Addiction Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA

Photo of Chris Pagnani - Chris Pagnani MD PC, MD, Psychiatrist
Chris Pagnani MD PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Holistic approach, taking into consideration not only psychiatric illness but temperament, behaviors (such as substance use), life story, relationships and work.
Founder and Medical Director of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates - a network of over 20 psychiatric providers that are academically focused and utilize evidence based practice. In-office (Philadelphia, and The Main Line in Paoli, PA) and virtual Telehealth psychiatric appointments. We treat anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and ADHD. Child and adolescent psychiatric appointments. Fee for service practice, treating moderate levels of psychiatric illness for safety purposes (we do not have admitting privileges or a 24 hour emergency line). Board Certified and licensed in PA, NJ, NY, MD, DE, FL, CA. Visit www.RittenhousePA.com.
Holistic approach, taking into consideration not only psychiatric illness but temperament, behaviors (such as substance use), life story, relationships and work.
Founder and Medical Director of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates - a network of over 20 psychiatric providers that are academically focused and utilize evidence based practice. In-office (Philadelphia, and The Main Line in Paoli, PA) and virtual Telehealth psychiatric appointments. We treat anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and ADHD. Child and adolescent psychiatric appointments. Fee for service practice, treating moderate levels of psychiatric illness for safety purposes (we do not have admitting privileges or a 24 hour emergency line). Board Certified and licensed in PA, NJ, NY, MD, DE, FL, CA. Visit www.RittenhousePA.com.
(267) 415-8618 View (267) 415-8618
Photo of Domonique Louis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Domonique Louis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Domonique remains deeply versed in general psychiatry, guiding treatment of general mental health disorders, substance use disorders (stimulant, alcohol, sedative, cannabis, and opioids), severe mental illnesses, bipolar disorders, and non- substance use addictions.
As a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Domonique Louis APRN, PMHNP-BC has forged a distinguished career, blending academic excellence, community nursing, and synthesis of groundbreaking research in the field of psychiatry. She began her academic journey at the University of Memphis studying the development, structure and functioning of human society followed by a baccalaureate degree in nursing at Union University in Tennessee, laying the foundation for her passion for healthcare.
Domonique remains deeply versed in general psychiatry, guiding treatment of general mental health disorders, substance use disorders (stimulant, alcohol, sedative, cannabis, and opioids), severe mental illnesses, bipolar disorders, and non- substance use addictions.
As a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Domonique Louis APRN, PMHNP-BC has forged a distinguished career, blending academic excellence, community nursing, and synthesis of groundbreaking research in the field of psychiatry. She began her academic journey at the University of Memphis studying the development, structure and functioning of human society followed by a baccalaureate degree in nursing at Union University in Tennessee, laying the foundation for her passion for healthcare.
(484) 613-3408 View (484) 613-3408
Photo of Brian Frankel, MD, Psychiatrist
Brian Frankel
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I offer medication management, psychotherapy, and addiction treatment services including Suboxone maintenance and safe tapering of benzodiazepines and other addictive substances.
Mental suffering is often neither simple nor obvious to others. My primary aim is to help alleviate that suffering, and I recognize how important a personalized and collaborative approach is in this work. Psychiatric medication and psychotherapy are powerful tools that can promote well-being and I enjoy working in both modalities to provide a tailored treatment plan as well as foster greater understanding and growth. After completing my training at Yale I have worked in multiple treatment settings, which has broadened my perspective and helped me be attuned to each patient on an individual level.
I offer medication management, psychotherapy, and addiction treatment services including Suboxone maintenance and safe tapering of benzodiazepines and other addictive substances.
Mental suffering is often neither simple nor obvious to others. My primary aim is to help alleviate that suffering, and I recognize how important a personalized and collaborative approach is in this work. Psychiatric medication and psychotherapy are powerful tools that can promote well-being and I enjoy working in both modalities to provide a tailored treatment plan as well as foster greater understanding and growth. After completing my training at Yale I have worked in multiple treatment settings, which has broadened my perspective and helped me be attuned to each patient on an individual level.
(267) 214-3177 View (267) 214-3177
Photo of Rhonda Cornitcher, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Rhonda Cornitcher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I currently work in an outpatient setting serving community members who are struggling with addiction and mental health issues.
Hello, my name is Rhonda Cornitcher, I am a PMHNP-BC. I have been working in the mental health field for the past 20 years. I obtained my graduate degree from Grand Canyon University in 2016.
I currently work in an outpatient setting serving community members who are struggling with addiction and mental health issues.
