Photo of Anahita Kia, Marriage & Family Therapist in Calabasas, CA
Anahita Kia
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302
Have you been feeling heightened levels of stress, sadness, or general dissatisfaction with your life? Are you engaging in unhealthy patterns of behavior, abusing substances, or staying in unhappy relationships out of complacency or fear? I work with individuals, couples, and families experiencing emotional and relational issues, including separation and divorce, codependency, addiction, panic, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief & loss, and women's health issues. Together, we will work to identify and understand the issues at hand, reduce your distress, and help you live a life that feels more productive and fulfilling.
Have you been feeling heightened levels of stress, sadness, or general dissatisfaction with your life? Are you engaging in unhealthy patterns of behavior, abusing substances, or staying in unhappy relationships out of complacency or fear? I work with individuals, couples, and families experiencing emotional and relational issues, including separation and divorce, codependency, addiction, panic, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief & loss, and women's health issues. Together, we will work to identify and understand the issues at hand, reduce your distress, and help you live a life that feels more productive and fulfilling.
(747) 318-5635 View (747) 318-5635
Photo of Maryam Khodaeikalaki, Counselor in Calabasas, CA
Maryam Khodaeikalaki
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302  (Online Only)
I believe therapy is about change. My mission as a therapist is to help my clients find their way to creating balance and joy in their daily life. I believe all people have the ability to build a strong, healthy, and peaceful self. I specialize in treating such issues, among others, as anxiety, depression, trauma, anger management, relationship issues, parenting, marriage counseling, pre-marriage counseling, and divorce. In addition, I have substantial experience in substance abuse treatment.
I believe therapy is about change. My mission as a therapist is to help my clients find their way to creating balance and joy in their daily life. I believe all people have the ability to build a strong, healthy, and peaceful self. I specialize in treating such issues, among others, as anxiety, depression, trauma, anger management, relationship issues, parenting, marriage counseling, pre-marriage counseling, and divorce. In addition, I have substantial experience in substance abuse treatment.
(310) 697-8124 View (310) 697-8124
Photo of Mindfulpath, Inc.- Erica Ives, MFT, CEDS, Marriage & Family Therapist in Calabasas, CA
Mindfulpath, Inc.- Erica Ives, MFT, CEDS
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302
My work as a therapist began with the treatment of adolescents who suffered from trauma, substance abuse, eating disorders.
As a therapist, I demonstrate a passionate devotion to fostering growth in a safe, nurturing environment. My treatment approach is tailored to your strengths and uniqueness. I teach and guide you how to actively pay attention to the messages of your body, thoughts, feelings, and your actions. Learn new coping skills that compliment your uniqueness. Visit my websites at www.mindfulpath.com and www.ericaives.com I believe recovery is much more than eliminating self-destructive behaviors; it's about cultivating and living life everyday on a mindful path filled with self-awareness, fulfilling relationships, meaning, and vitality.
My work as a therapist began with the treatment of adolescents who suffered from trauma, substance abuse, eating disorders.
As a therapist, I demonstrate a passionate devotion to fostering growth in a safe, nurturing environment. My treatment approach is tailored to your strengths and uniqueness. I teach and guide you how to actively pay attention to the messages of your body, thoughts, feelings, and your actions. Learn new coping skills that compliment your uniqueness. Visit my websites at www.mindfulpath.com and www.ericaives.com I believe recovery is much more than eliminating self-destructive behaviors; it's about cultivating and living life everyday on a mindful path filled with self-awareness, fulfilling relationships, meaning, and vitality.
(818) 639-4273 View (818) 639-4273
Photo of Michele Ryan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Calabasas, CA
Michele Ryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302  (Online Only)
I have experience working in treatment facilities specializing in addiction & co-occurring disorders.
Hello, my name is Michele Ryan. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who loves working with individuals, families and couples who have been affected by mental illness or just the everyday stressors and strains of life. Sometimes it can be very difficult to get relief from emotional problems on our own. Too often, when we feel discouraged, angry, stressed out and overwhelmed and we can turn to unhealthy coping skills. I have worked with clients struggling with chemical and behavioral addictions, depression, multiple anxiety disorders, PTSD and ongoing difficulties due to past traumatic experiences and life stressors.
