Photo of Adam Luke, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Adam Luke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596  (Online Only)
My strengths as a therapist are helping people who are processing, trauma, self worth, self-esteem issues, substance abuse/recovery, couples counseling, relational conflict, teenage males and mens issues.
One of the scariest parts of therapy is the unknown. Our fear of therapy focuses on what we will have to say, the things we will have to feel but rarely when we think of therapy do we focus on the things we may find within ourselves. Like the courage to speak power to our own voice. The reality that we are not the sum of the worst things that have happened to us. Hell, maybe that we have always been valuable and we never deserved the way we were treated, the hurt we were given or the hurt that is still present within us. It is through our therapeutic process that we are able to organize your thoughts and prioritize your voice.
My strengths as a therapist are helping people who are processing, trauma, self worth, self-esteem issues, substance abuse/recovery, couples counseling, relational conflict, teenage males and mens issues.
One of the scariest parts of therapy is the unknown. Our fear of therapy focuses on what we will have to say, the things we will have to feel but rarely when we think of therapy do we focus on the things we may find within ourselves. Like the courage to speak power to our own voice. The reality that we are not the sum of the worst things that have happened to us. Hell, maybe that we have always been valuable and we never deserved the way we were treated, the hurt we were given or the hurt that is still present within us. It is through our therapeutic process that we are able to organize your thoughts and prioritize your voice.
(657) 837-1884 View (657) 837-1884
Photo of Kevin J Kuhlow, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Walnut Creek, CA
Kevin J Kuhlow
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAADC
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94595  (Online Only)
My expertise lies in Executive Coaching, Human Performance Improvement, and Addiction Treatment with diversified experience that includes recent positions as a Counselor for Addiction Recovery and former role as an Advisor to high-net-worth clients. I have focused on leveraging combined background to provide advisement to executives and other professionals struggling with addiction. I am currently completing a Ph.D. degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, and previously earned a Master’s degree in Addiction Studies. Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LAADC).
My expertise lies in Executive Coaching, Human Performance Improvement, and Addiction Treatment with diversified experience that includes recent positions as a Counselor for Addiction Recovery and former role as an Advisor to high-net-worth clients. I have focused on leveraging combined background to provide advisement to executives and other professionals struggling with addiction. I am currently completing a Ph.D. degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, and previously earned a Master’s degree in Addiction Studies. Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LAADC).
(925) 744-6912 View (925) 744-6912
Photo of Eric Anderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Eric Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CSAT-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Has your addictive behavior gotten out of control? Are you struggling with pornography or compulsive sexual behavior? Do you need to repair damage caused in your relationship or rebuild trust? You are not alone and there is a way through it. I am the founder and clinical director of Pathway Therapy Center where we specialize in helping clients get through the crisis that addiction causes and work to find recovery and healing. Further, I offer weekly Men's recovery groups to help building community and reduce shame around addiction; an essential piece of the recovery process.
Has your addictive behavior gotten out of control? Are you struggling with pornography or compulsive sexual behavior? Do you need to repair damage caused in your relationship or rebuild trust? You are not alone and there is a way through it. I am the founder and clinical director of Pathway Therapy Center where we specialize in helping clients get through the crisis that addiction causes and work to find recovery and healing. Further, I offer weekly Men's recovery groups to help building community and reduce shame around addiction; an essential piece of the recovery process.
(925) 396-5267 View (925) 396-5267
Photo of Jesse Tichenor, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Jesse Tichenor
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596  (Online Only)
Ease. Connection. Purpose. Joy. These are the birthright of every human. When they’re hard to find, therapy can help. I have seen again and again that even the deepest wounds and most entrenched stagnation can give way—with the right kinds of skilled support—to growth, transformation, and flourishing. Whether you struggle with depression, anxiety, burnout, addiction, PTSD, relational conflict, self-doubt, or just want to live with more vitality and authenticity, I would be honored to accompany you in your journey. I particularly love assisting social justice leaders to embody the wellness they strive to make possible for others.
Ease. Connection. Purpose. Joy. These are the birthright of every human. When they’re hard to find, therapy can help. I have seen again and again that even the deepest wounds and most entrenched stagnation can give way—with the right kinds of skilled support—to growth, transformation, and flourishing. Whether you struggle with depression, anxiety, burnout, addiction, PTSD, relational conflict, self-doubt, or just want to live with more vitality and authenticity, I would be honored to accompany you in your journey. I particularly love assisting social justice leaders to embody the wellness they strive to make possible for others.
