Photo of Ashley Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
Ashley Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75072
I am trained in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Seeking Safety, which is a curriculum-based approach to treatment of co-occurring substance use and PTSD.
The human mind and body is a vastly complex and amazing system, with immeasurable capacity for both pain and healing. None of us operates in a vacuum and, because of different life experiences, beliefs, environments and relationships, each of us is unique in our suffering, as well as our path to wellness.
I am trained in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Seeking Safety, which is a curriculum-based approach to treatment of co-occurring substance use and PTSD.
The human mind and body is a vastly complex and amazing system, with immeasurable capacity for both pain and healing. None of us operates in a vacuum and, because of different life experiences, beliefs, environments and relationships, each of us is unique in our suffering, as well as our path to wellness.
(214) 428-6447 View (214) 428-6447
Photo of Chris Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Chris Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
I believe parents possess tremendous power to influence their child's well-being. By just "Tuning up" our parenting a bit, we can tremendously benefit our child's behavior and emotional well-being. My objective is to help individuals, couples, and families to move through conflicts and navigate difficult situations. With my support, we will work together to help your child and/or adolescents learn how to regulate themselves, reverse problem behaviors, and feel empowered.
I believe parents possess tremendous power to influence their child's well-being. By just "Tuning up" our parenting a bit, we can tremendously benefit our child's behavior and emotional well-being. My objective is to help individuals, couples, and families to move through conflicts and navigate difficult situations. With my support, we will work together to help your child and/or adolescents learn how to regulate themselves, reverse problem behaviors, and feel empowered.
(214) 251-4004 View (214) 251-4004
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 Kim Carson, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Kim Carson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MEd, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75069
My therapeutic philosophy involves utilizing a holistic approach incorporating Gestalt and Adlerian therapies. As a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in athletes, children, adolescents, and young adults, I frequently work with clients experiencing issues related to poor sport or school performance, life changes during adolescence, life transitioning from college to career, parenting issues, sibling relationships, and divorce family transitioning. Topical issues may include low self-esteem , ADHD, transitioning from athletic identity, peer relationships, anger management, self-mutilation, eating disorders, and self-empowerment. A fundamental element in my approach is establishing the therapeutic relationship through rapport and building trust between the client and the therapist.
My therapeutic philosophy involves utilizing a holistic approach incorporating Gestalt and Adlerian therapies. As a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in athletes, children, adolescents, and young adults, I frequently work with clients experiencing issues related to poor sport or school performance, life changes during adolescence, life transitioning from college to career, parenting issues, sibling relationships, and divorce family transitioning. Topical issues may include low self-esteem , ADHD, transitioning from athletic identity, peer relationships, anger management, self-mutilation, eating disorders, and self-empowerment. A fundamental element in my approach is establishing the therapeutic relationship through rapport and building trust between the client and the therapist.
(972) 347-4096 View (972) 347-4096
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
Photo of Dr. Thomas C. Johnson, Psychological Associate in McKinney, TX
Dr. Thomas C. Johnson
Psychological Associate, PsyD, LPA
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75069
I have a breadth of training and experience in working with individuals from diverse populations, and providing psychological services across the lifespan. My approach is to form relationships based on trust, respect and in a safe environment, facilitating growth in your overall well-being. I have a deep compassion for helping those individuals who want to improve their quality of life so that they may lead a life that matters. I received my doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from the Texas School of Professional Psychology, and am a Licensed Psychological Associate in the state of Texas.
I have a breadth of training and experience in working with individuals from diverse populations, and providing psychological services across the lifespan. My approach is to form relationships based on trust, respect and in a safe environment, facilitating growth in your overall well-being. I have a deep compassion for helping those individuals who want to improve their quality of life so that they may lead a life that matters. I received my doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from the Texas School of Professional Psychology, and am a Licensed Psychological Associate in the state of Texas.
(817) 697-2480 View (817) 697-2480

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Prime Counseling , Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Prime Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, NCC, MBA, EMDR
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
It is common for our clients to be struggling with active addiction, self-harm, suicidal ideation, broken relationships, psychiatric hospital visits, illegal activity, sexual assault, etc.
We are experts at helping you heal from unwanted and unhealthy behaviors. Our team specializes in distinct behaviors and diagnoses that allow us to treat what you are struggling with. Our clients have typically been to multiple treatment centers, therapists, psychologists, hospitals, etc. and none have been able to completely understand. Collaboration is a strong focus to ensure that both you as an individual and your family unit sprint towards a healthy state. We often have calls with psychiatrists, other therapists, recovery coaches, and family members to ensure we fully understand the history and current state.
It is common for our clients to be struggling with active addiction, self-harm, suicidal ideation, broken relationships, psychiatric hospital visits, illegal activity, sexual assault, etc.
