Photo of Cesar Arevalo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Cesar Arevalo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC-II
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
I specialize in treating adults with issues of anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction by utilizing a variety of evidenced based modalities.
No one is immune to life’s difficulties. Life can be unpredictable, complex and challenging at times. We can feel stuck, becoming overwhelmed by fearful negative thoughts and overcome by intense emotions. I am here to help. My goal as a therapist is to offer guidance and support to individuals as they navigate through difficult issues, painful life events and learn to achieve personal growth. My professional training, clinical knowledge, and years of on-the-field experience help me to provide individuals with the tools to have a better quality of life.
I specialize in treating adults with issues of anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction by utilizing a variety of evidenced based modalities.
No one is immune to life’s difficulties. Life can be unpredictable, complex and challenging at times. We can feel stuck, becoming overwhelmed by fearful negative thoughts and overcome by intense emotions. I am here to help. My goal as a therapist is to offer guidance and support to individuals as they navigate through difficult issues, painful life events and learn to achieve personal growth. My professional training, clinical knowledge, and years of on-the-field experience help me to provide individuals with the tools to have a better quality of life.
(562) 685-9180 View (562) 685-9180
Photo of Sirona Behavioral Health, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Sirona Behavioral Health
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92673
Every person searching for freedom from the devastating effects of substance addiction deserves a tailored strategy for treatment-a personal pathway toward hope.
Making the decision to get free from your addiction is the most important one you will ever make. It empowers you to have control over your life and avoid a downward spiral of chaos. Sirona Behavioral Health is committed to the safety, comfort, and success of every resident that comes to us seeking treatment. We provide clients with all of the resources they need to sustain a life without drugs and alcohol, and provide the tools to help them learn how to enjoy life again. We work closely with every resident to ensure the best care for each individual.
Every person searching for freedom from the devastating effects of substance addiction deserves a tailored strategy for treatment-a personal pathway toward hope.
Making the decision to get free from your addiction is the most important one you will ever make. It empowers you to have control over your life and avoid a downward spiral of chaos. Sirona Behavioral Health is committed to the safety, comfort, and success of every resident that comes to us seeking treatment. We provide clients with all of the resources they need to sustain a life without drugs and alcohol, and provide the tools to help them learn how to enjoy life again. We work closely with every resident to ensure the best care for each individual.
(844) 294-8008 View (844) 294-8008
Photo of Chad K Cox, Psychologist in California
Chad K Cox
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92119  (Online Only)
I have expertise in helping individuals, friends and families of those struggling with alcohol or substance use disorders.
Dr. Cox has a experience providing assistance to high performing professionals such as lawyers, doctors, executives, business owners and even other counselors. Courage is needed when facing a personal problem. My mission is to provide compassionate and professional assistance to those struggling with emotional, behavioral or relational problems. I work to provide a safe and supportive environment, free of judgement, where sensitive issues can be explored. You can get help for mood difficulties, drug/alcohol problems or relational concerns. To start, we can have a free consultation to discuss your goals for self-improvement.
I have expertise in helping individuals, friends and families of those struggling with alcohol or substance use disorders.
Dr. Cox has a experience providing assistance to high performing professionals such as lawyers, doctors, executives, business owners and even other counselors. Courage is needed when facing a personal problem. My mission is to provide compassionate and professional assistance to those struggling with emotional, behavioral or relational problems. I work to provide a safe and supportive environment, free of judgement, where sensitive issues can be explored. You can get help for mood difficulties, drug/alcohol problems or relational concerns. To start, we can have a free consultation to discuss your goals for self-improvement.
(619) 458-3380 View (619) 458-3380
Photo of Peter C Meisner, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Peter C Meisner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Agoura Hills, CA 91301
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who works predominantly with adults and couples struggling in various life issues. I work with relationship issues, loss, grief, addiction, trauma and emotional pain. I help by using a collaborative approach between the client and therapist: working to develop the skills needed to manage and reduce symptoms, developing insight about the manifestation of symptoms and to help you get control over your life again.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who works predominantly with adults and couples struggling in various life issues. I work with relationship issues, loss, grief, addiction, trauma and emotional pain. I help by using a collaborative approach between the client and therapist: working to develop the skills needed to manage and reduce symptoms, developing insight about the manifestation of symptoms and to help you get control over your life again.
(747) 227-7380 View (747) 227-7380
Photo of Hazzel Angulo, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in California
Hazzel Angulo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92606
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.
