Therapists in Sacramento, CA

Photo of Holly Webb, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Holly Webb
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95811
If you are looking for relief from life’s difficulties, you’re in the right place. You don’t have to face life’s personal struggles and stressful situations alone. If you are suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, relationship difficulties or other sensitive life transitions, therapy may be an effective solution. A compassionate therapist can offer you support and help you find your way through current life challenges. You’ve already begun a step towards relief and change simply by considering counseling. My goal is to be an understanding and trustworthy partner in the process of creating positive life changes.
If you are looking for relief from life’s difficulties, you’re in the right place. You don’t have to face life’s personal struggles and stressful situations alone. If you are suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, relationship difficulties or other sensitive life transitions, therapy may be an effective solution. A compassionate therapist can offer you support and help you find your way through current life challenges. You’ve already begun a step towards relief and change simply by considering counseling. My goal is to be an understanding and trustworthy partner in the process of creating positive life changes.
(916) 512-8433 View (916) 512-8433
Photo of Chris Barley, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Sacramento, CA
Chris Barley
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAADC
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
Don't wait for a better time, delays in treating active Substance Use can have catastrophic results.
Break away from the painful, short lived New Years pledge. Or use your dry January to create meaningful, long lasting change. If getting back on the wagon or getting off drugs has been frustrating, try a different approach this year. If getting back to AA meetings or checking yourself into a program sounds unappealing or even futile you’re not alone. Solutions have that have failed in the past aren’t likely to work again. Recovery support, moderation management, relapse prevention, and compassionate, confidential care are my specialties. Ambulatory opiate detox and out of state or criminal justice assessment services available.
Don't wait for a better time, delays in treating active Substance Use can have catastrophic results.
Break away from the painful, short lived New Years pledge. Or use your dry January to create meaningful, long lasting change. If getting back on the wagon or getting off drugs has been frustrating, try a different approach this year. If getting back to AA meetings or checking yourself into a program sounds unappealing or even futile you’re not alone. Solutions have that have failed in the past aren’t likely to work again. Recovery support, moderation management, relapse prevention, and compassionate, confidential care are my specialties. Ambulatory opiate detox and out of state or criminal justice assessment services available.
(916) 507-0524 View (916) 507-0524
Photo of Michael Anthony Nevans, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Michael Anthony Nevans
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95822  (Online Only)
Mike likes to work with people who are ready to make changes in their life. They do not need to know exactly what that looks like or means yet, they just need to be sick and tired of feeling sick and tired. Mike enjoys working with people who have depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar, and addiction issues. He also practices couple therapy and likes to offer premarital counseling, empowerment couple's counseling, and helping the healing process post infidelity or other ruptures in the relationship. Mike spent 4 years working with people in an international setting in Tokyo and enjoys providing therapy in a multicultural space.
Mike likes to work with people who are ready to make changes in their life. They do not need to know exactly what that looks like or means yet, they just need to be sick and tired of feeling sick and tired. Mike enjoys working with people who have depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar, and addiction issues. He also practices couple therapy and likes to offer premarital counseling, empowerment couple's counseling, and helping the healing process post infidelity or other ruptures in the relationship. Mike spent 4 years working with people in an international setting in Tokyo and enjoys providing therapy in a multicultural space.
(925) 477-4985 View (925) 477-4985
Photo of Gwen Chinn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Gwen Chinn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95814  (Online Only)
As a psychotherapist, I’ve worked with various populations and people facing different challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, suicidal ideation and self-harm.
Whether you’re struggling with a crisis, life transition, feeling overwhelmed, or finding yourself stuck in unproductive patterns, there is no need to navigate this on your own. Therapy is about exploring the self in a way that allows you to grow through self-discovery. I focus on meeting clients where they are and seeing the world from their perspective, and go together from there.
As a psychotherapist, I’ve worked with various populations and people facing different challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, suicidal ideation and self-harm.
Whether you’re struggling with a crisis, life transition, feeling overwhelmed, or finding yourself stuck in unproductive patterns, there is no need to navigate this on your own. Therapy is about exploring the self in a way that allows you to grow through self-discovery. I focus on meeting clients where they are and seeing the world from their perspective, and go together from there.
