Photo of Joseph Marsh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Munhall, PA
Joseph Marsh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Munhall, PA 15120  (Online Only)
“It’s always best to believe in one’s self, but a little help from others can be a great blessing!” I view each person as the main character in their book of life. Each book contains stories of joy, sadness, exploration, struggle, and most importantly, HOPE. My goal to assist in exploring these stories, whether you encounter depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, intersectional struggles, or self-esteem issues. I am especially sensitive to those impacted by LGBTQ issues, religious minorities, activists, uniformed public servants, and those experiencing depression.
“It’s always best to believe in one’s self, but a little help from others can be a great blessing!” I view each person as the main character in their book of life. Each book contains stories of joy, sadness, exploration, struggle, and most importantly, HOPE. My goal to assist in exploring these stories, whether you encounter depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, intersectional struggles, or self-esteem issues. I am especially sensitive to those impacted by LGBTQ issues, religious minorities, activists, uniformed public servants, and those experiencing depression.
(412) 226-4125 View (412) 226-4125

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Matthew Berry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Munhall, PA
Matthew Berry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CADC, CASAC-2, CDBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15222  (Online Only)
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you having substance use problems? Are you having trouble with your identity? Difficulty managing emotions? Making changes can be overwhelming, but I am here to guide you through this journey. I will listen and give feedback. We will practice going over different types of techniques in order to improve your daily life and to reach your goals. This is a safe space that is nonjudgmental where you can feel comfortable to be who you are.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you having substance use problems? Are you having trouble with your identity? Difficulty managing emotions? Making changes can be overwhelming, but I am here to guide you through this journey. I will listen and give feedback. We will practice going over different types of techniques in order to improve your daily life and to reach your goals. This is a safe space that is nonjudgmental where you can feel comfortable to be who you are.
(484) 729-9490 View (484) 729-9490
Photo of Isaly Counseling Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Munhall, PA
Isaly Counseling Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LPC, RN, AT, CAADC
Verified Verified
Carnegie, PA 15106
ICA is a group of dedicated mental and behavioral health professions who offer counseling and substance abuse services to adults, children, couples, and families in a supportive environment. Our providers are highly qualified and experienced professionals who treat each client with compassion, dignity, and respect while helping each to work through areas of concern. We believe that help begins with a strong therapist/client relationship in order to achieve long-term results and as such, each approach is personalized and tailored to the specific need of the client. We have an additional office in Swissvale at 2033 Noble St.
ICA is a group of dedicated mental and behavioral health professions who offer counseling and substance abuse services to adults, children, couples, and families in a supportive environment. Our providers are highly qualified and experienced professionals who treat each client with compassion, dignity, and respect while helping each to work through areas of concern. We believe that help begins with a strong therapist/client relationship in order to achieve long-term results and as such, each approach is personalized and tailored to the specific need of the client. We have an additional office in Swissvale at 2033 Noble St.
(412) 369-4285 View (412) 369-4285
Photo of Rachel E. Willner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Munhall, PA
Rachel E. Willner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15212  (Online Only)
As humans, we’re all wired for connection, but unfortunately, many of us did not get our most basic emotional needs met in our early development. Do you find yourself struggling with interpersonal relationships, effective communication, or emotional regulation? Have you experienced traumatic or stressful events that have left you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unable to move forward in your life? Do you find yourself coping in unhealthy ways such as codependent behaviors, self-harm, substance use or isolation?
As humans, we’re all wired for connection, but unfortunately, many of us did not get our most basic emotional needs met in our early development. Do you find yourself struggling with interpersonal relationships, effective communication, or emotional regulation? Have you experienced traumatic or stressful events that have left you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unable to move forward in your life? Do you find yourself coping in unhealthy ways such as codependent behaviors, self-harm, substance use or isolation?
(484) 759-7459 View (484) 759-7459
Photo of Allison Conner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Munhall, PA
Allison Conner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
Mental health, addiction, and chronic illness all have something in common. They can be debilitating and create cyclical habits that are difficult to break. I work with motivated individuals who are willing to make a change in their lives for the better, examine their past and present experiences and feelings, and work to find healthier ways to cope.
Mental health, addiction, and chronic illness all have something in common. They can be debilitating and create cyclical habits that are difficult to break. I work with motivated individuals who are willing to make a change in their lives for the better, examine their past and present experiences and feelings, and work to find healthier ways to cope.
