Addiction Counselling in Hale Barns

Photo of Victoria Abadi, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Victoria Abadi
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Serves Area
Congratulations on taking the first step towards dealing with yours or a loved ones addiction.
I use a combination of skill sets to aid in full recovery from addiction and codependency. Combining mindfulness with traditional talking therapies helps us to be able to learn to sit with the discomfort of withdrawal and change. Addiction is always about reaching towards something to take away discomfort. Recovery is about learning new ways to self soothe.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards dealing with yours or a loved ones addiction.
I use a combination of skill sets to aid in full recovery from addiction and codependency. Combining mindfulness with traditional talking therapies helps us to be able to learn to sit with the discomfort of withdrawal and change. Addiction is always about reaching towards something to take away discomfort. Recovery is about learning new ways to self soothe.
07723 458498 View 07723 458498
Photo of Stephen Griffiths, Counsellor, MBACP
Stephen Griffiths
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with clients from all backgrounds but have particular experience working with Addiction and with LGBT+ issues.
My approach is person-centred and I offer a non-judgemental and neutral environment for you to explore any issues you feel you'd benefit from exploration around or additional support with. To make sure you feel comfortable working with me I offer an initial no obligation phone consultation.
I work with clients from all backgrounds but have particular experience working with Addiction and with LGBT+ issues.
My approach is person-centred and I offer a non-judgemental and neutral environment for you to explore any issues you feel you'd benefit from exploration around or additional support with. To make sure you feel comfortable working with me I offer an initial no obligation phone consultation.
01707 247146 View 01707 247146
Photo of Diane Swaine, Counsellor, MBACP
Diane Swaine
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
I am a fully qualified, trusted and caring Psychotherapist and Counsellor who cares passionately about helping people deal with a variety of issues. I have spent over 25 years counselling clients through the challenges presented by problems such as high anxiety and low self esteem. The most important part of my work is helping people to find and address the root causes of these issues, which my warm and authentic approach lends itself to naturally. I am committed to confidentiality and place the safeguarding and wellbeing of my clients above all else.
I am a fully qualified, trusted and caring Psychotherapist and Counsellor who cares passionately about helping people deal with a variety of issues. I have spent over 25 years counselling clients through the challenges presented by problems such as high anxiety and low self esteem. The most important part of my work is helping people to find and address the root causes of these issues, which my warm and authentic approach lends itself to naturally. I am committed to confidentiality and place the safeguarding and wellbeing of my clients above all else.
07782 393463 View 07782 393463
Photo of Alison Paul, Counsellor, MBACP
Alison Paul
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
Hi. My name is Alison. I am an adult and children and young person's counsellor. During our counselling sessions I will provide you with a non-judgemental and empathic space where we can work together to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours. I will offer empathy and be there as a listening ear to help you open up and discuss any issues and worries you wish to talk about. We will work at a suitable pace for you to help to understand and talk through the underlying reasons you may be feeling stuck or struggling in life. We’ll explore the past and present to help you to heal and become more self aware so you can move forward.
Hi. My name is Alison. I am an adult and children and young person's counsellor. During our counselling sessions I will provide you with a non-judgemental and empathic space where we can work together to explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours. I will offer empathy and be there as a listening ear to help you open up and discuss any issues and worries you wish to talk about. We will work at a suitable pace for you to help to understand and talk through the underlying reasons you may be feeling stuck or struggling in life. We’ll explore the past and present to help you to heal and become more self aware so you can move forward.
0161 524 1823 View 0161 524 1823
Photo of Nurjis Ahmed, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Nurjis Ahmed
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Serves Area
My experience has allowed me to help people who have suffered from a wide range of mental health conditions including eating disorders, self harm, substance abuse, gambling, depression, phobias and trauma.
I am a fully accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist working within IAPT and CAMHS. I have worked in Primary Care mental health services since 2010 in varying environments. Most recently I was a Senior Psychological Practitioner and CAMHS Specialist in Eating Disorders for the NHS, currently l am managing my own practice.
My experience has allowed me to help people who have suffered from a wide range of mental health conditions including eating disorders, self harm, substance abuse, gambling, depression, phobias and trauma.
I am a fully accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist working within IAPT and CAMHS. I have worked in Primary Care mental health services since 2010 in varying environments. Most recently I was a Senior Psychological Practitioner and CAMHS Specialist in Eating Disorders for the NHS, currently l am managing my own practice.