(916) 312-1818 View (916) 312-1818
Photo of David Fahn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
David Fahn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95864
Is addiction destroying your life or that of a loved one’s? Is your behavior adversely impacting your personal relationships, job performance and self-esteem? Though it may not feel that way, there is hope; there is a way out. And I am here to help you. For the past 15 years, I have been helping individuals and families on their path to mental, physical and spiritual health.
Is addiction destroying your life or that of a loved one’s? Is your behavior adversely impacting your personal relationships, job performance and self-esteem? Though it may not feel that way, there is hope; there is a way out. And I am here to help you. For the past 15 years, I have been helping individuals and families on their path to mental, physical and spiritual health.
(916) 884-6726 View (916) 884-6726
Photo of Dawn Mehalakis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Dawn Mehalakis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95842  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I have been working as a therapist for 13 years. In my work, I am fortunate to have worked with both children and adults struggling in childhood abuse, traumatic experiences, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. In addition, I work with adults with Substance Abuse Disorder, caregivers caring for a mentally ill loved one, functional life skills, relationship issues, and parenting.
I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I have been working as a therapist for 13 years. In my work, I am fortunate to have worked with both children and adults struggling in childhood abuse, traumatic experiences, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. In addition, I work with adults with Substance Abuse Disorder, caregivers caring for a mentally ill loved one, functional life skills, relationship issues, and parenting.
(530) 940-9538 View (530) 940-9538
Photo of Heather Waddle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Heather Waddle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95820  (Online Only)
Welcome! Starting on a healing journey in therapy can be intimidating, but I'm here to make your experience a positive one. Using empathy and going at your pace is my goal. I have experience working with adults with a variety of symptoms. I have a passion working with depression, trauma, anxiety, gender dysphoria, formerly incarcerated, and substance misuse. I am competent in Narrative, CBT, DBT, restorative justice, and trauma focused approaches. I also have experience working with first responders including correctional staff. In addition, I have specialized training working with gender dysphoria and gender affirming assessments.
Welcome! Starting on a healing journey in therapy can be intimidating, but I'm here to make your experience a positive one. Using empathy and going at your pace is my goal. I have experience working with adults with a variety of symptoms. I have a passion working with depression, trauma, anxiety, gender dysphoria, formerly incarcerated, and substance misuse. I am competent in Narrative, CBT, DBT, restorative justice, and trauma focused approaches. I also have experience working with first responders including correctional staff. In addition, I have specialized training working with gender dysphoria and gender affirming assessments.
(916) 623-1980 View (916) 623-1980
Photo of Ann C Leber, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Ann C Leber
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95821
At Francine Farrell and Associates, we have a depth of knowledge and experience working with substance use disorders and the families affected by it.
I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for over 25 years. I believe that clients come to counseling not only to gain a better understanding of themselves, but with a desire to learn new skills and tools to apply to their lives. Please call me personally to discuss your needs.
At Francine Farrell and Associates, we have a depth of knowledge and experience working with substance use disorders and the families affected by it.
I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for over 25 years. I believe that clients come to counseling not only to gain a better understanding of themselves, but with a desire to learn new skills and tools to apply to their lives. Please call me personally to discuss your needs.
(916) 741-5426 View (916) 741-5426
Photo of Isaac Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Isaac Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MAT, LCSW, NTP
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
As a specialist with years of experience in the areas of addiction, anxiety, depression and spirituality, I help people get reconnected to who they really are, no longer burdened by the problems they come in with.
On the outside, things look great. You’ve become good at hiding how you really feel and putting on your “I-have-it-altogether” face. Inside, however, you’re feeling lost, out of touch and disconnected from yourself. Maybe your anxiety is causing you to lose sleep, or you find yourself isolating from friends and family because of depression. Maybe you're covering all of this up with drugs, alcohol or other risky behaviors. You’re not entirely sure how you got here but you know something needs to change. You deserve to feel reconnected, balanced, calm and happier. Let me help!
As a specialist with years of experience in the areas of addiction, anxiety, depression and spirituality, I help people get reconnected to who they really are, no longer burdened by the problems they come in with.