I have experience working in treatment facilities specializing in addiction & co-occurring disorders.
Hello, my name is Michele Ryan. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who loves working with individuals, families and couples who have been affected by mental illness or just the everyday stressors and strains of life. Sometimes it can be very difficult to get relief from emotional problems on our own. Too often, when we feel discouraged, angry, stressed out and overwhelmed and we can turn to unhealthy coping skills. I have worked with clients struggling with chemical and behavioral addictions, depression, multiple anxiety disorders, PTSD and ongoing difficulties due to past traumatic experiences and life stressors.
(747) 294-3646 View (747) 294-3646
Photo of Jo Fletcher, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Calabasas, CA
Jo Fletcher, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302  (Online Only)
My first specialty work began in addiction and trauma.
The goal to good therapy work is in creating a safe therapeutic relationship of deep listening and empathy. Empathy is a strange and powerful thing. There is no script. There is no right way or wrong way to do it. It's simply deep listening, holding space, withholding judgement, emotionally connecting, and communicating that incredibly healing message of, "You are not not alone." Take some time to heal. Give me a call and let's begin to re-write your story.
My first specialty work began in addiction and trauma.
The goal to good therapy work is in creating a safe therapeutic relationship of deep listening and empathy. Empathy is a strange and powerful thing. There is no script. There is no right way or wrong way to do it. It's simply deep listening, holding space, withholding judgement, emotionally connecting, and communicating that incredibly healing message of, "You are not not alone." Take some time to heal. Give me a call and let's begin to re-write your story.
(805) 357-9823 View (805) 357-9823
Photo of Launch to Wellness, Marriage & Family Therapist in Calabasas, CA
Launch to Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91301
Welcome to Launch to Wellness, Intensive Outpatient Program services in Woodland Hills, Ca. Facing challenges with addiction or mental health can be tough, but remember, you're not alone. Our dedicated team goes beyond the surface to uncover the root causes, understanding substances as indicators of deeper underlying issues. In a safe and confidential space, we assist you in breaking free from the cycle of addiction, leading you toward a life filled with joy and freedom. Our licensed professionals, who have personal understanding, offer clinical expertise to guide you through a transformative journey of healing and empowerment.
Welcome to Launch to Wellness, Intensive Outpatient Program services in Woodland Hills, Ca. Facing challenges with addiction or mental health can be tough, but remember, you're not alone. Our dedicated team goes beyond the surface to uncover the root causes, understanding substances as indicators of deeper underlying issues. In a safe and confidential space, we assist you in breaking free from the cycle of addiction, leading you toward a life filled with joy and freedom. Our licensed professionals, who have personal understanding, offer clinical expertise to guide you through a transformative journey of healing and empowerment.
(818) 975-2660 View (818) 975-2660
Photo of Peter C Meisner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Calabasas, CA
Peter C Meisner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who works predominantly with adults and couples struggling in various life issues. I work with relationship issues, loss, grief, addiction, trauma and emotional pain. I help by using a collaborative approach between the client and therapist: working to develop the skills needed to manage and reduce symptoms, developing insight about the manifestation of symptoms and to help you get control over your life again.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who works predominantly with adults and couples struggling in various life issues. I work with relationship issues, loss, grief, addiction, trauma and emotional pain. I help by using a collaborative approach between the client and therapist: working to develop the skills needed to manage and reduce symptoms, developing insight about the manifestation of symptoms and to help you get control over your life again.
(747) 227-7380 View (747) 227-7380
Photo of Samantha Molinar, Marriage & Family Therapist in Calabasas, CA
Samantha Molinar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302
I have extensive knowledge and training in working with children, adolescents, and young adults who suffer with addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
Hi! I want to first acknowledge that you have made the effort to seek out help by coming to this website, which means you already have awareness and acceptance that you may need additional support in your life right now. I commend you for taking that first step, it takes enormous strength. If you are someone who is finding your self stuck in unhealthy and maladaptive cycles, leading to strained or unhealthy relationships, unmet goals, lack of fulfillment, poor self esteem, or unhealthy behaviors, I am confident that I can help support you to overcome those barriers and help guide you towards achieving your goals.
