Photo of Joyce A Tinsley, MD, MS, Psychiatrist
Joyce A Tinsley
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Old Lyme, CT 06371
I bring experience and expertise through therapy & medication management. If your psychiatric medication does not relieve symptoms of depression, anxiety or mood instability, you may need a second opinion. Mindful moderation can help you cut down on drinking, stop smoking, or cope with binge eating. You don't have to do this alone. Another area I deal with is acceptance of aging. With older age comes more unwanted challenges than at any other phase of life. We don’t know what will alter our lives, nor when these changes may occur: illness, loss, memory or loneliness, I can help adapt and enjoy the pleasures that older age can bring.
I bring experience and expertise through therapy & medication management. If your psychiatric medication does not relieve symptoms of depression, anxiety or mood instability, you may need a second opinion. Mindful moderation can help you cut down on drinking, stop smoking, or cope with binge eating. You don't have to do this alone. Another area I deal with is acceptance of aging. With older age comes more unwanted challenges than at any other phase of life. We don’t know what will alter our lives, nor when these changes may occur: illness, loss, memory or loneliness, I can help adapt and enjoy the pleasures that older age can bring.
(860) 407-3994 View (860) 407-3994

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Theresa Antwi - Wholistic Perspective, PMHNP, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Wholistic Perspective
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP
Verified Verified
Niantic, CT 06357
Our clinical specialties include medication management, cognitive behavioral therapy, depression, mood disorders, stress management and anxiety, alcohol & drug addiction, trauma, and many more.
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering and at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Mental Health Practitioners, we are trained to provide mental health treatment via psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Here at Wholisitic Perspective, we have providers that have experience with children, adolescent and adult populations. At Wholistic Perspective we believe the patient is the expert and emphasize collaboration and communication to find the best treatment for you! We take a holistic approach to treatment and collaborate with other providers to ensure safety and accomplishment of treatment goals. We provide psychiatric evaluations to better understand diagnoses and medication management. We are also certified to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for posttraumatic stress disorder in adults.
Our clinical specialties include medication management, cognitive behavioral therapy, depression, mood disorders, stress management and anxiety, alcohol & drug addiction, trauma, and many more.
Unresolved emotional conflicts lie at the core of human suffering and at times life can be unusually painful, scary and confusing. We may feel anxious, sad, discouraged and alone and not know what to do. Talking things out with someone can help us become clearer about who we are, our strengths and also our self-defeating ways so we can move forward with an improved sense of self and direction. As a Mental Health Practitioners, we are trained to provide mental health treatment via psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. Here at Wholisitic Perspective, we have providers that have experience with children, adolescent and adult populations. At Wholistic Perspective we believe the patient is the expert and emphasize collaboration and communication to find the best treatment for you! We take a holistic approach to treatment and collaborate with other providers to ensure safety and accomplishment of treatment goals. We provide psychiatric evaluations to better understand diagnoses and medication management. We are also certified to provide evaluations for medical marijuana for posttraumatic stress disorder in adults.
(203) 433-6890 View (203) 433-6890
Photo of Stephanie Settevendemie, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephanie Settevendemie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Essex, CT 06426  (Online Only)
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, parenting problems, postpartum, school issues, grief, divorce, or even stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, parenting problems, postpartum, school issues, grief, divorce, or even stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
(860) 962-6389 View (860) 962-6389

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Shirley Joseph - Mindful Integrative Services, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mindful Integrative Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naugatuck, CT 06770  (Online Only)
I work to help individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and individuals who are actively recovering from substance abuse.
I work to help individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and individuals who are actively recovering from substance abuse.
(475) 242-8010 View (475) 242-8010
Photo of Aura Ardon - Dr. Aura Ardon - Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Aura Ardon - Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06810  (Online Only)
She works virtually and in person with children, teens, and adults to treat anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, Obsessive-compulsive disorder, substance use disorder, and many other mental health conditions.
Now accepting new Patients. Are you struggling to create meaningful relationships? Do you feel overwhelmed by the stressors of work and daily living? Do you have trouble caring for yourself because of your mental health? Is your family life unmanageable because of mental illness? You want to get your mental health back under control but feel stuck. As time passes you feel further and further from your goals. It’s time to find real solutions because you have a life to live. You don’t have to manage this alone. Working with a mental health expert who believes in a holistic approach to mental and physical wellness may be the missing
She works virtually and in person with children, teens, and adults to treat anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, Obsessive-compulsive disorder, substance use disorder, and many other mental health conditions.