(949) 596-7276 View (949) 596-7276
Photo of Alexander Bacher, Psychologist in California
Alexander Bacher
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066
Although addiction and dual-diagnosis are my areas of specialty, I work with clients struggling with any form of mental illness and suffering in life. By working with individuals, couples, and families, I help to relieve suffering and position clients to thrive in ways they never before imagined possible, such as actualizing full potential and dreams in careers, relationships, and life. With every client, my goal is to help both the client and their family achieve health and wellbeing, while living a life full of meaning, purpose, and passion.
Although addiction and dual-diagnosis are my areas of specialty, I work with clients struggling with any form of mental illness and suffering in life. By working with individuals, couples, and families, I help to relieve suffering and position clients to thrive in ways they never before imagined possible, such as actualizing full potential and dreams in careers, relationships, and life. With every client, my goal is to help both the client and their family achieve health and wellbeing, while living a life full of meaning, purpose, and passion.
(310) 361-2402 View (310) 361-2402
Photo of Taylor 'tara' Donlan, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Taylor 'tara' Donlan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91505
I have extensive experience in working with adults struggling with depression; grief and loss; anxiety; relationship conflict/divorce; loneliness; low self esteem; mid-life crises; addiction; creative blocks; fear of change/life transitions and aging issues, with a focus on supporting “dynamic” aging.
Deeply committed to personal growth myself, I know how hard it can be sometimes, how trapped we can feel when we find ourselves repeating painful patterns, unable to learn and grow from our life experiences or make the changes we need... That’s why I will provide you with a safe and supportive environment, a compassionate atmosphere free of judgment and shame as we explore and sort through what has brought you to this challenging turning point in your life… Everything you need to create a meaningful, fulfilling life is within you.
I have extensive experience in working with adults struggling with depression; grief and loss; anxiety; relationship conflict/divorce; loneliness; low self esteem; mid-life crises; addiction; creative blocks; fear of change/life transitions and aging issues, with a focus on supporting “dynamic” aging.
Deeply committed to personal growth myself, I know how hard it can be sometimes, how trapped we can feel when we find ourselves repeating painful patterns, unable to learn and grow from our life experiences or make the changes we need... That’s why I will provide you with a safe and supportive environment, a compassionate atmosphere free of judgment and shame as we explore and sort through what has brought you to this challenging turning point in your life… Everything you need to create a meaningful, fulfilling life is within you.
(323) 992-0268 View (323) 992-0268
Photo of Michelle Watson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Michelle Watson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308
My name is Michelle Watson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I specialize in the treatment of addiction and help people recover from depression, anxiety, co-dependency, trauma, and dysfunctional behavior that results from trauma. I especially enjoy working with Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACA) and dysfunctional families. I take a strength-based and client-centered approach to therapy with a focus on skill-building. I'm trained in motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and cognitive processing therapy.
My name is Michelle Watson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I specialize in the treatment of addiction and help people recover from depression, anxiety, co-dependency, trauma, and dysfunctional behavior that results from trauma. I especially enjoy working with Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACA) and dysfunctional families. I take a strength-based and client-centered approach to therapy with a focus on skill-building. I'm trained in motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and cognitive processing therapy.
(661) 410-7476 View (661) 410-7476
Photo of Anne Marie Perkins, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Anne Marie Perkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
I use an eclectic approach that provides results fast, CBT or EMDR for anxiety and trauma, Seeking Safety for substance abuse anxiety and depression, art therapy with children or anyone who struggles to find words to express their emotions.
As I walked though many personal difficult experieces in my life, I learned what I wanted from a good therapist. I have dedicated the last 10 years to becoming such a therapist for people who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma and tragic loss or overwhelming stress.
I use an eclectic approach that provides results fast, CBT or EMDR for anxiety and trauma, Seeking Safety for substance abuse anxiety and depression, art therapy with children or anyone who struggles to find words to express their emotions.
As I walked though many personal difficult experieces in my life, I learned what I wanted from a good therapist. I have dedicated the last 10 years to becoming such a therapist for people who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma and tragic loss or overwhelming stress.
(619) 369-1661 View (619) 369-1661
Photo of Ipek Aykol, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Ipek Aykol
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I specialize in treating trauma (PTSD), mood disorders, drug and alcohol addiction relationship issues, family issues, life-transition problems in addition to supporting the loved ones of individuals struggling with addiction.
