Addiction Counselling in Scotland

Photo of Leeanne McKenna, MCOSCA, Counsellor
Leeanne McKenna
Counsellor, MCOSCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
Integrative counselling can help with many challenges including anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, isolation, depression, problems at work, addiction, trauma, grief, coping with change, feeling stuck and relationship difficulties.
I believe that each person is unique and the expert of their own lived experience. As an integrative counsellor, I understand there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. Instead, I will work collaboratively with you to identify your preferences and goals, drawing on different theories and methods that are most helpful for you. I take a strengths-based approach, identifying and building on your existing skills and resourcefulness to bring about change. I will seek to co-create a respectful therapeutic relationship that provides the safety you need to explore the experiences that brought you to counselling.
Integrative counselling can help with many challenges including anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, isolation, depression, problems at work, addiction, trauma, grief, coping with change, feeling stuck and relationship difficulties.
I believe that each person is unique and the expert of their own lived experience. As an integrative counsellor, I understand there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. Instead, I will work collaboratively with you to identify your preferences and goals, drawing on different theories and methods that are most helpful for you. I take a strengths-based approach, identifying and building on your existing skills and resourcefulness to bring about change. I will seek to co-create a respectful therapeutic relationship that provides the safety you need to explore the experiences that brought you to counselling.
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Photo of Mark Ernest Hepburn, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Mark Ernest Hepburn
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Dealing with issues such as Addiction, Stress, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety and Bereavement.
People tell me that I'm warm, funny and really good with people and I feel I bring this to my client work. I believe that clients need to feel safe and develop a sense of trust before the process of sharing can evolve in to the dynamic process I believe provides the best opportunity for change and developing insight. I think what underpins this is the belief that a tight rope walker wont let go unless they feel they have a safety net to catch them, perhaps clients are the same in that regard. My philosophy of counselling has evolved but what has never changed is my belief in the uniqueness and individuality of clients and progress
Dealing with issues such as Addiction, Stress, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety and Bereavement.
People tell me that I'm warm, funny and really good with people and I feel I bring this to my client work. I believe that clients need to feel safe and develop a sense of trust before the process of sharing can evolve in to the dynamic process I believe provides the best opportunity for change and developing insight. I think what underpins this is the belief that a tight rope walker wont let go unless they feel they have a safety net to catch them, perhaps clients are the same in that regard. My philosophy of counselling has evolved but what has never changed is my belief in the uniqueness and individuality of clients and progress
01224 057050 View 01224 057050
Photo of Andrew McCann - Speak Breathe Therapy, MA, Psychotherapist
Speak Breathe Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
I am an experienced CBT therapist, BABCP accredited who works with a wide range of issues and problems including: anxiety, depression, body image, negative thinking, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance misuse, shame, guilt, control, perfectionism, self-harm, and childhood neglect.
The client needs to be heard. It’s not always about what the client says, it can sometimes be about what they don’t say. The client is the expert in their live and all I really do as a therapist is show empathy, compassion and hold a passion about sharing their journey and their insights. The needs and goals are there from the start and we work together to achieve them. The needs and goals can also change throughout because we’re human and things change and evolve.
I am an experienced CBT therapist, BABCP accredited who works with a wide range of issues and problems including: anxiety, depression, body image, negative thinking, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance misuse, shame, guilt, control, perfectionism, self-harm, and childhood neglect.
The client needs to be heard. It’s not always about what the client says, it can sometimes be about what they don’t say. The client is the expert in their live and all I really do as a therapist is show empathy, compassion and hold a passion about sharing their journey and their insights. The needs and goals are there from the start and we work together to achieve them. The needs and goals can also change throughout because we’re human and things change and evolve.
0141 465 5531 View 0141 465 5531
Photo of Saskia Burnett, MBACP, Counsellor
Saskia Burnett
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
My work has covered a diverse set of peoples issues, ranging from trauma, bereavement and addiction, to relationship issues or any other aspects of life which may have become a burden.
As a therapist, I firmly believe that each of us holds the answers to our own issues within. My role here is to help you recognise these and support you in working through them. I will aim to create a trusting counselling relationship throughout our sessions, where you can feel able to express your feelings in an empathic and accepting environment. Through this collaboration, our aim would be for you to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, in turn facilitating the change you are aspiring to achieve.
My work has covered a diverse set of peoples issues, ranging from trauma, bereavement and addiction, to relationship issues or any other aspects of life which may have become a burden.
