Addiction Therapists in Normandy, MO

Photo of Vanessa Cox, MA, LPC, CADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vanessa Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Normandy, MO 63121
EPICS offers comprehensive services including; evidenced based therapy, individualized treatment planning, substance abuse assessments, community referrals, individual, family & group therapy, agency consultations, clinical trainings and seminars.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated or alone? Struggling with increasing stress at work/ home, feelings of sadness or hopelessness? Well you are not alone. EPICS strives to promote personal goal attainment through provision of holistic care, providing individuals with the skills and insight they need to envision and actualize their fullest potential. EPICS will help you build on your existing strengths to expand problem solving and coping skills, improve relationships and decrease symptoms and/or impact of mental health and substance related disorders. As EPICS' lead therapist, it is my personal goal to help every person build positive long lasting change within their lives!
EPICS offers comprehensive services including; evidenced based therapy, individualized treatment planning, substance abuse assessments, community referrals, individual, family & group therapy, agency consultations, clinical trainings and seminars.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated or alone? Struggling with increasing stress at work/ home, feelings of sadness or hopelessness? Well you are not alone. EPICS strives to promote personal goal attainment through provision of holistic care, providing individuals with the skills and insight they need to envision and actualize their fullest potential. EPICS will help you build on your existing strengths to expand problem solving and coping skills, improve relationships and decrease symptoms and/or impact of mental health and substance related disorders. As EPICS' lead therapist, it is my personal goal to help every person build positive long lasting change within their lives!
(314) 287-5905 View (314) 287-5905

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sarah Bell - Solutions for Wellbeing, LLC, MA, LPC, CCDP-D, MARS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Solutions for Wellbeing, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCDP-D, MARS
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63146  (Online Only)
I have over 15 years of experience working with clients who experience anxiety, depression, major-life set-backs, stress-related concerns, and substance use concerns.
Our lives can get very busy--making it hard to find time for counseling. I provide counseling via Telehealth and offer convenient evening and weekend time slots. Life can sometimes “knock our socks off”—I focus on helping clients get back on track and thriving again. Together, we develop a step-by-step plan to identify the problem, explore possible solutions, and develop strategies to move forward. We will explore the things that are getting in the way of you feeling your best self.
I have over 15 years of experience working with clients who experience anxiety, depression, major-life set-backs, stress-related concerns, and substance use concerns.
Our lives can get very busy--making it hard to find time for counseling. I provide counseling via Telehealth and offer convenient evening and weekend time slots. Life can sometimes “knock our socks off”—I focus on helping clients get back on track and thriving again. Together, we develop a step-by-step plan to identify the problem, explore possible solutions, and develop strategies to move forward. We will explore the things that are getting in the way of you feeling your best self.
(314) 690-9876 View (314) 690-9876
Photo of Scott Heuer, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scott Heuer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Life is full of experiences that hold a lasting effect on us and deter us from moving forward, but we also have a long list of personal strengths within our “SELF” that too often go unnoticed due to the overwhelm of life in general. I will work with you to identify, and utilize these strengths by processing through past trauma, stress and anxiety, as well as the heaviness of a lack of self-worth. I work with individuals of all identities, but being someone who has personal life experiences with addiction, identifies as LGBTQ and is an adoptive parent, I have developed a special interest in these populations.
Life is full of experiences that hold a lasting effect on us and deter us from moving forward, but we also have a long list of personal strengths within our “SELF” that too often go unnoticed due to the overwhelm of life in general. I will work with you to identify, and utilize these strengths by processing through past trauma, stress and anxiety, as well as the heaviness of a lack of self-worth. I work with individuals of all identities, but being someone who has personal life experiences with addiction, identifies as LGBTQ and is an adoptive parent, I have developed a special interest in these populations.
(314) 328-8731 View (314) 328-8731
Photo of Pamela Hieger, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamela Hieger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
I've done a great deal of work with those who struggle with addiction.
Have you ever gone through a rough patch in life and felt like you didn't know how to get out of it? Some of us struggle for long periods of time and feel that it's our fault or that no one would be able to understand how we feel. Maybe you live with a vague feeling that something's not right. Personal experience with psychotherapy is what turned me into a believer in its power to transform life. I had always felt that I wanted to help people but after my life was changed by experiencing therapy, I really felt that I wanted to pass this gift on to others.
