Photo of Campbell Swift, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Campbell Swift
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109
Campbell Swift is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who has worked in the field of mental health since 2013. Over these years, Campbell has gained valuable experience helping adolescents and adults overcome obstacles both internal and external. At the present, Campbell's strengths as a therapist lend themselves to assisting adolescents and adults living with depression and anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorders, histories of trauma, addiction and substance use disorders, and personality disorders.
Campbell Swift is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who has worked in the field of mental health since 2013. Over these years, Campbell has gained valuable experience helping adolescents and adults overcome obstacles both internal and external. At the present, Campbell's strengths as a therapist lend themselves to assisting adolescents and adults living with depression and anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorders, histories of trauma, addiction and substance use disorders, and personality disorders.
(857) 466-1128 View (857) 466-1128
Photo of Caryl Brayton Toole, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Boston, MA
Caryl Brayton Toole
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC, NCAC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110
Successful addiction treatment isn’t just about stopping the use of the substance; it also includes addressing the underlying issues, gaining insight into behaviors and implementing proven strategies to develop a better sense of worth and control.
***Accepting New Clients for online Tele-Health.*** Are you experiencing anxiety or worry that gets in the way of work, relationships or friendships? Are you unable to let go of painful memories or feelings related to a traumatic experience? Are you coping with stress with alcohol and prescription medications? Do you feel worried and conflicted about your drinking? Drug and alcohol concerns are often a result of deeper struggles such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma and obstacles in daily life.
Successful addiction treatment isn’t just about stopping the use of the substance; it also includes addressing the underlying issues, gaining insight into behaviors and implementing proven strategies to develop a better sense of worth and control.
***Accepting New Clients for online Tele-Health.*** Are you experiencing anxiety or worry that gets in the way of work, relationships or friendships? Are you unable to let go of painful memories or feelings related to a traumatic experience? Are you coping with stress with alcohol and prescription medications? Do you feel worried and conflicted about your drinking? Drug and alcohol concerns are often a result of deeper struggles such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma and obstacles in daily life.
(781) 635-4886 View (781) 635-4886
Photo of Solomon Zinn Hallal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Solomon Zinn Hallal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
Being alive in 2022 is wild! are you ISO someone to help make meaning of this novel time and place? let’s sit in the strangeness of this moment in time together, feeling through the sad and challenging bits until we can get back into the present, together. i love to talk and hear about gender, expression and relationships, and to learn how experiencing addiction and trauma have made you the beautiful and resilient creature you are today! im a sober body posi fat white southern queer non-binary intersectional feminist polyamorist parent to adopted kids..i bet we have something in common!
Being alive in 2022 is wild! are you ISO someone to help make meaning of this novel time and place? let’s sit in the strangeness of this moment in time together, feeling through the sad and challenging bits until we can get back into the present, together. i love to talk and hear about gender, expression and relationships, and to learn how experiencing addiction and trauma have made you the beautiful and resilient creature you are today! im a sober body posi fat white southern queer non-binary intersectional feminist polyamorist parent to adopted kids..i bet we have something in common!
(802) 255-8683 View (802) 255-8683
Photo of Kelly Broderick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Kelly Broderick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSCJ, MSW, LICSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
My specialties include addiction, anxiety, depression, codependency, family conflict, communication, grief and loss and forensic therapeutic work.
One of the most important things you can do is start the journey to understanding and living your own truth. This is a guiding force in my practice. My name is Kelly Broderick and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in Massachusetts and a Licensed Independent Social Worker - Clinical Practice (LISW-CP) in South Carolina. I have over ten years of experience working with individuals and groups in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings. I have significant experience from my forensic background, working in specialized prisons and outpatient work with vulnerable populations.
My specialties include addiction, anxiety, depression, codependency, family conflict, communication, grief and loss and forensic therapeutic work.
One of the most important things you can do is start the journey to understanding and living your own truth. This is a guiding force in my practice. My name is Kelly Broderick and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in Massachusetts and a Licensed Independent Social Worker - Clinical Practice (LISW-CP) in South Carolina. I have over ten years of experience working with individuals and groups in both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings. I have significant experience from my forensic background, working in specialized prisons and outpatient work with vulnerable populations.
