Photo of Gino Wolfe—Anxiety•depression•grief—Kids Adults, LMFTA, SUDP, MHP, CMHS, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Gino Wolfe—Anxiety•depression•grief—Kids Adults
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, SUDP, MHP, CMHS
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
You can build sustained recovery from substance abuse and co-occurring disorders and can heal from grief.
Do you ever feel like you’re alone in life as if the world is resting on your shoulders? Do you feel the burden of caring for loved ones while feeling like no one is there to take care of you? Do you feel disconnected from relationships in your life? Are you in the military and struggling with feelings of anxiety or stress about your deployment? Are you having trouble leaving your experiences from the military behind or experiencing PTSD? Is grief from losing a loved one impacting your relationships and your ability to manage the day-to-day? Through expert therapy, you can learn to move beyond your pain and be happier. Reach out now
You can build sustained recovery from substance abuse and co-occurring disorders and can heal from grief.
Do you ever feel like you’re alone in life as if the world is resting on your shoulders? Do you feel the burden of caring for loved ones while feeling like no one is there to take care of you? Do you feel disconnected from relationships in your life? Are you in the military and struggling with feelings of anxiety or stress about your deployment? Are you having trouble leaving your experiences from the military behind or experiencing PTSD? Is grief from losing a loved one impacting your relationships and your ability to manage the day-to-day? Through expert therapy, you can learn to move beyond your pain and be happier. Reach out now
(360) 219-9635 View (360) 219-9635
Photo of Megan Haase, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor
Megan Haase
Counselor, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221  (Online Only)
Feeling stuck in the same frustrating patterns with your partner? If your conversations keep ending in the same arguments, leaving you feeling unheard and disconnected, you're not alone. Conflict is normal, but when it’s not handled well, it can erode the trust and closeness in your relationship. I specialize in helping couples move from conflict to connection by teaching proven techniques that foster deeper understanding and compassion. A healthy relationship is more than just an emotional investment—it boosts your overall well-being, strengthens your immune system, and even extends your lifespan.
Feeling stuck in the same frustrating patterns with your partner? If your conversations keep ending in the same arguments, leaving you feeling unheard and disconnected, you're not alone. Conflict is normal, but when it’s not handled well, it can erode the trust and closeness in your relationship. I specialize in helping couples move from conflict to connection by teaching proven techniques that foster deeper understanding and compassion. A healthy relationship is more than just an emotional investment—it boosts your overall well-being, strengthens your immune system, and even extends your lifespan.
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Photo of Amy Heidecker, MA, LCPC, LMHC, Counselor
Amy Heidecker
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Anacortes, WA 98221
Now accepting online clients in WA & MT. This journey called life is full of ups & downs, joy & pain, being known and feeling alone. This is most prominent during transition times like adolescence, graduating, getting married or divorced, or losing part of your identity through a change in roles or job. In my practice I honor the whole person and treat mind, body, & spirit, as well as the connections with others in relationships. You are welcome & encouraged to bring your whole story and whole self to the therapy process.
Now accepting online clients in WA & MT. This journey called life is full of ups & downs, joy & pain, being known and feeling alone. This is most prominent during transition times like adolescence, graduating, getting married or divorced, or losing part of your identity through a change in roles or job. In my practice I honor the whole person and treat mind, body, & spirit, as well as the connections with others in relationships. You are welcome & encouraged to bring your whole story and whole self to the therapy process.
(406) 612-1414 View (406) 612-1414
Photo of Todd Webb, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Todd Webb
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
Not accepting new clients
During my career, I've worked with many diverse individuals, couples, and families to find healing and restoration from a variety of complicated and often very messy problems. I offer a unique measure of acceptance, support, and assistance for my clients. Besides my experience and training, I've personally struggled with difficult life issues myself. I know healing is possible and I am committed to helping you find it. If you choose to work with me, together we'll discover the root causes of your predicament and strive toward making changes that will ultimately lead to greater happiness and satisfaction.
During my career, I've worked with many diverse individuals, couples, and families to find healing and restoration from a variety of complicated and often very messy problems. I offer a unique measure of acceptance, support, and assistance for my clients. Besides my experience and training, I've personally struggled with difficult life issues myself. I know healing is possible and I am committed to helping you find it. If you choose to work with me, together we'll discover the root causes of your predicament and strive toward making changes that will ultimately lead to greater happiness and satisfaction.
