Photo of Ganyu Shi, Counselor in McKinney, TX
Ganyu Shi
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
They say, "Addicts get an early taste of hell on earth." Are you "struggling with addiction," cries are unheard, brokenness is unmanageable, and you are losing your confidence with no future? When I was young, I experienced the harm of drugs like a prodigal son leaving his father! However, after 30 years of 180-degree transformation, I have completed Doctorate of Ministry, CCPC Canada addiction certificates (7000 hours of practice), and senior counseling of marriage counseling. I welcomed nearly 1,000 Chinese addiction patients with all kinds of problems.
They say, "Addicts get an early taste of hell on earth." Are you "struggling with addiction," cries are unheard, brokenness is unmanageable, and you are losing your confidence with no future? When I was young, I experienced the harm of drugs like a prodigal son leaving his father! However, after 30 years of 180-degree transformation, I have completed Doctorate of Ministry, CCPC Canada addiction certificates (7000 hours of practice), and senior counseling of marriage counseling. I welcomed nearly 1,000 Chinese addiction patients with all kinds of problems.
(972) 848-8853 View (972) 848-8853

Online Therapists

Photo of Jennifer Gregory, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in McKinney, TX
Jennifer Gregory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, EMDR, TBRI, RPE
Verified Verified
Tyler, TX 75701
I specialize in trauma informed and attachment based therapy, TBRI, EMDR, Brain Gym, individual/couples/group counseling, Circle of Security Parenting and Substance Abuse assessments (SASSI), Child Custody evaluations, Bonding assessments, and Psychosocial evaluations.
My goal is to help my clients find health and healing through introspection and understanding of their history and making active change in their lives.
I specialize in trauma informed and attachment based therapy, TBRI, EMDR, Brain Gym, individual/couples/group counseling, Circle of Security Parenting and Substance Abuse assessments (SASSI), Child Custody evaluations, Bonding assessments, and Psychosocial evaluations.
My goal is to help my clients find health and healing through introspection and understanding of their history and making active change in their lives.
(903) 459-5100 View (903) 459-5100
Photo of 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 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 Kristina McCray, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Kristina McCray
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LSSP
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75082
Kristina McCray is a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience working as a mental health professional. She has experience with working with people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds on a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, personality disorders, substance addiction, identity problems, self-esteem problems, domestic, sexual abuse, ADHD, etc. Kristina also has helped many people who have experienced physical and emotional trauma. Moreover, Kristina is a School Psychologist.
Kristina McCray is a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience working as a mental health professional. She has experience with working with people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds on a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, personality disorders, substance addiction, identity problems, self-esteem problems, domestic, sexual abuse, ADHD, etc. Kristina also has helped many people who have experienced physical and emotional trauma. Moreover, Kristina is a School Psychologist.
(512) 883-7116 View (512) 883-7116
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 Woodcrest Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Woodcrest Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75214
My counseling practice focuses on adolescent and adults with a specialized focus on LGBTQ+ populations. As a gay man, I am held by deeply spiritual beliefs to help my LGBTQ+ community whenever possible. I also treat addiction, dual-diagnosis, spirituality, anxiety, gender identity, depression, divorce, grief and those who are recovering from religious abuse. I meet clients where they are in life and that is always my starting point while building a relationship to facilitate change.
My counseling practice focuses on adolescent and adults with a specialized focus on LGBTQ+ populations. As a gay man, I am held by deeply spiritual beliefs to help my LGBTQ+ community whenever possible. I also treat addiction, dual-diagnosis, spirituality, anxiety, gender identity, depression, divorce, grief and those who are recovering from religious abuse. I meet clients where they are in life and that is always my starting point while building a relationship to facilitate change.
(469) 654-4027 View (469) 654-4027
Photo of Jason Volden Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Jason Volden Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75208
I got my Master’s degree in Counseling from Southern Methodist University, specializing in substance use and working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Have you even felt powerless? Maybe you’ve felt it in a relationship, or in your family, or at your job. Maybe at times you've felt powerless against your own mind. I believe that there’s a deep well of power that exists inside you. All you have to do is find it and reconnect to it. I would be honored to take that journey of self-discovery with you. You are far more powerful than you know, and I hope to help you explore your power.
I got my Master’s degree in Counseling from Southern Methodist University, specializing in substance use and working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Have you even felt powerless? Maybe you’ve felt it in a relationship, or in your family, or at your job. Maybe at times you've felt powerless against your own mind. I believe that there’s a deep well of power that exists inside you. All you have to do is find it and reconnect to it. I would be honored to take that journey of self-discovery with you. You are far more powerful than you know, and I hope to help you explore your power.
