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 Steven R. Scott, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Steven R. Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
Welcome to the practice of Steven R. Scott. Steven works with a large variety of people by providing individual psychotherapy, family and marital counseling, premarital counseling, grief resolution, teen counseling, and group therapy. Steven's goal is to make your therapeutic experience as fulfilling as possible. His solutions focused approach helps people reach their goals as efficiently as possible. Steven has over twenty years of experience, which allows him to be able to customize a treatment plan that will suit your needs. Steven now offers office hours as well as phone and video sessions. Call today for a consultation.
Welcome to the practice of Steven R. Scott. Steven works with a large variety of people by providing individual psychotherapy, family and marital counseling, premarital counseling, grief resolution, teen counseling, and group therapy. Steven's goal is to make your therapeutic experience as fulfilling as possible. His solutions focused approach helps people reach their goals as efficiently as possible. Steven has over twenty years of experience, which allows him to be able to customize a treatment plan that will suit your needs. Steven now offers office hours as well as phone and video sessions. Call today for a consultation.
(972) 380-1842 View (972) 380-1842
Photo of Community Counseling Associates, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Community Counseling Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, CSC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
Need help now? Call our caring staff today to discover how we can provide you solutions for life. Our team of counselors work together helping you with the most effective tools and resources possible! Our director has over 25 years of experience and a recognized national expert. We offer Solution Focused Counseling, CBT, & DBT interventions for adults, couples, children, teens, and families! If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, anxiety, marital issues, family conflict, grief, ADHD, trauma or other life challenges, we are here to provide a supportive, relaxing environment, and opportunities for change.
Need help now? Call our caring staff today to discover how we can provide you solutions for life. Our team of counselors work together helping you with the most effective tools and resources possible! Our director has over 25 years of experience and a recognized national expert. We offer Solution Focused Counseling, CBT, & DBT interventions for adults, couples, children, teens, and families! If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, anxiety, marital issues, family conflict, grief, ADHD, trauma or other life challenges, we are here to provide a supportive, relaxing environment, and opportunities for change.
(214) 919-5829 View (214) 919-5829

Online Therapists

Photo of Sandra Oswald, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Sandra Oswald
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75243
Some of the areas I specialize in helping clients work through are trauma, anxiety, depression, marriage and family issues, addiction, grief and loss, self-worth and esteem, and mood disorders.
With 14 years of experience in therapy, I truly enjoy my job. I am compassionate about helping others establish a strong foundation so they can effectively cope with current struggles as well as struggles they’ll be approached with in the future. My clients would describe me as compassionate, easy to talk to, and very understanding. I'm sensitive to the unique experiences of each individual and believe connection, trust, and understanding are essential to the therapeutic process. I value getting goals accomplished and making progress during each session.
Some of the areas I specialize in helping clients work through are trauma, anxiety, depression, marriage and family issues, addiction, grief and loss, self-worth and esteem, and mood disorders.
With 14 years of experience in therapy, I truly enjoy my job. I am compassionate about helping others establish a strong foundation so they can effectively cope with current struggles as well as struggles they’ll be approached with in the future. My clients would describe me as compassionate, easy to talk to, and very understanding. I'm sensitive to the unique experiences of each individual and believe connection, trust, and understanding are essential to the therapeutic process. I value getting goals accomplished and making progress during each session.
(972) 526-7167 View (972) 526-7167
Photo of Sheer Essence Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
Sheer Essence Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MCJ, LCDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76115
To have healthy relationships, we must first have a healthy mindset. Have you ever felt like there was more to your life than what you are experiencing now? Are you tired of struggling with anger, depression, anxiety, or addiction? There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside of you (Mayou Angelou). I provide individual, family, and group psychotherapy to adults and adolescents struggling with a broad range of issues, including mental health, grief/loss, trauma, and substance abuse. My mission in life is not merely to survive but to thrive and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.
To have healthy relationships, we must first have a healthy mindset. Have you ever felt like there was more to your life than what you are experiencing now? Are you tired of struggling with anger, depression, anxiety, or addiction? There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside of you (Mayou Angelou). I provide individual, family, and group psychotherapy to adults and adolescents struggling with a broad range of issues, including mental health, grief/loss, trauma, and substance abuse. My mission in life is not merely to survive but to thrive and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.
(817) 934-5635 View (817) 934-5635
Photo of Jonathan Pruitt, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Jonathan Pruitt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, NCC, EMDR, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75252
My passion lies in empowering clients to overcome obstacles and realize their full potential, whether addressing addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and/or trauma, I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for exploration and transformation. Through individual and group therapy modalities, I strive to foster resilience, self-awareness, and meaningful connections, guiding each individual towards a life of fulfillment and well-being.
My passion lies in empowering clients to overcome obstacles and realize their full potential, whether addressing addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and/or trauma, I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for exploration and transformation. Through individual and group therapy modalities, I strive to foster resilience, self-awareness, and meaningful connections, guiding each individual towards a life of fulfillment and well-being.