Hello, my name is Rhonda Cornitcher, I am a PMHNP-BC. I have been working in the mental health field for the past 20 years. I obtained my graduate degree from Grand Canyon University in 2016.
(484) 562-4228 View (484) 562-4228
Photo of Dr. Thomas Driscoll, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Thomas Driscoll
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19144  (Online Only)
I treat an array of conditions, however, my specializations include mood disorders, psychotic disorders, and addiction.
My name is Thomas Driscoll, MD, and I am a board-certified psychiatrist offering medication management to adults.
I treat an array of conditions, however, my specializations include mood disorders, psychotic disorders, and addiction.
My name is Thomas Driscoll, MD, and I am a board-certified psychiatrist offering medication management to adults.
(973) 712-8447 View (973) 712-8447
Photo of William J Lorman, PhD, MSN, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
William J Lorman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, NP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19154
If you have mental health issues, if you have difficulty dealing with day-to-day functions, if you suffer from a substance use disorder, or you believe you can benefit from taking medication to help you deal with your life experiences, please contact me for an evaluation.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a psychoanalyst, I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication assessment, medication management and psychotherapy.
If you have mental health issues, if you have difficulty dealing with day-to-day functions, if you suffer from a substance use disorder, or you believe you can benefit from taking medication to help you deal with your life experiences, please contact me for an evaluation.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a psychoanalyst, I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication assessment, medication management and psychotherapy.
(267) 367-4904 View (267) 367-4904
Photo of Babatunde Adetunji - The Executive Center for Psychological Medicine, MD, Psychiatrist
The Executive Center for Psychological Medicine
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19019
Specialties • Depression • Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) • Trauma and PTSD • ADHD • Anxiety • Grief • Addiction • Medication Management • Stress • Testing and Evaluation • Trans Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) (coming soon) • Women's Issues • Mental Health • Mood Disorders Age groups: Children and adolescents, Adults and Elderly .
Dr. Adetunji is Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry, Forensic Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine and Psychological Medicine. He was trained in Psychiatry in England (At the prestigious Guys and St Thomas’s Hospital, London) as well as in USA (Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia). He completed fellowship training in Forensic Psychiatry at the New York University Medical Center. Dr Adetunji is well versed in addiction medicine and child and adolescent psychiatry. He is certified to prescribe Buprenorphine (Suboxone) for opioid addiction.
Specialties • Depression • Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) • Trauma and PTSD • ADHD • Anxiety • Grief • Addiction • Medication Management • Stress • Testing and Evaluation • Trans Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) (coming soon) • Women's Issues • Mental Health • Mood Disorders Age groups: Children and adolescents, Adults and Elderly .
Dr. Adetunji is Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry, Forensic Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine and Psychological Medicine. He was trained in Psychiatry in England (At the prestigious Guys and St Thomas’s Hospital, London) as well as in USA (Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia). He completed fellowship training in Forensic Psychiatry at the New York University Medical Center. Dr Adetunji is well versed in addiction medicine and child and adolescent psychiatry. He is certified to prescribe Buprenorphine (Suboxone) for opioid addiction.
(856) 619-8540 View (856) 619-8540
Photo of Lori A. Albright, CRNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lori A. Albright
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
My passion particularly lies with addiction and co-occurring disorder.
Hello! My practice is in Rittenhouse Square with Southeastern Executive Health, and I have immediate appointments available for in-office or telemedicine appointments for PA and NJ clients. Extensive experience utilizing an evidence based approach specializing in the care and medication management of individuals with mood disorders, psychosis, anxiety, depression, trauma, co-occurring disorders, and addiction. I practice while prioritizing the client-provider relationship and maximizing access and support. MAT provider. Spravato (esketamine) provider. Long term injectables are done in-office. Clients have my cell phone and email.
My passion particularly lies with addiction and co-occurring disorder.
Hello! My practice is in Rittenhouse Square with Southeastern Executive Health, and I have immediate appointments available for in-office or telemedicine appointments for PA and NJ clients. Extensive experience utilizing an evidence based approach specializing in the care and medication management of individuals with mood disorders, psychosis, anxiety, depression, trauma, co-occurring disorders, and addiction. I practice while prioritizing the client-provider relationship and maximizing access and support. MAT provider. Spravato (esketamine) provider. Long term injectables are done in-office. Clients have my cell phone and email.
(215) 789-4460 View (215) 789-4460
Photo of Dr. Jonathan A Beatty, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Jonathan A Beatty
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Our treatment team provides the most up-to-date and advanced treatments in psychiatry such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), Spravato/ketmine assisted psychotherapy, long-acting injectable meds for addiction like Vivitrol and Sublocade.