(469) 253-8804 View (469) 253-8804
Photo of Rosa Maria Rangel, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in McKinney, TX
Rosa Maria Rangel
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCDC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75231
Are you or someone you know suffering with an addiction? Getting help is going to be hard, you will have ups and downs, but if you are ready to get clean and sober you will be able to overcome your addiction and begin living a more fulfilling life in sobriety. No matter whats happened in the past, how many times you have relapsed, or how terrible your life has become, never give up. Feel free to call and make an appointment as a first step into changing your life around.
Are you or someone you know suffering with an addiction? Getting help is going to be hard, you will have ups and downs, but if you are ready to get clean and sober you will be able to overcome your addiction and begin living a more fulfilling life in sobriety. No matter whats happened in the past, how many times you have relapsed, or how terrible your life has become, never give up. Feel free to call and make an appointment as a first step into changing your life around.
(469) 644-7126 View (469) 644-7126
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 Karl Reigle, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Karl Reigle
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76123
I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families who are struggling with conflicts in their lives, whether they are emotional, psychological, relational or any combination of these. I have also worked with persons with substance abuse issues, abuse/trauma issues, and mental health issues. All of them are looking for healing and restoration to a sense of identity and meaning, which can lead to a greater sense of security and purpose in life. Most seem to want to know themselves and other persons better and feel safe.
I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families who are struggling with conflicts in their lives, whether they are emotional, psychological, relational or any combination of these. I have also worked with persons with substance abuse issues, abuse/trauma issues, and mental health issues. All of them are looking for healing and restoration to a sense of identity and meaning, which can lead to a greater sense of security and purpose in life. Most seem to want to know themselves and other persons better and feel safe.
(817) 409-7684 View (817) 409-7684
Photo of Deborah Wall, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Deborah Wall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paris, TX 75460  (Online Only)
Deborah Wall, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma and Texas. Her extensive career history has focused on stabilizing and promoting personal functioning while empowering others to achieve long-term growth. As an action-oriented therapist, Deborah strives to help others resolve stressors and become the best version of themselves. This concept is evidenced by her advocation of adults, children and families to become addiction free, resolve traumas, and develop a healthy sense of self to combat life's difficulties. Additionally, she is a certified SYMBIS premarital and marital counseling facilitator.
Deborah Wall, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma and Texas. Her extensive career history has focused on stabilizing and promoting personal functioning while empowering others to achieve long-term growth. As an action-oriented therapist, Deborah strives to help others resolve stressors and become the best version of themselves. This concept is evidenced by her advocation of adults, children and families to become addiction free, resolve traumas, and develop a healthy sense of self to combat life's difficulties. Additionally, she is a certified SYMBIS premarital and marital counseling facilitator.
(430) 205-8515 View (430) 205-8515
Photo of Rick David Bingham, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in McKinney, TX
Rick David Bingham
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, BA , AADC, LCDC, CAS
Verified Verified
Carrollton, TX 75006
If you are struggling with a craving for a substance, or being challenged with the uncomfortable feelings that occur after a detox, I can help you.
Life can be complicated. It can be confusing. It can just wear a person out. Sometimes, just an objective listener is all we want, all we need. As a licensed counselor, an ordained minister, and what they call an acu-detox specialist; I can offer you a listening ear, an acupuncture treatment, and a balanced view of how to navigate this thing we call life. If your experiences with religion have left you filled with guilt and shame, a more balanced and realistic view of spirituality may be helpful to you. I am supportive of abstinence, Moderation Management, S.O.S., S.M.A.R.T., MAT, & all other forms of harm reduction recovery.
If you are struggling with a craving for a substance, or being challenged with the uncomfortable feelings that occur after a detox, I can help you.
Life can be complicated. It can be confusing. It can just wear a person out. Sometimes, just an objective listener is all we want, all we need. As a licensed counselor, an ordained minister, and what they call an acu-detox specialist; I can offer you a listening ear, an acupuncture treatment, and a balanced view of how to navigate this thing we call life. If your experiences with religion have left you filled with guilt and shame, a more balanced and realistic view of spirituality may be helpful to you. I am supportive of abstinence, Moderation Management, S.O.S., S.M.A.R.T., MAT, & all other forms of harm reduction recovery.
(214) 731-4587 View (214) 731-4587
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 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 Ralph Casazza Phd, Psychologist in McKinney, TX
Ralph Casazza Phd
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75231
I am Dr. Ralph Casazza, a licensed psychologist; with clinical training & experience focusing on the treatment of issues related to depression, anxiety, work stress/career counseling, communication skills development, chronic medical conditions, pain management, PTSD, substance abuse, & other addictive behaviors. I have worked in various settings and with different client populations, including adults, senior citizens, medical populations (hospitals, nursing homes, and rehab facilities), LGBTQ+, substance abuse clinics, etc.
