Photo of Andy Flack, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Andy Flack
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Cheltenham GL51
If you are worrying more than usual, having nightmares or flashbacks to a traumatic event, suffering from disturbed sleep or are more feeling irritable and hyper-vigilant than usual, you may be suffering from a reaction to trauma. If this strikes a cord, visit the website for more information or get in touch by email or phone. I have spent the last twenty years helping clients resolve trauma and anxiety problems and intend to spend the next twenty doing the same. I may be able to help you in London, Cheltenham or worldwide online.
If you are worrying more than usual, having nightmares or flashbacks to a traumatic event, suffering from disturbed sleep or are more feeling irritable and hyper-vigilant than usual, you may be suffering from a reaction to trauma. If this strikes a cord, visit the website for more information or get in touch by email or phone. I have spent the last twenty years helping clients resolve trauma and anxiety problems and intend to spend the next twenty doing the same. I may be able to help you in London, Cheltenham or worldwide online.
020 3870 4638 View 020 3870 4638

Online Therapists

Photo of Lee Martin, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Lee Martin
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Leatherhead KT22  (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, 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, undergo genuine transformation, healing and leave with hope for the future.
01895 545169 View 01895 545169
Photo of Lee Martin: Mbacp(Sen.accred) Ma Ba(Hons) Pg-Dip Emdr(Accred), Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Lee Martin: Mbacp(Sen.accred) Ma Ba(Hons) Pg-Dip Emdr(Accred)
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
London SW7  (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 3376 7948 View 020 3376 7948
Photo of Sensing Self Therapy, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Sensing Self Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
London NW10
If you have found your way to this page, there is every possibility that you are looking for help in some way. Life challenges us in unexpected ways and sometimes we might need more support to find our way through. You may be feeling a loss of meaning, or experiencing symptoms such as depression, anxiety, addiction or grief. Or you may be ready to continue with your own journey of self-awareness. I strongly believe that there is a wisdom and resilience in each person, but it can often be hidden. The therapeutic relationship is key to recovering our resources.I integrate Psychotherapy and body-centred approaches to healing.
If you have found your way to this page, there is every possibility that you are looking for help in some way. Life challenges us in unexpected ways and sometimes we might need more support to find our way through. You may be feeling a loss of meaning, or experiencing symptoms such as depression, anxiety, addiction or grief. Or you may be ready to continue with your own journey of self-awareness. I strongly believe that there is a wisdom and resilience in each person, but it can often be hidden. The therapeutic relationship is key to recovering our resources.I integrate Psychotherapy and body-centred approaches to healing.
020 3389 9807 View 020 3389 9807
Photo of Dr. Jason Chan, Psychologist in Cheltenham, England
Dr. Jason Chan
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London EC2M
Depression breeds inactivity, rumination, hopelessness, self-loathing, loneliness and addiction; anxiety problems compel us to run reactively for safety, only our escapes often further entrench our fear, worries and cause panic.
A Principal Clinical Psychologist with 16 years of experience of working in and leading NHS Psychology Services, and an expert in CBT, Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Emotion-focused therapy, EMDR, Acceptance-commitment Therapy and Mindfulness approaches. I offer incisive, experiential, and highly effective treatments designed to help you overcome your distress and effect lasting changes. Seeking help is a major life step. I commit to providing a safe, professional and personalized treatment experience to sensitively support and empower you, deepen your self-understanding and create positive changes for a life that you can truly value.
Depression breeds inactivity, rumination, hopelessness, self-loathing, loneliness and addiction; anxiety problems compel us to run reactively for safety, only our escapes often further entrench our fear, worries and cause panic.
A Principal Clinical Psychologist with 16 years of experience of working in and leading NHS Psychology Services, and an expert in CBT, Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Emotion-focused therapy, EMDR, Acceptance-commitment Therapy and Mindfulness approaches. I offer incisive, experiential, and highly effective treatments designed to help you overcome your distress and effect lasting changes. Seeking help is a major life step. I commit to providing a safe, professional and personalized treatment experience to sensitively support and empower you, deepen your self-understanding and create positive changes for a life that you can truly value.
020 3962 0919 View 020 3962 0919
Photo of Marc Whittaker, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Marc Whittaker
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SE1
The approach can work effectively with the impact that Traumatic or major life events can have, as well as addiction and attachment issues.
