Addiction Therapists in Riverwoods, IL

Photo of Chicago Mental Health Institute, Counselor in Riverwoods, IL
Chicago Mental Health Institute
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LCPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Riverwoods, IL 60015
Dr. Oksoon Cho is the founder of the Chicago Mental Health Institute (CMHI) and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, a counselor educator, and clinical supervisor. Her approach is integrative with Multicultural Counseling, Client-Centered, CBT, Mindfulness, Trauma-Focused, EMDR, Strength-Based, and play therapy. CMHI provides in-person sessions and telemental health services for culturally diverse clients in English and Korean. To meet our professional team, visit www.KOREANcounseling.com and www.CHICAGOmhi.com.
Dr. Oksoon Cho is the founder of the Chicago Mental Health Institute (CMHI) and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, a counselor educator, and clinical supervisor. Her approach is integrative with Multicultural Counseling, Client-Centered, CBT, Mindfulness, Trauma-Focused, EMDR, Strength-Based, and play therapy. CMHI provides in-person sessions and telemental health services for culturally diverse clients in English and Korean. To meet our professional team, visit www.KOREANcounseling.com and www.CHICAGOmhi.com.
(630) 556-8162 View (630) 556-8162

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Karolina Kozakiewicz, Counselor in Riverwoods, IL
Karolina Kozakiewicz
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I have been counseling people with substance use and mental health disorders for the past ten years.
My counseling philosophy is based on the idea that connection is the most important factor in healing. Getting to know a patient in therapy is an adventure. It’s a journey that often starts at the time of the initial phone conversation. The road takes us through peaks and valleys neither side predicted. I use my personality, mind, and spirit to understand the needs of my clients. These instruments encourage building a relationship in which we can collaborate to reach goals.
I have been counseling people with substance use and mental health disorders for the past ten years.
My counseling philosophy is based on the idea that connection is the most important factor in healing. Getting to know a patient in therapy is an adventure. It’s a journey that often starts at the time of the initial phone conversation. The road takes us through peaks and valleys neither side predicted. I use my personality, mind, and spirit to understand the needs of my clients. These instruments encourage building a relationship in which we can collaborate to reach goals.
(847) 393-8122 View (847) 393-8122
Photo of Trish Flaherty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Riverwoods, IL
Trish Flaherty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CGP
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015  (Online Only)
Is addiction, an eating disorder, body image issues or trauma getting in the way of living your best life? Do you feel like Eeyore from Winnie the Pooh? Your outlook on life is gloomy at best. Perhaps your food/exercise obsession is out of control. Maybe you’re attracted to risk and, as such, using drugs/alcohol to the point where it's derailing your life. Is shame what controls you? It could be fear getting in your way. Does your stomach ache, your palms sweat, or your anxiety give you that sinking feeling in the bottom of your belly that stops you in your tracks? With all this madness, there’s no time to thrive; merely survive.
Is addiction, an eating disorder, body image issues or trauma getting in the way of living your best life? Do you feel like Eeyore from Winnie the Pooh? Your outlook on life is gloomy at best. Perhaps your food/exercise obsession is out of control. Maybe you’re attracted to risk and, as such, using drugs/alcohol to the point where it's derailing your life. Is shame what controls you? It could be fear getting in your way. Does your stomach ache, your palms sweat, or your anxiety give you that sinking feeling in the bottom of your belly that stops you in your tracks? With all this madness, there’s no time to thrive; merely survive.
(872) 204-2435 View (872) 204-2435
Photo of Noah Gelfman, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Riverwoods, IL
Noah Gelfman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life and all of its moving parts? Are your emotions weighing you down and keeping you from reaching your full potential? I am here to be the support you need to make long lasting change. Together, we can make sense of your struggles and put the past to rest, so you can take charge over the rest of your life. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and substance use related issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life and all of its moving parts? Are your emotions weighing you down and keeping you from reaching your full potential? I am here to be the support you need to make long lasting change. Together, we can make sense of your struggles and put the past to rest, so you can take charge over the rest of your life. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and substance use related issues.
(847) 416-8319 View (847) 416-8319
Photo of Eileen Harte, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Riverwoods, IL
Eileen Harte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
I have been privileged to guide people through complex medical situations, terminal illnesses, chronic illness, trauma and addiction.
