Photo of Erin Michelle Buck, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Hastings, MN
Erin Michelle Buck
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hastings, MN 55033
I knew at a young age that I wanted to work with people because I find joy in helping individuals get through difficult times. I have worked with individuals with serious and persistent mental illness (SPMI) for over 7 years and have found a passion for working with individuals specifically with addiction, trauma, relationship, sexuality, anxiety and depression concerns. Our goal together is to help you become more confident, independent and to find relief from your current challenges.
I knew at a young age that I wanted to work with people because I find joy in helping individuals get through difficult times. I have worked with individuals with serious and persistent mental illness (SPMI) for over 7 years and have found a passion for working with individuals specifically with addiction, trauma, relationship, sexuality, anxiety and depression concerns. Our goal together is to help you become more confident, independent and to find relief from your current challenges.
(651) 661-4373 View (651) 661-4373
Photo of Wild Tree Wellness, Counselor in Hastings, MN
Wild Tree Wellness
Counselor, MS, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hastings, MN 55033
Our clinicians are trauma-informed, LGBTQIA+ friendly, and many have advanced training in areas of trauma, addiction, perinatal mental health, and play therapy.
There are things the world throws at us that we can’t always change, and we know cookie-cutter approaches to health and wellness don’t always work. We provide care designed to address the root cause and to sustain growth and well-being. We believe that the mind-body connection is essential to life-long health and we are committed to teaching you how to be well for a lifetime – not just for now.
Our clinicians are trauma-informed, LGBTQIA+ friendly, and many have advanced training in areas of trauma, addiction, perinatal mental health, and play therapy.
There are things the world throws at us that we can’t always change, and we know cookie-cutter approaches to health and wellness don’t always work. We provide care designed to address the root cause and to sustain growth and well-being. We believe that the mind-body connection is essential to life-long health and we are committed to teaching you how to be well for a lifetime – not just for now.
(651) 390-1976 x1 View (651) 390-1976 x1
Photo of Hunter Hager, Counselor in Hastings, MN
Hunter Hager
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Hastings, MN 55033
I have worked as a licensed alcohol and drug counselor for adolescents, families, and adults since 2018 and received my Masters degree in Addiction Studies: Advanced Practice in 2019 from the Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies.
The struggle is real! As a licensed professional clinical counselor, I work with children/teens and adults individually, and strive to provide my clients a safe, open space where they can feel at ease to begin the therapeutic process. I aim to meet all my clients where they are at & provide unconditional positive regard for each unique experience that is brought to the table. Seeking out help is a sign of strength, & I work with my clients to develop healthy strategies to manage the challenges they are faced with. With training in Accelerated Resolution Therapy, I help my clients regain their sense of power over their lives.
I have worked as a licensed alcohol and drug counselor for adolescents, families, and adults since 2018 and received my Masters degree in Addiction Studies: Advanced Practice in 2019 from the Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies.
The struggle is real! As a licensed professional clinical counselor, I work with children/teens and adults individually, and strive to provide my clients a safe, open space where they can feel at ease to begin the therapeutic process. I aim to meet all my clients where they are at & provide unconditional positive regard for each unique experience that is brought to the table. Seeking out help is a sign of strength, & I work with my clients to develop healthy strategies to manage the challenges they are faced with. With training in Accelerated Resolution Therapy, I help my clients regain their sense of power over their lives.
(651) 412-3054 View (651) 412-3054
Photo of Beth Von Gemmingen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hastings, MN
Beth Von Gemmingen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Hastings, MN 55033
I have over 25 years working with teens, families, and individuals in a variety of settings from addiction through mental health services.
Emotions makes our lives matter. They convert our lives into a series of events that become our living breathing human experience. As a therapist I meet my clients where they are at. We will work together to celebrate the positive experiences in your life and identify strategies for moving through the difficult ones. I collaborate with individuals, partners, and parents to create a wholistic plan of care. You are the center of this whole process and the expert on you. We will create your best life and achieve your goals.
