Addiction Therapists in New Hampshire

Photo of Rex L Bunnell, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in New Hampshire
Rex L Bunnell
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, MLADC
Verified Verified
Wolfeboro, NH 03894
One of the most important things that I have learned over time is that the opposite of addiction is human connection.
My name is Rex L. Bunnell, a master's level licensed alcohol and drug counselor at Wallastook Counseling. I have over 25 years of experience working in the addictions field. I not only understand the entire process of how recovery unfolds, but I also have a personal connection with recovery. Our first meeting gives the client and clinician an opportunity to develop a therapeutic alliance and presents the client with an opportunity to explore what his needs and goals are in counseling. Issues such as isolation, relationship conflicts, emotional dysregulation, and cognitive distortions all lead to alcohol and drug abuse.
One of the most important things that I have learned over time is that the opposite of addiction is human connection.
My name is Rex L. Bunnell, a master's level licensed alcohol and drug counselor at Wallastook Counseling. I have over 25 years of experience working in the addictions field. I not only understand the entire process of how recovery unfolds, but I also have a personal connection with recovery. Our first meeting gives the client and clinician an opportunity to develop a therapeutic alliance and presents the client with an opportunity to explore what his needs and goals are in counseling. Issues such as isolation, relationship conflicts, emotional dysregulation, and cognitive distortions all lead to alcohol and drug abuse.
(603) 945-0189 View (603) 945-0189
Photo of Brian D Wener, Psychologist in New Hampshire
Brian D Wener
Psychologist, BA, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Practicing 40 years in Seacoast Tri-state area. Portsmouth Family Institute faculty member, former Guest Lecturer, UNH Grad. Studies in Marriage/Family Therapy. PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING for ADHD- child/adult; Presurgical evaluations; Court-Legal-School evaluations. APA Board Certified in Assessment/Treatment of Substance Use Disorders ADDICTION services to families. Individuals/couples/families undergoing life transitions/divorce. I am a former GAL. I provide psychological assessment/treatment to clients of GALs. I gladly work with ages 14 +.
Practicing 40 years in Seacoast Tri-state area. Portsmouth Family Institute faculty member, former Guest Lecturer, UNH Grad. Studies in Marriage/Family Therapy. PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING for ADHD- child/adult; Presurgical evaluations; Court-Legal-School evaluations. APA Board Certified in Assessment/Treatment of Substance Use Disorders ADDICTION services to families. Individuals/couples/families undergoing life transitions/divorce. I am a former GAL. I provide psychological assessment/treatment to clients of GALs. I gladly work with ages 14 +.
(603) 769-4162 View (603) 769-4162
Photo of White Birch Recovery Services, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in New Hampshire
White Birch Recovery Services
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LICSW, MLADC
Verified Verified
Dover, NH 03820
I am honored to be able to provide clinical services to those suffering from Substance Use Disorders. My ideal in practice is to form a strong, collaborative, therapeutic relationship with my clients. My style is empathetic, compassionate, and direct. I believe that by exploring thoughts, emotions, and maladaptive behavior patterns, we can become more insightful and understanding of ourselves. Through this vulnerable process we are able to create life-long change that will increase self esteem and the ability to form close interpersonal relationships with those we care about.
I am honored to be able to provide clinical services to those suffering from Substance Use Disorders. My ideal in practice is to form a strong, collaborative, therapeutic relationship with my clients. My style is empathetic, compassionate, and direct. I believe that by exploring thoughts, emotions, and maladaptive behavior patterns, we can become more insightful and understanding of ourselves. Through this vulnerable process we are able to create life-long change that will increase self esteem and the ability to form close interpersonal relationships with those we care about.