(617) 336-8492 View (617) 336-8492
Photo of Miriam Ervin, Counselor in Boston, MA
Miriam Ervin
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with experience in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, as well as relationship and family issues. I believe that when self-awareness is paired with motivation for healthy action, individuals and families can realize their fullest potential. My approach focuses on achieving this insight and motivation through establishing trust, building positive self esteem, and teaching healthy skills for coping. I have a holistic perspective and treatment approach, and believe that all elements of health and wellness need to be addressed in order to experience balance and a fulfilling life.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with experience in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, as well as relationship and family issues. I believe that when self-awareness is paired with motivation for healthy action, individuals and families can realize their fullest potential. My approach focuses on achieving this insight and motivation through establishing trust, building positive self esteem, and teaching healthy skills for coping. I have a holistic perspective and treatment approach, and believe that all elements of health and wellness need to be addressed in order to experience balance and a fulfilling life.
(617) 658-4305 View (617) 658-4305
Photo of Ronda Jones D Tobey, Counselor in Boston, MA
Ronda Jones D Tobey
Counselor, LHMC, LCSW, LADC, CADC, SAP
Not Verified Not Verified
Boston, MA 02101
Ronda D Jones Tobey, LMHC, LADC, CADC, SAP, MAC specializes in Individual and Family metal health and addiction counseling including drug, alcohol and gaming addiction.
Ronda D Jones Tobey, LMHC, LADC, CADC, SAP, MAC believes in a Healthy Person/Family not just the basic therapy.
Ronda D Jones Tobey, LMHC, LADC, CADC, SAP, MAC specializes in Individual and Family metal health and addiction counseling including drug, alcohol and gaming addiction.
Ronda D Jones Tobey, LMHC, LADC, CADC, SAP, MAC believes in a Healthy Person/Family not just the basic therapy.
(401) 415-6282 View (401) 415-6282
Photo of Evan Margetson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Evan Margetson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109
I have 20 years of experience as a clinical social worker and prior to that was a home-based family counselor. I view my role as helping the person clarify troubling life experiences, past and present, and to understand their responses to those experiences. These may include: difficult relationships and families, unresolvable ambiguity; agonies of adolescence; substance and alcohol abuse, or legacies of trauma and existential dilemmas. I believe each person contains the seeds of their own solution and I work to nurture that individual solution. This happens in a relationship where it becomes safe to "say anything."
I have 20 years of experience as a clinical social worker and prior to that was a home-based family counselor. I view my role as helping the person clarify troubling life experiences, past and present, and to understand their responses to those experiences. These may include: difficult relationships and families, unresolvable ambiguity; agonies of adolescence; substance and alcohol abuse, or legacies of trauma and existential dilemmas. I believe each person contains the seeds of their own solution and I work to nurture that individual solution. This happens in a relationship where it becomes safe to "say anything."
(978) 286-8966 View (978) 286-8966
Photo of Dr. Michael Stokes Certified Sex Therapist, Counselor in Boston, MA
Dr. Michael Stokes Certified Sex Therapist
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
Do you find yourself wanting more our of your sex life? Perhaps greater intimacy with your partner(s)? I am a sex therapist who works with folx of all genders and sexual orientations. I can treat porn addiction, sex addiction, sexual dysfunctions, and other types of sexual intimacy difficulties. Let's face it, finding a therapist who can connect with can be a daunting process. You want someone who is easy to talk to, knowledgeable, and someone you can trust. I have worked with thousands of clients who are looking to improve their sex life and increase intimacy within their relationships.
Do you find yourself wanting more our of your sex life? Perhaps greater intimacy with your partner(s)? I am a sex therapist who works with folx of all genders and sexual orientations. I can treat porn addiction, sex addiction, sexual dysfunctions, and other types of sexual intimacy difficulties. Let's face it, finding a therapist who can connect with can be a daunting process. You want someone who is easy to talk to, knowledgeable, and someone you can trust. I have worked with thousands of clients who are looking to improve their sex life and increase intimacy within their relationships.
(508) 286-7944 View (508) 286-7944
Photo of Jessica Hanson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Boston, MA
Jessica Hanson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LADC1
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In my practice, I strive to provide a nurturing and accepting environment where clients have autonomy and feel safe to express themselves without judgment. I utilize techniques that empower and cultivate hope. Much of my experience is working with trauma and addictive patterns of behavior, substance abuse and eating disorders, as well as anxiety and depression. I utilize motivational interviewing techniques in conjunction with CBT to uncover and change unhealthy patterns of thinking and behavior. It is often the lies we believe about ourselves and situations that keep us stuck and prevent progress.
