Addiction Counselling in Burgess Hill

Photo of Sharon Cunliffe, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Sharon Cunliffe
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Burgess Hill RH15
I have specialist training and experience in the addiction field working with both substance misuse and behavioural addictions.
People seek counselling for a variety of different personal reasons and difficulties. Whatever is going on for you right now, I provide a confidential and calm environment, to help you to develop a deeper understanding of yourself and your issues. I believe each client knows themselves best, therefore we will work together in a collaborative manner. I will help you to identify therapeutic goals and strategies of how you can achieve them, enabling you to feel more empowered to cope with the challenges that life throws at you, rather than feeling overwhelmed or held back by them.
I have specialist training and experience in the addiction field working with both substance misuse and behavioural addictions.
People seek counselling for a variety of different personal reasons and difficulties. Whatever is going on for you right now, I provide a confidential and calm environment, to help you to develop a deeper understanding of yourself and your issues. I believe each client knows themselves best, therefore we will work together in a collaborative manner. I will help you to identify therapeutic goals and strategies of how you can achieve them, enabling you to feel more empowered to cope with the challenges that life throws at you, rather than feeling overwhelmed or held back by them.
01444 224426 View 01444 224426
Photo of James Wright, MBACP, Counsellor
James Wright
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Burgess Hill RH15
I have practised as a counsellor in a range of therapeutic settings, including: with children and young people, counselling carers through a leading carer’s charity, a drug and alcohol charity, a charity supporting addiction recovery, vulnerable people facing homelessness and domestic abuse, and working in perinatal counselling within the NHS.
I am a qualified experienced counsellor working with Adults and Children on a wide range of presenting issues. My aim is to create an environment where you can feel accepted, respected and safe to talk about whatever you want to, without feeling judged. I aim to understand you as if I am stepping into your shoes and seeing the world through your eyes.
I have practised as a counsellor in a range of therapeutic settings, including: with children and young people, counselling carers through a leading carer’s charity, a drug and alcohol charity, a charity supporting addiction recovery, vulnerable people facing homelessness and domestic abuse, and working in perinatal counselling within the NHS.
I am a qualified experienced counsellor working with Adults and Children on a wide range of presenting issues. My aim is to create an environment where you can feel accepted, respected and safe to talk about whatever you want to, without feeling judged. I aim to understand you as if I am stepping into your shoes and seeing the world through your eyes.
01444 224432 View 01444 224432
Photo of Aronn Pace, MBACP, Counsellor
Aronn Pace
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Burgess Hill RH15
UPDATE: I have spaces for a few new clients as of July - please feel free to get in contact. Thank you.
UPDATE: I have spaces for a few new clients as of July - please feel free to get in contact. Thank you.
01444 227759 x44 View 01444 227759 x44
Photo of Giles Matthew Allen, MBBS, Psychiatrist
Giles Matthew Allen
Psychiatrist, MBBS
Verified Verified
Burgess Hill RH15
As a psychiatrist I have wide knowledge of psychopharmacology and working with addictions.
I work within a Jungian framework, where symptoms are seen as communications from the psyche that need to be honoured, in order to be understood and worked through. I endeavour to meet the patient where they are, and through the interpersonal relationship that emerges between us, with its conscious and unconscious aspects, narratives and meaning can emerge safely and creatively, whether through speech, silence, dreams or bodily gesture. Although my main focus is psychodynamic, I have 25 years experience as a practicing psychiatrist, and I am also practice Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.
As a psychiatrist I have wide knowledge of psychopharmacology and working with addictions.
I work within a Jungian framework, where symptoms are seen as communications from the psyche that need to be honoured, in order to be understood and worked through. I endeavour to meet the patient where they are, and through the interpersonal relationship that emerges between us, with its conscious and unconscious aspects, narratives and meaning can emerge safely and creatively, whether through speech, silence, dreams or bodily gesture. Although my main focus is psychodynamic, I have 25 years experience as a practicing psychiatrist, and I am also practice Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.