I've done a great deal of work with those who struggle with addiction.
Have you ever gone through a rough patch in life and felt like you didn't know how to get out of it? Some of us struggle for long periods of time and feel that it's our fault or that no one would be able to understand how we feel. Maybe you live with a vague feeling that something's not right. Personal experience with psychotherapy is what turned me into a believer in its power to transform life. I had always felt that I wanted to help people but after my life was changed by experiencing therapy, I really felt that I wanted to pass this gift on to others.
(314) 208-2327 View (314) 208-2327
Photo of Gabriele Hoog, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabriele Hoog
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ladue, MO 63124  (Online Only)
I also have certificates in substance use treatment.
Life can be overwhelming and challenges may seem insurmountable. It may be difficult to find a way through the barriers that are standing in the way of your personal happiness. Intense emotions like anxiety, depression, and anger can make managing stressful situations even more difficult. Maladaptive coping strategies like emotionally shutting down, perfectionism, critical thinking, alcohol and drug use, self-sabotage and communication breakdowns can increase feelings of isolation and loneliness. Reaching out for help takes strength and courage. Therapy can help you find a way through the barriers that are holding you back.
I also have certificates in substance use treatment.
Life can be overwhelming and challenges may seem insurmountable. It may be difficult to find a way through the barriers that are standing in the way of your personal happiness. Intense emotions like anxiety, depression, and anger can make managing stressful situations even more difficult. Maladaptive coping strategies like emotionally shutting down, perfectionism, critical thinking, alcohol and drug use, self-sabotage and communication breakdowns can increase feelings of isolation and loneliness. Reaching out for help takes strength and courage. Therapy can help you find a way through the barriers that are holding you back.
(573) 508-0932 View (573) 508-0932
Photo of Gladys Smith, PsyD, LPC, NCC, MAC, CCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
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 Theresa Pace, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Theresa Pace
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63141
Are you struggling with anxiety, codependency, and/or depression? Are you having a hard time navigating your loved one's substance use disorder or their recovery journey? We believe in creating an open, safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate therapeutic environment that is informed by structure to help you make the changes necessary to build the life that you want.
Are you struggling with anxiety, codependency, and/or depression? Are you having a hard time navigating your loved one's substance use disorder or their recovery journey? We believe in creating an open, safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate therapeutic environment that is informed by structure to help you make the changes necessary to build the life that you want.
(314) 207-2935 View (314) 207-2935
Photo of Sara Farrell, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Farrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
I'm also trained in helping with addictions, substance abuse, and at risk adolescents.
Now virtual and in person! Challenging times and unforeseen life deviations happen. Relationships struggle and sometimes end. Hurt, stress, grief, depression and anxiety are often a result. Counseling is a powerful benefit to help you navigate your journey to reach healing and growth. You do not have to walk through it alone. I can help you to understand your situation, cope, and move through life productively.
I'm also trained in helping with addictions, substance abuse, and at risk adolescents.
Now virtual and in person! Challenging times and unforeseen life deviations happen. Relationships struggle and sometimes end. Hurt, stress, grief, depression and anxiety are often a result. Counseling is a powerful benefit to help you navigate your journey to reach healing and growth. You do not have to walk through it alone. I can help you to understand your situation, cope, and move through life productively.
(314) 328-8667 View (314) 328-8667
Photo of Haley Fisher, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Haley Fisher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63110
Call us to see how we can help you in your long-term recovery from Substance Use, Alcohol Use, and Behavioral Health Disorders.
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Recovery Center is the place for you. At Sana Lake Recovery, we offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers.
Call us to see how we can help you in your long-term recovery from Substance Use, Alcohol Use, and Behavioral Health Disorders.
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Recovery Center is the place for you. At Sana Lake Recovery, we offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers.
(636) 241-9591 View (636) 241-9591
Photo of Rebecca A Mowen, LCSW, CADC, CIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca A Mowen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63105
With years of experience and expertise in addiction counseling, mental health, and intervention strategies, I am dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey towards healing and self-discovery.