Are you waking up every day and realizing that your life is not where you want it to be? Are you feeling stuck in certain areas of your life and not able to find a solution? I am able to help you by providing you a safe environment where you can express yourself without feeling judged or criticized.  I have been helping people find peace, calm, and hope in their lives. 
I specialize in treating trauma (PTSD), mood disorders, drug and alcohol addiction relationship issues, family issues, life-transition problems in addition to supporting the loved ones of individuals struggling with addiction.
Are you waking up every day and realizing that your life is not where you want it to be? Are you feeling stuck in certain areas of your life and not able to find a solution? I am able to help you by providing you a safe environment where you can express yourself without feeling judged or criticized.  I have been helping people find peace, calm, and hope in their lives. 
(562) 275-3206 View (562) 275-3206
Photo of Anthony Moore, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Anthony Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95153  (Online Only)
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I warmly welcome clients from diverse backgrounds, including those who've faced homelessness, incarceration, and trauma. My expertise enables me to compassionately assist individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, substance use, and adjusting to change or loss. I provide a secure and accepting space for those feeling stuck, guiding them towards positive steps in their lives. My non-judgmental approach fosters a therapeutic environment where all clients find support and healing. Together, we navigate life's challenges, promoting growth and resilience.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I warmly welcome clients from diverse backgrounds, including those who've faced homelessness, incarceration, and trauma. My expertise enables me to compassionately assist individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, substance use, and adjusting to change or loss. I provide a secure and accepting space for those feeling stuck, guiding them towards positive steps in their lives. My non-judgmental approach fosters a therapeutic environment where all clients find support and healing. Together, we navigate life's challenges, promoting growth and resilience.
(408) 868-5053 View (408) 868-5053
Photo of Erick Santos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Erick Santos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I specialize in trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, addiction, and relational and will use trauma focused CBT, SFT and EMDR therapy to help.
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences that leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
I specialize in trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, addiction, and relational and will use trauma focused CBT, SFT and EMDR therapy to help.
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences that leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
(714) 735-0357 View (714) 735-0357
Photo of Tiffany Goodsite, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Tiffany Goodsite
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
Tiffany Goodsite-Kelii is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and her goal is to guide you through life’s most complex and difficult matters. She specializes in the treatment of anxiety disorders and addiction and has a history of work with other co-occurring issues including but not limited to depression, post-traumatic stress/trauma, postpartum depression/anxiety, grief/loss, anger and impulsivity, and stress management.
Tiffany Goodsite-Kelii is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and her goal is to guide you through life’s most complex and difficult matters. She specializes in the treatment of anxiety disorders and addiction and has a history of work with other co-occurring issues including but not limited to depression, post-traumatic stress/trauma, postpartum depression/anxiety, grief/loss, anger and impulsivity, and stress management.
(619) 304-4369 View (619) 304-4369
Photo of Agape Counseling Center, Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Agape Counseling Center, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92116
I have over 25 years of experience working in mental health, substance abuse, and child welfare.
We all struggle with managing our lives during these difficult times. I am committed to providing the tools to increase and maintain functioning. Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, addiction? Is there unresolved trauma, grief, or a sense of not belonging? Do you need an empathetic ear to verbalize your feelings, thoughts, and emotions?
I have over 25 years of experience working in mental health, substance abuse, and child welfare.
We all struggle with managing our lives during these difficult times. I am committed to providing the tools to increase and maintain functioning. Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, addiction? Is there unresolved trauma, grief, or a sense of not belonging? Do you need an empathetic ear to verbalize your feelings, thoughts, and emotions?
(619) 367-0918 View (619) 367-0918
Photo of Hazzel Angulo, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in California
Hazzel Angulo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
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) 279-5351 View (213) 279-5351
Photo of Audrey S Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Audrey S Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, Psy, D, LMFT
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302
The interns, Doug and Austin, specialize anxiety, depression, substance abuse at a rate that is affordable for you starting at $50-80 and accept insurance soon.
The areas of expertise are: addictions, marriage therapy, child/adolescent therapy. Additionally, We treat individuals, couples, and families with anxiety, depression, anger, domestic violence, all addictions, sexual and emotional abuse/neglect, low self esteem, bullying, failing grades, being oppositional, cutting, anxiety, depression, suicide, death of a loved one, and domestic violence. Additionally, there are two Associate Marriage Family Therapy interns that graduated from Pepperdine that work here, Doug May and Austin Johnson, that see clients that need low cost therapy starting at $50-80 and will be on insurance panels soon
The interns, Doug and Austin, specialize anxiety, depression, substance abuse at a rate that is affordable for you starting at $50-80 and accept insurance soon.
