Addiction Therapists in Sangamon County, IL
Hillary LaMontagne
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
Hillary understands the challenges that those dealing with mental health and substance abuse issues face, and is here to help each client navigate them in a warm and nurturing environment.
Hillary has over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and offers therapy for individuals ages 13 and up dealing with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, OCD, and personality disorders. Hillary enjoys working with individuals who have experienced grief and loss through death and divorce, are healing from trauma, moms dealing with postpartum depression, and the LGBTQ community. Her specialty areas include substance abuse recovery and transgender transitions. She offers animal-assisted therapy with her dog, Holly, to create a relaxed and comforting environment during sessions.
Hillary understands the challenges that those dealing with mental health and substance abuse issues face, and is here to help each client navigate them in a warm and nurturing environment.
Hillary has over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and offers therapy for individuals ages 13 and up dealing with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, OCD, and personality disorders. Hillary enjoys working with individuals who have experienced grief and loss through death and divorce, are healing from trauma, moms dealing with postpartum depression, and the LGBTQ community. Her specialty areas include substance abuse recovery and transgender transitions. She offers animal-assisted therapy with her dog, Holly, to create a relaxed and comforting environment during sessions.
Dr. Oluwatamilore 'tami' Odimayo
Counselor, PsyD, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
I specialize in working with addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, divorce/breakups and difficult life transitions.
Dr. Tamilore Odimayo is the author of the best-selling self-help book, How to be a Mental Health Savage. He is an avid mental health advocate who aims to reduce mental health stigma globally. He focuses on a holistic approach to mental health improvement through intellectual stimulation, relationship restructuring, diet restructuring, and exercise. His extensive experience includes working with acute trauma care and counseling co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance abuse). “Wellness requires a safe space to process what’s needed to achieve a social, physical, spiritual, financial & mental balance."
I specialize in working with addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, divorce/breakups and difficult life transitions.
Dr. Tamilore Odimayo is the author of the best-selling self-help book, How to be a Mental Health Savage. He is an avid mental health advocate who aims to reduce mental health stigma globally. He focuses on a holistic approach to mental health improvement through intellectual stimulation, relationship restructuring, diet restructuring, and exercise. His extensive experience includes working with acute trauma care and counseling co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance abuse). “Wellness requires a safe space to process what’s needed to achieve a social, physical, spiritual, financial & mental balance."
Kristin Smith
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, MA
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
Kristin Smith is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. She received her Master's Degree in Counseling from Lincoln Christian University. She has a wide range of clinical experience working with individuals, children, teens, and families experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, anger management, PTSD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance abuse), life changes and transitions, relationships, grief and loss, and substance abuse/ addictions. Ms. Smith has worked in outpatient and residential settings both at Memorial and SIU.
Kristin Smith is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. She received her Master's Degree in Counseling from Lincoln Christian University. She has a wide range of clinical experience working with individuals, children, teens, and families experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, anger management, PTSD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance abuse), life changes and transitions, relationships, grief and loss, and substance abuse/ addictions. Ms. Smith has worked in outpatient and residential settings both at Memorial and SIU.
Julie Tucker-Ponder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, MAATP
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
I am the co-president of a Psychiatric Assoc. Of Central Illinois and the founder of Pastures of Hope and J. Ponder Counseling & Coaching. I have been an LCSW and a certified addiction counselor in Illinois for over 27 years. Most recently, I have earned my certification as a life coach and am the behavioral specialist at Losin’ It with Sonya Jones.
I am the co-president of a Psychiatric Assoc. Of Central Illinois and the founder of Pastures of Hope and J. Ponder Counseling & Coaching. I have been an LCSW and a certified addiction counselor in Illinois for over 27 years. Most recently, I have earned my certification as a life coach and am the behavioral specialist at Losin’ It with Sonya Jones.
Oluwatamilore Odimayo
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
My extensive experience includes working with acute trauma care and counseling co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance abuse).
Do you struggle with figuring out the aspects of your life that serve you and the aspects of your life you need to break up with? Do you struggle with identifying ways to deal with sources of depression and anxiety? Are you trying to figure out ways to live a happier and more content life aligned with your most authentic self? Now, more than ever, most people report feeling disconnected from their jobs, romantic relationships, familial relationships, and lives. Sometimes, the mind and body’s way of telling us that something needs to change is discomfort, which is our instinct’s way of sending an alert signal.
