Photo of Olivia Rose Lapointe, Professional Counselor Associate in Avon, CT
Olivia Rose Lapointe
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPCA
Verified Verified
Avon, CT 06001  (Online Only)
Her clinical experience includes work with a variety of populations with particular focus on substance use and mood disorders, couples and family counseling and trauma-focused therapy.
Have you been struggling with difficult life changes? Change can be daunting and mark the end of certain paths, but endings are also new beginnings. Those new beginnings are ours to build into something better. Your voice, experiences, and feelings are valid and deserve to be heard. You're the expert on your own life. As therapists, we are here to guide you through the journey and help you take back your peace. Olivia is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate. She completed her undergraduate and graduate studies at Southern New Hampshire University, earning a BA in Human Services and an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
Her clinical experience includes work with a variety of populations with particular focus on substance use and mood disorders, couples and family counseling and trauma-focused therapy.
Have you been struggling with difficult life changes? Change can be daunting and mark the end of certain paths, but endings are also new beginnings. Those new beginnings are ours to build into something better. Your voice, experiences, and feelings are valid and deserve to be heard. You're the expert on your own life. As therapists, we are here to guide you through the journey and help you take back your peace. Olivia is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate. She completed her undergraduate and graduate studies at Southern New Hampshire University, earning a BA in Human Services and an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
(860) 957-9845 x3 View (860) 957-9845 x3
Photo of Vivian Mercado, Marriage & Family Therapist in Avon, CT
Vivian Mercado
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Avon, CT 06001
Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I use an integrative therapeutic approach to help clients achieve their goals. I am bilingual, fluent in English and Spanish. I believe in providing a safe, supportive, and positive space to help clients reach their full potential.
Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I use an integrative therapeutic approach to help clients achieve their goals. I am bilingual, fluent in English and Spanish. I believe in providing a safe, supportive, and positive space to help clients reach their full potential.
(475) 800-8782 View (475) 800-8782

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Wethersfield Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avon, CT
Wethersfield Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newington, CT 06111
As an LCSW, I am dedicated to helping adolescents, adults, couples and families to cope with daily challenges and transitions. I strive to help create a greater sense of overall peace, hope and self-awareness. It is my honor to be able to work with clients who are brave enough to show me into their world, so that I can help create and support better coping. I specialize in addressing complex trauma, anxiety and panic, depression, OCD, reactivity, addiction, problem sexual behaviors, and other life transitions. I also have a personal interest in working with the donor-conceived population, not parent expected and adoptees.
As an LCSW, I am dedicated to helping adolescents, adults, couples and families to cope with daily challenges and transitions. I strive to help create a greater sense of overall peace, hope and self-awareness. It is my honor to be able to work with clients who are brave enough to show me into their world, so that I can help create and support better coping. I specialize in addressing complex trauma, anxiety and panic, depression, OCD, reactivity, addiction, problem sexual behaviors, and other life transitions. I also have a personal interest in working with the donor-conceived population, not parent expected and adoptees.
(203) 769-9611 View (203) 769-9611
Photo of Tameko Penny, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avon, CT
Tameko Penny
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hartford, CT 06105  (Online Only)
Some of the issues addressed in treatment may include depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, work stress, self-harm, or limited parenting skills.
Many individuals who may benefit from therapy are feeling emotionally distressed. This could be the result of problems within their relationships, job, academic setting, or due to general life stressors. Yet, many of these individuals are also reluctant to seek treatment due to the various misconceptions about therapy. This is of particular importance to my treatment approach, as I strive to meet each client's distinct needs with the understanding that this endeavor may not have been an easy one.
Some of the issues addressed in treatment may include depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, work stress, self-harm, or limited parenting skills.
Many individuals who may benefit from therapy are feeling emotionally distressed. This could be the result of problems within their relationships, job, academic setting, or due to general life stressors. Yet, many of these individuals are also reluctant to seek treatment due to the various misconceptions about therapy. This is of particular importance to my treatment approach, as I strive to meet each client's distinct needs with the understanding that this endeavor may not have been an easy one.
(860) 650-1773 View (860) 650-1773
Photo of Brittney LaBonte, LPC Intern in Avon, CT
Brittney LaBonte
LPC Intern, LPCA, YT, Reiki M
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06107
Brittney specializes in couples therapy, addiction recovery, women's issues, and positive lifestyle changes.
