Photo of Daniel J Christy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Daniel J Christy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CEAP, SAP
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63122
I am also CEAP (Certified Employee Assistance Professional) certified and SAP (substance abuse professional) certified.
I take a compassionate approach to counseling focusing on your needs and assisting you with attaining your goals. I practice an eclectic approach utilizing various techniques to best fit you. I enjoy helping you find your inner strength and resiliency that can help you overcome life's problems. I have experience working with people to overcome anxiety issues, substance abuse, and work-life balance. If you want to get the most out of life, overcome your difficulties and reframe negative thoughts so that you can see the positive, I would love to help you.
I am also CEAP (Certified Employee Assistance Professional) certified and SAP (substance abuse professional) certified.
I take a compassionate approach to counseling focusing on your needs and assisting you with attaining your goals. I practice an eclectic approach utilizing various techniques to best fit you. I enjoy helping you find your inner strength and resiliency that can help you overcome life's problems. I have experience working with people to overcome anxiety issues, substance abuse, and work-life balance. If you want to get the most out of life, overcome your difficulties and reframe negative thoughts so that you can see the positive, I would love to help you.
(314) 526-3693 View (314) 526-3693
Photo of Stephanie Robertson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Stephanie Robertson
Licensed Professional Counselor, Owner, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chesterfield, MO 63017
We all struggle at one time or another with grief, excessive stress, anxiety, depression and even addiction. As an LPC it is my privilege to walk with my clients through their healing process. You need a place you feel safe and not judged. I specialize in anxiety disorders, trauma, and addiction but work with a range of issues in adolescents and adults. Additionally I am trained in EMDR therapy. I have a passion for helping people find their inner strengths in order to live a happier and healthier life. I am the owner of Inspire Change Counseling and living in AZ full time but have 4 therapists at the Chesterfield office to help.
We all struggle at one time or another with grief, excessive stress, anxiety, depression and even addiction. As an LPC it is my privilege to walk with my clients through their healing process. You need a place you feel safe and not judged. I specialize in anxiety disorders, trauma, and addiction but work with a range of issues in adolescents and adults. Additionally I am trained in EMDR therapy. I have a passion for helping people find their inner strengths in order to live a happier and healthier life. I am the owner of Inspire Change Counseling and living in AZ full time but have 4 therapists at the Chesterfield office to help.
(636) 489-2072 View (636) 489-2072
Photo of Debbie Pullin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Debbie Pullin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63141  (Online Only)
Have you experienced trauma? Do you feel anxious, depressed or out of control? Do you want to make changes but are uncertain about how to go about making those changes? Start feeling better TODAY by starting your healing journey! I specialize in abuse, trauma and those who are actively recovering from addiction. I am passionate about helping you transform your life. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, unwanted thoughts, abuse, an addiction, or going through a sad transition; please know that there is always hope to turn things around. Whatever issues you are facing, I would be honored to work with you!
Have you experienced trauma? Do you feel anxious, depressed or out of control? Do you want to make changes but are uncertain about how to go about making those changes? Start feeling better TODAY by starting your healing journey! I specialize in abuse, trauma and those who are actively recovering from addiction. I am passionate about helping you transform your life. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, unwanted thoughts, abuse, an addiction, or going through a sad transition; please know that there is always hope to turn things around. Whatever issues you are facing, I would be honored to work with you!
(314) 287-5466 View (314) 287-5466
Photo of India Grimes McMillan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Missouri
India Grimes McMillan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
Bridgeton, MO 63044  (Online Only)
Hello! I have a unique background in the social service and healthcare industry. My therapeutic experience is from Lindenwood University, where I received a master's in clinical mental health counseling. I received a master's in management from Fontbonne University, and a bachelor's from UMSL. I have worked with individuals from all walks of life and varying ages, many who are impacted by substance use disorders, PTSD, and physical and emotional abuse. My counseling style focuses on empathetically building trust in a nonjudgemental environment, while motivating individuals to achieve goals we have set together.
Hello! I have a unique background in the social service and healthcare industry. My therapeutic experience is from Lindenwood University, where I received a master's in clinical mental health counseling. I received a master's in management from Fontbonne University, and a bachelor's from UMSL. I have worked with individuals from all walks of life and varying ages, many who are impacted by substance use disorders, PTSD, and physical and emotional abuse. My counseling style focuses on empathetically building trust in a nonjudgemental environment, while motivating individuals to achieve goals we have set together.
