Photo of Brian Serna - Serna Solutions LLC, MA, LPCC, LADAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Serna Solutions LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LPCC, LADAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Fe, NM 87507
Some of our specialties listed by staff: *Mary Evans: Child/Adolescents, CRAFT, Trauma, & Addictions.
Welcome! At Serna Solutions we look forward to helping you achieve your best self. We have specially trained counselors and social workers who can help individuals, couples and families deal with a wide range of issues. We are also one of the few organizations in the world who specialize in Community Reinforcement Approach and Family Training (CRAFT). CRAFT is the ONLY evidence-based practice approved as an intervention for assisting those who have a loved one struggling with an addiction. We can do CRAFT coaching in person or online for those who live outside of the New Mexico area. W
Some of our specialties listed by staff: *Mary Evans: Child/Adolescents, CRAFT, Trauma, & Addictions.
Welcome! At Serna Solutions we look forward to helping you achieve your best self. We have specially trained counselors and social workers who can help individuals, couples and families deal with a wide range of issues. We are also one of the few organizations in the world who specialize in Community Reinforcement Approach and Family Training (CRAFT). CRAFT is the ONLY evidence-based practice approved as an intervention for assisting those who have a loved one struggling with an addiction. We can do CRAFT coaching in person or online for those who live outside of the New Mexico area. W
(505) 333-0436 View (505) 333-0436
Photo of Marni Goldberg - To Be Found Counseling - Marni Goldberg, EdD, LPCC, Counselor
To Be Found Counseling - Marni Goldberg
Counselor, EdD, LPCC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87107
I believe that trauma is the precursor for many conditions including substance use, anxiety, and depression.
I have been a licensed counselor for over 20 years, and I have worked consistently in the mental health field in various roles including therapist, clinical manager, diagnostician, and instructor. I believe the key to meaningful and effective counseling is connection and that empathy, healthy boundaries, and proactively engaging in my own mental health processes have allowed me to be fully present and attuned with my clients.
I believe that trauma is the precursor for many conditions including substance use, anxiety, and depression.
I have been a licensed counselor for over 20 years, and I have worked consistently in the mental health field in various roles including therapist, clinical manager, diagnostician, and instructor. I believe the key to meaningful and effective counseling is connection and that empathy, healthy boundaries, and proactively engaging in my own mental health processes have allowed me to be fully present and attuned with my clients.
(505) 308-1980 View (505) 308-1980
Photo of Carolyn Burns, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carolyn Burns
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Fe, NM 87501
Do you sometimes feel alone and sad even with friends and family? Together, we can explore these feelings, transform them, and increase vitality. We will unravel issues that may be causing suffering or isolation; such as depression and anxiety, loss and grief, trauma, or substance abuse. We will face the dragons of suffering together, and unleash your wise and intuitive self to become empowered and embodied. Our work will allow you to remove the barriers to an emotionally close and satisfying relationship with yourself and others. This allows for a greater sense of joy & aliveness.
Do you sometimes feel alone and sad even with friends and family? Together, we can explore these feelings, transform them, and increase vitality. We will unravel issues that may be causing suffering or isolation; such as depression and anxiety, loss and grief, trauma, or substance abuse. We will face the dragons of suffering together, and unleash your wise and intuitive self to become empowered and embodied. Our work will allow you to remove the barriers to an emotionally close and satisfying relationship with yourself and others. This allows for a greater sense of joy & aliveness.
(505) 926-2017 View (505) 926-2017
Photo of Emory W Moore - Aspen Counseling, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Aspen Counseling
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Corrales, NM 87048
I now offer Telehealth as a treatment option. Just click my website to set an appointment online. I love to watch my clients flourish with beneficial change. Clients can learn to overcome your traumas and difficulties. Survivors of trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction, PTSD and abuse are especially welcome along with persons dealing with domestic violence or substance abuse. You will find me to be non-judgmental and open to hearing whatever your situation may be.
I now offer Telehealth as a treatment option. Just click my website to set an appointment online. I love to watch my clients flourish with beneficial change. Clients can learn to overcome your traumas and difficulties. Survivors of trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction, PTSD and abuse are especially welcome along with persons dealing with domestic violence or substance abuse. You will find me to be non-judgmental and open to hearing whatever your situation may be.
