Therapists in Erath County, TX
Laura J Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Dublin, TX 76446
Sometimes the help we need goes beyond talking to a friend; we need professional guidance. The decision to begin counseling and find a therapist can be stressful. Fear can keep us from moving forward. We sabotage ourselves with behaviors that keep us from reaching our potential. Unlocking the potential in each person I counsel is my passion. I work to create a collaborative, comfortable and supportive environment. I specialize in addiction issues, relationship problems, anger management, resolution of trauma and abuse. I help guide my clients through the grief process from significant losses, e.g. death, job loss, and divorce.
Sometimes the help we need goes beyond talking to a friend; we need professional guidance. The decision to begin counseling and find a therapist can be stressful. Fear can keep us from moving forward. We sabotage ourselves with behaviors that keep us from reaching our potential. Unlocking the potential in each person I counsel is my passion. I work to create a collaborative, comfortable and supportive environment. I specialize in addiction issues, relationship problems, anger management, resolution of trauma and abuse. I help guide my clients through the grief process from significant losses, e.g. death, job loss, and divorce.
Online Therapists
Gloria Ester Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75209
I have worked with children, teens, and adults with a variety of problems like families involved with CPS, parenting skills, mental illness, addiction treatment for individuals & their families, unemployed individuals (career counseling), depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, anger issues, bullying, marital problems, self-injury, abuse, grief, & many more.
There is not a specific type of therapeutic style or approach that works for everyone: age, ethnicity, all of this may play a part into stressors and how we cope with them. Therefore, the services are built around the individuals or family needs, focusing on strengths and values. I believe there is nothing we can’t overcome and the first step is seeking the help. Therapy is about acquiring the tools we need when faced with adversity. If you’re reading this, then you’re already on your way to change. Life is full of challenges, struggles, and stressful situations. WE have all been there before.
I have worked with children, teens, and adults with a variety of problems like families involved with CPS, parenting skills, mental illness, addiction treatment for individuals & their families, unemployed individuals (career counseling), depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, anger issues, bullying, marital problems, self-injury, abuse, grief, & many more.
There is not a specific type of therapeutic style or approach that works for everyone: age, ethnicity, all of this may play a part into stressors and how we cope with them. Therefore, the services are built around the individuals or family needs, focusing on strengths and values. I believe there is nothing we can’t overcome and the first step is seeking the help. Therapy is about acquiring the tools we need when faced with adversity. If you’re reading this, then you’re already on your way to change. Life is full of challenges, struggles, and stressful situations. WE have all been there before.
Therapeutic Concepts-SAP Services
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, BGS, SAP, LCDC, ADC III, ICADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Everman, TX 76140
I am a qualified Substance Abuse Professional, known as a SAP or QSAP. I provide substance abuse evaluations for Federal Department of Transportation entities, including the FAA, FMCSA, PHMSA, FRA, FTA, and the Maritime Administration. These employees include CDL drivers, bus drivers, oil/gas/pipeline workers, railroad, US Coast Guard, etc. I also provide substance abuse evaluations for Probation and Parole clients, attorneys, courts, private companies, and DPS and Department of Motor Vehicle departments in all states across the country. Another service provided by my office is the DWI Repeat Offender Intervention class.
I am a qualified Substance Abuse Professional, known as a SAP or QSAP. I provide substance abuse evaluations for Federal Department of Transportation entities, including the FAA, FMCSA, PHMSA, FRA, FTA, and the Maritime Administration. These employees include CDL drivers, bus drivers, oil/gas/pipeline workers, railroad, US Coast Guard, etc. I also provide substance abuse evaluations for Probation and Parole clients, attorneys, courts, private companies, and DPS and Department of Motor Vehicle departments in all states across the country. Another service provided by my office is the DWI Repeat Offender Intervention class.
Get Out Of Your Head Therapy Texas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76712 (Online Only)
At this time, Patricia only offers online counseling & clients must reside in Texas. She began her career as a therapist out of a burning desire to help individuals struggling with life circumstances. As a therapist, she works side by side with clients to help them feel worthy and supported. Patricia receives fulfillment by assisting clients struggling to overcome life's obstacles and offering a safe place to hurt, heal and grow. She has over 20 years of substance counseling experience with the federal government in the National Drug Abuse Program. There, she helped establish and implement drug programming in the federal system.