(314) 208-3495 View (314) 208-3495
Photo of Nancy Straatmann, Counselor in Missouri
Nancy Straatmann
Counselor, LPC, CRADC
Verified Verified
Washington, MO 63090
If your are in the process of recovery from any time of addiction, I have experience to help you reclaim your life.
My priority is to create a safe environment for you to explore thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Especially during this time of Covid, many people are feeling anxiety, depression or confusion about their next steps; or you may be experiencing grief or loss. We'll work to identify your strengths, discover insights, and find clarity to move toward a greater sense of wellbeing. I focus on empowering clients to make positive changes that lead to healthier lives. My goal is to help you rediscover meaning, joy, and purpose in life.
If your are in the process of recovery from any time of addiction, I have experience to help you reclaim your life.
My priority is to create a safe environment for you to explore thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Especially during this time of Covid, many people are feeling anxiety, depression or confusion about their next steps; or you may be experiencing grief or loss. We'll work to identify your strengths, discover insights, and find clarity to move toward a greater sense of wellbeing. I focus on empowering clients to make positive changes that lead to healthier lives. My goal is to help you rediscover meaning, joy, and purpose in life.
(844) 505-4679 View (844) 505-4679
Photo of 360 Degrees Wellness Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Missouri
360 Degrees Wellness Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC, LCAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64063
Whether a behavioral or substance use disorder, “You Are More Than Your Addiction.
Life must have balance. On your journey to wholeness, we will work together to identify faulty thinking and other obstacles to discover the complete and whole person you were designed to be. Clients experiencing relationship distress (separation, divorce, depression, infidelity, grief) women’s and men’s issues, or social environment concerns, will find a safe environment filled with compassion, support, and hope.
Whether a behavioral or substance use disorder, “You Are More Than Your Addiction.
Life must have balance. On your journey to wholeness, we will work together to identify faulty thinking and other obstacles to discover the complete and whole person you were designed to be. Clients experiencing relationship distress (separation, divorce, depression, infidelity, grief) women’s and men’s issues, or social environment concerns, will find a safe environment filled with compassion, support, and hope.
(816) 239-3527 View (816) 239-3527
Photo of Lindsay C Nichols, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Lindsay C Nichols
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63124
Individuals who experience: Anxiety, depression, addiction, substance abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, grief and loss, low self-esteem, life transition, chronic pain, migraines and anger management, will benefit.
Hello! Are you tired of suffering from emotional and/or physical pain? I can help you in a way that is truly unique and you can see results very quickly. Through my experience I have developed an innate ability to help clients step out of their comfort zone through examination of their external environment from different points of view. I understand that the cornerstone of change is assisting each client with breaking down the walls that surround them to find deeper meaning. My sessions focus on engagement and the therapeutic alliance which leads to effective change. I promise that you will begin noticing changes immediately.
Individuals who experience: Anxiety, depression, addiction, substance abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, grief and loss, low self-esteem, life transition, chronic pain, migraines and anger management, will benefit.
Hello! Are you tired of suffering from emotional and/or physical pain? I can help you in a way that is truly unique and you can see results very quickly. Through my experience I have developed an innate ability to help clients step out of their comfort zone through examination of their external environment from different points of view. I understand that the cornerstone of change is assisting each client with breaking down the walls that surround them to find deeper meaning. My sessions focus on engagement and the therapeutic alliance which leads to effective change. I promise that you will begin noticing changes immediately.
(314) 697-2439 View (314) 697-2439
Photo of Adam Lynch, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Adam Lynch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64153
I have taught state-credentialed classes on substance abuse.
The heart and soul of how I help others is as a counselor who meets clients where they are in life, relationships, struggles, and so on - with the goal of gaining your trust and helping move you through discouraging and challenging circumstances, while sharing in God's reality for your life. I believe in the value of working through personal problems and issues in the context of stronger relationships. I will help you with this on a personal level, and in the process of restoring health and relationships with whomever you are intending to build this restored relationship with.
I have taught state-credentialed classes on substance abuse.
The heart and soul of how I help others is as a counselor who meets clients where they are in life, relationships, struggles, and so on - with the goal of gaining your trust and helping move you through discouraging and challenging circumstances, while sharing in God's reality for your life. I believe in the value of working through personal problems and issues in the context of stronger relationships. I will help you with this on a personal level, and in the process of restoring health and relationships with whomever you are intending to build this restored relationship with.
