Addiction Therapists in Oakville, ON

Photo of Catarina Martins, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Catarina Martins
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6J
Thank you for being here! Are you dealing with the effects of addiction, trauma, relationship issues, or just feeling overwhelmed? No matter how big or small the problem seems, I would be honoured to support you on this journey. In our work together, we can unpack your emotions, uncertainties, and triggers, and use the tools you have within yourself to guide change. I will provide you a space to slow down and explore the patterns affecting your life. Together, we can transform these core issues, empowering you to build a more fulfilling and balanced life.
Thank you for being here! Are you dealing with the effects of addiction, trauma, relationship issues, or just feeling overwhelmed? No matter how big or small the problem seems, I would be honoured to support you on this journey. In our work together, we can unpack your emotions, uncertainties, and triggers, and use the tools you have within yourself to guide change. I will provide you a space to slow down and explore the patterns affecting your life. Together, we can transform these core issues, empowering you to build a more fulfilling and balanced life.
(289) 206-8564 View (289) 206-8564
Photo of Sean Mooney, RSSW, Registered Social Worker
Sean Mooney
Registered Social Worker, RSSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you court-mandated or have you been recommended to seek treatment for anger, parenting, addiction, or abuse? Acknowledging that you need help and taking the step to seek it can be challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. I am here to guide you through this journey with compassion and support. As a certified Caring Dads Facilitator, with specialized training in anger management and addiction treatment, I can help you navigate these challenges and work toward positive change in your life. Let’s take this important step together.
Are you court-mandated or have you been recommended to seek treatment for anger, parenting, addiction, or abuse? Acknowledging that you need help and taking the step to seek it can be challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. I am here to guide you through this journey with compassion and support. As a certified Caring Dads Facilitator, with specialized training in anger management and addiction treatment, I can help you navigate these challenges and work toward positive change in your life. Let’s take this important step together.
(289) 275-6558 View (289) 275-6558
Photo of Amber Dalsin, MSc, CPsych, Psychologist
Amber Dalsin
Psychologist, MSc, CPsych
Verified Verified
Online Only
I help couples overcome conflict to create strong and harmonious relationships. As a Certified Gottman Therapist, I help couples quiet the conflict in their relationship. What were once heart-breaking conversations the couple did not know how to fix, turn into dialogue around making the relationship better, repairing old hurts, and deepening emotional connection. Whether the conflict stems from poor communication and emotional distance, to trauma, affairs, infertility, or substance use problems, the evidence based treatments can help couples communicate openly and find solutions, or decide it is time to move on.
I help couples overcome conflict to create strong and harmonious relationships. As a Certified Gottman Therapist, I help couples quiet the conflict in their relationship. What were once heart-breaking conversations the couple did not know how to fix, turn into dialogue around making the relationship better, repairing old hurts, and deepening emotional connection. Whether the conflict stems from poor communication and emotional distance, to trauma, affairs, infertility, or substance use problems, the evidence based treatments can help couples communicate openly and find solutions, or decide it is time to move on.
View
Photo of Nikki Venere Brenner, MSc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Nikki Venere Brenner
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
She is highly specialized in treating Trauma, Depression, Eating Disorders, Addiction, and Personality Disorders.
Learning to simply cope with your pain isn’t good enough. Find long-term relief by unlocking the unconscious root cause of your distress with in-depth mental health specialists at The Mind People. Struggling with untreated mental health issues leaves you stuck and suffering with pain that can seriously disrupt your sleep, impact your relationships with others, and negatively influence your sense of self and physical well-being.
She is highly specialized in treating Trauma, Depression, Eating Disorders, Addiction, and Personality Disorders.
Learning to simply cope with your pain isn’t good enough. Find long-term relief by unlocking the unconscious root cause of your distress with in-depth mental health specialists at The Mind People. Struggling with untreated mental health issues leaves you stuck and suffering with pain that can seriously disrupt your sleep, impact your relationships with others, and negatively influence your sense of self and physical well-being.
(416) 505-3899 View (416) 505-3899
Photo of Jodi Rouah - Counselling & Co. , Registered Social Worker
Counselling & Co.
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6J
We support clients through addiction, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, neurodivergent identities, parenting, perinatal mental health, relationship issues, stress and burn-out.
