Addiction Therapists in 94115
Firebird Healing
PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
At Firebird Healing we specialize in treating trauma. We know that experiencing trauma can impact every aspect of your life. Unresolved and unhealed trauma can profoundly impact your mental and emotional well-being, body, work, relationships, creativity, and success. Experiences of trauma profoundly shape how you see yourself and the world, and are often at the root of life struggles and difficulties. Trauma is often what underlies conditions such as depression, anxiety, addiction, conflicts, difficulties, or a lack of joy and satisfaction with living. The experts at Firebird Healing have found that addressing trauma and engaging the support, healing, and tools to triumph over trauma is one of the most profound, expansive, and life-altering choices you can make.
At Firebird Healing we specialize in treating trauma. We know that experiencing trauma can impact every aspect of your life. Unresolved and unhealed trauma can profoundly impact your mental and emotional well-being, body, work, relationships, creativity, and success. Experiences of trauma profoundly shape how you see yourself and the world, and are often at the root of life struggles and difficulties. Trauma is often what underlies conditions such as depression, anxiety, addiction, conflicts, difficulties, or a lack of joy and satisfaction with living. The experts at Firebird Healing have found that addressing trauma and engaging the support, healing, and tools to triumph over trauma is one of the most profound, expansive, and life-altering choices you can make.
Jessica Claire Lief
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
My name is Jessica Lief. I have been practicing social work and working as a psychotherapist since 2014. I support individuals who are recovering from eating disorders, body image issues, substance use issues, trauma, self harm, prenatal and postpartum issues, miscarriage and fertility issues. I work with adults of all ages. My style has been described as nurturing, empathic, and empowering. I am direct and authentic; I will never blame you for your suffering. My approach is primarily psychodynamic but combines aspects of self-psychology, mindful self-compassion, dialectical behavior therapy, Seeking Safety, and mindfulness.
My name is Jessica Lief. I have been practicing social work and working as a psychotherapist since 2014. I support individuals who are recovering from eating disorders, body image issues, substance use issues, trauma, self harm, prenatal and postpartum issues, miscarriage and fertility issues. I work with adults of all ages. My style has been described as nurturing, empathic, and empowering. I am direct and authentic; I will never blame you for your suffering. My approach is primarily psychodynamic but combines aspects of self-psychology, mindful self-compassion, dialectical behavior therapy, Seeking Safety, and mindfulness.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Benjamin Russack
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
In the short term, I am directive and structured, and will work with you, your spouse or your child to put out any "fires" --acute stressors such as job loss, divorce, heartbreak or addiction issues need to be resolved before the deeper work of therapy can begin.
I tend to be quite direct in my approach and begin therapy with a combination of focused goal and solution oriented work. As the therapy proceeds, I then branch out into deeper issues concerning the unconscious, dream work, unresolved trauma and more. Additionally, I specialize and am not limited to, treating depression, anxiety and chemical dependency. Lastly, I also enjoy working with adolescents, couples and families. ** I host a podcast called "Look, Just Tell Me What To Do" which addresses issues related to mental health which is available here https://lookjusttellmewhattodo.podbean.com/ or on most podcast platforms.
In the short term, I am directive and structured, and will work with you, your spouse or your child to put out any "fires" --acute stressors such as job loss, divorce, heartbreak or addiction issues need to be resolved before the deeper work of therapy can begin.
I tend to be quite direct in my approach and begin therapy with a combination of focused goal and solution oriented work. As the therapy proceeds, I then branch out into deeper issues concerning the unconscious, dream work, unresolved trauma and more. Additionally, I specialize and am not limited to, treating depression, anxiety and chemical dependency. Lastly, I also enjoy working with adolescents, couples and families. ** I host a podcast called "Look, Just Tell Me What To Do" which addresses issues related to mental health which is available here https://lookjusttellmewhattodo.podbean.com/ or on most podcast platforms.
Dr. Sasha Avanesov
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I have over 16 years of expertise in residential and outpatient settings at one of the foremost South Bay addiction treatment centers.
Whether you are experiencing anxiety, stress, relationship issues, coping with trauma, screaming at the world gone mad, seeking answers to spiritual or existential questions, or pursuing personal growth, I will work hard to empower you. Together, we will explore, clarify, and address issues at the root of your concerns, clearing a path towards inner peace.
I have over 16 years of expertise in residential and outpatient settings at one of the foremost South Bay addiction treatment centers.
Whether you are experiencing anxiety, stress, relationship issues, coping with trauma, screaming at the world gone mad, seeking answers to spiritual or existential questions, or pursuing personal growth, I will work hard to empower you. Together, we will explore, clarify, and address issues at the root of your concerns, clearing a path towards inner peace.