01444 719146 View 01444 719146
Photo of Julia Rooney, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Julia Rooney
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Burgess Hill RH15
Is low self esteem holding you back? Maybe you don't feel heard .I'm here to listen and together we can look at how you find your voice again. Feeling self conscious may be affecting your work and social relationships as you may often worry what others may be thinking about you . You may feel you are 'not enough' which may lead to increasing anxiety as you withdraw from social situations ? Does it feel like everyone else seems confident and that you are alone? I help people with feelings like this and who struggle with not feeling ‘enough’ and want to let you know you are not alone.
Is low self esteem holding you back? Maybe you don't feel heard .I'm here to listen and together we can look at how you find your voice again. Feeling self conscious may be affecting your work and social relationships as you may often worry what others may be thinking about you . You may feel you are 'not enough' which may lead to increasing anxiety as you withdraw from social situations ? Does it feel like everyone else seems confident and that you are alone? I help people with feelings like this and who struggle with not feeling ‘enough’ and want to let you know you are not alone.
01444 222032 View 01444 222032
Photo of Debbie Retfalvy - Debbie Retfalvy , MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Debbie Retfalvy
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Burgess Hill RH15
Hello, my name is Debbie, I am a psychotherapist, supervisor & tutor for Broadway and BACPT. I work combining pluralistic and humanistic approaches to therapy, my focus is on both flexibility and understanding your inner experiences. We will explore various therapeutic methods, drawing from different theories and techniques to suit your individual needs and preferences. At the same time, prioritising empathy and unconditional positive regard, fostering a deeply supportive and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Together, working towards your goals, honouring your unique journey.
Hello, my name is Debbie, I am a psychotherapist, supervisor & tutor for Broadway and BACPT. I work combining pluralistic and humanistic approaches to therapy, my focus is on both flexibility and understanding your inner experiences. We will explore various therapeutic methods, drawing from different theories and techniques to suit your individual needs and preferences. At the same time, prioritising empathy and unconditional positive regard, fostering a deeply supportive and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Together, working towards your goals, honouring your unique journey.
01903 947019 View 01903 947019
Photo of Anneka Barrett - Anneka Barrett Consultancy, MA, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Anneka Barrett Consultancy
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Burgess Hill RH15
Hello and Welcome, I provide a safe, private space for you to explore whatever it is that has brought you to look into counselling. A typical session would last one hour, I am very much guided by you and what you are looking to understand and work on, making my sessions bespoke to your needs. I am trained in the Person Centred Method, having graduated in 2007 and predominately work this way. I also have training in Meditation, Neuro-linguistic programming and Psychodynamic Counselling.
Hello and Welcome, I provide a safe, private space for you to explore whatever it is that has brought you to look into counselling. A typical session would last one hour, I am very much guided by you and what you are looking to understand and work on, making my sessions bespoke to your needs. I am trained in the Person Centred Method, having graduated in 2007 and predominately work this way. I also have training in Meditation, Neuro-linguistic programming and Psychodynamic Counselling.
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Photo of Melanie Stanton - New Leaf Counselling , MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
New Leaf Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Burgess Hill RH15
Life gives us challenges at times no matter who we are. We are better equipped to deal with these challenges when we have the right support in place. This is where counselling can play a big part in supporting you to deal with whatever challenges you might be facing. Studies have shown that traumatic childhood events can present in our lives when we reach adulthood leaving us in a state of confusion. No matter what your challenges are or where they have come from counselling is there to help you deal with them in a safe and neutral place. I can offer online counselling, face to face, and a walk and talk service.
Life gives us challenges at times no matter who we are. We are better equipped to deal with these challenges when we have the right support in place. This is where counselling can play a big part in supporting you to deal with whatever challenges you might be facing. Studies have shown that traumatic childhood events can present in our lives when we reach adulthood leaving us in a state of confusion. No matter what your challenges are or where they have come from counselling is there to help you deal with them in a safe and neutral place. I can offer online counselling, face to face, and a walk and talk service.
