Addiction Therapists in Portland, OR

Photo of Mary Kevin Holdeman, MA, LPC, CADCII, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Kevin Holdeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CADCII
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
After spending over a decade working at a world renowned substance use treatment center, I feel confident in helping you address addiction and compulsive behaviors as well as related challenges such as grief, unresolved trauma, anxiety, and depression.
I have found that I work best with people wanting to honor their positive assets while making changes that will support new goals. Those feeling stuck, ready to dive deep, willing to do work outside of our sessions to create change in their lives. While my approach is gentle and respectful, I am ready to help you face your concerns frankly and honestly. I consider our therapeutic relationship to be the most important factor in our work together.
After spending over a decade working at a world renowned substance use treatment center, I feel confident in helping you address addiction and compulsive behaviors as well as related challenges such as grief, unresolved trauma, anxiety, and depression.
I have found that I work best with people wanting to honor their positive assets while making changes that will support new goals. Those feeling stuck, ready to dive deep, willing to do work outside of our sessions to create change in their lives. While my approach is gentle and respectful, I am ready to help you face your concerns frankly and honestly. I consider our therapeutic relationship to be the most important factor in our work together.
(503) 406-4826 View (503) 406-4826
Photo of Natalie Day, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Day
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating addiction, trauma, and clients identifying with BDSM and kink with experience in other areas.
Both early and later recovery present different challenges. While of the "heavy lifting" work happens in the beginning support is still needed while we discover who we are, who we want to be, and how we want to live the life that that we worked hard to save. Growth and self discovery can be wonderful while still coming with confusion, pain and uncertainty. We can be several different people over our lives and it is possible to integrate them all to feel actualized, fulfilled, and content.
I specialize in treating addiction, trauma, and clients identifying with BDSM and kink with experience in other areas.
Both early and later recovery present different challenges. While of the "heavy lifting" work happens in the beginning support is still needed while we discover who we are, who we want to be, and how we want to live the life that that we worked hard to save. Growth and self discovery can be wonderful while still coming with confusion, pain and uncertainty. We can be several different people over our lives and it is possible to integrate them all to feel actualized, fulfilled, and content.
(971) 309-1241 View (971) 309-1241
Photo of Paula Emerick, LMFT, CADC I, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paula Emerick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CADC I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include addiction and recovery, relationship dynamics (couples, poly, open, kink), LGBTQIAA identity, family of origin, SPMI, sex work, and healing from trauma.
I believe the most important parts of therapy are trust and collaboration. You'll know immediately if the therapist is right for you. If you don't feel it, keep looking. There's a lot of us therapists out here and your time and self-work are important! Additionally, at our most vulnerable times in life, we need someone who will hold a safe space for us to approach our edges - the parts of us we tend to avoid or neglect. Addressing our 'issues' is intensely brave and can also be terrifying! I commend you for embarking on this journey and invite you to call me if my words resonate with your needs.
My specialties include addiction and recovery, relationship dynamics (couples, poly, open, kink), LGBTQIAA identity, family of origin, SPMI, sex work, and healing from trauma.
I believe the most important parts of therapy are trust and collaboration. You'll know immediately if the therapist is right for you. If you don't feel it, keep looking. There's a lot of us therapists out here and your time and self-work are important! Additionally, at our most vulnerable times in life, we need someone who will hold a safe space for us to approach our edges - the parts of us we tend to avoid or neglect. Addressing our 'issues' is intensely brave and can also be terrifying! I commend you for embarking on this journey and invite you to call me if my words resonate with your needs.
(971) 260-4121 View (971) 260-4121
Photo of Eric Nada, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eric Nada
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
I have experience working with teenagers, couples, drug and alcohol addiction, survivors of domestic violence, those struggling with codependency, and those who just seem to have to struggle to keep up with the pace of life.
I am committed and interested in helping my clients strengthen their connections to others while simultaneously developing the tools to create personal feelings of confidence, strength, and fulfullment within themselves. Although I cater to each client specifically, my general plan of action consists of the immediate alleviation of symptoms, in concert with an in-depth look at related patterns established throughout the client's lifetime. In other words, first we can tend to the flower's blossom, but then let us tend to its roots.
