Photo of Kelly R Frost, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Washington
Kelly R Frost
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LMHCA, SUDP, DVIC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
For the past 10 years I have worked to create a therapeautic approach that is patient, compassionate and understanding of the process of addiction.
I specialize in working with clients that try to manage life's pain with substances and other addictions. Many of my clients want to simply change their using habits and I work to support them weekly in understanding their intentions, feelings and motivations as they make healthy changes to their relationship with alcohol or other drugs. As we well know, many clients suffering from substance use disorders have a myriad of other issues that drive these compulsive coping mechanisms; I am experienced in many co-occuring issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma or grief. Supervisor: T. Christopher Portman PhD.
For the past 10 years I have worked to create a therapeautic approach that is patient, compassionate and understanding of the process of addiction.
I specialize in working with clients that try to manage life's pain with substances and other addictions. Many of my clients want to simply change their using habits and I work to support them weekly in understanding their intentions, feelings and motivations as they make healthy changes to their relationship with alcohol or other drugs. As we well know, many clients suffering from substance use disorders have a myriad of other issues that drive these compulsive coping mechanisms; I am experienced in many co-occuring issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma or grief. Supervisor: T. Christopher Portman PhD.
(360) 227-4939 View (360) 227-4939
Photo of Traverse Therapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington
Traverse Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, SUDP
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98204
We are accepting new clients. My name is David Woldtvedt. Much of my clinical experience has involved working with adults, teens, and their families impacted by addiction, co-occurring mental health issues, anxiety, mood disorders, and adverse childhood experiences. As a practitioner I aim to build a relationship with each of my clients that involves the foundational elements of meeting individuals where they are at, developing trust, and displaying unconditional positive regard.
We are accepting new clients. My name is David Woldtvedt. Much of my clinical experience has involved working with adults, teens, and their families impacted by addiction, co-occurring mental health issues, anxiety, mood disorders, and adverse childhood experiences. As a practitioner I aim to build a relationship with each of my clients that involves the foundational elements of meeting individuals where they are at, developing trust, and displaying unconditional positive regard.
(425) 569-0634 View (425) 569-0634
Photo of Elisa Stepp, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington
Elisa Stepp
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Centralia, WA 98531
I have worked in school systems as a Mental Health Professional and a Substance Abuse Counselor.
All are welcome at Abundance Family Therapy! Everyone has times that seem too hard to bear. Life can seem pretty heavy at times, and we just need our load lightened. Sometimes the heaviness comes from feelings of anxiety, depression, life transitions, loneliness, spiritual challenges, communication issues or even relationship fractures. If you find yourself feeling the weight of these things or perhaps other things in your life, please come on in and let me help lighten your load. Although experiencing these feelings or situations remind us, we are human, it is the overcoming that brings peace and growth.
I have worked in school systems as a Mental Health Professional and a Substance Abuse Counselor.
All are welcome at Abundance Family Therapy! Everyone has times that seem too hard to bear. Life can seem pretty heavy at times, and we just need our load lightened. Sometimes the heaviness comes from feelings of anxiety, depression, life transitions, loneliness, spiritual challenges, communication issues or even relationship fractures. If you find yourself feeling the weight of these things or perhaps other things in your life, please come on in and let me help lighten your load. Although experiencing these feelings or situations remind us, we are human, it is the overcoming that brings peace and growth.
(360) 230-7817 View (360) 230-7817
Photo of Lisa F Parker, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Washington
Lisa F Parker
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, SUDP, CDWF
Verified Verified
If you are struggling with substance use, relationship issues, consequences of choices or just need an outside perspective on a situation, I want to help you find your way toward a happier, healthier life! I believe that every person has the ability to improve their lives. I feel honored to be able to walk beside you as you discover the answer to your struggles.
If you are struggling with substance use, relationship issues, consequences of choices or just need an outside perspective on a situation, I want to help you find your way toward a happier, healthier life! I believe that every person has the ability to improve their lives. I feel honored to be able to walk beside you as you discover the answer to your struggles.
(509) 240-8715 View (509) 240-8715
Photo of Jenny Wilson Counseling, Counselor in Washington
Jenny Wilson Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Additionally, I offer individual treatment for both behavioral addiction and substance abuse disorders.