The areas of expertise are: addictions, marriage therapy, child/adolescent therapy. Additionally, We treat individuals, couples, and families with anxiety, depression, anger, domestic violence, all addictions, sexual and emotional abuse/neglect, low self esteem, bullying, failing grades, being oppositional, cutting, anxiety, depression, suicide, death of a loved one, and domestic violence. Additionally, there are two Associate Marriage Family Therapy interns that graduated from Pepperdine that work here, Doug May and Austin Johnson, that see clients that need low cost therapy starting at $50-80 and will be on insurance panels soon
(818) 334-4743 View (818) 334-4743
Photo of Robert Garza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Robert Garza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Visalia, CA 93277
I have experience in the fields of mental health and substance abuse that spans services with unique populations: Hispanic families, adults, and children/adolescents in need.
I’m excited to join PATH as a Therapist. I’m a highly experienced Therapist (LCSW) with 20 years of experience. I have worked across various Behavioral Health Programs. I received my bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, and substance abuse from Stanislaus State University and my master’s degree in Social Work from California State University Stanislaus. I also received specialized substance abuse addiction while completing my master’s degree. I was also instrumental in the leadership program bringing the Substance Abuse Program to Stanislaus State University.
I have experience in the fields of mental health and substance abuse that spans services with unique populations: Hispanic families, adults, and children/adolescents in need.
I’m excited to join PATH as a Therapist. I’m a highly experienced Therapist (LCSW) with 20 years of experience. I have worked across various Behavioral Health Programs. I received my bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, and substance abuse from Stanislaus State University and my master’s degree in Social Work from California State University Stanislaus. I also received specialized substance abuse addiction while completing my master’s degree. I was also instrumental in the leadership program bringing the Substance Abuse Program to Stanislaus State University.
(559) 934-5158 View (559) 934-5158
Photo of Christine Rivlin, Pre-Licensed Professional in California
Christine Rivlin
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCC
Verified Verified
Campbell, CA 95008
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.
(669) 201-4356 View (669) 201-4356
Photo of Robert D. Simpson, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Robert D. Simpson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
North Tustin, CA 92705
Helping individuals and family members through the process of addiction treatment and recovery is an important part of what I do clinically.
Although I see most of my clients individually, my wife, Joyce, and I often work together providing individuals and couples with the uniqueness of dual perspectives and complementary approaches. I treat co-occurring problems such as relational (communication issues), trauma, anxiety, & depression. Addiction, in all its forms, including gambling, are targets of mine. I am considered a specialist in Family Recovery/Resiliency. We work closely with practitioners in integrative medicine for pain & addiction management In addition, I have been honored as a DOD Military Family LIfe Consultant & Critical Incident Stress Responder
Helping individuals and family members through the process of addiction treatment and recovery is an important part of what I do clinically.
Although I see most of my clients individually, my wife, Joyce, and I often work together providing individuals and couples with the uniqueness of dual perspectives and complementary approaches. I treat co-occurring problems such as relational (communication issues), trauma, anxiety, & depression. Addiction, in all its forms, including gambling, are targets of mine. I am considered a specialist in Family Recovery/Resiliency. We work closely with practitioners in integrative medicine for pain & addiction management In addition, I have been honored as a DOD Military Family LIfe Consultant & Critical Incident Stress Responder
(714) 643-8021 x2 View (714) 643-8021 x2
Photo of Kristine McCarthy, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Kristine McCarthy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203
If you are struggling with addiction or substance abuse, I can help. I understand how painful addiction is, and more importantly, I know that sobriety and recovery are the best routes to a better life. Being present in your life, no matter the circumstances, is the greatest gift you can give to yourself and to the people you love. Addiction is an insidious and lonely disease, but you can get and stay sober. You can live the life you envision. Recovery calls for commitment and it requires support. You can live free of addiction, and you can live in peace.
If you are struggling with addiction or substance abuse, I can help. I understand how painful addiction is, and more importantly, I know that sobriety and recovery are the best routes to a better life. Being present in your life, no matter the circumstances, is the greatest gift you can give to yourself and to the people you love. Addiction is an insidious and lonely disease, but you can get and stay sober. You can live the life you envision. Recovery calls for commitment and it requires support. You can live free of addiction, and you can live in peace.
(818) 446-9836 View (818) 446-9836
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.