Addiction Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Andrew W Rintels, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Andrew W Rintels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC , CIP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618  (Online Only)
As a certified clinical interventionist and psychotherapist, I treat individuals struggling w/ addiction and other mental health challenges and provide support for their families during the healing process. Having worked in many settings, including medical detox, RTC, PHP and IOP levels of care, I incorporate a strengths-based approach & utilize evidenced-based therapies including CBT, DBT, ACT, Relational Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. With over a decade of experience working in the addiction field utilizing empathy and humor, I have been intensively trained in a variety of modalities to ensure personalized treatment.
As a certified clinical interventionist and psychotherapist, I treat individuals struggling w/ addiction and other mental health challenges and provide support for their families during the healing process. Having worked in many settings, including medical detox, RTC, PHP and IOP levels of care, I incorporate a strengths-based approach & utilize evidenced-based therapies including CBT, DBT, ACT, Relational Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. With over a decade of experience working in the addiction field utilizing empathy and humor, I have been intensively trained in a variety of modalities to ensure personalized treatment.
(872) 278-3838 View (872) 278-3838
Photo of Kristina Fyrwald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Kristina Fyrwald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults facing a wide range of challenges including substance abuse, trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic pain/illness and relationship issues. I enjoy helping clients move through and heal whatever it is that's keeping them stuck and from moving forward in the areas of their life they desire more from (relationships, career, health, purpose). My goal is to help my clients connect to their most authentic self to live their happiest and most connected lives.
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults facing a wide range of challenges including substance abuse, trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic pain/illness and relationship issues. I enjoy helping clients move through and heal whatever it is that's keeping them stuck and from moving forward in the areas of their life they desire more from (relationships, career, health, purpose). My goal is to help my clients connect to their most authentic self to live their happiest and most connected lives.
(312) 487-4386 View (312) 487-4386
Photo of Ashley Pittman, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Ashley Pittman
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
I have experience treating children, adolescents, and adults with diverse backgrounds and a wide range of mental health concerns, including anger issues, anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. My training includes integrative, cognitive-behavioral, and mindfulness approaches to therapy, and I work out of a humanistic and person-centered approach. I possess a strong sense of compassion and commitment to helping people, while also creating a safe space to help people get unstuck.
I have experience treating children, adolescents, and adults with diverse backgrounds and a wide range of mental health concerns, including anger issues, anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. My training includes integrative, cognitive-behavioral, and mindfulness approaches to therapy, and I work out of a humanistic and person-centered approach. I possess a strong sense of compassion and commitment to helping people, while also creating a safe space to help people get unstuck.
(312) 516-2378 View (312) 516-2378
Photo of Elliott Lugo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Elliott Lugo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60646
My background is in working with teens and adults that struggle with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse, parenting difficulties, building healthy relationships, and life transitions such as the loss of a job.
It's a tough time out there these days. Between the economy, managing school or work, relationship issues, not knowing where you fit in or what your purpose might be, or just having an even harder time than usual dealing with mental health issues, so many of us are feeling burned out and not sure how to cope. You might have fallen into ways of dealing with life that aren't working out so great for you, like drinking too much, self-harming, isolating from others, or forming unhealthy relationships. It can be easy to think that you're alone in struggling this way, that the confidence, joy, and connection you need is unreachable.
My background is in working with teens and adults that struggle with issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse, parenting difficulties, building healthy relationships, and life transitions such as the loss of a job.
It's a tough time out there these days. Between the economy, managing school or work, relationship issues, not knowing where you fit in or what your purpose might be, or just having an even harder time than usual dealing with mental health issues, so many of us are feeling burned out and not sure how to cope. You might have fallen into ways of dealing with life that aren't working out so great for you, like drinking too much, self-harming, isolating from others, or forming unhealthy relationships. It can be easy to think that you're alone in struggling this way, that the confidence, joy, and connection you need is unreachable.
