Photo of Julie Ingram, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Julie Ingram
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL50
Hello, and welcome to my page. I have been qualified as a psychotherapist and supervisor for over 18 years, with previous experience in mental health and Social Work Management. I work with adults, children, adolescents and have expertise in working with family issues. I can help with a wide range of matters including: anxiety and depression, self esteem, family difficulties, relationship issues, Childhood abuse, Childhood neglect, Life threatening events, eating disorders, self harm, suicide and trauma. I provide a welcoming, safe space (indoors or out doors) which provides a relationship based approach to working together.
Hello, and welcome to my page. I have been qualified as a psychotherapist and supervisor for over 18 years, with previous experience in mental health and Social Work Management. I work with adults, children, adolescents and have expertise in working with family issues. I can help with a wide range of matters including: anxiety and depression, self esteem, family difficulties, relationship issues, Childhood abuse, Childhood neglect, Life threatening events, eating disorders, self harm, suicide and trauma. I provide a welcoming, safe space (indoors or out doors) which provides a relationship based approach to working together.
01981 200129 View 01981 200129

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jamie Maycock, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Jamie Maycock
Psychotherapist, PsychD, BACP
Verified Verified
Gloucester GL1
I am a BACP registered Psychotherapist and have been working with clients since 2013. I offer an integrative approach, working with each person as an individual and using different theory’s to support the client in the best way. I offer an open minded and non judgemental space for clients to explore what’s troubling them. I work with all client issues. My specialist areas of work include offering support to clients with OCD using a range of CBT tools, working with victims of rape, sexual abuse and domestic violence, and working with complex mental health issues. I have completed specialised training for providing psychotherapy.
I am a BACP registered Psychotherapist and have been working with clients since 2013. I offer an integrative approach, working with each person as an individual and using different theory’s to support the client in the best way. I offer an open minded and non judgemental space for clients to explore what’s troubling them. I work with all client issues. My specialist areas of work include offering support to clients with OCD using a range of CBT tools, working with victims of rape, sexual abuse and domestic violence, and working with complex mental health issues. I have completed specialised training for providing psychotherapy.
07588 732617 View 07588 732617

Online Therapists

Photo of Alessia Vignali, Counsellor in Cheltenham, England
Alessia Vignali
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
London E8
Anxiety, Depression and Stress might be impacting your wellbeing and happiness and you would like to feel able to better manage your emotions. You might be experiencing low self-esteem, low self-worth or going through a difficult time like divorce, job-loss, bereavement, illness or a combination. Substance misuse could have ensued as a way of coping with stress or past traumatic experiences. Relationships might be impaired resulting in trust issues, conflict, infidelity. You might be experiencing sexuality issues like low sexual desire, E.D. or you might want to explore sexuality, kink, polyamorous and open relationships.
Anxiety, Depression and Stress might be impacting your wellbeing and happiness and you would like to feel able to better manage your emotions. You might be experiencing low self-esteem, low self-worth or going through a difficult time like divorce, job-loss, bereavement, illness or a combination. Substance misuse could have ensued as a way of coping with stress or past traumatic experiences. Relationships might be impaired resulting in trust issues, conflict, infidelity. You might be experiencing sexuality issues like low sexual desire, E.D. or you might want to explore sexuality, kink, polyamorous and open relationships.
020 8103 6833 View 020 8103 6833
Photo of Claire Jones Reg (Accred) Emdr Practitioner Uk And Europe, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Claire Jones Reg (Accred) Emdr Practitioner Uk And Europe
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windsor SL4
Working integratively allows me to work with your individual needs, supporting many aspects of the human experience, ranging from anxiety, depression, self-esteem, childhood trauma, addiction, communication, relationship & family difficulties.
As an experienced integrative, psychotherapist & EMDR practitioner, my work supports adult, adolescent & child clients, from a diverse range of ethnic, social & cultural backgrounds. Valuing the relationship, my friendly approach is based on trust, where working collaboratively, will enable you to come to terms with issues you are experiencing, allowing for a better understanding. Working together at your pace, I will help you clarify your thoughts & feelings (for children I use creative play), enabling you to move confidently forward, away from unwanted patterns of behaviour, to find new ways of thinking & living a fulfilling life.
Working integratively allows me to work with your individual needs, supporting many aspects of the human experience, ranging from anxiety, depression, self-esteem, childhood trauma, addiction, communication, relationship & family difficulties.
