Therapists in Rio Grande City, TX

Photo of Growing Generations of South Texas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rio Grande City, TX
Growing Generations of South Texas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, MS, LCDC, LBSW, CART
Verified Verified
Rio Grande City, TX 78582
Growing Generations of South Texas proudly works with clients that are struggling with mental health and substance abuse issues.
In a world of challenges and stressful events faced by individuals of all ages and their families, the support of a caring and involved counselor provides the opportunity to aim for self-fulfillment and personal growth. I believe that I can help you uncover the path to a meaningful life. I aim to support you in understanding and resolving challenging behavior patterns and perceptions to move in a new and positive direction in your life. Are you committed to your life goals? Are you hoping for a life of celebration and well-being? ....I am just a phone call away!
Growing Generations of South Texas proudly works with clients that are struggling with mental health and substance abuse issues.
In a world of challenges and stressful events faced by individuals of all ages and their families, the support of a caring and involved counselor provides the opportunity to aim for self-fulfillment and personal growth. I believe that I can help you uncover the path to a meaningful life. I aim to support you in understanding and resolving challenging behavior patterns and perceptions to move in a new and positive direction in your life. Are you committed to your life goals? Are you hoping for a life of celebration and well-being? ....I am just a phone call away!
(956) 758-1350 View (956) 758-1350
Photo of Brettny John, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rio Grande City, TX
Brettny John
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Rio Grande City, TX 78582
Hi, my name is Brettny (pronounced BRIT-nee). I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 6 years of clinical experience working with individuals with Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Coping Skills, Stress, and other mental health issues. My top modalities are Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Mindfulness-Based, Motivational Interviewing, Supportive, and Multicultural therapies. A little bit about myself: I enjoy gaming (PC, mobile, and board), delicious food (pizza, soup dumplings, crawfish, my mom’s chicken biryani), cooking, baking, cleaning, and snorkeling.
Hi, my name is Brettny (pronounced BRIT-nee). I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 6 years of clinical experience working with individuals with Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Coping Skills, Stress, and other mental health issues. My top modalities are Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Mindfulness-Based, Motivational Interviewing, Supportive, and Multicultural therapies. A little bit about myself: I enjoy gaming (PC, mobile, and board), delicious food (pizza, soup dumplings, crawfish, my mom’s chicken biryani), cooking, baking, cleaning, and snorkeling.
(346) 644-7047 View (346) 644-7047
Photo of Monarch Counseling PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rio Grande City, TX
Monarch Counseling PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd
Verified Verified
Rio Grande City, TX 78582
We are a mental health counseling agency located in Edinburg, TX. We offer in-person and telehealth counseling. Our mission is to make obtaining counseling convenient and accessible. We offer day-time, evening, and weekend hours.
We are a mental health counseling agency located in Edinburg, TX. We offer in-person and telehealth counseling. Our mission is to make obtaining counseling convenient and accessible. We offer day-time, evening, and weekend hours.
(956) 997-8975 View (956) 997-8975

Online Therapists

Photo of Elizabeth Garibay, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rio Grande City, TX
Elizabeth Garibay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Mission, TX 78573  (Online Only)
Elizabeth Garibay, is a bilingual licensed professional counselor and licensed chemical dependency counselor in the state of Texas . Elizabeth has experience working with individuals diagnosed with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, domestic violence, trauma, grief, and substance abuse disorders.
Elizabeth Garibay, is a bilingual licensed professional counselor and licensed chemical dependency counselor in the state of Texas . Elizabeth has experience working with individuals diagnosed with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, domestic violence, trauma, grief, and substance abuse disorders.
(956) 539-4208 View (956) 539-4208
Photo of The Therapy Room PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rio Grande City, TX
The Therapy Room PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laredo, TX 78041
I specialize in trauma, addiction, and maternal mental health.
Life in general is filled with demands and stressors, both at work and at home. Balancing all that is required is overwhelming. Yet the distress you feel today does not need to be your new normal, there is hope! I believe that each person is resilient, with the capacity to build connection and heal. I work with adults experiencing anxiety and depression, grief and loss, job stress and trauma. In our sessions, I will be an active, curious listener. I will approach our work together with warmth, humor and empathy, while integrating evidence-based practices to meet your needs. I am dedicated to creating a safe space for you.
