Photo of Derek Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Derek Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MATS, LCDC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075
Waitlist for new clients
Specializing in Substance Addictions, Process Addictions, Trauma, Grief, Life Transitions, Relationship Conflicts, Divorce, Separation, Anxiety, and Depression.
I plan to work and incorporate holistic and integrative care with individuals, couples, and families by assessing and addressing physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects. I am a genuine counselor meeting clients where they are and moving them forward towards growth and healing. I believe there is strength in human connections and encourage others towards the goals set in counseling.
Specializing in Substance Addictions, Process Addictions, Trauma, Grief, Life Transitions, Relationship Conflicts, Divorce, Separation, Anxiety, and Depression.
I plan to work and incorporate holistic and integrative care with individuals, couples, and families by assessing and addressing physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects. I am a genuine counselor meeting clients where they are and moving them forward towards growth and healing. I believe there is strength in human connections and encourage others towards the goals set in counseling.
(214) 239-2833 View (214) 239-2833
Photo of Sean Blackburn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Sean Blackburn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75074
I am a licensed professional counselor in private practice. I am currently in network with Aetna, Cigna, and United Healthcare; I also offer private pay sessions. I specialize in individual therapy with adults dealing with anxiety, depression, and addiction. I work from a psychodynamic perspective in therapy which means that I am interested in unconscious motivations that could be contributing to dissatisfaction in life. I take great interest in dreams and recurring fantasies and see them as useful in therapy if the client ever wants to process them.
I am a licensed professional counselor in private practice. I am currently in network with Aetna, Cigna, and United Healthcare; I also offer private pay sessions. I specialize in individual therapy with adults dealing with anxiety, depression, and addiction. I work from a psychodynamic perspective in therapy which means that I am interested in unconscious motivations that could be contributing to dissatisfaction in life. I take great interest in dreams and recurring fantasies and see them as useful in therapy if the client ever wants to process them.
(972) 992-1893 View (972) 992-1893
Photo of Layla Z. Scott, Marriage & Family Therapist in Plano, TX
Layla Z. Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S, CFLE
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
My specialties include: complex relational issues, trauma, abuse in family of origin, domestic violence, addiction recovery, and working with cultural minorities.
I am passionate about helping people and relationships heal, grow, and transform. I believe we develop and participate in patterns of behavior with our loved ones, and it takes intentional effort to get unstuck. I provide a safe atmosphere for self-examination and personal accountability. My goal is to help restore calm in relationships disrupted by the stress of chronic, unresolved conflicts and emotional disconnection. I enjoy helping clients gain insight, tolerate and reduce anxiety, and create intimacy with their partners. I am trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) and EMDR which focus on personal and relational safety.
My specialties include: complex relational issues, trauma, abuse in family of origin, domestic violence, addiction recovery, and working with cultural minorities.
I am passionate about helping people and relationships heal, grow, and transform. I believe we develop and participate in patterns of behavior with our loved ones, and it takes intentional effort to get unstuck. I provide a safe atmosphere for self-examination and personal accountability. My goal is to help restore calm in relationships disrupted by the stress of chronic, unresolved conflicts and emotional disconnection. I enjoy helping clients gain insight, tolerate and reduce anxiety, and create intimacy with their partners. I am trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) and EMDR which focus on personal and relational safety.
(214) 307-6197 View (214) 307-6197
Photo of Rick David Bingham, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Plano, TX
Rick David Bingham
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, BA , AADC, LCDC, CAS
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75094
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 Eu'Lina Smith Therapeutic Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Eu'Lina Smith Therapeutic Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
I'm passionate about serving the dually diagnosed population; those with a mental health diagnosis who are also struggling with addiction as well as ADHD and relationship issues.
I Eu’Lina Smith M.Ed. M.S. LPC, LCDC, am a proud graduate of Texas Tech University where I graduated with dual Bachelors' degrees in Dance and Community, Family, and Addiction Services. I also attended Texas Tech Graduate School where I earned a Masters in both Counselor Education and Interdisciplinary Studies with concentration in Counseling, Educational Psychology, and Addictions. I graduated with honors and was a member of Chi Sigma Iota Honors Society while in graduate school at Texas Tech. My approach to counseling combines Solution Focused, Reality, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Gestalt theories.
I'm passionate about serving the dually diagnosed population; those with a mental health diagnosis who are also struggling with addiction as well as ADHD and relationship issues.
I Eu’Lina Smith M.Ed. M.S. LPC, LCDC, am a proud graduate of Texas Tech University where I graduated with dual Bachelors' degrees in Dance and Community, Family, and Addiction Services. I also attended Texas Tech Graduate School where I earned a Masters in both Counselor Education and Interdisciplinary Studies with concentration in Counseling, Educational Psychology, and Addictions. I graduated with honors and was a member of Chi Sigma Iota Honors Society while in graduate school at Texas Tech. My approach to counseling combines Solution Focused, Reality, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Gestalt theories.