As a therapist, I firmly believe that each of us holds the answers to our own issues within. My role here is to help you recognise these and support you in working through them. I will aim to create a trusting counselling relationship throughout our sessions, where you can feel able to express your feelings in an empathic and accepting environment. Through this collaboration, our aim would be for you to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, in turn facilitating the change you are aspiring to achieve.
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Photo of Gerard Mulrooney, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Gerard Mulrooney
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Glasgow G20  (Online Only)
I am an BABCP Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist and a EMDR Therapist. I am particularly experienced in working with people struggling with the effects of trauma from childhood or adulthood, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Complex PTSD, substance use, anxiety disorders, stress, low self-esteem and depression.
I am an BABCP Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist and a EMDR Therapist. I am particularly experienced in working with people struggling with the effects of trauma from childhood or adulthood, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Complex PTSD, substance use, anxiety disorders, stress, low self-esteem and depression.
0141 673 2439 View 0141 673 2439
Photo of Graham Hill, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Graham Hill
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
My specialities include trauma, coaching, addiction, mental health, burnout resolution, wellness, finding your purpose & spirituality.
Life is a challenging adventure on the ‘road less travelled’. I provide helpful guidance in an atmosphere of confidence, openness, trust, care, vigilance & respect. It is Ok to accept help; you will grow stronger, feel freer & more joyful. It is my vocation & honour to offer you all the space & time you need to share, vent, grieve, forgive and invigorate your Life! It will help you feel ‘seen’, ‘heard’, ‘valued’ & to ‘trust’ there is always support available to overcome challenges! I am committed to help you ground deep in your heart & soul, the resilience love & acceptance you need to move forward & be happy with yourself Now!
My specialities include trauma, coaching, addiction, mental health, burnout resolution, wellness, finding your purpose & spirituality.
Life is a challenging adventure on the ‘road less travelled’. I provide helpful guidance in an atmosphere of confidence, openness, trust, care, vigilance & respect. It is Ok to accept help; you will grow stronger, feel freer & more joyful. It is my vocation & honour to offer you all the space & time you need to share, vent, grieve, forgive and invigorate your Life! It will help you feel ‘seen’, ‘heard’, ‘valued’ & to ‘trust’ there is always support available to overcome challenges! I am committed to help you ground deep in your heart & soul, the resilience love & acceptance you need to move forward & be happy with yourself Now!
0141 465 5331 View 0141 465 5331
Photo of Angela Stanton - Thoughts4change, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Thoughts4change
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Throughout my work as a CBT practitioner I have acquired a broad and varied experience, starting my career working in drug and alcohol units, delivering substance misuse motivational work, group work and one to one sessions.
My name Angela Stanton I have worked within the mental health field for more than 13 years; working in the statutory, voluntary and private sectors. I have a broad range of experience in complex mental health, substance use, mood disorder, eating issues and issues related to life adjustment and relational issues.
Throughout my work as a CBT practitioner I have acquired a broad and varied experience, starting my career working in drug and alcohol units, delivering substance misuse motivational work, group work and one to one sessions.
My name Angela Stanton I have worked within the mental health field for more than 13 years; working in the statutory, voluntary and private sectors. I have a broad range of experience in complex mental health, substance use, mood disorder, eating issues and issues related to life adjustment and relational issues.
01475 601682 View 01475 601682
Photo of Tracy Williams - Tracy Williams Therapy, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Tracy Williams Therapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
I offer a wide variety of services including individual counselling and psychotherapy, couples therapy, teens and young adults counselling, family counselling, online therapy, mindfulness education, substance misuse and behavioural addictions therapy, support for family and friends and corporate mindfulness.
I have an open, friendly and supportive manner, backed by my academic qualifications and many years of experience. I am trained in clinical psychology and holds both undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications in this area. I hold an MSc in Marriage, Family and Child Counselling. I also holds professional qualifications, and am highly experienced in working with alcohol and drug abuse. In addition I am a visiting lecturer for PhD students completing their final year at Glasgow's Caledonian University, and delivers mindfulness training to individuals, groups and businesses. ​
I offer a wide variety of services including individual counselling and psychotherapy, couples therapy, teens and young adults counselling, family counselling, online therapy, mindfulness education, substance misuse and behavioural addictions therapy, support for family and friends and corporate mindfulness.
I have an open, friendly and supportive manner, backed by my academic qualifications and many years of experience. I am trained in clinical psychology and holds both undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications in this area. I hold an MSc in Marriage, Family and Child Counselling. I also holds professional qualifications, and am highly experienced in working with alcohol and drug abuse. In addition I am a visiting lecturer for PhD students completing their final year at Glasgow's Caledonian University, and delivers mindfulness training to individuals, groups and businesses. ​
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Photo of Isabel Traynor - Dr Isabel Traynor, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Isabel Traynor
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
I draw on a range of evidence-based treatments for a wide variety of issues including addiction, trauma and anxiety.