In my practice, I strive to provide a nurturing and accepting environment where clients have autonomy and feel safe to express themselves without judgment. I utilize techniques that empower and cultivate hope. Much of my experience is working with trauma and addictive patterns of behavior, substance abuse and eating disorders, as well as anxiety and depression. I utilize motivational interviewing techniques in conjunction with CBT to uncover and change unhealthy patterns of thinking and behavior. It is often the lies we believe about ourselves and situations that keep us stuck and prevent progress.
(508) 484-8379 View (508) 484-8379
Photo of Bruce Proc, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Boston, MA
Bruce Proc
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, MLS, MTS
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02135
With a master’s degree in Addiction Counseling, Leadership, and Theological Studies, Bruce is equipped to assist individuals in renewing their capacity to become contributing members of society. Bruce currently holds one license and one certification: he is an independent level LADC practitioner with a state certification in problematic gambling (MA PGS).
With a master’s degree in Addiction Counseling, Leadership, and Theological Studies, Bruce is equipped to assist individuals in renewing their capacity to become contributing members of society. Bruce currently holds one license and one certification: he is an independent level LADC practitioner with a state certification in problematic gambling (MA PGS).
(781) 625-9493 View (781) 625-9493
Photo of Siobhan Flanagan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Siobhan Flanagan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02127
Waitlist for new clients
Whether this pattern is an addictive process or substance, difficulty with relationships or intimacy, family conflict, habitual anger, or free-floating existential angst, psychotherapy can help identify the root causes of distress and facilitate the process of change.
“The first step towards getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are.”--Unknown The decision to seek help is one that is often arrived at after long periods of suffering. We so often cling to what is familiar, even when what is familiar is causing us and those around us tremendous pain. We go to great lengths to avoid coming face to face with our vulnerability, and unknowingly prolong our suffering despite our best efforts to master it. For many of us, we simply do what we know, choosing the familiarity of pain over the inherently fear-inducing path of change. Simply stated--change is hard. While change is inevitably challenging, it does not have to be undertaken alone. Finding a qualified therapist to support you through this process can make a significant difference in both the outcome and the process.
Whether this pattern is an addictive process or substance, difficulty with relationships or intimacy, family conflict, habitual anger, or free-floating existential angst, psychotherapy can help identify the root causes of distress and facilitate the process of change.
“The first step towards getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are.”--Unknown The decision to seek help is one that is often arrived at after long periods of suffering. We so often cling to what is familiar, even when what is familiar is causing us and those around us tremendous pain. We go to great lengths to avoid coming face to face with our vulnerability, and unknowingly prolong our suffering despite our best efforts to master it. For many of us, we simply do what we know, choosing the familiarity of pain over the inherently fear-inducing path of change. Simply stated--change is hard. While change is inevitably challenging, it does not have to be undertaken alone. Finding a qualified therapist to support you through this process can make a significant difference in both the outcome and the process.
(617) 657-2169 View (617) 657-2169
Photo of Brett Schlossberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Brett Schlossberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02108
Are you or a family member struggling with an addiction, loss, stressful job or other personal concern? As an active and engaging therapist, I have observed that when the chemistry between therapist and client works, the process of therapy can provide a multitude of results: curbing self-destructive patterns of behavior, providing relief from painful emotions, increasing productivity at work, increasing behavioral control and achieving greater meaning in one's life. I believe that these meaningful changes occur when there is a joint process of discovery in which the therapist attends to the expressed needs and goals of the client.
Are you or a family member struggling with an addiction, loss, stressful job or other personal concern? As an active and engaging therapist, I have observed that when the chemistry between therapist and client works, the process of therapy can provide a multitude of results: curbing self-destructive patterns of behavior, providing relief from painful emotions, increasing productivity at work, increasing behavioral control and achieving greater meaning in one's life. I believe that these meaningful changes occur when there is a joint process of discovery in which the therapist attends to the expressed needs and goals of the client.
(617) 612-5933 View (617) 612-5933
Photo of Inspire Recovery, Registered Social Worker Intern in Boston, MA
Inspire Recovery
Registered Social Worker Intern, MSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Boston, MA 02130
I offer LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy for substance use issues and mental health issues.
