Addiction Counselling in Sheffield

Photo of Paul A Green, MBACP, Counsellor
Paul A Green
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S3
Therapeutic services ranges from DBT,Complex trauma, Behavioural therapy- Anxiety, Depression, Anger management, Abuse, Inner child trauma therapy, Couples and relationship counselling, Substance and Addiction abuse, Christian counselling or Spiritual and Holistic Care.
My role, as a psychodynamic therapist, is to provide an environment that is confidential and safe. This is why I do what I do. I provide an outside perspective to help you understand how your past influences present behaviours; your use of defences to avoid reality and awareness of how unconscious reoccurrence operates in your life. With your assistance my aim is to develop different strategies in making better choices to existing problems and explore beliefs of past feelings, memories. This doesn’t mean all your life is broken, but certain grey areas compromising the relationships you’re having with self and others.
Therapeutic services ranges from DBT,Complex trauma, Behavioural therapy- Anxiety, Depression, Anger management, Abuse, Inner child trauma therapy, Couples and relationship counselling, Substance and Addiction abuse, Christian counselling or Spiritual and Holistic Care.
My role, as a psychodynamic therapist, is to provide an environment that is confidential and safe. This is why I do what I do. I provide an outside perspective to help you understand how your past influences present behaviours; your use of defences to avoid reality and awareness of how unconscious reoccurrence operates in your life. With your assistance my aim is to develop different strategies in making better choices to existing problems and explore beliefs of past feelings, memories. This doesn’t mean all your life is broken, but certain grey areas compromising the relationships you’re having with self and others.
01226 610188 View 01226 610188
Photo of Piotr Slaczka, MBACP, Counsellor
Piotr Slaczka
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S11  (Online Only)
In addition to private practice, I have long experience working as an addiction therapist with the NHS and counsellor at domestic abuse organizations.
I am an experienced integrative therapeutic counsellor and psychotherapist. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, addictions—including pornography addiction—eating disorders, and various compulsive behaviours. My approach is to provide a safe, confidential, and supportive environment where we can explore your challenges and work towards self-acceptance and meaningful change. My goal is to guide you towards clarity, helping you overcome obstacles and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life—the life you truly deserve.
In addition to private practice, I have long experience working as an addiction therapist with the NHS and counsellor at domestic abuse organizations.
I am an experienced integrative therapeutic counsellor and psychotherapist. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, addictions—including pornography addiction—eating disorders, and various compulsive behaviours. My approach is to provide a safe, confidential, and supportive environment where we can explore your challenges and work towards self-acceptance and meaningful change. My goal is to guide you towards clarity, helping you overcome obstacles and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life—the life you truly deserve.
0114 478 2063 View 0114 478 2063
Photo of Kate Green, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Kate Green
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S11
I have worked for many years as a specialist in alcohol and drug addiction I also have experience of working with other addictions, such as gambling and sex addiction.
I am a counsellor, psychotherapist and specialist in addictions of 35 years experience as a front-line practitioner working within the public sector. I can assist with a broad-spectrum of issues. I provide one to one counselling, couple and family therapy. I am experienced in working with adults of all ages and from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, sexual orientation, and physical and mental ability. It is my belief evidenced from my work with a great many unique and wonderful persons that all of us have the innate ability to heal ourselves. I see my role as merely an assistant in this self-healing process.
I have worked for many years as a specialist in alcohol and drug addiction I also have experience of working with other addictions, such as gambling and sex addiction.
I am a counsellor, psychotherapist and specialist in addictions of 35 years experience as a front-line practitioner working within the public sector. I can assist with a broad-spectrum of issues. I provide one to one counselling, couple and family therapy. I am experienced in working with adults of all ages and from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, sexual orientation, and physical and mental ability. It is my belief evidenced from my work with a great many unique and wonderful persons that all of us have the innate ability to heal ourselves. I see my role as merely an assistant in this self-healing process.
0114 478 2604 View 0114 478 2604
Photo of Melisa Adams, MSc, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Melisa Adams
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Sheffield S10  (Online Only)
I help individuals with a wide range of issues, I work with addiction (gambling, porn, spending, internet, drugs, and alcohol).
We are told how important exercise is for our physical well-being, your mental health is no different. Mental health and physical health are interconnected. Stress, anxiety, and depression can manifest as physical symptoms. So, maintaining good mental health can positively influence physical health. Therapy changes lives and for that reason, if you are unhappy, stressed, and not sure what to do, you need to remember that life is short, and you deserve to live the life you want. Put yourself first and do what makes you happy! I will help you become your own therapist, providing you with healthy tools and support tailored for you.