0161 524 1101 View 0161 524 1101
Photo of Judith Holland, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Judith Holland
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the most important aspect of therapy. To provide a space where you feel safe, respected and never judged. I am an trained in various therapies including cbt therapy. Sometimes life throws us a curve ball and getting up everyday and doing everyday things is a struggle sometimes we need someone to walk through the dark times with us and to remind us we are not alone and things can and will get better. I am also a qualified coach and work with women that have experienced abuse. Alongside my therapy practice, i am also a supervisor and have 22 years of experience supporting therapists.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the most important aspect of therapy. To provide a space where you feel safe, respected and never judged. I am an trained in various therapies including cbt therapy. Sometimes life throws us a curve ball and getting up everyday and doing everyday things is a struggle sometimes we need someone to walk through the dark times with us and to remind us we are not alone and things can and will get better. I am also a qualified coach and work with women that have experienced abuse. Alongside my therapy practice, i am also a supervisor and have 22 years of experience supporting therapists.
01744 415788 View 01744 415788
Photo of Dr Emma Solomon - Dr Emma Solomon, Consultant Clinical Psychologist , Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Emma Solomon, Consultant Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Need help to overcome symptoms of trauma or PTSD, recover from depression or low mood? Want to sleep better, deal with worry, or overcome anxiety, phobias or panic? Do you finally feel ready to release the root cause of your issues? Psychologists are trained in treatments that change the impact of negative events. We can’t change ‘what’ happens but we can change the effect it has on you. Bringing you back to confidence, calm and believing you are able to achieve your life goals. Whether you’ve had therapy before, or you’re only just starting, I can help. Set up a free consultation and I’ll explain how it can work for you.
Need help to overcome symptoms of trauma or PTSD, recover from depression or low mood? Want to sleep better, deal with worry, or overcome anxiety, phobias or panic? Do you finally feel ready to release the root cause of your issues? Psychologists are trained in treatments that change the impact of negative events. We can’t change ‘what’ happens but we can change the effect it has on you. Bringing you back to confidence, calm and believing you are able to achieve your life goals. Whether you’ve had therapy before, or you’re only just starting, I can help. Set up a free consultation and I’ll explain how it can work for you.
01625 786333 View 01625 786333
Photo of Jerri Trixie Prior - Prior Mindset , Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
Prior Mindset
Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have worked as a mental health practitioner for the last 16 years within Education, Private Sector, NHS, CAMHS, Adult Services, NSPCC, Substance Misuse, & LAC.
Are you feeling stuck or lost? attempting to find mental health or school support for your child, or your family unit? Are you struggling with NHS waiting lists for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or Autism and ADHD guidance? Attempting to navigate the complex health and educational system is stressful and confusing for most families. Well, I see YOU! I encourage and welcome you to get in touch with me. I am an NHS award-winning family mental health, and CBT practitioner, with 15 + years of experience. I am here to support you and your family unit through these difficult barriers; getting you back, on your road to recovery!
I have worked as a mental health practitioner for the last 16 years within Education, Private Sector, NHS, CAMHS, Adult Services, NSPCC, Substance Misuse, & LAC.
Are you feeling stuck or lost? attempting to find mental health or school support for your child, or your family unit? Are you struggling with NHS waiting lists for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or Autism and ADHD guidance? Attempting to navigate the complex health and educational system is stressful and confusing for most families. Well, I see YOU! I encourage and welcome you to get in touch with me. I am an NHS award-winning family mental health, and CBT practitioner, with 15 + years of experience. I am here to support you and your family unit through these difficult barriers; getting you back, on your road to recovery!
01706 335998 View 01706 335998

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Alison Edwards - Alison Edwards Therapy & ADHD Specialist, Psychologist, MSc, FMBPsS
Alison Edwards Therapy & ADHD Specialist
Psychologist, MSc, FMBPsS
Online Only
I also work with clients who have addictions, social phobia, depression, anxiety, panic, low self esteem, OCD, trauma, PTSD, Functional Neurological Disorders, chronic pain and chronic fatigue.
Choosing a therapist can be a stressful process, and it's difficult to decide which kind of therapy to try. Many people find it helpful to work with a therapist who has trained in more than one therapy, who can switch to a different therapy when needed, and who can tailor sessions according to your needs. My 16 years experience in supporting neurodivergent clients (with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia or other difficulties) led me to further training in 2021 in autism, and specialised CBT and ACT for ADHD and emotional regulation problems.
I also work with clients who have addictions, social phobia, depression, anxiety, panic, low self esteem, OCD, trauma, PTSD, Functional Neurological Disorders, chronic pain and chronic fatigue.