(360) 301-7976 View (360) 301-7976

Online Therapists

Photo of Ian Lawson, MD, CSAT, LMHCA, Counselor
Ian Lawson
Counselor, MD, CSAT, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Issaquah, WA 98027
I provide care to men struggling with trauma, family of origin issues, substance use disorder, other addictions, compulsive sexual behavior, pornography. I have a special interest in helping professionals in their personal and professional struggles with addictions, burnout, imposter syndrome and depersonalization.
I provide care to men struggling with trauma, family of origin issues, substance use disorder, other addictions, compulsive sexual behavior, pornography. I have a special interest in helping professionals in their personal and professional struggles with addictions, burnout, imposter syndrome and depersonalization.
(425) 475-1851 View (425) 475-1851
Photo of Benjamin J Strader, PsyD, Psychologist
Benjamin J Strader
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Dupont, WA 98327
Whether your situation is due to biology, injury, addiction, violence, trauma, family stress or anything else, know that it takes courage to move towards change.
Everyday we face unwanted thoughts, moods, emotions, memories, and body sensations, which can interfere with our school, career, relationships, and our mental and emotional well being. If this sounds like you or your loved one, know that you are not alone and that change is possible. My greatest professional satisfaction comes from witnessing the process of growth and I am here to walk with you or your loved one on that journey of change. I have a passion for the collaborative process and supporting those who want to understand themselves better and value the process of growth.
Whether your situation is due to biology, injury, addiction, violence, trauma, family stress or anything else, know that it takes courage to move towards change.
Everyday we face unwanted thoughts, moods, emotions, memories, and body sensations, which can interfere with our school, career, relationships, and our mental and emotional well being. If this sounds like you or your loved one, know that you are not alone and that change is possible. My greatest professional satisfaction comes from witnessing the process of growth and I am here to walk with you or your loved one on that journey of change. I have a passion for the collaborative process and supporting those who want to understand themselves better and value the process of growth.
(253) 544-5644 View (253) 544-5644
Photo of Erin Daniels - Emerald Behavioral Health, PLLC, MSW, MA, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emerald Behavioral Health, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MA, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Bremerton, WA 98312
I have extensive knowledge working with patients with psychosis, substance use, and at high risk of suicide. Focusing on harm reduction, healthy coping skills, and recovery to live the best possible life. With my vast knowledge of the mental health system, I use various modalities toward treatment and don't believe a one size fit all in regard to interventions. I focus on a holistic approach to treatment as you are the expert in your own life. I am here to assist, listen and guide you towards your goals and dreams.
I have extensive knowledge working with patients with psychosis, substance use, and at high risk of suicide. Focusing on harm reduction, healthy coping skills, and recovery to live the best possible life. With my vast knowledge of the mental health system, I use various modalities toward treatment and don't believe a one size fit all in regard to interventions. I focus on a holistic approach to treatment as you are the expert in your own life. I am here to assist, listen and guide you towards your goals and dreams.
(360) 515-3234 x1 View (360) 515-3234 x1
Photo of David P Eekhoff, LMFT, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist
David P Eekhoff
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MDiv
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368  (Online Only)
Treatment specialization includes: -Depression and Anxiety -Panic Attacks and Phobia -Sexual and Relationship Problems -Medical and Health concerns -Grief and Loss -Work and Career issues -Stress Management - Addiction & Recovery -Parenting and Family Issues -Conflict Resolution.
I bring over 20 years of experience to the Presbyterian Counseling Center. I offer a unique opportunity for people who come to me for counseling to become aware of issues about their relationships with others, and also develop a deeper awareness and appreciation of their world and their place in it...a spiritual search. When spirituality and hope meet, many say they experience a transformative change. No matter where you are in your journey, I offer you an experience in which you will be encouraged to take small steps that can make a huge difference. I welcome you to this journey...
Treatment specialization includes: -Depression and Anxiety -Panic Attacks and Phobia -Sexual and Relationship Problems -Medical and Health concerns -Grief and Loss -Work and Career issues -Stress Management - Addiction & Recovery -Parenting and Family Issues -Conflict Resolution.
I bring over 20 years of experience to the Presbyterian Counseling Center. I offer a unique opportunity for people who come to me for counseling to become aware of issues about their relationships with others, and also develop a deeper awareness and appreciation of their world and their place in it...a spiritual search. When spirituality and hope meet, many say they experience a transformative change. No matter where you are in your journey, I offer you an experience in which you will be encouraged to take small steps that can make a huge difference. I welcome you to this journey...
