Photo of Janice R Wells, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94115, CA
Janice R Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include: substance use, chronic mental health challenges, medical & mental health intersections, oppression, cultural stress, cognitive dissonance, and therapy for people who try it only because someone else wanted them to.
Are you struggling? Feeling overwhelmed? Stuck? Have you noticed patterns in your life you want to change? Feeling defeated by obstacles to your goals? Are you worried about how you are feeling inside? Is something in your life affecting your ability to be happy or successful or in a relationship? Are you facing an issue you don't know how to resolve? Has someone you care about suggested you talk to a professional? You are not alone. Speaking to an experienced therapist can help you find the path from where you are to where you want to be.
My areas of expertise include: substance use, chronic mental health challenges, medical & mental health intersections, oppression, cultural stress, cognitive dissonance, and therapy for people who try it only because someone else wanted them to.
Are you struggling? Feeling overwhelmed? Stuck? Have you noticed patterns in your life you want to change? Feeling defeated by obstacles to your goals? Are you worried about how you are feeling inside? Is something in your life affecting your ability to be happy or successful or in a relationship? Are you facing an issue you don't know how to resolve? Has someone you care about suggested you talk to a professional? You are not alone. Speaking to an experienced therapist can help you find the path from where you are to where you want to be.
(415) 687-2681 View (415) 687-2681
Photo of Alexandra Haas, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Alexandra Haas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I specialize in attachment theory, addiction/addiction related issues, & becoming more aligned with your authentic self. I also enjoy working with couples wanting to strengthen communication skills or rebuild trust within their relationship. Caregivers were the first to teach us how to relate to others. Healthy relationships are often not modeled for us & we wonder why the same patterns repeat. I can help you gain insight into these patterns & we will work together to have healthier relationships. My goal is to get to know you, establish a strong connection, and provide a safe space to begin your healing journey together.
I specialize in attachment theory, addiction/addiction related issues, & becoming more aligned with your authentic self. I also enjoy working with couples wanting to strengthen communication skills or rebuild trust within their relationship. Caregivers were the first to teach us how to relate to others. Healthy relationships are often not modeled for us & we wonder why the same patterns repeat. I can help you gain insight into these patterns & we will work together to have healthier relationships. My goal is to get to know you, establish a strong connection, and provide a safe space to begin your healing journey together.
(415) 569-2869 View (415) 569-2869
Photo of Lindsay Olshan, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Lindsay Olshan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
My experience includes treating symptoms such as addiction, depression, anxiety, PTSD, self-esteem and self-image issues as well as relationship issues.
My goal is to help people regain balance in their lives, deepen their understanding of self and achieve a level of awareness that alleviates helplessness and creates choice and ultimate change.
My experience includes treating symptoms such as addiction, depression, anxiety, PTSD, self-esteem and self-image issues as well as relationship issues.
My goal is to help people regain balance in their lives, deepen their understanding of self and achieve a level of awareness that alleviates helplessness and creates choice and ultimate change.
(310) 341-7992 View (310) 341-7992
Photo of Leslie R Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94115, CA
Leslie R Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I help client's manage mental health challenges, including bipolar symptoms, anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction.
Perhaps you are seeking a path of self-exploration or struggling with anxiety, depression or low self-esteem. You may need some additional time to talk and make some sense out the barriers to your personal goals. Or you may desire to learn practical skills to cope with your pain. Every person is unique, which means that our time together would be tailored to your particular needs based on cultural background, family dynamics and personal values. Either way, I will be present with you and assist you as you journey toward a meaningful life.
I help client's manage mental health challenges, including bipolar symptoms, anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction.
Perhaps you are seeking a path of self-exploration or struggling with anxiety, depression or low self-esteem. You may need some additional time to talk and make some sense out the barriers to your personal goals. Or you may desire to learn practical skills to cope with your pain. Every person is unique, which means that our time together would be tailored to your particular needs based on cultural background, family dynamics and personal values. Either way, I will be present with you and assist you as you journey toward a meaningful life.
(415) 366-0587 View (415) 366-0587
Martha Lybarger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
Time to get your life back on track? Tired of the same old fights? Is your addiction hijacking your life? Wondering if you can continue to deal with the chaos around you? You can take your life back, find some peace and learn how to better communicate with your partner and yourself. We all have deep needs for tenderness, sharing and love.