Leslie Yan Meier
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I specialize in three areas: substance abuse/addictions treatment, including both harm reduction and abstinence-focused treatments; mood disorders treatment, with an emphasis on bipolar disorder; and evidence based therapies, including CBT, DBT, CPT, and ACT for a variety of issues, including mood and anxiety disorders, PTSD, and relationship issues.
My approach to psychotherapy is a collaborative and flexible partnership with each client. I believe that trust, respect, non-judgment, genuineness, and compassion form the foundation of a therapeutic relationship. Through the process of psychotherapy, I endeavor to help clients gain insight and perspective into their relationships and behaviors with the intention of achieving positive change. We will work in tandem to identify treatment goals and expectations at the outset of treatment, and will ensure that the focus of therapy is on the most salient issues.
I specialize in three areas: substance abuse/addictions treatment, including both harm reduction and abstinence-focused treatments; mood disorders treatment, with an emphasis on bipolar disorder; and evidence based therapies, including CBT, DBT, CPT, and ACT for a variety of issues, including mood and anxiety disorders, PTSD, and relationship issues.
My approach to psychotherapy is a collaborative and flexible partnership with each client. I believe that trust, respect, non-judgment, genuineness, and compassion form the foundation of a therapeutic relationship. Through the process of psychotherapy, I endeavor to help clients gain insight and perspective into their relationships and behaviors with the intention of achieving positive change. We will work in tandem to identify treatment goals and expectations at the outset of treatment, and will ensure that the focus of therapy is on the most salient issues.
Nina F Raff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115 (Online Only)
Addiction causes everyone to swirl around it, like circling a drain. How would you like to keep loving your partner or family member, but not be sucked into shaping your life around them? If you are the person with addiction, how would you like to feel free? I can help you learn to float and not be dragged down. Breathe fresh air. Become a master swimmer. I understand that suffocating feeling, and work with you to help you find yourself again, whether you are the family member or the person with addiction.
Addiction causes everyone to swirl around it, like circling a drain. How would you like to keep loving your partner or family member, but not be sucked into shaping your life around them? If you are the person with addiction, how would you like to feel free? I can help you learn to float and not be dragged down. Breathe fresh air. Become a master swimmer. I understand that suffocating feeling, and work with you to help you find yourself again, whether you are the family member or the person with addiction.
Samantha Hertz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BFA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115 (Online Only)
My work with creative people informs my therapeutic process when working with teens and young adults, addiction and recovery, life transitions, family systems, women's issues, and the challenges we all face as human beings.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! Do you feel STUCK, OVERWHELMED, or that you are NOT LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE? Do you say to yourself “IF ONLY I COULD...” (fill in the blank: make more money, lose 10 pounds, get that promotion, etc.), then I would be able to live the life I’ve always imagined? Are you struggling in your relationships? Maybe you're looking for someone to talk to about your job, relationships, life goals, or negative thinking patterns. Therapy is not a "one size fits all" process, and I work with my clients to help them navigate life’s challenges. I applaud you for taking the first step and exploring therapy!
My work with creative people informs my therapeutic process when working with teens and young adults, addiction and recovery, life transitions, family systems, women's issues, and the challenges we all face as human beings.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! Do you feel STUCK, OVERWHELMED, or that you are NOT LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE? Do you say to yourself “IF ONLY I COULD...” (fill in the blank: make more money, lose 10 pounds, get that promotion, etc.), then I would be able to live the life I’ve always imagined? Are you struggling in your relationships? Maybe you're looking for someone to talk to about your job, relationships, life goals, or negative thinking patterns. Therapy is not a "one size fits all" process, and I work with my clients to help them navigate life’s challenges. I applaud you for taking the first step and exploring therapy!
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Arthur Brendze
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115 (Online Only)
I am happy to share my unusually broad and varied experience with you: Isolation, Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Addiction/ Recovery/Codependency, Self-Esteem, Relationships/Marriage, Personality Disorders, Retirement/Aging/Saging, Loss/Grief, Religion/Spirituality, Diversity/Cross-Cultural, Same Sex Issues, Childhood/Parenting, Weight/Body-Image and more.
I am a licensed psychotherapist with over 30 years of experience in Psychotherapy, Relationship/Marriage Counseling and Organizational Development and Transformation. Before becoming a licensed psychotherapist, I was a wooden boatbuilder, USCG Licensed Captain, businessman and educator. I still am. Over the years, a diverse spectrum of individuals, couples and groups have arrived in my practice with an equally diverse spectrum of challenges …some common …some not so common. We have worked on them together, usually with satisfying success for all concerned.
