Therapists in Westchester County, NY

Photo of Alison Silver, Mental Health Counselor in Westchester County, NY
Alison Silver
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, CASAC, CCTP, ACS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Irvington, NY 10533
I’m a licensed and board certified psychotherapist specializing in the treatment of addiction and trauma. Much of my work has included working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families who are challenged by anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. In addition, I have experience working with the LGTBQIA community, conflict resolution, and eating disorders. Believing you are the expert in your life my hope is to act as a beacon of light on a path that sometimes goes dark. As a Credentialed Alcohol Substance Abuse Counselor(CASAC), I can help you and/or your loved ones work towards recovery and healing.
I’m a licensed and board certified psychotherapist specializing in the treatment of addiction and trauma. Much of my work has included working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families who are challenged by anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. In addition, I have experience working with the LGTBQIA community, conflict resolution, and eating disorders. Believing you are the expert in your life my hope is to act as a beacon of light on a path that sometimes goes dark. As a Credentialed Alcohol Substance Abuse Counselor(CASAC), I can help you and/or your loved ones work towards recovery and healing.
(347) 658-5375 View (347) 658-5375
Photo of Lisa Arrigo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westchester County, NY
Lisa Arrigo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mount Kisco, NY 10549
Areas of specialty include the treatment of anxiety, depression, eating disorders, as well as drug and alcohol addiction.
I am a psychotherapist who has been in private practice in for over 20 years. My professional experiences have given me a deep appreciation for our innate capacity to not only survive, but to transform difficult life events in ways that foster understanding, healing, and personal growth. For some, psychotherapy can provide a safe and nurturing environment in which to learn healthy coping strategies to better deal with the stressors of daily living. For others, it can provide a unique opportunity to work on a deeper level to address core issues related to family of origin, trauma, sexuality, and addiction.
Areas of specialty include the treatment of anxiety, depression, eating disorders, as well as drug and alcohol addiction.
I am a psychotherapist who has been in private practice in for over 20 years. My professional experiences have given me a deep appreciation for our innate capacity to not only survive, but to transform difficult life events in ways that foster understanding, healing, and personal growth. For some, psychotherapy can provide a safe and nurturing environment in which to learn healthy coping strategies to better deal with the stressors of daily living. For others, it can provide a unique opportunity to work on a deeper level to address core issues related to family of origin, trauma, sexuality, and addiction.
(914) 215-1872 View (914) 215-1872
Photo of Jeanine L. Klotzkin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westchester County, NY
Jeanine L. Klotzkin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Katonah, NY 10536
Anxiety, depression, trauma and addiction can be enormously challenging. They are often intertwined with physical issues and can disrupt lives, including the lives of the people around them. As a therapist with over 30 years of experience I can share the good news that healing is possible when given the right care. My expertise is helping people with complex issues get strong and move beyond the their past. I offer a deeply compassionate, non-judgmental presence, so clients can feel safe, hopeful and heal. My experience as clinical director, clinician and supervisor allow me to bring you the highest level of evidenced based care.
Anxiety, depression, trauma and addiction can be enormously challenging. They are often intertwined with physical issues and can disrupt lives, including the lives of the people around them. As a therapist with over 30 years of experience I can share the good news that healing is possible when given the right care. My expertise is helping people with complex issues get strong and move beyond the their past. I offer a deeply compassionate, non-judgmental presence, so clients can feel safe, hopeful and heal. My experience as clinical director, clinician and supervisor allow me to bring you the highest level of evidenced based care.
(845) 415-1640 View (845) 415-1640
Photo of Julie Pappalardo, Counselor in Westchester County, NY
Julie Pappalardo
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
White Plains, NY 10604  (Online Only)
Whether you're struggling with substance or alcohol abuse, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply feeling stuck, know that you are not alone.
Life can often feel complex and overwhelming, filled with roadblocks and challenges. However, you don't have to face these obstacles alone. Therapy can be a transformative experience, offering guidance and effective strategies as you navigate life's ups and downs. My role as a therapist is to support you as you embark on a journey of self-discovery and thrive amidst the pressures of modern living. Through therapy, we can uncover underlying beliefs and patterns that shape your daily experiences, providing you with the awareness and tools necessary for positive change and transformative relationships.
Whether you're struggling with substance or alcohol abuse, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply feeling stuck, know that you are not alone.
Life can often feel complex and overwhelming, filled with roadblocks and challenges. However, you don't have to face these obstacles alone. Therapy can be a transformative experience, offering guidance and effective strategies as you navigate life's ups and downs. My role as a therapist is to support you as you embark on a journey of self-discovery and thrive amidst the pressures of modern living. Through therapy, we can uncover underlying beliefs and patterns that shape your daily experiences, providing you with the awareness and tools necessary for positive change and transformative relationships.