My role as therapist is to work alongside you, creating a supported, non-judgemental space, where we can explore together what you are experiencing, at a pace that feels safe. Together we can tackle themes like anxiety, hypervigilance, depression, dissociation, intrusive thoughts, or a combination of all. I will work with you to create a greater sense of internal balance, help you manage stress, resolve the impact of trauma, heal from, and navigate life transitions, relationships and through a new awareness, build a greater resilience,feeling better able to regulate emotions and less overwhelmed with the complexities of modern life.
The approach can work effectively with the impact that Traumatic or major life events can have, as well as addiction and attachment issues.
My role as therapist is to work alongside you, creating a supported, non-judgemental space, where we can explore together what you are experiencing, at a pace that feels safe. Together we can tackle themes like anxiety, hypervigilance, depression, dissociation, intrusive thoughts, or a combination of all. I will work with you to create a greater sense of internal balance, help you manage stress, resolve the impact of trauma, heal from, and navigate life transitions, relationships and through a new awareness, build a greater resilience,feeling better able to regulate emotions and less overwhelmed with the complexities of modern life.
020 8090 5170 View 020 8090 5170
Photo of Hyunho Khang, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Hyunho Khang
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1
I have wide experience counselling a diverse range of clients experiencing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, loss, grief, anger issues, confidence issues, relationship difficulties, issues around sex, issues at work, addiction, eating issues, abuse, trauma and autism. I work in conjunction with NHS services and other health professionals to support adults in the South West. I have a particular interest in working with clients with relationship difficulties (including sex issues), clients affected by narcissism in their relationships, and clients with somatic problems including pain, chronic fatigue, ME, IBS and fibromyalgia.
I have wide experience counselling a diverse range of clients experiencing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, loss, grief, anger issues, confidence issues, relationship difficulties, issues around sex, issues at work, addiction, eating issues, abuse, trauma and autism. I work in conjunction with NHS services and other health professionals to support adults in the South West. I have a particular interest in working with clients with relationship difficulties (including sex issues), clients affected by narcissism in their relationships, and clients with somatic problems including pain, chronic fatigue, ME, IBS and fibromyalgia.
0117 325 2122 View 0117 325 2122
Photo of Jon King - Addiction Specialist Psychotherapist, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Jon King - Addiction Specialist Psychotherapist
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Birmingham B28
I am a fully qualified and experienced counsellor and psychotherapist with experience working within the NHS, private and charitable sectors. I offer a safe and confidential space in Birmingham and Coventry where clients are able to explore themselves free from judgement. I have extensive experience working within the field of addiction and have also been working within my own private practice for a number of years where i have enjoyed working with clients that present with a variety of different issues such as anxiety, relationship issues, sex issues, anger issues, personality disorders and also bereavement.
I am a fully qualified and experienced counsellor and psychotherapist with experience working within the NHS, private and charitable sectors. I offer a safe and confidential space in Birmingham and Coventry where clients are able to explore themselves free from judgement. I have extensive experience working within the field of addiction and have also been working within my own private practice for a number of years where i have enjoyed working with clients that present with a variety of different issues such as anxiety, relationship issues, sex issues, anger issues, personality disorders and also bereavement.
0121 285 8149 View 0121 285 8149
Photo of Matthew Benjamin Therapy, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Matthew Benjamin Therapy
Psychotherapist, BACP
Verified Verified
London N2
As a psychotherapeutic counsellor, I will encourage awareness, and facilitate change, using transactional analysis psychotherapy tools and drawing on my rich personal life experience and previous work with clients. I work with a broad range of clients who come to me with anxiety, depression, addiction, grief and loss, relationship, work issues, stress, and low self-esteem.
As a psychotherapeutic counsellor, I will encourage awareness, and facilitate change, using transactional analysis psychotherapy tools and drawing on my rich personal life experience and previous work with clients. I work with a broad range of clients who come to me with anxiety, depression, addiction, grief and loss, relationship, work issues, stress, and low self-esteem.
020 8106 5713 View 020 8106 5713
