Counselling in England
Jon Knowles
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Birmingham B46
I have worked with individuals struggling with addiction for a number of years and fully understand the many issues that cause addiction and those that develop because of addiction.
Do you have issues, dilemmas or situations that you are struggling to deal with or come to terms with? I'm a fully qualified Person Centered Counsellor/Psychotherapist. I have dealt with a multitude of varying difficult issues, I've counselled many individuals looking to overcome their problems of the past and present, and build a much more fulfilling life. I am fully aware of how issues such as depression, anxiety, bereavement, addiction issues, low self-esteem and confidence and what caused them, can have a real impact on your day to day life. You will have a confidential, safe and empathetic space, you will be truly listened to
I have worked with individuals struggling with addiction for a number of years and fully understand the many issues that cause addiction and those that develop because of addiction.
Do you have issues, dilemmas or situations that you are struggling to deal with or come to terms with? I'm a fully qualified Person Centered Counsellor/Psychotherapist. I have dealt with a multitude of varying difficult issues, I've counselled many individuals looking to overcome their problems of the past and present, and build a much more fulfilling life. I am fully aware of how issues such as depression, anxiety, bereavement, addiction issues, low self-esteem and confidence and what caused them, can have a real impact on your day to day life. You will have a confidential, safe and empathetic space, you will be truly listened to
Be Better Counselling
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Wigan WN3
I work with clients who are experiencing a broad spectrum of issues from depression and anxiety to addiction.
As a fully-qualified and experienced counsellor, I take a holistic approach to person centred therapy. I believe firmly in the importance of building up a strong relationship with my clients in order to improve their self-esteem and empower them to make the necessary changes in their lives. Offering a non-judgemental and approachable listening ear, it’s my mission to help those who need it most, especially those who have already had a negative experience of counselling, I practice in a safe, welcoming and comfortable environment.
I work with clients who are experiencing a broad spectrum of issues from depression and anxiety to addiction.
As a fully-qualified and experienced counsellor, I take a holistic approach to person centred therapy. I believe firmly in the importance of building up a strong relationship with my clients in order to improve their self-esteem and empower them to make the necessary changes in their lives. Offering a non-judgemental and approachable listening ear, it’s my mission to help those who need it most, especially those who have already had a negative experience of counselling, I practice in a safe, welcoming and comfortable environment.
CBT for Healthy Minds ( Caroline Bottrill )
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Sutton Coldfield B74
I'm a professional and caring Psychotherapist with 15 years experience of helping my clients overcome depression, anxiety and trauma. If you are feeling anxious, fearful, low or alone, please do not suffer in silence, as my services can provide you with a helping hand. I treat all mental health problems. I have spent 15 years working with GP practices offering private therapy services to their patients . I provide alcohol and drug addiction rehabilitation programmes. I provide programmes for eating disorder recovery . I specialise in binge eating disorder and provide recovery programmes . I offer weight management programmes .
I'm a professional and caring Psychotherapist with 15 years experience of helping my clients overcome depression, anxiety and trauma. If you are feeling anxious, fearful, low or alone, please do not suffer in silence, as my services can provide you with a helping hand. I treat all mental health problems. I have spent 15 years working with GP practices offering private therapy services to their patients . I provide alcohol and drug addiction rehabilitation programmes. I provide programmes for eating disorder recovery . I specialise in binge eating disorder and provide recovery programmes . I offer weight management programmes .
Dr Trevor Landry
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Preston PR1
Like so many, I have suffered a great deal of loss, pain and anxiety in my life. This has inspired me to learn how best to support others who may also be struggling and for the last 20 years I have dedicated my life to developing my skills in Clinical Psychology to enhance my capacity to serve and support my clients. I have worked with and learned from so many people over the years, accross many contexts including; homelessness, mental health, addiction and with chronic health difficulties. I am an experienced and qualified Clinical Psychologist available to provide you with compassionate clinical care.
