Photo of Chris Chandler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Miami, FL
Chris Chandler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMHC, CSAT-S, AF-EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33130  (Online Only)
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 Attachment-Focused EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and Lifespan Integration to help people become free from underlying relational/attachment wounds.
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 Attachment-Focused EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and Lifespan Integration to help people become free from underlying relational/attachment wounds.
(305) 419-3830 View (305) 419-3830
Photo of Eileen Wolfe, Counselor in Miami, FL
Eileen Wolfe
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in perinatal mental health, trauma, substance abuse, and career counseling.
Therapy is not a one size fits all process. It is my role as a therapist to find out more about who you are as a multifaceted individual and find what evidence based approach works best for you through empowerment and collaboration. In order to do this, I must work alongside each client to build a foundation of safety, trust, and rapport.
I have specialized training in perinatal mental health, trauma, substance abuse, and career counseling.
Therapy is not a one size fits all process. It is my role as a therapist to find out more about who you are as a multifaceted individual and find what evidence based approach works best for you through empowerment and collaboration. In order to do this, I must work alongside each client to build a foundation of safety, trust, and rapport.
(850) 790-0148 View (850) 790-0148
Photo of Linda Hood, Counselor in Miami, FL
Linda Hood
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with clients dealing with a range of issues including codependency, addiction, eating disorders, body image and self-esteem challenges, separation/divorce, loss and grief, abuse, depression and anxiety.
Hey there! I'm a passionate therapist who specializes in helping individuals and couples overcome deep-seated issues caused by past trauma and pain. My clients often feel that life threw them one (or more) unexpected curveballs, which left them feeling unsure, stuck, and repeating unwanted behaviors. Realizing that there is more to life, my clients reach out seeking freedom, recovery and nourishing relationships with themselves and others.
I have extensive experience working with clients dealing with a range of issues including codependency, addiction, eating disorders, body image and self-esteem challenges, separation/divorce, loss and grief, abuse, depression and anxiety.
Hey there! I'm a passionate therapist who specializes in helping individuals and couples overcome deep-seated issues caused by past trauma and pain. My clients often feel that life threw them one (or more) unexpected curveballs, which left them feeling unsure, stuck, and repeating unwanted behaviors. Realizing that there is more to life, my clients reach out seeking freedom, recovery and nourishing relationships with themselves and others.
(954) 466-8923 View (954) 466-8923
Photo of Norman Goldwasser, Psychologist in Miami, FL
Norman Goldwasser
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33110
My experience of 30 years of clinical practice has encompassed a wide range of issues and clients, including Narcissistic Personality; Gottman-trained, goal-oriented marital therapy; divorce mediation and co-parenting; multi-modal treatment of OCD and other anxiety-related disorders; substance abuse and behavior addictions, including sex, gambling, spending, and internet addictions; Adult and adolescent ADD; and trauma, and trauma-related phobias. With 25 years of intensive training and experience as an EMDR clinician and consultant, I use EMDR extensively, and use it to achieve timely and effective achievement of clients' goals.
My experience of 30 years of clinical practice has encompassed a wide range of issues and clients, including Narcissistic Personality; Gottman-trained, goal-oriented marital therapy; divorce mediation and co-parenting; multi-modal treatment of OCD and other anxiety-related disorders; substance abuse and behavior addictions, including sex, gambling, spending, and internet addictions; Adult and adolescent ADD; and trauma, and trauma-related phobias. With 25 years of intensive training and experience as an EMDR clinician and consultant, I use EMDR extensively, and use it to achieve timely and effective achievement of clients' goals.
(561) 288-8095 View (561) 288-8095
Photo of Carrie Glebe, Counselor in Miami, FL
Carrie Glebe
Counselor, LMHC, Online, Video
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33129  (Online Only)
You may be struggling with some form of addiction, self-sabotage, self-harm, shame/guilt, co-dependency, the trauma of past abuse, or you may currently be in an abusive situation. Do you find yourself asking "Why does this keep happening to me"? You know something has to change, but you just don’t know how to make it happen. If you are ready for that change I am here to help guide you on a healing path. In addition to childhood trauma I also specialize in working with adults involved in non-traditional relationships such as kink/BDSM, polyamory, & open relationships. I am experienced in working with transgender clients & LGBTQ+ .