At this time, Patricia only offers online counseling & clients must reside in Texas. She began her career as a therapist out of a burning desire to help individuals struggling with life circumstances. As a therapist, she works side by side with clients to help them feel worthy and supported. Patricia receives fulfillment by assisting clients struggling to overcome life's obstacles and offering a safe place to hurt, heal and grow. She has over 20 years of substance counseling experience with the federal government in the National Drug Abuse Program. There, she helped establish and implement drug programming in the federal system.
Collins Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75238
Telehealth sessions available in all of Texas and in Washington and In-office sessions in Dallas, TX. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor with over 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in counseling children, adolescents, and adult who have been victims of crime. I also assist with divorce issues, issues related to parental use of drugs and alcohol, and I offer parental guidance. With adults and adolescents, I also offer counseling on addiction, depression, anxiety, divorce, and mental health concerns.
Telehealth sessions available in all of Texas and in Washington and In-office sessions in Dallas, TX. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor with over 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in counseling children, adolescents, and adult who have been victims of crime. I also assist with divorce issues, issues related to parental use of drugs and alcohol, and I offer parental guidance. With adults and adolescents, I also offer counseling on addiction, depression, anxiety, divorce, and mental health concerns.
Liselotte Vanhaecke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS , LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76107
I previously had the privilege of leading groups for those suffering from alcohol and drug addiction, as well as emotional disregulation issues, and have discovered an appreciation for walking through such a challenging time with the client.
Knowing from an early age that I wanted to connect with people on a deeper level, a career in counseling became a must. I was born and grew up in Belgium and moved to the states as a pre-teen, which was a tough transition at times. I quickly discovered my love for connecting with others was no different on the other side of the world. This strengthened my belief that cultural background, race, sex, age, etc does not make a difference in our suffering but that there is hope for each one of us.
I previously had the privilege of leading groups for those suffering from alcohol and drug addiction, as well as emotional disregulation issues, and have discovered an appreciation for walking through such a challenging time with the client.
Knowing from an early age that I wanted to connect with people on a deeper level, a career in counseling became a must. I was born and grew up in Belgium and moved to the states as a pre-teen, which was a tough transition at times. I quickly discovered my love for connecting with others was no different on the other side of the world. This strengthened my belief that cultural background, race, sex, age, etc does not make a difference in our suffering but that there is hope for each one of us.
Infinite Heart Healing (Lulu Liao)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, E-RYT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75214 (Online Only)
My passion for this holistic work stems from my own experiences with overcoming the pains of grief and loss, trauma/abuse, addiction, and multicultural issues.
Feeling stuck in life and disconnected from what is meaningful? Have moments in what seems like an infinite loop of obsessive ruminations in which you replay the same thoughts over and over? Or perhaps it’s a cycle of repetitive behavior(s), self-sabotage, and/or relationships that you can’t seem to break the pattern from? I believe that when we lose connection to our authentic selves (who we really are) , we face all kinds of issues including anxiety, depression, unfulfilling relationships, addictive behavioral patterns, obsessive thoughts, stress, despair, and hopelessness. No worries, it's never too late and I can help!
My passion for this holistic work stems from my own experiences with overcoming the pains of grief and loss, trauma/abuse, addiction, and multicultural issues.
Feeling stuck in life and disconnected from what is meaningful? Have moments in what seems like an infinite loop of obsessive ruminations in which you replay the same thoughts over and over? Or perhaps it’s a cycle of repetitive behavior(s), self-sabotage, and/or relationships that you can’t seem to break the pattern from? I believe that when we lose connection to our authentic selves (who we really are) , we face all kinds of issues including anxiety, depression, unfulfilling relationships, addictive behavioral patterns, obsessive thoughts, stress, despair, and hopelessness. No worries, it's never too late and I can help!
Nazeeya Zubaire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Euless, TX 76039 (Online Only)
I’ve worked with clients with various challenges including substance abuse, depression, anxiety, trauma, domestic violence, homelessness, chronic health conditions, disabilities I also provide faith based counseling for Muslim clientele.
There is one thing certain in this life, and that is each and every one of us are all going to have to endure challenges throughout our lives. While we cannot control all of the curve balls life throws at us, we can develop skills to control our responses and establish healthy coping skills. This is where I hope to become part of your journey.
I’ve worked with clients with various challenges including substance abuse, depression, anxiety, trauma, domestic violence, homelessness, chronic health conditions, disabilities I also provide faith based counseling for Muslim clientele.