(360) 328-7354 View (360) 328-7354
Photo of Joseph Gottfried, MA, LMHC, LCPC, Counselor
Joseph Gottfried
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98229
Does your spirit feel bogged down by painful feelings and relationships? Would you like to bring your spirituality to counseling as a simpler, easier way to become freer and happier? I offer a safe place for you to talk and be heard and a way for you to change painful patterns from the inside out. Through powerful yet gentle methods alongside inner prayer/intention, you can resolve the root causes of personal problems like troubled relationships, anxiety, loss, depression, chronic pain/illness, lack of purpose, trauma, spiritual confusion or abuse, and addiction.
Does your spirit feel bogged down by painful feelings and relationships? Would you like to bring your spirituality to counseling as a simpler, easier way to become freer and happier? I offer a safe place for you to talk and be heard and a way for you to change painful patterns from the inside out. Through powerful yet gentle methods alongside inner prayer/intention, you can resolve the root causes of personal problems like troubled relationships, anxiety, loss, depression, chronic pain/illness, lack of purpose, trauma, spiritual confusion or abuse, and addiction.
(360) 295-2870 View (360) 295-2870
Photo of Eric W Huenefeld, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Eric W Huenefeld
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodinville, WA 98072
EMDR is also effective with depression, addiction, and many more life issues.
I help people (men, women, LGBTQ+, teens) transcend trauma and painful patterns, to help them uncover their potential and lead a joyful life. While we cannot change the past, I utilize EMDR and other techniques to reduce the disturbance that past events have on your mind and body. I am person-centered therapist who believes that my clients are the experts in their own lives. I will meet you where you are at. I provide a warm, judgment free space, strict confidentiality, and hope of healing. Reaching out is an act of courage that reaps surprising rewards. I look forward to meeting you and seeing if we are the right fit for you.
EMDR is also effective with depression, addiction, and many more life issues.
I help people (men, women, LGBTQ+, teens) transcend trauma and painful patterns, to help them uncover their potential and lead a joyful life. While we cannot change the past, I utilize EMDR and other techniques to reduce the disturbance that past events have on your mind and body. I am person-centered therapist who believes that my clients are the experts in their own lives. I will meet you where you are at. I provide a warm, judgment free space, strict confidentiality, and hope of healing. Reaching out is an act of courage that reaps surprising rewards. I look forward to meeting you and seeing if we are the right fit for you.
(425) 448-8512 View (425) 448-8512
Photo of Shira Olsen - Pacific Behavioral Healthcare, PhD, CST, EMDR, CCPS, CSAT, Psychologist
Pacific Behavioral Healthcare
Psychologist, PhD, CST, EMDR, CCPS, CSAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
We specialize in relationship conflicts, affair recovery, online infidelity, sex addiction, compulsive porn use, and betrayal trauma.
Is your relationship struggling to recover after infidelity? Does your partner's sexual addiction have you considering divorce? Is sex a problem in your relationship? Betrayal is a deeply traumatic experience that causes a huge rupture that is difficult to heal on you own. You may be questioning your entire relationship and wonder if healing is even possible. We provide a safe space for you to intimately share, receive empathy, and develop a plan to rebuild trust through consistent actions and honesty. It is possible to heal and feel close again. Let us guide you through the recovery process towards a more meaningful relationship.
We specialize in relationship conflicts, affair recovery, online infidelity, sex addiction, compulsive porn use, and betrayal trauma.
Is your relationship struggling to recover after infidelity? Does your partner's sexual addiction have you considering divorce? Is sex a problem in your relationship? Betrayal is a deeply traumatic experience that causes a huge rupture that is difficult to heal on you own. You may be questioning your entire relationship and wonder if healing is even possible. We provide a safe space for you to intimately share, receive empathy, and develop a plan to rebuild trust through consistent actions and honesty. It is possible to heal and feel close again. Let us guide you through the recovery process towards a more meaningful relationship.
(425) 214-9123 View (425) 214-9123
Photo of Chris Chandler, MA, LPCC, LMHC, LPC, CSAT-S, Counselor
Chris Chandler
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMHC, LPC, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
I facilitate 10 men's and 1 women's addiction recovery groups.
My passion is helping people build healthy and meaningful lives. I am a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist trained by Dr. Patrick Carnes, the pioneer in the field of sex addiction. I have extensive experience working with individuals struggling with all forms of addictions and compulsive behaviors including: sex, pornography, drugs, alcohol, food, work, spending, codependent relationships, etc. I use Internal Family Systems, and Lifespan Integration to help people become free from underlying relational/attachment wounds.
I facilitate 10 men's and 1 women's addiction recovery groups.