Are you feeling disconnected from the people in your life? Have you lost your sense of self? Here at Counselling and Co., we understand how lonely that can feel. When circumstances change unexpectedly, loss and betrayals sideline us, or loved ones let us down, it can feel overwhelming and uncertainty can creep in leaving us unsure how to navigate next steps. At Counselling and Co., we believe in connection, compassion, and community lead to clarity and healing. Our team of therapists are like a village of supporters, here to help you connect more deeply with yourself and your loved ones through compassion and understanding.
We support clients through addiction, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, neurodivergent identities, parenting, perinatal mental health, relationship issues, stress and burn-out.
Are you feeling disconnected from the people in your life? Have you lost your sense of self? Here at Counselling and Co., we understand how lonely that can feel. When circumstances change unexpectedly, loss and betrayals sideline us, or loved ones let us down, it can feel overwhelming and uncertainty can creep in leaving us unsure how to navigate next steps. At Counselling and Co., we believe in connection, compassion, and community lead to clarity and healing. Our team of therapists are like a village of supporters, here to help you connect more deeply with yourself and your loved ones through compassion and understanding.
View
Photo of Adam Gelinas - First Step Men's Therapy (New Year, New You!), RP, ASAT, EMDR, Registered Psychotherapist
First Step Men's Therapy (New Year, New You!)
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, ASAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Our specializations include: sex therapy, sexual addiction, alcohol use, substance misuse, ADHD, anger management, anxiety, infidelity, divorce, depression, men's issues, grief, parenting, and couples counselling.
Are you feeling disconnected to yourself, loved ones, or society? Do you question whether you are a good father, son, or partner? Do you feel angry, stuck, overwhelmed, powerless, guilty, or "not normal". 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, suicidal ideation, poor relationships, grief, low self-esteem, or low self-worth. First Step Men's Therapy offers a safe, warm, and inviting space for men to heal, learn, and grow. Book a free consultation today. No waitlist - Click the "website" button to start!
Our specializations include: sex therapy, sexual addiction, alcohol use, substance misuse, ADHD, anger management, anxiety, infidelity, divorce, depression, men's issues, grief, parenting, and couples counselling.
Are you feeling disconnected to yourself, loved ones, or society? Do you question whether you are a good father, son, or partner? Do you feel angry, stuck, overwhelmed, powerless, guilty, or "not normal". 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, suicidal ideation, poor relationships, grief, low self-esteem, or low self-worth. First Step Men's Therapy offers a safe, warm, and inviting space for men to heal, learn, and grow. Book a free consultation today. No waitlist - Click the "website" button to start!
(289) 814-9978 View (289) 814-9978
Photo of Lise Fitzsimmons, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Lise Fitzsimmons
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6K
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re navigating them alone. Whether you’re facing loss, anxiety, trauma, or struggles with substance use, it’s not easy to find your way through. I’ve experienced my own share of life transitions, including divorce, the loss of a spouse, and raising three adult children. Therapy was a vital part of my healing process, helping me move forward and find strength during those difficult times.
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re navigating them alone. Whether you’re facing loss, anxiety, trauma, or struggles with substance use, it’s not easy to find your way through. I’ve experienced my own share of life transitions, including divorce, the loss of a spouse, and raising three adult children. Therapy was a vital part of my healing process, helping me move forward and find strength during those difficult times.
View
Photo of Jodi Rouah - Jodi Rouah, Counselling & Co. , MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jodi Rouah, Counselling & Co.
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6J
One of my specialties includes working with families where one or more individuals is substance involved.
Welcome and thank you for visiting my profile. My hope is that through our work together you feel empowered to understand, strengthen and repair your relationship with self and other, even when it doesn't seem possible. I work from a collaborative and client centered stance; facilitating individuals, couples and families towards a greater understanding of their emotional responses and needs. As we become aware of ourselves and our needs, we have a better sense of where to make change. My specialties include Maternal Mental Health (pregnancy/postpartum), Substance Use & Addiction, relationship struggles and Hold Me Tight Workshops.
One of my specialties includes working with families where one or more individuals is substance involved.
Welcome and thank you for visiting my profile. My hope is that through our work together you feel empowered to understand, strengthen and repair your relationship with self and other, even when it doesn't seem possible. I work from a collaborative and client centered stance; facilitating individuals, couples and families towards a greater understanding of their emotional responses and needs. As we become aware of ourselves and our needs, we have a better sense of where to make change. My specialties include Maternal Mental Health (pregnancy/postpartum), Substance Use & Addiction, relationship struggles and Hold Me Tight Workshops.