Human beings are born with a desire to be seen, cherished, nurtured, witnessed, engaged, and comforted. People crave connection with one another, relationships fall short, hearts get broken, and our most genuine selves are buried beneath layers meant to defend against further wounding. My passion is helping people find healing and joy after surviving significant disappointment and trauma. I offer clients an invitation to grieve and to challenge defense mechanisms that undermine healthy relationship to self and others. I provide a safe and calm space in which therapeutic integration leads to wholeness and health.
Additionally, I offer individual treatment for both behavioral addiction and substance abuse disorders.
Human beings are born with a desire to be seen, cherished, nurtured, witnessed, engaged, and comforted. People crave connection with one another, relationships fall short, hearts get broken, and our most genuine selves are buried beneath layers meant to defend against further wounding. My passion is helping people find healing and joy after surviving significant disappointment and trauma. I offer clients an invitation to grieve and to challenge defense mechanisms that undermine healthy relationship to self and others. I provide a safe and calm space in which therapeutic integration leads to wholeness and health.
(206) 207-1330 View (206) 207-1330
Photo of Max Duane Whipple III, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Washington
Max Duane Whipple III
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, SUDP
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Ultimately, addiction is a distraction from life's meaning and purpose. My primary focus is seeing my client connect to their own meaning and purpose--not only in recovery but life generally. Through these re-connections one can forge a prolonged and stable sense of progress that paves the way toward whatever goal is on the horizon. I do not believe I am in the business of ‘fixing’ anyone, instead supporting people as they realize their own potential to overcome whatever challenges are preventing them from living the life they deserve.
Ultimately, addiction is a distraction from life's meaning and purpose. My primary focus is seeing my client connect to their own meaning and purpose--not only in recovery but life generally. Through these re-connections one can forge a prolonged and stable sense of progress that paves the way toward whatever goal is on the horizon. I do not believe I am in the business of ‘fixing’ anyone, instead supporting people as they realize their own potential to overcome whatever challenges are preventing them from living the life they deserve.
(360) 200-7266 View (360) 200-7266
Photo of Anthony M Kagochi, Counselor in Washington
Anthony M Kagochi
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orting, WA 98360
Waitlist for new clients
I welcome all people young and older; I have extensive experience working with individuals and families who are struggling with addiction issues, relationship/marital issues, depression, anxiety, trauma and troubles in their career.
I welcome all people young and older; I have extensive experience working with individuals and families who are struggling with addiction issues, relationship/marital issues, depression, anxiety, trauma and troubles in their career.
(253) 259-2505 View (253) 259-2505
Photo of Victoria Rotton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington
Victoria Rotton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kenmore, WA 98028
I use a number of treatment modalities and address a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, addiction recovery, and trauma.
Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy is a research validated method in which partners learn to identify harmful and entrenched patterns within their marriage and develop the skills to engage in a new way. Your relationship may be highly reactive and conflictual or feel like an emotional desert where closeness disappeared long ago. In either case, EFT can help you create a partnership that is nourishing and a haven for personal growth. I am an advanced practitioner of EFT. I work with both heterosexual and same sex couples.
I use a number of treatment modalities and address a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, addiction recovery, and trauma.
Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy is a research validated method in which partners learn to identify harmful and entrenched patterns within their marriage and develop the skills to engage in a new way. Your relationship may be highly reactive and conflictual or feel like an emotional desert where closeness disappeared long ago. In either case, EFT can help you create a partnership that is nourishing and a haven for personal growth. I am an advanced practitioner of EFT. I work with both heterosexual and same sex couples.
(425) 318-7321 View (425) 318-7321
Photo of Chris Byers, Counselor in Washington
Chris Byers
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98006
Healing, growth, and change. Are you wondering if these common outcomes of therapy are actually possible for you, or if therapy works at all? Maybe you have a different set of questions. Can someone really help me overcome this dark depression or intense anxiety? Am I the only one feeling like this? Can our relationship rebound after this betrayal? What's wrong with me/him/her/us? Will I ever be free of this addiction? Why can't they just be happy for me? Questions like these are worthy to ask and it takes courage to seek the answers.