(925) 438-0298 View (925) 438-0298
Photo of Liana Kostandyan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Liana Kostandyan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
Have you ever asked yourself if a positive change can happen when you can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel? I will say, “Yes, it can!” I am a psychotherapist specializing in treatment for depressive disorders, PTSD, anxiety, impulse control, grief, trauma, and substance use disorders in adolescents and adults. My practice focuses on targeting ineffective behaviors, habits, and beliefs that affect activities of daily functioning. I meet my clients where they are and help them learn how to cope effectively with life stressors to building healthier relationships with themselves and their loved ones.
Have you ever asked yourself if a positive change can happen when you can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel? I will say, “Yes, it can!” I am a psychotherapist specializing in treatment for depressive disorders, PTSD, anxiety, impulse control, grief, trauma, and substance use disorders in adolescents and adults. My practice focuses on targeting ineffective behaviors, habits, and beliefs that affect activities of daily functioning. I meet my clients where they are and help them learn how to cope effectively with life stressors to building healthier relationships with themselves and their loved ones.
(650) 297-0589 View (650) 297-0589
Photo of Ines M Vaniman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Ines M Vaniman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
I have worked extensively with adults and athletes suffering from a wide range of issues such as performance anxiety, relationship issues, substance abuse, depression, psychosis and PTSD.
There are so many different reasons to seek therapy and it is my job to get you to where you want to get, as quickly as possible. I am a down to earth, experienced therapist. I use scientifically proven approaches, based on the needs and preferences of my patients. I focus on building strong relationships and providing a space where we can develop and implement a plan to make meaningful change happen. I have over 15 years of experience working in this field and feel very passionate about this work.
I have worked extensively with adults and athletes suffering from a wide range of issues such as performance anxiety, relationship issues, substance abuse, depression, psychosis and PTSD.
There are so many different reasons to seek therapy and it is my job to get you to where you want to get, as quickly as possible. I am a down to earth, experienced therapist. I use scientifically proven approaches, based on the needs and preferences of my patients. I focus on building strong relationships and providing a space where we can develop and implement a plan to make meaningful change happen. I have over 15 years of experience working in this field and feel very passionate about this work.
(925) 246-2964 View (925) 246-2964
Photo of Alan Robert Godfrey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Alan Robert Godfrey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94597  (Online Only)
Having trouble changing habits or becoming your best self? Experiencing hardship in life or marriage? Talking to someone helps, and I want to be there for you. I focus on helping men find relief from addictions and emotional distress. I enjoy partnering with parents in addressing emotional/behavioral concerns in children/teens. I believe God's intervention in counseling is found in knowing our true self through Christ's perspective. No matter where you are, I'll meet you there. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, with my MA in MFT and PCC from St. Mary's College.
Having trouble changing habits or becoming your best self? Experiencing hardship in life or marriage? Talking to someone helps, and I want to be there for you. I focus on helping men find relief from addictions and emotional distress. I enjoy partnering with parents in addressing emotional/behavioral concerns in children/teens. I believe God's intervention in counseling is found in knowing our true self through Christ's perspective. No matter where you are, I'll meet you there. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, with my MA in MFT and PCC from St. Mary's College.
(925) 684-8924 View (925) 684-8924
Photo of Phillip H Lolonis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Phillip H Lolonis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I specialize in guiding individuals and families through intricate paths of healing, offering a unique blend of evidence-based models tailored to your specific needs. Whether you are suffering from anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, habits/addictions, perfectionism, or grief, my holistic approach spans every facet of life – from home to work, school to sports. With expertise as a guide and therapist, I excel with those who enter with motivation to address their suffering and make the deliberate choice to dedicate time to their healing journey. This is 360 healing and I am here to help you.
I specialize in guiding individuals and families through intricate paths of healing, offering a unique blend of evidence-based models tailored to your specific needs. Whether you are suffering from anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, habits/addictions, perfectionism, or grief, my holistic approach spans every facet of life – from home to work, school to sports. With expertise as a guide and therapist, I excel with those who enter with motivation to address their suffering and make the deliberate choice to dedicate time to their healing journey. This is 360 healing and I am here to help you.