(412) 801-7202 View (412) 801-7202
Photo of Laura Geftman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Munhall, PA
Laura Geftman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232  (Online Only)
I provide support to manage trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, addiction, self-esteem, relationships, life transitions, & coaching for career challenges.
I am here for you. When times are tough, it’s important to have the right support to nurture hope, focus on strength, and harness the power of uncertainty. You can stop surviving and start living again. Together we can explore the darkness & the light, and find your way thru it. We will tailor an approach to support your intentions, needs, and goals. You will become more aware of your core beliefs and better understand your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. You’ll find our work to discover insight, self-acceptance, and freedom challenging but also profoundly supportive.
I provide support to manage trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, addiction, self-esteem, relationships, life transitions, & coaching for career challenges.
I am here for you. When times are tough, it’s important to have the right support to nurture hope, focus on strength, and harness the power of uncertainty. You can stop surviving and start living again. Together we can explore the darkness & the light, and find your way thru it. We will tailor an approach to support your intentions, needs, and goals. You will become more aware of your core beliefs and better understand your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. You’ll find our work to discover insight, self-acceptance, and freedom challenging but also profoundly supportive.
(267) 550-5130 View (267) 550-5130
Photo of Adam Bernstein, Licensed Professional Counselor in Munhall, PA
Adam Bernstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15212  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in mindfulness meditation, treating both substance-based and behavioral addictions, recovery from childhood and adult trauma experiences, anxiety and depressive disorders, bereavement, spiritual crises, and other life transitions.
Fulfilling our potential is a lifelong journey of becoming more at peace with ourselves, deepening the intimacy in our relationships, being more authentically human, and feeling more alive each day. Along the way, certain challenges arise to cause us distress or confusion. Such moments can make us feel held back, afraid, or unsure of where to go from here. But these moments can also be the points of growth and healing from which we renew ourselves in ways we did not think possible.
I have specialized training in mindfulness meditation, treating both substance-based and behavioral addictions, recovery from childhood and adult trauma experiences, anxiety and depressive disorders, bereavement, spiritual crises, and other life transitions.
Fulfilling our potential is a lifelong journey of becoming more at peace with ourselves, deepening the intimacy in our relationships, being more authentically human, and feeling more alive each day. Along the way, certain challenges arise to cause us distress or confusion. Such moments can make us feel held back, afraid, or unsure of where to go from here. But these moments can also be the points of growth and healing from which we renew ourselves in ways we did not think possible.
(610) 601-3637 View (610) 601-3637
Photo of David Juncos, Psychologist in Munhall, PA
David Juncos
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15220  (Online Only)
I work with people who experience symptoms from a wide variety of clinical disorders (Anxiety, Substance Use Disorders, AD/HD and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, and others) and common non-clinical problems (perfectionism, self-criticism and shame, problematic anger, marital or relationship distress).
Hi - my name is David Juncos, I'm a licensed clinical psychologist in PA & NJ. Thank you for visiting my page, I take great pride in being able to help people work through their issues successfully! I believe the best therapy is a combination of an empathic interpersonal style with the proper application of evidence-based approaches. Together, we will work towards accomplishing your goals at your own pace, in a comfortable setting.
I work with people who experience symptoms from a wide variety of clinical disorders (Anxiety, Substance Use Disorders, AD/HD and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, and others) and common non-clinical problems (perfectionism, self-criticism and shame, problematic anger, marital or relationship distress).
Hi - my name is David Juncos, I'm a licensed clinical psychologist in PA & NJ. Thank you for visiting my page, I take great pride in being able to help people work through their issues successfully! I believe the best therapy is a combination of an empathic interpersonal style with the proper application of evidence-based approaches. Together, we will work towards accomplishing your goals at your own pace, in a comfortable setting.
(484) 613-3489 View (484) 613-3489
Photo of Theresa M. Lee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Munhall, PA
Theresa M. Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
Monroeville, PA 15146
Waitlist for new clients
Not accepting new clients at this time. It is my professional and personal belief that individuals do not heal in an environment of shame and guilt. For this reason, I strive to create a non-judgmental atmosphere where clients feel safe to discuss their issues in an open and productive way. My specialty areas are substance use disorders (addictions) and trauma. Guilt and shame are two feelings that are frequently felt by those who struggle with addictive issues, and for those who have experienced trauma. My goal is to help clients and their families understand their issues and work toward a better life.