You may be struggling with some form of addiction, self-sabotage, self-harm, shame/guilt, co-dependency, the trauma of past abuse, or you may currently be in an abusive situation. Do you find yourself asking "Why does this keep happening to me"? You know something has to change, but you just don’t know how to make it happen. If you are ready for that change I am here to help guide you on a healing path. In addition to childhood trauma I also specialize in working with adults involved in non-traditional relationships such as kink/BDSM, polyamory, & open relationships. I am experienced in working with transgender clients & LGBTQ+ .
(352) 441-2788 View (352) 441-2788
Photo of Melvyn Paul Heyes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami, FL
Melvyn Paul Heyes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33112
I work with career-oriented adults to resolve anxieties and depression, relationship issues, stress and help parents with challenging adolescents and children. Too much responsibility and stress at home, school or workplace often leads to strained relationships, isolation, loss of motivation or debilitating fears. I help people and families affected by anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavior challenges, defiance and anger, divorce or trauma. I've worked with children, teens and young adults with emotional disturbances, behavior problems, substance abuse, self-harm, or personality development issues, and helped couples reconnect.
I work with career-oriented adults to resolve anxieties and depression, relationship issues, stress and help parents with challenging adolescents and children. Too much responsibility and stress at home, school or workplace often leads to strained relationships, isolation, loss of motivation or debilitating fears. I help people and families affected by anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavior challenges, defiance and anger, divorce or trauma. I've worked with children, teens and young adults with emotional disturbances, behavior problems, substance abuse, self-harm, or personality development issues, and helped couples reconnect.
(301) 701-2308 View (301) 701-2308
Photo of Kim Miner, Counselor in Miami, FL
Kim Miner
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33199
I have a great deal of experience with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and addiction. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated to change, learn, and develop new skills. Honesty helps the process tremendously! I enjoy working with them because I have so many tips and techniques that I have seen work, and that gives me a great deal of motivation and drive to help them!
I have a great deal of experience with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and addiction. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated to change, learn, and develop new skills. Honesty helps the process tremendously! I enjoy working with them because I have so many tips and techniques that I have seen work, and that gives me a great deal of motivation and drive to help them!
(754) 465-0817 View (754) 465-0817
Photo of Joanne Baum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami, FL
Joanne Baum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33110  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I partner with the person I am working with and we collaboratively explore options that may fit your needs and bring you where you want to be, and how you want to be in your life. I am available for TeleHealth Sessions throughout Florida. If you want to tackle issues such as Addiction, Codependency, Trauma, Sexuality, Unmanageable Stress and Anxiety, Gambling, ADD, Feeling Intimidated by a Life Transition, Negative Self-Talk, Feeling Stuck, or making Personal and/or Career Changes we may want to meet. I use Brainspotting, talk therapies, and a variety of other treatment methods like CBT, MI, & DBT.
As a therapist, I partner with the person I am working with and we collaboratively explore options that may fit your needs and bring you where you want to be, and how you want to be in your life. I am available for TeleHealth Sessions throughout Florida. If you want to tackle issues such as Addiction, Codependency, Trauma, Sexuality, Unmanageable Stress and Anxiety, Gambling, ADD, Feeling Intimidated by a Life Transition, Negative Self-Talk, Feeling Stuck, or making Personal and/or Career Changes we may want to meet. I use Brainspotting, talk therapies, and a variety of other treatment methods like CBT, MI, & DBT.
(239) 268-6683 View (239) 268-6683
Photo of Rodrigo Dasilva, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami, FL
Rodrigo Dasilva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130  (Online Only)
I understand how shame affects many of us and its correlation to issues such as addiction and difficulties with intimacy.
I am currently seeing clients in New York, California and Florida State. I believe Psychotherapy is a collaborative venture that can help people lead a fulfilling life and maintain healthy relationships. In our work together my intention is to create a judgement-free space where I can understand your personal experience and nurture and support you in your journey towards authenticity and change. If you suffer with states of depression, anxiety, or loneliness, or you feel generally dissatisfied with aspects of your life, through our work together we can explore skills and tools that move you toward growth.