Now accepting new Patients. Are you struggling to create meaningful relationships? Do you feel overwhelmed by the stressors of work and daily living? Do you have trouble caring for yourself because of your mental health? Is your family life unmanageable because of mental illness? You want to get your mental health back under control but feel stuck. As time passes you feel further and further from your goals. It’s time to find real solutions because you have a life to live. You don’t have to manage this alone. Working with a mental health expert who believes in a holistic approach to mental and physical wellness may be the missing
(203) 456-6989 View (203) 456-6989
Photo of Lyndsie Ryalls, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lyndsie Ryalls
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Southbury, CT 06488
I provide compassionate, respectful evaluation and psychopharmacologic treatment. I primarily work with adolescents and adults seeking medication evaluation and ongoing medication management for a range of issues including anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and comorbid mental health and substance abuse.
I provide compassionate, respectful evaluation and psychopharmacologic treatment. I primarily work with adolescents and adults seeking medication evaluation and ongoing medication management for a range of issues including anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and comorbid mental health and substance abuse.
(203) 889-9155 View (203) 889-9155
Photo of Lauren Falcone - Elevate Health and Wellness, AGNP-BC, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Elevate Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGNP-BC, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
Our practice is currently Accepting NEW patients. My name is Lauren Falcone and I am a Nurse Practitioner specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction by seamlessly combining lifestyle counseling and medication management. I work with both adolescents and adults, and take great pride in the comprehensive and thorough treatment I provide to each of my clients. In addition to receiving medication management at Elevate, clients are also able to participate in individual therapy, as well as our Intensive Outpatient Programs (we have Adult and Adolescent tracks). All services are in-network with insurance.
Our practice is currently Accepting NEW patients. My name is Lauren Falcone and I am a Nurse Practitioner specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction by seamlessly combining lifestyle counseling and medication management. I work with both adolescents and adults, and take great pride in the comprehensive and thorough treatment I provide to each of my clients. In addition to receiving medication management at Elevate, clients are also able to participate in individual therapy, as well as our Intensive Outpatient Programs (we have Adult and Adolescent tracks). All services are in-network with insurance.
(475) 242-8157 View (475) 242-8157
Photo of Sana Fuller, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sana Fuller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06830
What would you do if you were free from fear, ... addiction, ...jealousy? Professional insight helps to sort through feelings and unpack the thoughts that fuel them. Anxiety, depression, anger, and addiction are signals of conflicts, sometimes, subconscious. Let's read the signals with care and get to the bottom of it. Together, we will dive into the roots of the issues, providing a solid foundation for you to emerge stronger and wiser. Your journey toward strength and wisdom begins here!
What would you do if you were free from fear, ... addiction, ...jealousy? Professional insight helps to sort through feelings and unpack the thoughts that fuel them. Anxiety, depression, anger, and addiction are signals of conflicts, sometimes, subconscious. Let's read the signals with care and get to the bottom of it. Together, we will dive into the roots of the issues, providing a solid foundation for you to emerge stronger and wiser. Your journey toward strength and wisdom begins here!
(475) 264-6789 View (475) 264-6789
Photo of Dr. Sherry Lucke, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Sherry Lucke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Bethel, CT 06801  (Online Only)
Suboxone, Addiction, Substance Use, Alcohol Use, Moderation, Psychiatric Care, and Medications.
When I started working in healthcare as a cardiac nurse I saw the widespread effects of addiction. Since then, I’ve dedicated my career to helping people overcome substance use disorders. I use a compassionate and supportive approach along with the top medical interventions. The approach I take with clients has been influenced by my experience at the bedside as a clinical care nurse and my training as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. This enables me to support clients in their overall health as well as their behavioral health. Accepting new clients in CT and VA.
Suboxone, Addiction, Substance Use, Alcohol Use, Moderation, Psychiatric Care, and Medications.
When I started working in healthcare as a cardiac nurse I saw the widespread effects of addiction. Since then, I’ve dedicated my career to helping people overcome substance use disorders. I use a compassionate and supportive approach along with the top medical interventions. The approach I take with clients has been influenced by my experience at the bedside as a clinical care nurse and my training as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. This enables me to support clients in their overall health as well as their behavioral health. Accepting new clients in CT and VA.
(475) 267-1990 View (475) 267-1990
Photo of Yvonne Amune, PMHNP, APRN-BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Yvonne Amune
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06107  (Online Only)
My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.
My clinical focus is on holistic and patient centered care for adults and adolescents, with special attention given to treating ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. Further, I am trained in motivational interviewing which I find to be effective tools in understanding and treating these issues. I believe in taking a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to helping my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing.