My extensive experience includes working with acute trauma care and counseling co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance abuse).
Do you struggle with figuring out the aspects of your life that serve you and the aspects of your life you need to break up with? Do you struggle with identifying ways to deal with sources of depression and anxiety? Are you trying to figure out ways to live a happier and more content life aligned with your most authentic self? Now, more than ever, most people report feeling disconnected from their jobs, romantic relationships, familial relationships, and lives. Sometimes, the mind and body’s way of telling us that something needs to change is discomfort, which is our instinct’s way of sending an alert signal.
David Bova
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711 (Online Only)
David is highly skilled in addressing mental health and substance abuse issues and focuses on finding solutions, breaking down problems into themes, and helping patients understand themselves at a deeper level by first and foremost being genuine and empathic.
David Bova, LCPC, NCC, works with adolescents and adults on a wide variety of issues. He is passionate, enthusiastic, always supportive of patients working through difficult decisions, and gives guidance towards long-term change. He believes that the journey starts with where the patient is at and that there is no such thing as slow progress. David recognizes how developing new skills and philosophies about the self can have profound effects on the rest of one’s life. He believes that therapy should be flexible and emphasizes the therapeutic alliance above all else.
David is highly skilled in addressing mental health and substance abuse issues and focuses on finding solutions, breaking down problems into themes, and helping patients understand themselves at a deeper level by first and foremost being genuine and empathic.
David Bova, LCPC, NCC, works with adolescents and adults on a wide variety of issues. He is passionate, enthusiastic, always supportive of patients working through difficult decisions, and gives guidance towards long-term change. He believes that the journey starts with where the patient is at and that there is no such thing as slow progress. David recognizes how developing new skills and philosophies about the self can have profound effects on the rest of one’s life. He believes that therapy should be flexible and emphasizes the therapeutic alliance above all else.
Victoria Kamhi
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
My areas of expertise include: anxiety, test anxiety, panic disorder, stress management, depression, bipolar disorder, substance use, anger management, chronic illness, grief and loss, and life adjustment issues.
Hi – I’m Vicki – thank you for taking the time to look at my bio. No matter what you’re going through right now, please know that there is more right with you than there is wrong. I can help you: build on the strengths you already have (you have more than you think!), let go of unhelpful thoughts and behaviors that no longer serve you, and find a path to create a life full of wellness, personal growth, joy and meaning. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Certified Alcohol/Other Drug Counselor (CADC) with over 15 years of counseling experience.
My areas of expertise include: anxiety, test anxiety, panic disorder, stress management, depression, bipolar disorder, substance use, anger management, chronic illness, grief and loss, and life adjustment issues.
Hi – I’m Vicki – thank you for taking the time to look at my bio. No matter what you’re going through right now, please know that there is more right with you than there is wrong. I can help you: build on the strengths you already have (you have more than you think!), let go of unhelpful thoughts and behaviors that no longer serve you, and find a path to create a life full of wellness, personal growth, joy and meaning. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Certified Alcohol/Other Drug Counselor (CADC) with over 15 years of counseling experience.
Angela Jones-Acosta
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, CACD, CODP II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62701 (Online Only)
I have over 15 years of experience and specialize in working with adults and couples; assisting those struggling with depressed, anxious, or angry moods; trauma histories; relational conflict; impulsive behaviors; life stressors; and addiction.
Do you find yourself struggling with painful and overpowering emotions, hurtful beliefs about yourself, regrets about the past, or difficulty controlling behaviors you want to stop? If so, there is hope. Whether you're seeking support to heal from past traumas, manage overwhelming anxiety and depression, boost your self-esteem, or navigate life's transitions, I am here to guide you. I work to provide a safe, empathetic, and collaborative space. We can explore your experiences, cultivate coping strategies, and work towards building a more resilient and fulfilling future.
I have over 15 years of experience and specialize in working with adults and couples; assisting those struggling with depressed, anxious, or angry moods; trauma histories; relational conflict; impulsive behaviors; life stressors; and addiction.