Choosing a therapist can be a stressful process, and it's difficult to decide which kind of therapy to try. Many people find it helpful to work with a therapist who has trained in more than one therapy, who can switch to a different therapy when needed, and who can tailor sessions according to your needs. My 16 years experience in supporting neurodivergent clients (with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia or other difficulties) led me to further training in 2021 in autism, and specialised CBT and ACT for ADHD and emotional regulation problems.
01392 321135 View 01392 321135
Photo of Natasha Roe, Counsellor, MBACP
Natasha Roe
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
I've worked with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction, low self-esteem, confidence, and relationship issues.
Are you ready to stop just surviving and start feeling more like yourself again? Or are you looking for the right support for your child or teenager? I work with adults and children & young people (10+) who want to move beyond anxiety, low mood, stress, and confidence issues. I offer a warm, non-judgemental space to build clarity and healthier ways of coping. Sessions are online, by phone, or in person in Manchester City Centre, Swinton, Prestwich, and Salford. Fees are £70 (50 mins) or £100 (90 mins). I accept Aviva and Vitality insurance (Vitality clients pay £25).
I've worked with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction, low self-esteem, confidence, and relationship issues.
Are you ready to stop just surviving and start feeling more like yourself again? Or are you looking for the right support for your child or teenager? I work with adults and children & young people (10+) who want to move beyond anxiety, low mood, stress, and confidence issues. I offer a warm, non-judgemental space to build clarity and healthier ways of coping. Sessions are online, by phone, or in person in Manchester City Centre, Swinton, Prestwich, and Salford. Fees are £70 (50 mins) or £100 (90 mins). I accept Aviva and Vitality insurance (Vitality clients pay £25).
0161 524 9801 View 0161 524 9801
Photo of Stephen Pattinson, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Stephen Pattinson
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Online Only
My work is holistic and person‑centred, helping you understand the emotional patterns behind your struggles, including addiction, so you can move forward with clarity, confidence, and compassion.
I offer a gentle, confidential space where you can slow down, breathe, and feel truly heard. If you’re carrying anxiety, low self‑esteem, depression, trauma, grief, or relationship pain, you don’t have to face it alone. With over 25 years’ experience in private and NHS settings, I bring warmth, steadiness, and compassion to help you make sense of what’s happening and reconnect with a stronger, calmer version of yourself.
My work is holistic and person‑centred, helping you understand the emotional patterns behind your struggles, including addiction, so you can move forward with clarity, confidence, and compassion.
I offer a gentle, confidential space where you can slow down, breathe, and feel truly heard. If you’re carrying anxiety, low self‑esteem, depression, trauma, grief, or relationship pain, you don’t have to face it alone. With over 25 years’ experience in private and NHS settings, I bring warmth, steadiness, and compassion to help you make sense of what’s happening and reconnect with a stronger, calmer version of yourself.
07380 316751 View 07380 316751
Photo of Louise Wright, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Louise Wright
Psychotherapist, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Congleton CW12
I am experienced in addictions, trauma, relationship and identity issues.
Are you stuck, bewildered, unable to work out what is happening? Do you find that confiding with friends and family isn't necessarily that helpful? It may be time to explore with someone with a different approach what can change. Do you want to move out of a current pattern of thinking or behaving? I work with a solution focus in some sessions when the goal is to move an obstacle that is often our thinking and responding. I can offer an empathic and safe environment to work through life changes and transitions such as loss and grief, divorce or betrayal. I work especially well with shame based thoughts and behaviours.
I am experienced in addictions, trauma, relationship and identity issues.
Are you stuck, bewildered, unable to work out what is happening? Do you find that confiding with friends and family isn't necessarily that helpful? It may be time to explore with someone with a different approach what can change. Do you want to move out of a current pattern of thinking or behaving? I work with a solution focus in some sessions when the goal is to move an obstacle that is often our thinking and responding. I can offer an empathic and safe environment to work through life changes and transitions such as loss and grief, divorce or betrayal. I work especially well with shame based thoughts and behaviours.
01260 540119 View 01260 540119
Photo of Lisa Marie Meakin - Euxton Counselling Service - Lisa Meakin, Counsellor, MBACP
* Anxiety/Stress* Depression* Bereavement* Sex Addiction* All forms of Abuse*Trauma *Relationship issues* Drug Abuse* Alcoholism* Baby an Birth issues* Food Addiction/ Eating Disorders* Family issues* Sexually issues* Suicidal thoughts* Anger Management* Phobias* OCD* Workplace Issues* Sadness* PTSD* Loneliness* Diagnosis* LGBTQ* Gender Issues* Self Harm*
I offer warm, respectful, non-judgemental space in which you can freely explore your thoughts and feelings, develop a greater understanding of yourself and start to move towards personal growth and an increased sense of well-being. ​ I am a qualified BACP, and work to a strict code of ethics. I believe you deserve to be happy and fulfilled in your life and that you have the ability to make that happen. Life can be challenging and difficult and i am trained to help you through your troubles and to support you making changes in you life.