I help individuals with a wide range of issues, I work with addiction (gambling, porn, spending, internet, drugs, and alcohol).
We are told how important exercise is for our physical well-being, your mental health is no different. Mental health and physical health are interconnected. Stress, anxiety, and depression can manifest as physical symptoms. So, maintaining good mental health can positively influence physical health. Therapy changes lives and for that reason, if you are unhappy, stressed, and not sure what to do, you need to remember that life is short, and you deserve to live the life you want. Put yourself first and do what makes you happy! I will help you become your own therapist, providing you with healthy tools and support tailored for you.
01302 490114 View 01302 490114
Photo of Simon Burgess, BACP, Counsellor
Simon Burgess
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S1
I am a BACP member with my own, very effective framework, for treating addiction.
I specialise in Addiction. I work with addictions to Gambling, Drugs and Alcohol. There is more at linkedin.com/in/simonburgess1 “The UK’s leading addiction therapist” where I’ve written over 40 articles covering many aspects of addiction and recovery.
I am a BACP member with my own, very effective framework, for treating addiction.
I specialise in Addiction. I work with addictions to Gambling, Drugs and Alcohol. There is more at linkedin.com/in/simonburgess1 “The UK’s leading addiction therapist” where I’ve written over 40 articles covering many aspects of addiction and recovery.
020 3962 1751 View 020 3962 1751
Photo of Haeran William Young - Evermore Therapies, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Evermore Therapies
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Sheffield S10
I frequently work with: ADHD, Alcohol Dependence, Anger, Anxiety, Debt Counselling, Depression, Domestic Abuse, Internet Addiction, Insomnia, Loss and Bereavement, OCD, Physical & Psychological abuse, PTSD, Rape, Self Development, Sexual Abuse, Sex Addiction, Self Harm, Self-esteem and confidence, Sleep issues, Stress, Trauma & work related issues.
I work with a wide variety of clients and utilise an integrative modality; meaning that I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches and techniques. These include CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), Person-Centred Therapy, Gestalt, Transactional Analysis and a number of others to meet each clients individual needs. No two clients are the same, therefore no two session plans are either. I work with each client towards their ideal goal and future self.
I frequently work with: ADHD, Alcohol Dependence, Anger, Anxiety, Debt Counselling, Depression, Domestic Abuse, Internet Addiction, Insomnia, Loss and Bereavement, OCD, Physical & Psychological abuse, PTSD, Rape, Self Development, Sexual Abuse, Sex Addiction, Self Harm, Self-esteem and confidence, Sleep issues, Stress, Trauma & work related issues.
I work with a wide variety of clients and utilise an integrative modality; meaning that I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches and techniques. These include CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), Person-Centred Therapy, Gestalt, Transactional Analysis and a number of others to meet each clients individual needs. No two clients are the same, therefore no two session plans are either. I work with each client towards their ideal goal and future self.
0114 697 4218 View 0114 697 4218
Photo of Tracy Simpson, MBACP, Counsellor
Tracy Simpson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S1
I am an experienced, well-established BACP registered and NCPS accredited counsellor and supervisor with 15 years of experience in private practice in Barnsley, South Yorkshire. I accept private clients, including those covered by BUPA and AVIVA, offering face-to-face and online sessions. Whilst my focus is on anxiety and stress management, I have extensive experience in supporting clients through issues related to abuse, addiction, and bereavement. I use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic modalities to help clients develop practical strategies to regain control of their lives and find peace.
I am an experienced, well-established BACP registered and NCPS accredited counsellor and supervisor with 15 years of experience in private practice in Barnsley, South Yorkshire. I accept private clients, including those covered by BUPA and AVIVA, offering face-to-face and online sessions. Whilst my focus is on anxiety and stress management, I have extensive experience in supporting clients through issues related to abuse, addiction, and bereavement. I use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic modalities to help clients develop practical strategies to regain control of their lives and find peace.
01226 448214 View 01226 448214
Photo of Ian Saunders - Integrative Counselling, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Integrative Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Sheffield S1  (Online Only)
I am an integrative counsellor and I specialize in drug and alcohol misuse and addiction issues.
Do you feel stuck or like you are not living up to your full potential? Are there areas of your life that are unresolved or seemingly out of your control? Have you developed addictive coping strategies to try and manage difficult thoughts, feelings and emotions? Are you in a place where you feel ready to access professional confidential support in a compassionate empathic and safe environment in order to free yourself and move forward to the next stage of your journey?