Like so many, I have suffered a great deal of loss, pain and anxiety in my life. This has inspired me to learn how best to support others who may also be struggling and for the last 20 years I have dedicated my life to developing my skills in Clinical Psychology to enhance my capacity to serve and support my clients. I have worked with and learned from so many people over the years, accross many contexts including; homelessness, mental health, addiction and with chronic health difficulties. I am an experienced and qualified Clinical Psychologist available to provide you with compassionate clinical care.
Helen Stephens
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tilbury RM18
If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, low self esteem, relationships with others, feeling isolated or alone in relationships, feeling never ‘good enough’ or battling with addiction this could be due to your attachment pattern. How we view ourself in relation to others and the world around us affects us in everyday life. I am a qualified BA (hons) Integrative Counsellor. This means I draw from different theories such as Humanistic, CBT and Psychodynamic including attachment, which enables me to tailor every session specifically for each individual. I have many years experience working for the NHS and in private practice.
If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, low self esteem, relationships with others, feeling isolated or alone in relationships, feeling never ‘good enough’ or battling with addiction this could be due to your attachment pattern. How we view ourself in relation to others and the world around us affects us in everyday life. I am a qualified BA (hons) Integrative Counsellor. This means I draw from different theories such as Humanistic, CBT and Psychodynamic including attachment, which enables me to tailor every session specifically for each individual. I have many years experience working for the NHS and in private practice.
Dr Mihaela Zdrali
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Weybridge KT13
I have over 15 years experience as an addiction specialist, working in NHS and private sector.
Today, more and more people are faced with overwhelming stress, in their relationships, at work and in their personal circumstances. However more and more people are becoming aware and motivated to take steps towards a more fulfilled and happy life. If you feel worried or depressed in your present situation and/or stuck and unhappy in your relationship, talking to a therapist may be the best choice you make. Therapy offers a safe and confidential space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings, get support, understanding and professional guidance towards a resolution and peace of mind.
I have over 15 years experience as an addiction specialist, working in NHS and private sector.
Today, more and more people are faced with overwhelming stress, in their relationships, at work and in their personal circumstances. However more and more people are becoming aware and motivated to take steps towards a more fulfilled and happy life. If you feel worried or depressed in your present situation and/or stuck and unhappy in your relationship, talking to a therapist may be the best choice you make. Therapy offers a safe and confidential space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings, get support, understanding and professional guidance towards a resolution and peace of mind.
Equine Enlightenment Psychological Services
Psychologist, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Buckingham MK18 (Online Only)
This could be understood as complex trauma, complex PTSD, PTSD, ongoing or prolonged stressful/ traumatic or abusive events or a one off event, along with DID, self harm, sucicidality, addiction and Borderline/ Emotionally Unstable Personality disorders.
Currently sessions are available online only. We are able to offer both short and long term therapy for a broad range of needs and goals. We can work together once weekly or more, for an hour or more, alternative weeks/ monthly and one off sessions. We tailor the therapy to your individual needs and goals, combining a structured professional approach that will feel comfortable and safe. As a team of psychologists, psychotherapists and counsellors, we can offer a range of psychological approaches and evidence based therapy to support your healing. Click here to book: https://connect-bacp.wellola.com/organisation/728/bookingform
This could be understood as complex trauma, complex PTSD, PTSD, ongoing or prolonged stressful/ traumatic or abusive events or a one off event, along with DID, self harm, sucicidality, addiction and Borderline/ Emotionally Unstable Personality disorders.
Currently sessions are available online only. We are able to offer both short and long term therapy for a broad range of needs and goals. We can work together once weekly or more, for an hour or more, alternative weeks/ monthly and one off sessions. We tailor the therapy to your individual needs and goals, combining a structured professional approach that will feel comfortable and safe. As a team of psychologists, psychotherapists and counsellors, we can offer a range of psychological approaches and evidence based therapy to support your healing. Click here to book: https://connect-bacp.wellola.com/organisation/728/bookingform
Opal Therapies
Verified Verified
Mistley CO11
I'm experianced in working with those effected by Addiction and Domestic Violence & recognise that you & your circumstances are unique & will treat you so.