(925) 420-8093 View (925) 420-8093
Photo of Alves Psychotherapy , Psychologist in Walnut Creek, CA
Alves Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
I have dedicated over 30 years to provide an avenue for healing to survivors of trauma. As an integrative therapist I am not restricted to a particular methodology or school of thought. Instead, I can draw on different methodologies and treatment modalities. I am a therapist who gets to the heart of the matter quickly. I can assist you in finding a higher level of inner peace. In this therapeutic relationship, you are nurtured while dealing with challenges, and together, we will explore practical solutions and strategies for your journey.
I have dedicated over 30 years to provide an avenue for healing to survivors of trauma. As an integrative therapist I am not restricted to a particular methodology or school of thought. Instead, I can draw on different methodologies and treatment modalities. I am a therapist who gets to the heart of the matter quickly. I can assist you in finding a higher level of inner peace. In this therapeutic relationship, you are nurtured while dealing with challenges, and together, we will explore practical solutions and strategies for your journey.
(925) 243-7061 View (925) 243-7061
Photo of Lisa Marie Tannehill, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Lisa Marie Tannehill
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Hi! I'm so glad you're here. Welcome to my profile. Many of the clients I've worked with have experienced a sense of feeling stuck in some area of their life whether it's in their relationships with themselves or with others. They desire for their life to look different, but are at a loss of how to create the change they're longing for and only end up feeling anxious, depressed, or attempting to fill the void or distract from the feelings of overwhelm that a different way of life is possible.
Hi! I'm so glad you're here. Welcome to my profile. Many of the clients I've worked with have experienced a sense of feeling stuck in some area of their life whether it's in their relationships with themselves or with others. They desire for their life to look different, but are at a loss of how to create the change they're longing for and only end up feeling anxious, depressed, or attempting to fill the void or distract from the feelings of overwhelm that a different way of life is possible.
(626) 247-3306 View (626) 247-3306
Photo of Erica Thiessen, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Walnut Creek, CA
Erica Thiessen
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596  (Online Only)
Life gets tangled up; it doesn’t have to stay that way. You may be wrestling with emotional ups and downs, life transitions, grief and loss, or strained family dynamics. You could be exploring future options, challenges from the past, or integrating life experiences into your personal or spiritual framework. Whether preparing for adulthood or navigating life's myriad of challenges, my clients are looking for a safe and empathetic space in which to unravel patterns and perspectives. They are seeking to develop a stronger sense of their own strengths and abilities with which to navigate life’s journey.
Life gets tangled up; it doesn’t have to stay that way. You may be wrestling with emotional ups and downs, life transitions, grief and loss, or strained family dynamics. You could be exploring future options, challenges from the past, or integrating life experiences into your personal or spiritual framework. Whether preparing for adulthood or navigating life's myriad of challenges, my clients are looking for a safe and empathetic space in which to unravel patterns and perspectives. They are seeking to develop a stronger sense of their own strengths and abilities with which to navigate life’s journey.
(707) 657-0933 View (707) 657-0933
Photo of Lisa Olson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Lisa Olson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PPS
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
You're lost in the weeds of to-do's, obligations, & responsibilities; your mind a cacophony of distractions clamoring for your attention. At some point, this life you built got so busy that you're no longer enjoying it. Instead, you're overwhelmed by the anxiety of it all; sure that something will go horribly wrong. You tell yourself that these worries aren't real, just scary stories you contemplate- your own "monster under the bed". So you push them to the back of your mind and slap a smile on your face, forging on. Unfortunately, until we open the door to face the boogeyman, that gnawing feeling of dread won't ever really go away.
You're lost in the weeds of to-do's, obligations, & responsibilities; your mind a cacophony of distractions clamoring for your attention. At some point, this life you built got so busy that you're no longer enjoying it. Instead, you're overwhelmed by the anxiety of it all; sure that something will go horribly wrong. You tell yourself that these worries aren't real, just scary stories you contemplate- your own "monster under the bed". So you push them to the back of your mind and slap a smile on your face, forging on. Unfortunately, until we open the door to face the boogeyman, that gnawing feeling of dread won't ever really go away.