* Anxiety/Stress* Depression* Bereavement* Sex Addiction* All forms of Abuse*Trauma *Relationship issues* Drug Abuse* Alcoholism* Baby an Birth issues* Food Addiction/ Eating Disorders* Family issues* Sexually issues* Suicidal thoughts* Anger Management* Phobias* OCD* Workplace Issues* Sadness* PTSD* Loneliness* Diagnosis* LGBTQ* Gender Issues* Self Harm*
I offer warm, respectful, non-judgemental space in which you can freely explore your thoughts and feelings, develop a greater understanding of yourself and start to move towards personal growth and an increased sense of well-being. ​ I am a qualified BACP, and work to a strict code of ethics. I believe you deserve to be happy and fulfilled in your life and that you have the ability to make that happen. Life can be challenging and difficult and i am trained to help you through your troubles and to support you making changes in you life.
01257 443774 View 01257 443774
Photo of Steve Ishmael - Cheshire Psychotherapies and Mental Health Ltd, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Cheshire Psychotherapies and Mental Health Ltd
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am an Accredited CBT Therapist, an Accredited Integrative Counsellor, EMDR Practitioner, Couple and Relationship Therapist, Mental Health Practitioner, and an experienced Clinical Supervisor. I am here to offer you the space to explore your feelings, wishes and situation. I work from the client's perspective and very experienced in working with a wide variety of people and issues. I am first and foremost a helper, someone you can trust and relate well with on any issue. Having worked in various IAPTs and CAMHS services across the United Kingdom and overseas am able to work collaboratively and offer bespoke interventions to help.
I am an Accredited CBT Therapist, an Accredited Integrative Counsellor, EMDR Practitioner, Couple and Relationship Therapist, Mental Health Practitioner, and an experienced Clinical Supervisor. I am here to offer you the space to explore your feelings, wishes and situation. I work from the client's perspective and very experienced in working with a wide variety of people and issues. I am first and foremost a helper, someone you can trust and relate well with on any issue. Having worked in various IAPTs and CAMHS services across the United Kingdom and overseas am able to work collaboratively and offer bespoke interventions to help.
0161 509 6596 View 0161 509 6596
Photo of Joshua Oliver Jake Corner, Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Joshua Oliver Jake Corner
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have a deep understanding of addiction, gained from three years of working with a substance misuse service.
My mission is to provide a compassionate and customised approach to integrative counselling, tailored to meet your specific needs. As an experienced counsellor, I draw from various therapeutic models to ensure that the approach we take together is as unique as you are. I use tools from psychodynamic therapy to explore the past, person-centred techniques for non-directive support, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to tackle problematic thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. At Evolve Health & Wellbeing, I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey to healing and growth.
I have a deep understanding of addiction, gained from three years of working with a substance misuse service.
My mission is to provide a compassionate and customised approach to integrative counselling, tailored to meet your specific needs. As an experienced counsellor, I draw from various therapeutic models to ensure that the approach we take together is as unique as you are. I use tools from psychodynamic therapy to explore the past, person-centred techniques for non-directive support, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to tackle problematic thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. At Evolve Health & Wellbeing, I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey to healing and growth.
0113 519 3167 View 0113 519 3167
Photo of Dr Maciej Iwanowicz, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Maciej Iwanowicz
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialise in mood and affective disorders, such as depression and anxiety, I work with trauma and addiction and I have many years of experience working with ADHD, and neurodiversity.
I am a counselling psychologist who has a broad experience in both psychology and psychotherapy. When working together I will always prioritise your individual needs. Even though I have my own style of therapy I will always make sure to collaborate with you and to be as flexible as needed so we are always on the same page when working together. I hope to create a non-judgemental, safe and hopefully very comfortable environment where you can feel heard and understood.
I specialise in mood and affective disorders, such as depression and anxiety, I work with trauma and addiction and I have many years of experience working with ADHD, and neurodiversity.
I am a counselling psychologist who has a broad experience in both psychology and psychotherapy. When working together I will always prioritise your individual needs. Even though I have my own style of therapy I will always make sure to collaborate with you and to be as flexible as needed so we are always on the same page when working together. I hope to create a non-judgemental, safe and hopefully very comfortable environment where you can feel heard and understood.