As an experienced integrative, psychotherapist & EMDR practitioner, my work supports adult, adolescent & child clients, from a diverse range of ethnic, social & cultural backgrounds. Valuing the relationship, my friendly approach is based on trust, where working collaboratively, will enable you to come to terms with issues you are experiencing, allowing for a better understanding. Working together at your pace, I will help you clarify your thoughts & feelings (for children I use creative play), enabling you to move confidently forward, away from unwanted patterns of behaviour, to find new ways of thinking & living a fulfilling life.
01753 944402 View 01753 944402
Photo of Laura Mamczur, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Laura Mamczur
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Macclesfield SK11  (Online Only)
I have 18 years experience working in mental health services both within the NHS and private sector. I am fully BABCP accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist and a registered mental health nurse (RMN). I offer specialist psychological therapy for anxiety disorders, depression, eating difficulties, O.C.D, trauma, addiction, self-injury, sleep problems, children’s behaviour, ADHD and Autistic Spectrum Conditions for adults, children and young people. All interventions offered are evidence based and recommended in the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidance.
I have 18 years experience working in mental health services both within the NHS and private sector. I am fully BABCP accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist and a registered mental health nurse (RMN). I offer specialist psychological therapy for anxiety disorders, depression, eating difficulties, O.C.D, trauma, addiction, self-injury, sleep problems, children’s behaviour, ADHD and Autistic Spectrum Conditions for adults, children and young people. All interventions offered are evidence based and recommended in the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidance.
01298 605114 View 01298 605114
Photo of Thomas Brosnan, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Thomas Brosnan
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
London W1G
I am a Psychotherapist and a Behaviour Change Expert and would like you to know that your life matters to me. I specialise in Addiction and Relationships where for over 20 years now, I have worked with Individuals of all ages, couples, families and groups in schools, the Priory and the NHS. I hold a Masters in Addiction Psychology and Counselling, a Level 4 Certificate in Counselling Children, an Advanced Diploma in Couple and Relationship Therapy and a Post Graduate Diploma in Trauma.
I am a Psychotherapist and a Behaviour Change Expert and would like you to know that your life matters to me. I specialise in Addiction and Relationships where for over 20 years now, I have worked with Individuals of all ages, couples, families and groups in schools, the Priory and the NHS. I hold a Masters in Addiction Psychology and Counselling, a Level 4 Certificate in Counselling Children, an Advanced Diploma in Couple and Relationship Therapy and a Post Graduate Diploma in Trauma.
020 8059 4365 View 020 8059 4365
Photo of Human Wellbeing Ltd, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Human Wellbeing Ltd
Psychotherapist, FHGI
Verified Verified
Bridgwater TA6
Effective, fast and practical help for anyone suffering from a range of issues including: • depression/low mood • panic attacks • phobias • low self-esteem • self-harming . eating disorders • poor concentration • relationship problems • anxiety and stress • anger problems • post-traumatic stress disorder including military (PTSD) • addiction (all kinds) • obsessions (OCD) • poor sleep
Effective, fast and practical help for anyone suffering from a range of issues including: • depression/low mood • panic attacks • phobias • low self-esteem • self-harming . eating disorders • poor concentration • relationship problems • anxiety and stress • anger problems • post-traumatic stress disorder including military (PTSD) • addiction (all kinds) • obsessions (OCD) • poor sleep
01278 393095 View 01278 393095
Photo of Sharlin Paul, Counsellor in Cheltenham, England
Sharlin Paul
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Harlow CM19
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, tired and not sure what to do or who to turn to at present? Having worked / support clients with a range of challenges I am here to help you through this challenging period. I have a vast amount of experience working with clients who have presented issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, drug & alcohol addiction, eating disorders, lack of direction in life. I have also worked within a number of organisations supporting individuals, couples and young people.
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, tired and not sure what to do or who to turn to at present? Having worked / support clients with a range of challenges I am here to help you through this challenging period. I have a vast amount of experience working with clients who have presented issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, drug & alcohol addiction, eating disorders, lack of direction in life. I have also worked within a number of organisations supporting individuals, couples and young people.
020 3974 2363 View 020 3974 2363
Photo of Kim Lewin, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Kim Lewin
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1
I work with children, teenagers and adults who have a variety of life experiences such as; anxiety, depression, DID, grief, transgender identity, trauma and addiction.
The path to healing and self knowledge can be hard. The therapeutic relationship offers a safe space to reflect on life experiences, change negative patterns and work through trauma. I am a fully qualified person centred and experiential psychotherapist , trained to MSc level and BACP registered, also holding a degree in Creative, Expressive therapies. I offer a supportive and confidential environment, where we can work together through any experiences and thought processes that you choose to bring to session. Together we will work towards self understanding and personal growth.
