Addiction Therapists in Topanga, CA

Photo of Ruby Corley
Ruby Corley
Registered Psychological Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topanga, CA 90290
I specialize in women’s health and the treatment of trauma and addictions.
I strive to bring light into the places and spaces where I used to try and find it. My personal experiences with addiction and my more recent transformation into motherhood have been the biggest driving forces behind my passion for helping others to find freedom, compassion, and wholeness.
I specialize in women’s health and the treatment of trauma and addictions.
I strive to bring light into the places and spaces where I used to try and find it. My personal experiences with addiction and my more recent transformation into motherhood have been the biggest driving forces behind my passion for helping others to find freedom, compassion, and wholeness.
(310) 388-4469 View (310) 388-4469
Photo of Carder Stout, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carder Stout
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Topanga, CA 90290
The past eight years I have had a private practice in Brentwood where I treats clients for anxiety, depression, addiction and trauma.
Hello, my name is Dr. Carder Stout. I want to thank you for joining me. You may be here because something in your life is not working. As a Depth Psychologist I believe that everyone has the capacity to be happy. My aim as a therapist is to heal those parts of you that are standing in the way. Let me help you connect with the joy in your life. I have been described as compassionate, calm and insightful. My patients tell me that I am present with them as a good listener and guide.
The past eight years I have had a private practice in Brentwood where I treats clients for anxiety, depression, addiction and trauma.
Hello, my name is Dr. Carder Stout. I want to thank you for joining me. You may be here because something in your life is not working. As a Depth Psychologist I believe that everyone has the capacity to be happy. My aim as a therapist is to heal those parts of you that are standing in the way. Let me help you connect with the joy in your life. I have been described as compassionate, calm and insightful. My patients tell me that I am present with them as a good listener and guide.
(424) 294-8975 View (424) 294-8975
Photo of April Mollner (Blanchette), LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
April Mollner (Blanchette)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Topanga, CA 90290  (Online Only)
I am a dedicated therapist specializing in trauma informed care using EMDR, sex & gender affirmative therapy and addiction & recovery support. With a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of their experiences, I bring a unique blend of empathy, expertise, and compassion to my practice. I have honed my skills in trauma therapy, providing a safe and supportive environment for my clients to process their past experiences and find healing. I understand the profound impact of trauma and I’m committed to empowering individuals to reclaim their sense of self, and move forward with resilience.
I am a dedicated therapist specializing in trauma informed care using EMDR, sex & gender affirmative therapy and addiction & recovery support. With a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of their experiences, I bring a unique blend of empathy, expertise, and compassion to my practice. I have honed my skills in trauma therapy, providing a safe and supportive environment for my clients to process their past experiences and find healing. I understand the profound impact of trauma and I’m committed to empowering individuals to reclaim their sense of self, and move forward with resilience.
(323) 672-4191 View (323) 672-4191
Photo of Melissa Garner-Lee, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Garner-Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Topanga, CA 90290
I can help you deal with life's challenges including issues of: trauma (PTSD), addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship/ family conflict, anger management, transition to parenting, concerns of aging/ end of life, LGBTQ concerns, child and adolescent concerns.
Would you like to reduce your suffering? Would you like freedom from destructive patterns of behavior? ------When we look deeply at ourselves...when we take the time to take care of ourselves with mindfulness and compassion, we begin to understand balance. I am committed to helping you learn how to stop living with self-sabotaging thoughts and behavior, to cultivate a life of emotional balance, deepen your connection with loved ones, resolve trauma and conflict, process grief and loss and become your best self.
I can help you deal with life's challenges including issues of: trauma (PTSD), addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship/ family conflict, anger management, transition to parenting, concerns of aging/ end of life, LGBTQ concerns, child and adolescent concerns.