(914) 814-6636 View (914) 814-6636
Photo of Mijin Kim in Westchester County, NY
Mijin Kim
DA, LCAT
Verified Verified
Hartsdale, NY 10530
Do you feel overwhelmed or insecure? Do you struggle with repeating patterns of negative emotions and relationships? Are you stuck with past and current trauma and utilizing unhealthy means to cope? Do you over-manage yourself or surroundings to have a sense of control? I specialize in helping teens and adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, eating disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, work stress, cross-cultural issues, couples, family, and other interpersonal issues. My work emphasizes helping clients understand and overcome their internal blockages, and gain empowerment to make intentional and impactful choices in life.
Do you feel overwhelmed or insecure? Do you struggle with repeating patterns of negative emotions and relationships? Are you stuck with past and current trauma and utilizing unhealthy means to cope? Do you over-manage yourself or surroundings to have a sense of control? I specialize in helping teens and adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, eating disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, work stress, cross-cultural issues, couples, family, and other interpersonal issues. My work emphasizes helping clients understand and overcome their internal blockages, and gain empowerment to make intentional and impactful choices in life.
(917) 746-7732 View (917) 746-7732
Photo of Lisa Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westchester County, NY
Lisa Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CASAC
Verified Verified
Hartsdale, NY 10530  (Online Only)
I'm a non-judgmental and compassionate listener who specializes in helping clients with their emotional and relationship difficulties, mood disorders, substance use issues and life transitions.
Are you dissatisfied with work, school, or relationships? Maybe something has happened recently that’s caused you to feel overwhelmed, sad or worried. Perhaps you aren't sure what's causing your distress, which has left you feeling scared, confused and alone.
I'm a non-judgmental and compassionate listener who specializes in helping clients with their emotional and relationship difficulties, mood disorders, substance use issues and life transitions.
Are you dissatisfied with work, school, or relationships? Maybe something has happened recently that’s caused you to feel overwhelmed, sad or worried. Perhaps you aren't sure what's causing your distress, which has left you feeling scared, confused and alone.
(914) 228-7948 View (914) 228-7948
Photo of Marilyn DiTullio, Counselor in Westchester County, NY
Marilyn DiTullio
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Katonah, NY 10536
Waitlist for new clients
I am experienced working with adolescents and adults with a variety of needs such as addiction, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, chronic mental illness, relationship issues and codependency, ADHD, difficult life changes, and emotion dysregulation.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with close to a decade of experience in the field. I provide a client-centered, safe, nonjudgmental space to help foster growth and positive changes. In my practice, I utilize an eclectic approach to meet the individualized needs of each person. My hope is to help people live their best lives.
I am experienced working with adolescents and adults with a variety of needs such as addiction, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, chronic mental illness, relationship issues and codependency, ADHD, difficult life changes, and emotion dysregulation.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with close to a decade of experience in the field. I provide a client-centered, safe, nonjudgmental space to help foster growth and positive changes. In my practice, I utilize an eclectic approach to meet the individualized needs of each person. My hope is to help people live their best lives.
View
Photo of Tara Maloney, Counselor in Westchester County, NY
Tara Maloney
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New Rochelle, NY 10801  (Online Only)
Emotions can be scary and sometimes overwhelming. I specialize in working with clients who suffer from mood and anxiety problems. I help my clients identify and cope with uncomfortable emotions and the thought patterns that accompany them. I've also worked with clients who have various needs which include, but are not limited to: relationship problems, parenting issues (including parents of children with special needs), depression, ADD/ADHD, stress, anxiety, and substance abuse.
Emotions can be scary and sometimes overwhelming. I specialize in working with clients who suffer from mood and anxiety problems. I help my clients identify and cope with uncomfortable emotions and the thought patterns that accompany them. I've also worked with clients who have various needs which include, but are not limited to: relationship problems, parenting issues (including parents of children with special needs), depression, ADD/ADHD, stress, anxiety, and substance abuse.
(914) 618-5810 View (914) 618-5810
Photo of Cynthia Wynn, Counselor in Westchester County, NY
Cynthia Wynn
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, CASAC
Verified Verified
Port Chester, NY 10573  (Online Only)
My specialties include substance abuse counseling, DWI/DUI assessments for court/DMV marital discord, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, personal growth, self-esteem, bi-polar disorder, suicidal impulses, stress, PTSD, domestic abuse and violence, trauma and identity issues.
