Photo of Prime Counseling , Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Prime Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, NCC, MBA, EMDR
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75240
It is common for our clients to be struggling with active addiction, self-harm, suicidal ideation, broken relationships, psychiatric hospital visits, illegal activity, sexual assault, etc.
We are experts at helping you heal from unwanted and unhealthy behaviors. Our team specializes in distinct behaviors and diagnoses that allow us to treat what you are struggling with. Our clients have typically been to multiple treatment centers, therapists, psychologists, hospitals, etc. and none have been able to completely understand. Collaboration is a strong focus to ensure that both you as an individual and your family unit sprint towards a healthy state. We often have calls with psychiatrists, other therapists, recovery coaches, and family members to ensure we fully understand the history and current state.
It is common for our clients to be struggling with active addiction, self-harm, suicidal ideation, broken relationships, psychiatric hospital visits, illegal activity, sexual assault, etc.
We are experts at helping you heal from unwanted and unhealthy behaviors. Our team specializes in distinct behaviors and diagnoses that allow us to treat what you are struggling with. Our clients have typically been to multiple treatment centers, therapists, psychologists, hospitals, etc. and none have been able to completely understand. Collaboration is a strong focus to ensure that both you as an individual and your family unit sprint towards a healthy state. We often have calls with psychiatrists, other therapists, recovery coaches, and family members to ensure we fully understand the history and current state.
(469) 824-9847 View (469) 824-9847
Photo of Karishma Sarfani, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Karishma Sarfani
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCDC, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75254  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with chronic relapse, binges, sex/love/porn addiction, excess substance use, dissociative disorder, or attachment issues? Do you want to decrease your urge to vape, smoke marijuana/nicotine, or drink? Have you experienced social phobia, one or more addictions, sexual abuse, or trauma? Are you suffering from grief and loss or complex PTSD?
Are you struggling with chronic relapse, binges, sex/love/porn addiction, excess substance use, dissociative disorder, or attachment issues? Do you want to decrease your urge to vape, smoke marijuana/nicotine, or drink? Have you experienced social phobia, one or more addictions, sexual abuse, or trauma? Are you suffering from grief and loss or complex PTSD?
(432) 237-3463 View (432) 237-3463
Photo of Nicholas Ciancioso, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Nicholas Ciancioso
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201  (Online Only)
I have worked with a variety of populations including foster care children, incarcerated teenage males, adults with substance use issues, adults with chronic mental health issues, college students, and adolescents with eating disorders.
Greetings and thank you for giving me the opportunity to describe my therapy practice! My approach is one where I see myself as a guide alongside you in your journey toward reaching your goals. You are the expert on yourself! I see my role in our therapeutic relationship as being able to help aid you in feeling understood, gaining insight, and learning new skills to manage the challenges you are going through and will go through in the future.
I have worked with a variety of populations including foster care children, incarcerated teenage males, adults with substance use issues, adults with chronic mental health issues, college students, and adolescents with eating disorders.
Greetings and thank you for giving me the opportunity to describe my therapy practice! My approach is one where I see myself as a guide alongside you in your journey toward reaching your goals. You are the expert on yourself! I see my role in our therapeutic relationship as being able to help aid you in feeling understood, gaining insight, and learning new skills to manage the challenges you are going through and will go through in the future.
(214) 664-9541 View (214) 664-9541
Photo of Melissa Fowler, LPC Associate in Dallas, TX
Melissa Fowler
LPC Associate, MS, NCC, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75208
I am here to help you achieve the changes you want to make in your world! With the challenges life throws at us, it is a very personal task to find someone who knows what you are going through and will be able to help you heal. I have experience in helping people through trauma such as abuse, domestic violence, and others along with depression, grief, and addiction. Through a collaborative effort we will work together to face the goals you make and make the changes you want to see in your life.
I am here to help you achieve the changes you want to make in your world! With the challenges life throws at us, it is a very personal task to find someone who knows what you are going through and will be able to help you heal. I have experience in helping people through trauma such as abuse, domestic violence, and others along with depression, grief, and addiction. Through a collaborative effort we will work together to face the goals you make and make the changes you want to see in your life.