(530) 464-6407 View (530) 464-6407
Photo of Remarkable Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Remarkable Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
At some point, we all struggle to adjust to change and fail to respond to life’s challenges with our best effort. It’s normal to feel stuck. We at Remarkable Services (RS) believe people inherently have what it takes within themselves to adjust, change and heal. No matter if it’s a challenging work situation, a parenting struggle, a tough year of high school or college, we all know what it feels like to struggle. Parents and their children are not immune, in that over the course of the first 18 years of life there are bound to be countless transitions, developments, change and of course, points of contention. RS is here to help!
At some point, we all struggle to adjust to change and fail to respond to life’s challenges with our best effort. It’s normal to feel stuck. We at Remarkable Services (RS) believe people inherently have what it takes within themselves to adjust, change and heal. No matter if it’s a challenging work situation, a parenting struggle, a tough year of high school or college, we all know what it feels like to struggle. Parents and their children are not immune, in that over the course of the first 18 years of life there are bound to be countless transitions, developments, change and of course, points of contention. RS is here to help!
(925) 436-1725 View (925) 436-1725
Photo of Eric Sherlock, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Walnut Creek, CA
Eric Sherlock
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MDiv, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Sometimes our relationships with others, or ourselves, get stuck. We may have lost direction, purpose, or meaning, and we become unsure of who we are or who we are in our relationships with other people. We may feel alone, sad, or scared. Some of us become overwhelmed by naming these emotions. Some of us may choose to isolate ourselves and think we must navigate this life alone. In these moments, we are invited to pay attention; when we do, we begin healing. Therapy can be a gift, inviting you to look inward and grow.
Sometimes our relationships with others, or ourselves, get stuck. We may have lost direction, purpose, or meaning, and we become unsure of who we are or who we are in our relationships with other people. We may feel alone, sad, or scared. Some of us become overwhelmed by naming these emotions. Some of us may choose to isolate ourselves and think we must navigate this life alone. In these moments, we are invited to pay attention; when we do, we begin healing. Therapy can be a gift, inviting you to look inward and grow.
(925) 690-2816 View (925) 690-2816
Photo of Richard Hill, Psychologist in Walnut Creek, CA
Richard Hill
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596  (Online Only)
Although most people are depressed or angry at times, they generally find a way to deal with the situation. There are times, however, when a person loses hope or is overwhelmed. They or others decide they might use some help. Sometimes a woman or a man decides that they would like to adjust their life style and emphasize their sense of self. If you work in Silicon Valley, I can use my experience in industry to help you unblock your potential and design effective strategies for greater satisfaction. If you seek spiritual depth, my years as a guide may help unfold meaning.
Although most people are depressed or angry at times, they generally find a way to deal with the situation. There are times, however, when a person loses hope or is overwhelmed. They or others decide they might use some help. Sometimes a woman or a man decides that they would like to adjust their life style and emphasize their sense of self. If you work in Silicon Valley, I can use my experience in industry to help you unblock your potential and design effective strategies for greater satisfaction. If you seek spiritual depth, my years as a guide may help unfold meaning.
(408) 641-5167 View (408) 641-5167

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Norval J. Hickman III, Psychologist in Walnut Creek, CA
Norval J. Hickman III
Psychologist, PhD, MPH
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Danville, CA 94526
My approach to therapy integrates evidence-based practices grounded in the psychological literature. I have experience working with adolescents and adults to reduce or eliminate: anxiety, stress, and anger issues; depressive and bipolar mood symptom management; relationship, work, and school issues; problems with rumination and repetitive behaviors, and substance use problems. The structure of sessions varies based on a client's needs and can focus on: processing life events, understanding past and current issues, moving through difficult emotions, or learning skills for sustained behavior change and improved emotional processing.
My approach to therapy integrates evidence-based practices grounded in the psychological literature. I have experience working with adolescents and adults to reduce or eliminate: anxiety, stress, and anger issues; depressive and bipolar mood symptom management; relationship, work, and school issues; problems with rumination and repetitive behaviors, and substance use problems. The structure of sessions varies based on a client's needs and can focus on: processing life events, understanding past and current issues, moving through difficult emotions, or learning skills for sustained behavior change and improved emotional processing.