Get to know Brittney LaBonte LPC Brittney is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate with a Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Colorado Christian University. Brittney has a 10-year certified background in alternative healing techniques such as spiritual healing, yoga, reiki, meditation, and mindfulness. She brings a positive and nurturing approach to her counseling style allowing clients to feel safe and explore their struggles. Brittney guides her clients to identify their worth, cultivate resiliency, develop emotional regulation and practice mindfulness.
Brittney specializes in couples therapy, addiction recovery, women's issues, and positive lifestyle changes.
Get to know Brittney LaBonte LPC Brittney is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate with a Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Colorado Christian University. Brittney has a 10-year certified background in alternative healing techniques such as spiritual healing, yoga, reiki, meditation, and mindfulness. She brings a positive and nurturing approach to her counseling style allowing clients to feel safe and explore their struggles. Brittney guides her clients to identify their worth, cultivate resiliency, develop emotional regulation and practice mindfulness.
(860) 864-5832 View (860) 864-5832
Photo of Ellie Mental Health in Avon, CT
Ellie Mental Health
LCSW, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06107
In addition to the modalities described above, we treat conditions such as anger management, self-esteem concerns, stress & burnout, loss & bereavement, divorce, peri-partum & postpartum psychiatric issues, self-harm & suicidal thoughts, substance abuse & behavioral addictions, panic disorder & social anxiety, OCD, ADHD, ODD, PTSD, depression, Bipolar Disorders, anxiety disorders, and specific phobias.
Ellie Mental Health in West Hartford, Connecticut isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfortable, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs. Our lovely and amazing therapists see clients ages 3-end of life, and work with individuals, couples, and families.
In addition to the modalities described above, we treat conditions such as anger management, self-esteem concerns, stress & burnout, loss & bereavement, divorce, peri-partum & postpartum psychiatric issues, self-harm & suicidal thoughts, substance abuse & behavioral addictions, panic disorder & social anxiety, OCD, ADHD, ODD, PTSD, depression, Bipolar Disorders, anxiety disorders, and specific phobias.
Ellie Mental Health in West Hartford, Connecticut isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfortable, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs. Our lovely and amazing therapists see clients ages 3-end of life, and work with individuals, couples, and families.
(860) 775-6142 View (860) 775-6142
Photo of Hop Brook Counseling Center, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Avon, CT
Hop Brook Counseling Center, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Southington, CT 06489
Our providers have a wide variety of specialties, including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADD/ADHD, substance use, infertility and autism spectrum disorders.
Taking the first step towards improving your mental health can be challenging, but finding the right provider doesn't need to be. At Hop Brook Counseling Center our providers are passionate about empowering you to learn strategies for growth and healing. Our team of fully licensed mental health professionals has a wide array of specialties and backgrounds, and we always work to match you with the therapist most equipped to support your personal goals. Hop Brook provides a supportive, safe, non judgmental environment with both in person and telehealth options for counseling and medication visits.
Our providers have a wide variety of specialties, including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADD/ADHD, substance use, infertility and autism spectrum disorders.
Taking the first step towards improving your mental health can be challenging, but finding the right provider doesn't need to be. At Hop Brook Counseling Center our providers are passionate about empowering you to learn strategies for growth and healing. Our team of fully licensed mental health professionals has a wide array of specialties and backgrounds, and we always work to match you with the therapist most equipped to support your personal goals. Hop Brook provides a supportive, safe, non judgmental environment with both in person and telehealth options for counseling and medication visits.
(203) 601-7798 View (203) 601-7798
Photo of Meaghan M Gorman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Avon, CT
Meaghan M Gorman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Farmington, CT 06032  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with couples, adolescents, divorce, blended - family, adaption, trauma, addiction and parenting.
Do you feel constrained in a relationship where you struggle to be heard? Or feel ‘stuck’ in the same old patterns? Do you ever feel like you are not living the life that is authentically meant for you? Do you find yourself overwhelmed with anger, worry, fear, or feelings of inadequacy or self-blame? Addressing these questions and concerns in a therapeutic context can open up room to repair relationships with oneself and with significant others. As a partner in facilitating change, I will work with you and/or your loved-ones to creatively and collaboratively discover new solutions that can help you move beyond emotional and relational stumbling blocks. Having worked in the field of mental- health for many years, I have shared in helping many clients find their way through to wellness from places of high-risk, grief/loss, trauma and conflict in their families. Drawing from a variety of therapeutic modalities, I work with adults, teens, couples and parents/families to help develop and utilize new coping skills that are rooted in your yet- discovered strengths. I am here to listen. Change is possible.