I have experience working with teenagers, couples, drug and alcohol addiction, survivors of domestic violence, those struggling with codependency, and those who just seem to have to struggle to keep up with the pace of life.
I am committed and interested in helping my clients strengthen their connections to others while simultaneously developing the tools to create personal feelings of confidence, strength, and fulfullment within themselves. Although I cater to each client specifically, my general plan of action consists of the immediate alleviation of symptoms, in concert with an in-depth look at related patterns established throughout the client's lifetime. In other words, first we can tend to the flower's blossom, but then let us tend to its roots.
(949) 216-8062 View (949) 216-8062
Photo of Mike Grant - Aid Station Performance Therapy, LCSW, CADC II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aid Station Performance Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC II
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Mike will primarily utilize EMDR therapy and/or Brainspotting therapy to help people/athletes overcome common mental and emotional symptoms that can impede progress, performance, or welness. Example of these performance block can be: fear, uncertainty, intrusive thoughts, inability to execute muscle memory movements, feeling of being locked, stuck, or frozen, anxiety, inconsistency, avoidance, frustration and depression. I am also seeing people who have trauma and addiction backgrounds. I'd love to work together to bring awareness to causes of being stuck, and freeing yourself from these anchors.
Mike will primarily utilize EMDR therapy and/or Brainspotting therapy to help people/athletes overcome common mental and emotional symptoms that can impede progress, performance, or welness. Example of these performance block can be: fear, uncertainty, intrusive thoughts, inability to execute muscle memory movements, feeling of being locked, stuck, or frozen, anxiety, inconsistency, avoidance, frustration and depression. I am also seeing people who have trauma and addiction backgrounds. I'd love to work together to bring awareness to causes of being stuck, and freeing yourself from these anchors.
(503) 782-9339 View (503) 782-9339
Photo of Michael J Irvine, PsyD, Psychologist
Michael J Irvine
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I have had extensive experience working individuals as young as 16 around substance abuse and can support them and their loved ones as they begin examining this part of their lives.
I have experience working with individuals who have depression, anxiety, experienced trauma and/or currently struggling to cope with a range of symptoms that might include PTSD, shame, relationship stress, self-esteem, and addiction. I operate from contextual behaviorist approach as well as utilize Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) with my clients. I am also well versed in the 12-step recovery and have found that incredibly important in my work with individuals and family members affected by the disease of addiction.
I have had extensive experience working individuals as young as 16 around substance abuse and can support them and their loved ones as they begin examining this part of their lives.
I have experience working with individuals who have depression, anxiety, experienced trauma and/or currently struggling to cope with a range of symptoms that might include PTSD, shame, relationship stress, self-esteem, and addiction. I operate from contextual behaviorist approach as well as utilize Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) with my clients. I am also well versed in the 12-step recovery and have found that incredibly important in my work with individuals and family members affected by the disease of addiction.
(503) 386-0203 View (503) 386-0203
Photo of Ryan Leiderman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ryan Leiderman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Now accepting new clients who seek greater peace, joy, and clarity in their lives. I have experience helping adults and adolescents dealing with struggles like anxiety, depression, substance misuse, existential concerns, and relationship problems. If you are new to counseling or returning to the path, I congratulate you on taking this step and welcome you to contact me for a free 15 minute consultation.
Now accepting new clients who seek greater peace, joy, and clarity in their lives. I have experience helping adults and adolescents dealing with struggles like anxiety, depression, substance misuse, existential concerns, and relationship problems. If you are new to counseling or returning to the path, I congratulate you on taking this step and welcome you to contact me for a free 15 minute consultation.
(503) 713-6871 View (503) 713-6871
Photo of Karma L Brooks - Karma Brooks, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karma Brooks, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I AM CURRENTLY FULL, however am taking referrals from clients and colleagues. TELETHERAPY ONLY (VIDEO SESSIONS) UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. Karma is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and earned her Master's of Social Work from Portland State University. She has been working in the field of mental health and addiction services for the last 20 years. She works with adults, couples and adolescents. Her specialties include anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, impulse control, communication and addiction.
