Photo of Lee Martin Mbacp(Sen Accred) Emdr(Accred) Ma Ba(Hons) Pg-Dip, Psychotherapist in England
Lee Martin Mbacp(Sen Accred) Emdr(Accred) Ma Ba(Hons) Pg-Dip
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
London W1J  (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome, Life has indeed become complex. Many of us are now struggling with our mental health in ways that are no longer manageable. Our past and present hurts, our unprocessed feelings have risen to the surface. We find ourselves thinking, feeling and acting in ways that do not reflect who we want to be. Some of us have Grief, Trauma or Addiction that we just can’t seem to work through. As a Senior Accredited Psychotherapist with a Master Degree and EMDR Accredited, I've seen thousands come through my door, with various presenting issues and undergo genuine transformation, healing and leave with hope for the future.
Hello and Welcome, Life has indeed become complex. Many of us are now struggling with our mental health in ways that are no longer manageable. Our past and present hurts, our unprocessed feelings have risen to the surface. We find ourselves thinking, feeling and acting in ways that do not reflect who we want to be. Some of us have Grief, Trauma or Addiction that we just can’t seem to work through. As a Senior Accredited Psychotherapist with a Master Degree and EMDR Accredited, I've seen thousands come through my door, with various presenting issues and undergo genuine transformation, healing and leave with hope for the future.
01494 326461 View 01494 326461
Photo of Sara Jane Witter, Counsellor in England
Sara Jane Witter
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
With experience working with stress/anxiety/depression/trauma/addiction/complex mental health/common life problems/relationship breakdowns/bereavement - it is never too late to change; to heal.
You may have searched for a therapist without really knowing why - you may just feel you need something/someone? You may even feel overwhelmed. Life can feel so challenging; I can help you uncover your feelings and emotions to really understand what you feel you need/want from yourself and your life right now. To work with you to help you make sense of yourself; your emotions & your past; your pain/fears/grief/trauma/anxiety. I believe, that in even the most terrifying times, together we can work through them to promote therapeutic change, healing, growth & acceptance. To help make life feel that bit easier, I'm in your corner.
With experience working with stress/anxiety/depression/trauma/addiction/complex mental health/common life problems/relationship breakdowns/bereavement - it is never too late to change; to heal.
You may have searched for a therapist without really knowing why - you may just feel you need something/someone? You may even feel overwhelmed. Life can feel so challenging; I can help you uncover your feelings and emotions to really understand what you feel you need/want from yourself and your life right now. To work with you to help you make sense of yourself; your emotions & your past; your pain/fears/grief/trauma/anxiety. I believe, that in even the most terrifying times, together we can work through them to promote therapeutic change, healing, growth & acceptance. To help make life feel that bit easier, I'm in your corner.
01253 542464 View 01253 542464
Photo of Laurence Baretto de Souza, Psychotherapist in England
Laurence Baretto de Souza
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Seaford BN25
I worked as a Therapist at the Priory (now Elysium Healthcare) for 5 years and have worked at Brighton Housing Trust in their Addiction Recovery Therapeutic Community for 9 years.
We all go through some difficulties in life. Asking for help can be difficult , finding the right support can be even more of a challenge. As an Integrative Therapist, I use different modalities to fit my clients' needs, learning curves and communications styles, personalities and states of mind. I also adapt to fit my clients' physical health, integrating body and mind work within the process of change. I believe we can all benefit from the therapeutic relationship. it can be helpful when dealing with difficulties and as a boost to reach our full potential. I can also be a place and time to manage mental hygiene and general health.
I worked as a Therapist at the Priory (now Elysium Healthcare) for 5 years and have worked at Brighton Housing Trust in their Addiction Recovery Therapeutic Community for 9 years.
We all go through some difficulties in life. Asking for help can be difficult , finding the right support can be even more of a challenge. As an Integrative Therapist, I use different modalities to fit my clients' needs, learning curves and communications styles, personalities and states of mind. I also adapt to fit my clients' physical health, integrating body and mind work within the process of change. I believe we can all benefit from the therapeutic relationship. it can be helpful when dealing with difficulties and as a boost to reach our full potential. I can also be a place and time to manage mental hygiene and general health.
07481 337236 View 07481 337236
Photo of Linda Kathryn Berkeley, Psychotherapist in England
Linda Kathryn Berkeley
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
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.