I am an experienced, thoughtful and caring therapist that will help you overcome or work on any issues, problems or concerns that you are dealing with. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and I have worked with singles, couples, families, seniors, and adolescents. I am empathic and an active listener. I treat all of my clients with unconditional positive regard and respect. I do not believe in a one size fits all therapy approach. Every client is different and has different needs and that is my focus. I work with the entire person to help them improve their mental health and over all well-being.
My specialties include substance abuse counseling, DWI/DUI assessments for court/DMV marital discord, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, personal growth, self-esteem, bi-polar disorder, suicidal impulses, stress, PTSD, domestic abuse and violence, trauma and identity issues.
I am an experienced, thoughtful and caring therapist that will help you overcome or work on any issues, problems or concerns that you are dealing with. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and I have worked with singles, couples, families, seniors, and adolescents. I am empathic and an active listener. I treat all of my clients with unconditional positive regard and respect. I do not believe in a one size fits all therapy approach. Every client is different and has different needs and that is my focus. I work with the entire person to help them improve their mental health and over all well-being.
(914) 228-7984 View (914) 228-7984
Photo of Sandra Bernabei, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westchester County, NY
Sandra Bernabei
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ardsley, NY 10502  (Online Only)
Solution Focused therapist can meet anywhere in the world through videoconferencing and accepting most insurance. I am an antiracist psychotherapist/coach experienced in the work of liberation from the tyranny of addiction, depression and anxiety. I also work with people who simply do not get along. I'm happily married and successfully parented three children. As a Liberation Psychotherapist, I believe "the degree to which you assume 100% responsibility for your life is the degree to which you will be free!"
Solution Focused therapist can meet anywhere in the world through videoconferencing and accepting most insurance. I am an antiracist psychotherapist/coach experienced in the work of liberation from the tyranny of addiction, depression and anxiety. I also work with people who simply do not get along. I'm happily married and successfully parented three children. As a Liberation Psychotherapist, I believe "the degree to which you assume 100% responsibility for your life is the degree to which you will be free!"
(914) 920-2968 View (914) 920-2968
Photo of Kerry Michael Wallis, Counselor in Westchester County, NY
Kerry Michael Wallis
Counselor, LMHC, EMDR, CASAC-2
Verified Verified
Scarsdale, NY 10583
WE ARE NOW OFFERING IN PERSON AND TELEHEALTH SERVICES. For over 36 years, I have helped people of all ages overcome trauma, anxiety, depression and substance abuse. I am an experienced trauma therapist that utilizes a specialized technique (EMDR). I am LGBTQ affirming.
WE ARE NOW OFFERING IN PERSON AND TELEHEALTH SERVICES. For over 36 years, I have helped people of all ages overcome trauma, anxiety, depression and substance abuse. I am an experienced trauma therapist that utilizes a specialized technique (EMDR). I am LGBTQ affirming.
(347) 472-1091 View (347) 472-1091
Photo of Amelie Southwood, Counselor in Westchester County, NY
Amelie Southwood
Counselor, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Plains, NY 10601
I work with adults striving for healthy adaptation to painful life transitions, trauma, loss, and addiction recovery.
To accept life's major changes with grace and dignity can be excruciatingly difficult. And yet, it is a challenge to welcome because when approached with careful consideration, it invites self-definition and intentional living. Are psychic wounds or limiting self-beliefs holding you back? What matters most to you? The Chinese sage, Lao Tsu, said, "If you don't change direction, you will end up where you are heading." Are you happy with your direction? If not, come see me. I listen carefully and help you find your way. I am an active, fully-engaged therapist.
I work with adults striving for healthy adaptation to painful life transitions, trauma, loss, and addiction recovery.
To accept life's major changes with grace and dignity can be excruciatingly difficult. And yet, it is a challenge to welcome because when approached with careful consideration, it invites self-definition and intentional living. Are psychic wounds or limiting self-beliefs holding you back? What matters most to you? The Chinese sage, Lao Tsu, said, "If you don't change direction, you will end up where you are heading." Are you happy with your direction? If not, come see me. I listen carefully and help you find your way. I am an active, fully-engaged therapist.
(646) 362-8535 View (646) 362-8535
Photo of David M Goldsmith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westchester County, NY
David M Goldsmith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Salem, NY 10590  (Online Only)
Addiction is a serious problem.
One of the most important things to consider in choosing the right therapist is experience. In fact, it can make all the difference in receiving helpful and productive treatment. I am a well trained and seasoned therapist and have maintained a Private Practice in Ridgefield Ct. for the past 30 years. Due to the pandemic, my practice is now fully remote through Telehealth. My therapeutic approach is eclectic, practical and solution focused. As a long practitioner of yoga and meditation, I have expertise in utilizing and integrating the principals and techniques of mindfulness and meditation into the psychotherapy experience.