I am an integrative counsellor and I specialize in drug and alcohol misuse and addiction issues.
Do you feel stuck or like you are not living up to your full potential? Are there areas of your life that are unresolved or seemingly out of your control? Have you developed addictive coping strategies to try and manage difficult thoughts, feelings and emotions? Are you in a place where you feel ready to access professional confidential support in a compassionate empathic and safe environment in order to free yourself and move forward to the next stage of your journey?
01709 288050 View 01709 288050
Photo of Nicola Foster, MSc, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Nicola Foster
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Sheffield S1  (Online Only)
I have vast experience of working with, and successfully helping clients struggling with addiction, phobias, eating disorders or victims in domestic abuse relationships.
Life can be hard. An uphill struggle, and it can feel like you are on your own. You're not. We have all faced those tough, rough times and I have too. This is why I am looking forward to helping you overcome the barriers to your peace. There is little you can tell me that would shock or unsettle me, and I can be here to help you to get back on your feet. I am a positive, enthusiastic practitioner and an excellent listener. Together, we can work towards your ultimate goal; whether that be gaining confidence to work towards your dream job; or simply finding your smile again.
I have vast experience of working with, and successfully helping clients struggling with addiction, phobias, eating disorders or victims in domestic abuse relationships.
Life can be hard. An uphill struggle, and it can feel like you are on your own. You're not. We have all faced those tough, rough times and I have too. This is why I am looking forward to helping you overcome the barriers to your peace. There is little you can tell me that would shock or unsettle me, and I can be here to help you to get back on your feet. I am a positive, enthusiastic practitioner and an excellent listener. Together, we can work towards your ultimate goal; whether that be gaining confidence to work towards your dream job; or simply finding your smile again.
01482 425264 View 01482 425264
Photo of Rachel Watts, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Rachel Watts
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S12
I have undertaken additional training on addiction, trauma, loss, gender identity, and different ways of holding sessions such as creativite therapy including Sand Tray therapy.
We all need a place to be heard, to feel safe and to feel supported. I offer such a place, so that together we can reflect on what you are struggling with and what may have caused this struggle. Sessions will be focused on you and your aims whilst I offer a safe place for us to build trust, uncover obstacles, work to challenge perceptions and build your self awareness. The goal is that with self awareness, support and validation you will attain more autonomy and control and with it the ability to make changes or move on where you wish to. Talking therapy is a commitment, but if embraced fully it can be truly life changing
I have undertaken additional training on addiction, trauma, loss, gender identity, and different ways of holding sessions such as creativite therapy including Sand Tray therapy.
We all need a place to be heard, to feel safe and to feel supported. I offer such a place, so that together we can reflect on what you are struggling with and what may have caused this struggle. Sessions will be focused on you and your aims whilst I offer a safe place for us to build trust, uncover obstacles, work to challenge perceptions and build your self awareness. The goal is that with self awareness, support and validation you will attain more autonomy and control and with it the ability to make changes or move on where you wish to. Talking therapy is a commitment, but if embraced fully it can be truly life changing
0114 697 4839 View 0114 697 4839
Mary Louise Carr
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Sheffield S10
Clients coming to see me have usually lost confidence in themselves-some have never had it. They want to feel more positive about their current situation and have a hopeful outlook for the future. Low mood and anxiety can arise for many reasons-sometimes we need to go back into earlier experiences to find out the cause. For others there has been a significant loss-of employment-or the death of a person close to them. All these things trigger a sense of insecurity and struggling to manage we can develop unhelpful behaviours -maybe we drink or eat too much or hurt ourselves in other ways. Counselling helps us find healthier options
Clients coming to see me have usually lost confidence in themselves-some have never had it. They want to feel more positive about their current situation and have a hopeful outlook for the future. Low mood and anxiety can arise for many reasons-sometimes we need to go back into earlier experiences to find out the cause. For others there has been a significant loss-of employment-or the death of a person close to them. All these things trigger a sense of insecurity and struggling to manage we can develop unhelpful behaviours -maybe we drink or eat too much or hurt ourselves in other ways. Counselling helps us find healthier options
0114 697 9979 View 0114 697 9979
Photo of Jeana Hallas - Jeana Hallas at Barnsley Hypnosis & Counselling, MSc, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Jeana Hallas at Barnsley Hypnosis & Counselling
Psychotherapist, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Sheffield S1
Most clients contact us with surface negative symptoms or challenges. Every client is totally unique, therefore our truly one-off, made-to-measure approach is needed and always provided. Most clients help us to slowly identify the real current trigger(s), creating the negative presenting symptoms or challenges. Finally, our last step in helping you gain a positive, confident and happier future, is to discover your deepest root causes, which created the very first trigger(s). To put it simply, our driving force from day one is to help you quickly ensure you gain much improved: thinking, feeling and behaviour.