(603) 369-4225 View (603) 369-4225
Photo of Marie-Elizabeth Ramas in New Hampshire
Marie-Elizabeth Ramas
MD, FAAFP
Verified Verified
Nashua, NH 03060
GateHouse Treatment is a private substance abuse center providing intervention and treatment services to those struggling with substance use disorders and individuals with co-occurring mental health disorders. We provide individualized treatment in a small, gender-specific environment. Also, GateHouse offers one of the only comprehensive vocational programs in Nashua, New Hampshire. At GateHouse, our evidence-based practice is applied along with creative interventions. We provide extraordinary individualized care and enable our clients to gain insight into their underlying factors driving addictive behaviors.
GateHouse Treatment is a private substance abuse center providing intervention and treatment services to those struggling with substance use disorders and individuals with co-occurring mental health disorders. We provide individualized treatment in a small, gender-specific environment. Also, GateHouse offers one of the only comprehensive vocational programs in Nashua, New Hampshire. At GateHouse, our evidence-based practice is applied along with creative interventions. We provide extraordinary individualized care and enable our clients to gain insight into their underlying factors driving addictive behaviors.
(844) 977-4321 View (844) 977-4321
Photo of Innate Therapeutic Services, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in New Hampshire
Innate Therapeutic Services
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MLADC, LADC, LICSW
Verified Verified
Franklin, NH 03235
Innate Therapeutic Services offers state of the art approaches to evaluate and treat substance use disorders and mental health concerns. We are staffed with a MLADC, LADC, and an LICSW to address any needs. Our clinicians provide initial assessments, facilitate individual and group therapy, complete LADC evaluations, and coordinate client services. We offer an Intensive Outpatient Program that can work with your work schedule. We have NH approved Impaired Driver Service Providers for those convicted of DUI/DWI and in need of aftercare. Call (603) 671-7045 to schedule an intake to see how we can help you today!
Innate Therapeutic Services offers state of the art approaches to evaluate and treat substance use disorders and mental health concerns. We are staffed with a MLADC, LADC, and an LICSW to address any needs. Our clinicians provide initial assessments, facilitate individual and group therapy, complete LADC evaluations, and coordinate client services. We offer an Intensive Outpatient Program that can work with your work schedule. We have NH approved Impaired Driver Service Providers for those convicted of DUI/DWI and in need of aftercare. Call (603) 671-7045 to schedule an intake to see how we can help you today!
(603) 671-7045 View (603) 671-7045
Photo of Sheila Jenkins, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in New Hampshire
Sheila Jenkins
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, MLADC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03802
I provide counseling to individuals on a variety of issues including depression/anxiety,anger management, substance abuse, addiction, compulsive behaviors,and stress management. Counseling sessions are tailored to your goals: either short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing ongoing personal growth. If you are looking for ways to gain a better understanding of yourself, change old behavior patterns, learn new ways to cope with stress then counseling can help you. What you can expect from counseling is compassion, and understanding, new perspectives on negative feelings and behaviors, and strategies for creating positive changes in your life.
I provide counseling to individuals on a variety of issues including depression/anxiety,anger management, substance abuse, addiction, compulsive behaviors,and stress management. Counseling sessions are tailored to your goals: either short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing ongoing personal growth. If you are looking for ways to gain a better understanding of yourself, change old behavior patterns, learn new ways to cope with stress then counseling can help you. What you can expect from counseling is compassion, and understanding, new perspectives on negative feelings and behaviors, and strategies for creating positive changes in your life.
(603) 244-3939 View (603) 244-3939
Photo of Linda M Brewer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Hampshire
Linda M Brewer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MLADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Meredith, NH 03253
I work with clients to address an array of issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, substance misuse, self-esteem, grief/loss, life transitions, chronic illness and Employee Assistance Program Services.
I utilize evidence based practices that emphasize changing maladaptive ways of thinking and behaving as key factors in reducing stress, anxiety, depression and self-defeating behavior patterns. I am dually licensed as an Independent Clinical Social Worker and Masters Level Alcohol and other Drug Counselor. I am an approved Clinical Supervisor for individuals seeking licensure through the New Hampshire Board of Mental Health and the NH Board of Alcohol and other Drug Use Professionals for LADC/MLADC licensure.
