Addiction Therapists in Boise, ID

Photo of Jon Hite, MA, LCPC, NCC
Jon Hite
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83709
I have advanced education in the health science of addiction treatment.
My work is focused on understanding the interconnectedness of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while working to develop understanding of beliefs and values on which behaviors are centered. The foundation of self-understanding supports change and motivation for growth. Within everything I do is a central goal of helping my clients to live fuller and happier lives through insight, growth, and connection to others.
I have advanced education in the health science of addiction treatment.
My work is focused on understanding the interconnectedness of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while working to develop understanding of beliefs and values on which behaviors are centered. The foundation of self-understanding supports change and motivation for growth. Within everything I do is a central goal of helping my clients to live fuller and happier lives through insight, growth, and connection to others.
(208) 487-8101 View (208) 487-8101
Photo of Ashley Weiss, LCSW, ACADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Weiss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACADC
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83703
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about helping people in all areas of life. I specialize in trauma and addiction disorders, but also can help those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, schizophrenia, etc. I work from a religious perspective to help clients work through life stressors. I also provide bariatric evaluations, DUI evaluations, and domestic violence evaluations.
I am passionate about helping people in all areas of life. I specialize in trauma and addiction disorders, but also can help those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, schizophrenia, etc. I work from a religious perspective to help clients work through life stressors. I also provide bariatric evaluations, DUI evaluations, and domestic violence evaluations.
(208) 417-7309 View (208) 417-7309
Photo of Meg McGuire, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meg McGuire
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83725
I chose to pursue a second career as a LMFT due to my strong, personal interest in eating disorders, addiction, anxiety, low self worth and complex family systems.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with adults and families looking to work through their mental health challenges, all while improving their relationship with both themselves and others. I am experienced in treating individuals and families impacted by addiction, eating disorders, anxiety, relational conflict, depression, perfectionism, low self worth, life transitions and more. This includes clients currently struggling with substance abuse and disordered eating.
I chose to pursue a second career as a LMFT due to my strong, personal interest in eating disorders, addiction, anxiety, low self worth and complex family systems.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with adults and families looking to work through their mental health challenges, all while improving their relationship with both themselves and others. I am experienced in treating individuals and families impacted by addiction, eating disorders, anxiety, relational conflict, depression, perfectionism, low self worth, life transitions and more. This includes clients currently struggling with substance abuse and disordered eating.
(208) 551-5123 View (208) 551-5123
Photo of Valerie Platt, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Valerie Platt
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83705  (Online Only)
Offering Telehealth therapy - Please visit my website for my direct contact information. I appreciate the courage it takes to seek therapy and I consider the therapeutic relationship a privilege. I specialize in adult mental health therapy, with a focus on navigating the complexities of depression, trauma, and addiction. I collaborate with individuals to understand the underlying factors contributing to their challenges while helping build practical coping mechanisms and cultivate a strength-based mindset.
Offering Telehealth therapy - Please visit my website for my direct contact information. I appreciate the courage it takes to seek therapy and I consider the therapeutic relationship a privilege. I specialize in adult mental health therapy, with a focus on navigating the complexities of depression, trauma, and addiction. I collaborate with individuals to understand the underlying factors contributing to their challenges while helping build practical coping mechanisms and cultivate a strength-based mindset.
(208) 502-2741 View (208) 502-2741
Photo of Jamie Lynn Priest, LPC, SUDA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie Lynn Priest
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SUDA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83704
I have helped many people with the following: Increasing tools and skills to manage depression and anxiety, Identification and treatment of substance use disorders, Distress tolerance and interpersonal skills, Implementation of self-compassion and support, Relationship & marital issues.
Having the curiosity and courage to seek out counseling is a huge first step in your healing journey. There are so many choices of counselors out there; how do you find the right fit for you? You may be battling with substance use, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, current or past traumas and you're wondering how to begin the journey to restoration. If any of this hits home with you, I may be the right fit you are looking for. I welcome you to contact me by phone or email; I am accepting NEW clients currently. I work largely with teens, adults, and couples. I am here to support you wholeheartedly with empathy and compassion.
I have helped many people with the following: Increasing tools and skills to manage depression and anxiety, Identification and treatment of substance use disorders, Distress tolerance and interpersonal skills, Implementation of self-compassion and support, Relationship & marital issues.