I am happy to share my unusually broad and varied experience with you: Isolation, Depression, Anxiety, Anger, Addiction/ Recovery/Codependency, Self-Esteem, Relationships/Marriage, Personality Disorders, Retirement/Aging/Saging, Loss/Grief, Religion/Spirituality, Diversity/Cross-Cultural, Same Sex Issues, Childhood/Parenting, Weight/Body-Image and more.
I am a licensed psychotherapist with over 30 years of experience in Psychotherapy, Relationship/Marriage Counseling and Organizational Development and Transformation. Before becoming a licensed psychotherapist, I was a wooden boatbuilder, USCG Licensed Captain, businessman and educator. I still am. Over the years, a diverse spectrum of individuals, couples and groups have arrived in my practice with an equally diverse spectrum of challenges …some common …some not so common. We have worked on them together, usually with satisfying success for all concerned.
Trevor M Ahrendt
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I help people lead an examined life, especially when they're making transformative, profound shifts. I love to meet people when they're trying to make big changes relationships, careers, or rebooting their life out of addiction, depression, or bad marriahes. I offer both practical, tactical solutions and exploration of deeper, unconscious currents. I have a particular interest in people looking to develop or integrate a sense of spirituality. I work with people in tech, leaders, artists and seekers who are looking to lead a vital and integrated life.
I help people lead an examined life, especially when they're making transformative, profound shifts. I love to meet people when they're trying to make big changes relationships, careers, or rebooting their life out of addiction, depression, or bad marriahes. I offer both practical, tactical solutions and exploration of deeper, unconscious currents. I have a particular interest in people looking to develop or integrate a sense of spirituality. I work with people in tech, leaders, artists and seekers who are looking to lead a vital and integrated life.
David Ralph Beuerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
My current position of Clinical Supervisor at UCSF in the Department of Psychiatry working in addiction medicine has provided a solid foundation supporting individuals struggling with addiction using my expertise in Motivational Interviewing .
Are you looking to make a change in your life? Maybe there is a significant relationship that is not what you wish it was. Maybe you are struggling to make a career change or a big decision at work. Perhaps you are considering relocating to another area. Are you trying to quit smoking, grappling with weight loss, wanting to start an exercise or meditation routine? Or maybe you want to adjust how you react to certain stressors or situations that inevitably crop up in life. My practice “Time for Change” is here for you.
My current position of Clinical Supervisor at UCSF in the Department of Psychiatry working in addiction medicine has provided a solid foundation supporting individuals struggling with addiction using my expertise in Motivational Interviewing .
Are you looking to make a change in your life? Maybe there is a significant relationship that is not what you wish it was. Maybe you are struggling to make a career change or a big decision at work. Perhaps you are considering relocating to another area. Are you trying to quit smoking, grappling with weight loss, wanting to start an exercise or meditation routine? Or maybe you want to adjust how you react to certain stressors or situations that inevitably crop up in life. My practice “Time for Change” is here for you.
Alexandria 'allie' Fernandez
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115 (Online Only)
Where addressing ADHD-related challenges, substance abuse issues, life transitions, relationship concerns, or self-esteem struggles, my goal is to collaboratively work with you to enhance your overall mental health and cultivate a more fulfilling life.
Are you ready to embark on a transformative path forwards a healthier and more fulfilling life? With a deep understanding of the intricacies of the human mind, I employ a client-centered approach that fosters a safe and non-judgmental space for exploration and healing. Specializing in areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and substance abuse, my warm and empathetic demeanor creates an atmosphere where you will feel empowered to navigate challenges, develop coping strategies, and build resilience.
Where addressing ADHD-related challenges, substance abuse issues, life transitions, relationship concerns, or self-esteem struggles, my goal is to collaboratively work with you to enhance your overall mental health and cultivate a more fulfilling life.
Are you ready to embark on a transformative path forwards a healthier and more fulfilling life? With a deep understanding of the intricacies of the human mind, I employ a client-centered approach that fosters a safe and non-judgmental space for exploration and healing. Specializing in areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and substance abuse, my warm and empathetic demeanor creates an atmosphere where you will feel empowered to navigate challenges, develop coping strategies, and build resilience.
Leah Heyman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
Tired of feeling exhausted all the time? Are you moving through life but not fully living it? You're not alone, and it doesn't have to be this way. My aim is to help you cultivate resilience, reconcile past pains, and forge a path toward greater well-being. I specialize in working with teens and adults navigating the complexities of trauma, focusing on dissociation, substance use/addiction, chronic illness, and disordered eating. My approach emphasizes fostering positive self-esteem, setting personal boundaries, exploring intersectional identities, practicing non-violent communication, and enhancing the mind-body connection.