Healing, growth, and change. Are you wondering if these common outcomes of therapy are actually possible for you, or if therapy works at all? Maybe you have a different set of questions. Can someone really help me overcome this dark depression or intense anxiety? Am I the only one feeling like this? Can our relationship rebound after this betrayal? What's wrong with me/him/her/us? Will I ever be free of this addiction? Why can't they just be happy for me? Questions like these are worthy to ask and it takes courage to seek the answers.
(425) 409-9002 x700 View (425) 409-9002 x700
Photo of Emily Nelson, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Washington
Emily Nelson
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LMHCA, SUDP
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043  (Online Only)
My clients often come to me facing challenges navigating life and trying to manage things like anxiety, stress, substance use issues, and relationships. Maybe traditional methods of recovery haven't worked for you and you're feeling stuck. Or maybe you want to continue working from a traditional recovery lense & fine tune some of your skills. My clients come wanting to explore their substance use, identify what their ideal recovery looks like and how to get there. You can expect us working together in sessions to develop realistic and attainable goals; things that you would like to see change in your life. Let me help you get there!
My clients often come to me facing challenges navigating life and trying to manage things like anxiety, stress, substance use issues, and relationships. Maybe traditional methods of recovery haven't worked for you and you're feeling stuck. Or maybe you want to continue working from a traditional recovery lense & fine tune some of your skills. My clients come wanting to explore their substance use, identify what their ideal recovery looks like and how to get there. You can expect us working together in sessions to develop realistic and attainable goals; things that you would like to see change in your life. Let me help you get there!
(425) 428-4322 View (425) 428-4322
Photo of Patrick James Hart, Counselor in Washington
Patrick James Hart
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
Private Addiction Treatment | Family Intervention Specialist for Alcohol Drug Crisis Prevention: Evidence based cognitive behavior therapy that goes far beyond the mundane alcohol drug addiction "rehabilitation" programs model.
Mental Health Counseling in Seattle | Psychotherapy Private Practice: Psychotherapist and counselor for problems of depression and anxiety. Therapy for panic disorder, generalized anxiety, post traumatic stress, simple phobia, anger management, stress reduction, social anxiety, phobias and avoidance. I help people by providing skills based therapy to assure you effectively manage your moods, emotions and behavior. I'll help you learn the competencies to resolve unwanted life defeating habits. Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Learn effective personal solutions from anxiety and panic to sex & pornography addiction - lasting behavior change. Thanks for your interest in my practice! I'm just a phone call away!
Private Addiction Treatment | Family Intervention Specialist for Alcohol Drug Crisis Prevention: Evidence based cognitive behavior therapy that goes far beyond the mundane alcohol drug addiction "rehabilitation" programs model.
Mental Health Counseling in Seattle | Psychotherapy Private Practice: Psychotherapist and counselor for problems of depression and anxiety. Therapy for panic disorder, generalized anxiety, post traumatic stress, simple phobia, anger management, stress reduction, social anxiety, phobias and avoidance. I help people by providing skills based therapy to assure you effectively manage your moods, emotions and behavior. I'll help you learn the competencies to resolve unwanted life defeating habits. Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Learn effective personal solutions from anxiety and panic to sex & pornography addiction - lasting behavior change. Thanks for your interest in my practice! I'm just a phone call away!
(253) 642-7941 View (253) 642-7941
Photo of Eric W Huenefeld, Counselor in Washington
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 Maria Elizabeth Uchytil, Counselor in Washington
Maria Elizabeth Uchytil
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, SUDP, CC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I have extensive training and experience in dual-diagnosis, addiction, mood disorders, crisis intervention, and stress physiology.
I provide non-judgmental, empathetic, and person-centered approach to therapy. My goal as a licensed counselor will be to develop a collaborative relationship where each client feels empowered to act as an expert in developing healthy coping skills, manage anxiety, depression, navigate difficult life transitions, reduce stress and emotional distress, to enhance communication skills and relationships. In therapy, we can learn to become more aware of our thoughts and actions, of how negative thought patterns and behaviors may be blocking our self-awareness and making us unhappy, and how we can change.
I have extensive training and experience in dual-diagnosis, addiction, mood disorders, crisis intervention, and stress physiology.
I provide non-judgmental, empathetic, and person-centered approach to therapy. My goal as a licensed counselor will be to develop a collaborative relationship where each client feels empowered to act as an expert in developing healthy coping skills, manage anxiety, depression, navigate difficult life transitions, reduce stress and emotional distress, to enhance communication skills and relationships. In therapy, we can learn to become more aware of our thoughts and actions, of how negative thought patterns and behaviors may be blocking our self-awareness and making us unhappy, and how we can change.
