Photo of Juanita Arredondo-Ortega, Licensed Professional Counselor in Guadalupe County, TX
Juanita Arredondo-Ortega
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Schertz, TX 78154
My primary specialty is working with women who have experienced trauma, individuals with substance use disorders and any individual experiencing workplace stress.
As a first-generation Mexican-American, I am sensitive to the multi-cultural needs of my clients. I am fluent in Spanish and English and able to effectively provide therapy in the language in which the individual is most comfortable, in doing so, their goals have a higher probability of being achieved. My clinical experience has provided me with the abilities to work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues related to trauma, depression, stress management, grief, parental support, and substance use.
My primary specialty is working with women who have experienced trauma, individuals with substance use disorders and any individual experiencing workplace stress.
As a first-generation Mexican-American, I am sensitive to the multi-cultural needs of my clients. I am fluent in Spanish and English and able to effectively provide therapy in the language in which the individual is most comfortable, in doing so, their goals have a higher probability of being achieved. My clinical experience has provided me with the abilities to work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues related to trauma, depression, stress management, grief, parental support, and substance use.
(210) 446-4953 View (210) 446-4953
Photo of Laura Kotlowski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Guadalupe County, TX
Laura Kotlowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, NCC, CCTP, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Schertz, TX 78154
I feel privileged & blessed to witness clients' change processes. I seek to use therapy modalities that work best for individualized client care, & I am grateful to serve in settings that align perfectly with my beliefs in achieving recovery. I am humbled to witness the healing that occurs in therapy where there was previously confusion, pain, & hopelessness. It is my life's passion to support & encourage others.
I feel privileged & blessed to witness clients' change processes. I seek to use therapy modalities that work best for individualized client care, & I am grateful to serve in settings that align perfectly with my beliefs in achieving recovery. I am humbled to witness the healing that occurs in therapy where there was previously confusion, pain, & hopelessness. It is my life's passion to support & encourage others.
(210) 791-6972 View (210) 791-6972
Photo of Candace Marlowe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Guadalupe County, TX
Candace Marlowe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Schertz, TX 78154
Not accepting new clients
The main issues I see walk in my door are: depression, mood disorders, anger issues, suicidal thoughts/ attempts, hearing voices or seeing things that aren't there, self-esteems issues, relationship problems (whether with family or spouses), struggling with substance abuse, and more.
Ever feel like no one understands you? Wish you could talk to someone without judgment or bias? Have something wrong but are not sure how to vocalize the issue? That is exactly what counseling is for. I offer you a setting that is safe to work through whatever issue you are struggling with, whether you have a specific goal or just need an outlet. My mission as a counselor is to support anyone that is struggling, by educating them, listening to them, or help by working with the family. Due to high demand at this time I am not accepting new clients.
The main issues I see walk in my door are: depression, mood disorders, anger issues, suicidal thoughts/ attempts, hearing voices or seeing things that aren't there, self-esteems issues, relationship problems (whether with family or spouses), struggling with substance abuse, and more.
Ever feel like no one understands you? Wish you could talk to someone without judgment or bias? Have something wrong but are not sure how to vocalize the issue? That is exactly what counseling is for. I offer you a setting that is safe to work through whatever issue you are struggling with, whether you have a specific goal or just need an outlet. My mission as a counselor is to support anyone that is struggling, by educating them, listening to them, or help by working with the family. Due to high demand at this time I am not accepting new clients.
(830) 837-5550 View (830) 837-5550

Online Therapists

Photo of Lizzie Marie Turk, LPC-Associate in Guadalupe County, TX
Lizzie Marie Turk
LPC-Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78735
I have a passion for empowering individuals to navigate life's challenges, and bring a compassionate and holistic approach to therapy. I specialize in providing support to clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, and substance abuse.
I have a passion for empowering individuals to navigate life's challenges, and bring a compassionate and holistic approach to therapy. I specialize in providing support to clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, and substance abuse.
(737) 302-5581 View (737) 302-5581
Photo of Katie Joy Winer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Guadalupe County, TX
Katie Joy Winer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746  (Online Only)
I also have an extensive background treating addiction, recovery and codependency.
We all go through life struggles, which we are not able to handle on our own. Therapy is a very helpful tool to get the help and guidance that you, your family or typical support network may not be able to provide. My job as a psychotherapist is to work collaboratively with clients to help you heal and grow. My approach is gentle and direct, and while I have confidence in my knowledge about therapy, I treat every client as an individual and learn from every person who works with me. My clients would say they trust my intuition, pay close attention, tell them the truth and empower them with ongoing effective strategies for healing.
