Therapists in Meridian, TX
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Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Texas below.Online Therapists
Tina Marie Schmidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leander, TX 78641
In-Person & Saturday availability! Your "stuff" is destroying your happiness, your relationships and your quality of life. You feel that things have got to change, and you want that change to start sooner than later. I can help you with that. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, past traumas, anger, low self-esteem or caught in the grips of substance abuse, I am here to support you every step of the way. Together, we will explore your experiences, uncover your strengths, and empower you to make lasting changes. You need change. You deserve change. Contact me today to schedule an appointment to begin.
In-Person & Saturday availability! Your "stuff" is destroying your happiness, your relationships and your quality of life. You feel that things have got to change, and you want that change to start sooner than later. I can help you with that. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, past traumas, anger, low self-esteem or caught in the grips of substance abuse, I am here to support you every step of the way. Together, we will explore your experiences, uncover your strengths, and empower you to make lasting changes. You need change. You deserve change. Contact me today to schedule an appointment to begin.
Elizabeth Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I help adults, adolescents and their families restore balance to their lives. My experience includes 17 years in private practice and over 20 years in the addiction field, including; substances, food, sex & religion. As an alternative option to traditional counseling, I offer an Intensive Program. Intensives are highly individualized and designed to assist clients in reaching their goals quicker. Clients who want to fast track their results or deep dive into an area of concern should consider doing and Intensive.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I help adults, adolescents and their families restore balance to their lives. My experience includes 17 years in private practice and over 20 years in the addiction field, including; substances, food, sex & religion. As an alternative option to traditional counseling, I offer an Intensive Program. Intensives are highly individualized and designed to assist clients in reaching their goals quicker. Clients who want to fast track their results or deep dive into an area of concern should consider doing and Intensive.
Kelly Couture
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034
I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar, substance abuse/dependency and thought disorders (ex: psychotic thought processes).
I understand my clients are unique individuals. The approach to their therapy should be just as unique. There is no "cookie cutter" approach in working with the subtle nuances that we all possess as people. As a clinician, I find working with people who want to grow incredibly rewarding! Ideally, I find clients who are curious, want to grow and who are dedicated to working on themselves wonderful to work with. However, sometimes, clients may be confused, scared and not sure what next steps to take. I find working with these clients just as rewarding!
I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar, substance abuse/dependency and thought disorders (ex: psychotic thought processes).
I understand my clients are unique individuals. The approach to their therapy should be just as unique. There is no "cookie cutter" approach in working with the subtle nuances that we all possess as people. As a clinician, I find working with people who want to grow incredibly rewarding! Ideally, I find clients who are curious, want to grow and who are dedicated to working on themselves wonderful to work with. However, sometimes, clients may be confused, scared and not sure what next steps to take. I find working with these clients just as rewarding!
Lisa Barrow
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MAC, LCDC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Granbury, TX 76048
Though much of my clinical experience has been in the realm of addiction recovery, I have also worked consistently with adolescents and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, tauma-related issues, marital and family issues, and complexities of mental health issues.
I believe every person owns an unique and authentic story. My hope is to provide a safe place for individuals to openly and honestly work though the complicated realities of their past and their present, assist them in cultivating hope and to support them as they work to experience transformation in their hearts, minds and lives. We work together to address potential obstacles-mindfully leading clients to a richer, more satisfying life. I work consistently with adolescents and adults struggling with the complexities of mental health issues. No situation is hopeless where openness, honesty and willingness is present.
Though much of my clinical experience has been in the realm of addiction recovery, I have also worked consistently with adolescents and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, tauma-related issues, marital and family issues, and complexities of mental health issues.
I believe every person owns an unique and authentic story. My hope is to provide a safe place for individuals to openly and honestly work though the complicated realities of their past and their present, assist them in cultivating hope and to support them as they work to experience transformation in their hearts, minds and lives. We work together to address potential obstacles-mindfully leading clients to a richer, more satisfying life. I work consistently with adolescents and adults struggling with the complexities of mental health issues. No situation is hopeless where openness, honesty and willingness is present.
Meredith Rogers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harker Heights, TX 76548
My approach to therapy is empathetic and gentle, yet practical and straightforward. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, which is the most widely used evidence-based practice. I partner with my clients to challenge their thoughts, ideas, and behaviors with the goal of facilitating real, lasting change and to achieve personal growth. Some of my specialties include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, coping skills, military family issues, marriage and family counseling. There are "therapy apps" that may be helpful for some but they do not deliver the experience of having therapy in person.