I have over 25 years working with teens, families, and individuals in a variety of settings from addiction through mental health services.
Emotions makes our lives matter. They convert our lives into a series of events that become our living breathing human experience. As a therapist I meet my clients where they are at. We will work together to celebrate the positive experiences in your life and identify strategies for moving through the difficult ones. I collaborate with individuals, partners, and parents to create a wholistic plan of care. You are the center of this whole process and the expert on you. We will create your best life and achieve your goals.
(651) 390-1759 View (651) 390-1759
Photo of Wild Tree Psychotherapy, Counselor in Hastings, MN
Wild Tree Psychotherapy
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hastings, MN 55033
There are things the world throws at us that can feel overwhelming and we know cookie-cutter approaches to health and wellness don't always work. And, sometimes you need extra help, and support, to learn the skills to better cope with stress you encounter in life. Our collaborative team of professionally trained, compassionate therapists are dedicated to building a trusting relationship with you on your journey to long-term wellness. Each therapist is passionate about finding a therapeutic approach that provides holistic wellness and promotes health in a warm, welcoming environment.
There are things the world throws at us that can feel overwhelming and we know cookie-cutter approaches to health and wellness don't always work. And, sometimes you need extra help, and support, to learn the skills to better cope with stress you encounter in life. Our collaborative team of professionally trained, compassionate therapists are dedicated to building a trusting relationship with you on your journey to long-term wellness. Each therapist is passionate about finding a therapeutic approach that provides holistic wellness and promotes health in a warm, welcoming environment.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Nicole Billingsley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hastings, MN
Dr. Nicole Billingsley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, MSW, LICSW, LADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Cottage Grove, MN 55016
I have experience treating a variety of issues that you may be facing including addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, self esteem issues, shame, relationship and family issues, and more.
Some days can feel as though you have tried everything to overcome an issue, and nothing is working. It can feel as if you are barely able to hang on. I get it, and I can help. Whether it is an issue with someone in your life, something from your past, or self-defeating thoughts and behaviors, we will work together to find solutions. It is my mission to help you find the hope and strength needed to get on the other side of life’s adversities. I am a Doctor of Behavioral Health, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
I have experience treating a variety of issues that you may be facing including addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, self esteem issues, shame, relationship and family issues, and more.
Some days can feel as though you have tried everything to overcome an issue, and nothing is working. It can feel as if you are barely able to hang on. I get it, and I can help. Whether it is an issue with someone in your life, something from your past, or self-defeating thoughts and behaviors, we will work together to find solutions. It is my mission to help you find the hope and strength needed to get on the other side of life’s adversities. I am a Doctor of Behavioral Health, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
(612) 800-0968 View (612) 800-0968
Photo of Mikke Papes, Pre-Licensed Professional in Hastings, MN
Mikke Papes
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LGSW, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cottage Grove, MN 55016
My services cover a wide range of areas including anxiety, depression, systemic issues, addiction, emotional navigation, women's issues, anger management, stress relief, self-esteem, men's issues, values and purpose, breaking free from the shackles of perfectionism, and fostering self-acceptance.
Immediate availability. You've carried the weight of your struggles alone for far too long. The mere thought of reaching out for help, expressing your needs, and acknowledging your worth as a person feels like an insurmountable hurdle! Anxiety and depression seem to have a firm grip, distorting your perspective. Navigating through emotions has become a labyrinth, and anger simmers beneath the surface. The pressures of life have left you seeking effective stress management strategies. Self-esteem feels elusive, and issues related to masculinity and femininity weigh heavily on your shoulders. Perfectionism has crushed self-acceptance.
My services cover a wide range of areas including anxiety, depression, systemic issues, addiction, emotional navigation, women's issues, anger management, stress relief, self-esteem, men's issues, values and purpose, breaking free from the shackles of perfectionism, and fostering self-acceptance.