I also have an extensive background treating addiction, recovery and codependency.
We all go through life struggles, which we are not able to handle on our own. Therapy is a very helpful tool to get the help and guidance that you, your family or typical support network may not be able to provide. My job as a psychotherapist is to work collaboratively with clients to help you heal and grow. My approach is gentle and direct, and while I have confidence in my knowledge about therapy, I treat every client as an individual and learn from every person who works with me. My clients would say they trust my intuition, pay close attention, tell them the truth and empower them with ongoing effective strategies for healing.
(512) 270-6608 View (512) 270-6608
Photo of Rebecca Roman Montez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Guadalupe County, TX
Rebecca Roman Montez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, BCN
Verified Verified
Boerne, TX 78015  (Online Only)
I offer integrative and evidence-based therapies to help clients struggling with anxiety, relational issues, difficult life transitions, substance abuse, PTSD, and depression.
Seneca Therapy is 100% online for all Texas residents! Hours are 5 a.m. to Noon to support alternate shift schedules: military, first responders, medical professionals, & more! When you face challenges in your daily life, relationships, or meeting your goals, I am here to support you in discovering how to process big emotions and grow through each difficulty. I provide counseling to teens, adults, and couples. I seek to empower clients to improve and restore balance in their lives by tapping into their personal strengths. I employ integrative approaches including CBT, neuroscience, narrative therapy, EMDR, and Relational Therapy.
I offer integrative and evidence-based therapies to help clients struggling with anxiety, relational issues, difficult life transitions, substance abuse, PTSD, and depression.
Seneca Therapy is 100% online for all Texas residents! Hours are 5 a.m. to Noon to support alternate shift schedules: military, first responders, medical professionals, & more! When you face challenges in your daily life, relationships, or meeting your goals, I am here to support you in discovering how to process big emotions and grow through each difficulty. I provide counseling to teens, adults, and couples. I seek to empower clients to improve and restore balance in their lives by tapping into their personal strengths. I employ integrative approaches including CBT, neuroscience, narrative therapy, EMDR, and Relational Therapy.
(830) 264-5406 View (830) 264-5406
Photo of Nancy St Claire Rice, Counselor in Guadalupe County, TX
Nancy St Claire Rice
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731  (Online Only)
Specialty areas - PTSD / trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use - recovery, transitions, cultural adjustment, and spiritual growth.
I strive to offer a safe, empathetic space to help you on your path. As a licensed counselor and cultural anthropologist with 25 years of experience, I bring a unique perspective to my work. Whether you’re dealing with general life stressors or more complex mental health concerns, I offer personalized guidance and support to help you navigate challenges. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, cultural sensitivity, and a deep commitment to helping individuals achieve their goals. Telehealth in FL, TX, AZ. Visit my website: www.stclairecounseling.com
Specialty areas - PTSD / trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use - recovery, transitions, cultural adjustment, and spiritual growth.
I strive to offer a safe, empathetic space to help you on your path. As a licensed counselor and cultural anthropologist with 25 years of experience, I bring a unique perspective to my work. Whether you’re dealing with general life stressors or more complex mental health concerns, I offer personalized guidance and support to help you navigate challenges. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, cultural sensitivity, and a deep commitment to helping individuals achieve their goals. Telehealth in FL, TX, AZ. Visit my website: www.stclairecounseling.com
(904) 822-7538 View (904) 822-7538
Photo of Kizzy Griffin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Guadalupe County, TX
Kizzy Griffin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMSW
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229  (Online Only)
My experience includes working with life transitions (military and civilian), intimacy barriers, sexuality connections, depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA+ challenges, trauma, race-related trauma, Military Trauma, PTSD, and addiction.
Since 2018, I have utilized person-centered and strength-based practices to promote the "Power of Self." These practices empower individuals to direct their therapeutic process. Establishing a safe zone and welcoming client feedback allows methods that are proven to be effective in managing difficulties, promoting personal growth, and accomplishing personal goals. I also provide therapy services to individuals exploring their sexuality; sexually fluent; and those that are experiencing a decrease or increase in sexual functioning.
My experience includes working with life transitions (military and civilian), intimacy barriers, sexuality connections, depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA+ challenges, trauma, race-related trauma, Military Trauma, PTSD, and addiction.
