Photo of Cari Hansen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Cari Hansen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mansfield, MO 65704
I have been trained in Play Therapy along with ample knowledge and understanding of Co-Occurring addictions/substance abuse, and eating disorders.
My experience with helping individuals and families overcome difficult challenges is my passion. I believe that it easier to find and build upon one's strengths than it is to focus primarily on fixing problems. Much of my time in therapy is spent on discovering creative solutions rather than talking too long just about what is wrong. I often involve the whole family and believe that every person is unique and requires an individualized approach. One size does not fit all. Please call me or email today discuss your needs and hopes and/or to set an appointment time.
I have been trained in Play Therapy along with ample knowledge and understanding of Co-Occurring addictions/substance abuse, and eating disorders.
My experience with helping individuals and families overcome difficult challenges is my passion. I believe that it easier to find and build upon one's strengths than it is to focus primarily on fixing problems. Much of my time in therapy is spent on discovering creative solutions rather than talking too long just about what is wrong. I often involve the whole family and believe that every person is unique and requires an individualized approach. One size does not fit all. Please call me or email today discuss your needs and hopes and/or to set an appointment time.
(417) 201-5058 View (417) 201-5058
Photo of Whitney B Ide Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Missouri
Whitney B Ide Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Joseph, MO 64506
I welcome any problem a person is having, but have special interest and training in the areas of addiction (substances, gambling, sex, eating, gaming, etc.
Making the decision to seek help is the the first step towards living a healthier, happier life. The second step is finding the right therapist. I believe that success in therapy is dependent on the strength of the relationship between the counselor and client. I view myself as an advocate, a catalyst for change, and an objective sounding board, rather than an expert who can listen to your problems for an hour and then magically know how to run your life better than you do. You are the expert on you! My job is to help you learn how to help yourself.
I welcome any problem a person is having, but have special interest and training in the areas of addiction (substances, gambling, sex, eating, gaming, etc.
Making the decision to seek help is the the first step towards living a healthier, happier life. The second step is finding the right therapist. I believe that success in therapy is dependent on the strength of the relationship between the counselor and client. I view myself as an advocate, a catalyst for change, and an objective sounding board, rather than an expert who can listen to your problems for an hour and then magically know how to run your life better than you do. You are the expert on you! My job is to help you learn how to help yourself.
(816) 482-3675 View (816) 482-3675
Photo of Nancy McCormick, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Missouri
Nancy McCormick
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CRAADC, LAC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64112
I have worked for many years to assist people in dealing with the dramatic impact of addictions; including the addicted individual and also the family or loved ones who have been impacted by the disease of addiction.
I believe in the strength of working together to solve life issues. Taking the first step is the hardest; finding a counselor and making the phone call. Congratulations for reaching out to find support and help.
I have worked for many years to assist people in dealing with the dramatic impact of addictions; including the addicted individual and also the family or loved ones who have been impacted by the disease of addiction.
I believe in the strength of working together to solve life issues. Taking the first step is the hardest; finding a counselor and making the phone call. Congratulations for reaching out to find support and help.
(816) 640-4477 View (816) 640-4477
Photo of Tina Pennington, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Tina Pennington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nixa, MO 65714
I specialize in the areas of addiction & recovery codependency issues.
I am focused on providing high-quality counseling services in a comfortable and safe environment where clients can explore their potential & grow in healthy ways. I base my practice on the belief that my clients' needs are of the upmost importance. I will work with you on identifying your emotional, spiritual & physical needs & dicovering healthy ways to meet them. I work with adults & adolescents. I conduct individual, marital, pre-marital and family sessions. I am able to file with many insurance companies. I hope to have the opportunity to work with you!
I specialize in the areas of addiction & recovery codependency issues.
I am focused on providing high-quality counseling services in a comfortable and safe environment where clients can explore their potential & grow in healthy ways. I base my practice on the belief that my clients' needs are of the upmost importance. I will work with you on identifying your emotional, spiritual & physical needs & dicovering healthy ways to meet them. I work with adults & adolescents. I conduct individual, marital, pre-marital and family sessions. I am able to file with many insurance companies. I hope to have the opportunity to work with you!