Having the curiosity and courage to seek out counseling is a huge first step in your healing journey. There are so many choices of counselors out there; how do you find the right fit for you? You may be battling with substance use, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, current or past traumas and you're wondering how to begin the journey to restoration. If any of this hits home with you, I may be the right fit you are looking for. I welcome you to contact me by phone or email; I am accepting NEW clients currently. I work largely with teens, adults, and couples. I am here to support you wholeheartedly with empathy and compassion.
(208) 509-3136 View (208) 509-3136
Photo of Rachel Jessen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Jessen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83703
Cognitive-behavioral therapy has been found especially helpful in treatment of depression, anxiety, OCD, and addiction.
l I've found people do the best they can with what they've got. Coming to therapy takes courage to find a new way of being. While figuring out what is working well, and where adjustments are needed, we will have fun, too. Rather than simply listening to you, or asking about your feelings, I tend toward questions about thoughts and actions. It's okay if you don't know yet what needs to change. We will make plans together to meet goals we set in the first few sessions. These will focus on changing thoughts and behaviors that aren't helpful or effective.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy has been found especially helpful in treatment of depression, anxiety, OCD, and addiction.
l I've found people do the best they can with what they've got. Coming to therapy takes courage to find a new way of being. While figuring out what is working well, and where adjustments are needed, we will have fun, too. Rather than simply listening to you, or asking about your feelings, I tend toward questions about thoughts and actions. It's okay if you don't know yet what needs to change. We will make plans together to meet goals we set in the first few sessions. These will focus on changing thoughts and behaviors that aren't helpful or effective.
(208) 228-5628 View (208) 228-5628
Photo of Brooke Ballenberg, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brooke Ballenberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83704
Brooke Ballenberg is a licensed therapist specializing in addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, self-esteem, identity development, and sexuality. She identifies as Jewish, and has a deep appreciation for cultural and identity-related experiences. Brooke is particularly passionate about supporting individuals with this background, and welcomes clients from all cultural, spiritual and religious backgrounds. She earned a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Idaho State University. Since graduating, she gained experience working in the criminal justice system at a court-mandated treatment center.
Brooke Ballenberg is a licensed therapist specializing in addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, self-esteem, identity development, and sexuality. She identifies as Jewish, and has a deep appreciation for cultural and identity-related experiences. Brooke is particularly passionate about supporting individuals with this background, and welcomes clients from all cultural, spiritual and religious backgrounds. She earned a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Idaho State University. Since graduating, she gained experience working in the criminal justice system at a court-mandated treatment center.
(208) 375-3230 View (208) 375-3230
Photo of Steve Welsh, LCSW, ACADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steve Welsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83704
I have personally struggled with addiction and mental health problems and have overcome many obstacles in my own life. I believe my past experiences combined with my education and training give me a unique ability to help others with these problems. If you are currently struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD and other serious mental health diagnoses, or need help with addiction to drugs or alcohol please don't wait any longer and reach out today. If you are ready to make serious changes in your life I am here for you and can help.
I have personally struggled with addiction and mental health problems and have overcome many obstacles in my own life. I believe my past experiences combined with my education and training give me a unique ability to help others with these problems. If you are currently struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD and other serious mental health diagnoses, or need help with addiction to drugs or alcohol please don't wait any longer and reach out today. If you are ready to make serious changes in your life I am here for you and can help.
(208) 423-3672 View (208) 423-3672
Photo of Charles M Rice, Psychologist
Charles M Rice
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83704
Many have been helped who suffer from anxiety, panic, post-traumatic stress, phobias, and depression. Medical problems are treated including tension headache, migraine, chronic pain,irritable bowel syndrome, chrones disease, MS, Lupus, arthritis, fibromyalgia, stress and immune system insufficiency. Addictions are treated including including sex addiction, addiction to pornography, cyber-gaming, food and nicotine addiction. Also treated are adult children of addicts, and personality disorders. Treatment methods include a solution focused, brief therapy that include cognitive behavior therapy, rational hypnotherapy, bio-feedback and brief, gestalt therapy.