Since 2018, I have utilized person-centered and strength-based practices to promote the "Power of Self." These practices empower individuals to direct their therapeutic process. Establishing a safe zone and welcoming client feedback allows methods that are proven to be effective in managing difficulties, promoting personal growth, and accomplishing personal goals. I also provide therapy services to individuals exploring their sexuality; sexually fluent; and those that are experiencing a decrease or increase in sexual functioning.
(254) 232-5631 View (254) 232-5631
Photo of Heather W. Outlaw, Licensed Professional Counselor in Guadalupe County, TX
Heather W. Outlaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78736
You've tried everything and it feels like nothing is changing. You need help in treating trauma, addiction, co-dependence or moving through a difficult life transition. I am passionate about helping you examine and discard outdated beliefs and family, societal and cultural rules that bind you. It is my honor and a joy to help you bravely face and work through issues to be able to re-enter your life from a place of authenticity and strength. EMDR is AMAZING! I am trained in the Meadows Survivors protocol and I am a Certified Daring Way (Brene Brown), Facilitator. Call me! I want to help.
You've tried everything and it feels like nothing is changing. You need help in treating trauma, addiction, co-dependence or moving through a difficult life transition. I am passionate about helping you examine and discard outdated beliefs and family, societal and cultural rules that bind you. It is my honor and a joy to help you bravely face and work through issues to be able to re-enter your life from a place of authenticity and strength. EMDR is AMAZING! I am trained in the Meadows Survivors protocol and I am a Certified Daring Way (Brene Brown), Facilitator. Call me! I want to help.
(617) 936-7846 View (617) 936-7846
Photo of Josefina Irigoyen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Guadalupe County, TX
Josefina Irigoyen
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, MS, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78757
I have experience and have had success in working with patients suffering from different psychiatric diagnosis such as: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, behavioral issues, survivors of abuse, substance abuse, relationship issues.
My goal is to help you, or your loved one, overcome any psychological and/or emotional state you may be struggling with, by providing a safe, caring, and professional environment to promote positive change towards well-being.
I have experience and have had success in working with patients suffering from different psychiatric diagnosis such as: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, behavioral issues, survivors of abuse, substance abuse, relationship issues.
My goal is to help you, or your loved one, overcome any psychological and/or emotional state you may be struggling with, by providing a safe, caring, and professional environment to promote positive change towards well-being.
(512) 354-1012 View (512) 354-1012
Photo of Lindsay Minarovic, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Guadalupe County, TX
Lindsay Minarovic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78228
Waitlist for new clients
For the past 10 years, Lindsay has worked in the areas of mental illness, substance abuse, grief, terminal illness, displacement, homelessness, cognitive impairments, physical disabilities, learning disabilities, domestic violence, teen pregnancy and parenthood, LGBTQIA++ issues, and extensive life traumas.
Lindsay is a Texas Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that everyone can benefit from working with a therapist, and would like the opportunity to work with you to provide support and guidance toward your goals. Lindsay enjoys facilitating therapy groups, educating individuals about financial empowerment, and doing individual therapy.
For the past 10 years, Lindsay has worked in the areas of mental illness, substance abuse, grief, terminal illness, displacement, homelessness, cognitive impairments, physical disabilities, learning disabilities, domestic violence, teen pregnancy and parenthood, LGBTQIA++ issues, and extensive life traumas.
Lindsay is a Texas Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that everyone can benefit from working with a therapist, and would like the opportunity to work with you to provide support and guidance toward your goals. Lindsay enjoys facilitating therapy groups, educating individuals about financial empowerment, and doing individual therapy.
(210) 702-2828 View (210) 702-2828
Photo of Melissa Chapman Pettit, Licensed Professional Counselor in Guadalupe County, TX
Melissa Chapman Pettit
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, Veteran
Verified Verified
Lakeway, TX 78738  (Online Only)
"Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, expecting different results." ADDICTION & DEPENDENCY result from an unconscious refusal to move through the pain of withdrawal (from a chemical, thought-process, behavior, other person, etc.). The behavior gets repeated, accompanied by cycles of disappointment, shame, GRIEF, frustration and isolation. Having experienced this same cycle (more than once) I bring years of education, training, personal recovery experiences and compassion to our therapeutic relationship. My PERSONAL therapeutic process is on-going. I would be honored to help you in yours. EASY? Nope. WORTH IT? Yes!
"Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, expecting different results." ADDICTION & DEPENDENCY result from an unconscious refusal to move through the pain of withdrawal (from a chemical, thought-process, behavior, other person, etc.). The behavior gets repeated, accompanied by cycles of disappointment, shame, GRIEF, frustration and isolation. Having experienced this same cycle (more than once) I bring years of education, training, personal recovery experiences and compassion to our therapeutic relationship. My PERSONAL therapeutic process is on-going. I would be honored to help you in yours. EASY? Nope. WORTH IT? Yes!
(830) 355-6156 View (830) 355-6156
Photo of Jane Stevens, Marriage & Family Therapist in Guadalupe County, TX
Jane Stevens
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731  (Online Only)
My experience working in school, hospital, outpatient and private practice settings has enabled me to effectively treat those struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addiction, mood disorders, and self esteem issues.
Are you feeling lost, stuck, maybe unsure of next steps in life? Are you in a relationship that feels overwhelming and stressful but not sure why? I am passionate about empowering you to be your own agent of change. From my innate interest in the human condition and respect for your unique story, I derive a empathic, client-centered and solution-focused therapeutic approach. Let's collaborate to identify and draw upon your strengths to achieve a sense of balance, fulfillment and purpose. I value the opportunity to work with client of various ages to navigate life and cultivate appropriate shifts to improve well-being.
My experience working in school, hospital, outpatient and private practice settings has enabled me to effectively treat those struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addiction, mood disorders, and self esteem issues.
Are you feeling lost, stuck, maybe unsure of next steps in life? Are you in a relationship that feels overwhelming and stressful but not sure why? I am passionate about empowering you to be your own agent of change. From my innate interest in the human condition and respect for your unique story, I derive a empathic, client-centered and solution-focused therapeutic approach. Let's collaborate to identify and draw upon your strengths to achieve a sense of balance, fulfillment and purpose. I value the opportunity to work with client of various ages to navigate life and cultivate appropriate shifts to improve well-being.
(214) 506-7262 View (214) 506-7262
Photo of MindGarden Therapeutic Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Guadalupe County, TX
MindGarden Therapeutic Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
New Braunfels, TX 78130  (Online Only)
Hi there! My name is Dr. Ana Alicia Potthast, DSW, LCSW, LCDC. I have a passion for mental health care and substance abuse treatment, and I have extensive experience and training in behavioral health, diagnostics, addiction, co-occurring disorders, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, domestic violence, sexual abuse and assault, maternity and fertility issues, grief and loss, hoarding, family dynamics and conflict, marital issues, sexual orientation and gender identification and expression, adjustment issues, stages in life, and many other situations that bring a client to seek counseling.
Hi there! My name is Dr. Ana Alicia Potthast, DSW, LCSW, LCDC. I have a passion for mental health care and substance abuse treatment, and I have extensive experience and training in behavioral health, diagnostics, addiction, co-occurring disorders, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, domestic violence, sexual abuse and assault, maternity and fertility issues, grief and loss, hoarding, family dynamics and conflict, marital issues, sexual orientation and gender identification and expression, adjustment issues, stages in life, and many other situations that bring a client to seek counseling.
(830) 582-9887 View (830) 582-9887
Photo of Dr. Claire C Loucka, Marriage & Family Therapist in Guadalupe County, TX
Dr. Claire C Loucka
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78232  (Online Only)
I am also passionate about working with individuals struggling with addiction.
Therapy from the comfort and privacy of your own home, online sessions! Sometimes life gets messy, it can feel like everything is all jumbled up in knots with no way to untangle things—that’s where I come in. I am a disentanglement expert. As a solution-orientated therapist I am most interested in exploring your strengths and resources as the building blocks for therapy and change.
I am also passionate about working with individuals struggling with addiction.
Therapy from the comfort and privacy of your own home, online sessions! Sometimes life gets messy, it can feel like everything is all jumbled up in knots with no way to untangle things—that’s where I come in. I am a disentanglement expert. As a solution-orientated therapist I am most interested in exploring your strengths and resources as the building blocks for therapy and change.
(210) 741-8848 View (210) 741-8848
Photo of Kristina Aiello, Licensed Professional Counselor in Guadalupe County, TX
Kristina Aiello
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666  (Online Only)
Whether trauma or addiction, let's navigate toward healing together.
Do you feel overwhelmed by negative thoughts and constant worry? Are you struggling to keep up with life's many demands? Do you need help processing complex emotions, working through grief or trauma, or just need someone to listen objectively? Healing from the pain of trauma and overcoming life's many hurdles is very much a part of my story. It is my own journey with counseling that helps lend to my passion for helping others. I believe we all have more power than we know. Helping people identify their barriers and grow beyond them is the best part of my work.