On the outside, things look great. You’ve become good at hiding how you really feel and putting on your “I-have-it-altogether” face. Inside, however, you’re feeling lost, out of touch and disconnected from yourself. Maybe your anxiety is causing you to lose sleep, or you find yourself isolating from friends and family because of depression. Maybe you're covering all of this up with drugs, alcohol or other risky behaviors. You’re not entirely sure how you got here but you know something needs to change. You deserve to feel reconnected, balanced, calm and happier. Let me help!
(916) 619-7744 View (916) 619-7744
Photo of Lupe Rodriguez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Lupe Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95811
My twenty years of experience in the field has equipped me with the skills to provide services to a myriad of populations on a wide variety of topics related to substance dependence, emotional issues, and the interdependence of mental and physical well-being.
Are you looking for a positive change and feel like your current path is no longer serving you? Are you numbing your emotions by engaging in uhealthy relationships with people, substances, food, shopping, gambling, screen time, etc? Then, I am grateful that our paths have crossed. Together, we can work towards attainment of greater balance and fulfillment through the healing of your whole self. You will find my approach to be facilitative rather than coercive and see that I aim to reinforce positive change in your life, no matter how small or incremental that change may be.
My twenty years of experience in the field has equipped me with the skills to provide services to a myriad of populations on a wide variety of topics related to substance dependence, emotional issues, and the interdependence of mental and physical well-being.
Are you looking for a positive change and feel like your current path is no longer serving you? Are you numbing your emotions by engaging in uhealthy relationships with people, substances, food, shopping, gambling, screen time, etc? Then, I am grateful that our paths have crossed. Together, we can work towards attainment of greater balance and fulfillment through the healing of your whole self. You will find my approach to be facilitative rather than coercive and see that I aim to reinforce positive change in your life, no matter how small or incremental that change may be.
(916) 764-3868 View (916) 764-3868
Photo of Riverbend Counseling Services, Counselor in Sacramento, CA
Riverbend Counseling Services
Counselor, MS, LPCC, CSAC, ICAADC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95831  (Online Only)
I also have 20+ years experience working in the field of addiction recovery.
As a therapist I am solutions-focused, inquisitive and relate-able, and will utilize a diverse range of theoretical approaches tailored to your individual needs, including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapies (CBT/DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Creative & Expressive, and Trauma Informed Therapy including EMDR (Certified Through EMDRIA). By integrating various evidenced based treatment protocols, we will collaborate to get where you want to go. My process is always to ask you, the client, what it is you want, what would that look like, and what is in your way of achieving your goals.
I also have 20+ years experience working in the field of addiction recovery.
As a therapist I am solutions-focused, inquisitive and relate-able, and will utilize a diverse range of theoretical approaches tailored to your individual needs, including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapies (CBT/DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Creative & Expressive, and Trauma Informed Therapy including EMDR (Certified Through EMDRIA). By integrating various evidenced based treatment protocols, we will collaborate to get where you want to go. My process is always to ask you, the client, what it is you want, what would that look like, and what is in your way of achieving your goals.
(916) 312-4066 View (916) 312-4066
Photo of Ron McCormack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Ron McCormack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
My specialties include substance abuse and relationship issues.
In-person therapy is where it’s at! Have you tried in-person therapy? If yes, then you know the power it can have to help. If no, then I urge you to reach out and schedule - with me or another therapist with an office. Let isolation be over. Being private with things is good, as far as it goes but doesn’t do much to move us out of endless loops or confusing despair. I have no agenda for you but to be well. What can I do to help?
My specialties include substance abuse and relationship issues.
In-person therapy is where it’s at! Have you tried in-person therapy? If yes, then you know the power it can have to help. If no, then I urge you to reach out and schedule - with me or another therapist with an office. Let isolation be over. Being private with things is good, as far as it goes but doesn’t do much to move us out of endless loops or confusing despair. I have no agenda for you but to be well. What can I do to help?
(916) 758-9328 View (916) 758-9328
Photo of Christine Rivlin, Counselor in Sacramento, CA
Christine Rivlin
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing addiction issues, and eating disorders.