(779) 204-4809 View (779) 204-4809
Photo of Dr. Gina Gaston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Dr. Gina Gaston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606  (Online Only)
Hi I’m Gina! Do you know that everyone feels overwhelmed from time to time? Balancing the demands of life, family, and work can be challenging, especially now. I have a PhD and MSW from the University of Illinois at Chicago. I am a highly trained therapist with experience helping people work through issues such as grief and loss, depression, anxiety, addiction, and a host of other issues that may be affecting your well-being. I am a strength-based therapist that views every client as having the ability to work through challenges. Sometimes all you need is a little help to move forward.
Hi I’m Gina! Do you know that everyone feels overwhelmed from time to time? Balancing the demands of life, family, and work can be challenging, especially now. I have a PhD and MSW from the University of Illinois at Chicago. I am a highly trained therapist with experience helping people work through issues such as grief and loss, depression, anxiety, addiction, and a host of other issues that may be affecting your well-being. I am a strength-based therapist that views every client as having the ability to work through challenges. Sometimes all you need is a little help to move forward.
(224) 339-7325 View (224) 339-7325
Photo of Christina Pizarro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Christina Pizarro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654  (Online Only)
As you embark on your journey, therapy can provide a safe and supportive space to explore, understand and challenge life experiences that shape our identities and perceptions of the world. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 6 years of experience providing therapy and other clinical services to individuals struggling with severe mental illness and addiction, I approach therapy from a holistic and multicultural perspective. As a Mexican and Filipino American woman, I draw on my personal experiences to better understand how cultural factors influence our perceptions of ourselves and the world around us.
As you embark on your journey, therapy can provide a safe and supportive space to explore, understand and challenge life experiences that shape our identities and perceptions of the world. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 6 years of experience providing therapy and other clinical services to individuals struggling with severe mental illness and addiction, I approach therapy from a holistic and multicultural perspective. As a Mexican and Filipino American woman, I draw on my personal experiences to better understand how cultural factors influence our perceptions of ourselves and the world around us.
(312) 820-8944 View (312) 820-8944
Photo of Michael Lloyd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Michael Lloyd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
I specialize in mood disorders as well as LGBTQIA clients suffering from addiction to alcohol, crystal methamphetamine, and heroin.
I have worked in many different contexts of practice, from inpatient psychiatric care to outpatient substance use with many diverse communities including the LGBTQIA community, youth and families, racial/ethnic minorities, and persons entering and leaving the federal prison system. I utilize an eclectic style including motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy in order to provide a safe and supportive place for clients to create change. I believe that it is important to assess each client's needs and provide either direct support or space for an individual to work on their own for short or long term care.
I specialize in mood disorders as well as LGBTQIA clients suffering from addiction to alcohol, crystal methamphetamine, and heroin.
I have worked in many different contexts of practice, from inpatient psychiatric care to outpatient substance use with many diverse communities including the LGBTQIA community, youth and families, racial/ethnic minorities, and persons entering and leaving the federal prison system. I utilize an eclectic style including motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy in order to provide a safe and supportive place for clients to create change. I believe that it is important to assess each client's needs and provide either direct support or space for an individual to work on their own for short or long term care.
(847) 416-0716 View (847) 416-0716
Photo of Jl Family Services Ltd. in Chicago, IL
Jl Family Services Ltd.
LCPC, CADC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
I have a deep passion for working with individuals seeking support for issues related to sex, sexual dysfunction, and substance abuse. I believe in the transformative power of addressing these challenges head-on and creating a space where healing can flourish. With empathy and expertise, I am here to guide you on your unique path toward reclaiming your sexual well-being and overcoming substance abuse, empowering you to live a fulfilling and vibrant life. I am dedicated to guiding individuals toward a path of healing, empowerment, and personal growth.
I have a deep passion for working with individuals seeking support for issues related to sex, sexual dysfunction, and substance abuse. I believe in the transformative power of addressing these challenges head-on and creating a space where healing can flourish. With empathy and expertise, I am here to guide you on your unique path toward reclaiming your sexual well-being and overcoming substance abuse, empowering you to live a fulfilling and vibrant life. I am dedicated to guiding individuals toward a path of healing, empowerment, and personal growth.
(312) 957-7682 View (312) 957-7682
Photo of Daniella Martinez, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Daniella Martinez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
Have you ever struggled to stop a behavior or stop using a substance and felt discouraged? You are not alone, and change is possible.
