Photo of Kimberly S Benson, Counselor in Sarasota, FL
Kimberly S Benson
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, CAP, CCTP, QS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34236
Addiction and Trauma can cause debilitating and frightening symptoms and it is my goal to assist in gaining long term relief from distressing psychological thoughts and feelings.
It is my goal and priority to provide an environment that enhances growth and change within your life. I believe in assisting people in attaining resolution with their past and working towards a healthier present and future. Helping others grow through pain and attain a new healthy way of living is my personal and professional passion. I offer Individual Therapy, Family Therapy, & Couples Counseling. In addition to these treatment modalities I also provide expressive art therapy with children, adolescents and adults upon request. I facilitate Supervision for Mental Health Counselors seeking licensure in the state of Florida.
Addiction and Trauma can cause debilitating and frightening symptoms and it is my goal to assist in gaining long term relief from distressing psychological thoughts and feelings.
It is my goal and priority to provide an environment that enhances growth and change within your life. I believe in assisting people in attaining resolution with their past and working towards a healthier present and future. Helping others grow through pain and attain a new healthy way of living is my personal and professional passion. I offer Individual Therapy, Family Therapy, & Couples Counseling. In addition to these treatment modalities I also provide expressive art therapy with children, adolescents and adults upon request. I facilitate Supervision for Mental Health Counselors seeking licensure in the state of Florida.
(941) 564-9973 View (941) 564-9973
Photo of Mary Moonen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sarasota, FL
Mary Moonen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAP
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34232  (Online Only)
Many times when people call, they have concerns including: Mental Health issues, Addiction, Family, Couples,Relationships,Problems, Work Stress, Medical Conditions, Trauma, Loss, Grief, or everyday stressors. I will treat you with utmost dignity, and respect, honoring your cultural/ religious values. My creative approaches are what my clients like the best. I have used music, appropriate use of humor, and other artisitc ways to help people express themselves. As a TEAM, we will work TOGETHER to identify, set and achieve your goals, and I give you tangible strategies to reach them.
Many times when people call, they have concerns including: Mental Health issues, Addiction, Family, Couples,Relationships,Problems, Work Stress, Medical Conditions, Trauma, Loss, Grief, or everyday stressors. I will treat you with utmost dignity, and respect, honoring your cultural/ religious values. My creative approaches are what my clients like the best. I have used music, appropriate use of humor, and other artisitc ways to help people express themselves. As a TEAM, we will work TOGETHER to identify, set and achieve your goals, and I give you tangible strategies to reach them.
(941) 962-6784 View (941) 962-6784
Photo of Robin Mathews, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sarasota, FL
Robin Mathews
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34231
In working with individuals, we can work on varying things such as addiction, relationship stresses, anxiety, depression, trauma, or phase of life changes.
Are you looking to explore varying emotions? Searching for clarity or guidance? Looking for a safe place to process things out loud? Then lets chat. There is empowerment in knowledge. Once you have the knowledge and develop an understanding, you are empowered to do with it what you will. Positive or negative. Something or nothing. The chose is yours. Knowledge can offer you clarity in seeing patterns never noticed before or in changing patterns you are fully aware of yet need the tools to promote change. My goal is to empower you gain insight and understanding as well as encouraging you as you make positive change in your life.
In working with individuals, we can work on varying things such as addiction, relationship stresses, anxiety, depression, trauma, or phase of life changes.
Are you looking to explore varying emotions? Searching for clarity or guidance? Looking for a safe place to process things out loud? Then lets chat. There is empowerment in knowledge. Once you have the knowledge and develop an understanding, you are empowered to do with it what you will. Positive or negative. Something or nothing. The chose is yours. Knowledge can offer you clarity in seeing patterns never noticed before or in changing patterns you are fully aware of yet need the tools to promote change. My goal is to empower you gain insight and understanding as well as encouraging you as you make positive change in your life.
(941) 999-3342 View (941) 999-3342
Photo of Kelley Sgroi, Counselor in Sarasota, FL
Kelley Sgroi
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34230
If you are feeling stuck, unfulfilled, struggling with anxiety, depression, trying to overcome past traumas and searching for the way to live a life filled with joy, then let’s do it! Aspire for greatness and transform your life through self empowerment! When you work with me, you will be met with compassion and empathy no matter what challenges you may be facing. I specialize in complex trauma, substance abuse, eating disorders and couples therapy. For couples, I am Gottman Level 1,2 and 3 certified and certified as a Leader in the 7 Principles for Making Marriage Work. If building a stronger marriage is important, I can help.