(214) 247-7886 View (214) 247-7886
Photo of James Coley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
James Coley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075
My clients are adults of all ages working through a wide range of issues, such as depression, anxiety, addiction, grief, spiritual disconnection, relationship difficulties, and more. I have a particular interest and additional experience with the LGBTQ population, young adults working to establish their identities, those working through painful grief journeys, and those who are exploring their faith or spirituality. My goal is always to create a space free from judgment where you can explore who you are, who you want to be, and how you can get there!
My clients are adults of all ages working through a wide range of issues, such as depression, anxiety, addiction, grief, spiritual disconnection, relationship difficulties, and more. I have a particular interest and additional experience with the LGBTQ population, young adults working to establish their identities, those working through painful grief journeys, and those who are exploring their faith or spirituality. My goal is always to create a space free from judgment where you can explore who you are, who you want to be, and how you can get there!
(972) 433-5482 View (972) 433-5482
Photo of Shannon Causey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Shannon Causey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75074
Grappling with depression, stuck in addiction, or home when you'd rather be independent? Living with the echoes of an unhappy or abusive childhood? Noticing you feel anxious and tired on a daily basis and can't figure out why, or can't seem to connect with others the way you'd like? Maybe you're not even sure what to call what you feel, but you'd really like to change it and find a way to feel like yourself again. None of these issues are pleasant, but we can work on them together. As a counselor working with complex combinations of addictions and mental health issues, I offer genuine caring and acceptance as you learn and heal.
Grappling with depression, stuck in addiction, or home when you'd rather be independent? Living with the echoes of an unhappy or abusive childhood? Noticing you feel anxious and tired on a daily basis and can't figure out why, or can't seem to connect with others the way you'd like? Maybe you're not even sure what to call what you feel, but you'd really like to change it and find a way to feel like yourself again. None of these issues are pleasant, but we can work on them together. As a counselor working with complex combinations of addictions and mental health issues, I offer genuine caring and acceptance as you learn and heal.
(214) 462-3392 View (214) 462-3392
Photo of Jonathan Pruitt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Jonathan Pruitt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, NCC, EMDR, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
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 Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75074
Therapy areas include: Anxiety, Coping Skills, Stress, Depression, Marital Conflict, Grief/Loss, Eating Disorders, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, Dissociation, Family Conflict, Interpersonal Issues, Trauma, Addiction, Child and Teen Counseling, Adult counseling, Couples counseling and so much more.
As you take this step towards achieving wellness, we are honored to walk with you on your personal journey while providing a safe place, healing, hope, restoration, and quality of care. Specifically, Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas is dedicated to providing quality professional care by specializing in prevention, treatment and diagnosis of emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues. CAACOT provides evidence-based counseling and psychiatric services to children, adolescents, adults and couples.
Therapy areas include: Anxiety, Coping Skills, Stress, Depression, Marital Conflict, Grief/Loss, Eating Disorders, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, Dissociation, Family Conflict, Interpersonal Issues, Trauma, Addiction, Child and Teen Counseling, Adult counseling, Couples counseling and so much more.
As you take this step towards achieving wellness, we are honored to walk with you on your personal journey while providing a safe place, healing, hope, restoration, and quality of care. Specifically, Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas is dedicated to providing quality professional care by specializing in prevention, treatment and diagnosis of emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues. CAACOT provides evidence-based counseling and psychiatric services to children, adolescents, adults and couples.
(817) 813-6789 View (817) 813-6789
Photo of Forrest J Macfarlane, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Forrest J Macfarlane
Licensed Professional Counselor, BS, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075
Whether it is relationship problems, depression, anxiety, or changes in unhealthy behaviors such as addiction, I help clients find balance and regain control in their life. My approach utilizes traditional cognitive behavioral methods to achieve balance in mind, body and spirit, and encourages them to engage in a healthy supportive community. It is my belief that this whole person approach is a key factor in achieving real and sustainable change and relief from emotional distress. If you’re ready to make a change, I am ready to work with you.
Whether it is relationship problems, depression, anxiety, or changes in unhealthy behaviors such as addiction, I help clients find balance and regain control in their life. My approach utilizes traditional cognitive behavioral methods to achieve balance in mind, body and spirit, and encourages them to engage in a healthy supportive community. It is my belief that this whole person approach is a key factor in achieving real and sustainable change and relief from emotional distress. If you’re ready to make a change, I am ready to work with you.