I work with children, teenagers and adults who have a variety of life experiences such as; anxiety, depression, DID, grief, transgender identity, trauma and addiction.
The path to healing and self knowledge can be hard. The therapeutic relationship offers a safe space to reflect on life experiences, change negative patterns and work through trauma. I am a fully qualified person centred and experiential psychotherapist , trained to MSc level and BACP registered, also holding a degree in Creative, Expressive therapies. I offer a supportive and confidential environment, where we can work together through any experiences and thought processes that you choose to bring to session. Together we will work towards self understanding and personal growth.
0115 647 7340 View 0115 647 7340
Photo of Melisa Adams, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Melisa Adams
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
London NW1  (Online Only)
I help individuals with a wide range of issues, I work with addiction (gambling, porn, spending, internet, drugs, and alcohol).
We are told how important exercise is for our physical well-being, your mental health is no different. Mental health and physical health are interconnected. Stress, anxiety, and depression can manifest as physical symptoms. So, maintaining good mental health can positively influence physical health. Therapy changes lives and for that reason, if you are unhappy, stressed, and not sure what to do, you need to remember that life is short, and you deserve to live the life you want. Put yourself first and do what makes you happy! I will help you become your own therapist, providing you with healthy tools and support tailored for you.
I help individuals with a wide range of issues, I work with addiction (gambling, porn, spending, internet, drugs, and alcohol).
We are told how important exercise is for our physical well-being, your mental health is no different. Mental health and physical health are interconnected. Stress, anxiety, and depression can manifest as physical symptoms. So, maintaining good mental health can positively influence physical health. Therapy changes lives and for that reason, if you are unhappy, stressed, and not sure what to do, you need to remember that life is short, and you deserve to live the life you want. Put yourself first and do what makes you happy! I will help you become your own therapist, providing you with healthy tools and support tailored for you.
01302 490114 View 01302 490114
Photo of Dr Sonia Borghino, Psychologist in Cheltenham, England
Dr Sonia Borghino
Psychologist, MSc, CPsychol
Verified Verified
London SW5
I use Neurofeedback (EGG Biofeedback) to promote well-being and a person's ability to cope and for a variety of symptoms including insomnia, addiction, ADHD, PTSD, Autism and more.
I am a licensed Psychologist registered with the BPS and HCPC. I worked in a clinical setting for over 22 years with a variety of client groups including community, outpatients and inpatients hospital. I have worked extensively with clients with mental disorders and neuro-developmental conditions even when these are strongly affected by childhood trauma. I offer talking therapy and also a unique approach to health and wellness including EMDR, neurofeedback an body biofeedback technology to help the body and the brain to better self-regulate and heal naturally without medication or with less reliance on medication.
I use Neurofeedback (EGG Biofeedback) to promote well-being and a person's ability to cope and for a variety of symptoms including insomnia, addiction, ADHD, PTSD, Autism and more.
I am a licensed Psychologist registered with the BPS and HCPC. I worked in a clinical setting for over 22 years with a variety of client groups including community, outpatients and inpatients hospital. I have worked extensively with clients with mental disorders and neuro-developmental conditions even when these are strongly affected by childhood trauma. I offer talking therapy and also a unique approach to health and wellness including EMDR, neurofeedback an body biofeedback technology to help the body and the brain to better self-regulate and heal naturally without medication or with less reliance on medication.
020 3893 2192 View 020 3893 2192
Photo of Jonathan Emeruwa, Counsellor in Cheltenham, England
Jonathan Emeruwa
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Harrow HA1
Are you experiencing feelings of loneliness, anxiety, depression or hopelessness? Going through relationship difficulties or missing your loved ones? Painful traumatic past memories? Struggling with an addiction? Life lost it's purpose and meaning? Are you feeling ready for change and to work through personal problems in order to develop greater self insight.
Are you experiencing feelings of loneliness, anxiety, depression or hopelessness? Going through relationship difficulties or missing your loved ones? Painful traumatic past memories? Struggling with an addiction? Life lost it's purpose and meaning? Are you feeling ready for change and to work through personal problems in order to develop greater self insight.
020 4538 3625 View 020 4538 3625
Photo of Paula Jane Bantick-Ward, Counsellor in Cheltenham, England
Paula Jane Bantick-Ward
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bishop's Stortford CM23
I have covered all types of issues from addiction, depression, suicidal thoughts, abuse, gender identification, marital problems, sexual issues, divorce, low self-esteem, rape, abuse, bereavement and a wide range of other problems.