Would you like to reduce your suffering? Would you like freedom from destructive patterns of behavior? ------When we look deeply at ourselves...when we take the time to take care of ourselves with mindfulness and compassion, we begin to understand balance. I am committed to helping you learn how to stop living with self-sabotaging thoughts and behavior, to cultivate a life of emotional balance, deepen your connection with loved ones, resolve trauma and conflict, process grief and loss and become your best self.
(310) 881-8545 View (310) 881-8545
Photo of Setareh Vatan, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Setareh Vatan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Topanga, CA 90290  (Online Only)
I am an advocate for the soul’s desire for expansion and connection with others. I work in the service of the psyche to bring unconscious material to the conscious to facilitate sustainable change, transformation, and growth. I welcome you as you are, whether you are suffering from a dependency, such as problematic substance use, or a mental health condition, like trauma-related difficulties. I incorporate both the Twelve Step and harm reduction methods in my practice. Since I honor and see the value in both modalities, I will work collaboratively with you to determine which approach would best serve your path towards wholeness.
I am an advocate for the soul’s desire for expansion and connection with others. I work in the service of the psyche to bring unconscious material to the conscious to facilitate sustainable change, transformation, and growth. I welcome you as you are, whether you are suffering from a dependency, such as problematic substance use, or a mental health condition, like trauma-related difficulties. I incorporate both the Twelve Step and harm reduction methods in my practice. Since I honor and see the value in both modalities, I will work collaboratively with you to determine which approach would best serve your path towards wholeness.
(818) 351-1297 View (818) 351-1297
Photo of Katherine Merritt, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katherine Merritt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Topanga, CA 90290
Themes such as: attachment, addiction, grief, shame, guilt, are all things we can explore.
Relationships give our lives meaning, but when difficulties happen, it can leave us wondering, ‘Am I the problem’? I believe our well-being is directly linked to the health of these connections. Together, we will look at the unconscious dynamics that shape how you relate to yourself and others with the goal of fostering deeper self-understanding and more connection in your life.
Themes such as: attachment, addiction, grief, shame, guilt, are all things we can explore.
Relationships give our lives meaning, but when difficulties happen, it can leave us wondering, ‘Am I the problem’? I believe our well-being is directly linked to the health of these connections. Together, we will look at the unconscious dynamics that shape how you relate to yourself and others with the goal of fostering deeper self-understanding and more connection in your life.
(310) 919-2387 View (310) 919-2387
Photo of Angela M. Aiello, MA, MFT, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angela M. Aiello
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Topanga, CA 90290
I have specific expertise working with physicians, health professionals as well as creative people struggling with burnout, addictions, and relationship issues.
I am a trauma/ addiction and Couples psychotherapist with an MFT license and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. I have an engaging, active, personable style immediately putting clients at ease for a strong therapeutic bond necessary for deeper insights and behavioral change. I am trained in psychodynamic, attachment, and somatic modalities. I am a LEVEL II trained PACT (psychobiological approach to couples therapy) couple therapist as well as a facilitator for mindfulness and various relapse prevention models .
I have specific expertise working with physicians, health professionals as well as creative people struggling with burnout, addictions, and relationship issues.
I am a trauma/ addiction and Couples psychotherapist with an MFT license and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. I have an engaging, active, personable style immediately putting clients at ease for a strong therapeutic bond necessary for deeper insights and behavioral change. I am trained in psychodynamic, attachment, and somatic modalities. I am a LEVEL II trained PACT (psychobiological approach to couples therapy) couple therapist as well as a facilitator for mindfulness and various relapse prevention models .
(424) 294-8910 View (424) 294-8910
Photo of Molly Binenfeld, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Molly Binenfeld
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Topanga, CA 90290  (Online Only)
In addition to working in private practice, I also work in treatment, where I help clients navigate recovery from eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, and substance use.