I have extensive knowledge and training in working with children, adolescents, and young adults who suffer with addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
Hi! I want to first acknowledge that you have made the effort to seek out help by coming to this website, which means you already have awareness and acceptance that you may need additional support in your life right now. I commend you for taking that first step, it takes enormous strength. If you are someone who is finding your self stuck in unhealthy and maladaptive cycles, leading to strained or unhealthy relationships, unmet goals, lack of fulfillment, poor self esteem, or unhealthy behaviors, I am confident that I can help support you to overcome those barriers and help guide you towards achieving your goals.
(747) 271-5714 View (747) 271-5714
Photo of Lissa Khema Merkel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calabasas, CA
Lissa Khema Merkel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LAADC
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302
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 Natalie Martin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Calabasas, CA
Natalie Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CATCIII
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91301
My ideal client is you. My goal of therapy is to meet the client exactly where they are at and collaborate on the clients’ needs and goals. I work with clients to look at their patterns and behaviors by making the unconscious conscious. So much of what a person is struggling with has to do with blind spots and unconsciously learning to live out of habitual maladaptive patterns. Addiction has been a huge part of my career in the addiction field. I look at addiction as an unhealthy and a lot of time detrimental coping mechanisms. I work with clients, no matter what their addiction or lack of addiction, to live a full and happy life.
My ideal client is you. My goal of therapy is to meet the client exactly where they are at and collaborate on the clients’ needs and goals. I work with clients to look at their patterns and behaviors by making the unconscious conscious. So much of what a person is struggling with has to do with blind spots and unconsciously learning to live out of habitual maladaptive patterns. Addiction has been a huge part of my career in the addiction field. I look at addiction as an unhealthy and a lot of time detrimental coping mechanisms. I work with clients, no matter what their addiction or lack of addiction, to live a full and happy life.
(805) 706-8135 View (805) 706-8135
Photo of Todd L Perlmutter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calabasas, CA
Todd L Perlmutter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91301  (Online Only)
My professional and personal experience uniquely qualifies me to produce positive results in Individual, Family, Couples, Adolescent, and Drug/Alcohol addiction therapies. I have been providing private psychotherapy for over 25 years in the Conejo Valley and surrounding areas. In addition, I have retired with over two decades of employment working in law enforcement as a Manager in California’s Department of Corrections & Rehabilitation.
My professional and personal experience uniquely qualifies me to produce positive results in Individual, Family, Couples, Adolescent, and Drug/Alcohol addiction therapies. I have been providing private psychotherapy for over 25 years in the Conejo Valley and surrounding areas. In addition, I have retired with over two decades of employment working in law enforcement as a Manager in California’s Department of Corrections & Rehabilitation.
(818) 597-0115 View (818) 597-0115
Photo of Debbie Cohen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Calabasas, CA
Debbie Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302
Life has sure been tough the past few years. Are you working through a past or current trauma? How are you managing your stress? Sadness? Grief? Anxiety? Depression? DO you or a family member suffer from addiction? Perhaps you just need a jump start to get yourself moving again? You have already made the first step finding me right here on this site. Take the next brave one and reach out to me. Let’s have a conversation and discover ways that together we can create a happier and more joyful life for you.
Life has sure been tough the past few years. Are you working through a past or current trauma? How are you managing your stress? Sadness? Grief? Anxiety? Depression? DO you or a family member suffer from addiction? Perhaps you just need a jump start to get yourself moving again? You have already made the first step finding me right here on this site. Take the next brave one and reach out to me. Let’s have a conversation and discover ways that together we can create a happier and more joyful life for you.
(323) 900-0757 View (323) 900-0757
Photo of Robyn Blythe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calabasas, CA
Robyn Blythe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302
My specialized approach allows for an extraordinary connection to you that supports a focus on insight and change, helping you to discover and challenge your thoughts and beliefs that might get in your way, while I help you overcome ptsd, fears, worry, anxiety, depression, addiction, and to manage anger and stress.
As a therapist, I value and create a safe, nurturing, and empathic environment for individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues to relationship problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and addictions. I am trained & certified in EMDR, which helps a person to quickly move through recent and past trauma and successfully overcome symptoms related to PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder). We'll work together to help you find a healthy balance between body, mind, and emotions that allow for success in relationships and work, self-empowerment, and to live a life full of hope, meaning, and purpose.