(417) 212-0935 View (417) 212-0935
Photo of Life Restoration Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Life Restoration Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Troy, MO 63379
Samantha Graham-Douglas, LPC and Life Restoration Center have been a part of the community since 2011. We have a mission of providing comfort, safety, and respect to those coming from hopeless situations - including trauma, sexual abuse, substance abuse, sexual addictions, criminal activity, delinquency, behavioral issues, parenting issues, and marital problems. Samantha and other team members have been trained in several trauma theories such as TF-CBT and EMDR and have experience working with substance abuse, addictions, mental health, family systems and focus on the whole family- children, adolescents, adults and families.
Samantha Graham-Douglas, LPC and Life Restoration Center have been a part of the community since 2011. We have a mission of providing comfort, safety, and respect to those coming from hopeless situations - including trauma, sexual abuse, substance abuse, sexual addictions, criminal activity, delinquency, behavioral issues, parenting issues, and marital problems. Samantha and other team members have been trained in several trauma theories such as TF-CBT and EMDR and have experience working with substance abuse, addictions, mental health, family systems and focus on the whole family- children, adolescents, adults and families.
(636) 528-4333 View (636) 528-4333
Photo of Kathryn Grant, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Kathryn Grant
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCAC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
I have a back ground working in addiction treatment centers and I work with clients needing assistance with general mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress reduction, grief, healthy communication skills and conflict resolution.
I have been in practice 18 years and continue to feel privileged and look forward to meeting with and talking to my clients daily! I love learning about and connecting with the people I work with an I'm enthusiastic in my approach to therapy. I have a background in working with clients with substance use issues and also work extensively with families and loved ones affected by substance use. I also help clients with issues like depression, anxiety, grief and stress. I use mindfulness, meditation, solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and ACT among others to help clients change their internal dialogs.
I have a back ground working in addiction treatment centers and I work with clients needing assistance with general mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress reduction, grief, healthy communication skills and conflict resolution.
I have been in practice 18 years and continue to feel privileged and look forward to meeting with and talking to my clients daily! I love learning about and connecting with the people I work with an I'm enthusiastic in my approach to therapy. I have a background in working with clients with substance use issues and also work extensively with families and loved ones affected by substance use. I also help clients with issues like depression, anxiety, grief and stress. I use mindfulness, meditation, solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and ACT among others to help clients change their internal dialogs.
(913) 325-4625 View (913) 325-4625
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 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 Mary Kay Houck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Mary Kay Houck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buffalo, MO 65622
I provide individual, family and group outpatient counseling for people of all ages. I work with people who may be struggling with relationship issues, anxiety issues, substance abuse and addiction and behavioral addictions, bullying, conflict resolution, grief loss issues, trauma and PTSD, anger management, adult and childhood ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders. I also assist children and families with parent-child relational issues and behavior modification skill development. I have worked within the school system, inpatient and outpatient settings, in homes, and emergency rooms. I have trained youth to help peers on a local suicide hotline.
I provide individual, family and group outpatient counseling for people of all ages. I work with people who may be struggling with relationship issues, anxiety issues, substance abuse and addiction and behavioral addictions, bullying, conflict resolution, grief loss issues, trauma and PTSD, anger management, adult and childhood ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders. I also assist children and families with parent-child relational issues and behavior modification skill development. I have worked within the school system, inpatient and outpatient settings, in homes, and emergency rooms. I have trained youth to help peers on a local suicide hotline.
(417) 424-5782 View (417) 424-5782
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 Hannah Deatz, Pre-Licensed Professional in Missouri
Hannah Deatz
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PLCP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65804
I have experience working with problematic sexual behavior, addiction, daily life stress, trauma, anxiety, PTSD, adjustment disorder, and depression.
Now accepting new clients! Addiction and trauma are linked. Unresolved trauma and attachment wounds need to heal. Be heard and validated without judgement. Allow your pain to be acknowledged. Regain a sense of sanity and heal from trauma and attachment failures. We all want to be seen, heard, and known. When working with me, a client-centered approach is utilized, meaning I will show unconditional positive regard and an empathetic understanding towards all clients. Together we will navigate the presenting issues while learning to incorporate new, healthy coping mechanisms and process through trauma.
I have experience working with problematic sexual behavior, addiction, daily life stress, trauma, anxiety, PTSD, adjustment disorder, and depression.
Now accepting new clients! Addiction and trauma are linked. Unresolved trauma and attachment wounds need to heal. Be heard and validated without judgement. Allow your pain to be acknowledged. Regain a sense of sanity and heal from trauma and attachment failures. We all want to be seen, heard, and known. When working with me, a client-centered approach is utilized, meaning I will show unconditional positive regard and an empathetic understanding towards all clients. Together we will navigate the presenting issues while learning to incorporate new, healthy coping mechanisms and process through trauma.