My approach to therapy is empathetic and gentle, yet practical and straightforward. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, which is the most widely used evidence-based practice. I partner with my clients to challenge their thoughts, ideas, and behaviors with the goal of facilitating real, lasting change and to achieve personal growth. Some of my specialties include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, coping skills, military family issues, marriage and family counseling. There are "therapy apps" that may be helpful for some but they do not deliver the experience of having therapy in person.
Dana Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irving, TX 75063
WE OFFER PHONE AND VIDEO SESSIONS. Able to offer ADHD and personality testing. Trading authenticity for safety leads to sacrifices in your life, resulting in anxiety, depression, anger, addiction, etc. One of my goals is to guide you in a daily practice of letting go of who you feel you are supposed to be and embrace who you are. At the end of the day, I want you to feel heard. Through my work with grief, trauma and abuse, I have discovered how necessary it is to live authentically and be able to trust those around you. It is crucial for clients to feel as though they have a part in their therapeutic process and recovery
WE OFFER PHONE AND VIDEO SESSIONS. Able to offer ADHD and personality testing. Trading authenticity for safety leads to sacrifices in your life, resulting in anxiety, depression, anger, addiction, etc. One of my goals is to guide you in a daily practice of letting go of who you feel you are supposed to be and embrace who you are. At the end of the day, I want you to feel heard. Through my work with grief, trauma and abuse, I have discovered how necessary it is to live authentically and be able to trust those around you. It is crucial for clients to feel as though they have a part in their therapeutic process and recovery
Giana Martinez
LPC Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243
I work with clients who deal with Anxiety, Depression, Adult ADHD, Addiction, Life Stressors, Gender Identity/LGBTQ+ issues, Borderline & Cluster B Personality Disorders.
You're not a cookie, and I am not a cookie-cutter therapist. Every person is unique, and my counseling approach is very much tailored to your specific needs. For most people, counseling may be a last resort, one final effort after they’ve tried everything else. Some worry that seeking therapy means they’ve failed; and for others, the idea of therapy is just plain scary or not the way they were “taught to deal with things”. Even so, the fact that you’re reading this means you want to take back control and begin creating the life you really want. Well, you’ve come to the right place!
I work with clients who deal with Anxiety, Depression, Adult ADHD, Addiction, Life Stressors, Gender Identity/LGBTQ+ issues, Borderline & Cluster B Personality Disorders.
You're not a cookie, and I am not a cookie-cutter therapist. Every person is unique, and my counseling approach is very much tailored to your specific needs. For most people, counseling may be a last resort, one final effort after they’ve tried everything else. Some worry that seeking therapy means they’ve failed; and for others, the idea of therapy is just plain scary or not the way they were “taught to deal with things”. Even so, the fact that you’re reading this means you want to take back control and begin creating the life you really want. Well, you’ve come to the right place!
Sana Rahman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75229 (Online Only)
I have experience working with clients battling substance abuse issues, and victims of domestic violence in a non-profit setting as these causes are very important to me, and I am also a passionate advocate for women's rights.
As a first-generation immigrant Muslim woman, I am grateful to offer representation to those who are seeking to improve their mental health. I was raised as the eldest daughter in an immigrant family dynamic and have an extensive understanding of these family systems and how they affect individuals of different birth orders. I have worked with clients of a variety of age ranges, sexual orientations, and cultural backgrounds and pride myself on multicultural awareness and consideration. I hope to help you make steps towards your ideal self by assisting you in building a functional toolbox with tools you can reach for along the way.
I have experience working with clients battling substance abuse issues, and victims of domestic violence in a non-profit setting as these causes are very important to me, and I am also a passionate advocate for women's rights.
As a first-generation immigrant Muslim woman, I am grateful to offer representation to those who are seeking to improve their mental health. I was raised as the eldest daughter in an immigrant family dynamic and have an extensive understanding of these family systems and how they affect individuals of different birth orders. I have worked with clients of a variety of age ranges, sexual orientations, and cultural backgrounds and pride myself on multicultural awareness and consideration. I hope to help you make steps towards your ideal self by assisting you in building a functional toolbox with tools you can reach for along the way.