Most clients contact us with surface negative symptoms or challenges. Every client is totally unique, therefore our truly one-off, made-to-measure approach is needed and always provided. Most clients help us to slowly identify the real current trigger(s), creating the negative presenting symptoms or challenges. Finally, our last step in helping you gain a positive, confident and happier future, is to discover your deepest root causes, which created the very first trigger(s). To put it simply, our driving force from day one is to help you quickly ensure you gain much improved: thinking, feeling and behaviour.
01226 337420 View 01226 337420
Photo of Catherine Beal, BACP, Counsellor
Catherine Beal
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S10
A very warm welcome, I have person centred counselling and psychotherapy sessions available within a week. I’m interested in what you need? Do you need to express what’s happening for you? Do you need some support to manage your thoughts and feelings? Life can be tough at times, are you feeling angry, sad, lonely, anxious, depressed, stressed, overwhelmed? Do you need to seek a way forward? I aim to offer a therapeutic relationship through a compassionate connection. I provide a non judgmental environment, free from evaluation. Whatever your facing, I will do my very best to support you, so that you don’t have to face things alone.
A very warm welcome, I have person centred counselling and psychotherapy sessions available within a week. I’m interested in what you need? Do you need to express what’s happening for you? Do you need some support to manage your thoughts and feelings? Life can be tough at times, are you feeling angry, sad, lonely, anxious, depressed, stressed, overwhelmed? Do you need to seek a way forward? I aim to offer a therapeutic relationship through a compassionate connection. I provide a non judgmental environment, free from evaluation. Whatever your facing, I will do my very best to support you, so that you don’t have to face things alone.
01653 919864 View 01653 919864
Photo of Matthew Dunn, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Matthew Dunn
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S11
I am an integrative psychotherapist and work with individuals aged 18+ for both short-term and open-ended therapy. People seek therapy for different reasons. Often it is because they feel stuck, stressed, overwhelmed or hurt. You might be struggling with a relationship, coping with stress or hoping to change a behaviour that is not working for you. When things are difficult, a psychotherapist can support you and help you to grow in whichever way is right for you. I won't tell you what to do, but I will support you to find a way forward for yourself. I am accredited by the UKCP and a member of the BACP.
I am an integrative psychotherapist and work with individuals aged 18+ for both short-term and open-ended therapy. People seek therapy for different reasons. Often it is because they feel stuck, stressed, overwhelmed or hurt. You might be struggling with a relationship, coping with stress or hoping to change a behaviour that is not working for you. When things are difficult, a psychotherapist can support you and help you to grow in whichever way is right for you. I won't tell you what to do, but I will support you to find a way forward for yourself. I am accredited by the UKCP and a member of the BACP.
0114 303 1141 View 0114 303 1141
Photo of Hayley Janette Day - Day Psychology , HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Day Psychology
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Sheffield S10
Hello I’m Hayley, Clinical Psychologist based in Derbyshire and South Yorkshire with over 16 years of experience working in the NHS, independent health settings and the voluntary sector. Seeking help and beginning therapy can be a big step and can feel daunting. My goal is to offer you a supportive and understanding environment where you can freely explore and address your psychological concerns. I value the therapeutic relationship as being the key to therapeutic change and enjoy working collaboratively.
Hello I’m Hayley, Clinical Psychologist based in Derbyshire and South Yorkshire with over 16 years of experience working in the NHS, independent health settings and the voluntary sector. Seeking help and beginning therapy can be a big step and can feel daunting. My goal is to offer you a supportive and understanding environment where you can freely explore and address your psychological concerns. I value the therapeutic relationship as being the key to therapeutic change and enjoy working collaboratively.
01629 701540 View 01629 701540
Photo of Dr Angela Turner, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Angela Turner
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Sheffield S10
Hello, I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist, CAT Therapist and Coach. I am passionate about working with people in the way that they find most helpful. We can all find ourselves at a point in our lives when things are not how we’d like them to be. We can be caught up in negative patterns, experience difficult symptoms (such as struggling with sleep or anxiety, feeling low or stressed) and have difficulties with our relationships, work or our health. We may have experienced something traumatic or stressful that we struggle to cope with or find ourselves caught up in a negative situation that we don’t seem to be able to escape.
