Addiction Counselling in Merchant City, Glasgow

Photo of Leeanne McKenna, Counsellor, MCOSCA
Leeanne McKenna
Counsellor, MCOSCA
Verified Verified
Merchant City, Glasgow G2
Waitlist for new clients
Integrative counselling can help with many challenges including anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, isolation, depression, problems at work, addiction, trauma, grief, coping with change, feeling stuck and relationship difficulties.
I believe that each person is unique and the expert of their own lived experience. As an integrative counsellor, I understand there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. Instead, I will work collaboratively with you to identify your preferences and goals, drawing on different theories and methods that are most helpful for you. I take a strengths-based approach, identifying and building on your existing skills and resourcefulness to bring about change. I will seek to co-create a respectful therapeutic relationship that provides the safety you need to explore the experiences that brought you to counselling.
Integrative counselling can help with many challenges including anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, isolation, depression, problems at work, addiction, trauma, grief, coping with change, feeling stuck and relationship difficulties.
I believe that each person is unique and the expert of their own lived experience. As an integrative counsellor, I understand there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. Instead, I will work collaboratively with you to identify your preferences and goals, drawing on different theories and methods that are most helpful for you. I take a strengths-based approach, identifying and building on your existing skills and resourcefulness to bring about change. I will seek to co-create a respectful therapeutic relationship that provides the safety you need to explore the experiences that brought you to counselling.
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Photo of Angela Stanton - Thoughts4change, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Thoughts4change
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have a broad range of experience in complex mental health, substance use, mood disorder, eating issues and issues related to life adjustment and relational issues.
Since I gained my SCOTACS Diploma in Counselling and Groupwork - a Cognitive Behavioural Approach. I wanted to provide the best service to my client so I followed this on with extensive further training within CBT where I achieved my accreditation as a Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist (BABCP). Throughout my work as a CBT practitioner I have acquired a broad and varied experience, starting my career working in drug and alcohol units, delivering substance misuse motivational work, group work and one to one sessions.
I have a broad range of experience in complex mental health, substance use, mood disorder, eating issues and issues related to life adjustment and relational issues.
Since I gained my SCOTACS Diploma in Counselling and Groupwork - a Cognitive Behavioural Approach. I wanted to provide the best service to my client so I followed this on with extensive further training within CBT where I achieved my accreditation as a Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist (BABCP). Throughout my work as a CBT practitioner I have acquired a broad and varied experience, starting my career working in drug and alcohol units, delivering substance misuse motivational work, group work and one to one sessions.
01475 601682 View 01475 601682
Photo of Janet Cameron, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Janet Cameron
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I work with a wide variety of issues, and specialise in Addiction/alcohol and substance misuse/gambling.
Hello I am Janet and I am an Integrative Therapist. If you have found your way to my page i imagine you are possibly feeling a little overwhelmed so i will tell you about my practice and what i offer. I provide a safe space to feel seen and heard and offer unconditional positive regard. Our work together will help you to access your own inner resources to empower you to have a better understanding and awareness of why you may currently feel stuck, identify where you ideally would like to be and how i can help you get there to allow you to lead a more fulfilling life and reach your full potential.
I work with a wide variety of issues, and specialise in Addiction/alcohol and substance misuse/gambling.
Hello I am Janet and I am an Integrative Therapist. If you have found your way to my page i imagine you are possibly feeling a little overwhelmed so i will tell you about my practice and what i offer. I provide a safe space to feel seen and heard and offer unconditional positive regard. Our work together will help you to access your own inner resources to empower you to have a better understanding and awareness of why you may currently feel stuck, identify where you ideally would like to be and how i can help you get there to allow you to lead a more fulfilling life and reach your full potential.
0141 673 3171 View 0141 673 3171
Photo of Graham Hill, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Graham Hill
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My specialities include trauma, coaching, addiction, mental health, burnout resolution, wellness, finding your purpose & spirituality.
Life is a challenging adventure on the ‘road less travelled’. I provide helpful guidance in an atmosphere of confidence, openness, trust, care, vigilance & respect. It is Ok to accept help; you will grow stronger, feel freer & more joyful. It is my vocation & honour to offer you all the space & time you need to share, vent, grieve, forgive and invigorate your Life! It will help you feel ‘seen’, ‘heard’, ‘valued’ & to ‘trust’ there is always support available to overcome challenges! I am committed to help you ground deep in your heart & soul, the resilience love & acceptance you need to move forward & be happy with yourself Now!