(469) 772-6864 View (469) 772-6864
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 Leigh Barnett, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Leigh Barnett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75243
I specialize in working with adolescents, adults and couples who struggle with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, mood disorders and relationship issues. I will help you learn to cope with present stressors or process past experiences. It is important that we establish goals, and I will actively work to help you meet them. I develop personal and genuine relationships with my clients, which is helpful in developing a plan that is tailored to your individual needs.
I specialize in working with adolescents, adults and couples who struggle with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, mood disorders and relationship issues. I will help you learn to cope with present stressors or process past experiences. It is important that we establish goals, and I will actively work to help you meet them. I develop personal and genuine relationships with my clients, which is helpful in developing a plan that is tailored to your individual needs.
(972) 388-3648 View (972) 388-3648
Photo of Chris Epstein, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Chris Epstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75230
I have special interests in working with those struggling with anxiety and depressive disorders, dual diagnosis, spiritual issues, substance use disorders, boundary issues, conflict resolution, interpersonal skill-building and bipolar disorder.
Being a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas for many years, I have enjoyed a type of therapy that allows an individual to find freedom through acceptance of their issues rather than running from the reality of their existence. As we come to understand our past and how it has shaped us, we can then begin the practice of choosing differently for ourselves in the present and for our future. This search is a sacred process where therapist and client join together, rather than a therapy done 'to' you as a client. I would like to join in that process with you!
I have special interests in working with those struggling with anxiety and depressive disorders, dual diagnosis, spiritual issues, substance use disorders, boundary issues, conflict resolution, interpersonal skill-building and bipolar disorder.
Being a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas for many years, I have enjoyed a type of therapy that allows an individual to find freedom through acceptance of their issues rather than running from the reality of their existence. As we come to understand our past and how it has shaped us, we can then begin the practice of choosing differently for ourselves in the present and for our future. This search is a sacred process where therapist and client join together, rather than a therapy done 'to' you as a client. I would like to join in that process with you!
(469) 208-3861 View (469) 208-3861
Photo of Room for Change, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Room for Change
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Garland, TX 75043
(keywords: depression, anxiety, grief, substance use, therapy, counseling, help, alone, EMDR,Garland, Mesquite) .
Are you having feelings of uncertainty, fear, and emotional isolation? There is not need to do this alone. We are dedicated to providing support to the community during this time by encouraging, strategizing, and educating. By using a secure video chat, we are ensuring people are not experiencing lapses in care and have access to the help they deserve and need.
(keywords: depression, anxiety, grief, substance use, therapy, counseling, help, alone, EMDR,Garland, Mesquite) .
Are you having feelings of uncertainty, fear, and emotional isolation? There is not need to do this alone. We are dedicated to providing support to the community during this time by encouraging, strategizing, and educating. By using a secure video chat, we are ensuring people are not experiencing lapses in care and have access to the help they deserve and need.
(972) 449-7604 View (972) 449-7604
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 Winifred Okafor, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in McKinney, TX
Winifred Okafor
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCDC, ICADC, QMHP, DOT SAP
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76006
I am Winifred Okafor, a dedicated and compassionate professional licensed in Texas as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC), and credentialed International Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor (ICADC), and DOT Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). It is with great honor that I extend my hand to walk beside you on your path to healing and growth. Within the transformative embrace of Purpose Driven Services (PDS), I am committed to being your guide, confidant, and advocate. In embarking on a therapeutic journey, trust is the cornerstone upon which our partnership is built. My belief in holistic healing drives my approach.
I am Winifred Okafor, a dedicated and compassionate professional licensed in Texas as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC), and credentialed International Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor (ICADC), and DOT Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). It is with great honor that I extend my hand to walk beside you on your path to healing and growth. Within the transformative embrace of Purpose Driven Services (PDS), I am committed to being your guide, confidant, and advocate. In embarking on a therapeutic journey, trust is the cornerstone upon which our partnership is built. My belief in holistic healing drives my approach.
(817) 587-9893 View (817) 587-9893
Photo of Rachel R. Pavlov, LPC Associate in McKinney, TX
Rachel R. Pavlov
LPC Associate, LCDC, CBT, SAP, ASAM, CTMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corinth, TX 76208
Are you experiencing sadness, anxiety or overwhelm that just won't go away? Have you tried everything you can think of to make it stop? We can work together to lift yourself from limiting beliefs, increase motivation, enhance problem solving skills & create new ways to handle the stress life throws your way. Together we will improve your emotional regulation, find new ways to cope, & decrease your overall symptoms to bring balance into your life. Some of my specific areas of focus are anxiety, trauma, depression, self-esteem, relationships, core beliefs, & substance use. I have advanced training in trauma focused care.
