Photo of Tiffany Thomas, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91604, CA
Tiffany Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, CADC-II, LMFT
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
I specialize in toxic or abusive relationships, substance use, and grief and loss.
Do you often feel like no one understands you? Are you in a relationship where you are constantly trying to figure out what is going on? Are you confused as to why you feel unmotivated, have trouble sleeping, and aren't happy? I will help you feel less alone as well as guide you through a deeper understanding of what is happening for you. I am passionate about improving relationships, whether that's with friends, family or oneself. Most of us have a hard time identifying our emotions, or rely on feelings of happy, sad, mad to express ourselves. I will teach you how to recognize your emotions more accurately.
I specialize in toxic or abusive relationships, substance use, and grief and loss.
Do you often feel like no one understands you? Are you in a relationship where you are constantly trying to figure out what is going on? Are you confused as to why you feel unmotivated, have trouble sleeping, and aren't happy? I will help you feel less alone as well as guide you through a deeper understanding of what is happening for you. I am passionate about improving relationships, whether that's with friends, family or oneself. Most of us have a hard time identifying our emotions, or rely on feelings of happy, sad, mad to express ourselves. I will teach you how to recognize your emotions more accurately.
(747) 234-2902 View (747) 234-2902
Photo of Lynne Friedman-Gell, Psychologist in 91604, CA
Lynne Friedman-Gell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604
My expertise as a therapist is in creating a safe and trusting connection as the foundation of our work. Are you struggling with anxiety, addiction, trauma, depression or multiple issues? Through collaboration, attunement and curiosity, explore the life you want, what interferes with achieving it, and how life experiences influence relational dynamics and perceptions of the world. I support this process of exploration towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life, with healthier connections to self and others. Treatment focus is also on strengths and experiencing a sense of empowerment, resiliency, aliveness and joy in your life.
My expertise as a therapist is in creating a safe and trusting connection as the foundation of our work. Are you struggling with anxiety, addiction, trauma, depression or multiple issues? Through collaboration, attunement and curiosity, explore the life you want, what interferes with achieving it, and how life experiences influence relational dynamics and perceptions of the world. I support this process of exploration towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life, with healthier connections to self and others. Treatment focus is also on strengths and experiencing a sense of empowerment, resiliency, aliveness and joy in your life.
(424) 401-3705 View (424) 401-3705
Photo of Laura Calnan, Psychologist in 91604, CA
Laura Calnan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604
I also have a comprehensive understanding of the addiction/recovery process and the deeper work on self that is necessary for long-term recovery.
My goal in therapy is to facilitate self-exploration in an attempt to heal and make sense of difficult situations, emotional states and relationships. I do this by providing a safe space to explore, free of judgments and agendas. Many of us get stuck in particular patterns just like grooves in a record and we never get out of those patterns. Through work in therapy we can create new grooves that result in different responses to the situations, emotions and relationships of life. The aim of therapy is to develop an awareness of our cognitive, behavioral and emotional patterns so that we can change them. Teletherapy & sliding scale.
I also have a comprehensive understanding of the addiction/recovery process and the deeper work on self that is necessary for long-term recovery.
My goal in therapy is to facilitate self-exploration in an attempt to heal and make sense of difficult situations, emotional states and relationships. I do this by providing a safe space to explore, free of judgments and agendas. Many of us get stuck in particular patterns just like grooves in a record and we never get out of those patterns. Through work in therapy we can create new grooves that result in different responses to the situations, emotions and relationships of life. The aim of therapy is to develop an awareness of our cognitive, behavioral and emotional patterns so that we can change them. Teletherapy & sliding scale.
(818) 962-6449 View (818) 962-6449
Photo of Mindi Levins-Pfeifer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91604, CA
Mindi Levins-Pfeifer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
My specialty is building relationships and making clients feel safe in a space to share. I focus on 1:1 ,couples, families and groups. I am always looking to balance solution focused sessions with underlying clinical issues. Helping clients feel like they can get some relief early on in therapy is a priority. Anxiety, depression, addiction, family relation issues, life transitions and Covid are just some areas of work are that are my specialty. Whether you are comfortable free flow talking or need a more interview style, I am comfortable doing both. I also specialize in young adult and dual diagnosis.
My specialty is building relationships and making clients feel safe in a space to share. I focus on 1:1 ,couples, families and groups. I am always looking to balance solution focused sessions with underlying clinical issues. Helping clients feel like they can get some relief early on in therapy is a priority. Anxiety, depression, addiction, family relation issues, life transitions and Covid are just some areas of work are that are my specialty. Whether you are comfortable free flow talking or need a more interview style, I am comfortable doing both. I also specialize in young adult and dual diagnosis.