Time to get your life back on track? Tired of the same old fights? Is your addiction hijacking your life? Wondering if you can continue to deal with the chaos around you? You can take your life back, find some peace and learn how to better communicate with your partner and yourself. We all have deep needs for tenderness, sharing and love.
(415) 969-7728 View (415) 969-7728
Photo of Amy Rice, Psychologist in 94115, CA
Amy Rice
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
In my San Francisco based private practice I focus on an array of issues including depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, parenting support, trauma, work stress, relationship issues, substance abuse, transgender and gender non-binary support, and counseling for issues related to fertility including IVF support. Too often I work with individuals who have waited until the point of crisis to reach out for help, and relief can start much earlier! With empathy, sensitivity, and humor, my goal is to create a space in which to build the therapeutic relationship while cultivating a happier and healthier sense of self and wellbeing.
In my San Francisco based private practice I focus on an array of issues including depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, parenting support, trauma, work stress, relationship issues, substance abuse, transgender and gender non-binary support, and counseling for issues related to fertility including IVF support. Too often I work with individuals who have waited until the point of crisis to reach out for help, and relief can start much earlier! With empathy, sensitivity, and humor, my goal is to create a space in which to build the therapeutic relationship while cultivating a happier and healthier sense of self and wellbeing.
(415) 801-3759 View (415) 801-3759
Photo of Tara Pratt, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Tara Pratt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
My clients are professional young adults wanting goal-oriented and/or long-term relational therapy that's both practical and warm. Through therapy they've experienced much success in the following areas: Relationship with self (identity/sexuality, confidence/self compassion, processing emotions), Interpersonal relationships (dating, boundaries, communication, navigating difficult people), Anxiety (understanding anxiety, coping, tools to manage), Career (work-life balance, navigating powerful positions, career change). I also have extensive experience working with teens and those struggling with substance misuse.
My clients are professional young adults wanting goal-oriented and/or long-term relational therapy that's both practical and warm. Through therapy they've experienced much success in the following areas: Relationship with self (identity/sexuality, confidence/self compassion, processing emotions), Interpersonal relationships (dating, boundaries, communication, navigating difficult people), Anxiety (understanding anxiety, coping, tools to manage), Career (work-life balance, navigating powerful positions, career change). I also have extensive experience working with teens and those struggling with substance misuse.
(415) 704-7263 View (415) 704-7263
Photo of Lee Rather, Psychologist in 94115, CA
Lee Rather
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
I am a Licensed Psychologist who works with adults in psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and couples therapy, Over the last 25 years, I have helped people with a wide range of problems including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, sexual concerns, interpersonal relationship issues, career obstacles, blocks in creativity, and the process of coming to terms with difficult and traumatic life situations. Usually my work extends further in helping people discover and develop a more lively and authentic sense of self, which in turn brings a sense of deeper meaningfulness and engagement in life.
I am a Licensed Psychologist who works with adults in psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and couples therapy, Over the last 25 years, I have helped people with a wide range of problems including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, sexual concerns, interpersonal relationship issues, career obstacles, blocks in creativity, and the process of coming to terms with difficult and traumatic life situations. Usually my work extends further in helping people discover and develop a more lively and authentic sense of self, which in turn brings a sense of deeper meaningfulness and engagement in life.
(415) 763-5972 View (415) 763-5972
Photo of Emily Ryan: Emdr And Trauma Intensives, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94115, CA
Emily Ryan: Emdr And Trauma Intensives
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
It is possible to heal rapidly and permanently from the impacts of trauma, substance use, and addiction/codependence.
I am committed to you and to transformation in your life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides specialized treatment in the areas of PTSD, anxiety, cancer care, depression and addiction. I have been providing therapy and counseling services to individuals, groups and families since 1999. Together we will focus on real solutions to problems and accessing your personal strengths. My background in mindfulness, IFS, EMDR and CBT based practices provides a framework for healing that is focused on both the internal strengths and resources of the individual, and the dynamic interplay between the person and their environment.
It is possible to heal rapidly and permanently from the impacts of trauma, substance use, and addiction/codependence.