(505) 985-5382 View (505) 985-5382
Photo of Charles Austin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charles Austin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Fe, NM 87505
As a recovering alcoholic and drug addict with 35 years of recovery, I enjoy working with other recovering individuals. I have a wide range of treatment therapy expertise to address co-existing issues that often complicate recovery. My professional experience started in 1988 as a substance abuse counselor intern in residential treatment, with later work in outpatient, hospital, criminal justice and military programs where I eventually became a Clinical Director. While I support 12 step recovery, I also offer alternative approaches that are individualized to more closely align with client desires and motivation.
As a recovering alcoholic and drug addict with 35 years of recovery, I enjoy working with other recovering individuals. I have a wide range of treatment therapy expertise to address co-existing issues that often complicate recovery. My professional experience started in 1988 as a substance abuse counselor intern in residential treatment, with later work in outpatient, hospital, criminal justice and military programs where I eventually became a Clinical Director. While I support 12 step recovery, I also offer alternative approaches that are individualized to more closely align with client desires and motivation.
(505) 302-2867 View (505) 302-2867
Photo of Rochelle (Shelly) Young - Present Solutions, LPCC, LADAC, LPC, LISAC, Counselor
Present Solutions
Counselor, LPCC, LADAC, LPC, LISAC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87104
I am a mindfulness--centered psychotherapist and have worked very successfully with anxiety, OCD, addiction (alcohol, marijuana, vaping, shopping), panic, trauma, depression, phobias, impulse control issues, stress and other issues of suffering. Mindfulness-centered therapy works remarkably well even with the most difficult to treat issues. It addresses the root cause of emotional suffering, bringing you to a place of lasting inner peace and contentment. It will help you to deal successfully with the triggers that life continuously presents to you. To view my video and written testimonials, click on the website box above.
I am a mindfulness--centered psychotherapist and have worked very successfully with anxiety, OCD, addiction (alcohol, marijuana, vaping, shopping), panic, trauma, depression, phobias, impulse control issues, stress and other issues of suffering. Mindfulness-centered therapy works remarkably well even with the most difficult to treat issues. It addresses the root cause of emotional suffering, bringing you to a place of lasting inner peace and contentment. It will help you to deal successfully with the triggers that life continuously presents to you. To view my video and written testimonials, click on the website box above.
(505) 506-3886 View (505) 506-3886
Photo of Kumara Hampton, LPCC, LADAC, Counselor
Kumara Hampton
Counselor, LPCC, LADAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Fe, NM 87505
Some things I specialize in include trauma, addiction, and complex patterns.
Everyone is subject to have problems come up from time to time. Seeking out help is often not easy, and especially from someone you don't know. The fact that you are on this page is a big step to take, and I commend you for that step. If you are currently looking for support for anything from a life transition to something that has been a little more long term, my hope is that you will take the courageous step forward in facing your difficulty. My view on facing hardships in life is that none of us need to do it alone, and the only way over a difficulty is to go through it.
Some things I specialize in include trauma, addiction, and complex patterns.
Everyone is subject to have problems come up from time to time. Seeking out help is often not easy, and especially from someone you don't know. The fact that you are on this page is a big step to take, and I commend you for that step. If you are currently looking for support for anything from a life transition to something that has been a little more long term, my hope is that you will take the courageous step forward in facing your difficulty. My view on facing hardships in life is that none of us need to do it alone, and the only way over a difficulty is to go through it.
(505) 395-2982 View (505) 395-2982
Photo of Angela M. Barela, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Angela M. Barela
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Rio Rancho, NM 87124
I specialize in a variety of topics including, but not limited to, Managing Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Relationship Issues, Substance Abuse.
Life is full of challenges and difficulties; life can get overwhelming and stressful; this can throw us off balance. It can cause anxiety, depression irritability, mood and behavior problems. Counseling can be a powerful tool for gaining confidence within yourself, and it can give you the self-awareness to become a happier person. I emphasize skill building and insight from an unbiased perspective that can help you identify the problems and help you work to get where you want to be in your life.
I specialize in a variety of topics including, but not limited to, Managing Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Relationship Issues, Substance Abuse.
Life is full of challenges and difficulties; life can get overwhelming and stressful; this can throw us off balance. It can cause anxiety, depression irritability, mood and behavior problems. Counseling can be a powerful tool for gaining confidence within yourself, and it can give you the self-awareness to become a happier person. I emphasize skill building and insight from an unbiased perspective that can help you identify the problems and help you work to get where you want to be in your life.