(323) 765-1139 View (323) 765-1139
Photo of Ryan P. Crowley, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91604, CA
Ryan P. Crowley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
Only the brave become wise. Wisdom is the most prized possession, yet few have it and we tend to imagine them as old, having learned from seasons of suffering and reflection. In my practice, I teach others how to understand themselves and become more wise, so that they can live well, without the pains of past or present experiences. Many seek me out to address trauma, addiction, severe anxiety, or relationship issues. These and other psychological experiences are opportunities for learning about the self and growing. And it is my experience that a child, adult, couple, or family can grow more wise together.
Only the brave become wise. Wisdom is the most prized possession, yet few have it and we tend to imagine them as old, having learned from seasons of suffering and reflection. In my practice, I teach others how to understand themselves and become more wise, so that they can live well, without the pains of past or present experiences. Many seek me out to address trauma, addiction, severe anxiety, or relationship issues. These and other psychological experiences are opportunities for learning about the self and growing. And it is my experience that a child, adult, couple, or family can grow more wise together.
(504) 920-5738 View (504) 920-5738
Photo of Elisabeth S Sadler, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91604, CA
Elisabeth S Sadler
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604
Are you looking for answers? Did you know that you have all the answers; all you need is within your grasp if you know where to look and how to access them. ANGER, ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, or SUBSTANCE ABUSE destroy the spirit of the person as well as their relationships. Finding your true authentic self requires only the repetition of new and productive behaviors for change. Call me and we can start today!
Are you looking for answers? Did you know that you have all the answers; all you need is within your grasp if you know where to look and how to access them. ANGER, ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, or SUBSTANCE ABUSE destroy the spirit of the person as well as their relationships. Finding your true authentic self requires only the repetition of new and productive behaviors for change. Call me and we can start today!
(818) 381-4959 View (818) 381-4959
Photo of Gali Barak, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91604, CA
Gali Barak
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604
In addition to working with depression, anxiety, life transitions, and relationships, these are a few of my specialties: Addiction, eating & body, parenting and infertility.
Sometimes it can feel like everyone else is doing so much better than you are. You might look around and wonder, why am I not where I thought I would be at in this point in my life? Am I not good enough, smart enough, or brave enough? Is there someone to blame? Is it because my body is broken, or my heart, or all of the above? I know that life is complex. I know that bravery and resilience come in many forms. I want to partner with you on this journey and help you remember things that you may have forgotten about yourself. I’ve witnessed people change their lives in ways that they would have thought were unimaginable. You can too.
In addition to working with depression, anxiety, life transitions, and relationships, these are a few of my specialties: Addiction, eating & body, parenting and infertility.
Sometimes it can feel like everyone else is doing so much better than you are. You might look around and wonder, why am I not where I thought I would be at in this point in my life? Am I not good enough, smart enough, or brave enough? Is there someone to blame? Is it because my body is broken, or my heart, or all of the above? I know that life is complex. I know that bravery and resilience come in many forms. I want to partner with you on this journey and help you remember things that you may have forgotten about yourself. I’ve witnessed people change their lives in ways that they would have thought were unimaginable. You can too.
(310) 622-9213 View (310) 622-9213
Photo of Allison D Baker, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91604, CA
Allison D Baker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604
I have a deep and personal connection to the addiction & recovery process.
The goal of therapy is to develop an awareness of our emotional patterns and recognize where they are not serving us. Many of us are operating within a problem saturated narrative that needs to be rewritten. It is my experience that the problems don’t occur in a bubble. I believe that issues are systemic, therefore I will often incorporate partners or members of the Family in the healing and growth process. I find my training in mediation practices further equip me to deal effectively with dysfunction family communication patterns.
I have a deep and personal connection to the addiction & recovery process.
The goal of therapy is to develop an awareness of our emotional patterns and recognize where they are not serving us. Many of us are operating within a problem saturated narrative that needs to be rewritten. It is my experience that the problems don’t occur in a bubble. I believe that issues are systemic, therefore I will often incorporate partners or members of the Family in the healing and growth process. I find my training in mediation practices further equip me to deal effectively with dysfunction family communication patterns.