I believe that we are a product of our pasts but that does not define who we are today. With belief in our capacity to change, and integration of mind and body I will support you to live the life you want today. I will endevour to work openly, truthfully and consistantly with you to overcome the problems that you are experiancing, to find easier ways of coping so you can ultimatly live a satisfying fulfilling life. I also offer Auricular Acupuncture & Reiki which can be combined with counselling, each other or alone. These both help release painful emotions indirectly, and mentally prepare you for counselling.
I'm experianced in working with those effected by Addiction and Domestic Violence & recognise that you & your circumstances are unique & will treat you so.
I believe that we are a product of our pasts but that does not define who we are today. With belief in our capacity to change, and integration of mind and body I will support you to live the life you want today. I will endevour to work openly, truthfully and consistantly with you to overcome the problems that you are experiancing, to find easier ways of coping so you can ultimatly live a satisfying fulfilling life. I also offer Auricular Acupuncture & Reiki which can be combined with counselling, each other or alone. These both help release painful emotions indirectly, and mentally prepare you for counselling.
CAPSYR Counselling
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
London N15
Specialities: Relapse Prevention, Dual Diagnosis ( mental health problems and addiction), Codependency, Cultural issues, Trauma, Abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Bereavement, Isolation, Self-esteem issues, relationships/families problems.
Hi, welcome to CAPSYR Counselling. This is a face to face counselling and groups support. I have over 11 years experience in providing counselling and psychotherapy to help individuals to manage and cope with problems or challenges such as recovering from Addictions, Mental Health, Trauma, Abuse from childhood, Stress, PTSD, Bereavement; Loss of a Job; Change of Career; Return to Work. If you are experiencing any of these challenges or you are close to someone who is suffering from addiction problems, mental health and/or abuse and you don't know how to deal with it, please, do not hesitate to contact me. RegisteredMBPS
Specialities: Relapse Prevention, Dual Diagnosis ( mental health problems and addiction), Codependency, Cultural issues, Trauma, Abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Bereavement, Isolation, Self-esteem issues, relationships/families problems.
Hi, welcome to CAPSYR Counselling. This is a face to face counselling and groups support. I have over 11 years experience in providing counselling and psychotherapy to help individuals to manage and cope with problems or challenges such as recovering from Addictions, Mental Health, Trauma, Abuse from childhood, Stress, PTSD, Bereavement; Loss of a Job; Change of Career; Return to Work. If you are experiencing any of these challenges or you are close to someone who is suffering from addiction problems, mental health and/or abuse and you don't know how to deal with it, please, do not hesitate to contact me. RegisteredMBPS
Linda Kathryn Berkeley
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Lambourn RG17
Depression, all anxieties, OCD, trauma, substance-misuse, trichotillomania/BFRBs, trust issues, personality issues, fear, and anything else you bring to therapy.
You are the expert on yourself an only you can decide what might work for you. We will form a plan together, perhaps over the course of two to three sessions, of how we can proceed, and what we collaboratively believe is going on for you. You will find my practice is based on a humanistic, integrative, pluralistic blending of possibilities from several frameworks, including CBT, Gestalt, Compassion Focused Therapy, ideas from psychodynamic practice, with a person-centred, humanistic core.
Depression, all anxieties, OCD, trauma, substance-misuse, trichotillomania/BFRBs, trust issues, personality issues, fear, and anything else you bring to therapy.
You are the expert on yourself an only you can decide what might work for you. We will form a plan together, perhaps over the course of two to three sessions, of how we can proceed, and what we collaboratively believe is going on for you. You will find my practice is based on a humanistic, integrative, pluralistic blending of possibilities from several frameworks, including CBT, Gestalt, Compassion Focused Therapy, ideas from psychodynamic practice, with a person-centred, humanistic core.