I specialize in trauma, addiction, and maternal mental health.
Life in general is filled with demands and stressors, both at work and at home. Balancing all that is required is overwhelming. Yet the distress you feel today does not need to be your new normal, there is hope! I believe that each person is resilient, with the capacity to build connection and heal. I work with adults experiencing anxiety and depression, grief and loss, job stress and trauma. In our sessions, I will be an active, curious listener. I will approach our work together with warmth, humor and empathy, while integrating evidence-based practices to meet your needs. I am dedicated to creating a safe space for you.
(956) 405-1623 View (956) 405-1623
Photo of Sandra Morrow Supervised By Cameron Ortega Lpc-S, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Rio Grande City, TX
Sandra Morrow Supervised By Cameron Ortega Lpc-S
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, LPC-A, LCDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McAllen, TX 78504  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Sandra Morrow, and I'm here to be a supportive guide on your path to healing and growth. Over the past four years, I've had the privilege of counseling individuals under the expert supervision of Dr. Cameron Ortega. Through this experience, I've developed a profound understanding of the complexities surrounding addiction, depression, anxiety, and various relationship challenges. My passion is rooted in helping individuals navigate the journey of recovery. Whether you're battling addictions, grappling with overwhelming feelings of depression or anxiety, or facing complexities within your relationships.
Hello, I'm Sandra Morrow, and I'm here to be a supportive guide on your path to healing and growth. Over the past four years, I've had the privilege of counseling individuals under the expert supervision of Dr. Cameron Ortega. Through this experience, I've developed a profound understanding of the complexities surrounding addiction, depression, anxiety, and various relationship challenges. My passion is rooted in helping individuals navigate the journey of recovery. Whether you're battling addictions, grappling with overwhelming feelings of depression or anxiety, or facing complexities within your relationships.
(956) 539-3065 View (956) 539-3065
Photo of Vanessa Villarreal, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rio Grande City, TX
Vanessa Villarreal
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brownsville, TX 78520
Some of my experience includes 5 years in an outpatient setting, where I treated adults with mental illness, as well as 7 years in an inpatient setting with individuals who struggled with drug addiction, trauma, and co-occurring mental health diagnosis.
I use Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) to challenge and change maladaptive cognitive distortions and behaviors which have negatively impacted ones life, and provide tools to improve emotion regulation, and the development of personal coping strategies to effectively problem solve independently. I am also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), which is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences stemming from a variety of stressors, most notably: trauma, depression, anxiety, panic, disturbing memories, and PTSD.
Some of my experience includes 5 years in an outpatient setting, where I treated adults with mental illness, as well as 7 years in an inpatient setting with individuals who struggled with drug addiction, trauma, and co-occurring mental health diagnosis.
I use Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) to challenge and change maladaptive cognitive distortions and behaviors which have negatively impacted ones life, and provide tools to improve emotion regulation, and the development of personal coping strategies to effectively problem solve independently. I am also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), which is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences stemming from a variety of stressors, most notably: trauma, depression, anxiety, panic, disturbing memories, and PTSD.
(956) 435-7118 View (956) 435-7118
Photo of Josefina Irigoyen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rio Grande City, TX
Josefina Irigoyen
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, MS, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
McAllen, TX 78501
I have experience and have had success in working with patients suffering from different psychiatric diagnosis such as: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, behavioral issues, survivors of abuse, substance abuse, relationship issues.
My goal is to help you, or your loved one, overcome any psychological and/or emotional state you may be struggling with, by providing a safe, caring, and professional environment to promote positive change towards well-being.
I have experience and have had success in working with patients suffering from different psychiatric diagnosis such as: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, behavioral issues, survivors of abuse, substance abuse, relationship issues.
My goal is to help you, or your loved one, overcome any psychological and/or emotional state you may be struggling with, by providing a safe, caring, and professional environment to promote positive change towards well-being.
(512) 354-1012 View (512) 354-1012
Photo of Kristine R Gonzalez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rio Grande City, TX
Kristine R Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laredo, TX 78041  (Online Only)
I also work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, substance use issues, behavioral issues, adjustment issues, self-esteem, relationship issues, vocational/career issues, and/or every day life stressors.