I work with clients to address an array of issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, substance misuse, self-esteem, grief/loss, life transitions, chronic illness and Employee Assistance Program Services.
I utilize evidence based practices that emphasize changing maladaptive ways of thinking and behaving as key factors in reducing stress, anxiety, depression and self-defeating behavior patterns. I am dually licensed as an Independent Clinical Social Worker and Masters Level Alcohol and other Drug Counselor. I am an approved Clinical Supervisor for individuals seeking licensure through the New Hampshire Board of Mental Health and the NH Board of Alcohol and other Drug Use Professionals for LADC/MLADC licensure.
(603) 764-7584 View (603) 764-7584
Photo of Shawna Delworth, Counselor in New Hampshire
Shawna Delworth
Counselor, LCMHC, MLADC, ADS
Verified Verified
Woodsville, NH 03785
(Currently Not Accepting New Clients) I provide counseling to people with a range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, chronic pain, PTSD and substance use. I work with clients who are age 14 and older, I enjoy working with people of all ages. My interest in non-invasive techniques and complimentary treatments would likely be attractive to patients with similar interests. I believe that patients have the ability heal their own struggles and my role is to provide support and guidance to patients as they go through this journey.
(Currently Not Accepting New Clients) I provide counseling to people with a range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, chronic pain, PTSD and substance use. I work with clients who are age 14 and older, I enjoy working with people of all ages. My interest in non-invasive techniques and complimentary treatments would likely be attractive to patients with similar interests. I believe that patients have the ability heal their own struggles and my role is to provide support and guidance to patients as they go through this journey.
(833) 590-0097 View (833) 590-0097
Photo of Judith Fournier, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in New Hampshire
Judith Fournier
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CPS, MLADC
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NH 03244  (Online Only)
Some of the areas I have experience providing guidance in are: grief, bereavement, life transitions, depression, anxiety, drug addiction and relapse prevention.
I am a Master Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. My scope of practice includes counseling for those struggling with drug and/or alcohol issues for themselves or those in their lives as well as mental health issues. I have worked with clients of all ages for nearly 25 yrs. I provide drug and alcohol evaluations with a lead time of at least one month. I primarily meet with clients at the end of the day by Zoom/phone, now throughout New Hampshire.
Some of the areas I have experience providing guidance in are: grief, bereavement, life transitions, depression, anxiety, drug addiction and relapse prevention.
I am a Master Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. My scope of practice includes counseling for those struggling with drug and/or alcohol issues for themselves or those in their lives as well as mental health issues. I have worked with clients of all ages for nearly 25 yrs. I provide drug and alcohol evaluations with a lead time of at least one month. I primarily meet with clients at the end of the day by Zoom/phone, now throughout New Hampshire.
(603) 651-0071 View (603) 651-0071
Photo of Sondra Cullen, Marriage & Family Therapist in New Hampshire
Sondra Cullen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brookline, NH 03033  (Online Only)
A few experiences in my life have positively impacted my connection with others. A majority of my experience has been working in dual diagnosis facilities, which has provided me with considerable insight into mental health and substance abuse. Secondly, I worked as a special education teacher, gaining insight from both the parent’s and child’s perspective. Lastly, as the spouse of an active duty and now veteran sailor, I am deeply connected to the veterans community.
A few experiences in my life have positively impacted my connection with others. A majority of my experience has been working in dual diagnosis facilities, which has provided me with considerable insight into mental health and substance abuse. Secondly, I worked as a special education teacher, gaining insight from both the parent’s and child’s perspective. Lastly, as the spouse of an active duty and now veteran sailor, I am deeply connected to the veterans community.