(860) 846-4337 View (860) 846-4337
Photo of Violet Moses -  Light Of Mind Psychiatric Services , MSN , FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Light Of Mind Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06810  (Online Only)
Violet Moses MSN APRN FNP-C PMHNP-BC is a Nurse Practitioner with dual Board Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner living in Massachusetts. Currently, her focus is in psychiatry with specialties in addiction medicine and eating disorders. She has experience in treating adolescents and adults with dual diagnosis, anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, substance use disorder, binge eating disorder, and many other common mental health conditions.https://headway.co/providers/violet-moses?utm_source=pem&utm_medium=direct_link&utm_campaign=22260
Violet Moses MSN APRN FNP-C PMHNP-BC is a Nurse Practitioner with dual Board Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner living in Massachusetts. Currently, her focus is in psychiatry with specialties in addiction medicine and eating disorders. She has experience in treating adolescents and adults with dual diagnosis, anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar, substance use disorder, binge eating disorder, and many other common mental health conditions.https://headway.co/providers/violet-moses?utm_source=pem&utm_medium=direct_link&utm_campaign=22260
(413) 240-3650 View (413) 240-3650
Photo of Caroline Polsky, BS, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Caroline Polsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BS, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Farmington, CT 06032  (Online Only)
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner trained throughout the lifespan with an additional certification in addictions, I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults with mental health and/or substance use concerns. I am skilled in treating anxiety, trauma, and mood disorders. Whether you're not feeling like yourself or feeling like your anxieties are controlling you I can help. In order to provide the best quality treatment I look at the client as a whole from a holistic perspective and provide individualized treatment.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner trained throughout the lifespan with an additional certification in addictions, I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults with mental health and/or substance use concerns. I am skilled in treating anxiety, trauma, and mood disorders. Whether you're not feeling like yourself or feeling like your anxieties are controlling you I can help. In order to provide the best quality treatment I look at the client as a whole from a holistic perspective and provide individualized treatment.
(475) 405-2930 View (475) 405-2930
Photo of Edith Onua, PMHNP, FNP-BC, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Edith Onua
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, FNP
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06811  (Online Only)
Struggling with addiction or crippling anxiety? Need a mental health professional for compassionate support and medication management? Edith at SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services offers a safe space for those seeking relief from mental health challenges. Catering to clients 3+, she’s dedicated to understanding individual needs and delivering personalized care. If you're looking for a therapist who connects and guides you toward mental wellness, Edith is here to help.
Struggling with addiction or crippling anxiety? Need a mental health professional for compassionate support and medication management? Edith at SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services offers a safe space for those seeking relief from mental health challenges. Catering to clients 3+, she’s dedicated to understanding individual needs and delivering personalized care. If you're looking for a therapist who connects and guides you toward mental wellness, Edith is here to help.
(475) 348-7219 View (475) 348-7219
Photo of Njideka Ikeakor, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Njideka Ikeakor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hartford, CT 06105  (Online Only)
Mental health and substance abuse are my passion. With an extensive work history with special populations and covering the full spectrum of mental health issues. I provide medication management, counseling, assessments among other services. I'm committed to provide a highly professional, confidential service in an environment that is safe and promotes personal growth and healing. WITH 24/7 direct access for established patients.
Mental health and substance abuse are my passion. With an extensive work history with special populations and covering the full spectrum of mental health issues. I provide medication management, counseling, assessments among other services. I'm committed to provide a highly professional, confidential service in an environment that is safe and promotes personal growth and healing. WITH 24/7 direct access for established patients.
(860) 809-4318 View (860) 809-4318
Photo of Adrienne Hicks - Dr Adrienne Hicks, LLC, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Dr Adrienne Hicks, LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06518  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping patients with Addiction and Pain Management.
I treat patients with mental illnesses and manage general medical concerns.
I specialize in helping patients with Addiction and Pain Management.
I treat patients with mental illnesses and manage general medical concerns.
(203) 587-8295 View (203) 587-8295
Photo of Evelyn A Stephens MD PC, Psychiatrist
Evelyn A Stephens MD PC
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
Hi there, I have been trained to treat many psychiatric illnesses and issues, with both medication and therapy. The different types of therapy I use include DBT, CBT, supportive and psychodynamic therapy. My patient population ranges from children as young as 6 years old to adults. The majority of children I work with are struggling with anxiety or ADHD, often both. The adolescents and adults that I treat have a variety of issues, including anxiety, substance abuse, eating disorders and mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder.
Hi there, I have been trained to treat many psychiatric illnesses and issues, with both medication and therapy. The different types of therapy I use include DBT, CBT, supportive and psychodynamic therapy. My patient population ranges from children as young as 6 years old to adults. The majority of children I work with are struggling with anxiety or ADHD, often both. The adolescents and adults that I treat have a variety of issues, including anxiety, substance abuse, eating disorders and mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder.