Some of us are surviving through life, but are we really living? Life comes with many challenges and obstacles that can impact our mental health and overall well-being. While taking that initiative in seeking counseling can be overwhelming and scary, it is the first step to your journey of healing and that shows strength. Creating a safe space for you to express yourself is of upmost importance to me and I do so by demonstrating genuine empathy and establishing trust in the work I do with clients. I aim to facilitate growth and empowerment by taking a collaborative approach with clients as we go through the therapeutic process.
I also work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, substance use issues, behavioral issues, adjustment issues, self-esteem, relationship issues, vocational/career issues, and/or every day life stressors.
Some of us are surviving through life, but are we really living? Life comes with many challenges and obstacles that can impact our mental health and overall well-being. While taking that initiative in seeking counseling can be overwhelming and scary, it is the first step to your journey of healing and that shows strength. Creating a safe space for you to express yourself is of upmost importance to me and I do so by demonstrating genuine empathy and establishing trust in the work I do with clients. I aim to facilitate growth and empowerment by taking a collaborative approach with clients as we go through the therapeutic process.
(956) 758-1447 View (956) 758-1447
Photo of Stephanie T Villarreal, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Rio Grande City, TX
Stephanie T Villarreal
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A, LCDC
Verified Verified
Mercedes, TX 78570  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families treating addiction, self-esteem issues, anger, anxiety, depression, work-related stress, marital/premarital issues. I use an experiential model of therapy that encourages clients to examine their past experiences that have shaped their beliefs about the world. I believe the deepest changes in our life happen when we utilize social support and self-compassion. My ultimate goal is to give each client an opportunity to experience this in session.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families treating addiction, self-esteem issues, anger, anxiety, depression, work-related stress, marital/premarital issues. I use an experiential model of therapy that encourages clients to examine their past experiences that have shaped their beliefs about the world. I believe the deepest changes in our life happen when we utilize social support and self-compassion. My ultimate goal is to give each client an opportunity to experience this in session.
(956) 996-6216 View (956) 996-6216
Photo of Heather D. Alcala, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rio Grande City, TX
Heather D. Alcala
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, LCDC, SAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laguna Vista, TX 78578
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a combination of substance use treatment and individual and group mental health therapy experience that I have gained over the past 13 years. I have assisted individuals with addiction, depression, anxiety, anger, relationship issues, grief/loss, and self-love through this process. An important part of the work that I do is helping individuals experience relief from past trauma and abuse while learning coping skills to help them navigate difficult situations and experiences in their daily life. I am here to support you. Contact me for your initial consultation.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a combination of substance use treatment and individual and group mental health therapy experience that I have gained over the past 13 years. I have assisted individuals with addiction, depression, anxiety, anger, relationship issues, grief/loss, and self-love through this process. An important part of the work that I do is helping individuals experience relief from past trauma and abuse while learning coping skills to help them navigate difficult situations and experiences in their daily life. I am here to support you. Contact me for your initial consultation.
(956) 477-2720 View (956) 477-2720
Photo of April Gilchrist, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rio Grande City, TX
April Gilchrist
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78043
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 13 years of clinical experience, and I have worked with various individuals with Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Abuse/Violence, Trauma, PTSD, and Substance Use. I approach counseling from a cognitive-behavioral perspective in that patterns of thoughts and actions are explored to understand the client’s perspective better and develop solutions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, Reality therapy, EMDR, and DBT are used when applicable. I believe that trust and genuineness are the bedrock of the therapeutic relationship.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 13 years of clinical experience, and I have worked with various individuals with Anxiety, Depression, Domestic Abuse/Violence, Trauma, PTSD, and Substance Use. I approach counseling from a cognitive-behavioral perspective in that patterns of thoughts and actions are explored to understand the client’s perspective better and develop solutions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, Reality therapy, EMDR, and DBT are used when applicable. I believe that trust and genuineness are the bedrock of the therapeutic relationship.
(512) 722-7968 View (512) 722-7968
Photo of SGV Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rio Grande City, TX
SGV Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78041
I have dedicated my counseling career to working with individuals struggling with mental health and substance use disorders, and look forward to working with you as you strive to become the best version of yourself.