Photo of Lee Martin Mbacp(Sen Accred) Emdr(Accred) Ma Ba(Hons) Pg-Dip, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, 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 Lee Martin Mbacp(Sen.accred)Emdr(Accred) Ma Ba(Hons) Pg-Dip, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, 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 Brad McCaw, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Brad McCaw
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London SW4
If you are facing addiction, anxiety, depression or trauma, I am here to support you.
Entering therapy can feel like stepping into the unknown. If you are considering therapy, here is a glimpse into what you can expect. My aim is to create a space of warmth and understanding. Our sessions together are a place free from judgment, where you can freely explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I’m here to help you understand what is bothering you and to navigate through any frustrations and challenges. We will explore understanding your whole self, your relationship to others and the outside world. By taking this holistic approach, we can uncover the roots of your struggles and gain meaningful insights.
If you are facing addiction, anxiety, depression or trauma, I am here to support you.
Entering therapy can feel like stepping into the unknown. If you are considering therapy, here is a glimpse into what you can expect. My aim is to create a space of warmth and understanding. Our sessions together are a place free from judgment, where you can freely explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I’m here to help you understand what is bothering you and to navigate through any frustrations and challenges. We will explore understanding your whole self, your relationship to others and the outside world. By taking this holistic approach, we can uncover the roots of your struggles and gain meaningful insights.
020 3871 0593 View 020 3871 0593
Photo of Fergus A Mooney, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Fergus A Mooney
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London SE11
The world can be frustrating when you get tangled up in unhealthy thinking patterns. You can feel lost, or overwhelmed, with moments of real darkness. That is where I can help. If you lose control of your anger or your anxiety holds you back, we can unpack what makes you tick. If you hide your emotions in harmful behaviour, we can uncover them. What I enjoy most is helping people to build healthy relationships with themselves and others. I used to this when working with the Prince's Trust and Mind, the leading UK mental health agency. This gave me insight into those dealing with addiction, anxiety and depression.
The world can be frustrating when you get tangled up in unhealthy thinking patterns. You can feel lost, or overwhelmed, with moments of real darkness. That is where I can help. If you lose control of your anger or your anxiety holds you back, we can unpack what makes you tick. If you hide your emotions in harmful behaviour, we can uncover them. What I enjoy most is helping people to build healthy relationships with themselves and others. I used to this when working with the Prince's Trust and Mind, the leading UK mental health agency. This gave me insight into those dealing with addiction, anxiety and depression.
020 3893 3563 View 020 3893 3563
Photo of Lee Martin Mbacp(Sen Accred) Emdr(Accred) Ma Ba(Hons) Pg-Dip, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Lee Martin Mbacp(Sen Accred) Emdr(Accred) Ma Ba(Hons) Pg-Dip
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
London W8  (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 6792 View 020 4538 6792
Photo of Lee Martin Mbacp(Sen Accred) Emdr(Accred) Ma Ba(Hons) Pg-Dip, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, 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 Dave Wilde, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Dave Wilde
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Swansea SA1
I specialise in complex PTSD, including sexual, emotional and physical abuse. I also have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorders and working with trainee counsellors and couples. I will work with you to explore your issues, and help you understand what changes you can make to feel better about yourself and your relationships. My background of working in the public and voluntary sectors, as well as teaching and student support in further and higher education, has given me over 20 years' experience of working with people who need help with with a range of mental health issues.
I specialise in complex PTSD, including sexual, emotional and physical abuse. I also have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorders and working with trainee counsellors and couples. I will work with you to explore your issues, and help you understand what changes you can make to feel better about yourself and your relationships. My background of working in the public and voluntary sectors, as well as teaching and student support in further and higher education, has given me over 20 years' experience of working with people who need help with with a range of mental health issues.
01792 720287 View 01792 720287
Photo of Nick Watts Online Counselling, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Nick Watts Online Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Dagenham RM9  (Online Only)
I've worked extensively with people whose childhood home was dominated by drug addiction, alcoholism, violence or neglect.