Accepting new patients treatment-resistant depression with TMS and Spravato/ketamine. We continue to offer harm reduction and medication options to meet your goals when struggling w/ substance dependence. Triple-board certified and provide a comprehensive medical approach and psychotherapy. Extensive experience treating the most complex issues that you are facing. I will help you to break down these issues and identify recurring themes that may be the barriers to your mental and physical wellness. Addiction is a medical disorder not a moral failure; together we will address the neurobiology of addiction AND its psychological impact.
Our treatment team provides the most up-to-date and advanced treatments in psychiatry such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), Spravato/ketmine assisted psychotherapy, long-acting injectable meds for addiction like Vivitrol and Sublocade.
Accepting new patients treatment-resistant depression with TMS and Spravato/ketamine. We continue to offer harm reduction and medication options to meet your goals when struggling w/ substance dependence. Triple-board certified and provide a comprehensive medical approach and psychotherapy. Extensive experience treating the most complex issues that you are facing. I will help you to break down these issues and identify recurring themes that may be the barriers to your mental and physical wellness. Addiction is a medical disorder not a moral failure; together we will address the neurobiology of addiction AND its psychological impact.
(610) 756-0432 View (610) 756-0432
Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
(267) 843-8820 View (267) 843-8820
Ayyappan Venkatraman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I am a general psychiatrist with a flexible approach to mental health that aims to combine the best of modern science and psychiatric medications (when needed) with talk therapy and spiritual healing. My aim as a clinician is to help people understand themselves better and feel more fulfilled, tailoring treatment to meet their unique history, circumstances and goals. I work with people 18 and older addressing a wide range of issues including mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, attention and learning issues, and addiction.
I am a general psychiatrist with a flexible approach to mental health that aims to combine the best of modern science and psychiatric medications (when needed) with talk therapy and spiritual healing. My aim as a clinician is to help people understand themselves better and feel more fulfilled, tailoring treatment to meet their unique history, circumstances and goals. I work with people 18 and older addressing a wide range of issues including mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, attention and learning issues, and addiction.
(215) 234-3966 View (215) 234-3966
Photo of Johanna Beck, MD, Psychiatrist
Johanna Beck
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19106
As an adult psychiatrist who has chosen to pursue further specialization in child and adolescent psychiatry, I provide medication management and psychotherapy to patients of all ages. I have expertise in women’s mental health, burn out, anxiety/OCD, mood disorders, ADHD, psychosis, PTSD, and addiction. As a former teacher, my goal is for my patients to feel understood, as well as to better understand their own conditions and their treatment. I have a particular interest in treating children, young adults/transitional age youth, and parents. I believe that for our children to do well, we must first support their caregivers.
As an adult psychiatrist who has chosen to pursue further specialization in child and adolescent psychiatry, I provide medication management and psychotherapy to patients of all ages. I have expertise in women’s mental health, burn out, anxiety/OCD, mood disorders, ADHD, psychosis, PTSD, and addiction. As a former teacher, my goal is for my patients to feel understood, as well as to better understand their own conditions and their treatment. I have a particular interest in treating children, young adults/transitional age youth, and parents. I believe that for our children to do well, we must first support their caregivers.
(484) 218-5501 View (484) 218-5501
Photo of Vincenzo R Sanguineti, MD, Psychiatrist
Vincenzo R Sanguineti
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107
My areas of expertise in Adult Psychiatry include: anxiety disorders (obsessive-compulsive, PTSD, dissociative disorders); depression (including atypical and treatment resistant subtypes); bipolar disorders; pain management and other medico-psychiatric conditions; addictions and substance abuse; problems of aging. By practicing for over 40 years I came to realize that every individual is able to change his or her way of thinking and feeling, provided the client is willing to do so. My role is to individualize which role medications and psychotherapy may play for each client, in which combination, and to act accordingly.
My areas of expertise in Adult Psychiatry include: anxiety disorders (obsessive-compulsive, PTSD, dissociative disorders); depression (including atypical and treatment resistant subtypes); bipolar disorders; pain management and other medico-psychiatric conditions; addictions and substance abuse; problems of aging. By practicing for over 40 years I came to realize that every individual is able to change his or her way of thinking and feeling, provided the client is willing to do so. My role is to individualize which role medications and psychotherapy may play for each client, in which combination, and to act accordingly.
