Addiction Psychiatrists in Astoria, NY

Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist
Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11106
Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse.
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services via video across New York. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse.
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services via video across New York. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
(347) 744-9908 View (347) 744-9908
Photo of Nabil Rezk, MD, Psychiatrist
Nabil Rezk
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11103
Hello and welcome to my practice. I am Dr Rezk; Board Certified Psychiatrist. I graduated from Mount Sinai School of Medicine. I also did Psychodynamic psychotherapy fellowship at MSSM. My interest is towards my patients and my patients are my priority. I love my career and I love to take care of my patients. My 2 private Practice locations are at Bay Ridge BK and Astoria Queens which is very convenient and near transportation. We handle the work in a great team work manner and do great patients' care.
Hello and welcome to my practice. I am Dr Rezk; Board Certified Psychiatrist. I graduated from Mount Sinai School of Medicine. I also did Psychodynamic psychotherapy fellowship at MSSM. My interest is towards my patients and my patients are my priority. I love my career and I love to take care of my patients. My 2 private Practice locations are at Bay Ridge BK and Astoria Queens which is very convenient and near transportation. We handle the work in a great team work manner and do great patients' care.
(347) 609-7773 View (347) 609-7773
Photo of Gundu Reddy, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11106  (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar. The brain is a fragile organ and should be treated with respect.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar. The brain is a fragile organ and should be treated with respect.
(347) 921-9763 View (347) 921-9763
Photo of Shanyq Salop, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shanyq Salop
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11103  (Online Only)
I help women identified with anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, and especially postpartum struggles live a more complete life, build self-esteem and confidence, and improve overall mood and energy level. I use a combination of medication management and holistic approaches (treating you as a whole person- mind, and body) so that you can live the life you've always wanted. I approach each person with curiosity, empathy, and passion to help you live the life you deserve. ​​Psychotherapy, nutraceuticals, and relaxation techniques are combined with medication management when necessary.
I help women identified with anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, and especially postpartum struggles live a more complete life, build self-esteem and confidence, and improve overall mood and energy level. I use a combination of medication management and holistic approaches (treating you as a whole person- mind, and body) so that you can live the life you've always wanted. I approach each person with curiosity, empathy, and passion to help you live the life you deserve. ​​Psychotherapy, nutraceuticals, and relaxation techniques are combined with medication management when necessary.
(718) 866-3759 View (718) 866-3759
Photo of Mohammed Mazharuddin, MD, Psychiatrist
Mohammed Mazharuddin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11106  (Online Only)
In the realm of mental health, I am Dr. Mohammed Mazharuddin, a steadfast guide specializing in the intricate landscapes of anxiety, trauma, and mood disorders. Within my practice, I intertwine the wisdom of therapy with the science of medication, crafting bespoke paths toward holistic well-being.
In the realm of mental health, I am Dr. Mohammed Mazharuddin, a steadfast guide specializing in the intricate landscapes of anxiety, trauma, and mood disorders. Within my practice, I intertwine the wisdom of therapy with the science of medication, crafting bespoke paths toward holistic well-being.
(929) 930-4504 View (929) 930-4504

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Anil Thomas, MD, Psychiatrist
Anil Thomas
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
Dr. Thomas collaborates with clinicians like psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists who may have clients struggling with addiction. He can help with "low dose initiation," pain and addiction, methadone to buprenorphine conversions, and medication assisted treatment (MAT).
Dr. Thomas collaborates with clinicians like psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists who may have clients struggling with addiction. He can help with "low dose initiation," pain and addiction, methadone to buprenorphine conversions, and medication assisted treatment (MAT).
(929) 499-0706 View (929) 499-0706
Photo of Ijaz Rasul - Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services, MD, Psychiatrist
Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse.
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services via video across New York. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse.
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services via video across New York. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
(516) 701-3053 View (516) 701-3053
Photo of Aaron R Quiggle, MD, MS, Psychiatrist
Aaron R Quiggle
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10021
In addition to my private practice, I serve as the medical director of the Addiction Recovery Management Service at Massachusetts General Hospital and am on faculty at Harvard Medical School where I teach and supervise medical residents and fellows.
I am a Harvard, Columbia/Cornell, and UC San Francisco trained adult, child/adolescent, and addiction psychiatrist. In addition to treating mental health disorders across the lifespan (depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, for instance), I have particular expertise and experience in treating people of any age with co-occurring struggles with substances, such as opioids, methamphetamine, cocaine, benzodiazepines, cannabis, and alcohol.
In addition to my private practice, I serve as the medical director of the Addiction Recovery Management Service at Massachusetts General Hospital and am on faculty at Harvard Medical School where I teach and supervise medical residents and fellows.