My specialized approach allows for an extraordinary connection to you that supports a focus on insight and change, helping you to discover and challenge your thoughts and beliefs that might get in your way, while I help you overcome ptsd, fears, worry, anxiety, depression, addiction, and to manage anger and stress.
As a therapist, I value and create a safe, nurturing, and empathic environment for individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues to relationship problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and addictions. I am trained & certified in EMDR, which helps a person to quickly move through recent and past trauma and successfully overcome symptoms related to PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder). We'll work together to help you find a healthy balance between body, mind, and emotions that allow for success in relationships and work, self-empowerment, and to live a life full of hope, meaning, and purpose.
(818) 203-0246 View (818) 203-0246
Photo of Mihal A Coyle, Marriage & Family Therapist in Calabasas, CA
Mihal A Coyle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302
My main experience is working with Clients facing life transitions, relationships, trauma, addiction, and creative blockages.
Whether you are searching for someone to support you on your journey in challenging and painful life situations, assist you to know yourself better, explore with you creative and/or emotional blockages, or help you improve your relationship with others, I am here to do - please reach out.
My main experience is working with Clients facing life transitions, relationships, trauma, addiction, and creative blockages.
Whether you are searching for someone to support you on your journey in challenging and painful life situations, assist you to know yourself better, explore with you creative and/or emotional blockages, or help you improve your relationship with others, I am here to do - please reach out.
(818) 350-5225 View (818) 350-5225
Photo of Melissa Mose, Marriage & Family Therapist in Calabasas, CA
Melissa Mose
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302
I have been licensed since 1995. In that time, I've helped my clients find constructive ways of addressing anxiety, depression, loss, learning disabilities, substance abuse and relationship issues, and My goal is to help people find the strength and courage to overcome life's challenges. I have over 25 years of training and practice in meditation, and this deeply informs my work. Mindfulness has become a big word lately, but Mindfulness is difficult to achieve without some sort of practice. My job is to help people find their practice do they can dedicate themselves to change and growth.
I have been licensed since 1995. In that time, I've helped my clients find constructive ways of addressing anxiety, depression, loss, learning disabilities, substance abuse and relationship issues, and My goal is to help people find the strength and courage to overcome life's challenges. I have over 25 years of training and practice in meditation, and this deeply informs my work. Mindfulness has become a big word lately, but Mindfulness is difficult to achieve without some sort of practice. My job is to help people find their practice do they can dedicate themselves to change and growth.
(213) 260-0824 View (213) 260-0824
Photo of Gretchen Mattox, Marriage & Family Therapist in Calabasas, CA
Gretchen Mattox
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302  (Online Only)
Additionally, I specialize in pelvic pain, vaginismus, and addiction.
As the Clinical Director of a group practice and sex therapist, I want my patients to feel safe; trust opens the door to healing. I have successfully treated: infidelity, sexual abuse, pelvic pain, sexual compulsions, and erectile struggles. As Rumi said, "The wound is the place the Light enters you." Stress and unfinished emotional work can make us feel stuck or lead to destructive relationship patterns, and sexual acting out. My office is a shame free zone where we can unpack together a course best suited for your individual healing. Sex is a complex as each of us are as individuals. Shame can be in your past; a new life awaits!
Additionally, I specialize in pelvic pain, vaginismus, and addiction.
As the Clinical Director of a group practice and sex therapist, I want my patients to feel safe; trust opens the door to healing. I have successfully treated: infidelity, sexual abuse, pelvic pain, sexual compulsions, and erectile struggles. As Rumi said, "The wound is the place the Light enters you." Stress and unfinished emotional work can make us feel stuck or lead to destructive relationship patterns, and sexual acting out. My office is a shame free zone where we can unpack together a course best suited for your individual healing. Sex is a complex as each of us are as individuals. Shame can be in your past; a new life awaits!
(310) 773-4247 View (310) 773-4247
Photo of Lisa Markinson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Calabasas, CA
Lisa Markinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302  (Online Only)
Through the years I have gained extensive experience working in private practice, at a substance abuse treatment center and as a supervisor at Cedars Sinai Medical Center affiliate, TeenLine.