The nature of being a human means we are all prone to experiencing difficulties with managing stress, emotions and relationships. It can help to talk about your worries and gain an understanding about what is causing them, what helps you, what makes things worse and most importantly what changes you can make to improve things. I understand that it can be difficult to reach out for help. You have made the first step by looking for support and I hope you will get in touch to discuss your situation. You can be assured that things will be taken at a pace that you find acceptable and manageable.
I draw on a range of evidence-based treatments for a wide variety of issues including addiction, trauma and anxiety.
The nature of being a human means we are all prone to experiencing difficulties with managing stress, emotions and relationships. It can help to talk about your worries and gain an understanding about what is causing them, what helps you, what makes things worse and most importantly what changes you can make to improve things. I understand that it can be difficult to reach out for help. You have made the first step by looking for support and I hope you will get in touch to discuss your situation. You can be assured that things will be taken at a pace that you find acceptable and manageable.
0141 673 8707 View 0141 673 8707
Photo of Derek McMillan, MA
Derek McMillan
MA
Verified Verified
I work with clients from a wide range of backgrounds exploring many issues including addiction, relationships, depression, identity, religion/spirituality, child abuse and ADHD.
I am a certified practitioner of Gabor Mate's somatic based psychotherapeutic approach, compassionate inquiry. I come from a background teaching psychology, philosophy and religious/moral studies and bring together three decades of experience of mind/body practices and academic studies to offer my clients a safe space, non-judgemental presence, natural curiosity, humility and a deep desire to work alongside you on your journey of healing and personal growth.
I work with clients from a wide range of backgrounds exploring many issues including addiction, relationships, depression, identity, religion/spirituality, child abuse and ADHD.
I am a certified practitioner of Gabor Mate's somatic based psychotherapeutic approach, compassionate inquiry. I come from a background teaching psychology, philosophy and religious/moral studies and bring together three decades of experience of mind/body practices and academic studies to offer my clients a safe space, non-judgemental presence, natural curiosity, humility and a deep desire to work alongside you on your journey of healing and personal growth.
01934 315055 View 01934 315055
Photo of Janet Cameron, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Janet Cameron
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
I work with a wide variety of issues, and specialise in Addiction/alcohol and substance misuse/gambling.
Hello I am Janet and I am an Integrative Therapist. If you have found your way to my page i imagine you are possibly feeling a little overwhelmed so i will tell you about my practice and what i offer. I provide a safe space to feel seen and heard and offer unconditional positive regard. Our work together will help you to access your own inner resources to empower you to have a better understanding and awareness of why you may currently feel stuck, identify where you ideally would like to be and how i can help you get there to allow you to lead a more fulfilling life and reach your full potential.
I work with a wide variety of issues, and specialise in Addiction/alcohol and substance misuse/gambling.
Hello I am Janet and I am an Integrative Therapist. If you have found your way to my page i imagine you are possibly feeling a little overwhelmed so i will tell you about my practice and what i offer. I provide a safe space to feel seen and heard and offer unconditional positive regard. Our work together will help you to access your own inner resources to empower you to have a better understanding and awareness of why you may currently feel stuck, identify where you ideally would like to be and how i can help you get there to allow you to lead a more fulfilling life and reach your full potential.
0141 673 3171 View 0141 673 3171
Photo of Louise Jane Woodward, DCounsPsych, MCOSCA, Counsellor
Louise Jane Woodward
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MCOSCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cupar KY15
I bring specific expertise in working with adult survivors of trauma, addressing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and working with addiction.
Do you find yourself feeling disconnected, lost, or struggling with your sense of identity after a traumatic experience? Trauma can often lead to a profound sense of disconnection from oneself. Together, we'll explore different techniques, empowering you to reconnect with your true identity, rediscover your strengths, and reclaim your sense of self. Not all emotions or experiences can be easily put into words. I incorporate creative methods to explore emotions, thoughts, and experiences in a non-verbal way, fostering a deeper understanding and facilitating healing.
I bring specific expertise in working with adult survivors of trauma, addressing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and working with addiction.
Do you find yourself feeling disconnected, lost, or struggling with your sense of identity after a traumatic experience? Trauma can often lead to a profound sense of disconnection from oneself. Together, we'll explore different techniques, empowering you to reconnect with your true identity, rediscover your strengths, and reclaim your sense of self. Not all emotions or experiences can be easily put into words. I incorporate creative methods to explore emotions, thoughts, and experiences in a non-verbal way, fostering a deeper understanding and facilitating healing.