If you are feeling stuck, unfulfilled, struggling with anxiety, depression, trying to overcome past traumas and searching for the way to live a life filled with joy, then let’s do it! Aspire for greatness and transform your life through self empowerment! When you work with me, you will be met with compassion and empathy no matter what challenges you may be facing. I specialize in complex trauma, substance abuse, eating disorders and couples therapy. For couples, I am Gottman Level 1,2 and 3 certified and certified as a Leader in the 7 Principles for Making Marriage Work. If building a stronger marriage is important, I can help.
(941) 214-7140 View (941) 214-7140
Photo of Olivia Aybar Counseling & Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sarasota, FL
Olivia Aybar Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34238
I earned my Master of Social Work from the University of Maryland in 2003 with an Individual Specialization in Mental Health and Substance Abuse.
Hello, thank you for reading my profile. Life is beautiful and we try to make the best of it, but due to stresses and unexpected factors it becomes difficult to maintain a balance between ourselves and the people surrounding us. I believe in a holistic approach to treat the human mind. I provide psychotherapy services for adolescents and adults to address depression, anxiety, addiction, self-esteem issues, concern in personal and work relationships. I have specialized training in traumatic events like sexual assault, grief and chronic illness as well as anger management, conflict resolution, life coaching and problem solving.
I earned my Master of Social Work from the University of Maryland in 2003 with an Individual Specialization in Mental Health and Substance Abuse.
Hello, thank you for reading my profile. Life is beautiful and we try to make the best of it, but due to stresses and unexpected factors it becomes difficult to maintain a balance between ourselves and the people surrounding us. I believe in a holistic approach to treat the human mind. I provide psychotherapy services for adolescents and adults to address depression, anxiety, addiction, self-esteem issues, concern in personal and work relationships. I have specialized training in traumatic events like sexual assault, grief and chronic illness as well as anger management, conflict resolution, life coaching and problem solving.
(941) 200-4664 View (941) 200-4664
Photo of Crosby Counseling Center in Sarasota, FL
Crosby Counseling Center
PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34243
I have extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings working with addiction, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, behavioral modification, anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, LGBTQIA+ issues, depression, women's issues, and couples and family counseling.
My primary goal is to provide you with relief and improvement in functioning and well-being. I will work closely with you while we help to move you to a more positive and functional situation. We will work together collaboratively to relieve your distress and establish a strong and mutually trusting therapeutic relationship. The most important part of the experience will be to instill and foster hope, to help you see positive change, and to make sure that you feel supported. You are not alone.
I have extensive experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings working with addiction, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, behavioral modification, anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, LGBTQIA+ issues, depression, women's issues, and couples and family counseling.
My primary goal is to provide you with relief and improvement in functioning and well-being. I will work closely with you while we help to move you to a more positive and functional situation. We will work together collaboratively to relieve your distress and establish a strong and mutually trusting therapeutic relationship. The most important part of the experience will be to instill and foster hope, to help you see positive change, and to make sure that you feel supported. You are not alone.
(941) 256-2785 View (941) 256-2785
Photo of Brad Eppley, Counselor in Sarasota, FL
Brad Eppley
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34238
From Life Coaching goal oriented skill development including stress and anger management to resolving major symptoms of depression, ADD, anxiety and addiction to depth oriented psychotherapy healing grief and trauma I enjoy helping.
I love helping people heal, develop and create healthier relationships. My passion is to facilitate transformational change that results in greater inner peace, healthy self love and joy in life and relationships. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor I enjoy helping clients address underlying causes to symptoms like depression and anxiety. I am certified to do Neurotransmitter testing through Neuro Science and I work Holistically with an emphasis on Integrative and Functional care that focuses on the whole Being and helping clients to function optimally beyond just symptom relief.
From Life Coaching goal oriented skill development including stress and anger management to resolving major symptoms of depression, ADD, anxiety and addiction to depth oriented psychotherapy healing grief and trauma I enjoy helping.
I love helping people heal, develop and create healthier relationships. My passion is to facilitate transformational change that results in greater inner peace, healthy self love and joy in life and relationships. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor I enjoy helping clients address underlying causes to symptoms like depression and anxiety. I am certified to do Neurotransmitter testing through Neuro Science and I work Holistically with an emphasis on Integrative and Functional care that focuses on the whole Being and helping clients to function optimally beyond just symptom relief.