I AM CURRENTLY FULL, however am taking referrals from clients and colleagues. TELETHERAPY ONLY (VIDEO SESSIONS) UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. Karma is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and earned her Master's of Social Work from Portland State University. She has been working in the field of mental health and addiction services for the last 20 years. She works with adults, couples and adolescents. Her specialties include anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, impulse control, communication and addiction.
(503) 351-7969 View (503) 351-7969
Photo of Caleb Abrams, CSAT, CCTP, CLC, MA
Caleb Abrams
CSAT, CCTP, CLC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Caleb is Christian Counselor, a Certified Sex Addiction Counselor (CSAT), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), Ordained Minister, Certified Life Coach, with a Masters of Psychology in Counseling and a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology. 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), Ordained Minister, Certified Life Coach, with a Masters of Psychology in Counseling and a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology. 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.
(207) 259-4977 View (207) 259-4977
Photo of Joanne Baum, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanne Baum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
I partner with you to explore options and heal whatever is getting in your way & keeping you uncomfortably stuck. Our goal is to have you live the life you want to live, how you want to live it. I'm available for TeleHealth Sessions throughout Florida. If you want to tackle issues such as: Addiction, Codependency, Trauma, Sexuality, Unmanageable Stress and Anxiety, Gambling, ADD/ADHD, Feeling Intimidated by a Life Transition, Feeling Stuck, or wanting to make Personal or Career Changes, we can work together to meet your needs. I use Brainspotting, talk therapies, & a variety of treatment methods like CBT, MI, & DBT with you.
I partner with you to explore options and heal whatever is getting in your way & keeping you uncomfortably stuck. Our goal is to have you live the life you want to live, how you want to live it. I'm available for TeleHealth Sessions throughout Florida. If you want to tackle issues such as: Addiction, Codependency, Trauma, Sexuality, Unmanageable Stress and Anxiety, Gambling, ADD/ADHD, Feeling Intimidated by a Life Transition, Feeling Stuck, or wanting to make Personal or Career Changes, we can work together to meet your needs. I use Brainspotting, talk therapies, & a variety of treatment methods like CBT, MI, & DBT with you.
(971) 286-5071 View (971) 286-5071
Photo of Gabriela Rosales, LCSW, CADC I, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabriela Rosales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC I
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in providing compassionate and effective therapy for individuals facing a spectrum of challenges, including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and addiction. My therapeutic approach is rooted in creating a safe and empathetic space where healing can take place. Utilizing evidence-based practices and drawing from my extensive training, I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each client.
I specialize in providing compassionate and effective therapy for individuals facing a spectrum of challenges, including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and addiction. My therapeutic approach is rooted in creating a safe and empathetic space where healing can take place. Utilizing evidence-based practices and drawing from my extensive training, I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each client.
(503) 496-7609 View (503) 496-7609
Photo of Kelly Rees, MBA, PhD
Kelly Rees
MBA, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
I am a certified Sexologist and wrote my dissertation on teaching sexual health in recovery from addiction.
I focus on intimate relationships, sexual expression, disparate desire, shifting intimacy, alternative relating styles, polyamory. This often includes performance issues, the impact of aging and menopause, dealing with grief and jealousy. I have experience working with differing abilities and my clients range in age from mid-twenties to mid-nineties. I also work with those in recovery from drug/alcohol addiction and their specific issues around sex and relationships. I aim to engage the mind and heart while centering on the body. Pleasure is important and a great way to learn!
I am a certified Sexologist and wrote my dissertation on teaching sexual health in recovery from addiction.
I focus on intimate relationships, sexual expression, disparate desire, shifting intimacy, alternative relating styles, polyamory. This often includes performance issues, the impact of aging and menopause, dealing with grief and jealousy. I have experience working with differing abilities and my clients range in age from mid-twenties to mid-nineties. I also work with those in recovery from drug/alcohol addiction and their specific issues around sex and relationships. I aim to engage the mind and heart while centering on the body. Pleasure is important and a great way to learn!
(503) 917-3785 View (503) 917-3785
Photo of Taralynn Rayburn - Sisu Healing Partners, MSW, CADCIII, QMHP, CIP, LICSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sisu Healing Partners
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CADCIII, QMHP, CIP, LICSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
At Sisu we strive to help you and your family overcome the obstacles you face as a result of addiction or other mental health disorders.