01793 234332 View 01793 234332
Photo of Mark Aitchison, Counsellor in England
Mark Aitchison
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
I opened Ataraxia counselling at the beginning of 2018. Just over a year in and the practice is growing faster than expected. I work with clients with all types of issues and personalities. My experience so far is predominanty mental health as i have worked for Mind in mid Herts and addiction as i also work for ADAS a drug and alcohol agency. If i was to say i had a niche it would be that i can make shy clients feel at ease early on using a relational supportive style of counselling. I would love to welcome new clients to Ataraxia. Look forward to hearing from you. Mark
I opened Ataraxia counselling at the beginning of 2018. Just over a year in and the practice is growing faster than expected. I work with clients with all types of issues and personalities. My experience so far is predominanty mental health as i have worked for Mind in mid Herts and addiction as i also work for ADAS a drug and alcohol agency. If i was to say i had a niche it would be that i can make shy clients feel at ease early on using a relational supportive style of counselling. I would love to welcome new clients to Ataraxia. Look forward to hearing from you. Mark
01992 351822 View 01992 351822
Photo of Jackie Coombs, Counsellor in England
Jackie Coombs
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
At certain points in everyone lives, there comes a time when life, work, family, loss, or the unhelpful ways you cope with stress can become overwhelming. I have worked with many people for over sixteen years who have experienced relational difficulties, I have experience in working with people who suffer with anxiety, depression, work related stress, relationship difficulties, addiction and addictive disorders, bereavement and loss. People who have been in recovery from addiction, and young people who have found self-isolation and lockdowns from Covid-19 too much to manage. Even though everyone has stopped talking about Covid.
At certain points in everyone lives, there comes a time when life, work, family, loss, or the unhelpful ways you cope with stress can become overwhelming. I have worked with many people for over sixteen years who have experienced relational difficulties, I have experience in working with people who suffer with anxiety, depression, work related stress, relationship difficulties, addiction and addictive disorders, bereavement and loss. People who have been in recovery from addiction, and young people who have found self-isolation and lockdowns from Covid-19 too much to manage. Even though everyone has stopped talking about Covid.
020 4538 8696 View 020 4538 8696
Photo of Lee Martin Mbacp(Sen.accred)Emdr(Accred) Ma Ba(Hons) Pg-Dip, Psychotherapist in England
Lee Martin Mbacp(Sen.accred)Emdr(Accred) Ma Ba(Hons) Pg-Dip
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Esher KT10  (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome, Life has indeed become complex. Many of us are now struggling with our mental health in ways that are no longer manageable. Our past and present hurts, our unprocessed feelings have risen to the surface. We find ourselves thinking, feeling and acting in ways that do not reflect who we want to be. Some of us have Grief, Trauma or Addiction that we just can’t seem to work through. As a Senior Accredited Psychotherapist with a Master Degree and EMDR Accredited, I've seen thousands come through my door, with various presenting issues and undergo genuine transformation, healing and leave with hope for the future.
Hello and Welcome, Life has indeed become complex. Many of us are now struggling with our mental health in ways that are no longer manageable. Our past and present hurts, our unprocessed feelings have risen to the surface. We find ourselves thinking, feeling and acting in ways that do not reflect who we want to be. Some of us have Grief, Trauma or Addiction that we just can’t seem to work through. As a Senior Accredited Psychotherapist with a Master Degree and EMDR Accredited, I've seen thousands come through my door, with various presenting issues and undergo genuine transformation, healing and leave with hope for the future.
020 3984 8581 View 020 3984 8581
Photo of brighter pathways, Counsellor in England
brighter pathways
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
I am a qualified counsellor and teacher, I have studied Counselling and Substance Misuse at FdSc level and have a Diploma in Social Work, as well as having a wide range of work and life experience. My down to earth nature empowers me to be accessible, approachable and non-judgmental which is an essential part of a successful working therapeutic relationship. Aiding people to work through their own life challenges is my absolute passion and driving force behind Brighter Pathways Counselling.
I am a qualified counsellor and teacher, I have studied Counselling and Substance Misuse at FdSc level and have a Diploma in Social Work, as well as having a wide range of work and life experience. My down to earth nature empowers me to be accessible, approachable and non-judgmental which is an essential part of a successful working therapeutic relationship. Aiding people to work through their own life challenges is my absolute passion and driving force behind Brighter Pathways Counselling.
0117 456 2551 View 0117 456 2551
Photo of Zoe Silk, Counsellor in England
Zoe Silk
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
I am very passionate about my work and what I love most is seeing my clients progress. Observing their changes and seeing how good they feel within themselves is a wonderful journey to share. I offer support with all kinds of issues. You may be suffering with an anxiety disorder, depression perhaps, an issue within a relationship, an addiction or something else. Whatever your issue is, my aim is to spend time getting to know you, finding the root cause to your problem and any other factors that may have to be taken into consideration. Then, together we can work towards a solid plan for you to more you forward as an individual.