I specialize in working with couples, adolescents, divorce, blended - family, adaption, trauma, addiction and parenting.
Do you feel constrained in a relationship where you struggle to be heard? Or feel ‘stuck’ in the same old patterns? Do you ever feel like you are not living the life that is authentically meant for you? Do you find yourself overwhelmed with anger, worry, fear, or feelings of inadequacy or self-blame? Addressing these questions and concerns in a therapeutic context can open up room to repair relationships with oneself and with significant others. As a partner in facilitating change, I will work with you and/or your loved-ones to creatively and collaboratively discover new solutions that can help you move beyond emotional and relational stumbling blocks. Having worked in the field of mental- health for many years, I have shared in helping many clients find their way through to wellness from places of high-risk, grief/loss, trauma and conflict in their families. Drawing from a variety of therapeutic modalities, I work with adults, teens, couples and parents/families to help develop and utilize new coping skills that are rooted in your yet- discovered strengths. I am here to listen. Change is possible.
(860) 324-6681 View (860) 324-6681
Photo of Maliha Malik, Marriage & Family Therapist in Avon, CT
Maliha Malik
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Hartford, CT 06105  (Online Only)
I work with Individuals, Couples and Families who can sometimes feel "stuck" not heard or unhappy. I believe that my clients are the experts and my goal is to guide them in understanding the "why," "how," and "what's next." I believe that even in our darkest times we all have strengths that can help us achieve the goals we want within our relationships with ourselves and the others in our life and my role in the therapeutic process is to guide you towards those strengths so together we can bring back into light they deserve. I like to go at my client(s) pace so to not push or create unattainable expectations.
I work with Individuals, Couples and Families who can sometimes feel "stuck" not heard or unhappy. I believe that my clients are the experts and my goal is to guide them in understanding the "why," "how," and "what's next." I believe that even in our darkest times we all have strengths that can help us achieve the goals we want within our relationships with ourselves and the others in our life and my role in the therapeutic process is to guide you towards those strengths so together we can bring back into light they deserve. I like to go at my client(s) pace so to not push or create unattainable expectations.
(301) 889-8958 View (301) 889-8958
Photo of The Enlightenment Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Avon, CT
The Enlightenment Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06107
Hello! Thanks for taking time to read our profile. The fact that you are here, already says a lot. You are aware that you are not living the life that you know you can have. As integrative psychotherapists, we address, mind, body and spirit. No matter what your facing in life, we are sure that we can help. We focus on the whole being, not just one part of you. Ulitimately the answers are within and it is our goal to help you clear your blocks, and to re- awaken the flame that has been shut off by pain and trauma.
Hello! Thanks for taking time to read our profile. The fact that you are here, already says a lot. You are aware that you are not living the life that you know you can have. As integrative psychotherapists, we address, mind, body and spirit. No matter what your facing in life, we are sure that we can help. We focus on the whole being, not just one part of you. Ulitimately the answers are within and it is our goal to help you clear your blocks, and to re- awaken the flame that has been shut off by pain and trauma.
(860) 879-0487 View (860) 879-0487
Photo of Guiding Minds, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avon, CT
Guiding Minds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Simsbury, CT 06070
Accepting Self pay or Medicaid/ Husky insurance ASAP! Therapy that fits YOUR schedule. Flexible scheduling, short notice and weekend availability. Therapy can be the place to look at the things that are not working and build on the things that are working. I offer a safe and secure environment where you can feel comfortable expressing yourself. You deserve to be your happy self, let's get you back there!
Accepting Self pay or Medicaid/ Husky insurance ASAP! Therapy that fits YOUR schedule. Flexible scheduling, short notice and weekend availability. Therapy can be the place to look at the things that are not working and build on the things that are working. I offer a safe and secure environment where you can feel comfortable expressing yourself. You deserve to be your happy self, let's get you back there!