Whether trauma or addiction, let's navigate toward healing together.
Do you feel overwhelmed by negative thoughts and constant worry? Are you struggling to keep up with life's many demands? Do you need help processing complex emotions, working through grief or trauma, or just need someone to listen objectively? Healing from the pain of trauma and overcoming life's many hurdles is very much a part of my story. It is my own journey with counseling that helps lend to my passion for helping others. I believe we all have more power than we know. Helping people identify their barriers and grow beyond them is the best part of my work.
(512) 575-8653 View (512) 575-8653
Photo of Align Couples Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Guadalupe County, TX
Align Couples Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCDC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78232
Do you feel alone, powerless and stuck in the same repeated arguments? Do you long for the connection and friendship you once had with your partner? When relationships are hurting, it affects everything. Underneath the painful surface could be many issues such as depression, ADHD, anxiety, shame, infidelity, substance use or parenting challenges. You deserve counseling based on science and research. You deserve respect and acceptance as you work through strengthening your relationship. Each couple has strengths and resiliencies that just need to be connected to the right tools for effective connection.
Do you feel alone, powerless and stuck in the same repeated arguments? Do you long for the connection and friendship you once had with your partner? When relationships are hurting, it affects everything. Underneath the painful surface could be many issues such as depression, ADHD, anxiety, shame, infidelity, substance use or parenting challenges. You deserve counseling based on science and research. You deserve respect and acceptance as you work through strengthening your relationship. Each couple has strengths and resiliencies that just need to be connected to the right tools for effective connection.
(210) 940-4694 View (210) 940-4694
Photo of Susan Bushong, Licensed Professional Counselor in Guadalupe County, TX
Susan Bushong
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731
Chronic pain and illness, sleep problems and sexual addiction and food problems are my specialties. I have over 40 years of experience, an advance certification in compulsive sexual problems and I am a certified weight loss specialist. I also have extensive training in treating anxiety and depression as well as problems in relationships. I am extensively trained in treating chronic pain and sleep problems through hypnotherapy and brief solution focused therapy. I have worked in Europe, India and the United States.
Chronic pain and illness, sleep problems and sexual addiction and food problems are my specialties. I have over 40 years of experience, an advance certification in compulsive sexual problems and I am a certified weight loss specialist. I also have extensive training in treating anxiety and depression as well as problems in relationships. I am extensively trained in treating chronic pain and sleep problems through hypnotherapy and brief solution focused therapy. I have worked in Europe, India and the United States.
(512) 337-3357 View (512) 337-3357
Photo of Jan Marquart LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Guadalupe County, TX
Jan Marquart LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
I began private practice in 1986 but have counseled troubled families since 1979. My clients include struggling college students, couples in conflict, families in disarray, substance abusers, employers worried about an employee, seniors who lost a spouse or adjusting to aging, daughters in conflicts with their mothers, women in violent relationships. I use writing for wellness. I have created a 6-week intensive writing course to guide clients through PTSD and other stressors. I have taught this course online around the world and in sessions. Go to: Amazon.com for all my books.
I began private practice in 1986 but have counseled troubled families since 1979. My clients include struggling college students, couples in conflict, families in disarray, substance abusers, employers worried about an employee, seniors who lost a spouse or adjusting to aging, daughters in conflicts with their mothers, women in violent relationships. I use writing for wellness. I have created a 6-week intensive writing course to guide clients through PTSD and other stressors. I have taught this course online around the world and in sessions. Go to: Amazon.com for all my books.
(512) 942-2390 View (512) 942-2390
Photo of Eric A Schmidt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Guadalupe County, TX
Eric A Schmidt
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPCS
Verified Verified
San Marcos, TX 78666
I work with adolescents, adults and couples who find themselves dealing with issues such as addiction, relationship conflict/satisfaction, and/or depression.
You're probably reading this because you're considering counseling. I think that's a great first step. No matter who you choose, I hope you meet with someone. Here's a litte about me; I hope this makes your job of selecting someone a little easier.
I work with adolescents, adults and couples who find themselves dealing with issues such as addiction, relationship conflict/satisfaction, and/or depression.
You're probably reading this because you're considering counseling. I think that's a great first step. No matter who you choose, I hope you meet with someone. Here's a litte about me; I hope this makes your job of selecting someone a little easier.
(512) 522-5850 View (512) 522-5850

See more therapy options for Guadalupe 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.