I am very passionate about my work and what I love most is seeing my clients progress. Observing their changes and seeing how good they feel within themselves is a wonderful journey to share. I offer support with all kinds of issues. You may be suffering with an anxiety disorder, depression perhaps, an issue within a relationship, an addiction or something else. Whatever your issue is, my aim is to spend time getting to know you, finding the root cause to your problem and any other factors that may have to be taken into consideration. Then, together we can work towards a solid plan for you to more you forward as an individual.
01202 117054 View 01202 117054
Photo of Melisa Adams, Psychotherapist in England
Melisa Adams
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Doncaster DN4  (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 Thomas Brosnan, Psychotherapist in England
Thomas Brosnan
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
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 Kingsley Boateng, Counsellor in England
Kingsley Boateng
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
I am a fully accredited and qualified Counsellor and a Hypnotherapist. With these two skills, clients can choose what they feel works best for them, and my evaluations of every session involve them. Are you struggling with Loss of any kind? Is anxiety your primary issue affecting your everyday life? Or are you struggling to accept or come to terms with your sexuality? Marking Therapy is a safe space for you—a space where you can be yourself without holding back. I can also support you in dealing with all forms of addiction, body image/ confidence, smoke cessation and many more.
I am a fully accredited and qualified Counsellor and a Hypnotherapist. With these two skills, clients can choose what they feel works best for them, and my evaluations of every session involve them. Are you struggling with Loss of any kind? Is anxiety your primary issue affecting your everyday life? Or are you struggling to accept or come to terms with your sexuality? Marking Therapy is a safe space for you—a space where you can be yourself without holding back. I can also support you in dealing with all forms of addiction, body image/ confidence, smoke cessation and many more.
0191 743 9511 View 0191 743 9511
Photo of Sharon O'Driscoll, Psychologist in England
Sharon O'Driscoll
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
My work with adults covers areas such as addiction, bereavement, meaning in midlife, self-esteem and self-loathing, low mood, anxiety, health-based trauma and relationship breakdown.
Understanding ourselves, the decisions and choices we make and our relationships with others can sometimes be baffling. You may find yourself acting or behaving in ways that you struggle to align with your personal principles, wishes or desires. At times, your experience may suggest that your way of being doesn't blend with the world around you and you might find yourself meeting resistance from people or institutions. Therapy gives us the chance to explore these challenges together. We can look at your relationships with others and the meaning you make of them, helping to develop your insight, self-awareness and self-acceptance.
My work with adults covers areas such as addiction, bereavement, meaning in midlife, self-esteem and self-loathing, low mood, anxiety, health-based trauma and relationship breakdown.
Understanding ourselves, the decisions and choices we make and our relationships with others can sometimes be baffling. You may find yourself acting or behaving in ways that you struggle to align with your personal principles, wishes or desires. At times, your experience may suggest that your way of being doesn't blend with the world around you and you might find yourself meeting resistance from people or institutions. Therapy gives us the chance to explore these challenges together. We can look at your relationships with others and the meaning you make of them, helping to develop your insight, self-awareness and self-acceptance.
01273 071149 View 01273 071149
Photo of Aimee Shelley, Counsellor in England
Aimee Shelley
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
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.
01323 396960 View 01323 396960
Photo of Emma Corker, Psychotherapist in England
Emma Corker
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
London WC1H
I am a qualified Group Analyst and Psychotherapist, working with groups, couples, and individuals. I have extensive experience working in the NHS, the voluntary sector and in further education, particularly in the areas of sexual health, drug and alcohol addiction, and mental health. A group analytic group meets weekly for 90 minutes in a confidential and a containing space. Over time, you will experience the benefits of exploring with other group members the issues that burden you and are causing you distress. We look at your past, as a means of exploring and understanding how it has shaped your present.
I am a qualified Group Analyst and Psychotherapist, working with groups, couples, and individuals. I have extensive experience working in the NHS, the voluntary sector and in further education, particularly in the areas of sexual health, drug and alcohol addiction, and mental health. A group analytic group meets weekly for 90 minutes in a confidential and a containing space. Over time, you will experience the benefits of exploring with other group members the issues that burden you and are causing you distress. We look at your past, as a means of exploring and understanding how it has shaped your present.
020 3835 4807 View 020 3835 4807
Photo of Lee Martin Mbacp(Sen Accred) Emdr(Accred) Ma Ba(Hons) Pg-Dip, Psychotherapist in England
Lee Martin Mbacp(Sen Accred) Emdr(Accred) Ma Ba(Hons) Pg-Dip
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Hemel Hempstead HP1  (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome, Life has indeed become complex. Many of us are now struggling with our mental health in ways that are no longer manageable. Our past and present hurts, our unprocessed feelings have risen to the surface. We find ourselves thinking, feeling and acting in ways that do not reflect who we want to be. Some of us have Grief, Trauma or Addiction that we just can’t seem to work through. As a Senior Accredited Psychotherapist with a Master Degree and EMDR Accredited, I've seen thousands come through my door, with various presenting issues and undergo genuine transformation, healing and leave with hope for the future.
