Photo of Katie Baird, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Katie Baird
Licensed Professional Counselor, BS, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
Katie works with individuals, groups, couples, and families with issues regarding anxiety, depression, eating disorders, bereavement, traumatic events, stress management, anger management, conflict resolution, parenting, and substance abuse issues.
Katie works with individuals, groups, couples, and families with issues regarding anxiety, depression, eating disorders, bereavement, traumatic events, stress management, anger management, conflict resolution, parenting, and substance abuse issues.
(214) 884-4795 View (214) 884-4795
Photo of Megan Bosler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
Megan Bosler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75071
I believe that change occurs best within an authentic relationship between client and therapist. Along with the client I create a friendly and caring environment in which you can feel safe to explore and express your authentic self. Through this relationship I believe you will feel more able to go into the world feeling joyous and alive. I seek to assist you to be better able to connect to others in relationships, as well as to genuinely express yourself in work and play.
I believe that change occurs best within an authentic relationship between client and therapist. Along with the client I create a friendly and caring environment in which you can feel safe to explore and express your authentic self. Through this relationship I believe you will feel more able to go into the world feeling joyous and alive. I seek to assist you to be better able to connect to others in relationships, as well as to genuinely express yourself in work and play.
(833) 598-0117 View (833) 598-0117
Photo of Connections Wellness Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
Connections Wellness Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, LMFT, PhD, MD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
We are a GROUP practice of psychiatrists and counselors with the goal of being (1) easily accessible, (2) affordable, and (3) profoundly competent. Our psychiatrists and therapists are accepting new clients and we can typically provide new patient appointments in a matter of hours, not weeks or months. Our team is made up of Harvard students, college professors, international speakers, and advanced trained fully licensed practitioners. We offer a profoundly talented team with over 150+ years of combined experience, without losing a single ounce of individualized compassion, care, and genuine love for what we do every day.
We are a GROUP practice of psychiatrists and counselors with the goal of being (1) easily accessible, (2) affordable, and (3) profoundly competent. Our psychiatrists and therapists are accepting new clients and we can typically provide new patient appointments in a matter of hours, not weeks or months. Our team is made up of Harvard students, college professors, international speakers, and advanced trained fully licensed practitioners. We offer a profoundly talented team with over 150+ years of combined experience, without losing a single ounce of individualized compassion, care, and genuine love for what we do every day.
(940) 220-3884 View (940) 220-3884

Online Therapists

Photo of Jennifer Gregory, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
Jennifer Gregory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, EMDR, TBRI, RPE
Verified Verified
Tyler, TX 75701
I specialize in trauma informed and attachment based therapy, TBRI, EMDR, Brain Gym, individual/couples/group counseling, Circle of Security Parenting and Substance Abuse assessments (SASSI), Child Custody evaluations, Bonding assessments, and Psychosocial evaluations.
My goal is to help my clients find health and healing through introspection and understanding of their history and making active change in their lives.
I specialize in trauma informed and attachment based therapy, TBRI, EMDR, Brain Gym, individual/couples/group counseling, Circle of Security Parenting and Substance Abuse assessments (SASSI), Child Custody evaluations, Bonding assessments, and Psychosocial evaluations.
My goal is to help my clients find health and healing through introspection and understanding of their history and making active change in their lives.
(903) 459-5100 View (903) 459-5100
Photo of Laura Lynn Lancaster, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Laura Lynn Lancaster
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sachse, TX 75048  (Online Only)
I also have experience working with dual diagnosis such as alcohol and drug addiction with mental disorder.
****EVENING & WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS**** Healing begins with the first step. * Are you feeling stressed and overwhelmed? * Can't sleep, unable to focus or concentrate, feeling sad, angry or numb? * Is your work suffering? Your family and home-life suffering? * Have you experienced abuse or trauma? * Do you have feelings of guilt or shame? * Are you feeling depressed or anxious? * Are you feeling a loss of control over your life? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, you are not alone. Help is just a STEP away. We can work together towards your journey of healing.
I also have experience working with dual diagnosis such as alcohol and drug addiction with mental disorder.