(816) 307-3814 View (816) 307-3814
Photo of Anne Marie Frost, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Anne Marie Frost
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, MO 65804
Waitlist for new clients
Depression, anxiety and addiction are often compatriots. They feed off each other and create a sense of hopelessness. Your struggle may be with substances (drugs/food), compulsive acts or obsessive thinking. However, they are often slightly different-shaped pieces to the same puzzle. Additionally, if you experienced trauma in your lifetime, you are even more susceptible to these disorders. Gratefully, there is hope and recovery for them! It is often not easy or quick, but it is doable. "God grant me the courage not to give up what I think is right even though I think it is hopeless." -- Chester Nimitz, WWII Fleet Admiral.
Depression, anxiety and addiction are often compatriots. They feed off each other and create a sense of hopelessness. Your struggle may be with substances (drugs/food), compulsive acts or obsessive thinking. However, they are often slightly different-shaped pieces to the same puzzle. Additionally, if you experienced trauma in your lifetime, you are even more susceptible to these disorders. Gratefully, there is hope and recovery for them! It is often not easy or quick, but it is doable. "God grant me the courage not to give up what I think is right even though I think it is hopeless." -- Chester Nimitz, WWII Fleet Admiral.
(417) 409-2253 View (417) 409-2253
Photo of Nancy Jenkins, Pre-Licensed Professional in Missouri
Nancy Jenkins
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CIT
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64063
I can help by listening and providing support, insights, guidance, and skills to help you meet any challenges you may face: family, relationship, or job issues; anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, PTSD, chronic illness, or divorce.
I greet you with acceptance and an open heart. Life can throw surprises or maybe you've hit a roadblock and realize something has to change? Counseling provides a safe and confidential space to share worry, fear, sadness, anger, hopes and dreams, and then learn tools to deal with any challenge in your life. Call me now if you seek a path to the happy and serene life you deserve.
I can help by listening and providing support, insights, guidance, and skills to help you meet any challenges you may face: family, relationship, or job issues; anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, PTSD, chronic illness, or divorce.
I greet you with acceptance and an open heart. Life can throw surprises or maybe you've hit a roadblock and realize something has to change? Counseling provides a safe and confidential space to share worry, fear, sadness, anger, hopes and dreams, and then learn tools to deal with any challenge in your life. Call me now if you seek a path to the happy and serene life you deserve.
(816) 727-3602 View (816) 727-3602
Photo of Tricia L Beach, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Tricia L Beach
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64063
I am honored to hold space for others recovering from depression, anxiety, addiction, and mood dysregulation. Family dysfunction impacted my development and I did not learn effective ways to cope. I am grateful that I sought help and have now been in recovery 35 years. I bring respect, kindness, compassion. and curiosity to your sessions so that I can encourage you on your journey. Through practices of forgiveness, self-compassion, and mindfulness I want to help you grow deeper in your awareness so you can live your life as the spiritual being you are created to be. Take a look at my website to learn more about how I might help you.
I am honored to hold space for others recovering from depression, anxiety, addiction, and mood dysregulation. Family dysfunction impacted my development and I did not learn effective ways to cope. I am grateful that I sought help and have now been in recovery 35 years. I bring respect, kindness, compassion. and curiosity to your sessions so that I can encourage you on your journey. Through practices of forgiveness, self-compassion, and mindfulness I want to help you grow deeper in your awareness so you can live your life as the spiritual being you are created to be. Take a look at my website to learn more about how I might help you.
(816) 355-5945 View (816) 355-5945
Photo of Margaret Gladden, Pastoral Counselor in Missouri
Margaret Gladden
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, LCPC , CRADC , ICADC
Verified Verified
Florissant, MO 63031
All too often, substance abuse and addiction has played a large role in the impairment and breakdown of the family, and its individual members.
I am a licensed clinical pastoral counselor, and, certified alcohol and drug counselor who has a passion for the family. Because the marriage relationship is one of the most important and satisfying relationships we will have, my goal is to help couples to: identify their strengths, and to build new ones; acquire communication and conflict resolution skills; help them to identify stumbling blocks, and then, help them to turn their stumbling blocks into stepping stones. My experience includes forty plus years of marriage and over twenty years of helping couples discover who they are as individuals, and who they are as a couple.
All too often, substance abuse and addiction has played a large role in the impairment and breakdown of the family, and its individual members.
I am a licensed clinical pastoral counselor, and, certified alcohol and drug counselor who has a passion for the family. Because the marriage relationship is one of the most important and satisfying relationships we will have, my goal is to help couples to: identify their strengths, and to build new ones; acquire communication and conflict resolution skills; help them to identify stumbling blocks, and then, help them to turn their stumbling blocks into stepping stones. My experience includes forty plus years of marriage and over twenty years of helping couples discover who they are as individuals, and who they are as a couple.