(510) 725-4573 x704 View (510) 725-4573 x704
Photo of Patty Shirley - East Bay Christian Counseling - Serving California And Idaho, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Patty Shirley - East Bay Christian Counseling - Serving California And Idaho
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, CATC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Danville, CA 94526
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Addictions Treatment Counselor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, certified in addiction, trauma, co-occurring disorders, anger management, domestic violence, women's treatment, dementia-related behaviors, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Somatic Experiencing and SensoriMotor Therapy.
In-Person, Video / Virtual and Phone Sessions are available for individual, couples and family therapy. Feeling worried, anxious, sad, angry or frustrated? Having relationship and communication issues? I am a LMFT and a Registered Addiction Specialist. Areas of treatment include substance / alcohol /pill abuse, behavioral addictions (sex/porn, love/relationship, exercise, eating disorders, Internet, gambling, shopping, work, etc.), relationship / communication issues (marital, family and teen), stress, grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse (sexual, emotional, spiritual or financial), dementia and Alzheimer's. Call today!
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Addictions Treatment Counselor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, certified in addiction, trauma, co-occurring disorders, anger management, domestic violence, women's treatment, dementia-related behaviors, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Somatic Experiencing and SensoriMotor Therapy.
In-Person, Video / Virtual and Phone Sessions are available for individual, couples and family therapy. Feeling worried, anxious, sad, angry or frustrated? Having relationship and communication issues? I am a LMFT and a Registered Addiction Specialist. Areas of treatment include substance / alcohol /pill abuse, behavioral addictions (sex/porn, love/relationship, exercise, eating disorders, Internet, gambling, shopping, work, etc.), relationship / communication issues (marital, family and teen), stress, grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse (sexual, emotional, spiritual or financial), dementia and Alzheimer's. Call today!
(925) 212-1018 View (925) 212-1018
Photo of Alicia A Parker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Alicia A Parker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Concord, CA 94518
Waitlist for new clients
It may seem like we are alone in our journey. We are all waging a personal invisible fight that we share with few people. Individual therapy is a way to help you make sense of your experience, and gain emotional support to push through difficult times. Beginning therapy is an opportunity to start offering yourself more compassion and grace. I’ve spent over 10 years supporting adults and families in crisis. I work with adults and adolescents struggling with grief, anxiety, addiction, depression, panic, and phobias.
It may seem like we are alone in our journey. We are all waging a personal invisible fight that we share with few people. Individual therapy is a way to help you make sense of your experience, and gain emotional support to push through difficult times. Beginning therapy is an opportunity to start offering yourself more compassion and grace. I’ve spent over 10 years supporting adults and families in crisis. I work with adults and adolescents struggling with grief, anxiety, addiction, depression, panic, and phobias.
(925) 350-6001 View (925) 350-6001
Photo of Jennifer Drown, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Jennifer Drown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Martinez, CA 94553
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist(LMFT) with over 10 years of experience working as a therapist, clinical supervisor, and assistant director of a treatment facility for individuals suffering from mental health and substance use disorders. As a LMFT, my goal is to help individuals improve their mental health, address relationship difficulties, and adjust to challenging life changes. I work with clients from a client-centered approach, utilizing a combination of solution-focused therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I enjoy working with individuals to improve their overall mental health.
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist(LMFT) with over 10 years of experience working as a therapist, clinical supervisor, and assistant director of a treatment facility for individuals suffering from mental health and substance use disorders. As a LMFT, my goal is to help individuals improve their mental health, address relationship difficulties, and adjust to challenging life changes. I work with clients from a client-centered approach, utilizing a combination of solution-focused therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I enjoy working with individuals to improve their overall mental health.
(925) 574-8861 View (925) 574-8861
Photo of Thomas Cagle, Marriage & Family Therapist in Walnut Creek, CA
Thomas Cagle
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Concord, CA 94519
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in the State of California. I have over 24 years of experience working with clients with various issues, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, substance abuse, anxiety, bereavement/grief, and relationship issues. I've also helped many individuals who have experienced emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, as well as those who are experiencing divorce and family custody issues.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in the State of California. I have over 24 years of experience working with clients with various issues, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, substance abuse, anxiety, bereavement/grief, and relationship issues. I've also helped many individuals who have experienced emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, as well as those who are experiencing divorce and family custody issues.
(661) 463-7857 View (661) 463-7857

See more therapy options for Walnut Creek

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.