(248) 560-7363 View (248) 560-7363
Photo of Chad O'Brien, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Hampshire
Chad O'Brien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Dover, NH 03820  (Online Only)
Life can often be challenging. I am here to help those who are at a point in their life where something has to change and the willingness to make that change, whatever that might look like, is now present. Whether the problem is life status, relationship or family conflict, oppositional behaviors or substance abuse/addiction, change is possible. Please email me for fastest response.
Life can often be challenging. I am here to help those who are at a point in their life where something has to change and the willingness to make that change, whatever that might look like, is now present. Whether the problem is life status, relationship or family conflict, oppositional behaviors or substance abuse/addiction, change is possible. Please email me for fastest response.
(844) 548-7584 View (844) 548-7584
Photo of Mackenzie Seely, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in New Hampshire
Mackenzie Seely
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LICSW, MLADC
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03102  (Online Only)
I have been working in the field of substance use disorder since 2015.
LICSW & MLADC! I have a strong personal belief that all individuals who seek to change their lives are capable of doing so. I enjoy working with both those who are just starting to explore areas of their lives they are unhappy with or those who know what they want to change and are looking for guidance or new perspectives. Many clients come in with goals targeting their mental health and addiction, others are seeking changes in lifestyle or just need someone to listen. I am also available to provide evaluations as requested by clients, courts, or other entities! Happy to help! Reach out today!
I have been working in the field of substance use disorder since 2015.
LICSW & MLADC! I have a strong personal belief that all individuals who seek to change their lives are capable of doing so. I enjoy working with both those who are just starting to explore areas of their lives they are unhappy with or those who know what they want to change and are looking for guidance or new perspectives. Many clients come in with goals targeting their mental health and addiction, others are seeking changes in lifestyle or just need someone to listen. I am also available to provide evaluations as requested by clients, courts, or other entities! Happy to help! Reach out today!
(978) 301-8794 View (978) 301-8794
Photo of Wanderlust Therapeutic Services, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Hampshire
Wanderlust Therapeutic Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Nashua, NH 03063
Many of our staff clinicians specialize in trauma, addiction, and mood disorder treatments.
Please Read: Accepting new clients except for EAPs or Managed Medicare products at this time we have reached our max caseload for these plans, we have immediate openings for all other health plans. Wanderlust is a group practice that offers independently licensed clinicians, pre-licensed professionals, and clinical students that treat a wide array of mental health and addiction disorders. Our staff provide individual, family and group counseling to children, adolescents and adults. We will work with you to develop a treatment plan that will address your strengths and needs.
Many of our staff clinicians specialize in trauma, addiction, and mood disorder treatments.
Please Read: Accepting new clients except for EAPs or Managed Medicare products at this time we have reached our max caseload for these plans, we have immediate openings for all other health plans. Wanderlust is a group practice that offers independently licensed clinicians, pre-licensed professionals, and clinical students that treat a wide array of mental health and addiction disorders. Our staff provide individual, family and group counseling to children, adolescents and adults. We will work with you to develop a treatment plan that will address your strengths and needs.
(603) 392-7274 View (603) 392-7274
Photo of Matthew Kobs in New Hampshire
Matthew Kobs
PsyD
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03101
In addition, my strong foundation in Motivational Interviewing enables me to provide a safe and empathic place for those struggling with substance misuse to explore their commitment to behavioral change.
Everyone has a story to tell, a thread that consciously or unconsciously guides his or her behavior, wants, and motivations. In my practice, I try to help people who have become unhappy with their current pattern of living and have begun to think about building a clearer understanding of who they are and who they feel they would like to "be." I work to build a mutual appreciation for each other's story. Having received extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral and Analytical Theory, I am able to provide an eclectic approach to working with a wide variety of clients' needs.
In addition, my strong foundation in Motivational Interviewing enables me to provide a safe and empathic place for those struggling with substance misuse to explore their commitment to behavioral change.