I believe that in order to effectively navigate relationships, whether at home, in the workplace, or within the community, it is essential to understand and address the dynamics of the larger systems at play. By taking a holistic and systemic approach to therapy, I work collaboratively with clients to empower them to put their 'oxygen mask' on first and foster healthier relationships within the context of their unique systems.
With years of experience and expertise in addiction counseling, mental health, and intervention strategies, I am dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey towards healing and self-discovery.
I believe that in order to effectively navigate relationships, whether at home, in the workplace, or within the community, it is essential to understand and address the dynamics of the larger systems at play. By taking a holistic and systemic approach to therapy, I work collaboratively with clients to empower them to put their 'oxygen mask' on first and foster healthier relationships within the context of their unique systems.
(314) 254-9249 View (314) 254-9249
Photo of Michael Singleton, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Singleton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Maryland Heights, MO 63043
Call us to see how we can help you in your long-term recovery from Substance Use, Alcohol Use, and Behavioral Health Disorders.
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center is the place for you. At Sana Lake Recovery, we offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers.
Call us to see how we can help you in your long-term recovery from Substance Use, Alcohol Use, and Behavioral Health Disorders.
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center is the place for you. At Sana Lake Recovery, we offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers.
(314) 207-2782 View (314) 207-2782
Photo of Lindsay C Nichols, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsay C Nichols
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63132
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 Jodie Hempen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jodie Hempen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63106
Call us to see how we can help you in your long-term recovery from Substance Use, Alcohol Use, and Behavioral Health Disorders.
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Recovery Center is the place for you. At Sana Lake Recovery, we offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers.
Call us to see how we can help you in your long-term recovery from Substance Use, Alcohol Use, and Behavioral Health Disorders.
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Recovery Center is the place for you. At Sana Lake Recovery, we offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers.
(636) 241-9886 View (636) 241-9886
Photo of Julie Schwartz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Maryland Heights, MO 63043
Call us to see how we can help you in your long-term recovery from Substance Use, Alcohol Use, and Behavioral Health Disorders.
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center is the place for you. At Sana Lake Recovery, we offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers. Addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution which is why we offer personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs.
Call us to see how we can help you in your long-term recovery from Substance Use, Alcohol Use, and Behavioral Health Disorders.
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center is the place for you. At Sana Lake Recovery, we offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers. Addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution which is why we offer personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs.
(314) 742-3776 View (314) 742-3776
Photo of Tina Villalobos, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tina Villalobos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63124
Before private practice, I worked as a therapist at a substance abuse outpatient facility followed by an eating disorder treatment center where I worked with patients and their families.
I work with teens, adults, and older adults who are facing challenges related to eating disorders and poor body image, as well as other issues such as alcoholism, substance abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety, and sexual concerns. I often receive referrals from weight loss management doctors when their patients are encountering psychological issues that are getting in the way of them losing weight. I also frequently work with adolescents for a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, eating issues, and concerns related to sexuality.
Before private practice, I worked as a therapist at a substance abuse outpatient facility followed by an eating disorder treatment center where I worked with patients and their families.
I work with teens, adults, and older adults who are facing challenges related to eating disorders and poor body image, as well as other issues such as alcoholism, substance abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety, and sexual concerns. I often receive referrals from weight loss management doctors when their patients are encountering psychological issues that are getting in the way of them losing weight. I also frequently work with adolescents for a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, eating issues, and concerns related to sexuality.
(314) 328-5097 View (314) 328-5097
Elephant Rock Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119
Welcome to Elephant Rock Counseling - we have recently added an experienced female therapists who still has some availability for NEW CLIENTS. The majority of our therapists work with Adults & Adolescents - we can assist with important life goals and help you find more adaptive coping skills working through challenging obstacles that usually lead one to therapy. Areas of speciality include: Motivational Interviewing for Addiction, Behavioral Activation for Depression, Acceptance and Commitment Trauma Focused Therapy for Anxiety, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for Suicidal & Self-Harm Behaviors.