(289) 272-6222 View (289) 272-6222
Photo of Dan Chalykoff, M Ed, CRPO, CCPA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Dan Chalykoff
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), M Ed, CRPO, CCPA
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6L
I was born into the communities of addiction & trauma.
I’m accepting new clients. If you want to ask some big questions, I can help. My areas of focus are addiction, trauma, burnout, and major life changes. I bring a philosophical, psychological, and existential approach to your issues. What does that mean? Together we examine, values, priorities, adherence to self, and making change happen. Identifying the issues is important but, as a wise 12-stepper once put it, "nothing changes if nothing changes." You CAN change, I can help you get there.
I was born into the communities of addiction & trauma.
I’m accepting new clients. If you want to ask some big questions, I can help. My areas of focus are addiction, trauma, burnout, and major life changes. I bring a philosophical, psychological, and existential approach to your issues. What does that mean? Together we examine, values, priorities, adherence to self, and making change happen. Identifying the issues is important but, as a wise 12-stepper once put it, "nothing changes if nothing changes." You CAN change, I can help you get there.
(289) 312-0489 View (289) 312-0489
Photo of Addictions Counsellor Agnes Kaufman, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Addictions Counsellor Agnes Kaufman
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Maybe you or someone you love is struggling with addiction.
Today, we live in a fast-paced, stressful world. The hardships of balancing our work, education and personal time becomes increasingly hard to achieve. Our responsibilities continue to grow and the world around us is becoming so demanding. Sometimes, to cope we use resources which may, in fact, be harmful to ourselves. Addictions are often felt as shameful and concealed from others. We are all vulnerable to making decisions that are not always in our best interest. I am not here to judge you, but rather provide useful tools which will help provide opportunities for making healthier choices.
Maybe you or someone you love is struggling with addiction.
Today, we live in a fast-paced, stressful world. The hardships of balancing our work, education and personal time becomes increasingly hard to achieve. Our responsibilities continue to grow and the world around us is becoming so demanding. Sometimes, to cope we use resources which may, in fact, be harmful to ourselves. Addictions are often felt as shameful and concealed from others. We are all vulnerable to making decisions that are not always in our best interest. I am not here to judge you, but rather provide useful tools which will help provide opportunities for making healthier choices.
(289) 210-5987 View (289) 210-5987
Photo of Brian Pauls, PhD, Psychologist
Brian Pauls
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in helping individuals navigate challenges related to substance use, anger management, intimate partner violence, sexual offences and other forms of legal involvement. I also support those grappling with concerns about their sexual thoughts, feelings, or behaviours. My approach is rooted in compassion, non-judgment, and a commitment to creating a safe space where clients feel empowered to explore change.
I specialize in helping individuals navigate challenges related to substance use, anger management, intimate partner violence, sexual offences and other forms of legal involvement. I also support those grappling with concerns about their sexual thoughts, feelings, or behaviours. My approach is rooted in compassion, non-judgment, and a commitment to creating a safe space where clients feel empowered to explore change.
(647) 362-1162 View (647) 362-1162
Photo of Lucia Borrelli, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Lucia Borrelli
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H
I specialize in substance use, mental health, disordered eating, self-esteem and body image related concerns.
Are you looking to understand yourself better? Is your inner critic making you feel small and worthless every day? Do you want to change a pattern of behaviour that is keeping you stuck? Do you want to feel more confident and sure of your needs? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how to navigate their lives, careers and relationships. I believe that my role as a therapist is to be a non-judgmental mirror to support in challenging that inner critic. Let's work together so you can build a life that brings you joy and strengthens your relationships.
I specialize in substance use, mental health, disordered eating, self-esteem and body image related concerns.
Are you looking to understand yourself better? Is your inner critic making you feel small and worthless every day? Do you want to change a pattern of behaviour that is keeping you stuck? Do you want to feel more confident and sure of your needs? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how to navigate their lives, careers and relationships. I believe that my role as a therapist is to be a non-judgmental mirror to support in challenging that inner critic. Let's work together so you can build a life that brings you joy and strengthens your relationships.
View
Photo of Nathan J Cooper And Associates, CPsych, Psychologist
Nathan J Cooper And Associates
Psychologist, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6M
Dr. Cooper and his associates, Joel Schramm and Maryam Rahat, offer care for individuals and couples dealing with concerns that are getting in the way of fully functioning both personally and socially. Common concerns include: anxiety, depression, substance use, procrastination, trauma, self-esteem, relationship conflict, career indecision, and many others. Maryam Rahat is focused on providing support to individuals in managing ADHD including associated issues of organization and behavioural addiction. Maryam is also fluent in Farsi and Arabic.