(855) 971-0618 View (855) 971-0618
Photo of John Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
John Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC, CSAT, CMAT, NCIP
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75205
Born and raised in Dallas, Texas, I struggled with drug and alcohol addiction at an early age. Today, I am proud to say that I have maintained sobriety since 2008. My desire to help others launched me into an academic and career path focused on helping those and their families impacted with addiction and mental health issues. I have worked in several different treatment settings, such as hospitals, residential treatment, and sober living. I utilize several different modalities and approaches to therapy to work with individuals, couples, and families. I also do interventions on those battling any addiction.
Born and raised in Dallas, Texas, I struggled with drug and alcohol addiction at an early age. Today, I am proud to say that I have maintained sobriety since 2008. My desire to help others launched me into an academic and career path focused on helping those and their families impacted with addiction and mental health issues. I have worked in several different treatment settings, such as hospitals, residential treatment, and sober living. I utilize several different modalities and approaches to therapy to work with individuals, couples, and families. I also do interventions on those battling any addiction.
(214) 538-4088 View (214) 538-4088
Photo of Bruce W Cameron, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Bruce W Cameron
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, LSOTP-S
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75243
The mission is to provide quality counseling/consulting services in an atmosphere that is friendly pleasant and efficient. My primary clientele are adolescents, adults, and families that are seeking services related to substance use disorders, compulsive internet abuse, sexual offending/issues, ADHD issues, and criminal offenses. I assist clients in their journey toward positive self-growth and psychological development. Stress is a fact of life, but you may have stress conditions that go beyond the usual. Sober and Recovery Coaching services are also offered.
The mission is to provide quality counseling/consulting services in an atmosphere that is friendly pleasant and efficient. My primary clientele are adolescents, adults, and families that are seeking services related to substance use disorders, compulsive internet abuse, sexual offending/issues, ADHD issues, and criminal offenses. I assist clients in their journey toward positive self-growth and psychological development. Stress is a fact of life, but you may have stress conditions that go beyond the usual. Sober and Recovery Coaching services are also offered.
(214) 431-2032 View (214) 431-2032
Photo of Jonathan Pruitt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Jonathan Pruitt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, NCC, EMDR, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252
My passion lies in empowering clients to overcome obstacles and realize their full potential, whether addressing addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and/or trauma, I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for exploration and transformation. Through individual and group therapy modalities, I strive to foster resilience, self-awareness, and meaningful connections, guiding each individual towards a life of fulfillment and well-being.
My passion lies in empowering clients to overcome obstacles and realize their full potential, whether addressing addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and/or trauma, I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for exploration and transformation. Through individual and group therapy modalities, I strive to foster resilience, self-awareness, and meaningful connections, guiding each individual towards a life of fulfillment and well-being.
(469) 772-6864 View (469) 772-6864
Photo of Juan Zambrano, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Juan Zambrano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSAT(C), EMDR
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75209
My areas of specialization include addiction, trauma, boundaries, codependency, anxiety, depression, relational & emotional intelligence.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor seeing clients in person at my office in Dallas, Texas; as well as online across the state of Texas. I believe in the importance of a strong therapeutic relationship and meet each client with warmth and curiosity. So many of us go through life thinking no one else is experiencing the same things we are. The truth is, so many of us experience a range of emotions, from anxiety to sadness, to loneliness. Finding the appropriate therapist who can help you understand these emotions and properly process them can be life changing and pivotal to helping you reach your goals. I welcome all of you!
My areas of specialization include addiction, trauma, boundaries, codependency, anxiety, depression, relational & emotional intelligence.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor seeing clients in person at my office in Dallas, Texas; as well as online across the state of Texas. I believe in the importance of a strong therapeutic relationship and meet each client with warmth and curiosity. So many of us go through life thinking no one else is experiencing the same things we are. The truth is, so many of us experience a range of emotions, from anxiety to sadness, to loneliness. Finding the appropriate therapist who can help you understand these emotions and properly process them can be life changing and pivotal to helping you reach your goals. I welcome all of you!
(469) 871-6220 x9 View (469) 871-6220 x9
Photo of Woodcrest Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Woodcrest Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243
My counseling practice focuses on adolescent and adults with a specialized focus on LGBTQ+ populations. As a gay man, I am held by deeply spiritual beliefs to help my LGBTQ+ community whenever possible. I also treat addiction, dual-diagnosis, spirituality, anxiety, gender identity, depression, divorce, grief and those who are recovering from religious abuse. I meet clients where they are in life and that is always my starting point while building a relationship to facilitate change.