Not accepting new clients at this time. It is my professional and personal belief that individuals do not heal in an environment of shame and guilt. For this reason, I strive to create a non-judgmental atmosphere where clients feel safe to discuss their issues in an open and productive way. My specialty areas are substance use disorders (addictions) and trauma. Guilt and shame are two feelings that are frequently felt by those who struggle with addictive issues, and for those who have experienced trauma. My goal is to help clients and their families understand their issues and work toward a better life.
(878) 205-0582 View (878) 205-0582
Photo of Tomilyn Ward, Licensed Professional Counselor in Munhall, PA
Tomilyn Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MPC, EMDR, PCIT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Swissvale, PA 15218
I have worked with many moms who are struggling with addiction.
I specialize in EMDR. therapy. I also work with clients who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, and more. I have training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder. I also have experience with working closely with clients who have experienced traumatic births as well as birth workers and medical providers who witness traumatic births. I have attended over 30 births as a birth doula and I understand the process of birth for parents and providers.
I have worked with many moms who are struggling with addiction.
I specialize in EMDR. therapy. I also work with clients who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, and more. I have training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder. I also have experience with working closely with clients who have experienced traumatic births as well as birth workers and medical providers who witness traumatic births. I have attended over 30 births as a birth doula and I understand the process of birth for parents and providers.
(412) 837-8121 View (412) 837-8121
Photo of Jena Meneo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Munhall, PA
Jena Meneo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Waitlist for new clients
My areas of specialization include: Anxiety and Mood Disorders, Depression, Impulse Control, Relationships/Trust Issues, Self-Esteem/Shame, Trauma, Sexual Issues including Sexual Addiction/Compulsions, Internet Compulsions, Sexual Abuse, Sex Therapy, Anger Management, Stress Management, Eating Disorders, Grief/Loss, Substance Abuse, and Women's Issues.
Are you having difficulty making decisions, expressing your emotions, or struggling to improve your personal relationship(s)? Admitting we have a problem and working to change our behaviors can be a challenge. I use cognitive behavioral, humanist, and mindfulness-based approaches to help clients focus in the here and now while gaining insight into themselves. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who offers therapy designed to help you learn healthy coping skills and improve your well being. I do not offer evening or weekend hours.
My areas of specialization include: Anxiety and Mood Disorders, Depression, Impulse Control, Relationships/Trust Issues, Self-Esteem/Shame, Trauma, Sexual Issues including Sexual Addiction/Compulsions, Internet Compulsions, Sexual Abuse, Sex Therapy, Anger Management, Stress Management, Eating Disorders, Grief/Loss, Substance Abuse, and Women's Issues.
Are you having difficulty making decisions, expressing your emotions, or struggling to improve your personal relationship(s)? Admitting we have a problem and working to change our behaviors can be a challenge. I use cognitive behavioral, humanist, and mindfulness-based approaches to help clients focus in the here and now while gaining insight into themselves. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who offers therapy designed to help you learn healthy coping skills and improve your well being. I do not offer evening or weekend hours.
(412) 387-5170 View (412) 387-5170
Photo of Jennie Geisler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Munhall, PA
Jennie Geisler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Her training and background emphasize the years of experience in marriage/family work, trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction and handling difficult people in our lives w/ boundaries.
Wondering where to turn? Need a listening ear that will validate your pain and support you as you move forward? As an experienced therapist, Jennie has worked with those struggling with anxiety, depression, addictions, marriage, relationships, job difficulties, loss, disabilities, ADHD, & those living with personality disorders, addictions or difficult children. She also works in trauma as a certified EMDR(Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing)therapist. It's an evidenced based therapy that allows the individual to let go of the anxiety/pain that stays in the body after a trauma. An option is providing spiritually based therapy.
Her training and background emphasize the years of experience in marriage/family work, trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction and handling difficult people in our lives w/ boundaries.
Wondering where to turn? Need a listening ear that will validate your pain and support you as you move forward? As an experienced therapist, Jennie has worked with those struggling with anxiety, depression, addictions, marriage, relationships, job difficulties, loss, disabilities, ADHD, & those living with personality disorders, addictions or difficult children. She also works in trauma as a certified EMDR(Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing)therapist. It's an evidenced based therapy that allows the individual to let go of the anxiety/pain that stays in the body after a trauma. An option is providing spiritually based therapy.