This is all about you! I believe we are born with exactly what we need to be successful in this life, it’s just a matter of being willing to do the deep dive. I am passionate about helping people recognize and embrace their strength and hope. Seeking guidance and support on any leg of life’s journey takes courage, a commitment to truth, and an openness to vulnerability. One of my favorite quotes is from Brene Brown, Ph.D., “Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change.” Compassion, humor, and vulnerability create a superpower that builds a foundation for lasting change.
I have been privileged to guide people through complex medical situations, terminal illnesses, chronic illness, trauma and addiction.
This is all about you! I believe we are born with exactly what we need to be successful in this life, it’s just a matter of being willing to do the deep dive. I am passionate about helping people recognize and embrace their strength and hope. Seeking guidance and support on any leg of life’s journey takes courage, a commitment to truth, and an openness to vulnerability. One of my favorite quotes is from Brene Brown, Ph.D., “Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change.” Compassion, humor, and vulnerability create a superpower that builds a foundation for lasting change.
(224) 218-5383 View (224) 218-5383
Photo of Kari Fitzgerald, Counselor in Riverwoods, IL
Kari Fitzgerald
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, ERYT
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035  (Online Only)
From late-adolescents to aging adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, trauma and substance use disorders, we will partner together to find the best course of treatment on your terms. It is important to me that we build trust and cohesively create your treatment plan on a timeline that feels right for your needs. Building trust in our relationship is incredibly important & authenticity is key. Getting to know you and your history takes some time. But we will address what brought you into therapy & find you some relief right away as we begin your healing process.
From late-adolescents to aging adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, trauma and substance use disorders, we will partner together to find the best course of treatment on your terms. It is important to me that we build trust and cohesively create your treatment plan on a timeline that feels right for your needs. Building trust in our relationship is incredibly important & authenticity is key. Getting to know you and your history takes some time. But we will address what brought you into therapy & find you some relief right away as we begin your healing process.
(779) 242-2771 View (779) 242-2771
Photo of Dennis A Lubchenko, Counselor in Riverwoods, IL
Dennis A Lubchenko
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, PCGC
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Lincolnshire, IL 60069
I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist in the mental health field. I am passionate about helping people overcome their life stressors, past hurts, and to function in a healthier way. I help clients who suffer from mental health disorders, current problems, substance related addictions along with process related addictions (i.e. sex, gambling, shopping). I most frequently use Insight Oriented Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) approaches; as well as CBT and DBT when appropriate. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, and family members.
I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist in the mental health field. I am passionate about helping people overcome their life stressors, past hurts, and to function in a healthier way. I help clients who suffer from mental health disorders, current problems, substance related addictions along with process related addictions (i.e. sex, gambling, shopping). I most frequently use Insight Oriented Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) approaches; as well as CBT and DBT when appropriate. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, and family members.
(224) 935-4535 View (224) 935-4535
Photo of Devin Stieber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Riverwoods, IL
Devin Stieber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, ACSW, PCGC
Verified Verified
23 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035  (Online Only)
I am a generalist practitioner, but also have certifications in substance use, gambling, and trauma.
Has life given you unexpected curveballs that cause stress or sadness? If so, you are in the right place! Please allow me the privilege of collaborating to achieve optimal wellness and life satisfaction. I utilize a litany of tools to identify “hang ups,” and provide a gentle, caring, and authentic environment to develop a game plan that supports progress and capitalizes on strengths. I believe that everyone can thrive better with support and connection. I encourage introspection and self-awareness to better connect peacefully with yourself and the world. I presently provide virtual sessions for state of Illinois residents.
I am a generalist practitioner, but also have certifications in substance use, gambling, and trauma.
Has life given you unexpected curveballs that cause stress or sadness? If so, you are in the right place! Please allow me the privilege of collaborating to achieve optimal wellness and life satisfaction. I utilize a litany of tools to identify “hang ups,” and provide a gentle, caring, and authentic environment to develop a game plan that supports progress and capitalizes on strengths. I believe that everyone can thrive better with support and connection. I encourage introspection and self-awareness to better connect peacefully with yourself and the world. I presently provide virtual sessions for state of Illinois residents.
(847) 737-4923 View (847) 737-4923
Photo of Ramona B. Zarate, Counselor in Riverwoods, IL
Ramona B. Zarate
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015  (Online Only)
My specialties include Depression, Anxiety, Substance Use Disorders, Co-occurring Disorders, and Grief.