Do you find yourself struggling with painful and overpowering emotions, hurtful beliefs about yourself, regrets about the past, or difficulty controlling behaviors you want to stop? If so, there is hope. Whether you're seeking support to heal from past traumas, manage overwhelming anxiety and depression, boost your self-esteem, or navigate life's transitions, I am here to guide you. I work to provide a safe, empathetic, and collaborative space. We can explore your experiences, cultivate coping strategies, and work towards building a more resilient and fulfilling future.
Serene Counseling Services
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704 (Online Only)
Do you need tools or strategies to cope with your daily life? I provide affirmative care to Autism/ADHD, chronic pain, anxiety disorders, depression, trauma and addiction.
Do you need a safe space to explore who you are and what you need? As a therapist with lived experience, I create a safe and nurturing space where individuals can explore their issues and develop insights and self-acceptance. My background in teaching yoga and training in integrative mental health treatment enriched my understanding of the the intricate interplay between physical, spiritual, and mental well-being. My therapeutic approach is rooted in non-judgmental observation and compassionate curiosity.
Do you need tools or strategies to cope with your daily life? I provide affirmative care to Autism/ADHD, chronic pain, anxiety disorders, depression, trauma and addiction.
Do you need a safe space to explore who you are and what you need? As a therapist with lived experience, I create a safe and nurturing space where individuals can explore their issues and develop insights and self-acceptance. My background in teaching yoga and training in integrative mental health treatment enriched my understanding of the the intricate interplay between physical, spiritual, and mental well-being. My therapeutic approach is rooted in non-judgmental observation and compassionate curiosity.
Sandy Vicari
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, CSAT, PATP
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
I am Certified in Sexual Addiction.
I have 25 years experience in clinical therapy. I have been a professor in this field for 40 years. I believe therapy is a school to learn about oneself. It is not about judgment but more about resolving the blockage to one's growth either emotionally, spiritually, mentally or physically. I try to provide a comfortable setting for everyone to share their story. I consider it an honor to participate in this process.
I am Certified in Sexual Addiction.
I have 25 years experience in clinical therapy. I have been a professor in this field for 40 years. I believe therapy is a school to learn about oneself. It is not about judgment but more about resolving the blockage to one's growth either emotionally, spiritually, mentally or physically. I try to provide a comfortable setting for everyone to share their story. I consider it an honor to participate in this process.
Tiphanie May
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
I have over 20 years experience and I am licensed to serve people with Mental Health and Substance Use concerns. In addition to traditional, in-office and online therapy, I am also certified in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and provide this service at a private equine facility in Rochester, IL. Clients can communicate with me confidentially, and schedule, cancel or change appointments through my secure, HIPAA compliant website.
I have over 20 years experience and I am licensed to serve people with Mental Health and Substance Use concerns. In addition to traditional, in-office and online therapy, I am also certified in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and provide this service at a private equine facility in Rochester, IL. Clients can communicate with me confidentially, and schedule, cancel or change appointments through my secure, HIPAA compliant website.
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Janson Shehorn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
Janson Shehorn, LPC, NCC, is a genuine, caring, and enthusiastic individual. He has spent many years working with young people, from early elementary age to college age, in a variety of professional settings. He has a passion for making the most of every moment and helping others to reach a similar point of view. He aims to cultivate a positive working relationship during the counseling process. Janson encourages his clients to develop new skills and to self-reflect to foster long lasting change within their lives. Janson works with adolescents and adults struggling with depression, addiction, anxiety, grief and more.
Janson Shehorn, LPC, NCC, is a genuine, caring, and enthusiastic individual. He has spent many years working with young people, from early elementary age to college age, in a variety of professional settings. He has a passion for making the most of every moment and helping others to reach a similar point of view. He aims to cultivate a positive working relationship during the counseling process. Janson encourages his clients to develop new skills and to self-reflect to foster long lasting change within their lives. Janson works with adolescents and adults struggling with depression, addiction, anxiety, grief and more.
Personal Counseling Services - Vicki Vandeveer, MA
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LCPC, CADC, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
People sometimes need help. Stress/anxiety, depression, grief/loss, health problems, substance abuse, traumatic events, difficult relationships or family problems can interfere with a persons health & happiness. Since 1991, Vicki Vandeveer and staff have had the privilege to work with many people who were looking for answers to the difficulties in their lives. The agency mission is simple: We work with you to develop your goals and identify next steps to achieve them. PCS is dedicated to providing professional counseling services to assist individuals, families and groups in improving their lives "one step at a time."