(412) 467-0204 View (412) 467-0204
Photo of David Prybock, Psychologist in Munhall, PA
David Prybock
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
My areas of specialization include: Anger Management,Anxiety/Stress, Depression,Eating Disorders, Grief/Loss, Life Transition, Men's Issues, Pain Management, Relationships/Trust Issues, Self-Esteem/Shame Issues, Self Improvement, Sexual Issues, including Sex Addiction, Substance Abuse Issues, Trauma and Trauma-Related Issues, and Weight Management.
Do you want to improve your relationship, have less stress, or simply gain insight about yourself so that you can be happier and live a more fulfilling life? Change is difficult, especially when we try to do it alone. I am a Licensed Psychologist who offers individual and group therapy that are designed to help you be happier. My aim is to provide you with the knowledge and skills that will help you achieve change. Working together, we will utilize the strengths you already have and target those aspects of yourself that you want to change the most.
My areas of specialization include: Anger Management,Anxiety/Stress, Depression,Eating Disorders, Grief/Loss, Life Transition, Men's Issues, Pain Management, Relationships/Trust Issues, Self-Esteem/Shame Issues, Self Improvement, Sexual Issues, including Sex Addiction, Substance Abuse Issues, Trauma and Trauma-Related Issues, and Weight Management.
Do you want to improve your relationship, have less stress, or simply gain insight about yourself so that you can be happier and live a more fulfilling life? Change is difficult, especially when we try to do it alone. I am a Licensed Psychologist who offers individual and group therapy that are designed to help you be happier. My aim is to provide you with the knowledge and skills that will help you achieve change. Working together, we will utilize the strengths you already have and target those aspects of yourself that you want to change the most.
(412) 228-0094 View (412) 228-0094
Photo of Alyssa Renee Kirk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Munhall, PA
Alyssa Renee Kirk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15222  (Online Only)
I have experience with the following diagnoses: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, substance abuse, PTSD, and psychotic disorders.
I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania with 13 years experience in therapy. I also have a background in social work with expertise in linking individuals to community resources.
I have experience with the following diagnoses: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, substance abuse, PTSD, and psychotic disorders.
I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania with 13 years experience in therapy. I also have a background in social work with expertise in linking individuals to community resources.
(610) 890-6076 View (610) 890-6076
Photo of Anne Y Barbabella, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Munhall, PA
Anne Y Barbabella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
Waitlist for new clients
For over 20 years, I have worked in the field of mental health and addiction. I have extensive experience working with all disorders from mild to severe and specialize in working with the dual diagnosed (mental health and addictions) population; especially those suffering from mood disorders, anxiety disorders and trauma related issues. I am able to offer guidance and support to not only the client who is suffering but their family and support system as well. I believe that all people are capable of improving their life with hard work, openness and a desire for change.
For over 20 years, I have worked in the field of mental health and addiction. I have extensive experience working with all disorders from mild to severe and specialize in working with the dual diagnosed (mental health and addictions) population; especially those suffering from mood disorders, anxiety disorders and trauma related issues. I am able to offer guidance and support to not only the client who is suffering but their family and support system as well. I believe that all people are capable of improving their life with hard work, openness and a desire for change.
(724) 908-6202 View (724) 908-6202
Photo of Maria Del Toro, Licensed Professional Counselor in Munhall, PA
Maria Del Toro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15219  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Currently offering only daytime availability! Majority of my experience focuses on relational trauma, ADHD, communication skills, boundary setting, exploring/understanding historical trauma, couples counseling, first gen struggles/challenges, assisting Latinx clients with cultural issues, addiction challenges, BPIOC support, Neurodivergent support, life transitions, and reproductive mental health.
Currently offering only daytime availability! Majority of my experience focuses on relational trauma, ADHD, communication skills, boundary setting, exploring/understanding historical trauma, couples counseling, first gen struggles/challenges, assisting Latinx clients with cultural issues, addiction challenges, BPIOC support, Neurodivergent support, life transitions, and reproductive mental health.
(724) 860-3340 View (724) 860-3340
Photo of Stephanie M. Vargo in Munhall, PA
Stephanie M. Vargo
MA, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15218
I offer experience, compassion and respect to all clients. I have over 35 years experience as a psychotherapist specializing in existentialism, philosophy, Ericksonian hypnosis, the treatment of addiction, trauma and loss. I am a Reiki Master and am trained in other mind/body/energy treatment modalities. I have taught existential/phenomenological philosophy and treatment classes. I specialize in mind/body work and can teach you to manage stress, increase awareness, gain confidence and overcome obstacles in your life. I have a gentle and powerful demeanor that increases energy and motivation. I offer a non-traditional approach.