Everyone has a story to tell, a thread that consciously or unconsciously guides his or her behavior, wants, and motivations. In my practice, I try to help people who have become unhappy with their current pattern of living and have begun to think about building a clearer understanding of who they are and who they feel they would like to "be." I work to build a mutual appreciation for each other's story. Having received extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral and Analytical Theory, I am able to provide an eclectic approach to working with a wide variety of clients' needs.
(855) 805-4668 View (855) 805-4668
Photo of danielle delloiacono, Art Therapist in New Hampshire
danielle delloiacono
Art Therapist, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Concord, NH 03303  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, unexpected life events, or addiction? Let me guide you with my open-minded approach, whether you prefer talk therapy or using the art therapy approach, it's up to you. I have over a decade of experience working in the mental health field. We can work together on healthy coping skills, improving boundaries, processing grief, and learning ways to express yourself in these unsettling times. When attending session you can gain a stronger self-esteem, self-worth, and healthy communication skills. Online sessions only.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, unexpected life events, or addiction? Let me guide you with my open-minded approach, whether you prefer talk therapy or using the art therapy approach, it's up to you. I have over a decade of experience working in the mental health field. We can work together on healthy coping skills, improving boundaries, processing grief, and learning ways to express yourself in these unsettling times. When attending session you can gain a stronger self-esteem, self-worth, and healthy communication skills. Online sessions only.
(978) 619-8620 View (978) 619-8620
Photo of Kimberly D Ducharme, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in New Hampshire
Kimberly D Ducharme
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, MLADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashua, NH 03062
Please contact me if you feel you are struggling with substance abuse, chronic relapsing or constant preoccupation with drugs and alcohol and I will walk beside you on your path to personal freedom through recovery .
I believe the path to recovery begins with finding your inner strength, empowering yourself and sometimes reaching out for help. If you are struggling with substance abuse or co-occurring issues, I am here to offer guidance and support. I have been working in the addictions field for over 6 years in a multitude of settings. I have worked within the prison system offering substance abuse treatment to both men and women. I have also worked as a clinician within a non-profit organization. Working in these settings have taught me that their is no cookie cutter approach to substance abuse treatment, everyone's path is different.
Please contact me if you feel you are struggling with substance abuse, chronic relapsing or constant preoccupation with drugs and alcohol and I will walk beside you on your path to personal freedom through recovery .
I believe the path to recovery begins with finding your inner strength, empowering yourself and sometimes reaching out for help. If you are struggling with substance abuse or co-occurring issues, I am here to offer guidance and support. I have been working in the addictions field for over 6 years in a multitude of settings. I have worked within the prison system offering substance abuse treatment to both men and women. I have also worked as a clinician within a non-profit organization. Working in these settings have taught me that their is no cookie cutter approach to substance abuse treatment, everyone's path is different.
(603) 945-2189 View (603) 945-2189
Photo of Donna M. Fredette, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in New Hampshire
Donna M. Fredette
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, MLADC
Verified Verified
Somersworth, NH 03878  (Online Only)
Many times when you suffer from the disease of addiction you are also suffering with a co-occurring diagnosis such as anxiety, depression, PTSD or one of many mood disorders or personality disorders.
Are you tired of the day to day struggle of using? Is everyone around you using and you don't know how to make it all stop? Do you just want your life back? Are you afraid today could be your last day and still that won't keep you from using? I meet you where you are, in a judgment free zone, where we can identify your internal and external triggers, emotions, thoughts and addictive behaviors. Together we will create an individual roadmap to recovery that will work for you! Christian or secular counseling available.
Many times when you suffer from the disease of addiction you are also suffering with a co-occurring diagnosis such as anxiety, depression, PTSD or one of many mood disorders or personality disorders.
Are you tired of the day to day struggle of using? Is everyone around you using and you don't know how to make it all stop? Do you just want your life back? Are you afraid today could be your last day and still that won't keep you from using? I meet you where you are, in a judgment free zone, where we can identify your internal and external triggers, emotions, thoughts and addictive behaviors. Together we will create an individual roadmap to recovery that will work for you! Christian or secular counseling available.