(314) 282-2986 View (314) 282-2986
Photo of Laila Merz, Psychologist in Missouri
Laila Merz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ladue, MO 63124
Some of my specialty areas are Attachment- Based Issues, Anxiety and Depressive/ Mood Disorders, Addictions/Substance Abuse, Post Traumatic Disorders, Trauma, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Couples Therapy, Divorce, Women's Health Issues, Chronic Pain, Yoga, Somatic based Therapies, and Spirituality.
I went into the field of psychology because I love helping people transform to the best version of themselves. We all need a safe place to understand ourselves and how we relate to others/self. I often say "We need to be Mindful of our Total-Well Being and that our minds and our bodies are an inter-connected systems. Where the mind goes, so does the man or woman in their actions and body states. We go to the physician for our physical health, so how much healthier would we be if we went to our psychologist for our mental health?" At heart, I am a holistic practitioner and love seeing my clients Thrive.
Some of my specialty areas are Attachment- Based Issues, Anxiety and Depressive/ Mood Disorders, Addictions/Substance Abuse, Post Traumatic Disorders, Trauma, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Couples Therapy, Divorce, Women's Health Issues, Chronic Pain, Yoga, Somatic based Therapies, and Spirituality.
I went into the field of psychology because I love helping people transform to the best version of themselves. We all need a safe place to understand ourselves and how we relate to others/self. I often say "We need to be Mindful of our Total-Well Being and that our minds and our bodies are an inter-connected systems. Where the mind goes, so does the man or woman in their actions and body states. We go to the physician for our physical health, so how much healthier would we be if we went to our psychologist for our mental health?" At heart, I am a holistic practitioner and love seeing my clients Thrive.
(314) 485-4853 View (314) 485-4853
Photo of Heather Robinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Heather Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110
I believe that each person has inherent strengths to overcome life's challenges, and therapy can help you tap into these qualities. In addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, or strained relationships, I can help you identify your goals and work towards them, in a warm and accepting environment.
I believe that each person has inherent strengths to overcome life's challenges, and therapy can help you tap into these qualities. In addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, or strained relationships, I can help you identify your goals and work towards them, in a warm and accepting environment.
(816) 281-1389 View (816) 281-1389
Photo of Dr. Jonnie Mae Middletonlotte, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Dr. Jonnie Mae Middletonlotte
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD,, MS,, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65804
Personal conflict can cause chaos in your life, but the appropriate resolution can nurture healthy relationships and personal growth. If you are ready to dig in and do the hard work, together we can work towards the more peaceful and happy life you desire. We offer Substance use groups for adults and adolescents. We are Christian centered and use a variety of research-based therapeutic methods of counseling to find what works best for our clients. I believe therapy should be started with the end in mind, so our goal is to bring about peace and balance in a timely manner.
Personal conflict can cause chaos in your life, but the appropriate resolution can nurture healthy relationships and personal growth. If you are ready to dig in and do the hard work, together we can work towards the more peaceful and happy life you desire. We offer Substance use groups for adults and adolescents. We are Christian centered and use a variety of research-based therapeutic methods of counseling to find what works best for our clients. I believe therapy should be started with the end in mind, so our goal is to bring about peace and balance in a timely manner.
(417) 283-4940 View (417) 283-4940
Photo of Adam Lynch, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Adam Lynch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64116
I specialize in individual therapy, couples counseling (including pre-marital), family counseling, substance issues, counseling with older teens and parenting teens.
We are not meant to live life alone, but rather deeply involved in relationships. Some of these relationships are highly successful, while others have come with great loss, significant struggle or just the every day difficulty of learning to live and enjoy life with another person. I believe in the value of working through personal problems in the context of building stronger relationships. I will help you work through this on a personal level or with whomever you are needing to have a restored relationship with.
I specialize in individual therapy, couples counseling (including pre-marital), family counseling, substance issues, counseling with older teens and parenting teens.
We are not meant to live life alone, but rather deeply involved in relationships. Some of these relationships are highly successful, while others have come with great loss, significant struggle or just the every day difficulty of learning to live and enjoy life with another person. I believe in the value of working through personal problems in the context of building stronger relationships. I will help you work through this on a personal level or with whomever you are needing to have a restored relationship with.
(816) 327-7967 View (816) 327-7967
Photo of Janice Mills, Counselor in Missouri
Janice Mills
Counselor, NCC, LPC, CRAADC, CAMS-1, SQP-R
Verified Verified
Troy, MO 63379
We all can feel trapped, paralyzed or stuck from time to time. Whether it's a relationship, school, career, adoption, challenges with trauma, depression, anxiety, or substance use, we can find ourselves repeating the same patterns. I work with individuals, families and groups to help them understand the patterns of their lives and how to move beyond the challenges. My focus is in building families and changing lives. I believe that the major factor in successful therapy is developing a relationship that feels comfortable and safe. Trust is essential and I emphasize the importance of openness and cooperation.