Welcome to Elephant Rock Counseling - we have recently added an experienced female therapists who still has some availability for NEW CLIENTS. The majority of our therapists work with Adults & Adolescents - we can assist with important life goals and help you find more adaptive coping skills working through challenging obstacles that usually lead one to therapy. Areas of speciality include: Motivational Interviewing for Addiction, Behavioral Activation for Depression, Acceptance and Commitment Trauma Focused Therapy for Anxiety, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for Suicidal & Self-Harm Behaviors.
(314) 626-8509 View (314) 626-8509
Photo of Laila Merz, PhD, Psychologist
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 Elizabeth Ann Jensema - Peaceful Healing LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peaceful Healing LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63101  (Online Only)
Hello, I’m Elizabeth. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing social work for 20 years. I enjoy helping adults struggling with addiction, suicidal ideation and significant mental illness. My goal is to meet you where you are at and to help you achieve goals that are meaningful to you. I like to have fun with humor, stay positive, and focus on moving forward one day at a time. I feel it's important to provide support and the reassurance that you are not alone, we are all struggling. I hope I can help you to feel comfortable and supported. I hold a clinical license in WI, MO, and MI.
Hello, I’m Elizabeth. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing social work for 20 years. I enjoy helping adults struggling with addiction, suicidal ideation and significant mental illness. My goal is to meet you where you are at and to help you achieve goals that are meaningful to you. I like to have fun with humor, stay positive, and focus on moving forward one day at a time. I feel it's important to provide support and the reassurance that you are not alone, we are all struggling. I hope I can help you to feel comfortable and supported. I hold a clinical license in WI, MO, and MI.
(920) 536-4184 View (920) 536-4184
Photo of Rachel Dettleff-Schmidt, LCSW, CRADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Dettleff-Schmidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRADC
Verified Verified
Webster Groves, MO 63119  (Online Only)
I support adults dealing with painful past experiences that show up as addiction, anxiety, and relationship issues.
Our past experiences may shape us, but they don't have to define our lives. Sometimes painful memories, emotions, or even our own behavior can feel like a heavy weight we've been carrying for a long time. This weight can hold us back and can make life feel overwhelming. It can lead to problems in our relationships, unwanted thoughts and behaviors, or disconnection from ourselves and the things in life that matter most. It can feel impossible at times to free ourselves of this burden alone. I'm here to offer hope; hope that this weight can be lifted.
I support adults dealing with painful past experiences that show up as addiction, anxiety, and relationship issues.
Our past experiences may shape us, but they don't have to define our lives. Sometimes painful memories, emotions, or even our own behavior can feel like a heavy weight we've been carrying for a long time. This weight can hold us back and can make life feel overwhelming. It can lead to problems in our relationships, unwanted thoughts and behaviors, or disconnection from ourselves and the things in life that matter most. It can feel impossible at times to free ourselves of this burden alone. I'm here to offer hope; hope that this weight can be lifted.
(636) 789-1510 View (636) 789-1510
Photo of Ashley Milne, LPC, CPC, CMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Milne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPC, CMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105  (Online Only)
I am a trained EMDR therapist and specialize in the treatment of addiction and trauma.
I have an extensive knowledge of the rehabilitation process of individuals with various physical, cognitive, psychosocial, and psychological impairments. I have experience working with individuals struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, trauma, addiction, PTSD, substance abuse/chemical dependency, eating disorders, dissociative disorders, and gender dysphoria. I find joy in helping others successfully navigate through difficult challenges and strive to assist my clients reach their highest personal potential and live their best lives possible.
I am a trained EMDR therapist and specialize in the treatment of addiction and trauma.
I have an extensive knowledge of the rehabilitation process of individuals with various physical, cognitive, psychosocial, and psychological impairments. I have experience working with individuals struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, trauma, addiction, PTSD, substance abuse/chemical dependency, eating disorders, dissociative disorders, and gender dysphoria. I find joy in helping others successfully navigate through difficult challenges and strive to assist my clients reach their highest personal potential and live their best lives possible.
(314) 697-4943 View (314) 697-4943

See more therapy options for Normandy

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.