People sometimes need help. Stress/anxiety, depression, grief/loss, health problems, substance abuse, traumatic events, difficult relationships or family problems can interfere with a persons health & happiness. Since 1991, Vicki Vandeveer and staff have had the privilege to work with many people who were looking for answers to the difficulties in their lives. The agency mission is simple: We work with you to develop your goals and identify next steps to achieve them. PCS is dedicated to providing professional counseling services to assist individuals, families and groups in improving their lives "one step at a time."
Chelsie Miller
Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
Chelsie works with a wide range of areas that includes working with the following issues: depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, self-esteem, relationship issues, stress management, life transitions, developmental issues, OCD, ADHD, Autism, communication issues, grief/loss, anger management, school related issues, Bipolar, substance use, LGBTQ.
She believes in establishing a secure, trusting, respectful space with individuals to guide them in exploring, gaining tools, strategies, and motivation for reaching goals and living a more fulfilling life. She hopes to continue helping others see their value and strengths in a non-judgmental environment. Her clinical experience in education has primarily been focused on working with children, adolescents and their families from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Chelsie also works with adults with emphasis on health and overall wellness in one's life in group practice. www.behaviorahealth.center
Chelsie works with a wide range of areas that includes working with the following issues: depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, self-esteem, relationship issues, stress management, life transitions, developmental issues, OCD, ADHD, Autism, communication issues, grief/loss, anger management, school related issues, Bipolar, substance use, LGBTQ.
She believes in establishing a secure, trusting, respectful space with individuals to guide them in exploring, gaining tools, strategies, and motivation for reaching goals and living a more fulfilling life. She hopes to continue helping others see their value and strengths in a non-judgmental environment. Her clinical experience in education has primarily been focused on working with children, adolescents and their families from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Chelsie also works with adults with emphasis on health and overall wellness in one's life in group practice. www.behaviorahealth.center
Brittany Helmich- Behavioral Health Center of IL.
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC, MA
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
adolescents, adults, and families experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance use disorders), bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, personality disorders, life changes and transitions, grief and loss, relationships, and anger management.
Brittany Helmich is a LCPC and CADC. She attained her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice from Blackburn College and her Master's Degree in Clinical Adult Psychology from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville. Brittany’s clinical experience ranges from Wells Center, community mental health, both Gateway residential and outpatient substance use disorder treatment, drug court, Memorial psychiatric response team and crisis counseling, and working with service members and their families through the Illinois Army and Air National Guard. Brittany’s therapeutic experience includes working with children,
adolescents, adults, and families experiencing challenges with anxiety, depression, co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance use disorders), bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, personality disorders, life changes and transitions, grief and loss, relationships, and anger management.
Brittany Helmich is a LCPC and CADC. She attained her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice from Blackburn College and her Master's Degree in Clinical Adult Psychology from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville. Brittany’s clinical experience ranges from Wells Center, community mental health, both Gateway residential and outpatient substance use disorder treatment, drug court, Memorial psychiatric response team and crisis counseling, and working with service members and their families through the Illinois Army and Air National Guard. Brittany’s therapeutic experience includes working with children,
Tara Winkler
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults experiencing the following issues and stressors: Depression, Anxiety and Panic Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Bipolar and Mood Disorders, Self-Esteem issues, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Self-injury, Parent/Teen Conflict, ADHD and Oppositional Behaviors, Anger Management Issues, LGBTQ Support Issues, and Substance Abuse.
As a mental health clinician, I consider it an honor to help individuals and their families as they navigate the challenges in their lives. My approach to therapy focuses on highlighting and building on my clients' personal strengths, as we work together to achieve treatment goals and simply feel better. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental environment that encourages emotional exploration, healing, and wellness. I have a holistic approach to therapy, utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy techniques and interventions, with an emphasis on mindfulness, yogic interventions, and positive psychology.
I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults experiencing the following issues and stressors: Depression, Anxiety and Panic Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Bipolar and Mood Disorders, Self-Esteem issues, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Self-injury, Parent/Teen Conflict, ADHD and Oppositional Behaviors, Anger Management Issues, LGBTQ Support Issues, and Substance Abuse.