Passages to Potential PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78717
I specialize in assisting my clients in the final resolution of trauma, developmental attachment disruptions; and significant disturbing events and abuse. I've designed an integrative method based on the Comprehensive Resource Model (CRM) to neuro-physiologically strengthen the body for trauma processing; Brainspotting and EMDR training to systematically and intuitively identify and process to resolution the major issues and deeply seated sources of negative beliefs and negative self image. CRM and Brainspotting, brain based therapies, evolved out of EMDR and are highly effective for a broad range of psychological trauma resolution, performance blocks, ADHD, complex PTSD, substance abuse, etc.
I specialize in assisting my clients in the final resolution of trauma, developmental attachment disruptions; and significant disturbing events and abuse. I've designed an integrative method based on the Comprehensive Resource Model (CRM) to neuro-physiologically strengthen the body for trauma processing; Brainspotting and EMDR training to systematically and intuitively identify and process to resolution the major issues and deeply seated sources of negative beliefs and negative self image. CRM and Brainspotting, brain based therapies, evolved out of EMDR and are highly effective for a broad range of psychological trauma resolution, performance blocks, ADHD, complex PTSD, substance abuse, etc.
Nicole Marshall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092 (Online Only)
I have experience working with children, adolescents, teenagers, families, individuals, couples, and groups to deal with issues such as eating disorders, addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, marital issues, divorce, co-parenting, coping skills, self-harm, stress management, relationship distress, identify development, and life skills.
I specialize in treating eating disorders, women's issues, anxiety, trauma and depression. I have 6+ years working within the eating disorder community. I have 8 years working as a therapist. My goal is to help achieve a healthy and loving relationship one's mind and body. I am here to help through your journey and through the process of healing. My passion is to help you enhance you life by learning health coping skills and realizing one's strength and resiliency.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, teenagers, families, individuals, couples, and groups to deal with issues such as eating disorders, addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, marital issues, divorce, co-parenting, coping skills, self-harm, stress management, relationship distress, identify development, and life skills.
I specialize in treating eating disorders, women's issues, anxiety, trauma and depression. I have 6+ years working within the eating disorder community. I have 8 years working as a therapist. My goal is to help achieve a healthy and loving relationship one's mind and body. I am here to help through your journey and through the process of healing. My passion is to help you enhance you life by learning health coping skills and realizing one's strength and resiliency.
Keshawna Cole
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75287
Mental Health Advocate with 16 years’ experience engaging adolescents, teens, and parents regarding crisis intervention, trauma informed care, trust based relational intervention, solution-oriented treatment, conflict resolution, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy. Dedicated to implementing appropriate interventions regarding domestic violence, substance abuse, interpersonal relationships, and Child Protective Service cases.
Mental Health Advocate with 16 years’ experience engaging adolescents, teens, and parents regarding crisis intervention, trauma informed care, trust based relational intervention, solution-oriented treatment, conflict resolution, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy. Dedicated to implementing appropriate interventions regarding domestic violence, substance abuse, interpersonal relationships, and Child Protective Service cases.
Hope Within Healing, Counseling Services, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mexia, TX 76667
I have experience in working with individuals suffering from substance abuse and/or chemical dependence issues.
My name is Jamie Shields. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a Licensed Chemical Dependence Counselor. My experience with children, teens and adults spans over two decades. I currently specialize in trauma, substance abuse, grief/loss, anxiety, mood disorders. Additionally, I am a Certified EMDR Therapist . I provide an eclectic approach to counseling with my patients by utilizing components of EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and/or Solution Focused Therapy for trauma, anxiety, substance abuse, mood disorders and other obstacles presented during counseling sessions.
I have experience in working with individuals suffering from substance abuse and/or chemical dependence issues.
My name is Jamie Shields. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a Licensed Chemical Dependence Counselor. My experience with children, teens and adults spans over two decades. I currently specialize in trauma, substance abuse, grief/loss, anxiety, mood disorders. Additionally, I am a Certified EMDR Therapist . I provide an eclectic approach to counseling with my patients by utilizing components of EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and/or Solution Focused Therapy for trauma, anxiety, substance abuse, mood disorders and other obstacles presented during counseling sessions.
Jill Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denton, TX 76205
I help clients in areas such as: ADHD, addiction, recovery from affairs, anger management, anxiety, bipolar, body image and disordered eating, boundary setting, Christian counseling, communication, co-parenting, depression, divorce prevention, divorce recovery, grief, launching, life stage transitions, parent-child relationships, and trauma recovery.