I am a Harvard, Columbia/Cornell, and UC San Francisco trained adult, child/adolescent, and addiction psychiatrist. In addition to treating mental health disorders across the lifespan (depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, for instance), I have particular expertise and experience in treating people of any age with co-occurring struggles with substances, such as opioids, methamphetamine, cocaine, benzodiazepines, cannabis, and alcohol.
(781) 546-4986 View (781) 546-4986
Photo of Henry L McCurtis, MD, Psychiatrist
Henry L McCurtis
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10026
I am a psychiatrist, psychoanalyst, with a specialty in addiction psychiatry with an integrative psychiatry practice based on a diagnostic assessment and treatment guided by biological, psychological, social, and behavioral paradigms. I have a developmental orientation toward understanding human behavior. I have a special interest in attachment styles and their implications in interpersonal conflict in families and couples. I have a keen interest in the phase of life problems resulting in the major transitions in development such as the passage from adolescents to young adulthood, marriage, divorce, mid life adjustments, retirement, and grief and bereavement.
I am a psychiatrist, psychoanalyst, with a specialty in addiction psychiatry with an integrative psychiatry practice based on a diagnostic assessment and treatment guided by biological, psychological, social, and behavioral paradigms. I have a developmental orientation toward understanding human behavior. I have a special interest in attachment styles and their implications in interpersonal conflict in families and couples. I have a keen interest in the phase of life problems resulting in the major transitions in development such as the passage from adolescents to young adulthood, marriage, divorce, mid life adjustments, retirement, and grief and bereavement.
(646) 606-2965 View (646) 606-2965
Photo of Raymond Zakhari, DNP, EdM, PMHNP, FNP, ANP, Psychiatric Nurse
Raymond Zakhari
Psychiatric Nurse, DNP, EdM, PMHNP, FNP, ANP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10065
I assess and treat both physical and psychological issues such as dementia, chronic medical conditions, addiction, and sexual dysfunctions.
Are you a high net worth individual who seems to have it all but still struggles with depression, anxiety, sexual dysfunction, and relationship difficulties? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or frustrated because you are not living up to someone else’s standards? Are you just getting through the day, sifting through endless emails, texting, and doom-scrolling on social media? Do you wonder if this life is as good as it gets? Imagine moving past your past, finding new joy in living, facing your fears, overcoming difficulties, and having fulfilling relationships.
I assess and treat both physical and psychological issues such as dementia, chronic medical conditions, addiction, and sexual dysfunctions.
Are you a high net worth individual who seems to have it all but still struggles with depression, anxiety, sexual dysfunction, and relationship difficulties? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or frustrated because you are not living up to someone else’s standards? Are you just getting through the day, sifting through endless emails, texting, and doom-scrolling on social media? Do you wonder if this life is as good as it gets? Imagine moving past your past, finding new joy in living, facing your fears, overcoming difficulties, and having fulfilling relationships.
(718) 400-6848 View (718) 400-6848
Photo of Salman Abouzied - Empath Psychiatry, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Empath Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017  (Online Only)
Salman Abouzied is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in therapy and psycho-pharmacological treatment of Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder), Substance Recovery, Anxiety Disorders, Psychotic/Thought Disorders, Childhood ADHD/ADD, and management of psychiatric symptoms related to Autism Spectrum Disorder. A graduate of New York University, Mr. Abouzied has over 15 years of practice working in the field of mental health."
Salman Abouzied is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in therapy and psycho-pharmacological treatment of Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder), Substance Recovery, Anxiety Disorders, Psychotic/Thought Disorders, Childhood ADHD/ADD, and management of psychiatric symptoms related to Autism Spectrum Disorder. A graduate of New York University, Mr. Abouzied has over 15 years of practice working in the field of mental health."
(929) 547-7486 View (929) 547-7486
Photo of Doreen Zarfati, MD, Psychiatrist
Doreen Zarfati
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10036
I specializes in Adult ADD and addiction.
I am double board certified psychiatrist specializing in numerous psychiatric disorders as well as addiction disorders. I completed training at St. Lukes Roosevelt Hospital, Columbia and a specialty in Addiction at Beth Israel Hospital. For many years I was the Associate Director of the Psychiatric Emergency Department at Kings County Hospital and later became the Director of Woodhull Hospital in Brooklyn, NY. I have lectured about the many forms of addiction at conferences and participated in Grand Rounds for hospitals, discussing addiction and eating disorders.I am on the medical faculty at SUNY Downstate Hospital providing guidance, teaching and mentoring for psychiatric residents.