Therapy can be a safe way for individuals to address the underlying causes of their depression or anxiety. It is a way for individuals to develop internal tools and to gain support to manage their emotions that prevent them from living a happier and more meaningful life. Therapy can be a way to learn more about yourself and to set aside time to take care of yourself.
My specialties include Depression, Anxiety, Substance Use Disorders, Co-occurring Disorders, and Grief.
Therapy can be a safe way for individuals to address the underlying causes of their depression or anxiety. It is a way for individuals to develop internal tools and to gain support to manage their emotions that prevent them from living a happier and more meaningful life. Therapy can be a way to learn more about yourself and to set aside time to take care of yourself.
(847) 261-8165 View (847) 261-8165
Photo of Jean Rock, Counselor in Riverwoods, IL
Jean Rock
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
My specialties include Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Addiction, LGBTQIA+, Grief, Loss, Relationship Issues, Trauma, and Eating Related Concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with strong clinical training and years of experience in private practice, high school and community mental health settings. I obtained a Master's in Counseling and Psychotherapy from the Institute for Clinical Social Work. In addition, I received certification as a Grief Support Specialist from the University of Wisconsin. My main objective is to support you in gaining a deeper understanding of your emotional challenges, while at the same time, empowering you to make healthy and desired changes.
My specialties include Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Addiction, LGBTQIA+, Grief, Loss, Relationship Issues, Trauma, and Eating Related Concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with strong clinical training and years of experience in private practice, high school and community mental health settings. I obtained a Master's in Counseling and Psychotherapy from the Institute for Clinical Social Work. In addition, I received certification as a Grief Support Specialist from the University of Wisconsin. My main objective is to support you in gaining a deeper understanding of your emotional challenges, while at the same time, empowering you to make healthy and desired changes.
(847) 321-7325 View (847) 321-7325
Photo of Leigh Rzepecki, LCSW, CADC, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Riverwoods, IL
Leigh Rzepecki, LCSW, CADC, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Lincolnshire, IL 60069
In addition to my passion of healing from diet-culture, disordered eating patterns, and substance abuse, I’ve worked as an antepartum and postpartum social worker.
There are so many individuals and families that I enjoy working with. What I am most passionate about is working with individuals struggling to find peace with his/her/their body, food, and self-worth. This topic has been the focus of my training and professional life for nearly a decade. Working in higher levels of care has provided extensive training with emphasis on disordered eating and mood and anxiety diagnoses, as well as substance abuse. This training has helped to address patterns that often appear in family milieus and where shame often perpetuates the cycle of maladaptive behaviors.
In addition to my passion of healing from diet-culture, disordered eating patterns, and substance abuse, I’ve worked as an antepartum and postpartum social worker.
There are so many individuals and families that I enjoy working with. What I am most passionate about is working with individuals struggling to find peace with his/her/their body, food, and self-worth. This topic has been the focus of my training and professional life for nearly a decade. Working in higher levels of care has provided extensive training with emphasis on disordered eating and mood and anxiety diagnoses, as well as substance abuse. This training has helped to address patterns that often appear in family milieus and where shame often perpetuates the cycle of maladaptive behaviors.
(224) 218-5322 View (224) 218-5322
Photo of Diane B Soteras, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Riverwoods, IL
Diane B Soteras
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lincolnshire, IL 60069
I have been assisting individuals, couples, groups and families navigate the difficulties that accompany Substance Abuse/Dependence, Dual-Diagnosis, Narcissistic Abuse Survivor Recovery and relationship difficulties for over 20 years. My experience supporting and guiding clients through theses life experiences has taught me that what we can usually expect to find beneath these presenting behaviors can be a mix of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, betrayal, trauma and stress. This is what creates unmanageability. Together we will design healthy coping skills and boundaries in order to create awareness and restore manageability.
I have been assisting individuals, couples, groups and families navigate the difficulties that accompany Substance Abuse/Dependence, Dual-Diagnosis, Narcissistic Abuse Survivor Recovery and relationship difficulties for over 20 years. My experience supporting and guiding clients through theses life experiences has taught me that what we can usually expect to find beneath these presenting behaviors can be a mix of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, betrayal, trauma and stress. This is what creates unmanageability. Together we will design healthy coping skills and boundaries in order to create awareness and restore manageability.