Joanne Lindsay
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Taunton TA1
I also offer Hypnotherapy and Holistic therapies, so that I can help you think not only about your mind but body & spirit too if you want to? As well as working in Private practice; since 2010, I have worked in the field of Substance misuse and addictions, as a counsellor and Recovery Worker.
Hi, I'm Jo and thank you for taking the time to stop by my profile. So you've decided to take what feels like a scary yet very important step towards making a difference in your life and are looking for the right help with this - yes? Finding a safe, trustworthy and comfortable place is so important when it comes to therapy and I strive to offer this, either in my therapy room, via video link or over the phone, so that you can get help where ever you are. I'm trained in a variety of Counselling Theories so we can make the therapy fit you, rather than to try to fit you in to a 'therapy box' of one theory fits all.
I also offer Hypnotherapy and Holistic therapies, so that I can help you think not only about your mind but body & spirit too if you want to? As well as working in Private practice; since 2010, I have worked in the field of Substance misuse and addictions, as a counsellor and Recovery Worker.
Hi, I'm Jo and thank you for taking the time to stop by my profile. So you've decided to take what feels like a scary yet very important step towards making a difference in your life and are looking for the right help with this - yes? Finding a safe, trustworthy and comfortable place is so important when it comes to therapy and I strive to offer this, either in my therapy room, via video link or over the phone, so that you can get help where ever you are. I'm trained in a variety of Counselling Theories so we can make the therapy fit you, rather than to try to fit you in to a 'therapy box' of one theory fits all.
15 Second Videos
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Linda Kathryn Berkeley
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Diane Rodin Mba
Helen Marie Yates
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Yordan K. Zhekov
The Clinic of Counselling and Hypnotherapy
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Nick Peterson
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The AoC Trust / The Arts of Change Trust
London Counselling & Psychotherapy Services
GreenWood Mentors
Daksha Hirani
Joanna Baker
Carolyn Clark
The Salisbury Practice Ltd
Cristian A Nica
Bishnu Upadhaya
Grace McIntyre
NOW Therapy | Angela DePastino
Cristian A Nica
Letizia De Mori
Aimee Shelley
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Eastbourne BN22
I have experience in working in a variety of different areas including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, family issues, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, bereavement.
Hi I’m Aimee, I embrace a warm, open, empathetic and non-judgmental attitude within a trusting therapeutic relationship promoting growth and change. I respect and value each persons individuality and offer a confidential, calm and safe space in which you are empowered to explore your own feelings and emotions. Working together through anything that is troubling you leading to therapeutic change, with a goal to moving towards a more positive future and self-understanding.
I have experience in working in a variety of different areas including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, family issues, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, bereavement.
Hi I’m Aimee, I embrace a warm, open, empathetic and non-judgmental attitude within a trusting therapeutic relationship promoting growth and change. I respect and value each persons individuality and offer a confidential, calm and safe space in which you are empowered to explore your own feelings and emotions. Working together through anything that is troubling you leading to therapeutic change, with a goal to moving towards a more positive future and self-understanding.
Jasmine Patel
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Leicester LE8 (Online Only)
I’m a Counselling Psychologist with a wide range of experience in a variety of healthcare settings such as the NHS, Charities & Private Hospitals. I have extensive experience working in both primary and secondary care settings including Secondary Schools, Universities, Drug & Alcohol Services, Trauma Services and in Forensic Settings. I have experience working with young people and adults presenting with a wide range of difficulties such as depression, anxiety, eating disorder, personality disorder, drug addiction and relationship difficulties. I offer individual, group, family & couples therapy.
I’m a Counselling Psychologist with a wide range of experience in a variety of healthcare settings such as the NHS, Charities & Private Hospitals. I have extensive experience working in both primary and secondary care settings including Secondary Schools, Universities, Drug & Alcohol Services, Trauma Services and in Forensic Settings. I have experience working with young people and adults presenting with a wide range of difficulties such as depression, anxiety, eating disorder, personality disorder, drug addiction and relationship difficulties. I offer individual, group, family & couples therapy.