In a time when your hope for peace, emotional relief or relational reconciliation may be lost, I can still see the hope for you. My desire as a therapist is to help you see that hope again yourself. I believe everyone is capable of healing and restoration within his or her relationships and within his or her self. I am honored by the opportunity to serve in my role during times of great difficulty for my clients and I rejoice with them as they begin to see positive change in ways they once thought impossible.
I help clients in areas such as: ADHD, addiction, recovery from affairs, anger management, anxiety, bipolar, body image and disordered eating, boundary setting, Christian counseling, communication, co-parenting, depression, divorce prevention, divorce recovery, grief, launching, life stage transitions, parent-child relationships, and trauma recovery.
In a time when your hope for peace, emotional relief or relational reconciliation may be lost, I can still see the hope for you. My desire as a therapist is to help you see that hope again yourself. I believe everyone is capable of healing and restoration within his or her relationships and within his or her self. I am honored by the opportunity to serve in my role during times of great difficulty for my clients and I rejoice with them as they begin to see positive change in ways they once thought impossible.
Clarity Counseling Center of Ellis County, INC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Waxahachie, TX 75165
A mental health diagnosis complicates an addiction, but this counseling addresses both.
With over 30 years of experience, this counseling is conducted with expertise. A safe and nurturing environment makes it easy to open up. As we work together, solutions for your specific circumstance will become clear. Skills such as healthy communication; relaxation; and positive visualization are practiced right in the session. Fees: $100 for 1 hour; and $50 for every additional 30 minutes. Being responsive is a priority, so every effort is made to return your call or email within one business day.
A mental health diagnosis complicates an addiction, but this counseling addresses both.
With over 30 years of experience, this counseling is conducted with expertise. A safe and nurturing environment makes it easy to open up. As we work together, solutions for your specific circumstance will become clear. Skills such as healthy communication; relaxation; and positive visualization are practiced right in the session. Fees: $100 for 1 hour; and $50 for every additional 30 minutes. Being responsive is a priority, so every effort is made to return your call or email within one business day.
Stacie Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034
I have years of experience working with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, personality disorders and trauma.
Do you feel stuck? Are you finding yourself repeating the same behaviors despite your best efforts to change? Are you trying to find purpose and peace while life circumstances continue to throw you curve balls? You are not alone in this! We all have times during our lives where we can use some extra support, a safe place to explore our feelings and process our personal worlds without the fear of rejection or judgment. You have the choice to make changes to live a healthier, happier life.
I have years of experience working with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, personality disorders and trauma.
Do you feel stuck? Are you finding yourself repeating the same behaviors despite your best efforts to change? Are you trying to find purpose and peace while life circumstances continue to throw you curve balls? You are not alone in this! We all have times during our lives where we can use some extra support, a safe place to explore our feelings and process our personal worlds without the fear of rejection or judgment. You have the choice to make changes to live a healthier, happier life.
Katie Hoag
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75231
I have special interests in working with those struggling with anxiety and depressive disorders, trauma and PTSD, dual diagnosis, relational and peer issues, personality disorders, substance use disorders, mood disorders, and life transitions.
My focus in the counseling process is to meet individuals in their current life stage and work collaboratively to address any issues. As no two people are the same, the aim of treatment is to personalize the process with treatment goals to address unique needs. One main goal is to provide everyone with the tools and support to manage struggles, feel more confident and capable, and continue to grow and explore their own lives. I am passionate about working with professionals, young adults, college students, and adolescents as they navigate changes in their world and development.
I have special interests in working with those struggling with anxiety and depressive disorders, trauma and PTSD, dual diagnosis, relational and peer issues, personality disorders, substance use disorders, mood disorders, and life transitions.
My focus in the counseling process is to meet individuals in their current life stage and work collaboratively to address any issues. As no two people are the same, the aim of treatment is to personalize the process with treatment goals to address unique needs. One main goal is to provide everyone with the tools and support to manage struggles, feel more confident and capable, and continue to grow and explore their own lives. I am passionate about working with professionals, young adults, college students, and adolescents as they navigate changes in their world and development.
Ashley Cook-Rovira, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
Grapevine, TX 76051
I specialize in trauma, shame-reduction, anxiety, addiction, and grief/loss work.
Are you feeling stuck by some life circumstance or feel as though you need help getting through a particularly troubling season of life? I help my clients work on their individual goals by meeting the client where they are at and working with them to find solutions to whatever issues are holding them back. I primarily work with clients struggling with trauma, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, dual-diagnoses (substance abuse in combination with other mental health diagnoses/presentations) for the past 12 years.