Many have been helped who suffer from anxiety, panic, post-traumatic stress, phobias, and depression. Medical problems are treated including tension headache, migraine, chronic pain,irritable bowel syndrome, chrones disease, MS, Lupus, arthritis, fibromyalgia, stress and immune system insufficiency. Addictions are treated including including sex addiction, addiction to pornography, cyber-gaming, food and nicotine addiction. Also treated are adult children of addicts, and personality disorders. Treatment methods include a solution focused, brief therapy that include cognitive behavior therapy, rational hypnotherapy, bio-feedback and brief, gestalt therapy.
(208) 615-2592 View (208) 615-2592
Photo of Sean Brosnan, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sean Brosnan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83716
I have a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University as well as over a decade working with drug and alcohol addiction.
“THAT WHICH WE NEED THE MOST WILL BE FOUND WHERE WE LEAST WANT TO LOOK.” Carl Jung... Perhaps you are suffering with something that's been attached to you since childhood or you are battling a current problem in one of the many units of your life (financial, physical, spiritual, relational etc). Perhaps you're not sure what's wrong, but things just don't seem quite right, perhaps I can help.
I have a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University as well as over a decade working with drug and alcohol addiction.
“THAT WHICH WE NEED THE MOST WILL BE FOUND WHERE WE LEAST WANT TO LOOK.” Carl Jung... Perhaps you are suffering with something that's been attached to you since childhood or you are battling a current problem in one of the many units of your life (financial, physical, spiritual, relational etc). Perhaps you're not sure what's wrong, but things just don't seem quite right, perhaps I can help.
(208) 274-7388 View (208) 274-7388
Photo of Andy Jenott, LCSW, ACADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andy Jenott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACADC
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83713
Hi I am Andy and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker currently accepting new adult, adolescent, and child clients. I have over 8 years of professional experience working with individuals struggling with substance use, various mental health challenges, and family conflict. Specifically, I am highly specialized in the fields of addiction, divorce, family conflict, and play therapy for children. As your therapist, my goal is to provide equal parts compassion and empathy while encouraging growth and change. Lastly, I am able draw from and offer my own life experiences with growth and change when helpful.
Hi I am Andy and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker currently accepting new adult, adolescent, and child clients. I have over 8 years of professional experience working with individuals struggling with substance use, various mental health challenges, and family conflict. Specifically, I am highly specialized in the fields of addiction, divorce, family conflict, and play therapy for children. As your therapist, my goal is to provide equal parts compassion and empathy while encouraging growth and change. Lastly, I am able draw from and offer my own life experiences with growth and change when helpful.
(208) 858-4603 View (208) 858-4603
Photo of Chris Chandler, MA, LPCC, LMHC, LPC, CSAT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chris Chandler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMHC, LPC, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83704  (Online Only)
I facilitate 10 men's and 1 women's addiction recovery groups.
My passion is helping people build healthy and meaningful lives. I am a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist trained by Dr. Patrick Carnes, the pioneer in the field of sex addiction. I have extensive experience working with individuals struggling with all forms of addictions and compulsive behaviors including: sex, pornography, drugs, alcohol, food, work, spending, codependent relationships, etc. I use Internal Family Systems, and Lifespan Integration to help people become free from underlying relational/attachment wounds.
I facilitate 10 men's and 1 women's addiction recovery groups.
My passion is helping people build healthy and meaningful lives. I am a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist trained by Dr. Patrick Carnes, the pioneer in the field of sex addiction. I have extensive experience working with individuals struggling with all forms of addictions and compulsive behaviors including: sex, pornography, drugs, alcohol, food, work, spending, codependent relationships, etc. I use Internal Family Systems, and Lifespan Integration to help people become free from underlying relational/attachment wounds.
(520) 523-8606 View (520) 523-8606
Photo of Rachel Ford, LCPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Ford
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83702  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals seeking support with with substance use problems, identity exploration, and trauma and resiliency work. I also like to help people with mood and anxiety regulation. You may have noticed these challenges are impacting your relationships or how you feel about yourself. Or maybe it is impacting goals that you are ready to finally achieve. Are you feeling a pull to engage in counseling again or try therapy for the first time? Are you ready to build skills and confidence to move your life and relationships in the direction that you feel is right for you?