Are you experiencing sadness, anxiety or overwhelm that just won't go away? Have you tried everything you can think of to make it stop? We can work together to lift yourself from limiting beliefs, increase motivation, enhance problem solving skills & create new ways to handle the stress life throws your way. Together we will improve your emotional regulation, find new ways to cope, & decrease your overall symptoms to bring balance into your life. Some of my specific areas of focus are anxiety, trauma, depression, self-esteem, relationships, core beliefs, & substance use. I have advanced training in trauma focused care.
(214) 712-3707 View (214) 712-3707
Photo of Gary Hominick, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Gary Hominick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Aledo, TX 76008  (Online Only)
I specialize in sex/porn addiction as well as other sexual and relational concerns.
Are you looking for help to repair or enrich your relationship? I help men and women in all kinds of relationships get to the happy healthy place we all deserve to be in. Maybe there was infidelity, excessive porn usage, or other secrets that are threatening to end your relationship. It could also just be that the fire you used to have is gone and you want it back. Regardless of the severity, I help individuals in all aspects of their relationships. If you're ready to live the life you want with your partner/husband/wife, there is a way to get your life back and have that relationship.
I specialize in sex/porn addiction as well as other sexual and relational concerns.
Are you looking for help to repair or enrich your relationship? I help men and women in all kinds of relationships get to the happy healthy place we all deserve to be in. Maybe there was infidelity, excessive porn usage, or other secrets that are threatening to end your relationship. It could also just be that the fire you used to have is gone and you want it back. Regardless of the severity, I help individuals in all aspects of their relationships. If you're ready to live the life you want with your partner/husband/wife, there is a way to get your life back and have that relationship.
(817) 242-4338 View (817) 242-4338
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 Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75204
He also works with clients with debilitating addiction issues.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
He also works with clients with debilitating addiction issues.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(281) 984-5276 View (281) 984-5276
Photo of Peaceful You, Marriage & Family Therapist in McKinney, TX
Peaceful You
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75063
We use a pragmatic approach coupled with empathy to help treat: *ANXIETY *DEPRESSION *NEGATIVE THINKING *SELF ESTEEM ISSUES *ADDICTION *RELATIONSHIP PROBLEMS among other issues. This life has its struggles and challenges. These roadblocks in life hinder us from achieving peace with ourselves and our loved ones, peace we all deserve to have. Know that you are not alone and that things can change for the better.
We use a pragmatic approach coupled with empathy to help treat: *ANXIETY *DEPRESSION *NEGATIVE THINKING *SELF ESTEEM ISSUES *ADDICTION *RELATIONSHIP PROBLEMS among other issues. This life has its struggles and challenges. These roadblocks in life hinder us from achieving peace with ourselves and our loved ones, peace we all deserve to have. Know that you are not alone and that things can change for the better.
(972) 992-1570 View (972) 992-1570
Photo of Frederick L Theobald, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Frederick L Theobald
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP, CSAT, EMDR, IMAGO
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75238
I am offering telehealth sessions using internet and telephone options! I believe that you are endowed with the power and energy to overcome any obstacle in life but sometimes, when overwhelmed with life's challenges, you lose contact with your own power. I can help you regain balance in life and regain forward momentum to living the life you are destined to live. I am particularly interested in working with yindividuals and couples struggling with life transitions, those who are walking through loss, and those struggling with addictions and/or substance abuse.
I am offering telehealth sessions using internet and telephone options! I believe that you are endowed with the power and energy to overcome any obstacle in life but sometimes, when overwhelmed with life's challenges, you lose contact with your own power. I can help you regain balance in life and regain forward momentum to living the life you are destined to live. I am particularly interested in working with yindividuals and couples struggling with life transitions, those who are walking through loss, and those struggling with addictions and/or substance abuse.
(214) 960-2478 View (214) 960-2478
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 Randall E Kitchen, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Randall E Kitchen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forney, TX 75126  (Online Only)
I'm an Adlerian therapist who is trained in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (A beautiful & effective model of therapy) and have specialized in helping couples for the last 15 years. You'll find I make therapy safe, good, and productive. I use a collaborative approach where you and I work as a team to decrease and eliminate your symptoms and issues so you can achieve your goals and live a happier and successful life. Many of my clients come to me seeking help with addiction related problems. My work is rooted in over 25 years, and I help them create their unique personal solution to the challenges they are facing in their lives.
I'm an Adlerian therapist who is trained in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (A beautiful & effective model of therapy) and have specialized in helping couples for the last 15 years. You'll find I make therapy safe, good, and productive. I use a collaborative approach where you and I work as a team to decrease and eliminate your symptoms and issues so you can achieve your goals and live a happier and successful life. Many of my clients come to me seeking help with addiction related problems. My work is rooted in over 25 years, and I help them create their unique personal solution to the challenges they are facing in their lives.
(469) 970-5593 View (469) 970-5593
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.