We all can feel trapped, paralyzed or stuck from time to time. Whether it's a relationship, school, career, adoption, challenges with trauma, depression, anxiety, or substance use, we can find ourselves repeating the same patterns. I work with individuals, families and groups to help them understand the patterns of their lives and how to move beyond the challenges. My focus is in building families and changing lives. I believe that the major factor in successful therapy is developing a relationship that feels comfortable and safe. Trust is essential and I emphasize the importance of openness and cooperation.
(636) 306-3871 View (636) 306-3871
Photo of Heiser Counseling and Healing Arts, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Heiser Counseling and Healing Arts
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kirkwood, MO 63122
Other models used to treat trauma and related disorders (performance, relationship, depression, anxiety, substance use, mood disorders) include psycho-education, IFS, CBT and MI.
I enjoy helping people become self-aware, accepting, heal and improve their quality of life and relationships. I use a variety of approaches, including client centered, strengthbased, focused on goals set with client. I enjoy helping people grow, and become self and spiritually aware. I work with children, (6 -19), and adults dealing with PTSD, trauma, anxiety, attachments issues, relationships, addictions, and mortality. I enjoy working with individuals, partners, couples and families. I believe in the power of focused healing, increased awareness, acceptence, hope and love.
Other models used to treat trauma and related disorders (performance, relationship, depression, anxiety, substance use, mood disorders) include psycho-education, IFS, CBT and MI.
I enjoy helping people become self-aware, accepting, heal and improve their quality of life and relationships. I use a variety of approaches, including client centered, strengthbased, focused on goals set with client. I enjoy helping people grow, and become self and spiritually aware. I work with children, (6 -19), and adults dealing with PTSD, trauma, anxiety, attachments issues, relationships, addictions, and mortality. I enjoy working with individuals, partners, couples and families. I believe in the power of focused healing, increased awareness, acceptence, hope and love.
(618) 712-0291 View (618) 712-0291
Photo of Deborah S Scallorn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Deborah S Scallorn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ellisville, MO 63011
Together we can work to: recover from substance abuse, improve relationships, create healthy boundaries, break undesirable and damaging life patterns, overcome disturbing memories or traumas, cope with issues related to aging, make self-care a priority, manage stress or pain, and move towards creating a new dream.
Please consider allowing me to help guide you to live your life to the fullest, to live the life you have always wanted, to become all you are meant to be. Do you find that joy and happiness are missing from your life? Are negative beliefs holding you back from living the life you truly want? You do not have to live like this any longer. Let me help you discover your true potential and awaken to the life you have always imagined. A life with more happiness, joy and gratitude.
Together we can work to: recover from substance abuse, improve relationships, create healthy boundaries, break undesirable and damaging life patterns, overcome disturbing memories or traumas, cope with issues related to aging, make self-care a priority, manage stress or pain, and move towards creating a new dream.
Please consider allowing me to help guide you to live your life to the fullest, to live the life you have always wanted, to become all you are meant to be. Do you find that joy and happiness are missing from your life? Are negative beliefs holding you back from living the life you truly want? You do not have to live like this any longer. Let me help you discover your true potential and awaken to the life you have always imagined. A life with more happiness, joy and gratitude.
(636) 779-3820 View (636) 779-3820
Photo of Brian J Abbott Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Brian J Abbott Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64116
I am passionate about helping people who struggle with anxiety, addiction, developmental trauma, depression, and relational issues. At the core of my approach is an attitude of warmth, acceptance, and faith in my client's innate capacity for healing and transformation. Often people come to therapy with a sense of disempowerment. The impulse to reach out in hope of finding a caring, safe, or 'true other' shows your innate wisdom and strength. We are all in desperate need of help and connection. The implicit hope is that you can do more than just survive.
I am passionate about helping people who struggle with anxiety, addiction, developmental trauma, depression, and relational issues. At the core of my approach is an attitude of warmth, acceptance, and faith in my client's innate capacity for healing and transformation. Often people come to therapy with a sense of disempowerment. The impulse to reach out in hope of finding a caring, safe, or 'true other' shows your innate wisdom and strength. We are all in desperate need of help and connection. The implicit hope is that you can do more than just survive.
(816) 227-6550 View (816) 227-6550

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.