I specializes in Adult ADD and addiction.
I am double board certified psychiatrist specializing in numerous psychiatric disorders as well as addiction disorders. I completed training at St. Lukes Roosevelt Hospital, Columbia and a specialty in Addiction at Beth Israel Hospital. For many years I was the Associate Director of the Psychiatric Emergency Department at Kings County Hospital and later became the Director of Woodhull Hospital in Brooklyn, NY. I have lectured about the many forms of addiction at conferences and participated in Grand Rounds for hospitals, discussing addiction and eating disorders.I am on the medical faculty at SUNY Downstate Hospital providing guidance, teaching and mentoring for psychiatric residents.
(347) 848-1517 View (347) 848-1517
Photo of Jonathan Wai, MD, Psychiatrist
Jonathan Wai
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019
I am currently a research scientist at Columbia University Medical Center, investigating the neurobiological underpinnings of addiction to develop novel treatments and approaches.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who provides psychotherapy and medication for people seeking help with mental health, addiction, stress, life transitions, and other psychological issues. I use a mix of psychotherapeutic approaches with a focus on psychodynamic, person-centered, and cognitive behavioral therapies to tailor my treatment to each individual. I also employ mindfulness and meditation techniques to help with people feeling overwhelmed or are having trouble controlling their emotions.
I am currently a research scientist at Columbia University Medical Center, investigating the neurobiological underpinnings of addiction to develop novel treatments and approaches.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who provides psychotherapy and medication for people seeking help with mental health, addiction, stress, life transitions, and other psychological issues. I use a mix of psychotherapeutic approaches with a focus on psychodynamic, person-centered, and cognitive behavioral therapies to tailor my treatment to each individual. I also employ mindfulness and meditation techniques to help with people feeling overwhelmed or are having trouble controlling their emotions.
(914) 233-3472 View (914) 233-3472
Photo of Lisa Borg, MD, Psychiatrist
Lisa Borg
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10162
I specialize in cutting edge psychopharmacology and psychotherapy treatment for all psychiatric illnesses including all types of addiction problems.
I have extensive experience in sophisticated psychiatric evaluation and treatment in my private practice and am double board certified in general psychiatry and addiction psychiatry. I help my patients with problems such as mood disorders, anxiety, eating issues, ADHD and substance abuse. I am a graduate of Barnard Colllege at Columbia University and New York Medical College for my MD degree. I treat patients with state of the art medication and practical, effective psychotherapy including psychodynamic, CBT, motivational therapy and harm reduction approaches as well as abstinence goals.
I specialize in cutting edge psychopharmacology and psychotherapy treatment for all psychiatric illnesses including all types of addiction problems.
I have extensive experience in sophisticated psychiatric evaluation and treatment in my private practice and am double board certified in general psychiatry and addiction psychiatry. I help my patients with problems such as mood disorders, anxiety, eating issues, ADHD and substance abuse. I am a graduate of Barnard Colllege at Columbia University and New York Medical College for my MD degree. I treat patients with state of the art medication and practical, effective psychotherapy including psychodynamic, CBT, motivational therapy and harm reduction approaches as well as abstinence goals.
(917) 521-6356 View (917) 521-6356
Photo of Arthur Robin Williams, MD, MBE, Psychiatrist
Arthur Robin Williams
Psychiatrist, MD, MBE
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
I am a board certified psychiatrist, addiction psychiatrist, and NIH-funded research scientist at Columbia University Medical Center.
I specialize in working with patients with mood and anxiety disorders who have found that drugs and alcohol are worsening their ability to feel fulfilled, be productive, or thrive in healthy relationships. I use modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and relapse prevention (RPT) to help patients enhance their adaptive coping strategies in response to distress in life. When indicated, I also provide medication management to augment psychotherapy.
I am a board certified psychiatrist, addiction psychiatrist, and NIH-funded research scientist at Columbia University Medical Center.
I specialize in working with patients with mood and anxiety disorders who have found that drugs and alcohol are worsening their ability to feel fulfilled, be productive, or thrive in healthy relationships. I use modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and relapse prevention (RPT) to help patients enhance their adaptive coping strategies in response to distress in life. When indicated, I also provide medication management to augment psychotherapy.
(929) 207-6097 View (929) 207-6097
Photo of Edmund Azeriah Griffin - Edmund Griffin MD PhD, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Edmund Griffin MD PhD
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
I am an Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Columbia University. I specialize in the treatment of mood, anxiety, and ADHD disorders --particularly when associated with compulsive behaviors such as drug, alcohol or sex addiction. While I use diagnosis as a guidepost for evidenced-based recommendations, I believe strongly that diagnosis should not define you, or the work that we do together. I want to understand you as a person, your values, and your goals, so that we can develop an treatment that helps you to go beyond symptom management, to obtain your optimal sense of well-being and performance.