My passion is helping people build healthy and meaningful lives. I am a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist trained by Dr. Patrick Carnes, the pioneer in the field of sex addiction. I have extensive experience working with individuals struggling with all forms of addictions and compulsive behaviors including: sex, pornography, drugs, alcohol, food, work, spending, codependent relationships, etc. I use Internal Family Systems, and Lifespan Integration to help people become free from underlying relational/attachment wounds.
(425) 954-7494 View (425) 954-7494
Photo of Maryann Stigen, MA, LMHC, CPTT, Counselor
Maryann Stigen
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CPTT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mill Creek, WA 98012  (Online Only)
I help individuals & couples impacted by sex/porn addiction, and I also help those who don't fall into that category at all.
Hello and welcome! Allow me to state the obvious - psychotherapy with a stranger requires courage and feels daunting at first. I aim to make the process comfortable and less intimidating for you. If you've experienced trauma, are battling with addiction (yours or someone else's), feeling anxious, struggling in your relationships, or just want more out of life; faith-based counseling can be of great help. I'm passionate about helping marriages thrive and individuals heal. Having your story heard, your feelings validated, and your thoughts & patterns examined, brings new insight & change that your future self will thank you for.
I help individuals & couples impacted by sex/porn addiction, and I also help those who don't fall into that category at all.
Hello and welcome! Allow me to state the obvious - psychotherapy with a stranger requires courage and feels daunting at first. I aim to make the process comfortable and less intimidating for you. If you've experienced trauma, are battling with addiction (yours or someone else's), feeling anxious, struggling in your relationships, or just want more out of life; faith-based counseling can be of great help. I'm passionate about helping marriages thrive and individuals heal. Having your story heard, your feelings validated, and your thoughts & patterns examined, brings new insight & change that your future self will thank you for.
(360) 795-5047 View (360) 795-5047
Photo of Ann MacLean, MA, LMHC, EMDR, Counselor
Ann MacLean
Counselor, MA, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
I have a MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Embodied Creative Arts Therapy, prior certification in chemical dependency/ addiction counseling, and certification at EMDR.
Are you feeling stuck? What's getting in the way of living a satisfying life, one with heart and meaning? You may be coming to therapy because of a new development or something very old, you may not even know what it is. You may also be adding to your burden by judging your self unfairly. But there is hope, therapy can usher in exciting transformation. When we can embrace the gifts that come with challenges, old fears lose their power. I deeply enjoy helping clients explore/work through difficulties with the purpose of breaking old patterns and intentionally creating a new path forward. Healing and growth is possible for you too.
I have a MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Embodied Creative Arts Therapy, prior certification in chemical dependency/ addiction counseling, and certification at EMDR.
Are you feeling stuck? What's getting in the way of living a satisfying life, one with heart and meaning? You may be coming to therapy because of a new development or something very old, you may not even know what it is. You may also be adding to your burden by judging your self unfairly. But there is hope, therapy can usher in exciting transformation. When we can embrace the gifts that come with challenges, old fears lose their power. I deeply enjoy helping clients explore/work through difficulties with the purpose of breaking old patterns and intentionally creating a new path forward. Healing and growth is possible for you too.
(206) 683-4275 View (206) 683-4275
Photo of Daniel Richard Roberson, LMHC, MS
Daniel Richard Roberson
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arlington, WA 98223
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked in many areas, especially addictions counseling, and I know the places of addiction, abuse and loss have often been the source of hope for my clients.
My clients come from a variety of backgrounds and ages seeking healing and understanding of their relationships and meaning in life. Some suffer from substance addiction, others from work stress, and many from wounded relationships in their family. Their goals are redemption of their suffering, building new ways of relating to others and clearing the pain of the past from clouding the joy of the present. I am licensed in Washington and Idaho.
I have worked in many areas, especially addictions counseling, and I know the places of addiction, abuse and loss have often been the source of hope for my clients.
My clients come from a variety of backgrounds and ages seeking healing and understanding of their relationships and meaning in life. Some suffer from substance addiction, others from work stress, and many from wounded relationships in their family. Their goals are redemption of their suffering, building new ways of relating to others and clearing the pain of the past from clouding the joy of the present. I am licensed in Washington and Idaho.
(360) 615-3167 View (360) 615-3167
Photo of Ash Anthony, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ash Anthony
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98134
Welcome fellow human! It takes courage and self-compassion to seek support. Even if you struggle with not feeling good enough or accepting parts of yourself, you care enough about YOU to ask for help navigating your present circumstances. Life can be hard! We are constantly challenged every day to show up in the midst of great difficulty. Perhaps you are experiencing relationship issues, struggling with addiction, loneliness, emotional challenges, life transitions, old wounds, seeking personal growth, or experiencing struggles in your family. I am here to walk alongside you as you shift into new ways of being with your truth.