I am committed to you and to transformation in your life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides specialized treatment in the areas of PTSD, anxiety, cancer care, depression and addiction. I have been providing therapy and counseling services to individuals, groups and families since 1999. Together we will focus on real solutions to problems and accessing your personal strengths. My background in mindfulness, IFS, EMDR and CBT based practices provides a framework for healing that is focused on both the internal strengths and resources of the individual, and the dynamic interplay between the person and their environment.
(415) 787-4246 View (415) 787-4246
Photo of Alecia Singer, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Alecia Singer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
Do you believe that happiness is not possible unless you obtain a certain body size, relationship or job and are on a constant quest for perfectionism? You may find yourself turning to addiction, chaotic relationships, disordered eating, your inner critic and negative body image to find relief from anxiety, stress or trauma. This is understandable, but there is another way... Imagine creating a compassionate relationship with yourself based on accepting your body as a source of wisdom, connecting you to your feelings, authenticity, creativity and life force.
Do you believe that happiness is not possible unless you obtain a certain body size, relationship or job and are on a constant quest for perfectionism? You may find yourself turning to addiction, chaotic relationships, disordered eating, your inner critic and negative body image to find relief from anxiety, stress or trauma. This is understandable, but there is another way... Imagine creating a compassionate relationship with yourself based on accepting your body as a source of wisdom, connecting you to your feelings, authenticity, creativity and life force.
(415) 660-9464 View (415) 660-9464
Photo of Derek Rubinstein, Psychologist in 94115, CA
Derek Rubinstein
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I also bring specialized training and experience in working with young professionals, men's issues, high functioning autism / Asperger's Syndrome, depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, substance abuse, relationship challenges, personal discovery, integration of spiritual/psychedelic experiences, and mindfulness meditation.
Like any new endeavor, beginning therapy can bring both anxiety and hope. Whether you're seeking therapy to address specific concerns or to engage in personal exploration, I bring many years of experience working with a broad range of issues and people. I see therapy as a unique opportunity to help my clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves, develop greater awareness and insight, and make meaningful changes that lead to greater fulfillment in their lives, relationships, and careers.
I also bring specialized training and experience in working with young professionals, men's issues, high functioning autism / Asperger's Syndrome, depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, substance abuse, relationship challenges, personal discovery, integration of spiritual/psychedelic experiences, and mindfulness meditation.
Like any new endeavor, beginning therapy can bring both anxiety and hope. Whether you're seeking therapy to address specific concerns or to engage in personal exploration, I bring many years of experience working with a broad range of issues and people. I see therapy as a unique opportunity to help my clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves, develop greater awareness and insight, and make meaningful changes that lead to greater fulfillment in their lives, relationships, and careers.
(415) 521-3766 View (415) 521-3766
Photo of Dawn Marie Campagnola, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Dawn Marie Campagnola
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MACP, CDWF, CYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I am committed to providing a safe and hope-filled space for my clients to explore their experiences and move towards healing and transformation. I provide compassionate care in a non-judgmental environment and consider myself open minded and informed. Being a yoga instructor, I bring a rich understanding of the body-mind-spirit connection to my practice. I have experience with individuals, families & couples facing a variety of issues. Issues include women's issues, struggles with self-esteem, confidence, empowerment, substance abuse, codependency, anxiety, stress, depression, grief & loss, sexual abuse, and sexual identity.
I am committed to providing a safe and hope-filled space for my clients to explore their experiences and move towards healing and transformation. I provide compassionate care in a non-judgmental environment and consider myself open minded and informed. Being a yoga instructor, I bring a rich understanding of the body-mind-spirit connection to my practice. I have experience with individuals, families & couples facing a variety of issues. Issues include women's issues, struggles with self-esteem, confidence, empowerment, substance abuse, codependency, anxiety, stress, depression, grief & loss, sexual abuse, and sexual identity.
(732) 743-7115 View (732) 743-7115
Photo of Lisa Bograd, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Lisa Bograd
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
If you are someone who is motivated to understand yourself on a deeper level and to challenge and change beliefs and behaviors that no longer serve you than I am the therapist for you. I work well with people who are struggling with addiction and relationship issues; people who keep repeating the same unfufilling patterns and want to change them, whether at work, with their partner or spouse, or with their children. Often these dynamics are reflective of deeper wounds, and need to be addressed so they can change and heal. I am deeply committed to helping my clients get unstuck, and this process takes some time, but is well worth it.