Jeffrey Martin Cockfield
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Deal CT14
I was trained as an Integrative Therapist, initially working with individuals and families struggling with addiction, depression and eating disorders.
I offer Counselling and Therapy for a range of issues including: Anxiety, Depression, Alcohol, Drugs, Relationship/Sexual issues, Gambling, Anger Management, Divorce and Separation, Bereavement: Grief and Loss, Low Self-esteem, Eating Disorders, Co-Dependency, Prescription Drug dependency, Internet Addiction, Compulsive Shopping, Shame & Guilt issues. I also offer Recovery Coaching and mentoring. I provide counselling support and advice to families and employers where a loved-one or valued employee is struggling. I have been working in counselling and advisory roles for over twenty years. I have a wide range of experience of working with people from diverse backgrounds, covering many different faiths and belief systems.
I was trained as an Integrative Therapist, initially working with individuals and families struggling with addiction, depression and eating disorders.
I offer Counselling and Therapy for a range of issues including: Anxiety, Depression, Alcohol, Drugs, Relationship/Sexual issues, Gambling, Anger Management, Divorce and Separation, Bereavement: Grief and Loss, Low Self-esteem, Eating Disorders, Co-Dependency, Prescription Drug dependency, Internet Addiction, Compulsive Shopping, Shame & Guilt issues. I also offer Recovery Coaching and mentoring. I provide counselling support and advice to families and employers where a loved-one or valued employee is struggling. I have been working in counselling and advisory roles for over twenty years. I have a wide range of experience of working with people from diverse backgrounds, covering many different faiths and belief systems.
SR Inspiration CBT Practitioner
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Retford DN22
This therapist prefers to be identified as CBT Practitioner. I aim to work emphatically and collaboratively engage the client. If you are experiencing the following : Addiction, Anger Management, Anxiety, Abuse , Bereavement, Depression, Marriage or Relationship breakdown, PTSD, Self-Esteem, Stress , and Eating disorders call this practitioner for help. Don't leave it too late. My therapeutic approach using CBT model provides a short-term, goal focused and highly structured approach to therapeutic Assessment, Stabilisation, Planning, Intervention, Resilience and Evaluation. Call now for help. Do not leave it too late.
This therapist prefers to be identified as CBT Practitioner. I aim to work emphatically and collaboratively engage the client. If you are experiencing the following : Addiction, Anger Management, Anxiety, Abuse , Bereavement, Depression, Marriage or Relationship breakdown, PTSD, Self-Esteem, Stress , and Eating disorders call this practitioner for help. Don't leave it too late. My therapeutic approach using CBT model provides a short-term, goal focused and highly structured approach to therapeutic Assessment, Stabilisation, Planning, Intervention, Resilience and Evaluation. Call now for help. Do not leave it too late.
Stephanie Helen Witt
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Westcliff-on-Sea SS0
The areas in which I specialise in are working with bereavement, stress and anxiety, relationships and couples therapy, trauma, depression, addiction, marital issues, pregnancy, family issues, divorce and adjusting to big life changes.
When entering into Personal Counselling or Couple's Counselling with me you can expect a warm and welcoming environment. I am extremely down to earth and honest and see the relationship I have with my clients as central to everything I do. Therapy has the potential to heal and help you to become more in control of the life you aspire to lead. Counselling sessions offer a unique opportunity for you to better understand your predicament and begin to process and feel difficult emotions, in order to move forward and experience personal growth. I feel privileged to get to know each client I work with and watch them flourish over time.
The areas in which I specialise in are working with bereavement, stress and anxiety, relationships and couples therapy, trauma, depression, addiction, marital issues, pregnancy, family issues, divorce and adjusting to big life changes.