Welcome fellow human! It takes courage and self-compassion to seek support. Even if you struggle with not feeling good enough or accepting parts of yourself, you care enough about YOU to ask for help navigating your present circumstances. Life can be hard! We are constantly challenged every day to show up in the midst of great difficulty. Perhaps you are experiencing relationship issues, struggling with addiction, loneliness, emotional challenges, life transitions, old wounds, seeking personal growth, or experiencing struggles in your family. I am here to walk alongside you as you shift into new ways of being with your truth.
(206) 472-1461 View (206) 472-1461
Photo of Channelle Johnson, MS, NCC, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Channelle Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
I work with individuals facing challenges related to trauma, addiction, and attachment issues. Whether you’re struggling with past experiences, seeking recovery, or navigating relationship dynamics, I’m here to support you in your journey.
I work with individuals facing challenges related to trauma, addiction, and attachment issues. Whether you’re struggling with past experiences, seeking recovery, or navigating relationship dynamics, I’m here to support you in your journey.
(901) 450-5379 View (901) 450-5379
Photo of Denise Walker, PhD, Psychologist
Denise Walker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
I have openings for new clients via telehealth. I am a clinical psychologist who works with adolescents, adults and parents. My clinical specializations include substance use disorders (including specialized treatments for cannabis use disorders), depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, and health behavior change. I also work with parents who are concerned about the substance use of their child (including adolescents, adults, and individuals living with psychosis) who want to motivate change.
I have openings for new clients via telehealth. I am a clinical psychologist who works with adolescents, adults and parents. My clinical specializations include substance use disorders (including specialized treatments for cannabis use disorders), depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, and health behavior change. I also work with parents who are concerned about the substance use of their child (including adolescents, adults, and individuals living with psychosis) who want to motivate change.
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Photo of Gigi Aleen Servis, LCMHC, Counselor
Gigi Aleen Servis
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Lake Stevens, WA 98258  (Online Only)
am Gigi Servis, a seasoned practitioner licensed as a Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), a Certified Substance Use Disorder Professional (SUDP), and a Certified Hypnotherapist (CHt) in the state of Washington. I also have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and am trained in EMDR and trauma therapy. Approach to Therapy: In my practice, I integrate evidence-based modalities with holistic approaches to foster healing on multiple levels. I believe that therapy is a collaborative journey, and my approach is client-centered, strength-based, and rooted in empathy and respect.
am Gigi Servis, a seasoned practitioner licensed as a Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), a Certified Substance Use Disorder Professional (SUDP), and a Certified Hypnotherapist (CHt) in the state of Washington. I also have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and am trained in EMDR and trauma therapy. Approach to Therapy: In my practice, I integrate evidence-based modalities with holistic approaches to foster healing on multiple levels. I believe that therapy is a collaborative journey, and my approach is client-centered, strength-based, and rooted in empathy and respect.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Steve Dill, LMHC, CSAT, Counselor
Steve Dill
Counselor, LMHC, CSAT
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011  (Online Only)
When you or your loved one is struggling with the effects of betrayal or addiction, having someone who's an expert in both addiction recovery and relational reconciliation makes a significant difference in treatment outcomes.
Are you watching porn when you’ve tried to stop? Are you sexually “on” too much or all the time? Pursuing sexual encounters even when it violates your vows or values or it’s getting in the way of your work or other goals? These are sensitive issues and require a safe person to confide in but, if you can relate to this and your contemplating a change - call me - I can help. I’m a CSAT, Certified Sexual Addictions Therapist and I‘ve helped numerous men find their way back to peace with themselves and frequently reconciled relationships.
When you or your loved one is struggling with the effects of betrayal or addiction, having someone who's an expert in both addiction recovery and relational reconciliation makes a significant difference in treatment outcomes.
Are you watching porn when you’ve tried to stop? Are you sexually “on” too much or all the time? Pursuing sexual encounters even when it violates your vows or values or it’s getting in the way of your work or other goals? These are sensitive issues and require a safe person to confide in but, if you can relate to this and your contemplating a change - call me - I can help. I’m a CSAT, Certified Sexual Addictions Therapist and I‘ve helped numerous men find their way back to peace with themselves and frequently reconciled relationships.
(206) 539-1260 View (206) 539-1260

See more therapy options for Anacortes

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.