Photo of Stefan Waltke, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Stefan Waltke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Seeking mental health is an important step towards general well-being. Just as you would not be expected to simply “tough out” a broken leg, for instance, neither should you do the same for depression, anxiety, or even more importantly, finding yourself at a crossroads and uncertain what to do next. I am here to lend a non-judgmental ear, and to help you move through difficult aspects of your life. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, uncertainty about paths forward in life, and addiction for adults, and with a particular interest in the LGBTQ population.
Seeking mental health is an important step towards general well-being. Just as you would not be expected to simply “tough out” a broken leg, for instance, neither should you do the same for depression, anxiety, or even more importantly, finding yourself at a crossroads and uncertain what to do next. I am here to lend a non-judgmental ear, and to help you move through difficult aspects of your life. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, uncertainty about paths forward in life, and addiction for adults, and with a particular interest in the LGBTQ population.
(972) 798-4079 View (972) 798-4079
Photo of Counseling By Kate, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Counseling By Kate
Licensed Professional Counselor, JD, MS, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
I offer a range of services including: Individual, Family and Couples Counseling, Parenting Coordination, Coparenting, Parent Coach, Mediation, Anger Management and Substance Abuse.
LIMITED AVAILABILITY & ONLY ACCEPTING NEW CASH PAY CLIENTS: Individual & Group Counseling, Coparenting, Parent Coach, Parenting Coordination & Collaborative Law. I am dedicating to providing clients with effective counseling methods to meet their personal needs and unleash their potential. Results and positive intervention are my goal in the therapeutic process. Although, my goal is to provide brief therapy, some clients may need more time to achieve the goals they set out for themselves. I will work with clients to achieve the trust, respect, honesty, and warmth that a counseling relationship demands.
I offer a range of services including: Individual, Family and Couples Counseling, Parenting Coordination, Coparenting, Parent Coach, Mediation, Anger Management and Substance Abuse.
LIMITED AVAILABILITY & ONLY ACCEPTING NEW CASH PAY CLIENTS: Individual & Group Counseling, Coparenting, Parent Coach, Parenting Coordination & Collaborative Law. I am dedicating to providing clients with effective counseling methods to meet their personal needs and unleash their potential. Results and positive intervention are my goal in the therapeutic process. Although, my goal is to provide brief therapy, some clients may need more time to achieve the goals they set out for themselves. I will work with clients to achieve the trust, respect, honesty, and warmth that a counseling relationship demands.
(360) 329-2940 View (360) 329-2940
Photo of Shannon LaDawn McGaugh, Pre-Licensed Professional in McKinney, TX
Shannon LaDawn McGaugh
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75069
Namaste.. I acknowledge the divine in me and I look forward to meeting the divine in you. I have been in this field for over 13 years and enjoy every new pathway that you may bring to my life. We can research new pathways together.. Life is a very difficult challenge for all of us..may we take haste in exploring the more pleasant aspects that life offers to each of us. No matter what you maybe facing in life believe that within you is the power to overcome or make changes .. I am trained in many lines of counseling and will not turn anyone away who is willing to seek deeper in their soul with direction to transform their life.
Namaste.. I acknowledge the divine in me and I look forward to meeting the divine in you. I have been in this field for over 13 years and enjoy every new pathway that you may bring to my life. We can research new pathways together.. Life is a very difficult challenge for all of us..may we take haste in exploring the more pleasant aspects that life offers to each of us. No matter what you maybe facing in life believe that within you is the power to overcome or make changes .. I am trained in many lines of counseling and will not turn anyone away who is willing to seek deeper in their soul with direction to transform their life.
(469) 871-8082 View (469) 871-8082
Photo of CHART Counseling Services PLLC, Komeka Biddle, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
CHART Counseling Services PLLC, Komeka Biddle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070
Are you tired of putting effort into people and problems that require more energy than you have and it's still NEVER enough! Does your involvement lead to the loss of your identity and often leads to a bad situation getting worse?! Now it's you who goes to bed depressed, wake up anxious, and feel lost because you've given everything you got! Living, loving, and supporting yourself or others is not suppose to be exhausting or one-sided. One-way streets have to end somewhere. I can help reroute you to Restoration Ave. where you will find the Recovery Inn and Suites! Our mission is Changing Hearts and Restoring Hearts Trust (CHART).