(203) 439-3555 View (203) 439-3555
Photo of Kiefer Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avon, CT
Kiefer Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bristol, CT 06010
At Kiefer Counseling we are a team of fully licensed advanced practice mental health nurse practitioners and therapists who have a wealth of experience treating children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. You will find our team to not only be highly trained, but warm and down to earth. We focus our treatment on what works. Our team offers years of experience in helping patients of varying ages manage complex mental health conditions, conquer unhealthy behaviors, and lead rewarding lives. Our vision is to create lasting healing that stretches throughout our community. We are a passionate, fun, and dynamic team who values
At Kiefer Counseling we are a team of fully licensed advanced practice mental health nurse practitioners and therapists who have a wealth of experience treating children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. You will find our team to not only be highly trained, but warm and down to earth. We focus our treatment on what works. Our team offers years of experience in helping patients of varying ages manage complex mental health conditions, conquer unhealthy behaviors, and lead rewarding lives. Our vision is to create lasting healing that stretches throughout our community. We are a passionate, fun, and dynamic team who values
(860) 590-9962 View (860) 590-9962
Photo of Well Life Therapy, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Avon, CT
Well Life Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New Britain, CT 06050
Are you or a loved one feeling afraid, anxious and/or overwhelmed? Are you trying to get through a challenging time or perhaps you have felt this way for a long time and just don't know why? Are you in a difficult relationship or having a family crisis? The counselors at Well Life Therapy, LLC are here to listen, guide and empower you to move through what you are struggling with. We will help you create strategies for healthy coping, problem solve with you, assist with communication skills and uncover ineffective and negative thinking patterns and ideas.
Are you or a loved one feeling afraid, anxious and/or overwhelmed? Are you trying to get through a challenging time or perhaps you have felt this way for a long time and just don't know why? Are you in a difficult relationship or having a family crisis? The counselors at Well Life Therapy, LLC are here to listen, guide and empower you to move through what you are struggling with. We will help you create strategies for healthy coping, problem solve with you, assist with communication skills and uncover ineffective and negative thinking patterns and ideas.
(860) 615-4014 View (860) 615-4014
Photo of Tides of Mind Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Avon, CT
Tides of Mind Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06105
Tides of Mind Counseling is among Connecticut's top counseling centers dedicated to providing excellence in mental healthcare. Our offices are located throughout CT where our licensed professionals work extensively with you to manage life's challenges, promote healthy relationships and encourage inner healing. Tides of Mind is unlike the common "counseling clinic" in that we offer creative & holistic therapeutic techniques in an office that is private, relaxing and has a spa-like feel. Our therapists provide a holistic approach to treatment and ensure that you feel supported and empowered throughout all aspects of life.
Tides of Mind Counseling is among Connecticut's top counseling centers dedicated to providing excellence in mental healthcare. Our offices are located throughout CT where our licensed professionals work extensively with you to manage life's challenges, promote healthy relationships and encourage inner healing. Tides of Mind is unlike the common "counseling clinic" in that we offer creative & holistic therapeutic techniques in an office that is private, relaxing and has a spa-like feel. Our therapists provide a holistic approach to treatment and ensure that you feel supported and empowered throughout all aspects of life.
(860) 764-2972 View (860) 764-2972
Photo of Janna Phillips, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avon, CT
Janna Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Hartford, CT 06105
Not accepting new clients
I am a strength-based and collaborative therapist who utilizes systems theory, narrative therapy, social justice and trauma focused models. I also provide EMDR for clients both as individuals and within couples work. I believe that clients are the experts in their own lives. I believe every client has the right and ability to author their own story. I am passionate about working with those suffering from trauma (including as the result of experiencing oppression), grief and loss, life changes, family conflict, anxiety and depression as well as any problem getting in the way of connection with others and self.
I am a strength-based and collaborative therapist who utilizes systems theory, narrative therapy, social justice and trauma focused models. I also provide EMDR for clients both as individuals and within couples work. I believe that clients are the experts in their own lives. I believe every client has the right and ability to author their own story. I am passionate about working with those suffering from trauma (including as the result of experiencing oppression), grief and loss, life changes, family conflict, anxiety and depression as well as any problem getting in the way of connection with others and self.
(860) 831-3492 View (860) 831-3492
Photo of Meagan Mullen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Avon, CT
Meagan Mullen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06107  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! In my practice, I work with adults and couples struggling with anxiety, parenthood transitions, eating disorders/body image issues, depression, or stressful life changes. I have extensive experience working with people struggling with self-esteem/perfectionism, and who are constantly battling the voice in their head that says they’re “not good enough." Through my warm and personable approach, I’ll help you understand your emotions and develop new coping skills to face life’s obstacles.
Welcome! In my practice, I work with adults and couples struggling with anxiety, parenthood transitions, eating disorders/body image issues, depression, or stressful life changes. I have extensive experience working with people struggling with self-esteem/perfectionism, and who are constantly battling the voice in their head that says they’re “not good enough." Through my warm and personable approach, I’ll help you understand your emotions and develop new coping skills to face life’s obstacles.