(224) 218-9053 View (224) 218-9053
Photo of Rickey Schwartz, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Riverwoods, IL
Rickey Schwartz
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
I specialize in substance abuse. I am a seasoned counselor and for the past decade my focus has been on working with individuals, groups, families, and couples who are struggling with substance use. I have led others to a life of understanding themselves and their relationships with substances. I have led many to make sense of the insanity that surrounds the disease of addiction.
I specialize in substance abuse. I am a seasoned counselor and for the past decade my focus has been on working with individuals, groups, families, and couples who are struggling with substance use. I have led others to a life of understanding themselves and their relationships with substances. I have led many to make sense of the insanity that surrounds the disease of addiction.
(847) 380-7393 View (847) 380-7393
Photo of Lisa Abrams, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Riverwoods, IL
Lisa Abrams
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCPC, CSADC, MCAP, ICADC, CIP
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
Specialized Care: Addiction & Co-Occurring Counselor, Consult, Coaching, Interventions Couples & Family Counseling Support individuals for whom non-traditional approaches to treatment have been ineffective and overly constrictive (e.g. AA)
Specialized Care: Addiction & Co-Occurring Counselor, Consult, Coaching, Interventions Couples & Family Counseling Support individuals for whom non-traditional approaches to treatment have been ineffective and overly constrictive (e.g. AA)
(312) 800-1772 View (312) 800-1772
Photo of Martin M Parker, Psychologist in Riverwoods, IL
Martin M Parker
Psychologist, PsyD, CADC
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I work with couples where substance abuse or addictive behavior has become the moderating variable preventing their relationship from improving.
My ideal client is an individual who is fearful and discouraged and believes that he or she can never change. He or she is on the brink of failure in a long term relationship or at their career and is literally stuck in the cycle of bad choices and unpleasant results. It has been said to me that sobriety can truly be empowering and change all areas of ones lives. Remember substance abuse does not have to be hard drugs, it can be sugar or overeating. Addiction comes in many forms. CHANGE CAN HAPPEN!! Should we talk?
I work with couples where substance abuse or addictive behavior has become the moderating variable preventing their relationship from improving.
My ideal client is an individual who is fearful and discouraged and believes that he or she can never change. He or she is on the brink of failure in a long term relationship or at their career and is literally stuck in the cycle of bad choices and unpleasant results. It has been said to me that sobriety can truly be empowering and change all areas of ones lives. Remember substance abuse does not have to be hard drugs, it can be sugar or overeating. Addiction comes in many forms. CHANGE CAN HAPPEN!! Should we talk?
(847) 446-7755 View (847) 446-7755
Photo of Illinois Healing Center for Trauma and Addiction, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Riverwoods, IL
Illinois Healing Center for Trauma and Addiction
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
Our staff is a comprehensive group of clinicians whom specialize in trauma and addiction treatment, utilizing modalities like EMDR, CBT, Humanistic and Existential.
Living with an unresolved or unprocessed trauma, whether it be physical, sexual, emotional, or even relational, can make life seem heavy. Yet, there's hope to transform yourself from a victim to a survivor. Our therapeutic journey will explore the interweaves between negative/deviant compulsive behaviors, unhealthy attachments, as well as general life areas where you find yourself highly anxious or stuck. The goal is to ultimately be able to look yourself in the mirror, smile and say, "I'm OK." You won't be alone in this journey to a healthier more positive life. We will be supporting you as you get to a more satisfying place.
Our staff is a comprehensive group of clinicians whom specialize in trauma and addiction treatment, utilizing modalities like EMDR, CBT, Humanistic and Existential.
Living with an unresolved or unprocessed trauma, whether it be physical, sexual, emotional, or even relational, can make life seem heavy. Yet, there's hope to transform yourself from a victim to a survivor. Our therapeutic journey will explore the interweaves between negative/deviant compulsive behaviors, unhealthy attachments, as well as general life areas where you find yourself highly anxious or stuck. The goal is to ultimately be able to look yourself in the mirror, smile and say, "I'm OK." You won't be alone in this journey to a healthier more positive life. We will be supporting you as you get to a more satisfying place.