****EVENING & WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS**** Healing begins with the first step. * Are you feeling stressed and overwhelmed? * Can't sleep, unable to focus or concentrate, feeling sad, angry or numb? * Is your work suffering? Your family and home-life suffering? * Have you experienced abuse or trauma? * Do you have feelings of guilt or shame? * Are you feeling depressed or anxious? * Are you feeling a loss of control over your life? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, you are not alone. Help is just a STEP away. We can work together towards your journey of healing.
(469) 251-1145 View (469) 251-1145
Photo of Kami Hawk in McKinney, TX
Kami Hawk
LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75074
***Now offering telehealth*** Hello, my name is Kami Hawk. I enjoy working with adults who are struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, abuse, shame, identity, self-worth, anger issues, relationship issues, and faith related issues. My background also includes working within the CPS and foster care systems. I use an eclectic approach to meet the specific need of each individual. I also offer faith-based Christian counseling upon request. I strive to create a safe and compassionate environment for clients to explore their difficulties and begin the healing process.
***Now offering telehealth*** Hello, my name is Kami Hawk. I enjoy working with adults who are struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, abuse, shame, identity, self-worth, anger issues, relationship issues, and faith related issues. My background also includes working within the CPS and foster care systems. I use an eclectic approach to meet the specific need of each individual. I also offer faith-based Christian counseling upon request. I strive to create a safe and compassionate environment for clients to explore their difficulties and begin the healing process.
(972) 433-5495 View (972) 433-5495
Photo of Holly Webb, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Holly Webb
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Keller, TX 76248
I specialize in addictions, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, grief, women's issues, and spirituality. I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist and would be glad to help you and your loved ones grow. I have experienced the pain that an addiction, eating disorder, and relationship issues can cause and I want you to know there is hope. I use a combination of cognitive behavioral, brief solution focused therapy, Emotional Transformation Therapy, EMDR, and understanding to help my clients live the best life possible.
I specialize in addictions, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, grief, women's issues, and spirituality. I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist and would be glad to help you and your loved ones grow. I have experienced the pain that an addiction, eating disorder, and relationship issues can cause and I want you to know there is hope. I use a combination of cognitive behavioral, brief solution focused therapy, Emotional Transformation Therapy, EMDR, and understanding to help my clients live the best life possible.
(817) 440-4413 View (817) 440-4413
Photo of Casey Leamy, Marriage & Family Therapist in McKinney, TX
Casey Leamy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCDC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252
My experience encompasses substance abuse, self-harm, domestic violence, trauma, adolescent behavioral issues, relational issues, family conflict, parenting, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, Adjustment Disorders, Bipolar, Borderline, and ADHD.
Nothing in life is one size fits all; therapy is no exception. My first priority is to establish a trusting relationship with you, then together create goals tailored to your individual needs. As humans, we tend to shy away from uncomfortable, unwanted, or overwhelming feelings/thoughts. We all develop habits to cope; sometimes those habits may no longer be helpful. In a non-judgmental and safe environment, we will work together, unlock your potential and create the change you desire. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and fully trained in EMDR in Texas.
My experience encompasses substance abuse, self-harm, domestic violence, trauma, adolescent behavioral issues, relational issues, family conflict, parenting, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, Adjustment Disorders, Bipolar, Borderline, and ADHD.
Nothing in life is one size fits all; therapy is no exception. My first priority is to establish a trusting relationship with you, then together create goals tailored to your individual needs. As humans, we tend to shy away from uncomfortable, unwanted, or overwhelming feelings/thoughts. We all develop habits to cope; sometimes those habits may no longer be helpful. In a non-judgmental and safe environment, we will work together, unlock your potential and create the change you desire. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and fully trained in EMDR in Texas.
(469) 778-4625 View (469) 778-4625
Photo of Dr. Michael Contreras, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Dr. Michael Contreras
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC, ADC, ICADC, DOT-SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021  (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 Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carrollton, TX 75010
Therapy areas include: Anxiety, Coping Skills, Stress, Depression, Marital Conflict, Grief/Loss, Eating Disorders, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, Dissociation, Family Conflict, Interpersonal Issues, Trauma, Addiction, Child and Teen Counseling, Adult counseling, Couples counseling and so much more.