(747) 233-1805 View (747) 233-1805
Photo of Lissa Khema Merkel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91604, CA
Lissa Khema Merkel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LAADC
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
Welcome! My approach is warm, personable and non-judgmental. I work collaboratively with clients to find real solutions that work for their lives. The focus is on you and together we can get you from where you are now to where you want to be! I have a lot of experience with addiction, depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. I am a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LAADC) in addition to being a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Assisting people who are struggling with difficult issues is the heart of what I love to do.
Welcome! My approach is warm, personable and non-judgmental. I work collaboratively with clients to find real solutions that work for their lives. The focus is on you and together we can get you from where you are now to where you want to be! I have a lot of experience with addiction, depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. I am a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LAADC) in addition to being a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Assisting people who are struggling with difficult issues is the heart of what I love to do.
(323) 701-0697 View (323) 701-0697
Photo of Barbara Wilson, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91604, CA
Barbara Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604
I have a lot of experience working with addiction and codependency.
I consider it a privilege and an honor to work with people who want to find balance in their lives. People come into therapy seeking help for a variety of problems. You may be in severe pain, suffering the effects of trauma, stressful events, ruptured relationships or addiction problems. You may need help to achieve healthy emotional boundaries with friends, loved ones, co-workers. Perhaps you wish to live a more full and satisfying life. While I typically draw from psychodynamic, family systems and relational/humanistic approaches, I am very flexible and tailor my approach to each individual.
I have a lot of experience working with addiction and codependency.
I consider it a privilege and an honor to work with people who want to find balance in their lives. People come into therapy seeking help for a variety of problems. You may be in severe pain, suffering the effects of trauma, stressful events, ruptured relationships or addiction problems. You may need help to achieve healthy emotional boundaries with friends, loved ones, co-workers. Perhaps you wish to live a more full and satisfying life. While I typically draw from psychodynamic, family systems and relational/humanistic approaches, I am very flexible and tailor my approach to each individual.
(310) 256-4815 View (310) 256-4815
Photo of Mercedes Coffman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91604, CA
Mercedes Coffman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
Are you feeling stressed, unmotivated, overwhelmed, or alone? Is your relationship missing the spark it once had? If you answered yes to any of these questions, we can start changing this today.My practice experience includes working with individuals, couples and families, who struggle with marital, self-esteem issues, addiction, trauma/PTSD, depression, anger, grief and loss, bipolar disorder, OCD, anxiety, and eating disorders. In therapy, we will identify the source of these issues, practice alternative coping skills, and learn how to live a healthy and fulfilling life.
Are you feeling stressed, unmotivated, overwhelmed, or alone? Is your relationship missing the spark it once had? If you answered yes to any of these questions, we can start changing this today.My practice experience includes working with individuals, couples and families, who struggle with marital, self-esteem issues, addiction, trauma/PTSD, depression, anger, grief and loss, bipolar disorder, OCD, anxiety, and eating disorders. In therapy, we will identify the source of these issues, practice alternative coping skills, and learn how to live a healthy and fulfilling life.
(818) 356-8093 View (818) 356-8093
Photo of Theresa J Leinweber, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91604, CA
Theresa J Leinweber
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
North Hollywood, CA 91604  (Online Only)
Available immediately. I work with people confronting the consequences of sexual addiction and compulsion. If you’re dealing with the shame of your own sexual behavior or suffering from the painful discovery of an addicted partner’s infidelity (again?), you have suffered enough. Betrayal trauma is all consuming. By booking a consultation with me to honestly confront the problem, you begin the process of restoring your sanity and sexual integrity. You’ll get empathy, understanding and safety to uncover feelings, secrets, lies and patterns that no longer serve you. Making informed decisions about your future begins here.
Available immediately. I work with people confronting the consequences of sexual addiction and compulsion. If you’re dealing with the shame of your own sexual behavior or suffering from the painful discovery of an addicted partner’s infidelity (again?), you have suffered enough. Betrayal trauma is all consuming. By booking a consultation with me to honestly confront the problem, you begin the process of restoring your sanity and sexual integrity. You’ll get empathy, understanding and safety to uncover feelings, secrets, lies and patterns that no longer serve you. Making informed decisions about your future begins here.
(818) 426-3311 View (818) 426-3311
Photo of Stephanie Kavoulakos, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91604, CA
Stephanie Kavoulakos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
Reaching out to a therapist can be a difficult step to take. I know the profound pain that can come with dealing with mental health challenges, including addiction...yours, or as a family member affected by another person's addictive behaviors. I understand how traumatic growing up with an alcoholic/addicted or a dysfunctional parent can be, or being involved in an unhealthy relationship. These experiences can lead to devastating feelings - shame, abandonment, depression, anxiety, isolation, anger, and much more. I invite you to share your feelings in a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel understood & heard.