01403 339588 View 01403 339588
Photo of Rebekah Golds-Jones - Stepping Stones Counselling and Psychotherapy Ltd, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Stepping Stones Counselling and Psychotherapy Ltd
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Burgess Hill RH15
Stepping Stones was founded in 2017 by Rebekah, who has over 25 years of experience in working with people experiencing mental health difficulties within the NHS, initially as a Registered Nurse and later as a Psychotherapist, seeing people from a wide variety of contexts and with a mix of different issues and challenges. The team has grown significantly over the years and is now a well renowned service which is a recognised training placement for Counsellors. As a low-cost service, clients are mainly seen by carefully selected Placement Counsellors who are working under the supervision of In-House Supervisors.
Stepping Stones was founded in 2017 by Rebekah, who has over 25 years of experience in working with people experiencing mental health difficulties within the NHS, initially as a Registered Nurse and later as a Psychotherapist, seeing people from a wide variety of contexts and with a mix of different issues and challenges. The team has grown significantly over the years and is now a well renowned service which is a recognised training placement for Counsellors. As a low-cost service, clients are mainly seen by carefully selected Placement Counsellors who are working under the supervision of In-House Supervisors.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Charlotte Parish - Start Something Counselling and Psychotherapy, MSc
Start Something Counselling and Psychotherapy
MSc
Verified Verified
Hove BN3
I am clinically experienced, having worked with a wide range of presentations within private practice, and in the voluntary sector with bereavement and substance dependence.
Welcome to Start Something Counselling and Psychotherapy. I understand that life can be challenging. Sometimes specific events and experiences create pain and emotional discomfort. For others, understanding why life feels uncomfortable is less obvious. My aim is to work with you to help you understand your mind, to enable to you become aware of how your experiences have influenced and impacted you.
I am clinically experienced, having worked with a wide range of presentations within private practice, and in the voluntary sector with bereavement and substance dependence.
Welcome to Start Something Counselling and Psychotherapy. I understand that life can be challenging. Sometimes specific events and experiences create pain and emotional discomfort. For others, understanding why life feels uncomfortable is less obvious. My aim is to work with you to help you understand your mind, to enable to you become aware of how your experiences have influenced and impacted you.
01273 099454 View 01273 099454
Photo of Duncan Long, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Duncan Long
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Brighton BN2
I’m an experienced and passionate Psychotherapist and have both a wide lived and professional experience, working with addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, childhood abuse, adoption, burnout, loneliness and relationship issues.
Hello! A very warm welcome to you. As we face these uncertain times in our world, we find ourselves coming up against many challenges that may be exacerbating our existing internal struggles. It feels more important than ever to find some sense of certainty and purpose in these difficult times. The very idea of isolation can bring on fear and anxiety, uncertainty around our livelihoods can trigger old and new coping strategies that may feel damaging to one’s self.
I’m an experienced and passionate Psychotherapist and have both a wide lived and professional experience, working with addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, childhood abuse, adoption, burnout, loneliness and relationship issues.
Hello! A very warm welcome to you. As we face these uncertain times in our world, we find ourselves coming up against many challenges that may be exacerbating our existing internal struggles. It feels more important than ever to find some sense of certainty and purpose in these difficult times. The very idea of isolation can bring on fear and anxiety, uncertainty around our livelihoods can trigger old and new coping strategies that may feel damaging to one’s self.
01273 071655 View 01273 071655
Photo of Leon Standing, MA, Counsellor
Leon Standing
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hove BN3
I specialise in the field of Addiction.
At times life can be difficult. Sometimes it may feel like life isn’t moving forward and you keep repeating the same old patterns and nothing changes. You may be dwelling on the past or worried about the present or the future. You may just be in a place of general unhappiness where you just don’t know what to do. In developing a better understanding of ourselves, increasing our awareness, and learning about how we operate as people we are able to make fresh choices, see new perspectives, change things, move forward and find our full potential. I believe in peoples capacity to thrive when they are given the right conditions to do so.
I specialise in the field of Addiction.