As you take this step towards achieving wellness, we are honored to walk with you on your personal journey while providing a safe place, healing, hope, restoration, and quality of care. Specifically, Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas is dedicated to providing quality professional care by specializing in prevention, treatment and diagnosis of emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues. CAACOT provides evidence-based counseling and psychiatric services to children, adolescents, adults and couples.
Therapy areas include: Anxiety, Coping Skills, Stress, Depression, Marital Conflict, Grief/Loss, Eating Disorders, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, Dissociation, Family Conflict, Interpersonal Issues, Trauma, Addiction, Child and Teen Counseling, Adult counseling, Couples counseling and so much more.
As you take this step towards achieving wellness, we are honored to walk with you on your personal journey while providing a safe place, healing, hope, restoration, and quality of care. Specifically, Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas is dedicated to providing quality professional care by specializing in prevention, treatment and diagnosis of emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues. CAACOT provides evidence-based counseling and psychiatric services to children, adolescents, adults and couples.
(817) 813-6789 View (817) 813-6789
Photo of Lifeworks Counseling Center, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Lifeworks Counseling Center, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Addison, TX 75001
We seek to help individuals, couples/marriage, & families work through common (and sometimes, uncommon) relational, occupational, spiritual, divorce, blended family issues, substance use & more.
Lifeworks Counseling Center, PLLC has been in business since 1992. We provide therapy for ages 4 and up. We have 9 therapists (LPC, LMFT, LCSW) who provide counseling for almost any emotional/mental/spiritual challenge people face in today's culture. We have therapists on most major insurance and EAP panels and also work with private pay clients as well.
We seek to help individuals, couples/marriage, & families work through common (and sometimes, uncommon) relational, occupational, spiritual, divorce, blended family issues, substance use & more.
Lifeworks Counseling Center, PLLC has been in business since 1992. We provide therapy for ages 4 and up. We have 9 therapists (LPC, LMFT, LCSW) who provide counseling for almost any emotional/mental/spiritual challenge people face in today's culture. We have therapists on most major insurance and EAP panels and also work with private pay clients as well.
(972) 435-0231 View (972) 435-0231
Photo of Justin Harris, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Justin Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grapevine, TX 76051
Making the decision to come to counseling can be a difficult one. I understand people face different challenges that stop them from moving forward in their lives. I am passionate about helping people with various issues including depression, anxiety, unresolved grief/loss, low self-esteem, substance use disorders, and complex trauma among many others. I believe in a patient approach and emphasize building a trusting relationship to help foster deeper reflection and personal accountability. I look forward to the honor of walking alongside you in your journey to wellness.
Making the decision to come to counseling can be a difficult one. I understand people face different challenges that stop them from moving forward in their lives. I am passionate about helping people with various issues including depression, anxiety, unresolved grief/loss, low self-esteem, substance use disorders, and complex trauma among many others. I believe in a patient approach and emphasize building a trusting relationship to help foster deeper reflection and personal accountability. I look forward to the honor of walking alongside you in your journey to wellness.
(682) 223-4841 View (682) 223-4841
Photo of Meltzer Counseling PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Meltzer Counseling PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75081
Meltzer Counseling is located in Richardson, Texas. We offer counseling services to adults, adolescents, children, couples. Clinicians accept health insurance, some clinicians offer therapy services on a sliding scale. Additionally, we offer short-term FREE family therapy for qualifying families. All clinicians are direct and respectful and our goal is to utilize the best fit for each client's needs. Therapists specialize in mood, eating disorders, addiction , anger management, self-harm behaviors, suicidal ideation ,trauma, EMDR, PTSD, grief and loss issues, communication skills, family and relationship dynamics.
Meltzer Counseling is located in Richardson, Texas. We offer counseling services to adults, adolescents, children, couples. Clinicians accept health insurance, some clinicians offer therapy services on a sliding scale. Additionally, we offer short-term FREE family therapy for qualifying families. All clinicians are direct and respectful and our goal is to utilize the best fit for each client's needs. Therapists specialize in mood, eating disorders, addiction , anger management, self-harm behaviors, suicidal ideation ,trauma, EMDR, PTSD, grief and loss issues, communication skills, family and relationship dynamics.