My counseling practice focuses on adolescent and adults with a specialized focus on LGBTQ+ populations. As a gay man, I am held by deeply spiritual beliefs to help my LGBTQ+ community whenever possible. I also treat addiction, dual-diagnosis, spirituality, anxiety, gender identity, depression, divorce, grief and those who are recovering from religious abuse. I meet clients where they are in life and that is always my starting point while building a relationship to facilitate change.
(469) 654-4027 View (469) 654-4027
Photo of Dr. Michael Contreras, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Dr. Michael Contreras
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC, ADC, ICADC, DOT-SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75208  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Department of Transportation Substance Abuse Professional.
My client population includes children, adolescents and adults. I work with individuals as well as families. I facilitate numerous groups and skills training curriculum in various topics including adolescent first offenders, anger management, divorce and separation, parenting, and teen issues.
Department of Transportation Substance Abuse Professional.
My client population includes children, adolescents and adults. I work with individuals as well as families. I facilitate numerous groups and skills training curriculum in various topics including adolescent first offenders, anger management, divorce and separation, parenting, and teen issues.
(817) 849-6835 View (817) 849-6835
Photo of Audrey H Atkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Audrey H Atkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75209
Treatment specializations include: Addiction & Recovery (Drug, Alcohol, Food, Sex, Gambling, Exercise, Work, Religion, etc.
As a top honors graduate from Texas Wesleyan University, I have been trained by some of the best licensed professionals in the mental health field today. Having done my graduate practicum at Sante Center for Healing, I learned that treating clients from a holistic perspective gives them the skills they need in all areas to address their greatest concerns. As a client of mine, you will be asked to be an active participant in your therapy. The vast majority of my clients report more happiness and positive changes in their lives after only a short time as my client.
Treatment specializations include: Addiction & Recovery (Drug, Alcohol, Food, Sex, Gambling, Exercise, Work, Religion, etc.
As a top honors graduate from Texas Wesleyan University, I have been trained by some of the best licensed professionals in the mental health field today. Having done my graduate practicum at Sante Center for Healing, I learned that treating clients from a holistic perspective gives them the skills they need in all areas to address their greatest concerns. As a client of mine, you will be asked to be an active participant in your therapy. The vast majority of my clients report more happiness and positive changes in their lives after only a short time as my client.
(940) 294-8001 View (940) 294-8001
Photo of Sean Blackburn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Sean Blackburn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75204
I am a licensed professional counselor in private practice. I am currently in network with Aetna, Cigna, and United Healthcare; I also offer private pay sessions. I specialize in individual therapy with adults dealing with anxiety, depression, and addiction. I work from a psychodynamic perspective in therapy which means that I am interested in unconscious motivations that could be contributing to dissatisfaction in life. I take great interest in dreams and recurring fantasies and see them as useful in therapy if the client ever wants to process them.
I am a licensed professional counselor in private practice. I am currently in network with Aetna, Cigna, and United Healthcare; I also offer private pay sessions. I specialize in individual therapy with adults dealing with anxiety, depression, and addiction. I work from a psychodynamic perspective in therapy which means that I am interested in unconscious motivations that could be contributing to dissatisfaction in life. I take great interest in dreams and recurring fantasies and see them as useful in therapy if the client ever wants to process them.
(972) 992-1893 View (972) 992-1893
Photo of Shawn Wood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
Shawn Wood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RSW, CYC-P
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201  (Online Only)
In 2017, Shawn completed his Master's in Social Work at the University of Waterloo in Canada. For over a decade, he has been assisting children, youth, and families dealing with mental health and addiction issues. One of Shawn's most fulfilling therapeutic approaches is Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT). ACT serves as a guide, helping people navigate the challenges of life. It teaches us to accept our thoughts and emotions without judgment. By aligning with our core values, ACT empowers us to take meaningful actions that lead to personal growth and a stronger sense of purpose.