I offer experience, compassion and respect to all clients. I have over 35 years experience as a psychotherapist specializing in existentialism, philosophy, Ericksonian hypnosis, the treatment of addiction, trauma and loss. I am a Reiki Master and am trained in other mind/body/energy treatment modalities. I have taught existential/phenomenological philosophy and treatment classes. I specialize in mind/body work and can teach you to manage stress, increase awareness, gain confidence and overcome obstacles in your life. I have a gentle and powerful demeanor that increases energy and motivation. I offer a non-traditional approach.
(412) 253-4569 View (412) 253-4569
Photo of Jennifer Ann Barker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Munhall, PA
Jennifer Ann Barker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Monroeville, PA 15146
I have many years of experience helping people with trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, body image, self-esteem, and addiction.
Although we cannot change our past, we can acknowledge its impact and change how we view it and ourselves. While working with clients, I encourage expression to gain self-awareness and to reshape narratives. Expression is essential in everyday life, especially when working through difficult times, such as grief and trauma. I practice therapy with a person-centered, trauma-informed, strength based approach to meet clients where they are and to help them make changes to start the healing process. As an Art Therapist, I have the ability to bring artmaking into the therapy session and to help facilitate the healing process.
I have many years of experience helping people with trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, body image, self-esteem, and addiction.
Although we cannot change our past, we can acknowledge its impact and change how we view it and ourselves. While working with clients, I encourage expression to gain self-awareness and to reshape narratives. Expression is essential in everyday life, especially when working through difficult times, such as grief and trauma. I practice therapy with a person-centered, trauma-informed, strength based approach to meet clients where they are and to help them make changes to start the healing process. As an Art Therapist, I have the ability to bring artmaking into the therapy session and to help facilitate the healing process.
(878) 216-0445 View (878) 216-0445
Photo of Ashley Mudrinich, Licensed Professional Counselor in Munhall, PA
Ashley Mudrinich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, relationships, grief and loss, divorce, co-parenting, abuse, and addiction.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your mental health. It is often not easy navigating the stages of finding a therapist, and I applaud you for finding the strength to make the leap. I am here to make that leap as comfortable as possible, in a way that is most suitable to your needs. I am a person-centered, strength-based, and humanistic therapist. I look to help solidify what is good in a person and identify what can be modified in order to make someone feel more whole. My approach is warm, non-judgmental and genuine. Feel free to visit www.ashleys-counseling.com for more information.
I work with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, relationships, grief and loss, divorce, co-parenting, abuse, and addiction.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards improving your mental health. It is often not easy navigating the stages of finding a therapist, and I applaud you for finding the strength to make the leap. I am here to make that leap as comfortable as possible, in a way that is most suitable to your needs. I am a person-centered, strength-based, and humanistic therapist. I look to help solidify what is good in a person and identify what can be modified in order to make someone feel more whole. My approach is warm, non-judgmental and genuine. Feel free to visit www.ashleys-counseling.com for more information.
(412) 534-5661 View (412) 534-5661
Photo of Bridget Bauer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Munhall, PA
Bridget Bauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, CAAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
I work well with adults living with and healing from eating disorders, trauma, substance use, and struggles related to self-esteem and self-worth.
I believe that one of the bravest things that you can do is to understand your own story. You are the expert on yourself, and I would like to work collaboratively with you to understand and identify connections within your story. My therapeutic orientation is client-centered, strength-based, holistic, and eclectic. I tailor my approach to you and your wants and/or needs. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the foundation of growth and healing. I strive to develop an open, safe, and trusting therapeutic relationship with you.
I work well with adults living with and healing from eating disorders, trauma, substance use, and struggles related to self-esteem and self-worth.
I believe that one of the bravest things that you can do is to understand your own story. You are the expert on yourself, and I would like to work collaboratively with you to understand and identify connections within your story. My therapeutic orientation is client-centered, strength-based, holistic, and eclectic. I tailor my approach to you and your wants and/or needs. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the foundation of growth and healing. I strive to develop an open, safe, and trusting therapeutic relationship with you.
(412) 912-2961 View (412) 912-2961

See more therapy options for Munhall

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.