01337 327003 View 01337 327003
Photo of Suzanne McNaughton - integration counselling & psychotherapy, MRes, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
integration counselling & psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MRes, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Experience and a wide range of knowledge across various specialities: anxiety (panic disorder, OCD) addiction (alcohol, drugs, sex, porn), post traumatic stress disorder.
Do you feel stuck in a particular cycle that is impacting your life and needs to change? Does regulating emotions seem impossible?thinking negatively? have difficultly trusting others or doubt yourself?..Our hope is to offer you the tools, techniques and the inspiration you need towards improving your wellbeing, and encouraging personal growth. Whether you would like some help with anger, anxiety, addiction, phobias, to improve your mood, process trauma or improve your self-esteem. Together we can work collaboratively to help you to make lasting changes which will allow you to improve your outlook and live life to the fullest.
Experience and a wide range of knowledge across various specialities: anxiety (panic disorder, OCD) addiction (alcohol, drugs, sex, porn), post traumatic stress disorder.
Do you feel stuck in a particular cycle that is impacting your life and needs to change? Does regulating emotions seem impossible?thinking negatively? have difficultly trusting others or doubt yourself?..Our hope is to offer you the tools, techniques and the inspiration you need towards improving your wellbeing, and encouraging personal growth. Whether you would like some help with anger, anxiety, addiction, phobias, to improve your mood, process trauma or improve your self-esteem. Together we can work collaboratively to help you to make lasting changes which will allow you to improve your outlook and live life to the fullest.
07723 923797 View 07723 923797
Photo of Brian Carr, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Brian Carr
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
I have a particular specialty in counselling people who are, or have been, affected by addictions.
Thank you for visiting my page. My name is Brian. I am an Integrative Counsellor with Person Centred collaborative approach. I became a Counsellor later in life, after 30 years in Industry. My passion for helping people comes from a wealth of life experience and self discovery. I offers a safe, confidential, non-judgemental space where you can feel fully respected, and explore your thoughts, feelings, and concerns. Thoughts and feelings directly impact behaviour and mood and can affect our ability to cope with life. Talking through these feelings can help encourage positive change.
I have a particular specialty in counselling people who are, or have been, affected by addictions.
Thank you for visiting my page. My name is Brian. I am an Integrative Counsellor with Person Centred collaborative approach. I became a Counsellor later in life, after 30 years in Industry. My passion for helping people comes from a wealth of life experience and self discovery. I offers a safe, confidential, non-judgemental space where you can feel fully respected, and explore your thoughts, feelings, and concerns. Thoughts and feelings directly impact behaviour and mood and can affect our ability to cope with life. Talking through these feelings can help encourage positive change.
0141 465 5240 View 0141 465 5240
Photo of Steve Hardie - Bu Therapy, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Bu Therapy
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
I have specialist knowledge in addiction and have helped people for over 20 years in this area.
Bu Therapy works with YOU. You are, after all, the expert with what is going on in your life today. Together we will work on areas that might be affecting your life and what you would like to change. CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy) looks at the present rather than the past and identifies negative or maladaptive thinking styles that make you see things differently and out of focus. I will work with you in a collaborative manner so we can correct this “blurred view” of life and bring clarity, focus, and direction back into your life, and “together we can come out of the darkness and into the light".
I have specialist knowledge in addiction and have helped people for over 20 years in this area.
Bu Therapy works with YOU. You are, after all, the expert with what is going on in your life today. Together we will work on areas that might be affecting your life and what you would like to change. CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy) looks at the present rather than the past and identifies negative or maladaptive thinking styles that make you see things differently and out of focus. I will work with you in a collaborative manner so we can correct this “blurred view” of life and bring clarity, focus, and direction back into your life, and “together we can come out of the darkness and into the light".
0131 381 8361 View 0131 381 8361
Photo of Jason Michael Lumb, DCounsPsych
Jason Michael Lumb
DCounsPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Many people struggle with addiction, with such things as alcohol, cocaine,ambling or even sex addiction which is increasing as the internet expands.
Are you concerned that your use of substances or problematic behaviour is getting out of control and is causing problems in your life? Or are you worried that you will not be able to cope without them, even though you would like to cut back or stop? Do you feel locked into thinking styles which are starting to dominate your life such as anxiety or depression and don't know what to do? Imagine if you could regain control of your life and situation so you felt happier, and were no longer dependant or worried about your substance use or problematic behaviours? Recovery is possible but sometimes we need a bit of help to get there
Many people struggle with addiction, with such things as alcohol, cocaine,ambling or even sex addiction which is increasing as the internet expands.