My specialities include trauma, coaching, addiction, mental health, burnout resolution, wellness, finding your purpose & spirituality.
Life is a challenging adventure on the ‘road less travelled’. I provide helpful guidance in an atmosphere of confidence, openness, trust, care, vigilance & respect. It is Ok to accept help; you will grow stronger, feel freer & more joyful. It is my vocation & honour to offer you all the space & time you need to share, vent, grieve, forgive and invigorate your Life! It will help you feel ‘seen’, ‘heard’, ‘valued’ & to ‘trust’ there is always support available to overcome challenges! I am committed to help you ground deep in your heart & soul, the resilience love & acceptance you need to move forward & be happy with yourself Now!
0141 465 5331 View 0141 465 5331
Photo of Alison Litster - Therapy With Alison, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Alison Litster - Therapy With Alison
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I've specialised in drug & alcohol addiction for many years.
Changing anything starts with the decision to try! That's not always easy, especially if psychological issues persist. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy aims to effectively address this as a specialised psychological approach. My extensive experience in psychological and psychiatric care assures you of a confidential & professional ear at all times. You have everything to gain by putting yourself first! Don't overthink it, ask and get supported to gain a fresh perspective to feel better within yourself.
I've specialised in drug & alcohol addiction for many years.
Changing anything starts with the decision to try! That's not always easy, especially if psychological issues persist. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy aims to effectively address this as a specialised psychological approach. My extensive experience in psychological and psychiatric care assures you of a confidential & professional ear at all times. You have everything to gain by putting yourself first! Don't overthink it, ask and get supported to gain a fresh perspective to feel better within yourself.
01546 799033 View 01546 799033
Photo of Rob Mclintock - Rob Mclintock CBT Therapist , Counsellor, BACP
Rob Mclintock CBT Therapist
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a qualified CBT therapist specializing in anxiety, performance, depression, and addiction, I am dedicated to helping clients overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
I specialize in supporting clients through challenges with anxiety, addiction, depression, and personal empowerment. Using strength-based CBT, I help clients identify their unique strengths, break negative patterns, and build resilience. My goal is to empower each person with practical tools and confidence for a healthier, more fulfilling life.
As a qualified CBT therapist specializing in anxiety, performance, depression, and addiction, I am dedicated to helping clients overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
I specialize in supporting clients through challenges with anxiety, addiction, depression, and personal empowerment. Using strength-based CBT, I help clients identify their unique strengths, break negative patterns, and build resilience. My goal is to empower each person with practical tools and confidence for a healthier, more fulfilling life.
0141 673 2880 View 0141 673 2880
Photo of Eleanor Parris, Counsellor, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Eleanor Parris
Counsellor, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Struggle with addiction, anxiety, shame or overwhelm?
I am a relational integrative therapist and believe that each client is unique, and that therapy needs a variety of techniques and tools suited to your individual needs. I work predominatnly using psychodynamic and humanistic traditions, however I can include somatic practices to release trauma stored in your body.
Struggle with addiction, anxiety, shame or overwhelm?
I am a relational integrative therapist and believe that each client is unique, and that therapy needs a variety of techniques and tools suited to your individual needs. I work predominatnly using psychodynamic and humanistic traditions, however I can include somatic practices to release trauma stored in your body.
0141 673 1149 View 0141 673 1149
Photo of Stacey-Jo Speirits - SJ Speirits CBT therapist , Psychotherapist, MBABCP
SJ Speirits CBT therapist
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I work frequently with clients struggling with ADHD, anxiety and worry often this can lead to low self esteem , I can help you address and substance use or behaviours and help you reframe negative or problematic thoughts.
Hi, I'm SJ a fully trained and insured Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where clients and therapists work together. My approach is rooted in CBT, a proven method for addressing a wide range of life's challenges. I strive to create a safe and inspiring space where you can develop the skills and strategies to work on whatever you may be struggling with. I am committed to making you feel at ease and helping you reach your goals. I can help you with Anxiety - Worry - Fears & Phobias - ADHD - Addictions - Low Self Esteem - Loss- Low Mood - Depression - OCD - Frustration - Anger
I work frequently with clients struggling with ADHD, anxiety and worry often this can lead to low self esteem , I can help you address and substance use or behaviours and help you reframe negative or problematic thoughts.
Hi, I'm SJ a fully trained and insured Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where clients and therapists work together. My approach is rooted in CBT, a proven method for addressing a wide range of life's challenges. I strive to create a safe and inspiring space where you can develop the skills and strategies to work on whatever you may be struggling with. I am committed to making you feel at ease and helping you reach your goals. I can help you with Anxiety - Worry - Fears & Phobias - ADHD - Addictions - Low Self Esteem - Loss- Low Mood - Depression - OCD - Frustration - Anger