I am an Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Columbia University. I specialize in the treatment of mood, anxiety, and ADHD disorders --particularly when associated with compulsive behaviors such as drug, alcohol or sex addiction. While I use diagnosis as a guidepost for evidenced-based recommendations, I believe strongly that diagnosis should not define you, or the work that we do together. I want to understand you as a person, your values, and your goals, so that we can develop an treatment that helps you to go beyond symptom management, to obtain your optimal sense of well-being and performance.
(646) 798-7936 View (646) 798-7936
Photo of Evelyn Afif Stephens MD PC, Psychiatrist
Evelyn Afif Stephens MD PC
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10028
Hi there, I have been trained to treat many psychiatric illnesses and issues, with both medication and psychotherapy. The treatment I provide is often a unique combination which pulls from several different types of therapies, including interpersonal psychodynamic, supportive, DBT and CBT. 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 psychotherapy. The treatment I provide is often a unique combination which pulls from several different types of therapies, including interpersonal psychodynamic, supportive, DBT and CBT. 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) 632-9626 View (347) 632-9626
Photo of Derek Blevins, MD, Psychiatrist
Derek Blevins
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist and addiction psychiatrist. I completed training at the University of Virginia and Columbia University. I hold positions as an Assistant Professor at Columbia and a Research Psychiatrist at the New York State Psychiatric Institute. I have experience treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, ADHD/ADD, OCD, thought disorders, and addictions (including alcohol, opioids, stimulants, and cannabis). I can offer psychotherapy to some patients or will work closely with your current therapist. I directly supervise the psychotherapy practice of Bryan Leach, LMSW.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist and addiction psychiatrist. I completed training at the University of Virginia and Columbia University. I hold positions as an Assistant Professor at Columbia and a Research Psychiatrist at the New York State Psychiatric Institute. I have experience treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, ADHD/ADD, OCD, thought disorders, and addictions (including alcohol, opioids, stimulants, and cannabis). I can offer psychotherapy to some patients or will work closely with your current therapist. I directly supervise the psychotherapy practice of Bryan Leach, LMSW.
(914) 996-4641 View (914) 996-4641
Photo of Vasileios Panagopoulos, MD, Psychiatrist
Vasileios Panagopoulos
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10028  (Online Only)
I am enthusiastic about providing care for people who suffer from substance use disorders.
I am a double-board certified psychiatrist accepting new patients in California, Texas and New York. I work exclusively over telemedicine. I am happy to treat any mental health problem. I work outside of regular business hours, 5 am-8 am & 9 pm-1 am PST which typically works extremely well for the busy professionals population I take care of. You don't have to miss work to see your psychiatrist! I do not provide prescriptions for controlled substances due to restrictions related to practising over telemedicine but if needed I can make recommendations to your Primary Care Physician.
I am enthusiastic about providing care for people who suffer from substance use disorders.
I am a double-board certified psychiatrist accepting new patients in California, Texas and New York. I work exclusively over telemedicine. I am happy to treat any mental health problem. I work outside of regular business hours, 5 am-8 am & 9 pm-1 am PST which typically works extremely well for the busy professionals population I take care of. You don't have to miss work to see your psychiatrist! I do not provide prescriptions for controlled substances due to restrictions related to practising over telemedicine but if needed I can make recommendations to your Primary Care Physician.
(818) 960-6219 View (818) 960-6219
Photo of Lisa M Patrick, MD, Psychiatrist
Lisa M Patrick
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10075
I have completed both my psychiatry residency and addiction psychiatry fellowship at NYU School of Medicine.
I have extensive training in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. I prefer to see patients for both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, although I am open to working with other therapists. I have affiliation with both NYU and Lenox Hill Hospital and enjoy teaching both psychiatry residents and medical students as a voluntary attending. I provide patient focused therapy. I believe that everyone responds differently to different treatment and the best way to achieve their goals is to take a collaborative approach.
I have completed both my psychiatry residency and addiction psychiatry fellowship at NYU School of Medicine.
I have extensive training in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. I prefer to see patients for both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, although I am open to working with other therapists. I have affiliation with both NYU and Lenox Hill Hospital and enjoy teaching both psychiatry residents and medical students as a voluntary attending. I provide patient focused therapy. I believe that everyone responds differently to different treatment and the best way to achieve their goals is to take a collaborative approach.
(212) 717-4867 View (212) 717-4867
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.