I work primarily with adults who are wanting to manage symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I will be with you on your path to discovery, recovery, and finding the person you would like to become. I approach therapy with a client-centered approach in order to create a safe, comfortable space for you to share and express yourself, and your vulnerabilities. We will explore healthy ways to process your trauma, regulate difficult emotions, and restore broken relationships. I believe the trust built between Client and Therapist is powerful, and necessary in order to help you through your healing journey.
I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing addiction issues, and eating disorders.
I work primarily with adults who are wanting to manage symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I will be with you on your path to discovery, recovery, and finding the person you would like to become. I approach therapy with a client-centered approach in order to create a safe, comfortable space for you to share and express yourself, and your vulnerabilities. We will explore healthy ways to process your trauma, regulate difficult emotions, and restore broken relationships. I believe the trust built between Client and Therapist is powerful, and necessary in order to help you through your healing journey.
(415) 326-9859 View (415) 326-9859
Photo of Hazzel Angulo, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Sacramento, CA
Hazzel Angulo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
Trauma, anxiety, and addiction can make you feel stuck. The most important step towards healing is to address the unresolved emotion inside you. Healing requires feelings. Acceptance slowly dissolves pain. When we function from the fear and scarring of our trauma, the cycles continue until we learn how to transmute that energy into love. I apply a Holistic approach that integrates physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual forms of well-being, addressing the “whole” self. Through a holistic framework tailored to your unique needs, the goal is to support you develop a deeper understanding of the self on all these levels.
Trauma, anxiety, and addiction can make you feel stuck. The most important step towards healing is to address the unresolved emotion inside you. Healing requires feelings. Acceptance slowly dissolves pain. When we function from the fear and scarring of our trauma, the cycles continue until we learn how to transmute that energy into love. I apply a Holistic approach that integrates physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual forms of well-being, addressing the “whole” self. Through a holistic framework tailored to your unique needs, the goal is to support you develop a deeper understanding of the self on all these levels.
(213) 894-9098 View (213) 894-9098
Photo of K-Psych Counseling and Psychology Services, Psychologist in Sacramento, CA
K-Psych Counseling and Psychology Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95811  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! Are you struggling with feeling overwhelmed? Do you sleep too much or too little? Is it hard to find the motivation to get things done? Do you feel Stressed Out? We can help! K-Psych is a group practice with clinicians that can help you cope with symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma and addiction.
Accepting New Clients! Are you struggling with feeling overwhelmed? Do you sleep too much or too little? Is it hard to find the motivation to get things done? Do you feel Stressed Out? We can help! K-Psych is a group practice with clinicians that can help you cope with symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma and addiction.
(951) 309-9219 View (951) 309-9219
Photo of Debra Ruiz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Debra Ruiz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95838
I specialize in working with multicultural adolescents, adults, and aging individuals and groups suffering with multiple social and emotional impairments and disorders, including neuro-developmental, schizophrenia, mood and personality, PTSD and trauma, addiction, somatic experiencing, conduct disorders, memory loss disabilities, and criminals.
My name is Debra O'Brien Ruiz, MS, LMFT (LMFT104549) and am licensed in California with 10-years professional work experience. I believe you are the expert of your story and have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming daily challenges. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I radiate enthusiasm, compassion, and empathy. I am deeply committed to helping others. I motivate others to live a life of purpose.
I specialize in working with multicultural adolescents, adults, and aging individuals and groups suffering with multiple social and emotional impairments and disorders, including neuro-developmental, schizophrenia, mood and personality, PTSD and trauma, addiction, somatic experiencing, conduct disorders, memory loss disabilities, and criminals.
My name is Debra O'Brien Ruiz, MS, LMFT (LMFT104549) and am licensed in California with 10-years professional work experience. I believe you are the expert of your story and have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming daily challenges. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I radiate enthusiasm, compassion, and empathy. I am deeply committed to helping others. I motivate others to live a life of purpose.
(747) 529-7936 View (747) 529-7936
Photo of James G Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sacramento, CA
James G Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 94203  (Online Only)
I have experience in working with clients who often have addiction issues, sexual issues, legal issues, internet/gaming addiction, relationship issues and parenting issues, and struggles with self image and self worth.