There is one thing certain in this life, and that is each and every one of us are all going to have to endure challenges throughout our lives. While we cannot control all of the curve balls life throws at us, we can develop skills to control our responses and establish healthy coping skills. This is where I hope to become part of your journey.
Jennifer Y Namkoong
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024 (Online Only)
I am extensively trained in Trauma (Focused) Cognitive Behavioral (Physical/Sexual Abuse and other traumas); Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Eating and Substance Abuse Disorders), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and working with Culturally Diverse population.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) and a School Counselor with over 25+ years of experience and specializing in working with individuals, couples and families. We will work collaboratively together to help you find alternative and healthy ways to cope with disorders and symptoms such as anxiety (panic attacks), depression, grief/loss, and other mental health issues and addictions which can hinder success in personal relationships, schools/academics and/or employment settings. I am extensively trained in Trauma Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Therapies.
I am extensively trained in Trauma (Focused) Cognitive Behavioral (Physical/Sexual Abuse and other traumas); Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Eating and Substance Abuse Disorders), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and working with Culturally Diverse population.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) and a School Counselor with over 25+ years of experience and specializing in working with individuals, couples and families. We will work collaboratively together to help you find alternative and healthy ways to cope with disorders and symptoms such as anxiety (panic attacks), depression, grief/loss, and other mental health issues and addictions which can hinder success in personal relationships, schools/academics and/or employment settings. I am extensively trained in Trauma Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Therapies.
Lisa Barrow
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MAC, LCDC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Granbury, TX 76048
Though much of my clinical experience has been in the realm of addiction recovery, I have also worked consistently with adolescents and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, tauma-related issues, marital and family issues, and complexities of mental health issues.
I believe every person owns an unique and authentic story. My hope is to provide a safe place for individuals to openly and honestly work though the complicated realities of their past and their present, assist them in cultivating hope and to support them as they work to experience transformation in their hearts, minds and lives. We work together to address potential obstacles-mindfully leading clients to a richer, more satisfying life. I work consistently with adolescents and adults struggling with the complexities of mental health issues. No situation is hopeless where openness, honesty and willingness is present.
Though much of my clinical experience has been in the realm of addiction recovery, I have also worked consistently with adolescents and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, tauma-related issues, marital and family issues, and complexities of mental health issues.
I believe every person owns an unique and authentic story. My hope is to provide a safe place for individuals to openly and honestly work though the complicated realities of their past and their present, assist them in cultivating hope and to support them as they work to experience transformation in their hearts, minds and lives. We work together to address potential obstacles-mindfully leading clients to a richer, more satisfying life. I work consistently with adolescents and adults struggling with the complexities of mental health issues. No situation is hopeless where openness, honesty and willingness is present.
AR Psychological Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 7 yrs of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked in children's residential treatment, addiction, in-patient acute mental health, and adult and juvenile correctional settings. I believe that each client has their own unique story. I enjoy helping indivuals to process through their issues and make positive steps forward in achieving their therapeutic goals. Together we will work to find a therapy approach that works best for you.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 7 yrs of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked in children's residential treatment, addiction, in-patient acute mental health, and adult and juvenile correctional settings. I believe that each client has their own unique story. I enjoy helping indivuals to process through their issues and make positive steps forward in achieving their therapeutic goals. Together we will work to find a therapy approach that works best for you.
Nicole Marshall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092 (Online Only)
I have experience working with children, adolescents, teenagers, families, individuals, couples, and groups to deal with issues such as eating disorders, addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, marital issues, divorce, co-parenting, coping skills, self-harm, stress management, relationship distress, identify development, and life skills.
I specialize in treating eating disorders, women's issues, anxiety, trauma and depression. I have 6+ years working within the eating disorder community. I have 8 years working as a therapist. My goal is to help achieve a healthy and loving relationship one's mind and body. I am here to help through your journey and through the process of healing. My passion is to help you enhance you life by learning health coping skills and realizing one's strength and resiliency.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, teenagers, families, individuals, couples, and groups to deal with issues such as eating disorders, addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, marital issues, divorce, co-parenting, coping skills, self-harm, stress management, relationship distress, identify development, and life skills.
I specialize in treating eating disorders, women's issues, anxiety, trauma and depression. I have 6+ years working within the eating disorder community. I have 8 years working as a therapist. My goal is to help achieve a healthy and loving relationship one's mind and body. I am here to help through your journey and through the process of healing. My passion is to help you enhance you life by learning health coping skills and realizing one's strength and resiliency.