Immediate availability. You've carried the weight of your struggles alone for far too long. The mere thought of reaching out for help, expressing your needs, and acknowledging your worth as a person feels like an insurmountable hurdle! Anxiety and depression seem to have a firm grip, distorting your perspective. Navigating through emotions has become a labyrinth, and anger simmers beneath the surface. The pressures of life have left you seeking effective stress management strategies. Self-esteem feels elusive, and issues related to masculinity and femininity weigh heavily on your shoulders. Perfectionism has crushed self-acceptance.
(763) 496-4895 View (763) 496-4895
Photo of Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hastings, MN
Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul Park, MN 55071
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
(763) 363-4584 View (763) 363-4584
Photo of Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hastings, MN
Peter Meilahn, MA, LPCC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Cottage Grove, MN 55016
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
My clients can change anxiety, ADHD, autism, or pain with live heart and brain feedback called biofeedback or neurofeedback in online visits. Clients control music volume on their phones with their calm attention levels with free biofeedback equipment I provide. It is easy mindfulness therapy for kids and adults. It is proven to work as well as medication for anxiety, ADHD, and pain. I have years of experience as a therapist, and have taught clinicians at The University of MN Medical Center and elsewhere. Insurance covers this service. To schedule a 20 minute call, click here: https://neurotherapy.intakeq.com/booking
(612) 295-0844 View (612) 295-0844

Online Therapists

Photo of Molly Buhler, Pre-Licensed Professional in Hastings, MN
Molly Buhler
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55116
I have experience working with adults with substance abuse disorders & mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, trauma related disorders, and more.
Seeking a therapist can sometimes feel like an overwhelming process and I commend you for taking this first step towards change and healing! I am currently accepting new clients and would be honored to work with you.
I have experience working with adults with substance abuse disorders & mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, trauma related disorders, and more.
Seeking a therapist can sometimes feel like an overwhelming process and I commend you for taking this first step towards change and healing! I am currently accepting new clients and would be honored to work with you.
(651) 615-9491 View (651) 615-9491
Photo of Samantha Yerks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hastings, MN
Samantha Yerks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MN 55008
Waitlist for new clients
My career began working intensively with people who have addiction and mental health disorders at the University of Minnesota Medical Center.
Because therapy can be intimidating, I make it a point to be sure all of my clients feel comfortable, welcomed and understood. I specialize in the treatment of: trauma, depression, anxiety, & addiction. I treat people through the use of attachment theory and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Attachment theory can help individuals examine the experiences of their relationships and process them in a healthier manner. I use EMDR in the treatment of trauma and other mental health needs, such as: anxiety, addiction and depression.
My career began working intensively with people who have addiction and mental health disorders at the University of Minnesota Medical Center.
Because therapy can be intimidating, I make it a point to be sure all of my clients feel comfortable, welcomed and understood. I specialize in the treatment of: trauma, depression, anxiety, & addiction. I treat people through the use of attachment theory and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Attachment theory can help individuals examine the experiences of their relationships and process them in a healthier manner. I use EMDR in the treatment of trauma and other mental health needs, such as: anxiety, addiction and depression.
(651) 319-5341 View (651) 319-5341
Photo of Todd M Frickey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hastings, MN
Todd M Frickey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55102
I have worked with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relational challenges, and co-occurring substance use concerns.
“Stuck.” This is a word that often comes up in therapy: feeling stuck with painful feelings, with past traumatic experiences, in unhealthy ways of coping, or in challenging relationship dynamics. When stuck with thoughts of the past or worries about the future, this gets in the way of living in the present. Especially as environments are often invalidating of emotional experiences, getting unstuck is about making room for what we've learned to avoid. Through a close and meaningful relationship, I am passionate about creating a safe environment in which we can get to the bottom of what is keeping you from the life you want to lead.
I have worked with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relational challenges, and co-occurring substance use concerns.
“Stuck.” This is a word that often comes up in therapy: feeling stuck with painful feelings, with past traumatic experiences, in unhealthy ways of coping, or in challenging relationship dynamics. When stuck with thoughts of the past or worries about the future, this gets in the way of living in the present. Especially as environments are often invalidating of emotional experiences, getting unstuck is about making room for what we've learned to avoid. Through a close and meaningful relationship, I am passionate about creating a safe environment in which we can get to the bottom of what is keeping you from the life you want to lead.