Addiction is a serious problem.
One of the most important things to consider in choosing the right therapist is experience. In fact, it can make all the difference in receiving helpful and productive treatment. I am a well trained and seasoned therapist and have maintained a Private Practice in Ridgefield Ct. for the past 30 years. Due to the pandemic, my practice is now fully remote through Telehealth. My therapeutic approach is eclectic, practical and solution focused. As a long practitioner of yoga and meditation, I have expertise in utilizing and integrating the principals and techniques of mindfulness and meditation into the psychotherapy experience.
(203) 916-4167 View (203) 916-4167
Photo of W D, Master Social Work in Westchester County, NY
W D D
Master Social Work
Not Verified Not Verified
Rye, NY 10580
I have spent several years working as an addiction counselor in the IOP clinic of a psychiatric hospital in Westchester Country, NY.
My clinical focus is PTSD, developmental trauma and addictive disorders. I combine traditional "talk" therapy with QEEG-informed Neurofeedback and EMDR, where appropriate. This offers you the best chance of healing past emotional wounds, alleviating symptoms, and living more fully in the present. The subtle, transformative power of Neurofeedback helps many clients resolve the traumatic stress, fear and anxiety that often underly behavioral and addictive disorders. EMDR is another powerful tool that can help resolve emotional trauma, improve functioning, and help you become more present-focused.
I have spent several years working as an addiction counselor in the IOP clinic of a psychiatric hospital in Westchester Country, NY.
My clinical focus is PTSD, developmental trauma and addictive disorders. I combine traditional "talk" therapy with QEEG-informed Neurofeedback and EMDR, where appropriate. This offers you the best chance of healing past emotional wounds, alleviating symptoms, and living more fully in the present. The subtle, transformative power of Neurofeedback helps many clients resolve the traumatic stress, fear and anxiety that often underly behavioral and addictive disorders. EMDR is another powerful tool that can help resolve emotional trauma, improve functioning, and help you become more present-focused.
(914) 996-4771 View (914) 996-4771
Photo of Steven Rivers, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Westchester County, NY
Steven Rivers
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCSW-R, CASAC
Verified Verified
Tarrytown, NY 10591
and have conducted about 3000 substance use evaluations for local courts and attorneys.
I work with individuals, adolescents and adults, who want or need to find their own path to inner peace and harmony without the use of alcohol or drugs, or the use of rage or isolation, or the creation of chaos as a distraction; people who wrestle with the parts of themselves that keep getting in their way. I also work with families who are confused how best to help a loved one who is abusing alcohol and other drugs.
and have conducted about 3000 substance use evaluations for local courts and attorneys.
I work with individuals, adolescents and adults, who want or need to find their own path to inner peace and harmony without the use of alcohol or drugs, or the use of rage or isolation, or the creation of chaos as a distraction; people who wrestle with the parts of themselves that keep getting in their way. I also work with families who are confused how best to help a loved one who is abusing alcohol and other drugs.
(914) 610-4347 View (914) 610-4347
Photo of Scott W. Stern, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westchester County, NY
Scott W. Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Speaker, Writer
Verified Verified
Katonah, NY 10536
I am an award winning mental health & addictions therapist; a former contractor for the CDC. Therapy integrates empowerment techniques into a spectrum of evidence based approaches tailored to suit your needs. Treatment is primarily focused on empowering clients with new cognitive perspectives, conflict management, self-reconditioning and behavior modification for mood disorders, substance misuse and addictive behaviors. Clients are encouraged to be proactive in therapy so we can build upon your strengths to develop new skills, an informed knowledge base (knowledge is power) & greater sense of autonomy. See www.SWS-Empower.com.
I am an award winning mental health & addictions therapist; a former contractor for the CDC. Therapy integrates empowerment techniques into a spectrum of evidence based approaches tailored to suit your needs. Treatment is primarily focused on empowering clients with new cognitive perspectives, conflict management, self-reconditioning and behavior modification for mood disorders, substance misuse and addictive behaviors. Clients are encouraged to be proactive in therapy so we can build upon your strengths to develop new skills, an informed knowledge base (knowledge is power) & greater sense of autonomy. See www.SWS-Empower.com.