Linda May
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Therapist and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, my areas of competence include individual counseling, group counseling, Substance abuse counseling and family and marriage counseling. I am qualified to diagnose but not able to prescribe medications to clients. I believe that clients have the ability to choose how to resolve their own problems and can make their own decisions with my assistance as a facilitator. I believe that clients are responsible for their own behaviors, thoughts, and feelings. As a counselor, I hope to facilitate for my clients actualization of true authentic self.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Therapist and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, my areas of competence include individual counseling, group counseling, Substance abuse counseling and family and marriage counseling. I am qualified to diagnose but not able to prescribe medications to clients. I believe that clients have the ability to choose how to resolve their own problems and can make their own decisions with my assistance as a facilitator. I believe that clients are responsible for their own behaviors, thoughts, and feelings. As a counselor, I hope to facilitate for my clients actualization of true authentic self.
Brenna G. Camp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Abilene, TX 79601
The journey of life sometimes leads us down roads and paths untraveled. These new paths can be exciting or painful and scary. Perhaps you have experienced an unexpected death or loss. You or someone you love may be struggling with addiction, like substances or pornography. You may experience chronic physical pain and feel hopeless to find relief. Stress, depression, and anxiety may have surfaced unexpectedly or you have struggled with them for years. Or, you may be experiencing a life transition and hoping to grow through it. You, your children, teenagers, marriage, or family may be struggling to find harmony, peace or direction.
The journey of life sometimes leads us down roads and paths untraveled. These new paths can be exciting or painful and scary. Perhaps you have experienced an unexpected death or loss. You or someone you love may be struggling with addiction, like substances or pornography. You may experience chronic physical pain and feel hopeless to find relief. Stress, depression, and anxiety may have surfaced unexpectedly or you have struggled with them for years. Or, you may be experiencing a life transition and hoping to grow through it. You, your children, teenagers, marriage, or family may be struggling to find harmony, peace or direction.
Dallas Therapeutic Services
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75063
We have 16 therapists specializing in the following: LGBTQ+, PTSD (including military/first responders), pain, OCD, child/adolescent (including play therapy), EMDR, CBT, DBT, Spanish speaking, cultural issues, eating disorders, substance use, psychosis, grief, couples, family, attachment issues and behavioral.
Dallas Therapeutic Services is a group practice uniquely managed to fit the needs of most clients! When the group formed, care was taken to choose clinicians with a variety of backgrounds and specialities. We want to provide an environment, where we can match clients with their best fit therapist. Additionally, we are able to psychological testing for ADHD, Autism, IQ (processing speed, working memory, comprehension and perceptual reasoning as well IQ score) and personality (diagnosis) - all of which can help with differentiating diagnoses and planning treatment accordingly.
We have 16 therapists specializing in the following: LGBTQ+, PTSD (including military/first responders), pain, OCD, child/adolescent (including play therapy), EMDR, CBT, DBT, Spanish speaking, cultural issues, eating disorders, substance use, psychosis, grief, couples, family, attachment issues and behavioral.
Dallas Therapeutic Services is a group practice uniquely managed to fit the needs of most clients! When the group formed, care was taken to choose clinicians with a variety of backgrounds and specialities. We want to provide an environment, where we can match clients with their best fit therapist. Additionally, we are able to psychological testing for ADHD, Autism, IQ (processing speed, working memory, comprehension and perceptual reasoning as well IQ score) and personality (diagnosis) - all of which can help with differentiating diagnoses and planning treatment accordingly.
Meredith Rogers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harker Heights, TX 76548
My approach to therapy is empathetic and gentle, yet practical and straightforward. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, which is the most widely used evidence-based practice. I partner with my clients to challenge their thoughts, ideas, and behaviors with the goal of facilitating real, lasting change and to achieve personal growth. Some of my specialties include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, coping skills, military family issues, marriage and family counseling. There are "therapy apps" that may be helpful for some but they do not deliver the experience of having therapy in person.
My approach to therapy is empathetic and gentle, yet practical and straightforward. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, which is the most widely used evidence-based practice. I partner with my clients to challenge their thoughts, ideas, and behaviors with the goal of facilitating real, lasting change and to achieve personal growth. Some of my specialties include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, coping skills, military family issues, marriage and family counseling. There are "therapy apps" that may be helpful for some but they do not deliver the experience of having therapy in person.