(214) 937-9819 View (214) 937-9819
Photo of Ken McGill, Marriage & Family Therapist in Plano, TX
Ken McGill
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Dr. Ken McGill has been counseling for 25 years. Dr. McGill has a BA in Religion, and his Masters in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University, Los Angeles. Dr. McGill has his Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Azusa Pacific University, and is a Licensed MFT in Texas and California. Dr. McGill holds a certification in Alcohol and Drug Studies from UCLA, and is a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist. Dr. McGill directed a residential treatment program for people challenged with sexual compulsivity, relationship addiction and sexual trauma. Dr. McGill also respectfully supports the integration of spirituality into the clinical treatment process.
Dr. Ken McGill has been counseling for 25 years. Dr. McGill has a BA in Religion, and his Masters in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University, Los Angeles. Dr. McGill has his Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Azusa Pacific University, and is a Licensed MFT in Texas and California. Dr. McGill holds a certification in Alcohol and Drug Studies from UCLA, and is a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist. Dr. McGill directed a residential treatment program for people challenged with sexual compulsivity, relationship addiction and sexual trauma. Dr. McGill also respectfully supports the integration of spirituality into the clinical treatment process.
(972) 290-1067 View (972) 290-1067
Photo of George Brian Milton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
George Brian Milton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
I specialize in treating adolescents and adults with anger management, anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, family therapy, and trauma. With my experience working with ADHD, mood disorders, personality disorders, behavioral issues, and parenting/co-parenting-related concerns, I strive to provide effective support. Creating a safe and comfortable environment where you can be open and honest is my top priority. I believe in teaching healthy coping strategies and communication skills that you can utilize during stressful times.
I specialize in treating adolescents and adults with anger management, anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, family therapy, and trauma. With my experience working with ADHD, mood disorders, personality disorders, behavioral issues, and parenting/co-parenting-related concerns, I strive to provide effective support. Creating a safe and comfortable environment where you can be open and honest is my top priority. I believe in teaching healthy coping strategies and communication skills that you can utilize during stressful times.
(512) 768-2731 View (512) 768-2731
Photo of Derek Atkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Derek Atkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
Derek has worked in the field of counseling for over 15 years helping clients work through concerns including depression, anxiety, and even self image. He has worked with military personnel, law enforcement, and the foster care system. Derek has significant experience in working with individuals and families struggling with addiction and utilizes a safe and warm environment to engage his clients in developing healthy strategies to work through their recovery and engage families in adapting to changes in the family dynamic.
Derek has worked in the field of counseling for over 15 years helping clients work through concerns including depression, anxiety, and even self image. He has worked with military personnel, law enforcement, and the foster care system. Derek has significant experience in working with individuals and families struggling with addiction and utilizes a safe and warm environment to engage his clients in developing healthy strategies to work through their recovery and engage families in adapting to changes in the family dynamic.
(972) 945-3177 View (972) 945-3177
Photo of Kara Bradford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plano, TX
Kara Bradford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, mood disorders, self-esteem, and relationship counseling. With a profound understanding of addiction, I support those facing substance abuse and other compulsive behaviors. My compassionate approach empowers individuals to tackle unhealthy relationships with food and alcohol, binge eating, gambling, and other addictive patterns, fostering a path toward healing and recovery. I can help you attain and maintain sobriety while also helping you understand the behaviors leading to addiction.
I specialize in treating adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, mood disorders, self-esteem, and relationship counseling. With a profound understanding of addiction, I support those facing substance abuse and other compulsive behaviors. My compassionate approach empowers individuals to tackle unhealthy relationships with food and alcohol, binge eating, gambling, and other addictive patterns, fostering a path toward healing and recovery. I can help you attain and maintain sobriety while also helping you understand the behaviors leading to addiction.
(512) 768-2731 View (512) 768-2731
Photo of Hemm Counseling PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Hemm Counseling PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC -S, LCDC, NCC, Virtual
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor with over 30 years' experience. I have worked in residential, outpatient and private practice. The first half of my career I worked with adolescents and their families and later went on to work primarily with adults.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor with over 30 years' experience. I have worked in residential, outpatient and private practice. The first half of my career I worked with adolescents and their families and later went on to work primarily with adults.
(469) 309-7195 View (469) 309-7195
Photo of Travis Ray Hebert, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Travis Ray Hebert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75023
I have 6+ years experience working with 18-39 year old men and their families recovering from alcohol and drug addiction as well as sex and pornography addictions.
I believe we were made to be known, to connect and to be free. Each of us has a unique story we are living out and along the way experience circumstances and degrees of difficulty that leave us feeling burnt out, alone and/or confused. I enjoy working with individuals, families and couples from all walks of life that are open to learning and growing together with me. I am passionate about creating a safe place for you to tell your story and explore what's getting in the way of you living life to the fullest.