(941) 203-3416 View (941) 203-3416
Photo of Shauna Bispham, Counselor in Sarasota, FL
Shauna Bispham
Counselor, MA, LMHC, QS, CCTP
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34237
I specialize in Substance Abuse, Trauma, Child, Adolescent, and Infant Mental Health.
If you want change in your life, I can help. I believe everyone has the strength and courage within themselves to find the "answers" they are seeking; therapy is the process of discovering these "answers." I want to help you find your answers and can offer non-judgmental support so that you can be a healthier, stronger you. I graduated from Argosy University, earning my Masters of Art degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am also a graduate from the University of South Florida's Bachelors of Art Program with a degree in Psychology.
I specialize in Substance Abuse, Trauma, Child, Adolescent, and Infant Mental Health.
If you want change in your life, I can help. I believe everyone has the strength and courage within themselves to find the "answers" they are seeking; therapy is the process of discovering these "answers." I want to help you find your answers and can offer non-judgmental support so that you can be a healthier, stronger you. I graduated from Argosy University, earning my Masters of Art degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am also a graduate from the University of South Florida's Bachelors of Art Program with a degree in Psychology.
(941) 548-4187 View (941) 548-4187
Photo of West Coast Behavioral Therapy, Counselor in Sarasota, FL
West Coast Behavioral Therapy
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CAP, ICADC, C-PD
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34231
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Addiction Professional with offices in Sarasota and New Port Richey. My experience involves substance abuse, mood disorders, co-occurring disorders and anxiety disorders as well as guiding people to reduce stress and living a more fulfilling way of life. I attended school in Sarasota in the 1950's and early 1960's, enlisting in the United States Marine Corps from 1966 to 1970. I was in business in Sarasota until entering the mental health field in 1999 enrolling in Argosy/Sarasota In 2001 receiving a Master's in Mental Health Counseling in 2005.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Addiction Professional with offices in Sarasota and New Port Richey. My experience involves substance abuse, mood disorders, co-occurring disorders and anxiety disorders as well as guiding people to reduce stress and living a more fulfilling way of life. I attended school in Sarasota in the 1950's and early 1960's, enlisting in the United States Marine Corps from 1966 to 1970. I was in business in Sarasota until entering the mental health field in 1999 enrolling in Argosy/Sarasota In 2001 receiving a Master's in Mental Health Counseling in 2005.
(941) 231-7880 View (941) 231-7880
Photo of Changing Phases, Counselor in Sarasota, FL
Changing Phases
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34232
For 25 years, I have practiced in the fields of severe and persistent mental health, substance use disorders and crisis intervention.
My outlook on life is that we are all on a journey. Some people move faster than others. Some need a helping hand along the way; but we can all arrive to where we are going, where we want to be…every single one of us. I am here to help motivate when you lack motivation. I am here to listen when you feel unheard. I am here to push when you feel weak, or pull when you don’t feel strong enough. I’m also here to sit with you when you aren’t ready or feel unable to make a decision. I am here at your pace.
For 25 years, I have practiced in the fields of severe and persistent mental health, substance use disorders and crisis intervention.
My outlook on life is that we are all on a journey. Some people move faster than others. Some need a helping hand along the way; but we can all arrive to where we are going, where we want to be…every single one of us. I am here to help motivate when you lack motivation. I am here to listen when you feel unheard. I am here to push when you feel weak, or pull when you don’t feel strong enough. I’m also here to sit with you when you aren’t ready or feel unable to make a decision. I am here at your pace.
(224) 218-5276 View (224) 218-5276
Photo of MindSol Wellness Center of Sarasota, Counselor in Sarasota, FL
MindSol Wellness Center of Sarasota
Counselor, LMHC, CAP, CCTP, EdD
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
We rely on modern therapeutic techniques that give clients the tools to understand and address their mental and emotional health. We offer individual and group therapy, but even in group counseling, our goal is to help each participant achieve personal insight. Sarasota’s premier therapist, counseling, and psychotherapy center. We believe in giving clients the tools to understand, question, and process their own emotions, thoughts, and behavior. In therapeutic terms, we rely on object relations and psychodynamic theoretical frameworks. In practice, this means that each patient is empowered to address his or her own mental health.
We rely on modern therapeutic techniques that give clients the tools to understand and address their mental and emotional health. We offer individual and group therapy, but even in group counseling, our goal is to help each participant achieve personal insight. Sarasota’s premier therapist, counseling, and psychotherapy center. We believe in giving clients the tools to understand, question, and process their own emotions, thoughts, and behavior. In therapeutic terms, we rely on object relations and psychodynamic theoretical frameworks. In practice, this means that each patient is empowered to address his or her own mental health.