If you are someone who is motivated to understand yourself on a deeper level and to challenge and change beliefs and behaviors that no longer serve you than I am the therapist for you. I work well with people who are struggling with addiction and relationship issues; people who keep repeating the same unfufilling patterns and want to change them, whether at work, with their partner or spouse, or with their children. Often these dynamics are reflective of deeper wounds, and need to be addressed so they can change and heal. I am deeply committed to helping my clients get unstuck, and this process takes some time, but is well worth it.
(415) 935-1922 View (415) 935-1922
Photo of John Andonakakis, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
John Andonakakis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I have trained and worked in a broad array of environments, including community-based and private mental health clinics, substance abuse treatment centers for adolescents and adults, elementary schools, hospital psychiatric facilities, and residential facilities for homeless single adults.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience. I work with adults who are struggling with challenging life transitions, repercussions of traumatic experience, challenges with emotional regulation, relationships, and concerns related to psycho-spiritual development. I am proud to serve the LGBT and straight communities. I accept Tele-therapy referrals.
I have trained and worked in a broad array of environments, including community-based and private mental health clinics, substance abuse treatment centers for adolescents and adults, elementary schools, hospital psychiatric facilities, and residential facilities for homeless single adults.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience. I work with adults who are struggling with challenging life transitions, repercussions of traumatic experience, challenges with emotional regulation, relationships, and concerns related to psycho-spiritual development. I am proud to serve the LGBT and straight communities. I accept Tele-therapy referrals.
(415) 795-2912 View (415) 795-2912
Photo of Laura Domash, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94115, CA
Laura Domash
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise: substance abuse, addiction, trauma, self-esteem difficulties, and mood and anxiety disorders.
My work is ultimately about mindful, skillful, and balanced living. Life is short-- I want my clients to enjoy the process regardless of what life throws at them. I help people move beyond difficulties such as substance abuse/other compulsions, excessive self-criticism, symptoms of depression and anxiety, difficulties with relationships, trauma, and other human struggles. My approach is authentic and warm yet exceptionally direct. I'll help identify inadequate coping patterns so you can replace them with proven skills that lead to high quality living. The ultimate goal is radical self-love/acceptance.
My areas of expertise: substance abuse, addiction, trauma, self-esteem difficulties, and mood and anxiety disorders.
My work is ultimately about mindful, skillful, and balanced living. Life is short-- I want my clients to enjoy the process regardless of what life throws at them. I help people move beyond difficulties such as substance abuse/other compulsions, excessive self-criticism, symptoms of depression and anxiety, difficulties with relationships, trauma, and other human struggles. My approach is authentic and warm yet exceptionally direct. I'll help identify inadequate coping patterns so you can replace them with proven skills that lead to high quality living. The ultimate goal is radical self-love/acceptance.
(408) 837-0274 View (408) 837-0274
Photo of Thom Kessler, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Thom Kessler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Addiction Specialist.
Whether your decision to make changes involves freedom from painful limiting beliefs, release from repetitive relationship patterns, or transformation through sincere self-examination, I help people to fully realize the person they are destined to become. I work with adults, couples, teens, and families, helping them to successfully attain short-term goals and craft long-range solutions by utilizing a variety of approaches matched to their specific needs or expressed desires as they learn new ways to address life's challenges. As a level 3 Gottman couples therapist, I work with couples utilizing John Gottman's evidence-based theory.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Addiction Specialist.
Whether your decision to make changes involves freedom from painful limiting beliefs, release from repetitive relationship patterns, or transformation through sincere self-examination, I help people to fully realize the person they are destined to become. I work with adults, couples, teens, and families, helping them to successfully attain short-term goals and craft long-range solutions by utilizing a variety of approaches matched to their specific needs or expressed desires as they learn new ways to address life's challenges. As a level 3 Gottman couples therapist, I work with couples utilizing John Gottman's evidence-based theory.