Are you tired of putting effort into people and problems that require more energy than you have and it's still NEVER enough! Does your involvement lead to the loss of your identity and often leads to a bad situation getting worse?! Now it's you who goes to bed depressed, wake up anxious, and feel lost because you've given everything you got! Living, loving, and supporting yourself or others is not suppose to be exhausting or one-sided. One-way streets have to end somewhere. I can help reroute you to Restoration Ave. where you will find the Recovery Inn and Suites! Our mission is Changing Hearts and Restoring Hearts Trust (CHART).
(469) 529-7643 View (469) 529-7643
Photo of Trista L. Jones, Counselor in McKinney, TX
Trista L. Jones
Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, CCPS, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
Trista is passionate about sexual health and wellness. She is eclectic in her treatment style working from a person-centered approach to develop strategies for personal growth, healing and hope. Trista believes in the psychosocial care of her clients, as we address immediate presenting issues and gain a better understanding of any deeper-rooted sources of suffering we can foster healthy growth, restoration and change within self and relationships. There is hope. Through a collaborative, therapeutic relationship, improving your quality of life, from YOUR perspective, is her ultimate goal.
Trista is passionate about sexual health and wellness. She is eclectic in her treatment style working from a person-centered approach to develop strategies for personal growth, healing and hope. Trista believes in the psychosocial care of her clients, as we address immediate presenting issues and gain a better understanding of any deeper-rooted sources of suffering we can foster healthy growth, restoration and change within self and relationships. There is hope. Through a collaborative, therapeutic relationship, improving your quality of life, from YOUR perspective, is her ultimate goal.
(972) 737-9034 View (972) 737-9034
Photo of Dr. Reza Kazemi-Mohammadi, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Dr. Reza Kazemi-Mohammadi
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
Dr. Reza Kazemi-Mohammadi, Ph.D. is a Licensed Counselor Professional (LPC). Reza received his Master's degree in Counseling Psychology at Southern Methodist University. He received his doctoral degree in Family Studies at Texas Woman's University. Reza works with individuals, families, adolescents, and couples. He strives to help people find meaning and motivation in life situations, using approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). He has advanced training in sexual therapy, and his areas of interest also include working with the LGBT community.
Dr. Reza Kazemi-Mohammadi, Ph.D. is a Licensed Counselor Professional (LPC). Reza received his Master's degree in Counseling Psychology at Southern Methodist University. He received his doctoral degree in Family Studies at Texas Woman's University. Reza works with individuals, families, adolescents, and couples. He strives to help people find meaning and motivation in life situations, using approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). He has advanced training in sexual therapy, and his areas of interest also include working with the LGBT community.
(972) 639-5229 View (972) 639-5229

Online Therapists

Photo of Balance Beacon, Psychological Associate in McKinney, TX
Balance Beacon
Psychological Associate
Verified Verified
Euless, TX 76040
The services we provide extend to adolescents and adults seeking guidance with depression, anxiety, addiction, sexual dysfunction, developmental disability, sexuality, family or concerns as a couple.
Hello You, yes You! Has life gotten you tired? Overworked? Stressed out? If you answered yes to any of those questions, you have come to the right profile. Let us tell you how we can help. Throughout our journey of life, we can experience some hard hits that will prevent us from moving forward without stumbling or feeling stuck. It is difficult to go through this journey without the assistance of someone who is not attached to your journey. The therapists at Balance Beacon offer clients a space to share the most difficult parts of themselves.
The services we provide extend to adolescents and adults seeking guidance with depression, anxiety, addiction, sexual dysfunction, developmental disability, sexuality, family or concerns as a couple.
Hello You, yes You! Has life gotten you tired? Overworked? Stressed out? If you answered yes to any of those questions, you have come to the right profile. Let us tell you how we can help. Throughout our journey of life, we can experience some hard hits that will prevent us from moving forward without stumbling or feeling stuck. It is difficult to go through this journey without the assistance of someone who is not attached to your journey. The therapists at Balance Beacon offer clients a space to share the most difficult parts of themselves.