I understand how shame affects many of us and its correlation to issues such as addiction and difficulties with intimacy.
I am currently seeing clients in New York, California and Florida State. I believe Psychotherapy is a collaborative venture that can help people lead a fulfilling life and maintain healthy relationships. In our work together my intention is to create a judgement-free space where I can understand your personal experience and nurture and support you in your journey towards authenticity and change. If you suffer with states of depression, anxiety, or loneliness, or you feel generally dissatisfied with aspects of your life, through our work together we can explore skills and tools that move you toward growth.
(914) 809-8119 View (914) 809-8119
Photo of Joanna Jacobson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami, FL
Joanna Jacobson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33157  (Online Only)
I specialize in drug and alcohol addiction treatment, sex therapy, crisis intervention, PTSD, and a variety of mental health disorders.
Everyone deserves to be heard. Everyone deserves to be validated. Everyone is important. I really think that people have the choice to be whoever they want to be but they just have the tools to get there. I provide clients with those tools. I use a variety of techniques to get there but more than anything I learn all about you. What are your goals? Fears? Desires? What was your upbringing like? What’s most important to you? What are your relationships like? By asking poignant questions and connecting the dots between the past and future, I help clients get to know themselves deeply and find those aha moments.
I specialize in drug and alcohol addiction treatment, sex therapy, crisis intervention, PTSD, and a variety of mental health disorders.
Everyone deserves to be heard. Everyone deserves to be validated. Everyone is important. I really think that people have the choice to be whoever they want to be but they just have the tools to get there. I provide clients with those tools. I use a variety of techniques to get there but more than anything I learn all about you. What are your goals? Fears? Desires? What was your upbringing like? What’s most important to you? What are your relationships like? By asking poignant questions and connecting the dots between the past and future, I help clients get to know themselves deeply and find those aha moments.
(786) 755-5260 View (786) 755-5260
Photo of Patrick Sanfiel, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Miami, FL
Patrick Sanfiel
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33156
I am passionate about working with clients dealing with substance use issues, trauma, mood disorders like anxiety and depression, and a variety of other concerns.
Do you feel unsatisfied with where you find yourself at this time in your life? Are there patterns keeping you stuck or stagnant that you feel compelled to break? Or do you find yourself struggling to make it through each day while carrying the weight of something you've had to hold on your own for too long? For many of us, it can be overwhelming to make the types of changes needed to shift our relationships with ourselves and those around us in a more positive way.
I am passionate about working with clients dealing with substance use issues, trauma, mood disorders like anxiety and depression, and a variety of other concerns.
Do you feel unsatisfied with where you find yourself at this time in your life? Are there patterns keeping you stuck or stagnant that you feel compelled to break? Or do you find yourself struggling to make it through each day while carrying the weight of something you've had to hold on your own for too long? For many of us, it can be overwhelming to make the types of changes needed to shift our relationships with ourselves and those around us in a more positive way.
(786) 756-8199 View (786) 756-8199
Photo of Andrea Puech, Counselor in Miami, FL
Andrea Puech
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33155
I work with a wide array of issues including, anxiety, depression, trauma, stress-related problems, grief and loss, cross-cultural issues, substance abuse, anger management, domestic violence, parenting, family and couples’ relationships, and life transitions.
People seek my professional help for a variety of reasons. Sometimes, something in their lives is just not right. They may wish to make specific changes or to understand themselves better. They may struggle with their relationships, have difficulties in their jobs or studies, and/or old traumas continue to negatively affect their present. Also, sometimes they just don’t know what to do with their inner voice that is too critical and sabotages their lives. Therapy or counseling is not always about making big changes or exploring past issues. It can be used to simply have a place to check-in and stay attuned with themselves.
I work with a wide array of issues including, anxiety, depression, trauma, stress-related problems, grief and loss, cross-cultural issues, substance abuse, anger management, domestic violence, parenting, family and couples’ relationships, and life transitions.
People seek my professional help for a variety of reasons. Sometimes, something in their lives is just not right. They may wish to make specific changes or to understand themselves better. They may struggle with their relationships, have difficulties in their jobs or studies, and/or old traumas continue to negatively affect their present. Also, sometimes they just don’t know what to do with their inner voice that is too critical and sabotages their lives. Therapy or counseling is not always about making big changes or exploring past issues. It can be used to simply have a place to check-in and stay attuned with themselves.