I have a passion for helping individuals overcome challenges, and have a better understanding of themselves and what they want in life. I specialize in working with children and adolescents, individuals with substance abuse, and transitioning through life's daily struggles. As a former teacher, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges that children and teens face, including academic stress, peer pressure, and social anxiety. I also help clients with substance abuse issues navigate the challenges and build resilience, by processing the underlying issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem.
Have you ever struggled to stop a behavior or stop using a substance and felt discouraged? You are not alone, and change is possible.
I have a passion for helping individuals overcome challenges, and have a better understanding of themselves and what they want in life. I specialize in working with children and adolescents, individuals with substance abuse, and transitioning through life's daily struggles. As a former teacher, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges that children and teens face, including academic stress, peer pressure, and social anxiety. I also help clients with substance abuse issues navigate the challenges and build resilience, by processing the underlying issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem.
(312) 728-4057 View (312) 728-4057
Photo of Michael E. Trammell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Michael E. Trammell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
My experience includes active treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues, LGBT Issues, Addiction, and General Life Concerns.
Therapy is an Investment in yourself and a first step in making positive life changes. With over 20 years of experience I bring compassion, sensitivity and a genuine interest to solution focused treatment. I approach treatment through active listening in a conversational style. Together we will establish areas of your life in which you would like to make changes and we will develop goals & strategies to maximize your desired outcomes. Unresolved past issues will be addressed & integrated into treatment to enrich growth and positive change.
My experience includes active treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues, LGBT Issues, Addiction, and General Life Concerns.
Therapy is an Investment in yourself and a first step in making positive life changes. With over 20 years of experience I bring compassion, sensitivity and a genuine interest to solution focused treatment. I approach treatment through active listening in a conversational style. Together we will establish areas of your life in which you would like to make changes and we will develop goals & strategies to maximize your desired outcomes. Unresolved past issues will be addressed & integrated into treatment to enrich growth and positive change.
(773) 559-1069 View (773) 559-1069
Photo of Shawntrell Moore, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Shawntrell Moore
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654  (Online Only)
So much pain can be derived from mental health and/or addiction issues! Suffering arises if left untreated! Reach out and let's determine if you and I are a good fit!.
Make substantial change expeditiously! My aim is to help clients (adults, teens) find comfort with emotional vulnerability and healing through introspection of thoughts, behaviors, and values which prompts new action. My ideal client is one who is interested in processing emotions, gaining insight, and using existing/untapped internal and external resources. I am a thoughtful, compassionate, collaborative, and patient professional with 15 years of experience. Can definitely assist with trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship issues/divorce, shame, identity issues, and simply improving one's well-being.
So much pain can be derived from mental health and/or addiction issues! Suffering arises if left untreated! Reach out and let's determine if you and I are a good fit!.
Make substantial change expeditiously! My aim is to help clients (adults, teens) find comfort with emotional vulnerability and healing through introspection of thoughts, behaviors, and values which prompts new action. My ideal client is one who is interested in processing emotions, gaining insight, and using existing/untapped internal and external resources. I am a thoughtful, compassionate, collaborative, and patient professional with 15 years of experience. Can definitely assist with trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship issues/divorce, shame, identity issues, and simply improving one's well-being.
(847) 780-9311 View (847) 780-9311
Photo of Alexis Sharon, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Alexis Sharon
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60654
I provide a warm, compassionate, and nonjudgmental atmosphere to help you feel comfortable opening up about what you have been struggling with. I specialize in working with adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, addiction issues, dealing with a life transition, and relationship issues. Many of my clients begin counseling because they are not feeling like themselves and want to make a healthy change. Sometimes we don't know exactly what that change is until we begin to build awareness around our needs in therapy.
I provide a warm, compassionate, and nonjudgmental atmosphere to help you feel comfortable opening up about what you have been struggling with. I specialize in working with adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, addiction issues, dealing with a life transition, and relationship issues. Many of my clients begin counseling because they are not feeling like themselves and want to make a healthy change. Sometimes we don't know exactly what that change is until we begin to build awareness around our needs in therapy.