In 2017, Shawn completed his Master's in Social Work at the University of Waterloo in Canada. For over a decade, he has been assisting children, youth, and families dealing with mental health and addiction issues. One of Shawn's most fulfilling therapeutic approaches is Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT). ACT serves as a guide, helping people navigate the challenges of life. It teaches us to accept our thoughts and emotions without judgment. By aligning with our core values, ACT empowers us to take meaningful actions that lead to personal growth and a stronger sense of purpose.
(512) 812-8445 View (512) 812-8445
Photo of Sober Cross, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Sober Cross
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75201  (Online Only)
Utilizing the latest evidence based treatment for Alcoholism and Substance Use Disorders coupled with a strong foundation in faith. Recovery that is faith based counseling. Our Treatment Focus Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths needed to overcome their alcoholism and addictions. A strong foundation in faith with an evidenced based Cognitive Behavioral Treatment. Sober Cross is committed to insuring that you are not alone during your recovery treatment Counseling!
Utilizing the latest evidence based treatment for Alcoholism and Substance Use Disorders coupled with a strong foundation in faith. Recovery that is faith based counseling. Our Treatment Focus Our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths needed to overcome their alcoholism and addictions. A strong foundation in faith with an evidenced based Cognitive Behavioral Treatment. Sober Cross is committed to insuring that you are not alone during your recovery treatment Counseling!
(346) 567-6659 View (346) 567-6659
Photo of Collin Speciale, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Collin Speciale
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75225  (Online Only)
It takes a lot of courage to seek out mental health services, I'm glad you found my page! I'm eager to help individuals, couples, or families seeking support for Substance Use Disorders, Anxiety and Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Personality Disorders, Simple or Complex Traumas, or any type of Relationship Issues. Additionally, our work could include improving self-esteem, self-worth, communication and boundaries in relationships, grief and loss, direction in school, career, or difficult life decisions that you'd like to work on, work through, or resolve.
It takes a lot of courage to seek out mental health services, I'm glad you found my page! I'm eager to help individuals, couples, or families seeking support for Substance Use Disorders, Anxiety and Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Personality Disorders, Simple or Complex Traumas, or any type of Relationship Issues. Additionally, our work could include improving self-esteem, self-worth, communication and boundaries in relationships, grief and loss, direction in school, career, or difficult life decisions that you'd like to work on, work through, or resolve.
(512) 234-4849 View (512) 234-4849
Photo of Cody McCain, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
Cody McCain
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75287
I see clients of all ages, for therapy and testing/evaluations. I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse/dependence, behavior disorders and family systems issues. Most of my clients present with a combination of symptoms. I tailor treatment to the specific needs of the client and use research proven techniques to meet the needs of the individual, or family, in a collaborative setting. I teach healthy coping skills to address a wide range of symptoms.
I see clients of all ages, for therapy and testing/evaluations. I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse/dependence, behavior disorders and family systems issues. Most of my clients present with a combination of symptoms. I tailor treatment to the specific needs of the client and use research proven techniques to meet the needs of the individual, or family, in a collaborative setting. I teach healthy coping skills to address a wide range of symptoms.
(214) 960-2550 View (214) 960-2550
Photo of ACE T. Counseling & Wellness Center, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
ACE T. Counseling & Wellness Center, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75228
I have an excellent record of successful work on several disorders including Depression, Anxiety/Phobia, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders, Anger, Grief, & ADHD/ADD, Addiction, Behavioral Issues, Eating Disorders, Life Coaching, Marital and Premarital, Obesity, Oppositional Defiance, Parenting, Relationship Issues, School Issues, Self Esteem, & Self-Harming.
My mission is to help all my clients make quality improvements in their lives. I have years of experience in individual, family, couple, and group counseling. I integrate several forms of psychotherapy approaches such as Internal Family System, BrainSpotting, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioral therapy (TB-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and more, to tailor treatment to my clients' individual needs. My intervention styles and commitment to my clients' total wellness help them achieve the successful resolution of their underlying issues and traumatic reactions.
I have an excellent record of successful work on several disorders including Depression, Anxiety/Phobia, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders, Anger, Grief, & ADHD/ADD, Addiction, Behavioral Issues, Eating Disorders, Life Coaching, Marital and Premarital, Obesity, Oppositional Defiance, Parenting, Relationship Issues, School Issues, Self Esteem, & Self-Harming.