Hello, I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist, CAT Therapist and Coach. I am passionate about working with people in the way that they find most helpful. We can all find ourselves at a point in our lives when things are not how we’d like them to be. We can be caught up in negative patterns, experience difficult symptoms (such as struggling with sleep or anxiety, feeling low or stressed) and have difficulties with our relationships, work or our health. We may have experienced something traumatic or stressful that we struggle to cope with or find ourselves caught up in a negative situation that we don’t seem to be able to escape.
0114 303 2889 View 0114 303 2889
Photo of Karen ledger - Karen Ledger Ltd at KSL Consulting, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Karen Ledger Ltd at KSL Consulting
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S10
I am an experienced, therapist, executive coach and supervisor, having started my practice in 1995. I have been on the executive of the BACP and am a published author. My practice is informed by you about what you need and how you would like to work and I will provide the therapeutic relationship for you to get to where you want and need to be. We can work indoors (in Broomhill) or outdoors (at Ringinglow) in the countryside depending on what you prefer.
I am an experienced, therapist, executive coach and supervisor, having started my practice in 1995. I have been on the executive of the BACP and am a published author. My practice is informed by you about what you need and how you would like to work and I will provide the therapeutic relationship for you to get to where you want and need to be. We can work indoors (in Broomhill) or outdoors (at Ringinglow) in the countryside depending on what you prefer.
0114 697 3955 View 0114 697 3955
Photo of Danny Morley, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Danny Morley
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S1  (Online Only)
I am a BACP qualified Integrative Psychotherapist. My qualifications include two Masters degrees; one in MSc Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy and another in MSc Psychology and I hold a background in Sports Science. My modalities involve incorporating Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Attachment Theory and Person-Centred Approach. The Integrative approach is a holistic approach which allows therapy to be tailored to individual needs. I have worked in private practice, schools, sports settings and as a counselling lead in a specialist eating disorder organisation, amongst other settings.
I am a BACP qualified Integrative Psychotherapist. My qualifications include two Masters degrees; one in MSc Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy and another in MSc Psychology and I hold a background in Sports Science. My modalities involve incorporating Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Attachment Theory and Person-Centred Approach. The Integrative approach is a holistic approach which allows therapy to be tailored to individual needs. I have worked in private practice, schools, sports settings and as a counselling lead in a specialist eating disorder organisation, amongst other settings.
01623 392334 View 01623 392334
Photo of Lilian Clesham, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Lilian Clesham
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Sheffield S7
Welcome! . Life can be hard and challenging sometimes. The uncertain times we live give arise to anxiety, fear and often confusion. It might help to talk to explore your inner landscape and be supported in your understanding and choices that might be open to you. It takes courage sometimes to live life- change always take great courage. Psychotherapy is a collaborative journey where I help you into a different, perhaps more satisfying relationship with yourself. You might want to set goals, heal past hurts, find new ways of dealing the past and prepare for a different future.
Welcome! . Life can be hard and challenging sometimes. The uncertain times we live give arise to anxiety, fear and often confusion. It might help to talk to explore your inner landscape and be supported in your understanding and choices that might be open to you. It takes courage sometimes to live life- change always take great courage. Psychotherapy is a collaborative journey where I help you into a different, perhaps more satisfying relationship with yourself. You might want to set goals, heal past hurts, find new ways of dealing the past and prepare for a different future.
0114 553 1758 View 0114 553 1758
Photo of Carolyne Mulonga - Mukabo Road Safety, MSc, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Mukabo Road Safety
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Sheffield S5
"Having walked a certain path, as a Christian, my Faith in God and leaning on Him has been the greatest pillar I ever held on to experiencing my own post-traumatic growth. However, I value individual differences, respect, diversity, culture, integrity, honesty and ability to find your own path, grow, connect and build an enduring relationship. I firmly believe individuals can be empowered to find their own solutions. I am aware I might not have all the answers or solutions, but I could give one or two suggestions. I am happy to sit with people who find themselves in a dilemma, stuck in difficult and uncomfortable situations".
"Having walked a certain path, as a Christian, my Faith in God and leaning on Him has been the greatest pillar I ever held on to experiencing my own post-traumatic growth. However, I value individual differences, respect, diversity, culture, integrity, honesty and ability to find your own path, grow, connect and build an enduring relationship. I firmly believe individuals can be empowered to find their own solutions. I am aware I might not have all the answers or solutions, but I could give one or two suggestions. I am happy to sit with people who find themselves in a dilemma, stuck in difficult and uncomfortable situations".
01890 230058 View 01890 230058
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See more therapy options for Sheffield

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.