0141 673 0799 View 0141 673 0799
Photo of Len Northfield, Counsellor, MBACP
Len Northfield
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Merchant City, Glasgow G2
I have experience working with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, family difficulties, stress, trauma, historical abuse, relationship difficulties, addiction problems, and self esteem issues.
It's OK to not be OK... Everyone struggles sometimes, and when we are struggling, one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves is to talk to someone about our struggles. My aim is to help you. I have experienced therapy from both sides of the equation and, like you, have struggled with my own difficulties. I believe that all of us have the potential to develop and become who we are supposed to be. Sometimes it takes some digging and self exploration to reach that goal, and I offer walk alongside you as you to do this.
I have experience working with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, family difficulties, stress, trauma, historical abuse, relationship difficulties, addiction problems, and self esteem issues.
It's OK to not be OK... Everyone struggles sometimes, and when we are struggling, one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves is to talk to someone about our struggles. My aim is to help you. I have experienced therapy from both sides of the equation and, like you, have struggled with my own difficulties. I believe that all of us have the potential to develop and become who we are supposed to be. Sometimes it takes some digging and self exploration to reach that goal, and I offer walk alongside you as you to do this.
01453 708524 View 01453 708524
Photo of Alison Brown, Counsellor, MBACP
Alison Brown
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merchant City, Glasgow G2
Previously I worked as a Registered Nurse for 30 years in the areas of cancer care, physical health, mental health, addiction and sexual health.
Feeling Overwhelmed? Let's Talk. Life can be full of unexpected twists and turns, leaving us feeling lost, anxious, or simply unsure of how to navigate challenging times. Whether you're dealing with a significant loss, relationship difficulties, or a personal crisis, you're not alone. In our sessions, we'll work together to: Understand your unique experiences: Explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours to gain a deeper understanding of yourself. Identify your goals: Discover what's truly important to you and create a personalised plan for moving forward.
Previously I worked as a Registered Nurse for 30 years in the areas of cancer care, physical health, mental health, addiction and sexual health.
Feeling Overwhelmed? Let's Talk. Life can be full of unexpected twists and turns, leaving us feeling lost, anxious, or simply unsure of how to navigate challenging times. Whether you're dealing with a significant loss, relationship difficulties, or a personal crisis, you're not alone. In our sessions, we'll work together to: Understand your unique experiences: Explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours to gain a deeper understanding of yourself. Identify your goals: Discover what's truly important to you and create a personalised plan for moving forward.
0141 465 5871 View 0141 465 5871
Photo of Kayleigh Rattray, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Kayleigh Rattray
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
With training in CBT, Person-Centred, Pluralistic and Psychodynamic approaches, I have extensive experience helping clients navigate challenges such as (but not limited to) addiction, bereavement, anxiety, trauma, and depression.
My Counselling practice is grounded in Person-Centred principles which focuses on the inherent worth and value of every individual. I understand each person has their own experiences and perspectives that shape their understanding of the world. My role is to provide you with support while we navigate the challenges you're facing.
With training in CBT, Person-Centred, Pluralistic and Psychodynamic approaches, I have extensive experience helping clients navigate challenges such as (but not limited to) addiction, bereavement, anxiety, trauma, and depression.
My Counselling practice is grounded in Person-Centred principles which focuses on the inherent worth and value of every individual. I understand each person has their own experiences and perspectives that shape their understanding of the world. My role is to provide you with support while we navigate the challenges you're facing.
0141 673 6147 View 0141 673 6147
Photo of Zara Mahon, Counsellor, BACP
Zara Mahon
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
However, I have worked with numerous individuals to improve their quality of life, addressing issues such as relationships, self-worth, addiction, body image issues, and career changes.
If you struggle with emotions (anger, resentment, grief, depression or anxiety) and want to work through emotional baggage, I could be the therapist to create a safe space where you can talk openly about what has happened in your life and figure out how to create a fulfilling life. This often involves working through core wounds such as abandonment and neglect, which can be challenging but ultimately reduces emotional suffering. People struggle with various emotions and thoughts, such as anxiety, depression and low self-esteem, and we are usually left overwhelmed with nowhere to go and no one to speak to.
However, I have worked with numerous individuals to improve their quality of life, addressing issues such as relationships, self-worth, addiction, body image issues, and career changes.