(682) 356-3936 View (682) 356-3936
Photo of JM Counseling & Coaching Services - Joseph Massey, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in McKinney, TX
JM Counseling & Coaching Services - Joseph Massey
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCDC, CART
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75243
I began my education in the mental health field and spent my initial years training with great counselors and working at all levels of treatment. I have worked with adults, adolescents and young adults. After many years of working for other treatment providers I made the decision in 2009 to open my own practice. In addition to my private practice, I co-host a podcast called Life, Lived Better and work with Foundation 45 an incredible non-profit organization in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area that assists individuals with suicide prevention, addiction and mental health awareness.
I began my education in the mental health field and spent my initial years training with great counselors and working at all levels of treatment. I have worked with adults, adolescents and young adults. After many years of working for other treatment providers I made the decision in 2009 to open my own practice. In addition to my private practice, I co-host a podcast called Life, Lived Better and work with Foundation 45 an incredible non-profit organization in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area that assists individuals with suicide prevention, addiction and mental health awareness.
(972) 433-5566 View (972) 433-5566
Photo of Khesed Wellness in McKinney, TX
Khesed Wellness
LPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Lewisville, TX 75077
Sessions are $60 or FREE through our numerous pro bono programs for LGBTQ+ individuals, young people, restaurant workers, helping professionals, substance abuse, and those impacted by gun violence.
We believe everyone deserves access to quality mental health therapy they can afford. Our team of therapists offer a variety of expertise, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction and substance use, eating disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, faith, sexuality, boundary setting, identity exploration, and more. We offer individual, couples, and family sessions. Our goal is to match you with the therapist who is the best therapeutic, cultural and relational fit to meet your needs. We return all outreaches within one business day and match you with a therapist within one week so you don't have to wait for care. We're here for you.
Sessions are $60 or FREE through our numerous pro bono programs for LGBTQ+ individuals, young people, restaurant workers, helping professionals, substance abuse, and those impacted by gun violence.
We believe everyone deserves access to quality mental health therapy they can afford. Our team of therapists offer a variety of expertise, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction and substance use, eating disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, faith, sexuality, boundary setting, identity exploration, and more. We offer individual, couples, and family sessions. Our goal is to match you with the therapist who is the best therapeutic, cultural and relational fit to meet your needs. We return all outreaches within one business day and match you with a therapist within one week so you don't have to wait for care. We're here for you.
(972) 544-4168 View (972) 544-4168
Photo of Christy Findlay, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Christy Findlay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
My areas of specialization include Anxiety and Depression, Trauma/Abuse/PTSD, Relationships Issues, Substance Abuse, Parenting Issues, Stress and Lifestyle Management, Grief and Bereavement, and Phase of Life Transitions.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, with a Master's of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a National Certified Counselor. I am here to help you experience healthy change in your life through talk therapy. I can help you learn how to have a more positive outlook, develop healthy coping skills, deal with stress management, and cope with anxiety, depression and addiction.
My areas of specialization include Anxiety and Depression, Trauma/Abuse/PTSD, Relationships Issues, Substance Abuse, Parenting Issues, Stress and Lifestyle Management, Grief and Bereavement, and Phase of Life Transitions.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, with a Master's of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a National Certified Counselor. I am here to help you experience healthy change in your life through talk therapy. I can help you learn how to have a more positive outlook, develop healthy coping skills, deal with stress management, and cope with anxiety, depression and addiction.
(972) 954-2482 View (972) 954-2482
Photo of Jimmy G Owen, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Jimmy G Owen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCS, CDWF
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75219
Whether you are dealing with loneliness, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, sexual compulsivity/addiction, chronic illness, coming out, recovery from drug/alcohol addiction, having a professional to help guide and support you along the way can make the growing easier.
I understand dealing with tough times. Getting help at the right time can keep a rough patch from becoming a long-term problem.
Whether you are dealing with loneliness, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, sexual compulsivity/addiction, chronic illness, coming out, recovery from drug/alcohol addiction, having a professional to help guide and support you along the way can make the growing easier.
I understand dealing with tough times. Getting help at the right time can keep a rough patch from becoming a long-term problem.
(469) 373-1312 View (469) 373-1312
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 Lisa Barrow, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
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.