Dr. Cooper and his associates, Joel Schramm and Maryam Rahat, offer care for individuals and couples dealing with concerns that are getting in the way of fully functioning both personally and socially. Common concerns include: anxiety, depression, substance use, procrastination, trauma, self-esteem, relationship conflict, career indecision, and many others. Maryam Rahat is focused on providing support to individuals in managing ADHD including associated issues of organization and behavioural addiction. Maryam is also fluent in Farsi and Arabic.
(289) 768-7727 View (289) 768-7727
Photo of Anne Vickers, BA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Anne Vickers
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RP
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6M
Welcome! I am an experienced psychotherapist of 21 years with experience in mental health, addiction, physical health trauma and family counselling. I work from a person-centred philosophy believing that strength lies within everyone, though sometimes it is hard to find. I work with clients in both short and longer-term capacities using a variety of methodologies. Most importantly, I am personable and respectful of the path you have travelled prior to initiating counselling. I look forward to meeting you and assisting you in establishing goals towards your personal growth.
Welcome! I am an experienced psychotherapist of 21 years with experience in mental health, addiction, physical health trauma and family counselling. I work from a person-centred philosophy believing that strength lies within everyone, though sometimes it is hard to find. I work with clients in both short and longer-term capacities using a variety of methodologies. Most importantly, I am personable and respectful of the path you have travelled prior to initiating counselling. I look forward to meeting you and assisting you in establishing goals towards your personal growth.
(365) 800-1989 View (365) 800-1989
Photo of Tamer Matta, MA, BScPh, Registered Psychotherapist
Tamer Matta
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BScPh
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6J
I specialize in Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Trauma.
Clients come to me saying "I am stuck", "I am unable to do anything" or "Life is so hard, I can't cope". As a goal-oriented therapist, I will help you identify the life scripts that are keeping you stuck in an unhealthy pattern. With that knowledge, you will then be able to start changing the harmful ways you have been operating.
I specialize in Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Trauma.
Clients come to me saying "I am stuck", "I am unable to do anything" or "Life is so hard, I can't cope". As a goal-oriented therapist, I will help you identify the life scripts that are keeping you stuck in an unhealthy pattern. With that knowledge, you will then be able to start changing the harmful ways you have been operating.
(226) 270-6776 View (226) 270-6776
Photo of Eryl McCaffrey, RP-Q, MACP, RYT, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Eryl McCaffrey
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP-Q, MACP, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6L
In addition to mindfulness-based practices like breathwork, meditation, and journaling, I use CBT, somatics, polyvagal theory, ACT, parts work, and inner child work to support individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorders, grief, trauma, and general stress.
If you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck, and disconnected from yourself, you have come to the right place. Let me walk alongside you and offer you a safe and supportive space to explore your experiences and learn new, empowering ways of responding to your challenges. I'm a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and Certified Yoga Teacher, and I blend mindfulness, neuroscience, and psychology with my own mental health and addiction recovery tools to offer clients a unique, holistic approach to healing. I've been where you are and I know this: you don't have to do this "work" alone.
In addition to mindfulness-based practices like breathwork, meditation, and journaling, I use CBT, somatics, polyvagal theory, ACT, parts work, and inner child work to support individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorders, grief, trauma, and general stress.
If you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck, and disconnected from yourself, you have come to the right place. Let me walk alongside you and offer you a safe and supportive space to explore your experiences and learn new, empowering ways of responding to your challenges. I'm a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and Certified Yoga Teacher, and I blend mindfulness, neuroscience, and psychology with my own mental health and addiction recovery tools to offer clients a unique, holistic approach to healing. I've been where you are and I know this: you don't have to do this "work" alone.
(647) 365-1729 View (647) 365-1729
Photo of Shayna Oksenberg - First Step Men's Therapy - (In-Person in Toronto), BAH, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
First Step Men's Therapy - (In-Person in Toronto)
Registered Social Worker, BAH, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H
Our specializations include: addiction, anger management, anxiety, depression, ADHD, infidelity, alcohol use, substance use, trauma, relationship issues, divorce, self-esteem, stress, gambling, and internet addiction - to name a few.