Reaching out to a therapist can be a difficult step to take. I know the profound pain that can come with dealing with mental health challenges, including addiction...yours, or as a family member affected by another person's addictive behaviors. I understand how traumatic growing up with an alcoholic/addicted or a dysfunctional parent can be, or being involved in an unhealthy relationship. These experiences can lead to devastating feelings - shame, abandonment, depression, anxiety, isolation, anger, and much more. I invite you to share your feelings in a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel understood & heard.
(747) 207-4590 View (747) 207-4590
Photo of Amy Clayton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91604, CA
Amy Clayton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604
Clients bring a wide range of concerns to my office. They experience problems with addiction, depression, loss, grief, stress, relationship problems & family dynamics. Many of my clients are high achieving people struggling w/ a problem. I draw upon my clients' strengths to assist them with making meaningful changes that make a difference in their lives. Because medication combined with psychotherapy is sometimes necessary, I'm available for confidential consultation with your physician or psychiatrist. If you don't have one who can prescribe medication for you, I can provide you with referrals for an evaluation w/ a psychiatrist
Clients bring a wide range of concerns to my office. They experience problems with addiction, depression, loss, grief, stress, relationship problems & family dynamics. Many of my clients are high achieving people struggling w/ a problem. I draw upon my clients' strengths to assist them with making meaningful changes that make a difference in their lives. Because medication combined with psychotherapy is sometimes necessary, I'm available for confidential consultation with your physician or psychiatrist. If you don't have one who can prescribe medication for you, I can provide you with referrals for an evaluation w/ a psychiatrist
(818) 850-7094 View (818) 850-7094
Photo of Joanne Barron, Psychologist in 91604, CA
Joanne Barron
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604
I work with Complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety and addiction and see clients for a wide range of psychological disorders including; codependency, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues.
When life isn't going well, or you feel stuck, anxious, depressed or angry. Therapy may help you to move beyond patterns and circumstances that are causing distress. Those who have experienced trauma , childhood neglect or abuse can benefit from trauma focused therapy to help move beyond the past. Together we can explore what is keeping you from living the life you want, and work towards more fulfilling relationships , increased connection to self, and a deeper capacity for joy. Whether you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, panic, fear, addiction, numbness, isolation or depression therapy can help in facilitating change.
I work with Complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety and addiction and see clients for a wide range of psychological disorders including; codependency, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues.
When life isn't going well, or you feel stuck, anxious, depressed or angry. Therapy may help you to move beyond patterns and circumstances that are causing distress. Those who have experienced trauma , childhood neglect or abuse can benefit from trauma focused therapy to help move beyond the past. Together we can explore what is keeping you from living the life you want, and work towards more fulfilling relationships , increased connection to self, and a deeper capacity for joy. Whether you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, panic, fear, addiction, numbness, isolation or depression therapy can help in facilitating change.
(818) 616-6888 View (818) 616-6888
Photo of Jodi Milstein, LMFT, LPCC, and RockStarTherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91604, CA
Jodi Milstein, LMFT, LPCC, and RockStarTherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604
I have extensive experience working with clients dealing with addiction, substance abuse & dependence, eating disorders, relationship issues, depression, women's issues, life transitions.
Are you looking for a safe, nurturing, supportive environment where you can work on reaching a higher level of personal satisfaction, fulfillment and happiness? I support the idea that each individual has great freedom in directing his or her own future and resolving past issues as well as a large capacity for achieving personal growth. I believe it is important to remember that everyone's challenges and concerns are unique to them. I take a humanistic approach to psychotherapy. I am flexible in utilizing a variety of theoretical orientations depending upon the client, their personal issues, and communication style.
I have extensive experience working with clients dealing with addiction, substance abuse & dependence, eating disorders, relationship issues, depression, women's issues, life transitions.
Are you looking for a safe, nurturing, supportive environment where you can work on reaching a higher level of personal satisfaction, fulfillment and happiness? I support the idea that each individual has great freedom in directing his or her own future and resolving past issues as well as a large capacity for achieving personal growth. I believe it is important to remember that everyone's challenges and concerns are unique to them. I take a humanistic approach to psychotherapy. I am flexible in utilizing a variety of theoretical orientations depending upon the client, their personal issues, and communication style.
(818) 623-7222 View (818) 623-7222
Photo of Mercedes Cusick, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91604, CA
Mercedes Cusick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR, CATCIII
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
I specialize in various aspects of trauma; specifically complex trauma, sexual abuse, narcissistic abuse, and helping people thrive in addiction recovery.