(505) 560-2474 View (505) 560-2474
Photo of Eugene Hinojos, LCSW, LADAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eugene Hinojos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albuquerque, NM 87120
I am a trauma informed specialist, substance abuse practitioner and work with developmental disabilities and traumatic brain injury as well.
I work with anyone who is willing to address their fears and concerns with mental illness and trauma, even if they are not aware of what those are yet.
I am a trauma informed specialist, substance abuse practitioner and work with developmental disabilities and traumatic brain injury as well.
I work with anyone who is willing to address their fears and concerns with mental illness and trauma, even if they are not aware of what those are yet.
(505) 666-4298 View (505) 666-4298
Photo of Joan Heiden, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Joan Heiden
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Santa Fe, NM 87505
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in sand tray therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, addiction and recovery work, and trauma.
During the last twenty five years I have had the opportunity to support and guide many clients. I work with children, adolescents, adults and families. I have recently become certified in the Nurtured Heart approach which is designed to work with intense children and their families. I enjoy working with clients using a variety of modalities that include art, dream work, and trauma work. I look forward to working with you and discovering all that life and consciousness has to offer.
I am trained in sand tray therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, addiction and recovery work, and trauma.
During the last twenty five years I have had the opportunity to support and guide many clients. I work with children, adolescents, adults and families. I have recently become certified in the Nurtured Heart approach which is designed to work with intense children and their families. I enjoy working with clients using a variety of modalities that include art, dream work, and trauma work. I look forward to working with you and discovering all that life and consciousness has to offer.
(505) 835-1733 View (505) 835-1733
Photo of Xristopher Martinez - The Evolution Group, Inc, LPCC, LMHC, LCSW, Counselor
The Evolution Group, Inc
Counselor, LPCC, LMHC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87102
We also treat the co-occurring mental illness and/or substance abuse problems that often go with a gambling problem.
Problem gambling is one of the most hidden addictions in the U.S. due to the shame and stigma associated with gambling problems. Many people still mistake problem gambling for a moral problem or simply see it as poor choice making, rather than understanding the complex brain hijacking that problem gambling is for some people who can’t quit. Several neurotransmitters including dopamine, serotonin, glutamate, opioids, to name a few, are acting simultaneously on the brain during problem gambling.
We also treat the co-occurring mental illness and/or substance abuse problems that often go with a gambling problem.
Problem gambling is one of the most hidden addictions in the U.S. due to the shame and stigma associated with gambling problems. Many people still mistake problem gambling for a moral problem or simply see it as poor choice making, rather than understanding the complex brain hijacking that problem gambling is for some people who can’t quit. Several neurotransmitters including dopamine, serotonin, glutamate, opioids, to name a few, are acting simultaneously on the brain during problem gambling.
(505) 605-5123 x129 View (505) 605-5123 x129
Photo of Michelle Carr, PsyD, Psychologist
Michelle Carr
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Fe, NM 87501  (Online Only)
I graduated from CSPP in San Francisco and have advanced training in Addiction (including Adult Children of Alcoholics and Co-Dependency), Trauma (including EMDR and EFT) and Narcissistic Abuse.
Congratulations on taking the first step toward a deeper self awareness! I work with my clients to help them understand how personal challenges like anxiety, depression, addiction or trauma may be influencing their relationships, work, or daily life. My style is interactive, engaged, and non-judgmental while integrating the psychological, emotional, physical and spiritual well being of the whole person. I also feel that it is important to incorporate laughter into the healing process! Once we can find the humor in our human-ness it becomes easier to forgive ourselves and others as we move toward more authentic happiness.
I graduated from CSPP in San Francisco and have advanced training in Addiction (including Adult Children of Alcoholics and Co-Dependency), Trauma (including EMDR and EFT) and Narcissistic Abuse.
Congratulations on taking the first step toward a deeper self awareness! I work with my clients to help them understand how personal challenges like anxiety, depression, addiction or trauma may be influencing their relationships, work, or daily life. My style is interactive, engaged, and non-judgmental while integrating the psychological, emotional, physical and spiritual well being of the whole person. I also feel that it is important to incorporate laughter into the healing process! Once we can find the humor in our human-ness it becomes easier to forgive ourselves and others as we move toward more authentic happiness.
(831) 288-2302 View (831) 288-2302
Photo of James Curry - C. Curry Inc. dba Envisage Counseling, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
C. Curry Inc. dba Envisage Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87111
At Envisage Counseling we respect the strength and courage it takes to reach out when trying to bring change to some of the ways we are living our lives. Outpatient psycho-therapy is one way we can take care of our mental health. You are maybe struggling with difficult emotions, maybe behaving in response to them in ways you'd like to change. We have experience working with clients with substance use/abuse issues, anxiety, depression and trauma.