My mission is to help all my clients make quality improvements in their lives. I have years of experience in individual, family, couple, and group counseling. I integrate several forms of psychotherapy approaches such as Internal Family System, BrainSpotting, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioral therapy (TB-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and more, to tailor treatment to my clients' individual needs. My intervention styles and commitment to my clients' total wellness help them achieve the successful resolution of their underlying issues and traumatic reactions.
(972) 441-7349 View (972) 441-7349
Photo of Pam Mesker Pierce in Dallas, TX
Pam Mesker Pierce
MA, MS, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75218
Experience includes 12-Step programs, addiction recovery, marital, grief, boundaries, divorce, codependency, inner child, psychodrama, sex and love addiction, trauma, time management, coaching, career, financial and pastoral counseling.
The clients that work best with me are ready to identify obstacles that are preventing them from living a juicy and fulfilling life. I guide my clients to empower themselves and be survivors, not victims. I assign frequent homework and will not work harder than you. I will most often tell you what you don't want to hear, in a loving, kind way. I use a variety of treatment modalities in any given session. I also have extensive knowlege and resources regarding the 12 steps. If requested, I can counsel from a Christian perspective.
Experience includes 12-Step programs, addiction recovery, marital, grief, boundaries, divorce, codependency, inner child, psychodrama, sex and love addiction, trauma, time management, coaching, career, financial and pastoral counseling.
The clients that work best with me are ready to identify obstacles that are preventing them from living a juicy and fulfilling life. I guide my clients to empower themselves and be survivors, not victims. I assign frequent homework and will not work harder than you. I will most often tell you what you don't want to hear, in a loving, kind way. I use a variety of treatment modalities in any given session. I also have extensive knowlege and resources regarding the 12 steps. If requested, I can counsel from a Christian perspective.
(469) 208-6767 View (469) 208-6767
Photo of David Hanson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dallas, TX
David Hanson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MDiv, CSAT, EMDR, SE
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75209
I address issues of sexual abuse and addiction, partners of infidelity or sex addicts trauma, substance abuse, developmental immaturity, divorce, and failure to launch young men.
Many people see therapy as a one-sided conversation, with little opportunity for interaction or getting to experience each other as real people. I can promise you that I am as real as it gets! I want to help you achieve whatever solutions and life changes you are looking for while enjoying the process as much as possible and experiencing yourself in new ways. Simply put, I don't believe therapy has to always be a painful thing. Calling a therapist can be intimidating, but I hope you will take a moment (and maybe a deep breath) to call and see how I can help.
I address issues of sexual abuse and addiction, partners of infidelity or sex addicts trauma, substance abuse, developmental immaturity, divorce, and failure to launch young men.
Many people see therapy as a one-sided conversation, with little opportunity for interaction or getting to experience each other as real people. I can promise you that I am as real as it gets! I want to help you achieve whatever solutions and life changes you are looking for while enjoying the process as much as possible and experiencing yourself in new ways. Simply put, I don't believe therapy has to always be a painful thing. Calling a therapist can be intimidating, but I hope you will take a moment (and maybe a deep breath) to call and see how I can help.
(469) 300-5247 View (469) 300-5247
Photo of James P. Foster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dallas, TX
James P. Foster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, LCDC, EMDR, I-ADC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75231
Facing the decision to seek help for a substance use disorder (SUD) can be one of the most fearful places a person visits. My passion is helping individuals/families walk through this dark period. During my 10+ years of clinical practice, I have helped numerous individuals/families achieve their goal of sobriety and recovery. Through my experience, I quickly develop rapport, provide support and compassion, and assist individuals/families to understand root causes that lead to substance misuse. Please reach out if you're thinking you need help! I diligently work to see any/all clients who reach out, in-person or via telehealth.
Facing the decision to seek help for a substance use disorder (SUD) can be one of the most fearful places a person visits. My passion is helping individuals/families walk through this dark period. During my 10+ years of clinical practice, I have helped numerous individuals/families achieve their goal of sobriety and recovery. Through my experience, I quickly develop rapport, provide support and compassion, and assist individuals/families to understand root causes that lead to substance misuse. Please reach out if you're thinking you need help! I diligently work to see any/all clients who reach out, in-person or via telehealth.
(972) 544-4846 View (972) 544-4846

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.