If you struggle with emotions (anger, resentment, grief, depression or anxiety) and want to work through emotional baggage, I could be the therapist to create a safe space where you can talk openly about what has happened in your life and figure out how to create a fulfilling life. This often involves working through core wounds such as abandonment and neglect, which can be challenging but ultimately reduces emotional suffering. People struggle with various emotions and thoughts, such as anxiety, depression and low self-esteem, and we are usually left overwhelmed with nowhere to go and no one to speak to.
0141 673 9630 View 0141 673 9630
Photo of Andrew Ellis, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Andrew Ellis
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I assist individuals experiencing a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, addiction, personality disorders, and anger management difficulties.
I am trained as a Counsellor, Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor. I am a firm believer that every individual is capable of taking positive steps in their lives and careers; however, this may not always be an easy task to undertake. Navigating a unique journey, encountering fears, worries, and complexities is challenging to do alone. At times, we all need a helping hand. As a counsellor, psychotherapist and supervisor it is my privilege to support others in navigating and overcoming these challenges.
I assist individuals experiencing a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, addiction, personality disorders, and anger management difficulties.
I am trained as a Counsellor, Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor. I am a firm believer that every individual is capable of taking positive steps in their lives and careers; however, this may not always be an easy task to undertake. Navigating a unique journey, encountering fears, worries, and complexities is challenging to do alone. At times, we all need a helping hand. As a counsellor, psychotherapist and supervisor it is my privilege to support others in navigating and overcoming these challenges.
0141 673 4896 View 0141 673 4896
Photo of Lesley Inglis - Lesley Inglis Supervisor, Psychotherapist, COSRT Accred
Lesley Inglis Supervisor
Psychotherapist, COSRT Accred
Verified Verified
Online Only
Specialities: Sex problems, addictions Porn/chat/fetishes traumatised partners Love addiction, Polyamory rels.
Hello, I am a widely experienced, Psychosexual Therapist/Supervisor. If you want to understand yourself better,/change unwanted behaviours to 'feel' better I would be delighted to receive an EMAIL from you. I work with common & also unusual Sex & Relationship difficulties & Mental health conditions . I assess you, help you identify goals & I review how you think our work is progressing. I explain the rational for my exploration & focus of the tasks I ask you to practice. I work collaboratively with you-as a team to reach your goals. Clients say this is a good way to work. I often see the funny side of life, when appropriate :-)
Specialities: Sex problems, addictions Porn/chat/fetishes traumatised partners Love addiction, Polyamory rels.
Hello, I am a widely experienced, Psychosexual Therapist/Supervisor. If you want to understand yourself better,/change unwanted behaviours to 'feel' better I would be delighted to receive an EMAIL from you. I work with common & also unusual Sex & Relationship difficulties & Mental health conditions . I assess you, help you identify goals & I review how you think our work is progressing. I explain the rational for my exploration & focus of the tasks I ask you to practice. I work collaboratively with you-as a team to reach your goals. Clients say this is a good way to work. I often see the funny side of life, when appropriate :-)
01573 400476 View 01573 400476
Photo of Maresa Louise Segura, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Maresa Louise Segura
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Many of my clients come to me because they face: Relationship, sex and family issues, anxieties and breakdown - Work and professional stress, anxiety and crisis - Alcoholism, drug dependency, sexual, relational and other addiction problems - Weight loss, smoking cessation and other life-goal issues - Eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating and other food dependency issues - LGBT, minority and other discrimination issues - Self-confidence, self-esteem and anxiety-related issues.
I serve all communities and all people in a non-judgemental way. I use an integrative approach putting the client, not the theory or philosophy, first. I am trained in Motivational Interviewing and Coaching for life-goal issues, as well as Integrative Psychotherapy (person-centred, existential, analysis, etc) for a host of mental wellbeing and health issues.
Many of my clients come to me because they face: Relationship, sex and family issues, anxieties and breakdown - Work and professional stress, anxiety and crisis - Alcoholism, drug dependency, sexual, relational and other addiction problems - Weight loss, smoking cessation and other life-goal issues - Eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating and other food dependency issues - LGBT, minority and other discrimination issues - Self-confidence, self-esteem and anxiety-related issues.
I serve all communities and all people in a non-judgemental way. I use an integrative approach putting the client, not the theory or philosophy, first. I am trained in Motivational Interviewing and Coaching for life-goal issues, as well as Integrative Psychotherapy (person-centred, existential, analysis, etc) for a host of mental wellbeing and health issues.
020 8103 0361 View 020 8103 0361
Photo of Brooke Hulsizer, Psychotherapist, MSc, PNCPS Acc.
Brooke Hulsizer
Psychotherapist, MSc, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My passions lie in working with people impacted by trauma, attachment disorders, relational distress, addiction, low mood, anxiety, and general unhappiness.