(206) 460-1622 View (206) 460-1622
Photo of Sharon Winkler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington
Sharon Winkler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, MAC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98684
I see adults and couples, and, though I treat a wide variety of problems, I specialize in couple therapy and in treating complex trauma and substance use disorders.
If you’re looking for a therapy of depth, insight, and durability; if you’re seeking a highly-trained therapist with over 35 years of experience who listens carefully, deeply, and thoughtfully; if you’ve been disappointed by ‘quick fix’ approaches that promise much and deliver little; if you want an individualized approach designed specifically with your needs in mind, then please call me to discuss whether we might be a good fit.
I see adults and couples, and, though I treat a wide variety of problems, I specialize in couple therapy and in treating complex trauma and substance use disorders.
If you’re looking for a therapy of depth, insight, and durability; if you’re seeking a highly-trained therapist with over 35 years of experience who listens carefully, deeply, and thoughtfully; if you’ve been disappointed by ‘quick fix’ approaches that promise much and deliver little; if you want an individualized approach designed specifically with your needs in mind, then please call me to discuss whether we might be a good fit.
(360) 448-3379 View (360) 448-3379
Photo of Kelly Lynn Rundle, Counselor in Washington
Kelly Lynn Rundle
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CDP
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033
My therapy practice specializes in mood disorders, working with individuals, couples and families. I am also a Board Certified Executive Coach and specialize in business coaching and leadership development with an emphasis on Emotional Intelligence. Through a fun, collaborative relationship, there is always a way to address the issues you face and learn coping strategies to help you both right now and in the future. Depression, anxiety, substance abuse, marital conflict, job stress, career and life transitions.
My therapy practice specializes in mood disorders, working with individuals, couples and families. I am also a Board Certified Executive Coach and specialize in business coaching and leadership development with an emphasis on Emotional Intelligence. Through a fun, collaborative relationship, there is always a way to address the issues you face and learn coping strategies to help you both right now and in the future. Depression, anxiety, substance abuse, marital conflict, job stress, career and life transitions.
(425) 399-7127 View (425) 399-7127
Photo of Basic Steps Mental Health, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington
Basic Steps Mental Health
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT, CDP
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98204
Having issues with generalized anxiety and substance use in the past, I believe that the people who have been there and recovered are the best guides. The formula I use is applying love to hurt. When we find the root cause of Addiction and mood disorders and treat it with compassion, amazing results can be found. I have proven this when I worked at the first Mental Health Urgent Care. I also have extensive experience with trauma, since I am an abuse survivor. I mix and match 10 different therapy approaches in an effort to treat the whole person. Each person is unique and obtains a treatment plan suited to them.
Having issues with generalized anxiety and substance use in the past, I believe that the people who have been there and recovered are the best guides. The formula I use is applying love to hurt. When we find the root cause of Addiction and mood disorders and treat it with compassion, amazing results can be found. I have proven this when I worked at the first Mental Health Urgent Care. I also have extensive experience with trauma, since I am an abuse survivor. I mix and match 10 different therapy approaches in an effort to treat the whole person. Each person is unique and obtains a treatment plan suited to them.
(425) 312-6413 View (425) 312-6413
Photo of Brandon Tripp, MS, LMHC, SUDP, MAC, SAP, Counselor in Washington
Brandon Tripp, MS, LMHC, SUDP, MAC, SAP
Counselor, MS, LMHC, SUDP, MAC, SAP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98118
Families, partners, and support persons impacted by substance abuse, Co-occurring Disorders, parenting, substance abuse and/or disordered eating during pregnancy, and parents of individuals identified to be on the Autism spectrum or that have sensory sensitivity.
My Clients: I regularly work with clients on common issues such as: major life transitions, depression, anxiety, struggles with work-life balance, racial identity, family of origin issues, grief, trauma, and addiction recovery. I am passionate about working with: People of color, Students, people who identify as possessing multiple minority identities, LGBTQIA+, relationship problems, bicultural stress, cultural adjustment, sexual trauma, and issues related to sexual identity and gender. I am also comfortable working with non-heteronormative relationship lifestyles; particularly navigating issues related to open/poly relationships.