(845) 302-3845 View (845) 302-3845
Photo of Leslie Robert Blumgold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westchester County, NY
Leslie Robert Blumgold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10601
I provide client centered motivational interviewing. Due to our current state of affairs, I am also supporting individuals struggling with isolation and medical concerns due to pandemic, as well as emerging from this crisis. I have extensive experience with family/adolescent, LGBTQIA+, HIV, geriatric population, drug treatment, sex/food addiction, formally incarcerated/legally involved, and life-coaching and long-term counseling. Excellent engagement skills and outcomes. In field for 20 years. Providing in/out of home counseling, as well as telehealth services. I am a highly supportive, working with and towards your unique goals.
I provide client centered motivational interviewing. Due to our current state of affairs, I am also supporting individuals struggling with isolation and medical concerns due to pandemic, as well as emerging from this crisis. I have extensive experience with family/adolescent, LGBTQIA+, HIV, geriatric population, drug treatment, sex/food addiction, formally incarcerated/legally involved, and life-coaching and long-term counseling. Excellent engagement skills and outcomes. In field for 20 years. Providing in/out of home counseling, as well as telehealth services. I am a highly supportive, working with and towards your unique goals.
(646) 496-2032 View (646) 496-2032
Photo of Courtney Carey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westchester County, NY
Courtney Carey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
White Plains, NY 10604
After receiving my graduate degree from Boston University, I pursued additional training in trauma focused cognitive behavior therapy, parent/teen mediation, addiction training, and motivational interviewing.
Have you wondered if you would benefit from therapy? I offer a complimentary consultation to discuss any questions you may have. As a senior therapist at Greenwich Psychology Group, I enjoy working with children and adolescents that may be struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral or family issues. You can talk to me about anything; nothing will surprise me. I am accessible to parents and easy to talk to. I focus on your child, recognize their strengths, and develop tools to become their own therapist by learning how to deal with challenges. Clients often feel better early on in treatment.
After receiving my graduate degree from Boston University, I pursued additional training in trauma focused cognitive behavior therapy, parent/teen mediation, addiction training, and motivational interviewing.
Have you wondered if you would benefit from therapy? I offer a complimentary consultation to discuss any questions you may have. As a senior therapist at Greenwich Psychology Group, I enjoy working with children and adolescents that may be struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral or family issues. You can talk to me about anything; nothing will surprise me. I am accessible to parents and easy to talk to. I focus on your child, recognize their strengths, and develop tools to become their own therapist by learning how to deal with challenges. Clients often feel better early on in treatment.
(347) 252-9013 View (347) 252-9013
Photo of Brian Belovitch, Pre-Licensed Professional in Westchester County, NY
Brian Belovitch
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Scarsdale, NY 10583
I work with people who are part of the LGBTQIA+ communities and allies. My work is rooted in gender-affirming therapy for those seeking exploration and support around their gender identities. I also work with those who are living with addiction and recovery. I work with clients who live, work and play under a cloak of secrecy; the outside world sees them as goal-driven professionals who have stable relationships and a host of family and friends. My clients hide their struggles with Depression, Anxiety, Low Self Esteem, and Substance Use. My clients want to live and love authentically.
I work with people who are part of the LGBTQIA+ communities and allies. My work is rooted in gender-affirming therapy for those seeking exploration and support around their gender identities. I also work with those who are living with addiction and recovery. I work with clients who live, work and play under a cloak of secrecy; the outside world sees them as goal-driven professionals who have stable relationships and a host of family and friends. My clients hide their struggles with Depression, Anxiety, Low Self Esteem, and Substance Use. My clients want to live and love authentically.
(646) 849-2704 View (646) 849-2704
Photo of Alyssa Sousa, Art Therapist in Westchester County, NY
Alyssa Sousa
Art Therapist, MA, LCAT
Verified Verified
Mount Kisco, NY 10549  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating individuals who have experienced or are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma and substance use.
Everyone deserves to have space for themselves. I believe that the therapeutic space is highly valuable for personal growth, the development of further insights and a place to find support. Whether you are seeking therapy to address a specific concern, or looking to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, therapy can offer you a space to be seen and heard in a genuine, meaningful way. My practice comes from both a psychoanalytic approach as well as from a creative lens. I offer a safe and non-judgmental space where you can express yourself fully and honestly.
I specialize in treating individuals who have experienced or are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma and substance use.
Everyone deserves to have space for themselves. I believe that the therapeutic space is highly valuable for personal growth, the development of further insights and a place to find support. Whether you are seeking therapy to address a specific concern, or looking to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, therapy can offer you a space to be seen and heard in a genuine, meaningful way. My practice comes from both a psychoanalytic approach as well as from a creative lens. I offer a safe and non-judgmental space where you can express yourself fully and honestly.
(347) 934-4381 View (347) 934-4381

See more therapy options for Westchester County


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.