At Envisage Counseling we respect the strength and courage it takes to reach out when trying to bring change to some of the ways we are living our lives. Outpatient psycho-therapy is one way we can take care of our mental health. You are maybe struggling with difficult emotions, maybe behaving in response to them in ways you'd like to change. We have experience working with clients with substance use/abuse issues, anxiety, depression and trauma.
(505) 416-3065 View (505) 416-3065
Photo of Nicholas David Brown, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Nicholas David Brown
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Santa Fe, NM 87507
I have explored spirituality through meditation practices, sacred plants and nature, addictions through personal experiences and training, trauma through accidents and EMDR training, and practiced Ecopsychology because of a deep need to understand how humans might exist in healthier and more sustainable ways.
As an eclectic psychotherapist, I use many approaches, and have an ability to be deeply present with your experiences. I offer grounded, thoughtful, creative, playful, kind, and compassionate support. My desire is to assist you through challenges and help you find balance and healing. My mirror of reflection is through 15 years work in community mental health, with wide ranging mental health and addiction issues. I've experienced oneness, Christ Consciousness, transpersonal, and non-ordinary states, yet also my own drama and occasional trauma. I am here to help raise awareness, create options, and facilitate you finding your way.
I have explored spirituality through meditation practices, sacred plants and nature, addictions through personal experiences and training, trauma through accidents and EMDR training, and practiced Ecopsychology because of a deep need to understand how humans might exist in healthier and more sustainable ways.
As an eclectic psychotherapist, I use many approaches, and have an ability to be deeply present with your experiences. I offer grounded, thoughtful, creative, playful, kind, and compassionate support. My desire is to assist you through challenges and help you find balance and healing. My mirror of reflection is through 15 years work in community mental health, with wide ranging mental health and addiction issues. I've experienced oneness, Christ Consciousness, transpersonal, and non-ordinary states, yet also my own drama and occasional trauma. I am here to help raise awareness, create options, and facilitate you finding your way.
(505) 859-7344 View (505) 859-7344
Photo of Deb Frye, BSN, RN, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Deb Frye
Counselor, BSN, RN, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87110
Because there are times in many people's lives when circumstances can become overwhelming, I am dedicated to working with you to reestablish balance and discover your highest potential. Age groups from adolescence through older adulthood are my specialty. I work with a variety of concerns, including grief and loss, substance and alcohol abuse, anxiety, depression, issues with chronic illness and aging.Implementing a range of approaches that will best meet your style and enable you to meet your goals, combined with a sincere desire to help people, are the skills I bring to the client relationship.
Because there are times in many people's lives when circumstances can become overwhelming, I am dedicated to working with you to reestablish balance and discover your highest potential. Age groups from adolescence through older adulthood are my specialty. I work with a variety of concerns, including grief and loss, substance and alcohol abuse, anxiety, depression, issues with chronic illness and aging.Implementing a range of approaches that will best meet your style and enable you to meet your goals, combined with a sincere desire to help people, are the skills I bring to the client relationship.
(505) 488-0762 View (505) 488-0762
Photo of Rochelle (Shelly) Young - Present Solutions, MA, LPC, LISAC, LPCC, LADAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Present Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LISAC, LPCC, LADAC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87110
I specialize in helping those with all types of addictions and negative behavior patterns, ranging from sugar addiction, alcohol abuse and OCD to compulsive hair pulling.
I see wonderful results with the unique Unified Mindfulness System that I incorporate into my work. I bring to my work my own personal healing of a serious binge eating disorder/sugar addiction and other issues of suffering. I am also a researcher and involved with neuroscientists at the University of Arizona SEMA Lab and the Medical University of South Carolina, researching my innovative addiction/negative behavior change protocol. I have worked with seemingly hopeless individuals who have transformed their lives with my therapeutic approach. I offer my services out of a great sense of passion and deepest gratitude.
I specialize in helping those with all types of addictions and negative behavior patterns, ranging from sugar addiction, alcohol abuse and OCD to compulsive hair pulling.