I create a space for you to bring your authentic self into the room without feeling like you have to show up in the "right" way. My approach is direct, compassionate, practical, and personalized towards your values, goals, and experience. My lived and professional experience allows me to help you create a more fulfilling and congruent life while supporting you in coping with daily stressors, relationship dissatisfaction, anxiety, and depression. I am passionate about helping you overcome the challenges you face in today's society, including diet culture, body image, social media pressure, and unrealistic beauty standards.
In addition to working in private practice, I also work in treatment, where I help clients navigate recovery from eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, and substance use.
I create a space for you to bring your authentic self into the room without feeling like you have to show up in the "right" way. My approach is direct, compassionate, practical, and personalized towards your values, goals, and experience. My lived and professional experience allows me to help you create a more fulfilling and congruent life while supporting you in coping with daily stressors, relationship dissatisfaction, anxiety, and depression. I am passionate about helping you overcome the challenges you face in today's society, including diet culture, body image, social media pressure, and unrealistic beauty standards.
(310) 861-7350 View (310) 861-7350
Photo of Julie L Morgavi, LMFT, KAP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie L Morgavi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, KAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Topanga, CA 90290
Neurodiversity, relational repair, and enhancement, estrangement, high-conflict divorce, parental alienation, trauma, grief & loss, addiction, suicide, 1st Generation issues, YA launching delays, phase of life transitions, as well as the anxiety, depression & existential angst that 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 POV is through a Neurodiverse lens and incorporates Attachment Theory and C-PTSD with the idea that much of our conflict and distress stems from old wounds & unmet needs that can often be traced back to families of origin and pressures to conform to societal expectations in a neurotypical world. I incorporate trauma-informed, therapeutic modalities, am IFS-informed with a Buddhist Psychology perspective. I am a rabid ally and advocate for equality and trained in psychedelic-assisted therapy (currently Ketamine only).
Neurodiversity, relational repair, and enhancement, estrangement, high-conflict divorce, parental alienation, trauma, grief & loss, addiction, suicide, 1st Generation issues, YA launching delays, phase of life transitions, as well as the anxiety, depression & existential angst that 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 POV is through a Neurodiverse lens and incorporates Attachment Theory and C-PTSD with the idea that much of our conflict and distress stems from old wounds & unmet needs that can often be traced back to families of origin and pressures to conform to societal expectations in a neurotypical world. I incorporate trauma-informed, therapeutic modalities, am IFS-informed with a Buddhist Psychology perspective. I am a rabid ally and advocate for equality and trained in psychedelic-assisted therapy (currently Ketamine only).
(310) 356-0287 View (310) 356-0287
Photo of Denise Payne, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Denise Payne
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topanga, CA 90290
My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. We can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. We can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
(805) 246-7440 View (805) 246-7440
Photo of Jonathan Makiri, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jonathan Makiri
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Topanga, CA 90290  (Online Only)
I have two primary areas of focus: couples and men. When couples feel stuck they tend to limit their perspectives and possibilities and blame each other. I work to identify entrenched patterns of dysfunction and offer realistic and practical forms of communication that foster improved connection, trust and hope. I encourage couples to take responsibility for the relationship they have created and support them to embody their authentic selves within their relationship. I utilize Psychodynamic, Family Systems & Attachment-Focused therapy to focus on how your history impacts your current relationships.
I have two primary areas of focus: couples and men. When couples feel stuck they tend to limit their perspectives and possibilities and blame each other. I work to identify entrenched patterns of dysfunction and offer realistic and practical forms of communication that foster improved connection, trust and hope. I encourage couples to take responsibility for the relationship they have created and support them to embody their authentic selves within their relationship. I utilize Psychodynamic, Family Systems & Attachment-Focused therapy to focus on how your history impacts your current relationships.
(424) 622-5134 View (424) 622-5134
Photo of Alexander Tarrant, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Alexander Tarrant
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Topanga, CA 90290
Drawing on my training in Somatic Experiencing and my lifelong creative practice, I am able to be of unique service to my clients. Whether it be depression, anxiety, trauma, or perhaps something you don’t have words for, I am open, non-judgmental, and curious. I pride myself on working with clients who are new to therapy, suspicious of therapy, or previously had a challenging experience with therapy. For clients who feel stuck, let's work together to find creative ways to invite movement into your experience of life.