(415) 454-8931 View (415) 454-8931
Photo of Christine Woods, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94115, CA
Christine Woods
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
Waitlist for new clients
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and I specialize in working with individuals/couples in recovery from sex addiction, pornography addiction, and/or love addiction. I have experience supporting betrayed partners who are struggling to make sense of how best to move forward in the wake of traumatic discovery. In my work with couples affected by sexual addiction/betrayal/infidelity, I focus on the relationship repair process. Couples therapy sessions are focused on providing immediate structure and tools to facilitate authentic communication skills and rebuild trust and connection. I am an Ally of the LGBTQ+ community.
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and I specialize in working with individuals/couples in recovery from sex addiction, pornography addiction, and/or love addiction. I have experience supporting betrayed partners who are struggling to make sense of how best to move forward in the wake of traumatic discovery. In my work with couples affected by sexual addiction/betrayal/infidelity, I focus on the relationship repair process. Couples therapy sessions are focused on providing immediate structure and tools to facilitate authentic communication skills and rebuild trust and connection. I am an Ally of the LGBTQ+ community.
(510) 892-5137 View (510) 892-5137
Photo of Susan Hamlin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94115, CA
Susan Hamlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
A seasoned psychotherapist with tremendous respect for the complicated difficulty people face when deciding to contact a psychotherapist. Coming to the point of seeking help, is a critical moment that has often been building for a over period and the person making the phone call has already tried in many ways to solve a problem that has become overwhelming. My approach in treatment is accessible, direct and thoughtful. Trained as a psychoanalyst and an addictions specialist, I treat individuals, couples. Areas of particular interest and expertise are issues are issues related to addiction and adult transitions.
A seasoned psychotherapist with tremendous respect for the complicated difficulty people face when deciding to contact a psychotherapist. Coming to the point of seeking help, is a critical moment that has often been building for a over period and the person making the phone call has already tried in many ways to solve a problem that has become overwhelming. My approach in treatment is accessible, direct and thoughtful. Trained as a psychoanalyst and an addictions specialist, I treat individuals, couples. Areas of particular interest and expertise are issues are issues related to addiction and adult transitions.
(408) 759-5423 View (408) 759-5423
Photo of James Baron, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
James Baron
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
Hi, my name is Mike Baron. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach to therapy is very client-focused. After all, you are the expert when it comes to you. Most of my career has been focused on active-duty military and Veterans. As a result, I have an extensive background in combat trauma and substance abuse. I have a long history of working with both Veterans and active-duty military members. I work with individuals and couples dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, combat trauma, and substance abuse.
Hi, my name is Mike Baron. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach to therapy is very client-focused. After all, you are the expert when it comes to you. Most of my career has been focused on active-duty military and Veterans. As a result, I have an extensive background in combat trauma and substance abuse. I have a long history of working with both Veterans and active-duty military members. I work with individuals and couples dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, combat trauma, and substance abuse.
(619) 815-5114 View (619) 815-5114
Photo of Nate Hinerman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94115, CA
Nate Hinerman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
I routinely treat depression and anxiety, addiction, trauma, PTSD, and a variety of personality disorders, in addition to grief and loss.
Nate Hinerman, PhD, LMFT, is Dean of Undergraduate Programs at Golden Gate University, San Francisco, where he is also a tenured Professor of Psychology, as well as the Chair of the Psychology Department. He is also on the faculty at the University of San Francisco, teaching in the Nursing School, and in the Religious Studies Department. He serves as Chair of the San Francisco End of Life Network, a community-based support and education group for hospice and palliative care professionals and patients, now in its 23rd year (www.sfeol.org).
I routinely treat depression and anxiety, addiction, trauma, PTSD, and a variety of personality disorders, in addition to grief and loss.
Nate Hinerman, PhD, LMFT, is Dean of Undergraduate Programs at Golden Gate University, San Francisco, where he is also a tenured Professor of Psychology, as well as the Chair of the Psychology Department. He is also on the faculty at the University of San Francisco, teaching in the Nursing School, and in the Religious Studies Department. He serves as Chair of the San Francisco End of Life Network, a community-based support and education group for hospice and palliative care professionals and patients, now in its 23rd year (www.sfeol.org).
(628) 215-8084 View (628) 215-8084
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.