(224) 212-1699 View (224) 212-1699
Photo of Marcia Nickow, Psychologist in Riverwoods, IL
Marcia Nickow
Psychologist, PsyD, CADC, CGP
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I love working with people of all cultures who have histories of trauma and addiction and who want to make pivotal breakthroughs in recovery. I work best with patients who engage honestly, directly and courageously; welcome challenges; and want to thrive. We discover and nurture strengths borne of struggle. I specialize in culturally responsive group treatment of trauma and addiction, relationship issues, family dynamics and multigenerational legacies. I empower patients; we tap into their insight, intellect, creativity and spontaneity. I enthusiastically welcome Black, Brown, Indigenous, and other People of Color to my practice.
I love working with people of all cultures who have histories of trauma and addiction and who want to make pivotal breakthroughs in recovery. I work best with patients who engage honestly, directly and courageously; welcome challenges; and want to thrive. We discover and nurture strengths borne of struggle. I specialize in culturally responsive group treatment of trauma and addiction, relationship issues, family dynamics and multigenerational legacies. I empower patients; we tap into their insight, intellect, creativity and spontaneity. I enthusiastically welcome Black, Brown, Indigenous, and other People of Color to my practice.
(847) 906-2483 View (847) 906-2483
Photo of Cathy Drucker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Riverwoods, IL
Cathy Drucker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lincolnshire, IL 60069
In June of 2023, I will reach forty years as a psychotherapist. I have practiced in the states of Ohio, Arizona, and currently in Illinois. I have worked with a wide range client population. My six specialties include adolescent and adult substance abuse, anger management, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and stress management. Other areas include all those stated in this profile. Moreover, I provide individual, couples counseling, family therapy, and group therapy. Making the decision to get counseling, can be a very anxiety provoking situation. Actually, taking the step to get counseling is an enormous strength!
In June of 2023, I will reach forty years as a psychotherapist. I have practiced in the states of Ohio, Arizona, and currently in Illinois. I have worked with a wide range client population. My six specialties include adolescent and adult substance abuse, anger management, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and stress management. Other areas include all those stated in this profile. Moreover, I provide individual, couples counseling, family therapy, and group therapy. Making the decision to get counseling, can be a very anxiety provoking situation. Actually, taking the step to get counseling is an enormous strength!
(847) 331-7292 View (847) 331-7292
Photo of Olga Konyakova, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Riverwoods, IL
Olga Konyakova
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, CADC
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015  (Online Only)
Do you feel trapped? Are you stuck in survival mode? You might be burning out, drowning in tasks, having difficulty speaking up for yourself or setting boundaries, growing resentful of your boss, family or partner, and abandoning your self care. Relying on substance use or other addictive behaviors to keep going or just keep your head above water? All you want is some silence, calm, and peace, but life keeps cycling in chaos.
Do you feel trapped? Are you stuck in survival mode? You might be burning out, drowning in tasks, having difficulty speaking up for yourself or setting boundaries, growing resentful of your boss, family or partner, and abandoning your self care. Relying on substance use or other addictive behaviors to keep going or just keep your head above water? All you want is some silence, calm, and peace, but life keeps cycling in chaos.
(847) 220-7825 View (847) 220-7825
Photo of EJ Tolle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Riverwoods, IL
EJ Tolle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
It is my intention to help clients effectively manage symptoms associated with relationship issues, anxiety, addiction, depression, codependency & eating disorders.
When life gets too challenging, I'm here to help lighten your load . As a therapist for 25+ years, I have learned that relationships & connection to others is the basis for all healing. People can successfully move through their pain & disappointments by the simple act of talking to another person & being heard. I am dedicated to helping clients make changes which will enable them to fully enjoy their personal & professional lives. Finding a therapist that you connect with is essential. I offer a safe & supportive environment where we can work together to explore your challenges & determine what changes you would like to achieve.
It is my intention to help clients effectively manage symptoms associated with relationship issues, anxiety, addiction, depression, codependency & eating disorders.
When life gets too challenging, I'm here to help lighten your load . As a therapist for 25+ years, I have learned that relationships & connection to others is the basis for all healing. People can successfully move through their pain & disappointments by the simple act of talking to another person & being heard. I am dedicated to helping clients make changes which will enable them to fully enjoy their personal & professional lives. Finding a therapist that you connect with is essential. I offer a safe & supportive environment where we can work together to explore your challenges & determine what changes you would like to achieve.
(224) 204-0910 View (224) 204-0910

See more therapy options for Riverwoods

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.