0141 280 6657 View 0141 280 6657
Photo of David Pringle, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
David Pringle
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Online Only
Hello, my name is David and I am an experienced therapist offering a safe, non-judgmental space to work through whatever it is that is troubling you. However big or small your problems may seem, you deserve to be listened to, and talking to a professional who is outside of your social and family circle can be an effective way of exploring your thoughts and feelings in a safe and respectful environment. If you are feeling stuck in your life and are experiencing low moods, anxiety or self-worth issues, please get in touch so we can get to work on making a positive change.
Hello, my name is David and I am an experienced therapist offering a safe, non-judgmental space to work through whatever it is that is troubling you. However big or small your problems may seem, you deserve to be listened to, and talking to a professional who is outside of your social and family circle can be an effective way of exploring your thoughts and feelings in a safe and respectful environment. If you are feeling stuck in your life and are experiencing low moods, anxiety or self-worth issues, please get in touch so we can get to work on making a positive change.
020 4538 0333 View 020 4538 0333
Photo of Rashida Mustafa, Psychotherapist, MA, GMBPsS
Rashida Mustafa
Psychotherapist, MA, GMBPsS
At this point in your life when you are looking for therapy, you may have a hunch that the burden you carry has grown too much to hold on your own and somebody needs to hear you out. Many conversations heal, but the difference between a psychologist and a friend is that looking at things with the tools and theories we have at our disposal can help you define the problem, perhaps reframe it and then resolve it. That is the starting point for feeling better. You may wonder whether anything can really help, because everything may seem complicated and deep, but the wonder of your own self is waiting for you to unfold.
At this point in your life when you are looking for therapy, you may have a hunch that the burden you carry has grown too much to hold on your own and somebody needs to hear you out. Many conversations heal, but the difference between a psychologist and a friend is that looking at things with the tools and theories we have at our disposal can help you define the problem, perhaps reframe it and then resolve it. That is the starting point for feeling better. You may wonder whether anything can really help, because everything may seem complicated and deep, but the wonder of your own self is waiting for you to unfold.
0161 850 5488 View 0161 850 5488
Photo of Heidi Francis, Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Heidi Francis
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Online Only
I am able to offer support for a wide range of issues including but not limited to : Addiction, , Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Domestic Violence, Depression and Anxiety, Low Self -Esteem, Relationship issues ,Grief and Loss, EUPD, NPD and DID.
Taking that first step to seek support from a therapist can be a daunting experience and many people can feel anxious discussing their struggles. Experiencing feelings of anxiety, depression, sadness, anger and stress or suffering from a constant low mood, can often lead to feeling bewildered and alone. So my aim is to provide a safe, warm and caring space in which together we can explore your struggles and you can gain a better understanding of yourself and your feelings, Together we can discover a way forward to a happier, calmer place, enabling you to build new beginnings.
I am able to offer support for a wide range of issues including but not limited to : Addiction, , Trauma, Sexual Abuse, Domestic Violence, Depression and Anxiety, Low Self -Esteem, Relationship issues ,Grief and Loss, EUPD, NPD and DID.
Taking that first step to seek support from a therapist can be a daunting experience and many people can feel anxious discussing their struggles. Experiencing feelings of anxiety, depression, sadness, anger and stress or suffering from a constant low mood, can often lead to feeling bewildered and alone. So my aim is to provide a safe, warm and caring space in which together we can explore your struggles and you can gain a better understanding of yourself and your feelings, Together we can discover a way forward to a happier, calmer place, enabling you to build new beginnings.
01536 609380 View 01536 609380
Photo of Danni Crayford, Counsellor, MBACP
Danni Crayford
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
Addiction Therapy - Practical, Structured Support for Change I work with people who feel caught in patterns they can't shift, helping them understand what's driving the behaviour and take realistic steps to regain control.
You may be noticing that drinking, compulsive habits, or other coping patterns are starting to feel harder to manage. Maybe you’re functioning on the outside, but inside you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or not quite like yourself. You may not be sure whether it is “serious enough” to get help, but you know it is affecting your mood, relationships, or sense of self. I offer structured, evidence-based therapy to help you understand the pattern, reduce overwhelm, and make practical changes that feel realistic.
Addiction Therapy - Practical, Structured Support for Change I work with people who feel caught in patterns they can't shift, helping them understand what's driving the behaviour and take realistic steps to regain control.
You may be noticing that drinking, compulsive habits, or other coping patterns are starting to feel harder to manage. Maybe you’re functioning on the outside, but inside you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or not quite like yourself. You may not be sure whether it is “serious enough” to get help, but you know it is affecting your mood, relationships, or sense of self. I offer structured, evidence-based therapy to help you understand the pattern, reduce overwhelm, and make practical changes that feel realistic.
01903 964749 View 01903 964749
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.