(941) 698-6585 View (941) 698-6585
Photo of Patti Thompson, M.A., Counselor in Sarasota, FL
Patti Thompson, M.A.
Counselor, MA, CAP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
You have so many choices! One of which is with whom do you work when seeking professional help. Selection of a psychotherapist is important and equal to the reasons for pursuing therapy. Safety, compassion and respect are critical aspects of any therapeutic process. Your confidential and effective treatment is my highest priority. Our work together will help you understand yourself, address life patterns and influences - all in the interest of moving forward to attain your goals and objectives. Please call me to discuss what you are looking for and how we may work together to achieve your satisfaction.
You have so many choices! One of which is with whom do you work when seeking professional help. Selection of a psychotherapist is important and equal to the reasons for pursuing therapy. Safety, compassion and respect are critical aspects of any therapeutic process. Your confidential and effective treatment is my highest priority. Our work together will help you understand yourself, address life patterns and influences - all in the interest of moving forward to attain your goals and objectives. Please call me to discuss what you are looking for and how we may work together to achieve your satisfaction.
(941) 584-5083 View (941) 584-5083
Photo of Amanda Thomas, Counselor in Sarasota, FL
Amanda Thomas
Counselor, MS, LMHC, MCAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34243
When counseling, I look at whole person not just the current situation. I take time to get to know you and understand your situation and/or concerns. I treat all my clients with the upmost respect and compassion. I use motivational skills to help my patients see their strengths and help them create achievable goals. I believe in breaking the big goal into smaller goals that lead to meeting that larger goal. I believe this creates positive reinforcement for my clients and improves their emotional health, during what could be difficult time in their life. I look forward to helping you improve your mental health, one-step at a time.
When counseling, I look at whole person not just the current situation. I take time to get to know you and understand your situation and/or concerns. I treat all my clients with the upmost respect and compassion. I use motivational skills to help my patients see their strengths and help them create achievable goals. I believe in breaking the big goal into smaller goals that lead to meeting that larger goal. I believe this creates positive reinforcement for my clients and improves their emotional health, during what could be difficult time in their life. I look forward to helping you improve your mental health, one-step at a time.
(941) 205-7228 View (941) 205-7228
Photo of Seeking Serenity Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Sarasota, FL
Seeking Serenity Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34230  (Online Only)
Have you experienced or currently experiencing Trauma, Anxiety, and Depression? Are feeling trapped, alone, misunderstood and frustrated and feel no one around understands. You have come to the right place. Take my hand and let's get off that emotional roller coaster together. Allow me to help you break down those barriers and wall, keeping from experiencing joy and living your best life. Let's help you feel safe, heard and secure, while learning how to rebuild confidence, self-compassion and self-love.
Have you experienced or currently experiencing Trauma, Anxiety, and Depression? Are feeling trapped, alone, misunderstood and frustrated and feel no one around understands. You have come to the right place. Take my hand and let's get off that emotional roller coaster together. Allow me to help you break down those barriers and wall, keeping from experiencing joy and living your best life. Let's help you feel safe, heard and secure, while learning how to rebuild confidence, self-compassion and self-love.
(786) 244-7347 View (786) 244-7347
Photo of Tim Lloyd, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sarasota, FL
Tim Lloyd
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, BCBA, MCAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34240
Welcome to my profile. Navigating the uncertainties of life can be extremely challenging. During times of crisis, we often feel the added pressure to have all of the answers and to be decisive. It’s hard to “carry the weight of the world” when things are unraveling. My passion is to bring hope and healing to those that are hurting. I believe that the best therapy is non-judgmental and relevant. I promise to meet you where you’re at and provide you with an anchor of stability while working together to find the path of restoration and renewal.
Welcome to my profile. Navigating the uncertainties of life can be extremely challenging. During times of crisis, we often feel the added pressure to have all of the answers and to be decisive. It’s hard to “carry the weight of the world” when things are unraveling. My passion is to bring hope and healing to those that are hurting. I believe that the best therapy is non-judgmental and relevant. I promise to meet you where you’re at and provide you with an anchor of stability while working together to find the path of restoration and renewal.
(407) 543-1368 View (407) 543-1368
Photo of Judith Korn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sarasota, FL
Judith Korn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34243
I have been in practice for more than 25 years. I have a tremendous respect for the analytic process and for the individuals who are courageous enough to explore their emotional lives. I work with individuals, couples and families. Psychotherapy enables people to have a clear understanding of the themes and patterns in their lives. Having an awareness of our internal life, enables us to grow and create a sense of self.