Jaki Neering, MSW, takes a loving & progressive approach when working with the LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual + community. She graduated from Barry University in 2016 with a Master in Social Work. Jaki believes in the power of trauma-informed interventions, which recognizes human vulnerability but focuses on finding strengths, resources, and capacity for healing and recovery, by promoting factors that will enhance a person's resilience. She has a passion for empowering marginalized populations, and she is devoted to serving the LGBTQIA+ population suffering with alcoholism, drug addiction & mental health issues. Jaki assists individuals in finding their voice, and advocates for self-expression. Additionally, Jaki believes in the transformation of recovery, and is passionate about helping others find their truth.
I offer LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy for substance use issues and mental health issues.
Jaki Neering, MSW, takes a loving & progressive approach when working with the LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual + community. She graduated from Barry University in 2016 with a Master in Social Work. Jaki believes in the power of trauma-informed interventions, which recognizes human vulnerability but focuses on finding strengths, resources, and capacity for healing and recovery, by promoting factors that will enhance a person's resilience. She has a passion for empowering marginalized populations, and she is devoted to serving the LGBTQIA+ population suffering with alcoholism, drug addiction & mental health issues. Jaki assists individuals in finding their voice, and advocates for self-expression. Additionally, Jaki believes in the transformation of recovery, and is passionate about helping others find their truth.
(561) 475-4729 View (561) 475-4729
Photo of Lyndsay Coombs, Counselor in Boston, MA
Lyndsay Coombs
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02101  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing personalized care tailored to each client's unique needs, whether they are struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, relationship issues, or life transitions.
As a compassionate therapist, I am dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals to explore their emotions, navigate life's challenges, and foster personal growth. With a client-centered approach, I strive to cultivate a trusting therapeutic relationship where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to make positive changes in their lives. Utilizing evidence-based techniques and a holistic perspective, I aim to help clients uncover their strengths, develop coping skills, and achieve greater self-awareness and fulfillment. Together, we embark on a journey of healing and transformation!
I specialize in providing personalized care tailored to each client's unique needs, whether they are struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, relationship issues, or life transitions.
As a compassionate therapist, I am dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals to explore their emotions, navigate life's challenges, and foster personal growth. With a client-centered approach, I strive to cultivate a trusting therapeutic relationship where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to make positive changes in their lives. Utilizing evidence-based techniques and a holistic perspective, I aim to help clients uncover their strengths, develop coping skills, and achieve greater self-awareness and fulfillment. Together, we embark on a journey of healing and transformation!
(339) 220-2807 View (339) 220-2807
Photo of Nicole Costa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Nicole Costa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02104
If you or a loved one is seeking treatment for substance abuse and dual diagnosis treatment please reach out! .
Nicole obtained her Master’s in Social Work from Boston College and is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW). Prior to joining Recovering Champions, she served as the Executive Director at Spectrum Health Systems in Westboro, MA, where she managed and oversaw the operations of eight inpatient substance abuse treatment programs in Massachusetts.
If you or a loved one is seeking treatment for substance abuse and dual diagnosis treatment please reach out! .
Nicole obtained her Master’s in Social Work from Boston College and is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW). Prior to joining Recovering Champions, she served as the Executive Director at Spectrum Health Systems in Westboro, MA, where she managed and oversaw the operations of eight inpatient substance abuse treatment programs in Massachusetts.
(978) 386-9673 View (978) 386-9673
Photo of Lisa A Sullivan, Counselor in Boston, MA
Lisa A Sullivan
Counselor, MA, CAGS, LMHC, CBIS
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02101
I am a clinical therapist licensed in Massachusetts for 26 years as a clinical psychotherapist. I provide telehealth and in person therapy. I work with clients with a wide range of concerns including Trauma, Anxiety. Addiction, developmental disability, Autism, Depression, PTSD, ADHD, anger management, Parenting skills, OCD, Brain Injury, Children and Adolescents Therapy, Behavioral Management, Substance abuse, Dysmorphia and couple's therapy. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse.