I have 6+ years experience working with 18-39 year old men and their families recovering from alcohol and drug addiction as well as sex and pornography addictions.
I believe we were made to be known, to connect and to be free. Each of us has a unique story we are living out and along the way experience circumstances and degrees of difficulty that leave us feeling burnt out, alone and/or confused. I enjoy working with individuals, families and couples from all walks of life that are open to learning and growing together with me. I am passionate about creating a safe place for you to tell your story and explore what's getting in the way of you living life to the fullest.
(409) 571-1731 View (409) 571-1731
Photo of Kevin Gilliland, Psychologist in Plano, TX
Kevin Gilliland
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75025
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 30 years of experience in helping clients and their families solve problems, psychological problems. I am passionate about working with individuals who have problems with the way they use alcohol or drugs as well as those that have developed a drinking or drug problem (addiction). In addition, a significant amount of my work is with individuals that struggle with excess worry and anxiety, from college students to older adults.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 30 years of experience in helping clients and their families solve problems, psychological problems. I am passionate about working with individuals who have problems with the way they use alcohol or drugs as well as those that have developed a drinking or drug problem (addiction). In addition, a significant amount of my work is with individuals that struggle with excess worry and anxiety, from college students to older adults.
(469) 208-5965 View (469) 208-5965
Photo of Carrie Beaird, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
Carrie Beaird
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
I work with issues like substance abuse, recovery and the 12 steps, marriage and family, divorce, depression, anxiety, pre-marital counseling and spiritual issues.
The purpose of therapy is to grow as a person and through the growth process affect changes in one’s life and relationships. As a therapist, I see my role as short term in nature, walking with people through sometimes very difficult chapters in their lives. Individual results in therapy vary, for in the final analysis the client decides their level of commitment to change and personal growth. However, the decision to begin the process of therapy is a courageous commitment to take the first step on the journey of self-discovery and growth.
I work with issues like substance abuse, recovery and the 12 steps, marriage and family, divorce, depression, anxiety, pre-marital counseling and spiritual issues.
The purpose of therapy is to grow as a person and through the growth process affect changes in one’s life and relationships. As a therapist, I see my role as short term in nature, walking with people through sometimes very difficult chapters in their lives. Individual results in therapy vary, for in the final analysis the client decides their level of commitment to change and personal growth. However, the decision to begin the process of therapy is a courageous commitment to take the first step on the journey of self-discovery and growth.
(972) 559-0165 View (972) 559-0165
Photo of David H Pickup, Marriage & Family Therapist in Plano, TX
David H Pickup
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I specialize in: Addictions, Gender dysphoria/sexuality and related issues, EMDR, marriage and family therapy, depression and anxiety issues, spiritual/faith issues, with children, adolescents and adults. Whatever you do...contact me first for the latest treatment for addictions and the above. Feeling State work (EMDR) is the latest treatment for the issues above, and it is fast becoming the quickest method to address addiction issues. To discover and live from the authentic self is paramount to my work. A therapeutic atmosphere not only includes expertise, but includes a trusting, non-judgmental experience in which issues are compassionately explored.
I specialize in: Addictions, Gender dysphoria/sexuality and related issues, EMDR, marriage and family therapy, depression and anxiety issues, spiritual/faith issues, with children, adolescents and adults. Whatever you do...contact me first for the latest treatment for addictions and the above. Feeling State work (EMDR) is the latest treatment for the issues above, and it is fast becoming the quickest method to address addiction issues. To discover and live from the authentic self is paramount to my work. A therapeutic atmosphere not only includes expertise, but includes a trusting, non-judgmental experience in which issues are compassionately explored.
(888) 288-2071 View (888) 288-2071
Photo of I.M. Resilient Counseling & Consulting, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plano, TX
I.M. Resilient Counseling & Consulting, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Texas. I have 5 years experience serving children, adolescents, families, and veterans through individual or group therapy who are dealing with issues that affect their mental health and well-being. More specifically, addressing a variety of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, substance abuse, and personality disorders. My counseling philosophy includes Rational Emotive Behavior and Choice Reality Therapy, placing emphasis on reshaping core beliefs in those individuals experiencing a variety of mental health conditions,
I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Texas. I have 5 years experience serving children, adolescents, families, and veterans through individual or group therapy who are dealing with issues that affect their mental health and well-being. More specifically, addressing a variety of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, substance abuse, and personality disorders. My counseling philosophy includes Rational Emotive Behavior and Choice Reality Therapy, placing emphasis on reshaping core beliefs in those individuals experiencing a variety of mental health conditions,
(469) 812-5498 View (469) 812-5498
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.