Are you concerned that your use of substances or problematic behaviour is getting out of control and is causing problems in your life? Or are you worried that you will not be able to cope without them, even though you would like to cut back or stop? Do you feel locked into thinking styles which are starting to dominate your life such as anxiety or depression and don't know what to do? Imagine if you could regain control of your life and situation so you felt happier, and were no longer dependant or worried about your substance use or problematic behaviours? Recovery is possible but sometimes we need a bit of help to get there
0131 381 0141 View 0131 381 0141
Photo of Louise Montgomery, MBACP, Counsellor
Louise Montgomery
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
I have over twenty years’ experience working with individuals who have experienced challenging times including addiction, abuse, anxiety, domestic violence, depression, relationship breakdown, loss, homelessness, trauma and many others. I am aware of the impact that such challenges can have on individuals and together we can explore this.
I have over twenty years’ experience working with individuals who have experienced challenging times including addiction, abuse, anxiety, domestic violence, depression, relationship breakdown, loss, homelessness, trauma and many others. I am aware of the impact that such challenges can have on individuals and together we can explore this.
07790 232202 View 07790 232202
Photo of Claire Stevens, MBACP, Counsellor
Claire Stevens
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
I specialise in many areas of mental health including , trauma , addiction , stress, anxiety , depression and abuse .
I am a qualified integrative counsellor and supervisor registered with the BACP. I have personal experience of how beneficial counselling can be , and appreciate how difficult it may be to reach out and ask for help. I understand what it is like to be a client, and I aim to offer a safe , non judgemental , confidential environment , allowing you to explore areas of your life that are causing you concern . By building a warm therapeutic relationship , we can work collaboratively to gain insight and perspective into your personal challenges , and overcome any barriers preventing you from reaching your goals.
I specialise in many areas of mental health including , trauma , addiction , stress, anxiety , depression and abuse .
I am a qualified integrative counsellor and supervisor registered with the BACP. I have personal experience of how beneficial counselling can be , and appreciate how difficult it may be to reach out and ask for help. I understand what it is like to be a client, and I aim to offer a safe , non judgemental , confidential environment , allowing you to explore areas of your life that are causing you concern . By building a warm therapeutic relationship , we can work collaboratively to gain insight and perspective into your personal challenges , and overcome any barriers preventing you from reaching your goals.
01357 510627 View 01357 510627
Photo of Charlene Todd, MBACP, Counsellor
Charlene Todd
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I understand the nature of suffering and the pain this brings to people’s lives. No matter what’s going on and what has brought you to this point, please know that with support, these elements can be healed and even transformed. You may be facing a variety of issues, such as loss, grief, stress, Trauma, Addiction, shame Anxiety, low self-esteem, behavioral difficulties, obsessive thoughts, and loneliness. Together, we can work on strategies and techniques that can ease your symptoms by allowing you to address the root causes of pain, work through any uncertainties, find meaning and build a purposeful life.
I understand the nature of suffering and the pain this brings to people’s lives. No matter what’s going on and what has brought you to this point, please know that with support, these elements can be healed and even transformed. You may be facing a variety of issues, such as loss, grief, stress, Trauma, Addiction, shame Anxiety, low self-esteem, behavioral difficulties, obsessive thoughts, and loneliness. Together, we can work on strategies and techniques that can ease your symptoms by allowing you to address the root causes of pain, work through any uncertainties, find meaning and build a purposeful life.
01592 808598 View 01592 808598
Photo of Rob Mclintock - Rob Mclintock CBT Therapist , BACP, Counsellor
Rob Mclintock CBT Therapist
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overwhelmed by thoughts and feelings? Do you want to add choice, power and resilience back to your life? My focus on strength based CBT can do this. My is practice is solution focused, using evidence based techniques to help manage and treat anxiety, depression, addiction and performance anxiety. My skill is to hold a warm, safe space, where you are able to explore the issue that is stopping you from being as happy as as you'd like on a day to day bases. My biggest aim is to allow you to empower yourself and realise your full potential, that I know you have.
Overwhelmed by thoughts and feelings? Do you want to add choice, power and resilience back to your life? My focus on strength based CBT can do this. My is practice is solution focused, using evidence based techniques to help manage and treat anxiety, depression, addiction and performance anxiety. My skill is to hold a warm, safe space, where you are able to explore the issue that is stopping you from being as happy as as you'd like on a day to day bases. My biggest aim is to allow you to empower yourself and realise your full potential, that I know you have.
0141 673 2880 View 0141 673 2880
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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.