(603) 312-0814 View (603) 312-0814
Photo of George Bortnick, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in New Hampshire
George Bortnick
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, MLADC, IDSP
Verified Verified
Londonderry, NH 03053
I have been practicing addiction counselor since 2016 in Hampstead New Hampshire. I primarily conduct telehealth but also have an office in Hampstead if you want in person sessions. I am trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, anger management, impaired driver service provider, Battery Intervention, Mindfulness, Nutritional integrative for mental health, and gambling addiction. I have a particular expertise in working with families with addiction, trauma-based therapy, DWI, and those who have been incarcerated for substance abuse related crimes.
I have been practicing addiction counselor since 2016 in Hampstead New Hampshire. I primarily conduct telehealth but also have an office in Hampstead if you want in person sessions. I am trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, anger management, impaired driver service provider, Battery Intervention, Mindfulness, Nutritional integrative for mental health, and gambling addiction. I have a particular expertise in working with families with addiction, trauma-based therapy, DWI, and those who have been incarcerated for substance abuse related crimes.
(603) 463-0201 View (603) 463-0201
Photo of Silver Linings Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Hampshire
Silver Linings Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MLADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
I have been working in mental health and substance abuse field for 15 years and understand how hard it can be to work on your most vulnerable insecurities without seeing any hope or progress in sight.
I personally want to welcome you in taking the first steps to bettering your life and well being! My goal in therapy is to help and assist being the best YOU—whatever that means. Therapy requires you to give and take, and the more you are open and honest about your strengths, as well as your struggles, the more meaningful the process will be. My goal is for you to not only feel a reduction of negative thoughts, feelings, and behaviors; but to also find the “silver linings”, the little moments of comfort and hope throughout your therapeutic experience!
I have been working in mental health and substance abuse field for 15 years and understand how hard it can be to work on your most vulnerable insecurities without seeing any hope or progress in sight.
I personally want to welcome you in taking the first steps to bettering your life and well being! My goal in therapy is to help and assist being the best YOU—whatever that means. Therapy requires you to give and take, and the more you are open and honest about your strengths, as well as your struggles, the more meaningful the process will be. My goal is for you to not only feel a reduction of negative thoughts, feelings, and behaviors; but to also find the “silver linings”, the little moments of comfort and hope throughout your therapeutic experience!
(603) 803-6187 View (603) 803-6187
Photo of Kate R. Murphy, Psychologist in New Hampshire
Kate R. Murphy
Psychologist, PsyD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Thornton, NH 03285  (Online Only)
Kate has worked with a variety of client populations and has an interest in working with adults, adolescents, and children experiencing anxiety, depression, divorce, substance misuse, self-esteem, gender identity, life transitions, and relationship problems.
Kate Murphy has worked since 2008 with adults, adolescents, children and couples to help them overcome anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties and other life challenges. She is a licensed clinical mental health counselor and licensed psychologist with a Doctorate in Counseling and School Psychology from Rivier University. Her clinical work often consists of mindfulness based approaches and to help others become aware of the thoughts and behaviors that we experience that lead to much of what causes our distress.
Kate has worked with a variety of client populations and has an interest in working with adults, adolescents, and children experiencing anxiety, depression, divorce, substance misuse, self-esteem, gender identity, life transitions, and relationship problems.
Kate Murphy has worked since 2008 with adults, adolescents, children and couples to help them overcome anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties and other life challenges. She is a licensed clinical mental health counselor and licensed psychologist with a Doctorate in Counseling and School Psychology from Rivier University. Her clinical work often consists of mindfulness based approaches and to help others become aware of the thoughts and behaviors that we experience that lead to much of what causes our distress.
(603) 691-2842 View (603) 691-2842

See more therapy options for New Hampshire

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.