Drawing on my training in Somatic Experiencing and my lifelong creative practice, I am able to be of unique service to my clients. Whether it be depression, anxiety, trauma, or perhaps something you don’t have words for, I am open, non-judgmental, and curious. I pride myself on working with clients who are new to therapy, suspicious of therapy, or previously had a challenging experience with therapy. For clients who feel stuck, let's work together to find creative ways to invite movement into your experience of life.
(310) 861-9271 View (310) 861-9271
Photo of Dianne Porchia, MA, DMBM
Dianne Porchia
MA, DMBM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topanga, CA 90290
Dianne Porchia is featured in HEAL Documentary film for her successful healing work with advance stage cancer client who remains cancer free over 5 years after diagnosis with stage IV colorectal cancer. Porchia's unique holistic approach to healing integrates the principles and practice of mind-body-heart-soul energy medicine, epigenetics, psychoneuroimmunology and heart-centered communication skills to reduce mental-emotional stress, support immune function and create and maintain successful and loving relationships through high stress life challenges such as divorce, death, loss of job, serious illness, disease and cancer.
Dianne Porchia is featured in HEAL Documentary film for her successful healing work with advance stage cancer client who remains cancer free over 5 years after diagnosis with stage IV colorectal cancer. Porchia's unique holistic approach to healing integrates the principles and practice of mind-body-heart-soul energy medicine, epigenetics, psychoneuroimmunology and heart-centered communication skills to reduce mental-emotional stress, support immune function and create and maintain successful and loving relationships through high stress life challenges such as divorce, death, loss of job, serious illness, disease and cancer.
(310) 627-2585 View (310) 627-2585
Photo of Jon Century, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jon Century
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Topanga, CA 90290
What meaning are you making about your struggles? Whether it’s depression, anxiety, a spiritual crisis, or relational issues, we all try to make sense of our pain through a personal lens shaped by cultural, societal, or spiritual beliefs to name a few. But sometimes, the meaning we create adds to our suffering. Together, we will explore & dismantle the stories & patterns of relating that no longer support you and find the path to living a more authentic life filled with joy and purpose.
What meaning are you making about your struggles? Whether it’s depression, anxiety, a spiritual crisis, or relational issues, we all try to make sense of our pain through a personal lens shaped by cultural, societal, or spiritual beliefs to name a few. But sometimes, the meaning we create adds to our suffering. Together, we will explore & dismantle the stories & patterns of relating that no longer support you and find the path to living a more authentic life filled with joy and purpose.
(310) 561-1685 View (310) 561-1685
Photo of Alison Young, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alison Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topanga, CA 90290
Are you feeling like relationships shouldn't be this hard? Maybe you wonder why you feel so drained and let down but drawn in at the same time? Tired of constantly questioning yourself, wondering if you did or said something wrong? Anxiety, bodily tension and self-blame feeling too much like the norm? Perhaps you have found ways to feel temporary relief only to have these feelings resurface. I understand these feelings and can offer a path out of self-blame and into a more empowered state of being. Call or text me to set up a free 15-minute phone consultation.
Are you feeling like relationships shouldn't be this hard? Maybe you wonder why you feel so drained and let down but drawn in at the same time? Tired of constantly questioning yourself, wondering if you did or said something wrong? Anxiety, bodily tension and self-blame feeling too much like the norm? Perhaps you have found ways to feel temporary relief only to have these feelings resurface. I understand these feelings and can offer a path out of self-blame and into a more empowered state of being. Call or text me to set up a free 15-minute phone consultation.