(312) 874-6142 View (312) 874-6142
Photo of comfortable conversations, inc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
comfortable conversations, inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60620
We are here to assist you with help with life challenging decisions, alternative life style conflicts, individual and family therapy, teen problems with parents and substance abuse issues.
Our vision: 1. provide therapy and life coaching to population that feels that their concerns are not major enough to go an office base setting 2. Avoiding the stigma of others knowing that you are seeking mental health assistance 3. Provide services at a reasonable cost Benefits instead of Future 1. The service is available to anyone that has access to a computer or smart phone 2. There is no specific time to talk to your therapist or coach 3. Receive assistance from anywhere that is comfortable for you 4. A good source of positive interactions for teens and college students
We are here to assist you with help with life challenging decisions, alternative life style conflicts, individual and family therapy, teen problems with parents and substance abuse issues.
Our vision: 1. provide therapy and life coaching to population that feels that their concerns are not major enough to go an office base setting 2. Avoiding the stigma of others knowing that you are seeking mental health assistance 3. Provide services at a reasonable cost Benefits instead of Future 1. The service is available to anyone that has access to a computer or smart phone 2. There is no specific time to talk to your therapist or coach 3. Receive assistance from anywhere that is comfortable for you 4. A good source of positive interactions for teens and college students
(219) 276-8772 View (219) 276-8772
Photo of Anthony Oltean, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Anthony Oltean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I provide Individual Psychotherapy, as well as supportive Substance Abuse Counseling.
For many of us, living an emotionally and physically healthy lifestyle, while working, trying to build friendships, finding companionship, are at times difficult and disheartening. I offer therapeutic support aimed at enhancing your natural strengths, introduce new coping abilities, challenge unproductive thoughts, beliefs, and patterns of behavior, as well as providing you the opportunity to try on a new perspective toward your life. I have worked predominately with the LGBTQ+ population, as well as variety of communities located in the Lakeview area.
I provide Individual Psychotherapy, as well as supportive Substance Abuse Counseling.
For many of us, living an emotionally and physically healthy lifestyle, while working, trying to build friendships, finding companionship, are at times difficult and disheartening. I offer therapeutic support aimed at enhancing your natural strengths, introduce new coping abilities, challenge unproductive thoughts, beliefs, and patterns of behavior, as well as providing you the opportunity to try on a new perspective toward your life. I have worked predominately with the LGBTQ+ population, as well as variety of communities located in the Lakeview area.
(773) 672-3852 View (773) 672-3852
Photo of Ashley M. Lewis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Ashley M. Lewis
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhDc, LPC-NCC, BSP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605
Ashley works with and has a passion for providing services to individuals living with/battling mental health, learning, mood, performance, and traumatic dysregulations- from adolescents, adults, to older adults. She specializes in athletic/human performance psychology and substance use/misuse- harm reduction. Along with providing services, she has a dedication to being a light and a gatekeeper for the fields of mental health, counseling, clinical supervision, and sport psychology. It is her desire to see folks live in their purpose(s) and be the optimal versions of their true/authentic selves.
Ashley works with and has a passion for providing services to individuals living with/battling mental health, learning, mood, performance, and traumatic dysregulations- from adolescents, adults, to older adults. She specializes in athletic/human performance psychology and substance use/misuse- harm reduction. Along with providing services, she has a dedication to being a light and a gatekeeper for the fields of mental health, counseling, clinical supervision, and sport psychology. It is her desire to see folks live in their purpose(s) and be the optimal versions of their true/authentic selves.
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Photo of Nick Turner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Nick Turner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
I specialize in mindfulness based therapies and have a background in treating anxiety, anger, depression, impulse control, substance use (abstinence and/or moderation), trauma, and general life stress.
Authenticity, compassion, and empathy are qualities that I try to embody in both my personal and professional lives. As a therapist I aim to help you examine challenging parts of your experience (internal and external) and decide what you would like to do about them. No matter what you are going through, therapy can help you live a more fulfilling and purposeful life (as defined by you).
I specialize in mindfulness based therapies and have a background in treating anxiety, anger, depression, impulse control, substance use (abstinence and/or moderation), trauma, and general life stress.