At SGV Counseling, PLLC you will be working with a psychotherapist with over 15 years experience in the helping profession who has worked wholeheartedly with individuals struggling with co-occurring disorders. Having worked in a variety of settings, including outpatient treatment facilities (clinical director/therapist), local Colonias, as well as for the local mental health authority in both individual and group settings, I come to you with vast experience, dedication, and passion.
I have dedicated my counseling career to working with individuals struggling with mental health and substance use disorders, and look forward to working with you as you strive to become the best version of yourself.
At SGV Counseling, PLLC you will be working with a psychotherapist with over 15 years experience in the helping profession who has worked wholeheartedly with individuals struggling with co-occurring disorders. Having worked in a variety of settings, including outpatient treatment facilities (clinical director/therapist), local Colonias, as well as for the local mental health authority in both individual and group settings, I come to you with vast experience, dedication, and passion.
(956) 304-6616 View (956) 304-6616
Photo of Alma Cristina Bertani, LPC Intern in Rio Grande City, TX
Alma Cristina Bertani
LPC Intern, MA, LPC-A, LCDC
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78045  (Online Only)
Whether you are struggling to deal with regulating emotions, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, substance abuse, reaching personal goals, and/or trauma, know that I am here to help you every step of the way.
In my counseling vocation, I am driven and passionate about helping others to achieve their optimal mental health and wellness. In my over six years of experience, I am humbled to have had the opportunity to help adolescents and adults through various hardships such as dual diagnosis (adolescent/adult clients) struggling with a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder simultaneously. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPC-A) under the supervision of Dr. Seth Sampson at Evolucíon Counseling. I am also a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC).
Whether you are struggling to deal with regulating emotions, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, substance abuse, reaching personal goals, and/or trauma, know that I am here to help you every step of the way.
In my counseling vocation, I am driven and passionate about helping others to achieve their optimal mental health and wellness. In my over six years of experience, I am humbled to have had the opportunity to help adolescents and adults through various hardships such as dual diagnosis (adolescent/adult clients) struggling with a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder simultaneously. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPC-A) under the supervision of Dr. Seth Sampson at Evolucíon Counseling. I am also a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC).
View
Photo of Araceli Coward-Ramirez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rio Grande City, TX
Araceli Coward-Ramirez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
McAllen, TX 78504
My specialties include self-esteem, resolving relationship issues, setting boundaries, coping with anxiety, coping with depression, addiction management and anger management.
I help people when anxiety takes over in the worst moments. If you struggle with anxiety, self-esteem, addictions, domestic violence, dual diagnosis, relationship issues or depression consider your therapy with me. I approach therapy from different perspectives depending on the needs of each individual with the goal of helping you connect to your own thoughts, feelings and actions.
My specialties include self-esteem, resolving relationship issues, setting boundaries, coping with anxiety, coping with depression, addiction management and anger management.
I help people when anxiety takes over in the worst moments. If you struggle with anxiety, self-esteem, addictions, domestic violence, dual diagnosis, relationship issues or depression consider your therapy with me. I approach therapy from different perspectives depending on the needs of each individual with the goal of helping you connect to your own thoughts, feelings and actions.
(956) 948-3742 View (956) 948-3742
Photo of Lourdes Ornelas: EMDR & Neurofeedback Intensives, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rio Grande City, TX
Lourdes Ornelas: EMDR & Neurofeedback Intensives
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Laredo, TX 78041
If curiosity brought you here, then dare 2B curious about yourself! Sometimes we may feel like life seems to beat us down and feel hopeless and just want to give up. Have you noticed feeling irritable, always on edge, easily startle, and dealing with conflict at work might be stressful. Maybe, you want to change the way you interact with family, forgive, or just figure out practical boundaries. Perhaps, what brought you here is the way you think about and treat yourself. Replaying unpleasant incidents over and over when you’re trying to fall asleep, and wishing things were different, "I am worthless. If only I was good enough".
If curiosity brought you here, then dare 2B curious about yourself! Sometimes we may feel like life seems to beat us down and feel hopeless and just want to give up. Have you noticed feeling irritable, always on edge, easily startle, and dealing with conflict at work might be stressful. Maybe, you want to change the way you interact with family, forgive, or just figure out practical boundaries. Perhaps, what brought you here is the way you think about and treat yourself. Replaying unpleasant incidents over and over when you’re trying to fall asleep, and wishing things were different, "I am worthless. If only I was good enough".