Life can feel heavy sometimes, and it’s okay to seek support. Many men face challenges like stress, relationship struggles, or self-doubt, often feeling like they have to carry it all alone. But you don’t have to. Working with me offers a safe, compassionate space to talk things through, gain understanding, and find your way forward. Whether it’s big changes or small steps, we’ll navigate it together at your pace. You deserve support and a space to feel heard. Taking that first step isn’t easy, but it can lead to a lighter, brighter path ahead.
Our specializations include: addiction, anger management, anxiety, depression, ADHD, infidelity, alcohol use, substance use, trauma, relationship issues, divorce, self-esteem, stress, gambling, and internet addiction - to name a few.
Life can feel heavy sometimes, and it’s okay to seek support. Many men face challenges like stress, relationship struggles, or self-doubt, often feeling like they have to carry it all alone. But you don’t have to. Working with me offers a safe, compassionate space to talk things through, gain understanding, and find your way forward. Whether it’s big changes or small steps, we’ll navigate it together at your pace. You deserve support and a space to feel heard. Taking that first step isn’t easy, but it can lead to a lighter, brighter path ahead.
(365) 601-6896 View (365) 601-6896
Photo of Jennifer Lysay, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Jennifer Lysay
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in working with adults and families struggling with substance use and mental health-related issues.
Substance use is a symptom of an underlying issue and it is a way to cope with the underlying problem. Life can be challenging and it is very east to get stuck in an emotional vortex and not be able to find a way out. By examining your thoughts, behaviours, and feelings the hope is to distance you from the dependance of a substance to escape and start the healing process to re-align you with your core beliefs and values
I specialize in working with adults and families struggling with substance use and mental health-related issues.
Substance use is a symptom of an underlying issue and it is a way to cope with the underlying problem. Life can be challenging and it is very east to get stuck in an emotional vortex and not be able to find a way out. By examining your thoughts, behaviours, and feelings the hope is to distance you from the dependance of a substance to escape and start the healing process to re-align you with your core beliefs and values
(289) 536-5064 View (289) 536-5064
Photo of Van Vu, MSW, RSW, CCAC, Registered Social Worker
Van Vu
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CCAC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I support individuals with experiences of emotional disorders, trauma and addiction, grief and loss, and work with families experiencing high conflict separation/divorce.
Whether this is your first time or your return to therapy, I offer a flexible therapeutic approach that is client-centered and collaborative. I take a compassionate and thoughtful approach to ensure that I understand your concerns and your hopes for therapy. My therapeutic style is well-paced, warm, and caring. I use a dynamic combination of evidence-based treatment approaches and I incorporate practical and experiential treatment activities to support positive treatment outcomes.
I support individuals with experiences of emotional disorders, trauma and addiction, grief and loss, and work with families experiencing high conflict separation/divorce.
Whether this is your first time or your return to therapy, I offer a flexible therapeutic approach that is client-centered and collaborative. I take a compassionate and thoughtful approach to ensure that I understand your concerns and your hopes for therapy. My therapeutic style is well-paced, warm, and caring. I use a dynamic combination of evidence-based treatment approaches and I incorporate practical and experiential treatment activities to support positive treatment outcomes.
(365) 305-0397 View (365) 305-0397
Photo of Lauren Adam, BA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Lauren Adam
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6L
Over the years, I’ve worked with people just like you, struggling with addiction, mood disorders, anxiety, self esteem and BPD.
Are you struggling to break free from a cycle of secrecy, shame, and isolation? Do you wonder if you have a problem with substance use or addiction? Perhaps anxiety, depression or self esteem struggles are holding you back. You may feel stuck, lost, and disconnected, as if no one understands your struggles. Whether it’s your own substance use or a family member’s, you feel exhausted and unsure how to cope. But you’re contemplating change. You’re ready to regain control over your emotions, impulses and stop unhealthy patterns from dictating your life. Let’s get you there!
Over the years, I’ve worked with people just like you, struggling with addiction, mood disorders, anxiety, self esteem and BPD.
Are you struggling to break free from a cycle of secrecy, shame, and isolation? Do you wonder if you have a problem with substance use or addiction? Perhaps anxiety, depression or self esteem struggles are holding you back. You may feel stuck, lost, and disconnected, as if no one understands your struggles. Whether it’s your own substance use or a family member’s, you feel exhausted and unsure how to cope. But you’re contemplating change. You’re ready to regain control over your emotions, impulses and stop unhealthy patterns from dictating your life. Let’s get you there!
(289) 812-5201 View (289) 812-5201
1
...

See more therapy options for Oakville

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.