Hello I am Paula and my aim is to make professional counselling accessible, affordable and convenient - so anyone who struggles with life's challenges can get help. Depression, anxiety, stress, overwhelmed are words we all hear on a daily basis when generally chatting to family, friends or work colleagues . Counselling can help us cope with those over consuming feelings. Sadly we cannot avoid trauma happening but seeking help during the trauma or even months, years later may reduce risk to further illnesses that have been linked to psychological trauma. Are you in an abusive relationship or having issues as a couple?
I have covered all types of issues from addiction, depression, suicidal thoughts, abuse, gender identification, marital problems, sexual issues, divorce, low self-esteem, rape, abuse, bereavement and a wide range of other problems.
Hello I am Paula and my aim is to make professional counselling accessible, affordable and convenient - so anyone who struggles with life's challenges can get help. Depression, anxiety, stress, overwhelmed are words we all hear on a daily basis when generally chatting to family, friends or work colleagues . Counselling can help us cope with those over consuming feelings. Sadly we cannot avoid trauma happening but seeking help during the trauma or even months, years later may reduce risk to further illnesses that have been linked to psychological trauma. Are you in an abusive relationship or having issues as a couple?
07480 534624 View 07480 534624
Photo of Madi Strong, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Madi Strong
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
London W1G
Having started as a counsellor and addiction therapist qualifying as a psychotherapist in 2007.
Hi I'm Madi, a psychotherapist with 30+ years of clinical experience, . I have a strong relational focus which draws from attachment and psychodynamic perspectives. I am comfortable with talk based approaches and as a trained arts therapist I know the unique power of engaging creativity and imagination to overcome life’s challenges. Therapy can feel daunting but there are also moments of connection spontaneity and even joy . At the heart of my work lies the privilege of working alongside my clients, supporting them to attain their goals, and find a measure of peace, wellbeing and fulfilment that is life changing.
Having started as a counsellor and addiction therapist qualifying as a psychotherapist in 2007.
Hi I'm Madi, a psychotherapist with 30+ years of clinical experience, . I have a strong relational focus which draws from attachment and psychodynamic perspectives. I am comfortable with talk based approaches and as a trained arts therapist I know the unique power of engaging creativity and imagination to overcome life’s challenges. Therapy can feel daunting but there are also moments of connection spontaneity and even joy . At the heart of my work lies the privilege of working alongside my clients, supporting them to attain their goals, and find a measure of peace, wellbeing and fulfilment that is life changing.
020 3835 3858 View 020 3835 3858
Photo of Stephen Gallini, Counsellor in Cheltenham, England
Stephen Gallini
Counsellor, MA, HCPC-Music Therap.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS2
I am an integrative counsellor, HCPC registered Music Therapist and Neurologic Music Therapist, with a MSc in Psychology of Pathological addictions, and further training, amongst others, in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Metacognitive Therapy. Currently, I'm finalizing my MSc in Clinical Psychology. Within a holistic person-centred approach, I include in my practice techniques based on mindfulness and breathwork, and, as a Registered Nurse, I bring a well-rounded understanding of health and patient care into my practice.
I am an integrative counsellor, HCPC registered Music Therapist and Neurologic Music Therapist, with a MSc in Psychology of Pathological addictions, and further training, amongst others, in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Metacognitive Therapy. Currently, I'm finalizing my MSc in Clinical Psychology. Within a holistic person-centred approach, I include in my practice techniques based on mindfulness and breathwork, and, as a Registered Nurse, I bring a well-rounded understanding of health and patient care into my practice.
0117 456 2147 View 0117 456 2147
Photo of Lorraine Diston, Counsellor in Cheltenham, England
Lorraine Diston
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Stevenage SG1
Adult and Child centred interventions underpinned by trauma informed practice. Hello...My name is Lorraine Diston, I am a post graduate Person-Centred counsellor and Play therapist with a specialism of working with trauma, abuse and bereavement. I work with children and young people through the medium of play and creativity as well as adults and families experiencing difficult feelings and discord. I provide freelance counselling services to schools, colleges and charities.
Adult and Child centred interventions underpinned by trauma informed practice. Hello...My name is Lorraine Diston, I am a post graduate Person-Centred counsellor and Play therapist with a specialism of working with trauma, abuse and bereavement. I work with children and young people through the medium of play and creativity as well as adults and families experiencing difficult feelings and discord. I provide freelance counselling services to schools, colleges and charities.