(956) 436-5196 View (956) 436-5196
Photo of Clarissa Garza, Counselor in Rio Grande City, TX
Clarissa Garza
Counselor, MA, LPC-A, LMHC-A
Verified Verified
Mission, TX 78572  (Online Only)
Former Roman emperor, Marcus Aurelius, once wrote, “The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way.” As a mental health therapist associate from South Texas, I realize that therapy goes beyond the diagnosis realm and into a wider space of understanding, attunement, and healing. Renowned physician, Gabor Mate asserted that healing does not rely on getting rid of the pain but in increasing one’s capacity to be resilient to it. I honor you as a human, with many parts and crevices that showcase your authentic self. My approach is geared toward helping you feel seen, heard, and empowered; Be Here Now.
Former Roman emperor, Marcus Aurelius, once wrote, “The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way.” As a mental health therapist associate from South Texas, I realize that therapy goes beyond the diagnosis realm and into a wider space of understanding, attunement, and healing. Renowned physician, Gabor Mate asserted that healing does not rely on getting rid of the pain but in increasing one’s capacity to be resilient to it. I honor you as a human, with many parts and crevices that showcase your authentic self. My approach is geared toward helping you feel seen, heard, and empowered; Be Here Now.
(206) 502-4340 View (206) 502-4340
Photo of Michelle L Ramirez-Winget, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rio Grande City, TX
Michelle L Ramirez-Winget
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S , LCDC
Verified Verified
Brownsville, TX 78520  (Online Only)
I am a therapist. Who ALSO has a therapist and has been through the process of finding/seeing therapists. I get it. It isn't easy but it is worth it. My view of counseling is simple, and based upon three core principles: authenticity, (being true to oneself), honesty, and growth. I seek to provide a nonjudgmental ear, and a supportive, safe presence. My goal is for you to feel heard as well as empowered by knowledge and skills to recognize your worth and embody change. I prefer working with adult clients who are ready and willing to put in work toward change and self-improvement.
I am a therapist. Who ALSO has a therapist and has been through the process of finding/seeing therapists. I get it. It isn't easy but it is worth it. My view of counseling is simple, and based upon three core principles: authenticity, (being true to oneself), honesty, and growth. I seek to provide a nonjudgmental ear, and a supportive, safe presence. My goal is for you to feel heard as well as empowered by knowledge and skills to recognize your worth and embody change. I prefer working with adult clients who are ready and willing to put in work toward change and self-improvement.
(254) 329-2529 View (254) 329-2529
Photo of Lifehouse Professional Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rio Grande City, TX
Lifehouse Professional Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CTRS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laredo, TX 78041
Lifehouse team is honored to walk along side you on your journey to self-discovery and healing. Our passion, as therapists, is to partner with you as you are working through your struggles, heal from your painful experiences, and to grow stronger in the process. Therefore, we truly believe in utilizing techniques that apply to the individual as a whole. Our compassionate clinical staff make sure to prioritize the needs and comfort of our patients while continuously striving to achieve the patients mental health and recovery goals.
Lifehouse team is honored to walk along side you on your journey to self-discovery and healing. Our passion, as therapists, is to partner with you as you are working through your struggles, heal from your painful experiences, and to grow stronger in the process. Therefore, we truly believe in utilizing techniques that apply to the individual as a whole. Our compassionate clinical staff make sure to prioritize the needs and comfort of our patients while continuously striving to achieve the patients mental health and recovery goals.
(956) 253-2427 View (956) 253-2427
Photo of Rosemary Lopez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rio Grande City, TX
Rosemary Lopez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
Weslaco, TX 78596
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. And a journey towards a healthier, happier life begins with a single conversation. Let's take that first step together. Everyone deserves to live a life that's fulfilling and meaningful, and I am passionate about helping individuals and families find their way back to happier, healthier lives.
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. And a journey towards a healthier, happier life begins with a single conversation. Let's take that first step together. Everyone deserves to live a life that's fulfilling and meaningful, and I am passionate about helping individuals and families find their way back to happier, healthier lives.
(956) 948-3138 View (956) 948-3138

See more therapy options for Rio Grande City


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.