I am Dr. Ralph Casazza, a licensed psychologist; with clinical training & experience focusing on the treatment of issues related to depression, anxiety, work stress/career counseling, communication skills development, chronic medical conditions, pain management, PTSD, substance abuse, & other addictive behaviors. I have worked in various settings and with different client populations, including adults, senior citizens, medical populations (hospitals, nursing homes, and rehab facilities), LGBTQ+, substance abuse clinics, etc.
(469) 966-7960 View (469) 966-7960
Photo of Eric A. Ward, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Eric A. Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mabank, TX 75147
From the first session, you will be encouraged with real and practical tools you can use to help combat the addiction, anxiety, depression, fear, anger, hopelessness, relational issues, and overwhelm in your life.
NOW OFFERING IN-PERSON OR ONLINE SESSIONS! Stress & past trauma can sneak up & have us feeling stuck. Chemical & sexual addictions can effect our work, our marriages, our relationships, & our lives. The weight is heavy, but there is hope. For almost twenty years, I've worked with adults, adolescents, couples, & families to help them overcome all manner of addictions & traumas, alleviate anxiety & depression, improve relationships, & reach their personal & relational potential. If needed, we can also connect you with someone to help you with medication management. You are not alone.
From the first session, you will be encouraged with real and practical tools you can use to help combat the addiction, anxiety, depression, fear, anger, hopelessness, relational issues, and overwhelm in your life.
NOW OFFERING IN-PERSON OR ONLINE SESSIONS! Stress & past trauma can sneak up & have us feeling stuck. Chemical & sexual addictions can effect our work, our marriages, our relationships, & our lives. The weight is heavy, but there is hope. For almost twenty years, I've worked with adults, adolescents, couples, & families to help them overcome all manner of addictions & traumas, alleviate anxiety & depression, improve relationships, & reach their personal & relational potential. If needed, we can also connect you with someone to help you with medication management. You are not alone.
(430) 204-2086 View (430) 204-2086
Photo of Transformed Life Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
Transformed Life Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Prairie, TX 75052  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience in: domestic violence, addiction, depression, OCD, anxiety, grief/loss, anger/rage, ADHD, borderline personality disorder, suicidal/homicidal ideation (thoughts), self-esteem, agoraphobia (with or without panic attacks), premenstrual dysphoric disorder, probation and jail issues & trauma.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in helping her clients overcome the issues of life.My goal is to form safe and trusting relationships with clients.One of my objectives in working with clients is to help them live purposeful, and satisfied lives.Having overcome life-altering losses of my own and having become a Licensed Professional Counselor I have obtained the tools to help others overcome as well.Today I work with adults who are struggling with the issues of life including lack of boundaries, mental illness and personality disorders. I have extensive experience working with those who have endured trauma.
I have extensive experience in: domestic violence, addiction, depression, OCD, anxiety, grief/loss, anger/rage, ADHD, borderline personality disorder, suicidal/homicidal ideation (thoughts), self-esteem, agoraphobia (with or without panic attacks), premenstrual dysphoric disorder, probation and jail issues & trauma.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in helping her clients overcome the issues of life.My goal is to form safe and trusting relationships with clients.One of my objectives in working with clients is to help them live purposeful, and satisfied lives.Having overcome life-altering losses of my own and having become a Licensed Professional Counselor I have obtained the tools to help others overcome as well.Today I work with adults who are struggling with the issues of life including lack of boundaries, mental illness and personality disorders. I have extensive experience working with those who have endured trauma.
(214) 225-4772 View (214) 225-4772
Photo of David Hanson, Licensed Professional Counselor in McKinney, TX
David Hanson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MDiv, CSAT, EMDR, SE
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75209
I address issues of sexual abuse and addiction, partners of infidelity or sex addicts trauma, substance abuse, developmental immaturity, divorce, and failure to launch young men.
Many people see therapy as a one-sided conversation, with little opportunity for interaction or getting to experience each other as real people. I can promise you that I am as real as it gets! I want to help you achieve whatever solutions and life changes you are looking for while enjoying the process as much as possible and experiencing yourself in new ways. Simply put, I don't believe therapy has to always be a painful thing. Calling a therapist can be intimidating, but I hope you will take a moment (and maybe a deep breath) to call and see how I can help.
I address issues of sexual abuse and addiction, partners of infidelity or sex addicts trauma, substance abuse, developmental immaturity, divorce, and failure to launch young men.
Many people see therapy as a one-sided conversation, with little opportunity for interaction or getting to experience each other as real people. I can promise you that I am as real as it gets! I want to help you achieve whatever solutions and life changes you are looking for while enjoying the process as much as possible and experiencing yourself in new ways. Simply put, I don't believe therapy has to always be a painful thing. Calling a therapist can be intimidating, but I hope you will take a moment (and maybe a deep breath) to call and see how I can help.
(469) 300-5247 View (469) 300-5247
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
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.