01438 904190 View 01438 904190
Photo of Dr Danielle Baillieu, Psychologist in Cheltenham, England
Dr Danielle Baillieu
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
London N3
While I work mainly in an existential and phenomenological way I also use a range of techniques, including CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness, FLASH and Brainspotting. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for adults, children, couples and families where we can work on understanding the situation you are in and how to make changes in your life. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression or coping with bereavement, therapy will be tailor-made for your situation. I work with neurotypical and neurodiverse clients struggling with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, self-harm or bullying.
While I work mainly in an existential and phenomenological way I also use a range of techniques, including CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness, FLASH and Brainspotting. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for adults, children, couples and families where we can work on understanding the situation you are in and how to make changes in your life. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression or coping with bereavement, therapy will be tailor-made for your situation. I work with neurotypical and neurodiverse clients struggling with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, self-harm or bullying.
07903 936379 View 07903 936379
Photo of Theresa Dubicka-Keen, Counsellor in Cheltenham, England
Theresa Dubicka-Keen
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sutton Coldfield B75
Providing psychotherapy is my passion and I cover a wide range of issues namely- All Abuse, ADD / ADHD, Addictions, AIDS/HIV, Anger management, Anxiety, Asperger syndrome, Bereavement, Cancer, Child related issues, Chronic fatigue syndrome / ME, Cultural issues, Depression, Disability, Eating disorders, Health related issues, Identity issues, Infertility, Loss, Men's issues, Obsessions, OCD, Phobias, Post-traumatic stress, Pregnancy related issues, Redundancy, Relationships, Self esteem, Self-harm, Sex-related issues, Sexual identity, Sexuality, Spirituality, Stress, Trauma, Women's issues, Work related issues.
Providing psychotherapy is my passion and I cover a wide range of issues namely- All Abuse, ADD / ADHD, Addictions, AIDS/HIV, Anger management, Anxiety, Asperger syndrome, Bereavement, Cancer, Child related issues, Chronic fatigue syndrome / ME, Cultural issues, Depression, Disability, Eating disorders, Health related issues, Identity issues, Infertility, Loss, Men's issues, Obsessions, OCD, Phobias, Post-traumatic stress, Pregnancy related issues, Redundancy, Relationships, Self esteem, Self-harm, Sex-related issues, Sexual identity, Sexuality, Spirituality, Stress, Trauma, Women's issues, Work related issues.
01827 214705 View 01827 214705
Photo of Dr Joanna Saddington, Psychologist in Cheltenham, England
Dr Joanna Saddington
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Stafford ST19
Hello, my name is Dr Joanna Saddington. I qualified as a Clinical Psychologist in 2006. Before setting up in private practice I worked in the NHS for 18 years. I am passionate about helping adults, young people, children and families overcome their difficulties. We all know life can be challenging, so it doesn't matter whether a problem is longstanding or is more recent. What is important, is that we work together to try to solve it. I always aim to work in a way that suits the individual and their needs, as well as aiming to deliver therapy empathetically and without judgment.
Hello, my name is Dr Joanna Saddington. I qualified as a Clinical Psychologist in 2006. Before setting up in private practice I worked in the NHS for 18 years. I am passionate about helping adults, young people, children and families overcome their difficulties. We all know life can be challenging, so it doesn't matter whether a problem is longstanding or is more recent. What is important, is that we work together to try to solve it. I always aim to work in a way that suits the individual and their needs, as well as aiming to deliver therapy empathetically and without judgment.
01543 220373 View 01543 220373
Photo of Questa Psychological Services, Psychologist in Cheltenham, England
Questa Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsychD, AFBPSsS
Verified Verified
Southampton SO16
Questa is a small, specialist practice; we provide a range of psychological services for children and adults, both clinical and educational. In addition to therapy, we are experts in Autism and ADHD assessment/diagnosis. We offer therapy and support for a range of emotional problems for children, teenagers and adults and are specialists in anxiety, depression and trauma, providing therapy to emergency services personnel. Do call or email us today to discuss how we may be able to support you. We can usually help, but if we can't, then we’ll do our very best to offer advice and signposting.
Questa is a small, specialist practice; we provide a range of psychological services for children and adults, both clinical and educational. In addition to therapy, we are experts in Autism and ADHD assessment/diagnosis. We offer therapy and support for a range of emotional problems for children, teenagers and adults and are specialists in anxiety, depression and trauma, providing therapy to emergency services personnel. Do call or email us today to discuss how we may be able to support you. We can usually help, but if we can't, then we’ll do our very best to offer advice and signposting.
023 8192 4877 View 023 8192 4877

See more therapy options for Cheltenham

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.