Sisu Healing Partners provides therapy, sober companions, family coaching, interventions and sober transports. We are a team of highly trained individuals who strive to help guide your loved one on their journey to recovery. We work along side clients to help them create an environment that is safe for recovery. We believe that through healing the family system we can better support the individual on their road to recovery. Our goal is to create a creative and outside the box approach to recovery from use, eating disorders and other mental health disorders.
At Sisu we strive to help you and your family overcome the obstacles you face as a result of addiction or other mental health disorders.
Sisu Healing Partners provides therapy, sober companions, family coaching, interventions and sober transports. We are a team of highly trained individuals who strive to help guide your loved one on their journey to recovery. We work along side clients to help them create an environment that is safe for recovery. We believe that through healing the family system we can better support the individual on their road to recovery. Our goal is to create a creative and outside the box approach to recovery from use, eating disorders and other mental health disorders.
(503) 836-8858 View (503) 836-8858
Photo of Jenene Belshe, BS, CADCII, QMHA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Jenene Belshe
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, BS, CADCII, QMHA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
I am an expert in the field of drug and alcohol addiction. I offer you support and guidance while you navigate your journey to recovery. I create a supportive environment and give you the tools you need to rebuild your life, rediscover yourself, and transform your world.
I am an expert in the field of drug and alcohol addiction. I offer you support and guidance while you navigate your journey to recovery. I create a supportive environment and give you the tools you need to rebuild your life, rediscover yourself, and transform your world.
(503) 749-9012 View (503) 749-9012
Photo of Katheryn Cordova Jimenez, LCSW, CADC I, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katheryn Cordova Jimenez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I have been working with children, teens, adults, and families for the past 12 years. I provide individual and family therapy for mental health and substance use needs to people age 8 through 40. I have experience treating concerns related to substance use, adjustment, stress, insight, communication and motivation. Many of my clients have diagnoses related to trauma, depression, and anxiety.
I have been working with children, teens, adults, and families for the past 12 years. I provide individual and family therapy for mental health and substance use needs to people age 8 through 40. I have experience treating concerns related to substance use, adjustment, stress, insight, communication and motivation. Many of my clients have diagnoses related to trauma, depression, and anxiety.
(503) 563-8111 View (503) 563-8111
Photo of Robbie Bahl, MD
Robbie Bahl
MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
We are here to help with your mental health or addiction issues without the stigma or judgement.
At Shanti, we provide comprehensive mental health treatment. We specialize in dual diagnosis treatment for mental health issues and addiction. Our TMS therapy program treats depression in our clients using a new and unique technology. Robbie Bahl, MD is our medical director. He is a dual Board Certified medical physician, specializing in Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine. He performs Suboxone and Buprenorphine Inductions and Maintenance, Chronic Pain, Opioid Dependence, Alcohol Dependence, Vivitrol/Sublocade Injections, and TMS therapy for depression. We have a team of MDs, NPs, and therapists to work to for your wellness.
We are here to help with your mental health or addiction issues without the stigma or judgement.
At Shanti, we provide comprehensive mental health treatment. We specialize in dual diagnosis treatment for mental health issues and addiction. Our TMS therapy program treats depression in our clients using a new and unique technology. Robbie Bahl, MD is our medical director. He is a dual Board Certified medical physician, specializing in Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine. He performs Suboxone and Buprenorphine Inductions and Maintenance, Chronic Pain, Opioid Dependence, Alcohol Dependence, Vivitrol/Sublocade Injections, and TMS therapy for depression. We have a team of MDs, NPs, and therapists to work to for your wellness.
(503) 743-7966 View (503) 743-7966
Photo of Magda Permut, PhD, Psychologist
Magda Permut
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I specialize in treating PTSD, addiction, depression, and anxiety.
Impossible is temporary. As a relational psychologist specializing in issues like trauma and addictions, I have learned this time and time again. The combination of a supportive relationship, motivation to change well-worn patterns, and clear, concrete guidance can lead to changes far beyond what people believe is possible. Sometimes it seems "impossible" to live a deeper, more connected existence. We may carry scars of rejection and betrayal that keep us from being our truest selves. We heal in the context of genuine, warm, accepting relationships that also encourage us to take risks. I so enjoy building these relationships.