(417) 807-3863 View (417) 807-3863
Photo of Jennifer Reid, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Jennifer Reid
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, RD, LD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64064
My areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, eating disorders, and PTSD.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, down, or anxious and don't know what to do or where to go? Do you feel very alone and nobody else understands or has experienced what you have/or are experiencing? Are you having trouble sleeping due to looping thoughts running through your mind? Have all your old ways of coping stopped working? We all need support and guidance along our journey. Sometimes we need more than what our family and friends can provide. When circumstances happen making life more difficult, you may need some extra help. Together, you and I can find the right path and tools to get you back to feeling more like yourself.
My areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, eating disorders, and PTSD.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, down, or anxious and don't know what to do or where to go? Do you feel very alone and nobody else understands or has experienced what you have/or are experiencing? Are you having trouble sleeping due to looping thoughts running through your mind? Have all your old ways of coping stopped working? We all need support and guidance along our journey. Sometimes we need more than what our family and friends can provide. When circumstances happen making life more difficult, you may need some extra help. Together, you and I can find the right path and tools to get you back to feeling more like yourself.
(816) 875-0868 View (816) 875-0868
Photo of Lynda Bankston, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Lynda Bankston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63303
Individual/ Couples/ Family/ Adolescent Therapeutic Sessions Available! Are you Angry and don't know why? Are you dealing with Depression and Anxiety? Are you Dealing with Addiction? Do you have marriage or relationship problems and just don't know what to do? Are you stressed out and don't know how to sort things out? Call today and let's figure things out. Don't wait for things to get better on there own. Call now so we can start you in a new direction. Make Your Mental Health a PRIORITY **Offering Evening and Weekend Appointments**
Individual/ Couples/ Family/ Adolescent Therapeutic Sessions Available! Are you Angry and don't know why? Are you dealing with Depression and Anxiety? Are you Dealing with Addiction? Do you have marriage or relationship problems and just don't know what to do? Are you stressed out and don't know how to sort things out? Call today and let's figure things out. Don't wait for things to get better on there own. Call now so we can start you in a new direction. Make Your Mental Health a PRIORITY **Offering Evening and Weekend Appointments**
(636) 685-2097 View (636) 685-2097
Photo of Patrick P Pruitt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Patrick P Pruitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW, CADC, MAC, CRADC
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64082  (Online Only)
I specialize working with people who have experienced trauma, anxiety and depressive issues, bipolar, as well as substance use disorders. I provide a judgment-free, supportive setting and aid the client in identifying their own inner strengths to help them find solutions to whatever difficulties they are experiencing. I want my clients to feel safe and valued. I provide quality services at a reasonable price on a virtual platform from the comfort and privacy of your own home. I am licensed to provide services in both Missouri and Kansas. I am also certified to provide substance use counseling throughout the United States.
I specialize working with people who have experienced trauma, anxiety and depressive issues, bipolar, as well as substance use disorders. I provide a judgment-free, supportive setting and aid the client in identifying their own inner strengths to help them find solutions to whatever difficulties they are experiencing. I want my clients to feel safe and valued. I provide quality services at a reasonable price on a virtual platform from the comfort and privacy of your own home. I am licensed to provide services in both Missouri and Kansas. I am also certified to provide substance use counseling throughout the United States.
(816) 813-2134 View (816) 813-2134
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 Jessie McLaughlin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Jessie McLaughlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64105  (Online Only)
Life is hard. So many of us struggle with issues related to anxiety, depression, and addiction making life feel even harder. Feelings of inadequacy, hopelessness, and self-doubt can hold us back. Overthinking and endless negative thoughts can have us ready to give up. Fortunately, those distressing feelings and thoughts don't have to be permanent. You are capable of developing emotional resilience and self-empowerment to enable you thrive. You are worthy of good things.
Life is hard. So many of us struggle with issues related to anxiety, depression, and addiction making life feel even harder. Feelings of inadequacy, hopelessness, and self-doubt can hold us back. Overthinking and endless negative thoughts can have us ready to give up. Fortunately, those distressing feelings and thoughts don't have to be permanent. You are capable of developing emotional resilience and self-empowerment to enable you thrive. You are worthy of good things.
