked alongside youth and their families regarding issues with bullying, abuse, mental health challenges, school refusals, substance use, family conflict, building motivation, and achieving goals.
Hello! My name is Robyn MacDonald, and I appreciate how challenging it can be to reach out for support. My area of focus is supporting individuals, adults, families, and groups with interpersonal conflict, anxiety, self-worth, and addictions. Through my experience, I have worked alongside youth and their families regarding issues with bullying, abuse, mental health challenges, school refusals, substance use, family conflict, building motivation, and achieving goals.
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Photo of Debbie Roberts, MA, CCC, EMDR, Counsellor
Debbie Roberts
Counsellor, MA, CCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Online Only
Recovery from addiction, trauma and/or betrayal can put your life back on track and help you regain sight of your goals.
Debbie Roberts has worked in the field of addiction for 15 years and holds a Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Counselling through Briercrest Seminary. Debbie is a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC), a trained EMDR therapist, a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and a Certified Partners Trauma Therapist (CPTT). Debbie is passionate about helping you reach your goals by addressing your individual needs so you become more successful. Working with individuals, couples and families to overcome trauma, addiction, attachment and intimacy issues. Heal your past, focus on the present and reach your goals. Invest in your future!
Recovery from addiction, trauma and/or betrayal can put your life back on track and help you regain sight of your goals.
Debbie Roberts has worked in the field of addiction for 15 years and holds a Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Counselling through Briercrest Seminary. Debbie is a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC), a trained EMDR therapist, a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and a Certified Partners Trauma Therapist (CPTT). Debbie is passionate about helping you reach your goals by addressing your individual needs so you become more successful. Working with individuals, couples and families to overcome trauma, addiction, attachment and intimacy issues. Heal your past, focus on the present and reach your goals. Invest in your future!
(306) 992-3751 View (306) 992-3751
Photo of Valerie Gosselin - Evolve Counselling - Emotion Regulation | Anger, MA, CRPO, CCPA, Registered Psychotherapist
Evolve Counselling - Emotion Regulation | Anger
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CRPO, CCPA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you struggling with anger, addiction, guilt, or shame? Do you find it difficult to regulate your emotions? At Evolve Counselling, I offer a non-judgmental space where you can explore and understand these challenges. As a trauma-informed and culturally competent therapist with over ten years of experience, I help individuals from diverse backgrounds navigate anxiety, depression, anger management, narcissistic abuse, burnout, bullying, self-esteem, grief, trauma, relationship issues, etc. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your emotions, develop healthier coping strategies, and work towards healing and personal growth.
Are you struggling with anger, addiction, guilt, or shame? Do you find it difficult to regulate your emotions? At Evolve Counselling, I offer a non-judgmental space where you can explore and understand these challenges. As a trauma-informed and culturally competent therapist with over ten years of experience, I help individuals from diverse backgrounds navigate anxiety, depression, anger management, narcissistic abuse, burnout, bullying, self-esteem, grief, trauma, relationship issues, etc. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes of your emotions, develop healthier coping strategies, and work towards healing and personal growth.
(343) 501-2941 View (343) 501-2941
Photo of Jenni M MacPherson, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jenni M MacPherson
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
In addition to being flexible and responsive, I am also a passionate advocate for persons affected by trauma, substance misuse, and mental health issues.
I love the work that I am able to undertake as a clinical social worker. It is my priority to facilitate the goals of my clients in a warm and trusting therapeutic relationship, acknowledging that each person has their own story, requiring personal attention tailored to their needs. I provide both individual and group counselling in the areas of mental health, addictions, concurrent disorders and trauma.
In addition to being flexible and responsive, I am also a passionate advocate for persons affected by trauma, substance misuse, and mental health issues.
I love the work that I am able to undertake as a clinical social worker. It is my priority to facilitate the goals of my clients in a warm and trusting therapeutic relationship, acknowledging that each person has their own story, requiring personal attention tailored to their needs. I provide both individual and group counselling in the areas of mental health, addictions, concurrent disorders and trauma.
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Photo of Lori Slaunwhite Mindful Path, RCT, RP, CSAT, NADA-RT, Registered Psychotherapist
Lori Slaunwhite Mindful Path
Registered Psychotherapist, RCT, RP, CSAT, NADA-RT
Verified Verified
St John's, NL A1A
Waitlist for new clients
Drug and Alcohol Abuse, Sex Addiction, PTSD.
You may be considering counselling therapy for a specific reason such as a grief or sadness, difficulty in controlling your use of drugs or alcohol, or life changes such as separation and divorce. Perhaps life simply seems difficult. Many of us will have had difficult experiences at some stage of our lives that may have affected our sense of self or leave us searching for more. Although it may be difficult to reach out for help, please know that I will hear your story with compassion, openness, and a willingness to support you in your healing process.
Drug and Alcohol Abuse, Sex Addiction, PTSD.
You may be considering counselling therapy for a specific reason such as a grief or sadness, difficulty in controlling your use of drugs or alcohol, or life changes such as separation and divorce. Perhaps life simply seems difficult. Many of us will have had difficult experiences at some stage of our lives that may have affected our sense of self or leave us searching for more. Although it may be difficult to reach out for help, please know that I will hear your story with compassion, openness, and a willingness to support you in your healing process.
(855) 773-8317 View (855) 773-8317
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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.