I specialize in treating PTSD, addiction, depression, and anxiety.
Impossible is temporary. As a relational psychologist specializing in issues like trauma and addictions, I have learned this time and time again. The combination of a supportive relationship, motivation to change well-worn patterns, and clear, concrete guidance can lead to changes far beyond what people believe is possible. Sometimes it seems "impossible" to live a deeper, more connected existence. We may carry scars of rejection and betrayal that keep us from being our truest selves. We heal in the context of genuine, warm, accepting relationships that also encourage us to take risks. I so enjoy building these relationships.
(503) 616-2040 View (503) 616-2040
Photo of Dave Hires, MA, CADC II, PCA
Dave Hires
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, CADC II, PCA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I graduated with a Master of Arts in Professional Mental Health Counseling—Specialization in Addictions from Lewis & Clark Graduate School of Education and Counseling.
We are born inclined toward love, growth, to live a meaningful life. When things happen to us that get in the way, we adapt in order to stay safe. Sometimes we adapt by denying parts of ourselves. Over time this can lead to disconnection and despair. I see my role as your guide - a safe support as you reconnect with these denied parts of yourself. Together we will help you toward a life that honors your lived experience, identity, emotions, strengths, values, relationships and community. To be more specific - my training and professional experience has focused on substance use disorder, trauma, grief and anxiety.
I graduated with a Master of Arts in Professional Mental Health Counseling—Specialization in Addictions from Lewis & Clark Graduate School of Education and Counseling.
We are born inclined toward love, growth, to live a meaningful life. When things happen to us that get in the way, we adapt in order to stay safe. Sometimes we adapt by denying parts of ourselves. Over time this can lead to disconnection and despair. I see my role as your guide - a safe support as you reconnect with these denied parts of yourself. Together we will help you toward a life that honors your lived experience, identity, emotions, strengths, values, relationships and community. To be more specific - my training and professional experience has focused on substance use disorder, trauma, grief and anxiety.
(971) 306-5158 View (971) 306-5158
Photo of Larry Venaska, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Larry Venaska
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97211
I have extensive experience treating addictions including process addictions (sex addiction, gambling, co-dependency, emotional eating) and substance abuse and specialize in family issues and conflict resolution.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed or hopeless? Can't get your needs met to your satisfaction? Do you find one or more areas of your life to be unfullfilling such as romantic relationship, work, parenting, extended family? Do you have legal or financial struggles or relationship conflicts that affect your mood significantly? I draw on a variety of therapeutic approaches, experience in working with past clients and personal experience to collaborate with you in creating the best healing environment specific for you.
I have extensive experience treating addictions including process addictions (sex addiction, gambling, co-dependency, emotional eating) and substance abuse and specialize in family issues and conflict resolution.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed or hopeless? Can't get your needs met to your satisfaction? Do you find one or more areas of your life to be unfullfilling such as romantic relationship, work, parenting, extended family? Do you have legal or financial struggles or relationship conflicts that affect your mood significantly? I draw on a variety of therapeutic approaches, experience in working with past clients and personal experience to collaborate with you in creating the best healing environment specific for you.
(971) 205-2892 View (971) 205-2892
Photo of Anna Lisa Couturier, LCSW, CADCI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Lisa Couturier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADCI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
Waitlist for new clients
I am certified to treat substance abuse as well as mental health issues.
My approach to counseling is centered on building a relationship with youth and families, adults, and couples that is based on dignity and mutual respect. I attempt to create an atmosphere of cooperation and equality in counseling, based on the belief that clients are the experts on their own lives and experiences, and that this expertise can be utilized in the process of making change. I believe compassion and authenticity are essential to forging a strong therapeutic relationship.
I am certified to treat substance abuse as well as mental health issues.
My approach to counseling is centered on building a relationship with youth and families, adults, and couples that is based on dignity and mutual respect. I attempt to create an atmosphere of cooperation and equality in counseling, based on the belief that clients are the experts on their own lives and experiences, and that this expertise can be utilized in the process of making change. I believe compassion and authenticity are essential to forging a strong therapeutic relationship.
(503) 451-6068 View (503) 451-6068
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.