(972) 954-6256 View (972) 954-6256
Photo of Jennifer Sparks, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Jennifer Sparks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CSAT, SEP
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75087
In life, we will experience pain. I am passionate about helping people recover from, and resolve, the various traumas of life. Together, we reduce the stress surrounding, and find relief from, unresolved trauma, often held in the mind AND the body. I work alongside clients who are struggling with the various manifestations of Trauma, Complex Trauma, PTSD, and early Developmental Trauma. I enjoy working with those suffering from symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder, Dissociative Identity Disorder, Anxiety, Panic, Impulsivity, Dissociation, Mood Disorders, Attachment Wounds, Betryal, Sex & Love Addiction, and Somatic concerns.
In life, we will experience pain. I am passionate about helping people recover from, and resolve, the various traumas of life. Together, we reduce the stress surrounding, and find relief from, unresolved trauma, often held in the mind AND the body. I work alongside clients who are struggling with the various manifestations of Trauma, Complex Trauma, PTSD, and early Developmental Trauma. I enjoy working with those suffering from symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder, Dissociative Identity Disorder, Anxiety, Panic, Impulsivity, Dissociation, Mood Disorders, Attachment Wounds, Betryal, Sex & Love Addiction, and Somatic concerns.
(972) 853-8317 View (972) 853-8317
Photo of Doreen Ann Diego, Marriage & Family Therapist in McKinney, TX
Doreen Ann Diego
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034  (Online Only)
Extensive experience in working with Individuals/Families with an array of Mental Health and/or Substance Abuse issues.
As a Marriage & Family Therapist licensed in both California and Texas, I have over 25 years of experience providing Clinical Counseling and Supervision to interns. Are you struggling in your job, in your relationship(s), with infidelity, or with an overall dissatisfaction in life? Has parenting caused strife and division between you, your partner, or your child's school? Have you had substance abuse issues or Child Custody & Visitation issues? Are you an intern in need of clinical supervision? If any of these sound familiar, please know that you are not alone! By addressing today's problem, you prevent tomorrow's crisis.
Extensive experience in working with Individuals/Families with an array of Mental Health and/or Substance Abuse issues.
As a Marriage & Family Therapist licensed in both California and Texas, I have over 25 years of experience providing Clinical Counseling and Supervision to interns. Are you struggling in your job, in your relationship(s), with infidelity, or with an overall dissatisfaction in life? Has parenting caused strife and division between you, your partner, or your child's school? Have you had substance abuse issues or Child Custody & Visitation issues? Are you an intern in need of clinical supervision? If any of these sound familiar, please know that you are not alone! By addressing today's problem, you prevent tomorrow's crisis.
(940) 353-1709 View (940) 353-1709
Photo of Chip Sutherland, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Chip Sutherland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75033
So 2024 is here...hopefully better. But something still feels off. You're not nuts (yet) but you're stuck somewhere between stressed and emotional wreck. But we've got this. Happiness, success, fun & play are within reach. You just need to re-find your momentum in life, work, career & relationships. Are zero energy & zero motivation holding you back? Maybe some brain fog? Your struggle is admirable and it sucks. But misery IS optional. Let's start kicking back at life. End the negative thinking, let's learn different/better ways of thinking/behaving to get what you want in life. Surviving is just okay-but thriving is SO much better!
So 2024 is here...hopefully better. But something still feels off. You're not nuts (yet) but you're stuck somewhere between stressed and emotional wreck. But we've got this. Happiness, success, fun & play are within reach. You just need to re-find your momentum in life, work, career & relationships. Are zero energy & zero motivation holding you back? Maybe some brain fog? Your struggle is admirable and it sucks. But misery IS optional. Let's start kicking back at life. End the negative thinking, let's learn different/better ways of thinking/behaving to get what you want in life. Surviving is just okay-but thriving is SO much better!
(972) 914-5406 View (972) 914-5406
Photo of Maggie Roney, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Maggie Roney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, ICP, AFMC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wylie, TX 75098
I know that experiencing a major life event such as trauma, a medical diagnosis, relationship conflict or parenting concern can turn the world you know upside down. I believe that as a person we can heal and recover whether this is mentally, physically or both. I have a holistic practice that not only helps your mental wellbeing but can address your physical health as well. I am Licensed Professional Counselor and Functional Medicine Practitioner. I can address your overall wellbeing not just your mental health. I am a certified EMDR (eye movement, desensitization and reprocessing) therapist and use other types of therapy to help.