As a trauma therapist, I understand your yearning for confidence, clarity, and purpose amid past trauma's shadows. The weight of defeat and overwhelming emotions may hinder your path to the life you desire. Yet, that life is closer than you think. My aim is to guide you in finding clarity, restoring hope, and cultivating the confidence to pursue your dreams. Together, we can initiate transformative change, addressing core issues, nurturing resilience, and fostering self-worth for a life of strength and optimism.
I specialize in various aspects of trauma; specifically complex trauma, sexual abuse, narcissistic abuse, and helping people thrive in addiction recovery.
As a trauma therapist, I understand your yearning for confidence, clarity, and purpose amid past trauma's shadows. The weight of defeat and overwhelming emotions may hinder your path to the life you desire. Yet, that life is closer than you think. My aim is to guide you in finding clarity, restoring hope, and cultivating the confidence to pursue your dreams. Together, we can initiate transformative change, addressing core issues, nurturing resilience, and fostering self-worth for a life of strength and optimism.
(818) 264-4029 View (818) 264-4029
Photo of Nicholas Warner, Pre-Licensed Professional in 91604, CA
Nicholas Warner
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
With over a decade of dedicated service in the fields of mental health and substance use disorder treatment, I am passionate about facilitating transformative journeys towards recovery and wellness.
My personal and professional experience has equipped me with a practical understanding of the nuanced challenges that individuals face on their path to wellness, enabling me to offer tailored, empathetic support. I am deeply dedicated to fostering resilience, empowerment, and holistic well-being in those I serve, and I look forward to partnering with you on your journey towards a brighter tomorrow. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations both local and abroad, honing my skills in mental health treatment, addiction recovery, and therapeutic interventions.
With over a decade of dedicated service in the fields of mental health and substance use disorder treatment, I am passionate about facilitating transformative journeys towards recovery and wellness.
My personal and professional experience has equipped me with a practical understanding of the nuanced challenges that individuals face on their path to wellness, enabling me to offer tailored, empathetic support. I am deeply dedicated to fostering resilience, empowerment, and holistic well-being in those I serve, and I look forward to partnering with you on your journey towards a brighter tomorrow. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations both local and abroad, honing my skills in mental health treatment, addiction recovery, and therapeutic interventions.
(323) 693-8625 View (323) 693-8625
Photo of Gabriel Cooper, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91604, CA
Gabriel Cooper
Marriage & Family Therapist, MPhil, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604
I provide depth therapy for adults navigating life challenges and relationships. I hold degrees from Northwestern and Cambridge and have clinical expertise in: ADHD, addiction, anxiety, chronic illness, depression, grief, marriage/dating, men's issues, self-esteem, and trauma. I have a special passion for working with LGBTQ folks and men. In our therapy, I stand right beside you exploring complex issues and growing your personal edges. You don't have to go it alone.
I provide depth therapy for adults navigating life challenges and relationships. I hold degrees from Northwestern and Cambridge and have clinical expertise in: ADHD, addiction, anxiety, chronic illness, depression, grief, marriage/dating, men's issues, self-esteem, and trauma. I have a special passion for working with LGBTQ folks and men. In our therapy, I stand right beside you exploring complex issues and growing your personal edges. You don't have to go it alone.
(818) 732-0777 View (818) 732-0777
Photo of Dan Drake, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91604, CA
Dan Drake
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, CSAT-S, CCPS-S
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604
I'm a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist Supervisor and a Certified Clinical Partner Specialist whose passion is helping clients recover physical, emotional, mental, relational, sexual, and spiritual wholeness.
Have your sexual behaviors led to destructive consequences for yourself or your loved ones? Or has a discovery of your partner's secret sexual behaviors left you confused and devastated? There IS a way out. We specialize in providing a safe, non-shaming space where we can work through issues related to sexual addiction / compulsivity and betrayal trauma. We're here to help.
I'm a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist Supervisor and a Certified Clinical Partner Specialist whose passion is helping clients recover physical, emotional, mental, relational, sexual, and spiritual wholeness.
Have your sexual behaviors led to destructive consequences for yourself or your loved ones? Or has a discovery of your partner's secret sexual behaviors left you confused and devastated? There IS a way out. We specialize in providing a safe, non-shaming space where we can work through issues related to sexual addiction / compulsivity and betrayal trauma. We're here to help.
(818) 721-9157 View (818) 721-9157
Addiction Therapists

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.