Tired of feeling exhausted all the time? Are you moving through life but not fully living it? You're not alone, and it doesn't have to be this way. My aim is to help you cultivate resilience, reconcile past pains, and forge a path toward greater well-being. I specialize in working with teens and adults navigating the complexities of trauma, focusing on dissociation, substance use/addiction, chronic illness, and disordered eating. My approach emphasizes fostering positive self-esteem, setting personal boundaries, exploring intersectional identities, practicing non-violent communication, and enhancing the mind-body connection.
Nicole Collins
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
Specializing in trauma and addiction. I believe that addiction, alcoholism, depression, the things that push against your joy, calm, serenity, and sense of security, are powerful and baffling. Still, something unique inside of you is ready to push back against it all. The fear, anxiety, depression, and trauma that press against your head and chest are real, but they should not define you. I feel my role is to help you find the resources within to overcome the challenges and suffering that life may bring.
Specializing in trauma and addiction. I believe that addiction, alcoholism, depression, the things that push against your joy, calm, serenity, and sense of security, are powerful and baffling. Still, something unique inside of you is ready to push back against it all. The fear, anxiety, depression, and trauma that press against your head and chest are real, but they should not define you. I feel my role is to help you find the resources within to overcome the challenges and suffering that life may bring.
Helen Chuong Brody
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
My specialties include couples therapy, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, self esteem, parenting, addiction, pregnancy, postpartum, grief, infidelity, anger, relationships.
I bring compassion, curiosity and extensive experience to help clients who may be stuck in repetitive patterns or struggles, or facing unexpected challenges. If you are at a loss for what to do or how to feel better, we can work together to understand what brings you to therapy, relieve distress and develop resilience to help you move forward. My style is warm, collaborative, and grounded in effective practices that calm anxiety, strengthen relationships and foster communication, connection and empathy. I create a safe and nonjudgmental space to attune and meet clients where they are every step of the way.
My specialties include couples therapy, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, self esteem, parenting, addiction, pregnancy, postpartum, grief, infidelity, anger, relationships.
I bring compassion, curiosity and extensive experience to help clients who may be stuck in repetitive patterns or struggles, or facing unexpected challenges. If you are at a loss for what to do or how to feel better, we can work together to understand what brings you to therapy, relieve distress and develop resilience to help you move forward. My style is warm, collaborative, and grounded in effective practices that calm anxiety, strengthen relationships and foster communication, connection and empathy. I create a safe and nonjudgmental space to attune and meet clients where they are every step of the way.
Dr. Sean Robertson
MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115 (Online Only)
In addition to couples counseling, I also offer couples intimacy coaching for performance anxiety, sex addiction, sexuality, and open relationships.
Start seeing challenges as opportunities to get your needs met and improve your relationship! I’m Dr. Sean Robertson, creator of RDP. I work as an online Couples Counselor and Intimacy Coach. I know relationships can be hard, even though they’re also one of the most fulfilling parts of our life. In my couples counseling I create an empathic space for learning and deep connection, while also being diligent about ensuring that clients implement the tools I teach. My methods are based in behavioral psychology, Gottman Method, and attachment psychology.
In addition to couples counseling, I also offer couples intimacy coaching for performance anxiety, sex addiction, sexuality, and open relationships.
Start seeing challenges as opportunities to get your needs met and improve your relationship! I’m Dr. Sean Robertson, creator of RDP. I work as an online Couples Counselor and Intimacy Coach. I know relationships can be hard, even though they’re also one of the most fulfilling parts of our life. In my couples counseling I create an empathic space for learning and deep connection, while also being diligent about ensuring that clients implement the tools I teach. My methods are based in behavioral psychology, Gottman Method, and attachment psychology.
Cheryl Clementson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
You're looking for better coping skills and fulfillment in your life. You want less anxiety and more balance. You want to find peace with yourself. You're trying to decide whether to stay in the relationship or not. You're questioning your life choices. I get it! I've been there! I help people work through life's transitions. Learn how to cope with feeling overwhelmed and lost. Learn to trust yourself and love yourself more. Increase self-esteem. Release shame. Set boundaries. Build true self-care. I also specialize in substance abuse and addiction, whether you are sober-curious, brand new to sobriety, or in long-term recovery.
You're looking for better coping skills and fulfillment in your life. You want less anxiety and more balance. You want to find peace with yourself. You're trying to decide whether to stay in the relationship or not. You're questioning your life choices. I get it! I've been there! I help people work through life's transitions. Learn how to cope with feeling overwhelmed and lost. Learn to trust yourself and love yourself more. Increase self-esteem. Release shame. Set boundaries. Build true self-care. I also specialize in substance abuse and addiction, whether you are sober-curious, brand new to sobriety, or in long-term recovery.
See more therapy options for 94115
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.