I specialize in trauma, shame-reduction, anxiety, addiction, and grief/loss work.
Are you feeling stuck by some life circumstance or feel as though you need help getting through a particularly troubling season of life? I help my clients work on their individual goals by meeting the client where they are at and working with them to find solutions to whatever issues are holding them back. I primarily work with clients struggling with trauma, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, dual-diagnoses (substance abuse in combination with other mental health diagnoses/presentations) for the past 12 years.
Jennifer Y Namkoong
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75034 (Online Only)
I am extensively trained in Trauma (Focused) Cognitive Behavioral (Physical/Sexual Abuse and other traumas); Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Eating and Substance Abuse Disorders), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and working with Culturally Diverse population.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) and a School Counselor with over 25+ years of experience and specializing in working with individuals, couples and families. We will work collaboratively together to help you find alternative and healthy ways to cope with disorders and symptoms such as anxiety (panic attacks), depression, grief/loss, and other mental health issues and addictions which can hinder success in personal relationships, schools/academics and/or employment settings. I am extensively trained in Trauma Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Therapies.
I am extensively trained in Trauma (Focused) Cognitive Behavioral (Physical/Sexual Abuse and other traumas); Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Eating and Substance Abuse Disorders), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and working with Culturally Diverse population.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) and a School Counselor with over 25+ years of experience and specializing in working with individuals, couples and families. We will work collaboratively together to help you find alternative and healthy ways to cope with disorders and symptoms such as anxiety (panic attacks), depression, grief/loss, and other mental health issues and addictions which can hinder success in personal relationships, schools/academics and/or employment settings. I am extensively trained in Trauma Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Therapies.
Laura Elizabeth Forrester
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206 (Online Only)
I work with adult clients & have clinical experience in the following areas: Addiction/Substance Use, Eating Disorders, PTSD/Trauma, Domestic Violence, Depression, Anxiety, Personality Disorders, Self-Esteem, Co-Occurring Disorders, Sexual/Physical Abuse, Mood Disorders, Crisis Intervention, Codependency, Women’s Issues, LGBTQIA+ Issues, Sex-Work.
Hello! I believe in the value of connection and authenticity. My therapeutic approach comes from a deep-seeded belief that all humans are worthy of love and compassion. I believe that each person needs different things and it is my hope to be available to you to offer guidance, support, empathy, compassion, and acceptance without judgement. I deeply value diversity and inclusivity, and connecting with my clients is of the utmost importance to me. My goal is to be present for my clients and for them to feel safe in sharing their stories with me.
I work with adult clients & have clinical experience in the following areas: Addiction/Substance Use, Eating Disorders, PTSD/Trauma, Domestic Violence, Depression, Anxiety, Personality Disorders, Self-Esteem, Co-Occurring Disorders, Sexual/Physical Abuse, Mood Disorders, Crisis Intervention, Codependency, Women’s Issues, LGBTQIA+ Issues, Sex-Work.
Hello! I believe in the value of connection and authenticity. My therapeutic approach comes from a deep-seeded belief that all humans are worthy of love and compassion. I believe that each person needs different things and it is my hope to be available to you to offer guidance, support, empathy, compassion, and acceptance without judgement. I deeply value diversity and inclusivity, and connecting with my clients is of the utmost importance to me. My goal is to be present for my clients and for them to feel safe in sharing their stories with me.
Bell Counseling Services, PLLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCDC, QMHP
Verified Verified
Lewisville, TX 75067
We recognize that simply wanting to get clean isn’t always enough when you’re trying to beat an addiction.
To empower our client's to live healthy lives; by providing prevention, intervention, and recovery services for juveniles and adults. Bell Counseling Services was established with the intent to provide the highest quality and most effective treatment available for those who suffer from substance use depression, grief, and other pressing issues. Our goal is to provide a high quality continuum of care for juveniles and adults. We provide services through a wide variety of funding sources, such as DSHS funds, various county funds, self pay, etc.
We recognize that simply wanting to get clean isn’t always enough when you’re trying to beat an addiction.
To empower our client's to live healthy lives; by providing prevention, intervention, and recovery services for juveniles and adults. Bell Counseling Services was established with the intent to provide the highest quality and most effective treatment available for those who suffer from substance use depression, grief, and other pressing issues. Our goal is to provide a high quality continuum of care for juveniles and adults. We provide services through a wide variety of funding sources, such as DSHS funds, various county funds, self pay, etc.
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.