I know that experiencing a major life event such as trauma, a medical diagnosis, relationship conflict or parenting concern can turn the world you know upside down. I believe that as a person we can heal and recover whether this is mentally, physically or both. I have a holistic practice that not only helps your mental wellbeing but can address your physical health as well. I am Licensed Professional Counselor and Functional Medicine Practitioner. I can address your overall wellbeing not just your mental health. I am a certified EMDR (eye movement, desensitization and reprocessing) therapist and use other types of therapy to help.
(469) 844-4921 View (469) 844-4921
Photo of Brannon La Force, LPC & Associates, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Brannon La Force, LPC & Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75204  (Online Only)
I have been a counselor for more than 30 years. I remain passionate about making a difference in the lives of others and believe that genuine caring is an essential element to an effective counseling relationship. Over the years I have worked with clients with significant trauma and loss. I consider it a privilege to stand with another individual as he or she resolves great pain. I am currently seeing clients exclusively via telemedicine (secure video platform). I am able to see clients in Texas, Kansas, Alabama, and California.
I have been a counselor for more than 30 years. I remain passionate about making a difference in the lives of others and believe that genuine caring is an essential element to an effective counseling relationship. Over the years I have worked with clients with significant trauma and loss. I consider it a privilege to stand with another individual as he or she resolves great pain. I am currently seeing clients exclusively via telemedicine (secure video platform). I am able to see clients in Texas, Kansas, Alabama, and California.
(469) 804-6044 View (469) 804-6044
Photo of Living Well Family and Child Institute, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Living Well Family and Child Institute
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS LPC, MS Ed,, BS Ed,
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75062
Enjoy counseling while experiencing a natural outdoor atmosphere or in-office setting. Dr. Aragon has 20 years of experience in Academic Teaching/Research and 15 years in Educational and Family counseling. My specialty involves court appointed Child Custody Evaluations, Adoptions, weight-loss management, Chronic Pain, and family relationships (e.g., couples, youth/adolescences and young adulthood). Therapy is engaged with a primary focus on generational trauma, anxiety, depression communication styles, Identity/Self-Esteem, and intimate re-engagement after chronic illness (e.g., Alzheimer's, diabetes, erectile dysfunction, etc.)
Enjoy counseling while experiencing a natural outdoor atmosphere or in-office setting. Dr. Aragon has 20 years of experience in Academic Teaching/Research and 15 years in Educational and Family counseling. My specialty involves court appointed Child Custody Evaluations, Adoptions, weight-loss management, Chronic Pain, and family relationships (e.g., couples, youth/adolescences and young adulthood). Therapy is engaged with a primary focus on generational trauma, anxiety, depression communication styles, Identity/Self-Esteem, and intimate re-engagement after chronic illness (e.g., Alzheimer's, diabetes, erectile dysfunction, etc.)
(214) 628-7225 View (214) 628-7225
Photo of The Empowering Space, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
The Empowering Space
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219  (Online Only)
Are you currently struggling to live your best life as your best you? Are you in need of a life reset? Does it appear to others that you have it all together but inside you are struggling with feeling inadequate and unworthy? Chances are you’ve tried to resolve these issues by yourself and you feel like it’s the end of the road. The time has come to change the narrative from hopeless to happiness, on your terms! Clinicians at The Empowering Space would love to help you explore the obstacles in your life, identify methods and behaviors to overcome them, and discover a path to your own place of hope, joy and peace.
Are you currently struggling to live your best life as your best you? Are you in need of a life reset? Does it appear to others that you have it all together but inside you are struggling with feeling inadequate and unworthy? Chances are you’ve tried to resolve these issues by yourself and you feel like it’s the end of the road. The time has come to change the narrative from hopeless to happiness, on your terms! Clinicians at The Empowering Space would love to help you explore the obstacles in your life, identify methods and behaviors to overcome them, and discover a path to your own place of hope, joy and peace.
(469) 833-2113 View (469) 833-2113
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.