At times life can be difficult. Sometimes it may feel like life isn’t moving forward and you keep repeating the same old patterns and nothing changes. You may be dwelling on the past or worried about the present or the future. You may just be in a place of general unhappiness where you just don’t know what to do. In developing a better understanding of ourselves, increasing our awareness, and learning about how we operate as people we are able to make fresh choices, see new perspectives, change things, move forward and find our full potential. I believe in peoples capacity to thrive when they are given the right conditions to do so.
01273 037886 View 01273 037886
Photo of Agnieszka Walaszek - Aga Counselling, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Aga Counselling
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Brighton BN1
I am an integrative counsellor ready to provide you support. My experience is extensive, working with individuals from various backgrounds and cultures. I am equipped to handle a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, low self-esteem, addiction, co-dependency, LGBTQ+ related issues, and helping individuals adjust to life changes. I understand that everyone's journey is unique, and I approach therapy with an integrative approach, tailoring my techniques to meet the specific needs of each client. Additionally, I offer walking therapy, allowing clients to engage in therapy while enjoying the outdoors.
I am an integrative counsellor ready to provide you support. My experience is extensive, working with individuals from various backgrounds and cultures. I am equipped to handle a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, low self-esteem, addiction, co-dependency, LGBTQ+ related issues, and helping individuals adjust to life changes. I understand that everyone's journey is unique, and I approach therapy with an integrative approach, tailoring my techniques to meet the specific needs of each client. Additionally, I offer walking therapy, allowing clients to engage in therapy while enjoying the outdoors.
024 7542 7355 View 024 7542 7355
Photo of Ian Caley - Ian Caley Therapy, MSc, BACP, Counsellor
Ian Caley Therapy
Counsellor, MSc, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hove BN3
Welcome, I'm Ian Caley and I specialise in helping people explore their drug and alcohol use and overcome addiction. I'll work with you to design a new life in a safe, confidential, collaborative way. No judgements, just understanding. Maybe you just want to cut down, gain control. Maybe things are getting a little more drastic. I've years of experience, personally and therapeutically, and I know it's not as simple as just putting down the substance- There's the past; trauma from childhood, depression, low self-esteem, anxiety, misplaced coping mechanisms. We'll find solutions. Get in touch to see if I'm the right therapist for you.
Welcome, I'm Ian Caley and I specialise in helping people explore their drug and alcohol use and overcome addiction. I'll work with you to design a new life in a safe, confidential, collaborative way. No judgements, just understanding. Maybe you just want to cut down, gain control. Maybe things are getting a little more drastic. I've years of experience, personally and therapeutically, and I know it's not as simple as just putting down the substance- There's the past; trauma from childhood, depression, low self-esteem, anxiety, misplaced coping mechanisms. We'll find solutions. Get in touch to see if I'm the right therapist for you.
01273 092734 View 01273 092734
Photo of Mark Lewenstein, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Mark Lewenstein
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Hove BN3
You may want to talk about anxiety, addiction or depression; you may be looking to cope with some life event such as a bereavement, divorce, redundancy or a relationship problem; or you might be feeling stuck in a rut and that you want more out of life. You will be able to explore what might lie behind the feelings you're experiencing, or what might lie behind certain thoughts or behaviours that you're not finding helpful. All these things can be helped and supported by talking confidentially.
You may want to talk about anxiety, addiction or depression; you may be looking to cope with some life event such as a bereavement, divorce, redundancy or a relationship problem; or you might be feeling stuck in a rut and that you want more out of life. You will be able to explore what might lie behind the feelings you're experiencing, or what might lie behind certain thoughts or behaviours that you're not finding helpful. All these things can be helped and supported by talking confidentially.