Families, partners, and support persons impacted by substance abuse, Co-occurring Disorders, parenting, substance abuse and/or disordered eating during pregnancy, and parents of individuals identified to be on the Autism spectrum or that have sensory sensitivity.
My Clients: I regularly work with clients on common issues such as: major life transitions, depression, anxiety, struggles with work-life balance, racial identity, family of origin issues, grief, trauma, and addiction recovery. I am passionate about working with: People of color, Students, people who identify as possessing multiple minority identities, LGBTQIA+, relationship problems, bicultural stress, cultural adjustment, sexual trauma, and issues related to sexual identity and gender. I am also comfortable working with non-heteronormative relationship lifestyles; particularly navigating issues related to open/poly relationships.
(425) 230-4099 View (425) 230-4099
Photo of Kat Allen, Counselor in Washington
Kat Allen
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98136
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in relationships, emotional regulation, anxiety-depression, trauma, and addiction.
Experienced and insightful, I help clients find their way back to themselves and their relationships by increasing curiosity, compassion, and insight through the ability to self-reflect. Employing mindfulness, emotionally-focused and body-awareness therapies along with traditional talk therapy, I share ways to recognize ineffective patterns, increase somatic and emotional intelligence, understand and develop new coping skills, and enhance empathy and positivity.
I specialize in relationships, emotional regulation, anxiety-depression, trauma, and addiction.
Experienced and insightful, I help clients find their way back to themselves and their relationships by increasing curiosity, compassion, and insight through the ability to self-reflect. Employing mindfulness, emotionally-focused and body-awareness therapies along with traditional talk therapy, I share ways to recognize ineffective patterns, increase somatic and emotional intelligence, understand and develop new coping skills, and enhance empathy and positivity.
(206) 745-6322 View (206) 745-6322
Photo of Lea Fairbanks, Counselor in Washington
Lea Fairbanks
Counselor, LMHC, CCGS, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shoreline, WA 98155
In person sessions now available on Tuesdays in Bothell Office. Life can be messy, painful and complex. Therapy emerges as a sacred space in which we can navigate the intricate layers of life, fostering reconnection and a deeper self-understanding. Embracing a psychodynamic approach, my commitment is to accompany you on a transformative journey of self-exploration. Together, we will encourage a curious exploration of your identity and shedding light on patterns that may no longer serve you. My specialization are working with clients who are grappling with trauma, perfectionism, grief, anxiety, depression and addiction.
In person sessions now available on Tuesdays in Bothell Office. Life can be messy, painful and complex. Therapy emerges as a sacred space in which we can navigate the intricate layers of life, fostering reconnection and a deeper self-understanding. Embracing a psychodynamic approach, my commitment is to accompany you on a transformative journey of self-exploration. Together, we will encourage a curious exploration of your identity and shedding light on patterns that may no longer serve you. My specialization are working with clients who are grappling with trauma, perfectionism, grief, anxiety, depression and addiction.
(425) 441-3401 View (425) 441-3401
Photo of Kenneth Roy Collins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington
Kenneth Roy Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, SAP
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368  (Online Only)
My areas of specialization are substance abuse recovery, couples counseling, trauma recovery and loss.
As a therapist, I believe in being genuine, respectful and empathetic. For a therapeutic relationship to develop, clients need to feel seen and understood. I strive to help my clients understand their own emotions, cope with difficult feelings, improve their relationships with themselves and the people they care about. Years ago, as a beginning therapist, I was influenced by research showing that the critical therapeutic element in psychotherapy, regardless of the discipline, was the relationship between the therapist and the client. Contemporary research confirms the importance of relationship in fostering therapeutic change.
My areas of specialization are substance abuse recovery, couples counseling, trauma recovery and loss.
As a therapist, I believe in being genuine, respectful and empathetic. For a therapeutic relationship to develop, clients need to feel seen and understood. I strive to help my clients understand their own emotions, cope with difficult feelings, improve their relationships with themselves and the people they care about. Years ago, as a beginning therapist, I was influenced by research showing that the critical therapeutic element in psychotherapy, regardless of the discipline, was the relationship between the therapist and the client. Contemporary research confirms the importance of relationship in fostering therapeutic change.
(360) 467-8103 View (360) 467-8103
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.