I am passionate about providing a safe and warm environment where my clients are free to explore and grow. I strongly believe that the collaborative nature of therapy can help one to see things anew and bring about the change you desire. With an integrative approach and my background in family systems and cognitive behavioral therapy, we will work together to uncover what stands in the way of your growth and develop the tools and insights that will move you towards a life filled with more self-acceptance, joy, and fulfillment. 

Through the years I have gained extensive experience working in private practice, at a substance abuse treatment center and as a supervisor at Cedars Sinai Medical Center affiliate, TeenLine.
I am passionate about providing a safe and warm environment where my clients are free to explore and grow. I strongly believe that the collaborative nature of therapy can help one to see things anew and bring about the change you desire. With an integrative approach and my background in family systems and cognitive behavioral therapy, we will work together to uncover what stands in the way of your growth and develop the tools and insights that will move you towards a life filled with more self-acceptance, joy, and fulfillment. 

(818) 600-2725 View (818) 600-2725
Photo of Robert McShane, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Calabasas, CA
Robert McShane
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302
I work with men navigating significant personal and professional life transitions. My areas of focus encompass anxiety, process addictions (sex, gambling, food, compulsive spending), substance abuse, body image, infidelity and relationship issues.
I work with men navigating significant personal and professional life transitions. My areas of focus encompass anxiety, process addictions (sex, gambling, food, compulsive spending), substance abuse, body image, infidelity and relationship issues.
(323) 827-8915 View (323) 827-8915
Photo of Julie L Morgavi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Calabasas, CA
Julie L Morgavi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, KAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302
I am versed in issues such as high-conflict divorce, parental alienation/adult child estrangement, trauma, grief & loss, addiction, suicide, 1st Generation issues, YA launching delays, phase of life transitions, as well as the anxiety, depression & existential angst which often accompanies this journey of life.
All roads lead to Rome! It doesn't matter where we jump in, if you’re ready, we’ll get there. My approach is based on Attachment Theory & CPTSD: the idea that much of our conflict & distress stems from old wounds & unmet needs. De-coding this blueprint provides a path toward healing & fulfillment. Relational issues, estrangement, Teen/YA issues & living life “on purpose” are all areas I am passionate about. I incorporate trauma-informed, conventional therapeutic modalities and a Buddhist Psychology perspective. I am a rabid ally and advocate for equality. Coming Soon: Psychedelic Assisted Therapy (currently Ketamine only).
I am versed in issues such as high-conflict divorce, parental alienation/adult child estrangement, trauma, grief & loss, addiction, suicide, 1st Generation issues, YA launching delays, phase of life transitions, as well as the anxiety, depression & existential angst which often accompanies this journey of life.
All roads lead to Rome! It doesn't matter where we jump in, if you’re ready, we’ll get there. My approach is based on Attachment Theory & CPTSD: the idea that much of our conflict & distress stems from old wounds & unmet needs. De-coding this blueprint provides a path toward healing & fulfillment. Relational issues, estrangement, Teen/YA issues & living life “on purpose” are all areas I am passionate about. I incorporate trauma-informed, conventional therapeutic modalities and a Buddhist Psychology perspective. I am a rabid ally and advocate for equality. Coming Soon: Psychedelic Assisted Therapy (currently Ketamine only).
(310) 356-0287 View (310) 356-0287
Photo of Seth Bricklin, Psychologist in Calabasas, CA
Seth Bricklin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have expertise in the treatment of a multitude of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and relationship issues.
I believe that therapy is a joint venture between therapist and client. Whether you are looking for short-term solution-focused work, or are seeking assistance for an issue requiring long-term care, I will work with you to identify the goals you wish to address and to develop a treatment plan that is right for you. I also conduct forensic evaluations of federal employees and have expertise in how physical injuries and work-related stress contribute to and interact with psychological disorders.
I have expertise in the treatment of a multitude of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and relationship issues.
I believe that therapy is a joint venture between therapist and client. Whether you are looking for short-term solution-focused work, or are seeking assistance for an issue requiring long-term care, I will work with you to identify the goals you wish to address and to develop a treatment plan that is right for you. I also conduct forensic evaluations of federal employees and have expertise in how physical injuries and work-related stress contribute to and interact with psychological disorders.
(818) 616-6463 View (818) 616-6463
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.