I enjoy working with individuals seeking support with with substance use problems, identity exploration, and trauma and resiliency work. I also like to help people with mood and anxiety regulation. You may have noticed these challenges are impacting your relationships or how you feel about yourself. Or maybe it is impacting goals that you are ready to finally achieve. Are you feeling a pull to engage in counseling again or try therapy for the first time? Are you ready to build skills and confidence to move your life and relationships in the direction that you feel is right for you?
(208) 730-1241 View (208) 730-1241
Photo of Caleb Featherstone, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Caleb Featherstone
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83716
Caleb Featherstone received his undergraduate degree in Psychology and his graduate degree in Marriage & Family Therapy. Caleb has since received additional training in treating trauma with eye-movement and desensitization reprocessing (EMDR). He also has extensive experience working in the field of addiction with residential patients at Pine Grove Behavioral Heath and Addiction Services. Caleb believes that we should be the author of own lives and he implements a collaborative strength-based approach, tailoring therapy to each person's individual needs. This centers around the principles of education, support, and empowerment.
Caleb Featherstone received his undergraduate degree in Psychology and his graduate degree in Marriage & Family Therapy. Caleb has since received additional training in treating trauma with eye-movement and desensitization reprocessing (EMDR). He also has extensive experience working in the field of addiction with residential patients at Pine Grove Behavioral Heath and Addiction Services. Caleb believes that we should be the author of own lives and he implements a collaborative strength-based approach, tailoring therapy to each person's individual needs. This centers around the principles of education, support, and empowerment.
(208) 643-8150 View (208) 643-8150
Photo of Kathy Couch- Emdr And Couples Intensives, LCSW, CT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathy Couch- Emdr And Couples Intensives
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83702
Willow Creek Counseling provides therapy to patients seeking to recover from trauma, grief, addiction, or needing services as a couple. I am a Level 2 Gottman Institute-trained therapist and provide couples intensives from this framework. I am an EMDR Consultant and offer EMDR intensives for patients seeking EMDR. Intensives are an alternative to the weekly model of therapy. Both types of intensives are offered in an 8 or 14-hour program. Each program offers personalized treatment plans that allow you to skip the waitlist by giving you faster access to select spots and are designed to support your preferred schedule and time.
Willow Creek Counseling provides therapy to patients seeking to recover from trauma, grief, addiction, or needing services as a couple. I am a Level 2 Gottman Institute-trained therapist and provide couples intensives from this framework. I am an EMDR Consultant and offer EMDR intensives for patients seeking EMDR. Intensives are an alternative to the weekly model of therapy. Both types of intensives are offered in an 8 or 14-hour program. Each program offers personalized treatment plans that allow you to skip the waitlist by giving you faster access to select spots and are designed to support your preferred schedule and time.
(208) 795-3464 View (208) 795-3464
Photo of Katie Fraser, MS, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Fraser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83702  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders and disordered eating, substance abuse and addiction, and mood and anxiety disorders.
Therapy can be a rich, meaningful and life-changing journey. It is a process of acknowledging and exploring where you are, where you've been, and where you want to go. Though the prospect of making life changes can seem challenging, if not daunting, it can be incredibly rewarding when you learn through experience that you're capable of making these changes. As your therapist, I am committed to working alongside you as you make these changes, cheering you along the way, as you cultivate the life you want to live, choice by choice and step by step.
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders and disordered eating, substance abuse and addiction, and mood and anxiety disorders.
Therapy can be a rich, meaningful and life-changing journey. It is a process of acknowledging and exploring where you are, where you've been, and where you want to go. Though the prospect of making life changes can seem challenging, if not daunting, it can be incredibly rewarding when you learn through experience that you're capable of making these changes. As your therapist, I am committed to working alongside you as you make these changes, cheering you along the way, as you cultivate the life you want to live, choice by choice and step by step.
(458) 225-5280 View (458) 225-5280
Photo of Natalie Day, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Day
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83704  (Online Only)
I have experience treating addiction, trauma, and duel diagnosis clients.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nearly a decade of experience in the mental health field and as a person in recovery, I am passionate about helping others. I understand the pain, confusion, and fear involved with beginning to make the changes necessary to live a fulfilling and authentic life. My approach to therapy is eclectic, I believe in tailoring treatment to the individual I am working with. The connection between trauma, substance abuse, and other destructive means of coping can keep us stuck and lonely. Recovery means learning to discover and nurture the path to a healthy and connected life.