I see wonderful results with the unique Unified Mindfulness System that I incorporate into my work. I bring to my work my own personal healing of a serious binge eating disorder/sugar addiction and other issues of suffering. I am also a researcher and involved with neuroscientists at the University of Arizona SEMA Lab and the Medical University of South Carolina, researching my innovative addiction/negative behavior change protocol. I have worked with seemingly hopeless individuals who have transformed their lives with my therapeutic approach. I offer my services out of a great sense of passion and deepest gratitude.
(520) 317-6752 View (520) 317-6752
Photo of Michelle Mullin, LPC-S, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Mullin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Las Cruces, NM 88012  (Online Only)
I have enthusiastically worked with individuals experiencing a variety of life struggles and mental health challenges such as domestic violence, grief and loss, addiction, depression, and anxiety throughout my career. I also have experience working with couples struggling with communication difficulties, infidelity, and emotional distance. Early on I chose to focus on trauma when I noticed both the prevalence of traumatic experiences in the lives of my clients, and the profound effects of untreated trauma. I am certified in EMDR to promote healing and and help clients build lives full of authenticity, purpose, and meaning.
I have enthusiastically worked with individuals experiencing a variety of life struggles and mental health challenges such as domestic violence, grief and loss, addiction, depression, and anxiety throughout my career. I also have experience working with couples struggling with communication difficulties, infidelity, and emotional distance. Early on I chose to focus on trauma when I noticed both the prevalence of traumatic experiences in the lives of my clients, and the profound effects of untreated trauma. I am certified in EMDR to promote healing and and help clients build lives full of authenticity, purpose, and meaning.
(210) 361-6336 View (210) 361-6336
Photo of Marianne Crom, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marianne Crom
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Farmington, NM 87401
Marianne Crom is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been practicing over 10 years. Her expertise is in providing EMDR therapy, working with couples and counseling for addictions. Much of her success is with helping adults who have experienced childhood sexual abuse or other forms of trauma, couples overcoming infidelity and families/individuals coping with addiction by learning how to lead a happy life. Clients have maintained sobriety and gone to college. Many have worked with co-occuring behavioral problems and found relief. Families have begun to understand the nature of addiction and how to cope with it.
Marianne Crom is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been practicing over 10 years. Her expertise is in providing EMDR therapy, working with couples and counseling for addictions. Much of her success is with helping adults who have experienced childhood sexual abuse or other forms of trauma, couples overcoming infidelity and families/individuals coping with addiction by learning how to lead a happy life. Clients have maintained sobriety and gone to college. Many have worked with co-occuring behavioral problems and found relief. Families have begun to understand the nature of addiction and how to cope with it.
(970) 426-0220 View (970) 426-0220
Photo of Caleb Abrams, CSAT, CCTP, CAIMHP, CASDCS, CCATP
Caleb Abrams
CSAT, CCTP, CAIMHP, CASDCS, CCATP
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87104  (Online Only)
Caleb is Christian Counselor, a Certified Sex Addiction Counselor (CSAT), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional (CAIMHP), Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (CASDCS), and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). Caleb specializes in helping men work through addiction recovery, anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. His passion is to provide a safe space for his clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
Caleb is Christian Counselor, a Certified Sex Addiction Counselor (CSAT), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional (CAIMHP), Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (CASDCS), and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). Caleb specializes in helping men work through addiction recovery, anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. His passion is to provide a safe space for his clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
(601) 436-3479 View (601) 436-3479
Photo of Mary F Baca - Odyssey Counseling, LLC, LPCC, LCSW, LMHC, Counselor
Odyssey Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LPCC, LCSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
Albuquerque, NM 87107
At Odyssey Counseling we focus on meeting people wherever they're at. Everyone falls down from time to time. For us counseling is a collaboration. We work with you to pinpoint problems and help explore ways to help you get to where you want to be. We have specialties including PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Acute Stress, Divorce, grief, parenting, relationship, and life transition issues. We have numerous programs including services for first responders and their families, and an IOP Substance Abuse/Trauma Program for women . We provide health and wellness programs to workplaces and offer an Employee Assistance Program.
At Odyssey Counseling we focus on meeting people wherever they're at. Everyone falls down from time to time. For us counseling is a collaboration. We work with you to pinpoint problems and help explore ways to help you get to where you want to be. We have specialties including PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Acute Stress, Divorce, grief, parenting, relationship, and life transition issues. We have numerous programs including services for first responders and their families, and an IOP Substance Abuse/Trauma Program for women . We provide health and wellness programs to workplaces and offer an Employee Assistance Program.
(505) 333-4316 View (505) 333-4316
1
...
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.