I am a clinical therapist licensed in Massachusetts for 26 years as a clinical psychotherapist. I provide telehealth and in person therapy. I work with clients with a wide range of concerns including Trauma, Anxiety. Addiction, developmental disability, Autism, Depression, PTSD, ADHD, anger management, Parenting skills, OCD, Brain Injury, Children and Adolescents Therapy, Behavioral Management, Substance abuse, Dysmorphia and couple's therapy. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse.
(508) 388-5709 View (508) 388-5709
Photo of Summer Doran, Counselor in Boston, MA
Summer Doran
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02101
GH Recovery Solutions is a private drug and alcohol rehab providing intervention and treatment services to those suffering from substance use, and individuals with co-occurring mental health issues. We provide individualized treatment in a small, gender-specific environment. Also, GH Recovery offers one of the only comprehensive vocational programs in New England. At GH Recovery, evidence-based practice is applied along with creative and cutting-edge interventions. We provide extraordinary individualized care and enable our clients to gain insight into their underlying factors driving addictive behaviors and unhealthy coping skills.
GH Recovery Solutions is a private drug and alcohol rehab providing intervention and treatment services to those suffering from substance use, and individuals with co-occurring mental health issues. We provide individualized treatment in a small, gender-specific environment. Also, GH Recovery offers one of the only comprehensive vocational programs in New England. At GH Recovery, evidence-based practice is applied along with creative and cutting-edge interventions. We provide extraordinary individualized care and enable our clients to gain insight into their underlying factors driving addictive behaviors and unhealthy coping skills.
(603) 931-4078 View (603) 931-4078
Photo of danielle delloiacono, Art Therapist in Boston, MA
danielle delloiacono
Art Therapist, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02101  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, unexpected life events, or addiction? Let me guide you with my open-minded approach, whether you prefer talk therapy or using the art therapy approach, it's up to you. I have over a decade of experience working in the mental health field. We can work together on healthy coping skills, improving boundaries, processing grief, and learning ways to express yourself in these unsettling times. When attending session you can gain a stronger self-esteem, self-worth, and healthy communication skills. Online sessions only.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, unexpected life events, or addiction? Let me guide you with my open-minded approach, whether you prefer talk therapy or using the art therapy approach, it's up to you. I have over a decade of experience working in the mental health field. We can work together on healthy coping skills, improving boundaries, processing grief, and learning ways to express yourself in these unsettling times. When attending session you can gain a stronger self-esteem, self-worth, and healthy communication skills. Online sessions only.
(978) 619-8620 View (978) 619-8620
Photo of " The Hope Carrier", Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Boston, MA
" The Hope Carrier"
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LMHC-A, CAGS, LADC I, LCDP, CADC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02103
Recovery, Hopes & Dreams helps you define and take a clear path to a happier, healthier life. RHD offers person-centered, quality addiction treatment services in a supportive environment, through individualized goal- driven treatment. The philosophy is based on the understanding that addiction is a disease that affects the entire person: encompassing the body, mind, and spirit. Because of this, treatment must be individualized and must address all of these areas to be successful in the recovery of the whole person. You can relax with us. We’ve seen it all and have helped people get through it
Recovery, Hopes & Dreams helps you define and take a clear path to a happier, healthier life. RHD offers person-centered, quality addiction treatment services in a supportive environment, through individualized goal- driven treatment. The philosophy is based on the understanding that addiction is a disease that affects the entire person: encompassing the body, mind, and spirit. Because of this, treatment must be individualized and must address all of these areas to be successful in the recovery of the whole person. You can relax with us. We’ve seen it all and have helped people get through it
(508) 252-8834 View (508) 252-8834
Photo of Lisa M Dagnello, Counselor in Boston, MA
Lisa M Dagnello
Counselor, LMHC, LADC1
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02137  (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients age 18 and older. I am a licensed addiction counselor and a licensed mental health clinician. I work with individuals who suffer from anxiety, depression, trauma related disorders, eating disorders and many other mental health and substance use disorders. I believe in person-centered care and will work with a client to reach goals related to interpersonal relationships along with treating the disorder.
I am accepting new clients age 18 and older. I am a licensed addiction counselor and a licensed mental health clinician. I work with individuals who suffer from anxiety, depression, trauma related disorders, eating disorders and many other mental health and substance use disorders. I believe in person-centered care and will work with a client to reach goals related to interpersonal relationships along with treating the disorder.
(508) 779-5694 View (508) 779-5694
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.