(651) 401-7380 View (651) 401-7380
Photo of Martha Sorenson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hastings, MN
Martha Sorenson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55407
Waitlist for new clients
My work focuses on healing from complex trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, personality disorders, and life transitions.
I believe it takes courage to begin the process of change. With that spirit, I try to embody the African Proverb: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” I believe we can all heal, change and grow, particularly when we have support and love in the process. I feel deeply honored to walk arm in arm in therapy with the clients I see. In both my therapeutic work and personally, I value humor, compassion, and sincerity. The therapist you choose is someone whom you’ve entrusted to build a safe and healing relationship.
My work focuses on healing from complex trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, personality disorders, and life transitions.
I believe it takes courage to begin the process of change. With that spirit, I try to embody the African Proverb: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” I believe we can all heal, change and grow, particularly when we have support and love in the process. I feel deeply honored to walk arm in arm in therapy with the clients I see. In both my therapeutic work and personally, I value humor, compassion, and sincerity. The therapist you choose is someone whom you’ve entrusted to build a safe and healing relationship.
(952) 522-5673 View (952) 522-5673
Photo of Dean T. Theophilos, Counselor in Hastings, MN
Dean T. Theophilos
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55114
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals and couples with anxiety, depression, identity issues, relationship conflicts, trauma, and addiction. My passionate and synergistic approach helps clients reflect on their emotional, relational, and behavioral patterns, which help them live and form their inner world. I collaboratively explore these patterns to create purpose and empowerment while bringing about healthier ways of relating to others, the world, and oneself.
I work with individuals and couples with anxiety, depression, identity issues, relationship conflicts, trauma, and addiction. My passionate and synergistic approach helps clients reflect on their emotional, relational, and behavioral patterns, which help them live and form their inner world. I collaboratively explore these patterns to create purpose and empowerment while bringing about healthier ways of relating to others, the world, and oneself.
(651) 661-3363 View (651) 661-3363
Photo of The Shani Project, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hastings, MN
The Shani Project
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55118  (Online Only)
I primarily focus on the following: Anger Management, Racial Trauma, Anxiety, Addiction, Pet Loss, Self Esteem and issues within the LGBTQIA community.
My overall goal when working with people is for them to come to a place of understanding & acceptance with decisions already made, and yet to be made. I make it my goal to provide individuals the tools needed for self-empowerment and improved patterns of living and thinking via humor, honest observation, and respect. Mode of therapy is through telehealth.
I primarily focus on the following: Anger Management, Racial Trauma, Anxiety, Addiction, Pet Loss, Self Esteem and issues within the LGBTQIA community.
My overall goal when working with people is for them to come to a place of understanding & acceptance with decisions already made, and yet to be made. I make it my goal to provide individuals the tools needed for self-empowerment and improved patterns of living and thinking via humor, honest observation, and respect. Mode of therapy is through telehealth.
(651) 400-8650 View (651) 400-8650
Photo of Pamela Graber, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hastings, MN
Pamela Graber
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110  (Online Only)
I work with individuals who have experienced all forms of trauma, struggle with anxiety, substance use disorders, and PTSD.
I am currently offering teletherapy. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help identify goals, create a plan, and help access the client's own strengths to find solutions. If your relationship is in pain, you and all family members may feel the impact. Whether you wish to learn how to increase a positive connection or repair a serious tear in that relationship, I will create a safe environment for you to resolve your differences, look at underlying causes of difficulties, and learn healthier and less reactive ways of relating to one another.
I work with individuals who have experienced all forms of trauma, struggle with anxiety, substance use disorders, and PTSD.
I am currently offering teletherapy. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help identify goals, create a plan, and help access the client's own strengths to find solutions. If your relationship is in pain, you and all family members may feel the impact. Whether you wish to learn how to increase a positive connection or repair a serious tear in that relationship, I will create a safe environment for you to resolve your differences, look at underlying causes of difficulties, and learn healthier and less reactive ways of relating to one another.