(347) 508-8094 View (347) 508-8094
Photo of Beth Grunschel, MD, ScM, Psychiatrist
Beth Grunschel
Psychiatrist, MD, ScM
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CT 06824
I am a Yale-trained Psychiatrist double-boarded in Adult and Addiction Psychiatry as well as a Clinical Assistant Professor at Yale School of Medicine.
Are you looking for a psychiatrist who is equally skilled and passionate in the arts of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology (prescribing medications)? My clinical style is engaging, interactive, and nonjudgmental. Medications are available when appropriate/helpful, but are just one of the tools available. I am also well-versed in talk therapy approaches when medications are not indicated/desirable. I look forward to your teaching me about the many different pieces that make you you, including looking at your medical health and social/family structures. I look forward to working together to find the right approach for you.
I am a Yale-trained Psychiatrist double-boarded in Adult and Addiction Psychiatry as well as a Clinical Assistant Professor at Yale School of Medicine.
Are you looking for a psychiatrist who is equally skilled and passionate in the arts of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology (prescribing medications)? My clinical style is engaging, interactive, and nonjudgmental. Medications are available when appropriate/helpful, but are just one of the tools available. I am also well-versed in talk therapy approaches when medications are not indicated/desirable. I look forward to your teaching me about the many different pieces that make you you, including looking at your medical health and social/family structures. I look forward to working together to find the right approach for you.
(203) 909-6956 View (203) 909-6956
Photo of Rose Shea, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rose Shea
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stamford, CT 06905  (Online Only)
Welcome to your healing journey! I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing degree. I have over 15 years of experience as a nurse with the last 8 years focused on mental health and substance use. I pride myself in taking a humanistic, person-centered approach to helping individuals manage mental illness through psychopharmacological, psychotherapeutic, and lifestyle interventions. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to receive care. I provide a compassionate and supportive environment to work with my individuals to develop a plan of care.
Welcome to your healing journey! I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing degree. I have over 15 years of experience as a nurse with the last 8 years focused on mental health and substance use. I pride myself in taking a humanistic, person-centered approach to helping individuals manage mental illness through psychopharmacological, psychotherapeutic, and lifestyle interventions. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to receive care. I provide a compassionate and supportive environment to work with my individuals to develop a plan of care.
(475) 250-1908 View (475) 250-1908
Photo of Sarah L. Handler, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah L. Handler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
New Canaan, CT 06840
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in delivering comprehensive care to individuals at every life stage. My expertise lies in medication management, specifically addressing mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, substance use disorders, and eating disorders. Embracing a holistic philosophy, I personalize treatment approaches to align with each patient's unique requirements and desires. In addition to medication management, I am dedicated to supporting clients in recognizing and resolving other contributing factors influencing their mental well-being.
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in delivering comprehensive care to individuals at every life stage. My expertise lies in medication management, specifically addressing mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, substance use disorders, and eating disorders. Embracing a holistic philosophy, I personalize treatment approaches to align with each patient's unique requirements and desires. In addition to medication management, I am dedicated to supporting clients in recognizing and resolving other contributing factors influencing their mental well-being.
(475) 271-1924 View (475) 271-1924
Photo of Chengping Wang - WCT Health & Wellness, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
WCT Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Waterbury, CT 06705
Our specialities include, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, life transitions, life coaching, LGBTQIA+, adoption, depression, mood disorders, trauma/PTSD, substance misuse , personality disorders, schizophrenia, anger management , family conflict , couples counseling , grief/ loss and stressors of every day life.
Welcome! We are a group practice of 60 licensed counselors and medication providers. We have a multi disciplinary team which is trained in several models to tailor each of our clients needs. Our biggest focus, is you, our client. We provide family, couples and individual counseling. Medication management for psychiatry and also offer Primary Care Services.
Our specialities include, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, life transitions, life coaching, LGBTQIA+, adoption, depression, mood disorders, trauma/PTSD, substance misuse , personality disorders, schizophrenia, anger management , family conflict , couples counseling , grief/ loss and stressors of every day life.
Welcome! We are a group practice of 60 licensed counselors and medication providers. We have a multi disciplinary team which is trained in several models to tailor each of our clients needs. Our biggest focus, is you, our client. We provide family, couples and individual counseling. Medication management for psychiatry and also offer Primary Care Services.
(203) 916-4595 View (203) 916-4595

See more therapy options for Old Lyme

Addiction Psychiatrists

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.