(816) 578-6116 View (816) 578-6116
Photo of Wendy G. Bryant, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Wendy G. Bryant
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, CRADC, MARS
Verified Verified
Curryville, MO 63339
I have new client openings! I can help you get your life back on track. Let me help you with life situations, trauma, substance use and I will listen to you without judgment in a safe and confidential environment. I am a certified addictions counselor with 15 years experience and have my EMDR certification since 2022. I work with adults and adolescence. I have a Master's degree in Counseling and in Criminal Justice. I provide counseling for individual's, couples, and families.
I have new client openings! I can help you get your life back on track. Let me help you with life situations, trauma, substance use and I will listen to you without judgment in a safe and confidential environment. I am a certified addictions counselor with 15 years experience and have my EMDR certification since 2022. I work with adults and adolescence. I have a Master's degree in Counseling and in Criminal Justice. I provide counseling for individual's, couples, and families.
(573) 435-3641 View (573) 435-3641
Photo of Craig Mcandrew, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Craig Mcandrew
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCAC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64112
I also specialize in issues such as Substance abuse and PTSD.
Yes I have availability. No, I'm not in network with insurance. Your out of network benefits may cover. I'm very easy to talk to. Do you have trouble sleeping? Are you overwhelmed? Do you have a sense of doom? Have friends and/or family commented on the amount of alcohol or drugs you can take? If so, you may benefit from seeing me. Since 1996, I have worked extensively with people struggling with Substance Use Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and Grief. I also take a secular approach to those who have experienced religious trauma. If you have struggled with any of these issues, I can definitely help.
I also specialize in issues such as Substance abuse and PTSD.
Yes I have availability. No, I'm not in network with insurance. Your out of network benefits may cover. I'm very easy to talk to. Do you have trouble sleeping? Are you overwhelmed? Do you have a sense of doom? Have friends and/or family commented on the amount of alcohol or drugs you can take? If so, you may benefit from seeing me. Since 1996, I have worked extensively with people struggling with Substance Use Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and Grief. I also take a secular approach to those who have experienced religious trauma. If you have struggled with any of these issues, I can definitely help.
(816) 727-7769 View (816) 727-7769
Photo of Gladys Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Gladys Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, NCC, MAC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105  (Online Only)
I have extensive training in trauma, addiction, depression and anxiety, as well as stress and adjustment. I address the whole person in treatment planning. Individuals that work with me are empowered and encourages to meet their selected goal to achieve balance in their lives. We work together to form goals and I help you navigate the journey to wellness. We will use the body as a resource, as well as art, movement and poetry if a person chooses.This is a veteran owned business. I served 27 years in the United States Navy as a Hospital Corpsman (Medic), I work with first Responders and thrir families, veterans and MST.
I have extensive training in trauma, addiction, depression and anxiety, as well as stress and adjustment. I address the whole person in treatment planning. Individuals that work with me are empowered and encourages to meet their selected goal to achieve balance in their lives. We work together to form goals and I help you navigate the journey to wellness. We will use the body as a resource, as well as art, movement and poetry if a person chooses.This is a veteran owned business. I served 27 years in the United States Navy as a Hospital Corpsman (Medic), I work with first Responders and thrir families, veterans and MST.
(314) 300-0370 View (314) 300-0370
Photo of Dr. Diana Eul, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Dr. Diana Eul
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CSAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65804
My clients are successful, highly-motivated professionals who find that certain areas of life are becoming unmanageable. I am a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT®) specializing in sex/porn addictions, partners of sex addicts, multiple addictions, trauma, abuse, and PTSD. I trained under Patrick Carnes at the International Institute of Trauma and Addiction Professionals (IITAP). Under Dan Allender I earned an advanced counseling certificate in trauma-focused narrative therapy. Addiction, abuse and trauma are viewed as symptoms rather than defining characteristics. I seek an approach to recovery that embraces positive, proactive, sustainable change.
My clients are successful, highly-motivated professionals who find that certain areas of life are becoming unmanageable. I am a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT®) specializing in sex/porn addictions, partners of sex addicts, multiple addictions, trauma, abuse, and PTSD. I trained under Patrick Carnes at the International Institute of Trauma and Addiction Professionals (IITAP). Under Dan Allender I earned an advanced counseling certificate in trauma-focused narrative therapy. Addiction, abuse and trauma are viewed as symptoms rather than defining characteristics. I seek an approach to recovery that embraces positive, proactive, sustainable change.
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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.