(424) 235-1149 View (424) 235-1149
Photo of Nicolle Alex, LMFT, CLIN, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicolle Alex
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CLIN
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Topanga, CA 90290
I assist clients to help understand their attachment styles and the unconscious forces that can play in current behaviors, thoughts, and emotions leading to addictions and other maladaptive behaviors.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? You're not alone. You've got more strength inside you than you might realize, and I'm here to help you reconnect with it. In my practice, I strive to create a nurturing environment for my clients—a safe space where you can explore your emotions and experiences without fear of judgment. Together, we'll gently navigate through the challenges you're facing, uncover valuable insights and develop strategies to help you cope. Whatever you're going through, I'm here to offer you compassion and support as you journey towards healing and growth. You don't have to face this alone.
I assist clients to help understand their attachment styles and the unconscious forces that can play in current behaviors, thoughts, and emotions leading to addictions and other maladaptive behaviors.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? You're not alone. You've got more strength inside you than you might realize, and I'm here to help you reconnect with it. In my practice, I strive to create a nurturing environment for my clients—a safe space where you can explore your emotions and experiences without fear of judgment. Together, we'll gently navigate through the challenges you're facing, uncover valuable insights and develop strategies to help you cope. Whatever you're going through, I'm here to offer you compassion and support as you journey towards healing and growth. You don't have to face this alone.
(747) 298-5648 View (747) 298-5648
Photo of Alex Widas, Rev, CPATP, CIAYT, ERYT500, CMT, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Alex Widas
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, Rev, CPATP, CIAYT, ERYT500, CMT
Verified Verified
Topanga, CA 90290  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We all have the capacities for joy, brilliance, creativity, and love. This gets blocked by the ordinary and/or extraordinary stress and trauma we each experience throughout our life. Therapy is a great way to move through these blocks, live into a more meaningful and fulfilling life, and become the person you were born to be.
We all have the capacities for joy, brilliance, creativity, and love. This gets blocked by the ordinary and/or extraordinary stress and trauma we each experience throughout our life. Therapy is a great way to move through these blocks, live into a more meaningful and fulfilling life, and become the person you were born to be.
(415) 991-4211 View (415) 991-4211

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Paige Sefton, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paige Sefton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, life transitions, conflict or general life stressors, I can help you find the tools you need to get where you need to be and find a place of peace and self reliance.
Sometimes we need someone to walk alongside us as we navigate life issues that come up and feel overwhelming, hopeless, uncomfortable or even insurmountable. I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space to work through these issues and improve the quality of your life
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, life transitions, conflict or general life stressors, I can help you find the tools you need to get where you need to be and find a place of peace and self reliance.
Sometimes we need someone to walk alongside us as we navigate life issues that come up and feel overwhelming, hopeless, uncomfortable or even insurmountable. I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space to work through these issues and improve the quality of your life
(747) 223-8025 View (747) 223-8025
Photo of Mark Frankle, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mark Frankle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302
Maybe you can't get past a traumatic event or heart breaking loss. Or you just can't stop worrying, or your life hasn’t turned out the way you hoped. For over 25 years I've helped people through their most difficult moments. With compassion and proven professional techniques, EMDR, Cognitive Restructuring, Humanistic, and Chemical Dependency Counseling, you can create that better self. Let’s put an end to the pain, or grief, or unmanageable addiction. Call me today and so we can talk about how I can help. There is hope. There is a wonderful life waiting for you.
Maybe you can't get past a traumatic event or heart breaking loss. Or you just can't stop worrying, or your life hasn’t turned out the way you hoped. For over 25 years I've helped people through their most difficult moments. With compassion and proven professional techniques, EMDR, Cognitive Restructuring, Humanistic, and Chemical Dependency Counseling, you can create that better self. Let’s put an end to the pain, or grief, or unmanageable addiction. Call me today and so we can talk about how I can help. There is hope. There is a wonderful life waiting for you.
(747) 246-7454 View (747) 246-7454
Photo of Michele Ryan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
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

See more therapy options for Topanga

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.