I currently live in Lyon, France, but I began my private Therapy work in Granton, Edinburgh. I still like to work with people ftom the area, Scotland, and the UK in general. I also work online with Anglophones living in Lyon and across France . My job is to help you to consider your past and present, to help you find happiness, meaning and purpose in your life and relationships. I can help you develop your own healing from within, to help you understand your own history, to discover new or hidden aspects to yourself, and to develop new ways of living more appropriately to how you best see yourself.
I've worked extensively with people whose childhood home was dominated by drug addiction, alcoholism, violence or neglect.
I currently live in Lyon, France, but I began my private Therapy work in Granton, Edinburgh. I still like to work with people ftom the area, Scotland, and the UK in general. I also work online with Anglophones living in Lyon and across France . My job is to help you to consider your past and present, to help you find happiness, meaning and purpose in your life and relationships. I can help you develop your own healing from within, to help you understand your own history, to discover new or hidden aspects to yourself, and to develop new ways of living more appropriately to how you best see yourself.
0131 357 6157 View 0131 357 6157
Photo of Ian Francis Mncs Accred, Counsellor in Cheltenham, England
Ian Francis Mncs Accred
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cambridge CB4
I love working with people who are openminded and honest and looking to improve their lives and explore some of their blocks. I have a lot of experience working with depression, anxiety, abuse, addiction and low self esteem. If you aren't happy with yourself or your life, I would love to find out why and help you to explore ways of making positive changes. I have transformed my life in a positive way so I speak from experience when I say radical transformation is possible if you are open to it. I offer a safe, non-judgemental space to talk about the things that are really important to you.
I love working with people who are openminded and honest and looking to improve their lives and explore some of their blocks. I have a lot of experience working with depression, anxiety, abuse, addiction and low self esteem. If you aren't happy with yourself or your life, I would love to find out why and help you to explore ways of making positive changes. I have transformed my life in a positive way so I speak from experience when I say radical transformation is possible if you are open to it. I offer a safe, non-judgemental space to talk about the things that are really important to you.
01223 658135 View 01223 658135
Photo of Kevin Scott, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Kevin Scott
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
London W4
Is there something troubling you? Something upsetting you? Something making you sad, anxious, angry, fearful, lonely or unheard? Have you lost someone you love or lost direction? Or is it something inside that you can’t fathom out, but is affecting your life? These feelings and many others are ones we all face during our lives and when they remain unaddressed they can lead to anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship problems, work issues, loss of self-confidence and self-esteem, or simply a feeling of being stuck. The good news is that therapy can help you explore one's issues you in a safe, caring and confidential space.
Is there something troubling you? Something upsetting you? Something making you sad, anxious, angry, fearful, lonely or unheard? Have you lost someone you love or lost direction? Or is it something inside that you can’t fathom out, but is affecting your life? These feelings and many others are ones we all face during our lives and when they remain unaddressed they can lead to anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship problems, work issues, loss of self-confidence and self-esteem, or simply a feeling of being stuck. The good news is that therapy can help you explore one's issues you in a safe, caring and confidential space.
020 3974 1328 View 020 3974 1328
Photo of Jason Oddi, Psychotherapist in Cheltenham, England
Jason Oddi
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, COSRT General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London NW1
As an Integrative Counsellor, Psychosexual & Relationship/Marriage therapist, I weave different therapies to support clients in their uniqueness to manage and heal from struggles that affect their emotional, and mental health & happiness. Ruptures in one's mental wellness can lead to stress, depression, anxiety, addiction, and sexual functioning/ identity concerns that hinder emotional self-esteem and ongoing happiness within and in our relationship with ourselves and others.
As an Integrative Counsellor, Psychosexual & Relationship/Marriage therapist, I weave different therapies to support clients in their uniqueness to manage and heal from struggles that affect their emotional, and mental health & happiness. Ruptures in one's mental wellness can lead to stress, depression, anxiety, addiction, and sexual functioning/ identity concerns that hinder emotional self-esteem and ongoing happiness within and in our relationship with ourselves and others.
020 8103 3827 View 020 8103 3827

See more therapy options for Cheltenham

Addiction Counsellors

What is the best therapy for addiction?

Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.

How long does therapy for addiction take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.

How effective is drug addiction treatment?

Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?

The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.