We are experts at helping you heal from unwanted and unhealthy behaviors. Our team specializes in distinct behaviors and diagnoses that allow us to treat what you are struggling with. Our clients have typically been to multiple treatment centers, therapists, psychologists, hospitals, etc. and none have been able to completely understand. Collaboration is a strong focus to ensure that both you as an individual and your family unit sprint towards a healthy state. We often have calls with psychiatrists, other therapists, recovery coaches, and family members to ensure we fully understand the history and current state.
(469) 824-9847 View (469) 824-9847
Photo of Tom Files, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Tom Files
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Allen, TX 75013
Not accepting new clients
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, my primary goal is to assist my clients in finding purpose and meaning in their lives. My career has been dedicated to helping people improve their quality of life, regardless of their situation. I believe skilled counseling can be beneficial to all individuals in every season. I have facilitated both family and couple therapy and have also worked with clients dealing with addictions. I have come alongside clients in all phases of life and have spoken on a national level on the topics of suffering and end-of-life decisions.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, my primary goal is to assist my clients in finding purpose and meaning in their lives. My career has been dedicated to helping people improve their quality of life, regardless of their situation. I believe skilled counseling can be beneficial to all individuals in every season. I have facilitated both family and couple therapy and have also worked with clients dealing with addictions. I have come alongside clients in all phases of life and have spoken on a national level on the topics of suffering and end-of-life decisions.
(972) 218-0451 View (972) 218-0451

Online Therapists

Photo of Joshua Kruger, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Joshua Kruger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034
Among Joshua's areas of expertise are the treatment of Complex Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety and Depressive Disorders, Addiction, Personality Disorders, ADHD, Adjustment Disorders, Anger Management, Stress, Major Life Transitions, Relationship Issues, Couples Counseling, Cultural Issues, LGBTQ+, Coping Skills, Suicidal Ideation, and more. He enjoys working with teens, adult individuals, and couples.
Among Joshua's areas of expertise are the treatment of Complex Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety and Depressive Disorders, Addiction, Personality Disorders, ADHD, Adjustment Disorders, Anger Management, Stress, Major Life Transitions, Relationship Issues, Couples Counseling, Cultural Issues, LGBTQ+, Coping Skills, Suicidal Ideation, and more. He enjoys working with teens, adult individuals, and couples.
(214) 239-2821 View (214) 239-2821
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 Adam C. Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in McKinney, TX
Adam C. Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PhD, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Flower Mound, TX 75028
Two Openings Left! I specialize in working with sexual problems, family conflict, adjusting to illness and disability, addiction, and many other relationship challenges. I have a small private practice and only see clients on Fridays because I also teach full-time at a local university. I also offer a free over-the-phone consultation. You can call, email, or send a text message and we can discuss if I am a good fit for your therapy needs.
Two Openings Left! I specialize in working with sexual problems, family conflict, adjusting to illness and disability, addiction, and many other relationship challenges. I have a small private practice and only see clients on Fridays because I also teach full-time at a local university. I also offer a free over-the-phone consultation. You can call, email, or send a text message and we can discuss if I am a good fit for your therapy needs.
(940) 394-0630 View (940) 394-0630
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 Michael Salas, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Michael Salas
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC-S, CSAT, CST, SEP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219
Whether you're figuring out who you are, coming out to others, or looking for a place where you can explore other areas of your life, I can help. I can help if you're looking to explore sex, love, and relationships, if you're looking to heal old traumas, or you're managing an addiction. As an LGBTQ+ therapist who is a part of the community, I understand the need to have an affirming place to explore issues. I know everyone has their own journey figuring out their authentic sexual orientation and gender, but I also know that it can impact several areas of your life.
Whether you're figuring out who you are, coming out to others, or looking for a place where you can explore other areas of your life, I can help. I can help if you're looking to explore sex, love, and relationships, if you're looking to heal old traumas, or you're managing an addiction. As an LGBTQ+ therapist who is a part of the community, I understand the need to have an affirming place to explore issues. I know everyone has their own journey figuring out their authentic sexual orientation and gender, but I also know that it can impact several areas of your life.
(214) 390-9550 x1 View (214) 390-9550 x1
Photo of Tamika D Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Tamika D Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
In addition to specialized training in Trauma, Play Therapy, Family Solution-Focused Therapy and Drug and Addiction Therapy, I have dedicated 17 years of my life to educating students and parents with 6 of those years serving as a school counselor.
In life we all face obstacles that can leave us confused, scared and even anxious. These obstacles can affect our emotional state, our relationships with loved ones and even our careers. My desire is to help clients address these obstacles and reach their full potential. I will use a technical integration approach of researched based theoretical modalities to meet each clients individual needs.