When entering into Personal Counselling or Couple's Counselling with me you can expect a warm and welcoming environment. I am extremely down to earth and honest and see the relationship I have with my clients as central to everything I do. Therapy has the potential to heal and help you to become more in control of the life you aspire to lead. Counselling sessions offer a unique opportunity for you to better understand your predicament and begin to process and feel difficult emotions, in order to move forward and experience personal growth. I feel privileged to get to know each client I work with and watch them flourish over time.
Tyler Clarke
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
London N8 (Online Only)
I am a Counselling Psychologist in Doctoral training with previous experience in CBT and humanistic counselling. I currently work from a psychodynamic and integrative standpoint. I believe that transformation can occur through a trusting therapeutic alliance which encourages a collaborative space to work with an individual’s unique aims and concerns for a more enriched life. I have experience across many forms of mental health issues, and currently work in addiction and trauma, alongside working with individuals who are experiencing high levels of anxiety.
I am a Counselling Psychologist in Doctoral training with previous experience in CBT and humanistic counselling. I currently work from a psychodynamic and integrative standpoint. I believe that transformation can occur through a trusting therapeutic alliance which encourages a collaborative space to work with an individual’s unique aims and concerns for a more enriched life. I have experience across many forms of mental health issues, and currently work in addiction and trauma, alongside working with individuals who are experiencing high levels of anxiety.
Nurjis Ahmed
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Sale M33
I specialise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy focussing on Children, Adolescents and Adults. My experience has allowed me to help people who have suffered from a wide range of mental health conditions including eating disorders, self harm, substance abuse, gambling, depression, phobias and trauma.
I specialise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy focussing on Children, Adolescents and Adults. My experience has allowed me to help people who have suffered from a wide range of mental health conditions including eating disorders, self harm, substance abuse, gambling, depression, phobias and trauma.
Diverse Wellbeing Services Ltd
Psychotherapist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Rochdale OL11
My area of expertise in Anxiety, Depression and Post Traumatic disorders, Narcissistic Personality disorder, Sexual abuse, Domestic violence, Eating disorders couples and relationship issues, Sexual addiction and Psycho-sexual disorders.
As a specialist psychologist and psychotherapist, I work with the National Health Services UK, focusing on services for adults with autism/ADHD, PTSD, couples, psychosexual therapy, and psychological therapy for comorbid mental health conditions. I am deeply interested in the efficacy of psychological therapies for these groups and the necessary adaptations in therapy. My extensive experience in assessment, formulation, and clinical management allows me to contribute to service development, supervision, safeguarding, and the creation of innovative client engagement methods in therapy.
My area of expertise in Anxiety, Depression and Post Traumatic disorders, Narcissistic Personality disorder, Sexual abuse, Domestic violence, Eating disorders couples and relationship issues, Sexual addiction and Psycho-sexual disorders.
As a specialist psychologist and psychotherapist, I work with the National Health Services UK, focusing on services for adults with autism/ADHD, PTSD, couples, psychosexual therapy, and psychological therapy for comorbid mental health conditions. I am deeply interested in the efficacy of psychological therapies for these groups and the necessary adaptations in therapy. My extensive experience in assessment, formulation, and clinical management allows me to contribute to service development, supervision, safeguarding, and the creation of innovative client engagement methods in therapy.
Rebecca Turner
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
London N3
I have worked with clients suffering from anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, addiction, bereavement and relationship difficulties.
My clients come from a diverse range of backgrounds. Every person is an individual and therefore my counselling work will be specific to their needs. My goal is to help clients to work through their difficulties and find solutions and strategies to deal with their problems. My role is to hold up a mirror to a person, in order for them to better understand their situation and work through this in a non-judgemental, confidential and empathetic environment.
I have worked with clients suffering from anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, addiction, bereavement and relationship difficulties.
My clients come from a diverse range of backgrounds. Every person is an individual and therefore my counselling work will be specific to their needs. My goal is to help clients to work through their difficulties and find solutions and strategies to deal with their problems. My role is to hold up a mirror to a person, in order for them to better understand their situation and work through this in a non-judgemental, confidential and empathetic environment.
See more therapy options for England
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.