Authenticity, compassion, and empathy are qualities that I try to embody in both my personal and professional lives. As a therapist I aim to help you examine challenging parts of your experience (internal and external) and decide what you would like to do about them. No matter what you are going through, therapy can help you live a more fulfilling and purposeful life (as defined by you).
(312) 516-4299 View (312) 516-4299
Photo of Hannah Mason, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Hannah Mason
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I believe that an open and connected therapeutic relationship is the most important means for healing and growth. To me, therapy is a partnership fostered through consent, input, and feedback as the process unfolds. My primary practice areas are depression, anxiety, stress management, grief/life-stage transitions, trauma, substance abuse/addiction, and relational difficulties.
I believe that an open and connected therapeutic relationship is the most important means for healing and growth. To me, therapy is a partnership fostered through consent, input, and feedback as the process unfolds. My primary practice areas are depression, anxiety, stress management, grief/life-stage transitions, trauma, substance abuse/addiction, and relational difficulties.
(773) 657-2139 View (773) 657-2139
Photo of Jeffrey Caldcleugh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jeffrey Caldcleugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I specialize in individual, couples and family therapy related to substance use disorders, eating disorders, process addictions, anxiety/depression, trauma/PTSD, self-esteem, shame, grief and loss and crisis intervention.
Hello! I use a collaborative and strengths-based approach with each of my clients. I have years of experience working with Client's and Families/Couple's from working in both mental health treatment facilities and outpatient private practice. I integrate a variety of evidenced-based treatment interventions to address behavioral health issues, including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Twelve-Step Facilitation Therapy, Psychodynamics and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy.
I specialize in individual, couples and family therapy related to substance use disorders, eating disorders, process addictions, anxiety/depression, trauma/PTSD, self-esteem, shame, grief and loss and crisis intervention.
Hello! I use a collaborative and strengths-based approach with each of my clients. I have years of experience working with Client's and Families/Couple's from working in both mental health treatment facilities and outpatient private practice. I integrate a variety of evidenced-based treatment interventions to address behavioral health issues, including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Twelve-Step Facilitation Therapy, Psychodynamics and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy.
(312) 548-3788 View (312) 548-3788
Photo of Lindsey Eilers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Lindsey Eilers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622  (Online Only)
I have a specialty in addiction therapy but also specialize in many other areas such as depression, anxiety, trauma and difficult life experiences. When working with clients, I seek to support and empower each individual and motivate them to work toward change. By using an integrative and collaborative approach I incorporate my background in cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy and person-centered therapy. My goal is to help clients equip themselves with skills, clarity, meaning and self-awareness, so they are better able to experience a meaningful and satisfying life.
I have a specialty in addiction therapy but also specialize in many other areas such as depression, anxiety, trauma and difficult life experiences. When working with clients, I seek to support and empower each individual and motivate them to work toward change. By using an integrative and collaborative approach I incorporate my background in cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy and person-centered therapy. My goal is to help clients equip themselves with skills, clarity, meaning and self-awareness, so they are better able to experience a meaningful and satisfying life.
(773) 345-7007 View (773) 345-7007
Photo of Mary Colleen Mahoney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Mary Colleen Mahoney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I have also worked at a substance abuse agency as a counselor helping those struggling with co-occurring disorders.
Life can feel challenging at times. It can cause us to feel anxious or depressed. Often times, the feelings we experience in life can be overwhelming and impact our ability to manage these emotions. Therapy can help us learn how to manage these emotions and identify ways to problem solve different life struggles. Sometimes we want to learn skills to manage life’s challenges and sometimes all we want is a listening ear and to feel validated. Therapy helps us to not feel alone in this world and provides the support we may need in life.
I have also worked at a substance abuse agency as a counselor helping those struggling with co-occurring disorders.
Life can feel challenging at times. It can cause us to feel anxious or depressed. Often times, the feelings we experience in life can be overwhelming and impact our ability to manage these emotions. Therapy can help us learn how to manage these emotions and identify ways to problem solve different life struggles. Sometimes we want to learn skills to manage life’s challenges and sometimes all we want is a listening ear and to feel validated. Therapy helps us to not feel alone in this world and provides the support we may need in life.
(312) 626-0577 View (312) 626-0577
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.