I AM CURRENTLY ONLY ABLE TO SEE CLIENTS VIA V-TEL. I enjoy working with individuals that recognize that something needs to change and just aren't sure which way to go. Together, we can explore your motivation to change and learn to live life based on your values, goals, and dreams. We will take a solution focused approach, strength-based approach to help you become more aware, more loving and capable of self love, and create a fuller, richer life. Clients that see me will find themselves in a safe, non-judgmental space. We are free to explore problems from a variety of angles and approaches.
I have experience in working with clients who often have addiction issues, sexual issues, legal issues, internet/gaming addiction, relationship issues and parenting issues, and struggles with self image and self worth.
I AM CURRENTLY ONLY ABLE TO SEE CLIENTS VIA V-TEL. I enjoy working with individuals that recognize that something needs to change and just aren't sure which way to go. Together, we can explore your motivation to change and learn to live life based on your values, goals, and dreams. We will take a solution focused approach, strength-based approach to help you become more aware, more loving and capable of self love, and create a fuller, richer life. Clients that see me will find themselves in a safe, non-judgmental space. We are free to explore problems from a variety of angles and approaches.
(530) 319-5215 View (530) 319-5215
Photo of Karen Olson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Karen Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95820
Hi there, I'm Karen Olson, a licensed clinical social worker. I have been a social worker for over 20 years. I help people with issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic pain, divorce, and LGBTQIA+ issues. My approach is direct and frank and I enjoy helping individuals and couples identify their strengths and overcome challenges. I take an eclectic approach that includes a variety of narrative/motivational interviewing. My ideal client is amenable to my direct approach and is as invested as I am in achieving their goals. I like feedback from clients on how they are doing and how our sessions are going.
Hi there, I'm Karen Olson, a licensed clinical social worker. I have been a social worker for over 20 years. I help people with issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic pain, divorce, and LGBTQIA+ issues. My approach is direct and frank and I enjoy helping individuals and couples identify their strengths and overcome challenges. I take an eclectic approach that includes a variety of narrative/motivational interviewing. My ideal client is amenable to my direct approach and is as invested as I am in achieving their goals. I like feedback from clients on how they are doing and how our sessions are going.
(619) 374-8492 View (619) 374-8492
Photo of Lyudmila Kisina, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Lyudmila Kisina
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95814  (Online Only)
Welcome! You have taken an important step towards a journey of healing! As a licensed therapist and addiction counselor, I offer a holistic journey of healing and self-discovery, guided by the evidence-based practice of modern psychology. Our approach targets solution, not just symptom relief. When we are impacted by past hurts, disappointment, shame, or trauma - we may begin seeking ways to avoid ourselves. Addictions, codependent relationships, anxiety, depression, isolation - may start to manifest in your life. My work focuses on resolving these symptoms, by addressing the root causes, empowering you to build lasting change.
Welcome! You have taken an important step towards a journey of healing! As a licensed therapist and addiction counselor, I offer a holistic journey of healing and self-discovery, guided by the evidence-based practice of modern psychology. Our approach targets solution, not just symptom relief. When we are impacted by past hurts, disappointment, shame, or trauma - we may begin seeking ways to avoid ourselves. Addictions, codependent relationships, anxiety, depression, isolation - may start to manifest in your life. My work focuses on resolving these symptoms, by addressing the root causes, empowering you to build lasting change.
(858) 428-2638 View (858) 428-2638
Photo of Daniella Basin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Sacramento, CA
Daniella Basin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95814
Hi, I’m Daniella! I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, addiction, anxiety, trauma, and codependency. My goal is to support you in accessing the innate wisdom and resources you need in order to live your most authentic life and gain a deeper understanding of yourself. Together, we will explore the root causes of your feelings, uncover unconscious patterns in your life, and help you overcome whatever it is that limits you.
Hi, I’m Daniella! I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, addiction, anxiety, trauma, and codependency. My goal is to support you in accessing the innate wisdom and resources you need in order to live your most authentic life and gain a deeper understanding of yourself. Together, we will explore the root causes of your feelings, uncover unconscious patterns in your life, and help you overcome whatever it is that limits you.
(424) 203-4156 View (424) 203-4156
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.