Cheryl D. Barajas
LPC Intern, MS, LCDC, QMHP
Verified Verified
Temple, TX 76501 (Online Only)
I am a dedicated and confident counselor with an unwavering commitment to helping individuals overcome mental health challenges and substance use. My journey in the field of recovery began over a decade ago when I made the life-changing decision to embrace sobriety myself. Since then, I have relentlessly pursued my passion for assisting others on their path to recovery. I approach every client with empathy and a non-judgmental attitude, fostering a safe and supportive environment. I believe in treating each individual with the respect and dignity they deserve on their journey to recovery.
I am a dedicated and confident counselor with an unwavering commitment to helping individuals overcome mental health challenges and substance use. My journey in the field of recovery began over a decade ago when I made the life-changing decision to embrace sobriety myself. Since then, I have relentlessly pursued my passion for assisting others on their path to recovery. I approach every client with empathy and a non-judgmental attitude, fostering a safe and supportive environment. I believe in treating each individual with the respect and dignity they deserve on their journey to recovery.
Catherine (Cat) Tillinghast
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76701 (Online Only)
Currently accepting new online clients only. Hello! You can call me Cat. I work with ages 10+ and specialize in bipolar disorder, major depression, and addiction. I am a compassionate and fun-loving therapist who welcomes everyone regardless of gender, race, identity, beliefs, or sexual orientation. This journey is about YOU and that is who I am here for. My passion lies in building meaningful and lasting therapeutic relationships with my clients. I take a humanistic and person-centered approach to treatment, focusing on you, your journey, your goals, and how to get there. (Don’t worry – we will figure that out together!)
Currently accepting new online clients only. Hello! You can call me Cat. I work with ages 10+ and specialize in bipolar disorder, major depression, and addiction. I am a compassionate and fun-loving therapist who welcomes everyone regardless of gender, race, identity, beliefs, or sexual orientation. This journey is about YOU and that is who I am here for. My passion lies in building meaningful and lasting therapeutic relationships with my clients. I take a humanistic and person-centered approach to treatment, focusing on you, your journey, your goals, and how to get there. (Don’t worry – we will figure that out together!)
Laura Whisman Abbruzzese
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waco, TX 76701
My areas of specialty include first responder PTSD, substance abuse, trauma, anxiety/depression, relationship discord, and mindfulness. I am EMDR trained and have extensive experience utilizing EMDR to resolve trauma associated with first responder experiences, accidents, grief/loss, military combat, childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, and more. My work, as well as my personal life, is grounded in mindfulness. When we train our attention to stay in the present moment, we become much more aware of the stories we tell ourselves and how much suffering we experience as a result.
My areas of specialty include first responder PTSD, substance abuse, trauma, anxiety/depression, relationship discord, and mindfulness. I am EMDR trained and have extensive experience utilizing EMDR to resolve trauma associated with first responder experiences, accidents, grief/loss, military combat, childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, and more. My work, as well as my personal life, is grounded in mindfulness. When we train our attention to stay in the present moment, we become much more aware of the stories we tell ourselves and how much suffering we experience as a result.
Empowerment & Counseling Services by Karen, PLLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76123
I am now licensed in FL & TX! If you are struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, feelings of hopelessness &/or lack of faith, anger domestic violence/sexual abuse, mental & verbal abuse, if you are a victim of human or sex trafficking, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts &/or self-injurious behaviors, and you need guidance in 'transitioning your thoughts, behaviors, and way of living' because the way you have been living is draining you of substance (literally, financially, mentally & spiritually) - I can help! It's NOT over! Let me Empower you to your Next Evolution!
I am now licensed in FL & TX! If you are struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, feelings of hopelessness &/or lack of faith, anger domestic violence/sexual abuse, mental & verbal abuse, if you are a victim of human or sex trafficking, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts &/or self-injurious behaviors, and you need guidance in 'transitioning your thoughts, behaviors, and way of living' because the way you have been living is draining you of substance (literally, financially, mentally & spiritually) - I can help! It's NOT over! Let me Empower you to your Next Evolution!
See more therapy options for Erath County
Addiction Therapists
What is the best therapy for addiction?
Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.
How long does therapy for addiction take?
There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.
How effective is drug addiction treatment?
Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.
How can you get addiction treatment for someone?
The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.