(215) 995-0209 View (215) 995-0209
Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
(267) 641-2202 View (267) 641-2202
Photo of Catherine Mazzie, MSN , CRNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Catherine Mazzie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , CRNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Are you ready to start your journey toward becoming the best version of yourself? My clients experience a range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, adjustment disorder, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, or drug or alcohol addiction that leads them to feel disconnected from themselves or others. I am here to openly listen to your concerns, offer evidence-based treatment plans, practice cultural competence, and avoid making personal judgments.
Are you ready to start your journey toward becoming the best version of yourself? My clients experience a range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, adjustment disorder, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, or drug or alcohol addiction that leads them to feel disconnected from themselves or others. I am here to openly listen to your concerns, offer evidence-based treatment plans, practice cultural competence, and avoid making personal judgments.
(856) 291-9855 View (856) 291-9855
Photo of Samantha Wyckoff, MD, Psychiatrist
Samantha Wyckoff
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Substance use disorders are complex, multifactorial, and may be driven by underlying psychiatric disorders.
I am a fellowship-trained Addiction Psychiatrist offering virtual appointments for patients in Pennsylvania and in-person appointments for patients in Philadelphia. I have a special interest in working with individuals with co-morbid mental health and substance use disorders, and have extensive clinical experience treating a full range of psychiatric and substance use disorder diagnoses. I practice using a harm-reductionist approach and strive to work collaboratively with patients to help them achieve their goals, work through resistance, and develop motivation for behavioral change.
Substance use disorders are complex, multifactorial, and may be driven by underlying psychiatric disorders.
I am a fellowship-trained Addiction Psychiatrist offering virtual appointments for patients in Pennsylvania and in-person appointments for patients in Philadelphia. I have a special interest in working with individuals with co-morbid mental health and substance use disorders, and have extensive clinical experience treating a full range of psychiatric and substance use disorder diagnoses. I practice using a harm-reductionist approach and strive to work collaboratively with patients to help them achieve their goals, work through resistance, and develop motivation for behavioral change.
(484) 603-3959 View (484) 603-3959
Photo of Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I treat an array of psychiatric disorders, however my true passion is treating clients with Substance Use Disorders.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I treat an array of psychiatric disorders, however my true passion is treating clients with Substance Use Disorders.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
(267) 493-4369 View (267) 493-4369
Photo of Katelin Crane, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katelin Crane
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107  (Online Only)
I am dedicated to being the supportive relationship that you need to gain mastery of your mental health as you navigate life’s ups and downs. No matter what you are facing, whether it be depression, anxiety, trauma, mood swings, sleep troubles, substance use, or something else, I am here to help. Deciding to get help can be intimidating, but I am committed to helping you feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings, building confidence within vulnerability, and I will be there every step of the way.
I am dedicated to being the supportive relationship that you need to gain mastery of your mental health as you navigate life’s ups and downs. No matter what you are facing, whether it be depression, anxiety, trauma, mood swings, sleep troubles, substance use, or something else, I am here to help. Deciding to get help can be intimidating, but I am committed to helping you feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings, building confidence within vulnerability, and I will be there every step of the way.
(484) 263-5287 View (484) 263-5287
Photo of Nicole Schwartz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicole Schwartz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Nicole Schwartz, and for over two decades, I've dedicated my career to providing unwavering support and effective treatment for individuals navigating various behavioral health and addiction-related challenges. First as a therapist and now as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I've had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, and adults from diverse backgrounds.
Welcome! I'm Nicole Schwartz, and for over two decades, I've dedicated my career to providing unwavering support and effective treatment for individuals navigating various behavioral health and addiction-related challenges. First as a therapist and now as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I've had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, and adults from diverse backgrounds.
(484) 616-2793 View (484) 616-2793
Photo of Carolina Egbe Njikam, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carolina Egbe Njikam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in the states of Pennsylvania and Maryland, with over 10 years of nursing experience. I specialize in ADHD, psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, OCD-related issues, insomnia and sleeping disorders, and addiction issues. I have psychotherapy training and incorporate multiple modalities in my practice. I believe that the most important aspect of care is listening to every patient's unique story, and my goal is to create an environment built on safety and trust.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in the states of Pennsylvania and Maryland, with over 10 years of nursing experience. I specialize in ADHD, psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, OCD-related issues, insomnia and sleeping disorders, and addiction issues. I have psychotherapy training and incorporate multiple modalities in my practice. I believe that the most important aspect of care is listening to every patient's unique story, and my goal is to create an environment built on safety and trust.
(610) 347-5987 View (610) 347-5987
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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.