(682) 260-6894 View (682) 260-6894
Photo of Gloria Ester Gonzalez, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
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.
(325) 221-2847 View (325) 221-2847
Photo of Debra Ellis - Ellis Counseling Agency, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Debra Ellis - Ellis Counseling Agency
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LBSW, ACBSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76012
Welcome to Ellis Counseling Agency! As a skilled behavioral specialist, I am here to provide comprehensive support for a wide range of challenges that you and your family may encounter. My expertise lies in fostering personal well-being, both at an individual level and within the family unit. With the aim of guiding, you towards fulfilling your true potential, I am proud to hold dual licenses as a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and a Licensed Social Worker. Throughout my extensive 25-year career in behavioral health, substance abuse, case management, and medical social work, I have acquired invaluable experience.
Welcome to Ellis Counseling Agency! As a skilled behavioral specialist, I am here to provide comprehensive support for a wide range of challenges that you and your family may encounter. My expertise lies in fostering personal well-being, both at an individual level and within the family unit. With the aim of guiding, you towards fulfilling your true potential, I am proud to hold dual licenses as a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and a Licensed Social Worker. Throughout my extensive 25-year career in behavioral health, substance abuse, case management, and medical social work, I have acquired invaluable experience.
(214) 241-4093 View (214) 241-4093
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 Lydia K Clemmons, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in McKinney, TX
Lydia K Clemmons
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCDC
Verified Verified
Wylie, TX 75098
I have 30 years experience working in the addictions field specializing in Early Recovery, Chronic Relapse and Family Support. Perhaps you are unsure if addiction is a problem for you, Perhaps your a family member who has a loved one who is active in addiction and need support for yourself. I provide Intervention Services, Assessments and Treatment Recommendations. Regardless who you are, there is hope and I am here to help. With 30 years of personal recovery, it is my passion to help clients develop the skills they need to be successful in long term sobriety and help families heal.
I have 30 years experience working in the addictions field specializing in Early Recovery, Chronic Relapse and Family Support. Perhaps you are unsure if addiction is a problem for you, Perhaps your a family member who has a loved one who is active in addiction and need support for yourself. I provide Intervention Services, Assessments and Treatment Recommendations. Regardless who you are, there is hope and I am here to help. With 30 years of personal recovery, it is my passion to help clients develop the skills they need to be successful in long term sobriety and help families heal.
(512) 829-3041 View (512) 829-3041
Photo of James Coley, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
James Coley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Farmers Branch, TX 75244
My clients are adults of all ages working through a wide range of issues, such as depression, anxiety, addiction, grief, spiritual disconnection, relationship difficulties, and more. I have a particular interest and additional experience with the LGBTQ population, young adults working to establish their identities, those working through painful grief journeys, and those who are exploring their faith or spirituality. My goal is always to create a space free from judgment where you can explore who you are, who you want to be, and how you can get there!
My clients are adults of all ages working through a wide range of issues, such as depression, anxiety, addiction, grief, spiritual disconnection, relationship difficulties, and more. I have a particular interest and additional experience with the LGBTQ population, young adults working to establish their identities, those working through painful grief journeys, and those who are exploring their faith or spirituality. My goal is always to create a space free from judgment where you can explore who you are, who you want to be, and how you can get there!
(972) 433-5482 View (972) 433-5482
Photo of Landry Therapy Group PLLC - Arlington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
Landry Therapy Group PLLC - Arlington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76012  (Online Only)
*TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Our goal is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through struggles with which they are confronted. Lisa works with adults, individuals, couples, and LGBTQ+. Our other 8 therapists work with children, adolescents, adults, and families. We help clients with anxiety, depression, self harm/suicidal ideation, trauma, addiction, issues resulting from trauma, and life's daily struggles. We would like to help you foster a healthier style of living to ensure your future well-being.
*TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Our goal is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through struggles with which they are confronted. Lisa works with adults, individuals, couples, and LGBTQ+. Our other 8 therapists work with children, adolescents, adults, and families. We help clients with anxiety, depression, self harm/suicidal ideation, trauma, addiction, issues resulting from trauma, and life's daily struggles. We would like to help you foster a healthier style of living to ensure your future well-being.
(214) 234-9157 View (214) 234-9157
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.