01273 037768 View 01273 037768
Photo of Philippa Williams - Equine Enlightenment Psychological Services, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Equine Enlightenment Psychological Services
Psychologist, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Brighton BN41  (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
07588 695348 View 07588 695348
Photo of Sophie Sorensen, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Sophie Sorensen
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hove BN3
Sometimes it's hard to keep up with the challenges we face. I offer an easy-going and confidential​ digital space to unpack what is troubling you. I have experience working with a variety of issues, such as anxiety and depression, trauma, bereavement, personality disorders, life transitions, relationship issues, questions around identity, sexuality, addiction & recovery processes. It's easy to say, "I'm fine" when often, quite the opposite is true. My work as a Psychotherapist is informed by an Integrative/Pluralistic approach. I work at your pace to meet your needs. www.sorensentherapy.space
Sometimes it's hard to keep up with the challenges we face. I offer an easy-going and confidential​ digital space to unpack what is troubling you. I have experience working with a variety of issues, such as anxiety and depression, trauma, bereavement, personality disorders, life transitions, relationship issues, questions around identity, sexuality, addiction & recovery processes. It's easy to say, "I'm fine" when often, quite the opposite is true. My work as a Psychotherapist is informed by an Integrative/Pluralistic approach. I work at your pace to meet your needs. www.sorensentherapy.space
07480 781410 View 07480 781410
Photo of Ralph Geoffrey Taylor - Talk to Ralph Psychotherapy, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Talk to Ralph Psychotherapy
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Brighton BN2
Waitlist for new clients
I specialise in addiction, trauma and relationship issues, giving me extensive experience in handling complex trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship & sexual difficulties, intimacy issues, shame, feeling stuck, and low self-esteem.
Another therapist in the sea of therapists? Trying to decipher who's best for you based on a photo and therapeutic jargon when you're already stressed? Let me introduce myself and explain how I work and how I can help. I prioritise being a human first, meeting you where you are to build a relationship that facilitates lasting change. Establishing clear goals is central to my work, emerging as we progress, working together to relieve anxieties, traumas and life-limiting internal & interpersonal issues. Our work can lead toward more fulfilment, awareness, spontaneity, and intimacy.
I specialise in addiction, trauma and relationship issues, giving me extensive experience in handling complex trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship & sexual difficulties, intimacy issues, shame, feeling stuck, and low self-esteem.
Another therapist in the sea of therapists? Trying to decipher who's best for you based on a photo and therapeutic jargon when you're already stressed? Let me introduce myself and explain how I work and how I can help. I prioritise being a human first, meeting you where you are to build a relationship that facilitates lasting change. Establishing clear goals is central to my work, emerging as we progress, working together to relieve anxieties, traumas and life-limiting internal & interpersonal issues. Our work can lead toward more fulfilment, awareness, spontaneity, and intimacy.
01273 092779 View 01273 092779
Photo of Alex Munn, MBACP, Counsellor
Alex Munn
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hove BN3
I completed a clinical placement at Change Grow Live, where I received specialised training in the field of addiction, and have volunteered at a sixth form college supporting young people with their mental health.
Hello, I’m Alex. I’m an experienced counsellor offering online and in-person sessions. I believe that talking about personal experiences in a supportive environment can lead to positive, long lasting change. There are many reasons why you might be seeking therapy, perhaps there are specific challenges you’d like to work through, aspects of yourself you’d like to understand better, goals you’d like to work towards or find a greater sense of meaning and purpose in your life. Whatever your reasons may be, my role is to support you through that process.
I completed a clinical placement at Change Grow Live, where I received specialised training in the field of addiction, and have volunteered at a sixth form college supporting young people with their mental health.
Hello, I’m Alex. I’m an experienced counsellor offering online and in-person sessions. I believe that talking about personal experiences in a supportive environment can lead to positive, long lasting change. There are many reasons why you might be seeking therapy, perhaps there are specific challenges you’d like to work through, aspects of yourself you’d like to understand better, goals you’d like to work towards or find a greater sense of meaning and purpose in your life. Whatever your reasons may be, my role is to support you through that process.
01903 948382 View 01903 948382
Photo of Laurence Baretto de Souza, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Laurence Baretto de Souza
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hove BN3
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 optimise mental hygiene and 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 optimise mental hygiene and health.
07481 337236 View 07481 337236

See more therapy options for Burgess Hill

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.