(860) 321-8614 View (860) 321-8614

Online Therapists

Photo of Jennifer Mayette, Marriage & Family Therapist in Avon, CT
Jennifer Mayette
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ridgefield, CT 06877
In addition, I am able to assist individuals, families and couples who have gone through addiction, infidelity, relationship ruptures, and divorce.
Beginning the process of therapy is a brave choice. I hope to offer you a space filled with compassion, curiosity and clarity. I am licensed marriage and family therapy and I provide individual, couples and family therapy. My specialization is with family conflict and transitions, disagreements on parenting styles, single parent stressors, co-parenting conflict, divorce and remarriage stressors, blended family support, empty nesters and caregiver stress. I navigate couples who experience conflict over decisions, feel misunderstood or unloved, engage in heated fights, and have intimacy and sexuality concerns.
In addition, I am able to assist individuals, families and couples who have gone through addiction, infidelity, relationship ruptures, and divorce.
Beginning the process of therapy is a brave choice. I hope to offer you a space filled with compassion, curiosity and clarity. I am licensed marriage and family therapy and I provide individual, couples and family therapy. My specialization is with family conflict and transitions, disagreements on parenting styles, single parent stressors, co-parenting conflict, divorce and remarriage stressors, blended family support, empty nesters and caregiver stress. I navigate couples who experience conflict over decisions, feel misunderstood or unloved, engage in heated fights, and have intimacy and sexuality concerns.
(203) 417-0841 View (203) 417-0841
Photo of Victoria Lynn Massey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Avon, CT
Victoria Lynn Massey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monroe, CT 06468
My specialties include young adults and adults treating anxiety, self-esteem, perinatal and postpartum issues, couples conflict, trauma, life transitions, body image, eating disorders, and substance abuse/recovery.
Each person has the power to change, and I will collaborate with you to discover the solutions to the challenges you are facing. I provide a warm, nurturing environment and tailor the therapeutic process to help you overcome obstacles standing in your way. You deserve to achieve fulfillment and experience joy in your life and it’s a privilege to take this journey with you. Please reach out via email or phone to schedule an initial phone consultation.
My specialties include young adults and adults treating anxiety, self-esteem, perinatal and postpartum issues, couples conflict, trauma, life transitions, body image, eating disorders, and substance abuse/recovery.
Each person has the power to change, and I will collaborate with you to discover the solutions to the challenges you are facing. I provide a warm, nurturing environment and tailor the therapeutic process to help you overcome obstacles standing in your way. You deserve to achieve fulfillment and experience joy in your life and it’s a privilege to take this journey with you. Please reach out via email or phone to schedule an initial phone consultation.
(860) 301-6977 View (860) 301-6977
Photo of Greenwoods Counseling Referrals, Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Avon, CT
Greenwoods Counseling Referrals, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Litchfield, CT 06759
We provide the following services; assessments and therapy referrals, ongoing therapy, medication management, counseling at our partner schools, addiction outreach.
Greenwoods provides access to treatment for people struggling with a wide range of mental health challenges. Following an intake session, clients are matched with a therapist within our network of providers or with one of our in-house therapists, whoever best fits the client's needs. Financial aid is available for qualifying clients.
We provide the following services; assessments and therapy referrals, ongoing therapy, medication management, counseling at our partner schools, addiction outreach.
Greenwoods provides access to treatment for people struggling with a wide range of mental health challenges. Following an intake session, clients are matched with a therapist within our network of providers or with one of our in-house therapists, whoever best fits the client's needs. Financial aid is available for qualifying clients.
(860) 590-8583 View (860) 590-8583
Photo of MGR Wellness Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Avon, CT
MGR Wellness Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Watertown, CT 06795
MGR Wellness is comprised of two Licensed Professional Counselors, George Rehkamp and Marisa Mastrianno. We offer individual, family and couples counseling sessions for all ages. We provide support for those coping with anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use and relational issues. In an effort to better serve our clients in addition to face to face counseling we also offer Telehealth services. Please contact us if you have questions regarding counseling services or would like to set up an appointment.
MGR Wellness is comprised of two Licensed Professional Counselors, George Rehkamp and Marisa Mastrianno. We offer individual, family and couples counseling sessions for all ages. We provide support for those coping with anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use and relational issues. In an effort to better serve our clients in addition to face to face counseling we also offer Telehealth services. Please contact us if you have questions regarding counseling services or would like to set up an appointment.
(959) 210-5619 View (959) 210-5619
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.