In addition to specialized training in Trauma, Play Therapy, Family Solution-Focused Therapy and Drug and Addiction Therapy, I have dedicated 17 years of my life to educating students and parents with 6 of those years serving as a school counselor.
In life we all face obstacles that can leave us confused, scared and even anxious. These obstacles can affect our emotional state, our relationships with loved ones and even our careers. My desire is to help clients address these obstacles and reach their full potential. I will use a technical integration approach of researched based theoretical modalities to meet each clients individual needs.
(469) 291-9445 View (469) 291-9445
Photo of Peter B. Wilkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
Peter B. Wilkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75204
Hello! I've been a therapist in Dallas for more than twenty years, and in that time, I've helped hundreds of people overcome the obstacles that stood in the way of their happiness. These issues include depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship issues, substance abuse, and trauma-related issues, among others. I believe the strongest tool a therapist has is a caring, honest therapeutic relationship with the client. If you are ready to take a positive step in finding fulfillment, then I'm ready to help.
Hello! I've been a therapist in Dallas for more than twenty years, and in that time, I've helped hundreds of people overcome the obstacles that stood in the way of their happiness. These issues include depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship issues, substance abuse, and trauma-related issues, among others. I believe the strongest tool a therapist has is a caring, honest therapeutic relationship with the client. If you are ready to take a positive step in finding fulfillment, then I'm ready to help.
(469) 844-4262 View (469) 844-4262
Photo of Matthew Leif Peterson, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Matthew Leif Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Flower Mound, TX 75022  (Online Only)
My only concern is you. My non-judging and calm presence are referred to as unconditional positive regard, where I provide a safe environment to unpack issues in a manner that brings about true change. I work with a wide range of individuals dealing with everything from depression and substance issues to domestic violence, PTSD, body dysmorphia, adjustment disorders, addiction, ADHD, bi-polar, grief, anxiety, and depression. I focus on CBT, existential, and person-centered modalities to enable progress towards a healthier mental state.
My only concern is you. My non-judging and calm presence are referred to as unconditional positive regard, where I provide a safe environment to unpack issues in a manner that brings about true change. I work with a wide range of individuals dealing with everything from depression and substance issues to domestic violence, PTSD, body dysmorphia, adjustment disorders, addiction, ADHD, bi-polar, grief, anxiety, and depression. I focus on CBT, existential, and person-centered modalities to enable progress towards a healthier mental state.
(214) 427-8373 View (214) 427-8373
Photo of Alexa Marrach, Psychologist in McKinney, TX
Alexa Marrach
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75231
I have extensive experience working with people coping with different types of issues ranging from mild adjustment difficulties to chronic and severe psychosis. I have worked with clients in various treatment settings, including out-patient clinics, a university counseling center, a partial hospitalization program, nursing homes, psychiatric in-patient treatment, residential substance abuse treatment programs, and private practice. My areas of specialization include relationship issues, loss / grief, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and post-partum adjustment. In addition, I treat both individuals and couples.
I have extensive experience working with people coping with different types of issues ranging from mild adjustment difficulties to chronic and severe psychosis. I have worked with clients in various treatment settings, including out-patient clinics, a university counseling center, a partial hospitalization program, nursing homes, psychiatric in-patient treatment, residential substance abuse treatment programs, and private practice. My areas of specialization include relationship issues, loss / grief, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and post-partum adjustment. In addition, I treat both individuals and couples.
(214) 519-8641 View (214) 519-8641
Photo of Valor Therapy, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Valor Therapy, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, LCDC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Wills Point, TX 75169  (Online Only)
More recently, as an ex-police officer of 13-years, I also work with first-responders and ex-military (or current) personnel who are suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
My name is Roberto "Robert" Guerrero, I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in Texas, and CCTP, National Certified Counselor (NCC) and BC-TMH provider. I have over nine years of experience in the field of mental health and chemical dependency, and currently operate a private counseling practice exclusively online near Dallas, Texas. I primarily work with young adults and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, career issues, relationship and marriage problems, and other life challenges. I also offer consulting services for business professionals.
More recently, as an ex-police officer of 13-years, I also work with first-responders and ex-military (or current) personnel who are suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
My name is Roberto "Robert" Guerrero, I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in Texas, and CCTP, National Certified Counselor (NCC) and BC-TMH provider. I have over nine years of experience in the field of mental health and chemical dependency, and currently operate a private counseling practice exclusively online near Dallas, Texas. I primarily work with young adults and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, career issues, relationship and marriage problems, and other life challenges. I also offer consulting services for business professionals.
(214) 833-8162 View (214) 833-8162
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 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
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.