(651) 304-4421 View (651) 304-4421
Photo of Taylor Miller, Counselor in Hastings, MN
Taylor Miller
Counselor, LPCC, LADC, MS
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55422
The complexity of addiction and mental health can have a significant impact on one’s life and relationships. I understand the link between substance use and mental health issues, and the importance of addressing both. My approach integrates evidence-based practices, such as motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy, to help individuals understand their patterns and develop strategies for change. I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), a program used to help individuals with traumas such as post-traumatic stress (PTSD), depression, grief/loss, phobias, anxiety and addiction. I offer a safe, non-judgment
The complexity of addiction and mental health can have a significant impact on one’s life and relationships. I understand the link between substance use and mental health issues, and the importance of addressing both. My approach integrates evidence-based practices, such as motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy, to help individuals understand their patterns and develop strategies for change. I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), a program used to help individuals with traumas such as post-traumatic stress (PTSD), depression, grief/loss, phobias, anxiety and addiction. I offer a safe, non-judgment
(763) 373-6959 View (763) 373-6959
Photo of Mitch Fuchs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hastings, MN
Mitch Fuchs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55404
I commonly work with men’s issues, non-monogamy, life transitions, addiction, anxiety, identity exploration, and communication issues.
I commonly work with men’s issues, non-monogamy, life transitions, addiction, anxiety, identity exploration, and communication issues.
(612) 688-3316 View (612) 688-3316
Photo of Cornerstone Therapy and Recovery Center, Psychologist in Hastings, MN
Cornerstone Therapy and Recovery Center
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55104
Waitlist for new clients
Before this I worked at various clinics, correctional facilities and agencies treating addictions, domestic violence, sexual addiction, sex offenses and general mental health issues both with men.
I've been counseling men and couples for over 40 years. My specialties are men with compulsive/addictive sexual behaviors, unresolved childhood abuse/trauma/neglect, anxiety/depression, relationship problems and intimacy issues. I also do couple's therapy teaching and helping couples in good communication and conflict management and how to heal from infidelity. Cornerstone has 5 outpatient treatment groups for men with sexual addiction. We also have very skilled therapist who treat childhood trauma and neglect with very highly regarded therapeutic methods and approaches including EMDR, Sensorimotor and Pesso Psychomotor Therapy.
Before this I worked at various clinics, correctional facilities and agencies treating addictions, domestic violence, sexual addiction, sex offenses and general mental health issues both with men.
I've been counseling men and couples for over 40 years. My specialties are men with compulsive/addictive sexual behaviors, unresolved childhood abuse/trauma/neglect, anxiety/depression, relationship problems and intimacy issues. I also do couple's therapy teaching and helping couples in good communication and conflict management and how to heal from infidelity. Cornerstone has 5 outpatient treatment groups for men with sexual addiction. We also have very skilled therapist who treat childhood trauma and neglect with very highly regarded therapeutic methods and approaches including EMDR, Sensorimotor and Pesso Psychomotor Therapy.
(651) 964-0945 View (651) 964-0945
Photo of Amber Egdorf, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Hastings, MN
Amber Egdorf
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55119  (Online Only)
My passion is working with individuals with dual-diagnosis or co-occurring substance use concerns along with an array of mental health disorders. I have a specific passion working with those who have experienced trauma or have been diagnosed/have concerns related to a personality disorder. I have worked with individuals with both substance and sexual addictions and find great passion in being able to work with individuals to help them implement changes and shape their lives towards a life worth enjoying.
My passion is working with individuals with dual-diagnosis or co-occurring substance use concerns along with an array of mental health disorders. I have a specific passion working with those who have experienced trauma or have been diagnosed/have concerns related to a personality disorder. I have worked with individuals with both substance and sexual addictions and find great passion in being able to work with individuals to help them implement changes and shape their lives towards a life worth enjoying.
(651) 360-1147 View (651) 360-1147
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.