As a mental health clinician, I consider it an honor to help individuals and their families as they navigate the challenges in their lives. My approach to therapy focuses on highlighting and building on my clients' personal strengths, as we work together to achieve treatment goals and simply feel better. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental environment that encourages emotional exploration, healing, and wellness. I have a holistic approach to therapy, utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy techniques and interventions, with an emphasis on mindfulness, yogic interventions, and positive psychology.
Dr. Eleni Malamis
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who offers professional yet warm and caring help to those struggling with life's challenges. I have devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who offers professional yet warm and caring help to those struggling with life's challenges. I have devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
Tommy Thompson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, NCC, CADC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711
Additional trainings and expertise on substance use counseling, trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety.
Starting a new year can be an exciting and motivational time. Starting the journey of building a new you or changing your life to be more authentic. My counseling approach focuses on helping you better understand you, your life, to find clarity, and purpose. This can help you become more genuine and deepen your relationships with those you care most about. I see couples, families, and individuals with a keen interest in teenagers and those experiencing transitions in their life, especially with grief. I am accepting and welcoming of different spiritual views, gender, gender expression, sexualities, etc.
Additional trainings and expertise on substance use counseling, trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety.
Starting a new year can be an exciting and motivational time. Starting the journey of building a new you or changing your life to be more authentic. My counseling approach focuses on helping you better understand you, your life, to find clarity, and purpose. This can help you become more genuine and deepen your relationships with those you care most about. I see couples, families, and individuals with a keen interest in teenagers and those experiencing transitions in their life, especially with grief. I am accepting and welcoming of different spiritual views, gender, gender expression, sexualities, etc.
Rebecca Marshall
Counselor, LCPC, MA, EMDR
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703 (Online Only)
Telehealth Remote only therapist- I believe that the relationship between the therapist and client is very important. It’s very important to me that I create strong relationships with my clients based on trust and acceptance. I take a holistic approach, as our mental health is as important as our physical health, and they are often related to one another. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and a person-centered approach. I can assist people who have mood disorders, anxiety, grief, trauma, substance abuse, parenting and family conflicts and LGBTQ support. I specialize working with adolescents, adults, & couples
Telehealth Remote only therapist- I believe that the relationship between the therapist and client is very important. It’s very important to me that I create strong relationships with my clients based on trust and acceptance. I take a holistic approach, as our mental health is as important as our physical health, and they are often related to one another. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and a person-centered approach. I can assist people who have mood disorders, anxiety, grief, trauma, substance abuse, parenting and family conflicts and LGBTQ support. I specialize working with adolescents, adults, & couples
Rachael Gardner Purdy
Counselor, LCPC, LICDC, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in multiple areas but have special interests in substance use/abuse disorders, trauma and abuse, LGBTQIA+ issues, and those harmed or hurt by the church, religion, or other various organized groups, and wanting their voice to be heard.
I am passionate about my work and helping individuals gain insight and understanding in their own challenges, strengths, limits, and abilities. As a proponent of holistic healing, I am working toward the use of yoga, yoga for trauma, meditation, and wellness coaching in my practice. My specialties include behavioral and mental health, substance use/abuse/dependence, LGBTQIA+ issues, and trauma with training in EMDR for difficult cases. From experience, I know, regardless of the difficulties in life, there is always a solution/change which can happen to help you find a positive to every situation -even if is not what you thought.
I specialize in multiple areas but have special interests in substance use/abuse disorders, trauma and abuse, LGBTQIA+ issues, and those harmed or hurt by the church, religion, or other various organized groups, and wanting their voice to be heard.
I am passionate about my work and helping individuals gain insight and understanding in their own challenges, strengths, limits, and abilities. As a proponent of holistic healing, I am working toward the use of yoga, yoga for trauma, meditation, and wellness coaching in my practice. My specialties include behavioral and mental health, substance use/abuse/dependence, LGBTQIA+ issues, and trauma with training in EMDR for difficult cases. From experience, I know, regardless of the difficulties in life, there is always a solution/change which can happen to help you find a positive to every situation -even if is not what you thought.
See more therapy options for Sangamon County
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.