I am registered with the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) and I'm also a registered Social Worker with the Scottish Social services Council (SSSC). I'm a Certified Sex Addictions Therapist (CSAT) and EMDR-trained therapist as well.
My passions lie in working with people impacted by trauma, attachment disorders, relational distress, addiction, low mood, anxiety, and general unhappiness.
I am registered with the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS) and I'm also a registered Social Worker with the Scottish Social services Council (SSSC). I'm a Certified Sex Addictions Therapist (CSAT) and EMDR-trained therapist as well.
01456 494627 View 01456 494627
Photo of Sanika Ekbote, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, GMBPsS
Sanika Ekbote
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I bring experience from a range of settings & I have worked with adults, and older adults experiencing concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addiction, chronic pain & trauma.
As a South Asian therapist, I integrate cultural sensitivity into my practice, acknowledging the importance of identity, background, and lived experiences. I believe therapy is a collaborative process, where building a trusting therapeutic relationship is at the heart of creating meaningful change and breaking away from the cycle of anxiety and depression.
I bring experience from a range of settings & I have worked with adults, and older adults experiencing concerns such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addiction, chronic pain & trauma.
As a South Asian therapist, I integrate cultural sensitivity into my practice, acknowledging the importance of identity, background, and lived experiences. I believe therapy is a collaborative process, where building a trusting therapeutic relationship is at the heart of creating meaningful change and breaking away from the cycle of anxiety and depression.
0141 673 3420 View 0141 673 3420
Photo of Michael Alan Read, Counsellor, MBACP
Michael Alan Read
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have extensive work with Men's issues, addiction, and grief.
It can often be a bit of a struggle to take that first step into making contact with a counsellor, and it’s important that everyone who approaches my practice is treated with respect. Counselling allows us to explore and understand ourselves and work towards new ways of coping while improving our overall wellbeing in an environment where we feel safe and supported.
I have extensive work with Men's issues, addiction, and grief.
It can often be a bit of a struggle to take that first step into making contact with a counsellor, and it’s important that everyone who approaches my practice is treated with respect. Counselling allows us to explore and understand ourselves and work towards new ways of coping while improving our overall wellbeing in an environment where we feel safe and supported.
0141 673 1272 View 0141 673 1272
Photo of Dr David Cunningham - Counselling Psychology Scotland, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Counselling Psychology Scotland
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Serves Area
With over six years of experience in third-sector organisations and the NHS, I have helped clients navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, trauma, bereavement, cancer, addiction, suicidal thoughts, and gender identity issues.
I will take time to understand your difficulties and work with you to find the best approach by integrating several therapies and techniques. I’m committed to creating a respectful and safe space. I offer affirmative gender dysphoria assessments and diagnoses, as well as ADHD assessments and diagnoses and post-diagnosis support.
With over six years of experience in third-sector organisations and the NHS, I have helped clients navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, trauma, bereavement, cancer, addiction, suicidal thoughts, and gender identity issues.
I will take time to understand your difficulties and work with you to find the best approach by integrating several therapies and techniques. I’m committed to creating a respectful and safe space. I offer affirmative gender dysphoria assessments and diagnoses, as well as ADHD assessments and diagnoses and post-diagnosis support.
01479 787946 View 01479 787946
Photo of Joonas Pekka Vehvilainen, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Joonas Pekka Vehvilainen
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Are you struggling with substance or alcohol use, trauma and/or despair?
The core of the techniques provided by Cognitive Counselling are a collaborative approach to discovering what is contributing to the difficulties clients are seeking help for and resolving them. One of the most important aspects in being able to create change in ourselves, is the ability to acknowledge what needs to be changed.
Are you struggling with substance or alcohol use, trauma and/or despair?
The core of the techniques provided by Cognitive Counselling are a collaborative approach to discovering what is contributing to the difficulties clients are seeking help for and resolving them. One of the most important aspects in being able to create change in ourselves, is the ability to acknowledge what needs to be changed.
0131 381 4922 View 0131 381 4922
1

Nearby Addiction Counsellors Searches for Merchant City, Glasgow

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Addiction Counsellors

What is the best therapy for addiction?

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

How long does therapy for addiction take?

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

How effective is drug addiction treatment?

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

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?

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