Hello and Welcome, Life has indeed become complex. Many of us are now struggling with our mental health in ways that are no longer manageable. Our past and present hurts, our unprocessed feelings have risen to the surface. We find ourselves thinking, feeling and acting in ways that do not reflect who we want to be. Some of us have Grief, Trauma or Addiction that we just can’t seem to work through. As a Senior Accredited Psychotherapist with a Master Degree and EMDR Accredited, I've seen thousands come through my door, with various presenting issues and undergo genuine transformation, healing and leave with hope for the future.
020 4538 6806 View 020 4538 6806
Photo of Olivia Rose Counselling and Therapy, Counsellor in England
Olivia Rose Counselling and Therapy
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Blackburn BB2  (Online Only)
I have previous experience of working with many different issues, some examples are; anxiety and depression, addiction, relationship troubles, anger issues, trauma, bereavement, self harm and abuse.
Hello, welcome to my page and thank you for looking. My name is Rebecca Bullen. I am a fully qualified integrative Counsellor with over 13 years experience of working with Children, Young people and adults who have faced many different mental health difficulties. In our lifetime, we will all experience difficult and challenging times where we feel we need that extra support, and sometimes do not feel comfortable to share our feelings with those closest to us. It can often be difficult to share our thoughts and feelings with our loved ones and that's where I, as a therapist can help.
I have previous experience of working with many different issues, some examples are; anxiety and depression, addiction, relationship troubles, anger issues, trauma, bereavement, self harm and abuse.
Hello, welcome to my page and thank you for looking. My name is Rebecca Bullen. I am a fully qualified integrative Counsellor with over 13 years experience of working with Children, Young people and adults who have faced many different mental health difficulties. In our lifetime, we will all experience difficult and challenging times where we feel we need that extra support, and sometimes do not feel comfortable to share our feelings with those closest to us. It can often be difficult to share our thoughts and feelings with our loved ones and that's where I, as a therapist can help.
01254 786718 View 01254 786718
Photo of Paula Jane Bantick-Ward, Counsellor in England
Paula Jane Bantick-Ward
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
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 Jack Reardon, Psychotherapist in England
Jack Reardon
Psychotherapist, BACP
Verified Verified
London SW15
I offer long-term and short-term psychotherapy and counselling for a wide range of issues. One of the hardest choices can be finding a therapist. I have an Integrative approach to Psychotherapy, this means I integrate an approach that is suitable to you. I have experience with; addiction recovery, anxiety, depression, trauma, compulsive behaviour, relationship difficulties/or lack of relationship, low self-esteem, childhood abuse, dissociation, suicidal thoughts, anger, self-harming/destructive thoughts and behaviour, amongst others.
I offer long-term and short-term psychotherapy and counselling for a wide range of issues. One of the hardest choices can be finding a therapist. I have an Integrative approach to Psychotherapy, this means I integrate an approach that is suitable to you. I have experience with; addiction recovery, anxiety, depression, trauma, compulsive behaviour, relationship difficulties/or lack of relationship, low self-esteem, childhood abuse, dissociation, suicidal thoughts, anger, self-harming/destructive thoughts and behaviour, amongst others.
01748 901307 View 01748 901307
Photo of Joshua Oliver Jake Corner, Counsellor in England
Joshua Oliver Jake Corner
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
I have extensive experience working with addiction having worked for a substance misuse service.
We can all have times in our lives when we find things tough, we can feel overwhelmed and struggle to cope or we may feel dissatisfied with our lives. This is how counselling can help. ​ I offer a safe space where you can talk openly and privately about your problems, feelings and behaviours. We can build a therapeutic relationship based on trust and respect. It is a non judgmental space for you to speak about issues you face, that you may not feel comfortable to discuss with friends or family.
I have extensive experience working with addiction having worked for a substance misuse service.
We can all have times in our lives when we find things tough, we can feel overwhelmed and struggle to cope or we may feel dissatisfied with our lives. This is how counselling can help. ​ I offer a safe space where you can talk openly and privately about your problems, feelings and behaviours. We can build a therapeutic relationship based on trust and respect. It is a non judgmental space for you to speak about issues you face, that you may not feel comfortable to discuss with friends or family.
0113 519 3167 View 0113 519 3167

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.