I have been in practice for more than 25 years. I have a tremendous respect for the analytic process and for the individuals who are courageous enough to explore their emotional lives. I work with individuals, couples and families. Psychotherapy enables people to have a clear understanding of the themes and patterns in their lives. Having an awareness of our internal life, enables us to grow and create a sense of self.
(941) 548-6484 View (941) 548-6484
Photo of Cheryl Peppers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sarasota, FL
Cheryl Peppers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
While our outer lives may seem well organized, our inner lives are often plagued with unexpressed conflict and confusion. Those who dare to cultivate self-awareness are often surprised by its healing effects - that the process itself unlocks energy and propels one forward. It is never too late. I look forward to witnessing your transformation and discovering how your unique set of issues and ways of working come to bear in the therapeutic alliance that will be uniquely ours.
While our outer lives may seem well organized, our inner lives are often plagued with unexpressed conflict and confusion. Those who dare to cultivate self-awareness are often surprised by its healing effects - that the process itself unlocks energy and propels one forward. It is never too late. I look forward to witnessing your transformation and discovering how your unique set of issues and ways of working come to bear in the therapeutic alliance that will be uniquely ours.
(941) 932-8691 View (941) 932-8691
Photo of Lucy Arenberg - Lifespark Counseling, Counselor in Sarasota, FL
Lucy Arenberg - Lifespark Counseling
Counselor, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
Waitlist for new clients
Accepting new clients September, 2024. Empowering Minds and Healing Hearts... I am a strengths - based, holistic psychotherapist. You're stressed, anxious, or depressed. I get it. I've been there myself. Or perhaps you've been dealing with the same issues for many years without ever fully resolving them. My personal motto is that you are not your depression. You are not your anxiety. You are also not your past. Working with me you'll discover how to finally heal your emotional wounds. The life you're meant to live, as you define it, is waiting for you.
Accepting new clients September, 2024. Empowering Minds and Healing Hearts... I am a strengths - based, holistic psychotherapist. You're stressed, anxious, or depressed. I get it. I've been there myself. Or perhaps you've been dealing with the same issues for many years without ever fully resolving them. My personal motto is that you are not your depression. You are not your anxiety. You are also not your past. Working with me you'll discover how to finally heal your emotional wounds. The life you're meant to live, as you define it, is waiting for you.
(941) 300-1851 View (941) 300-1851
Photo of Reflections Counseling & Coaching in Sarasota, FL
Reflections Counseling & Coaching
MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34240
At Reflections, we love helping people to find peace and joy again, and to experience their personal, family, and financial dreams coming true as well. We help our clients to deal with problematic thoughts and behaviors and life stress in general also. We work from a Christian framework and we "dig" only as deeply as needed to correct the problem(s). Our coaches specifically focus on meeting your goals for a promising future! In addition to our in-person work, we also offer online courses that individuals can take in the privacy of their own home!
At Reflections, we love helping people to find peace and joy again, and to experience their personal, family, and financial dreams coming true as well. We help our clients to deal with problematic thoughts and behaviors and life stress in general also. We work from a Christian framework and we "dig" only as deeply as needed to correct the problem(s). Our coaches specifically focus on meeting your goals for a promising future! In addition to our in-person work, we also offer online courses that individuals can take in the privacy of their own home!
(941) 254-2624 View (941) 254-2624
Photo of Jennifer Burke, Counselor in Sarasota, FL
Jennifer Burke
Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34231
I have a genuine interest in people. As a Therapist, I thrive on learning what is meaningful to my clients and encouraging them to lead genuine, authentic and fulfilling lives. It is my goal to discover what is most important to my clients; To determine their goals, their values, and what fuels their resilience to tolerate and navigate change, confront uncomfortable feelings, negotiate difficult conversations, and set healthy boundaries with clarity, confidence and kindness. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and the practice of Radical Acceptance are cornerstones to integrating a process that brings individuals joy.
I have a genuine interest in people. As a Therapist, I thrive on learning what is meaningful to my clients and encouraging them to lead genuine, authentic and fulfilling lives. It is my goal to discover what is most important to my clients; To determine their goals, their values, and what fuels their resilience to tolerate and navigate change, confront uncomfortable feelings, negotiate difficult conversations, and set healthy boundaries with clarity, confidence and kindness. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and the practice of Radical Acceptance are cornerstones to integrating a process that brings individuals joy.
(941) 770-3602 View (941) 770-3602

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.