I have experience treating addiction, trauma, and duel diagnosis clients.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nearly a decade of experience in the mental health field and as a person in recovery, I am passionate about helping others. I understand the pain, confusion, and fear involved with beginning to make the changes necessary to live a fulfilling and authentic life. My approach to therapy is eclectic, I believe in tailoring treatment to the individual I am working with. The connection between trauma, substance abuse, and other destructive means of coping can keep us stuck and lonely. Recovery means learning to discover and nurture the path to a healthy and connected life.
(801) 316-8521 View (801) 316-8521
Photo of Linda Terry, LMFT, LPC, CCTP, CDHWP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda Terry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, CCTP, CDHWP
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83706  (Online Only)
If you have a loved one in need of treatment for addiction, I provide compassionate interventions that support the individual and family.
I have extensive experience working with individuals families and couples impacted by trauma, co-dependency, addiction and co-occurring disorders. Having worked in residential drug and alcohol treatment for over 10 years I bring those years of resources and compassionate experience to my work. My focus on family systems and attachment allow me to treat the entire family, offering the best possible outcomes. I am a Certified Trauma Specialist, a Gottman trained couples therapist and I am one of the few therapists working with Internet and Gaming Addiction.
If you have a loved one in need of treatment for addiction, I provide compassionate interventions that support the individual and family.
I have extensive experience working with individuals families and couples impacted by trauma, co-dependency, addiction and co-occurring disorders. Having worked in residential drug and alcohol treatment for over 10 years I bring those years of resources and compassionate experience to my work. My focus on family systems and attachment allow me to treat the entire family, offering the best possible outcomes. I am a Certified Trauma Specialist, a Gottman trained couples therapist and I am one of the few therapists working with Internet and Gaming Addiction.
(415) 299-8396 View (415) 299-8396
Photo of Ray Edward Cammack, M Ed, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ray Edward Cammack
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LCPC
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83705  (Online Only)
I have treated a wide range of problems; including, treated for depression, anxiety, addiction, grief/loss, and trauma.
Presession Change is change that takes place when you reach out for help and before initiation of counseling. As licensed counselor in the state of Idaho for nearly 25 years, I am a competent clinician able to assist you with facing life's challenges. I integrate faith and spirituality into treatment; yet, from a non-judgmental manner. I also encourage a "client-driven" approach, while eventually "working myself" out of the job of your counselor. I am a Veteran of the US Air Force, retiring in September of 1994. I have treated clients from the age of 3 to 97. I look forward to assisting you as your aid and guide.
I have treated a wide range of problems; including, treated for depression, anxiety, addiction, grief/loss, and trauma.
Presession Change is change that takes place when you reach out for help and before initiation of counseling. As licensed counselor in the state of Idaho for nearly 25 years, I am a competent clinician able to assist you with facing life's challenges. I integrate faith and spirituality into treatment; yet, from a non-judgmental manner. I also encourage a "client-driven" approach, while eventually "working myself" out of the job of your counselor. I am a Veteran of the US Air Force, retiring in September of 1994. I have treated clients from the age of 3 to 97. I look forward to assisting you as your aid and guide.
(208) 537-1611 View (208) 537-1611
Photo of Alia Harlan Kaneaiakala, MA, LMFT, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alia Harlan Kaneaiakala
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83701  (Online Only)
I am an Attachment based therapist well versed with severe levels of trauma, anxiety and depression due to family systems, addiction, adoption or other struggles. I have over 20 years experience as a dancer and dance studio owner from which I draw upon for a creative, integrative approach in therapy that helps my understanding of my clients. I believe in exploring all avenues and taking innovative approaches in therapy to aid the client in healing and personal growth.
I am an Attachment based therapist well versed with severe levels of trauma, anxiety and depression due to family systems, addiction, adoption or other struggles. I have over 20 years experience as a dancer and dance studio owner from which I draw upon for a creative, integrative approach in therapy that helps my understanding of my clients. I believe in exploring all avenues and taking innovative approaches in therapy to aid the client in healing and personal growth.
(949) 273-2912 View (949) 273-2912
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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.