(786) 509-4098 View (786) 509-4098
Photo of Andrea Connell, Pre-Licensed Professional in Miami, FL
Andrea Connell
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33179  (Online Only)
Guiding individuals across the lifespan through their healing journey, I specialize in transforming lives touched by severe trauma, substance abuse disorders and other chronic illnesses, and the spectrum of emotional challenges, including anxiety, depression, and autism.
With a compassionate heart and evidence-based strategies, I have a rich history of helping children with autism build social skills and emotional resilience. My commitment extends to nurturing stronger bonds through family, couples, and marriage counseling, where communication and connection are rekindled. You deserve a vibrant life—a life where each morning brings a renewed sense of hope and excitement. Together, we can unlock the profound mysteries of your mind and navigate the complexities of your world with insightful, empathetic guidance. Let's begin your unique journey towards a fulfilling and joyful existence.
Guiding individuals across the lifespan through their healing journey, I specialize in transforming lives touched by severe trauma, substance abuse disorders and other chronic illnesses, and the spectrum of emotional challenges, including anxiety, depression, and autism.
With a compassionate heart and evidence-based strategies, I have a rich history of helping children with autism build social skills and emotional resilience. My commitment extends to nurturing stronger bonds through family, couples, and marriage counseling, where communication and connection are rekindled. You deserve a vibrant life—a life where each morning brings a renewed sense of hope and excitement. Together, we can unlock the profound mysteries of your mind and navigate the complexities of your world with insightful, empathetic guidance. Let's begin your unique journey towards a fulfilling and joyful existence.
(954) 866-8218 View (954) 866-8218
Photo of Trauma Counseling of Florida Paige L. Shiffman , Counselor in Miami, FL
Trauma Counseling of Florida Paige L. Shiffman
Counselor, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33127  (Online Only)
Do you struggle to cope with everyday issues? Are you experiencing high levels of anxiety and depression that won't go away? When we've experienced trauma in our lives, everyday problems can seem too big and overwhelming to handle. Maybe you're experiencing flashbacks, nightmares, panic attacks or constantly finding yourself in toxic relationships. I have many years of experience in helping clients identify the root of their destructive patterns as well as overcome trauma and PTSD. I am also highly experienced in treating depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, adjustment challenges and loss/grief.
Do you struggle to cope with everyday issues? Are you experiencing high levels of anxiety and depression that won't go away? When we've experienced trauma in our lives, everyday problems can seem too big and overwhelming to handle. Maybe you're experiencing flashbacks, nightmares, panic attacks or constantly finding yourself in toxic relationships. I have many years of experience in helping clients identify the root of their destructive patterns as well as overcome trauma and PTSD. I am also highly experienced in treating depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, adjustment challenges and loss/grief.
(305) 846-7911 View (305) 846-7911
Photo of Arlena Sharpe Brookins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami, FL
Arlena Sharpe Brookins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33130
I believe in working with the total person: mind, body, and spirit. I assist clients in finding their own personal strength, wisdom, and enlightenment. I have experience working with neurotypical and neurodiverse individuals, couples, and families struggling with a myriad of issues, including substance use, relationships, anxiety, grief, and trauma. I work with the client’s strengths while helping each to examine themself, their environment, and the relationship between the two. The change is in you. I am here to help.
I believe in working with the total person: mind, body, and spirit. I assist clients in finding their own personal strength, wisdom, and enlightenment. I have experience working with neurotypical and neurodiverse individuals, couples, and families struggling with a myriad of issues, including substance use, relationships, anxiety, grief, and trauma. I work with the client’s strengths while helping each to examine themself, their environment, and the relationship between the two. The change is in you. I am here to help.
(321) 241-2569 View (321) 241-2569
Photo of Drake Schoeppl, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami, FL
Drake Schoeppl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33137  (Online Only)
Sometimes life becomes unmanageable on our own and we have to reach out for help. I am here to help normalize therapy and the discomfort that comes along with it. I am trained in EMDR, a modality used to help process traumatic memories and the cognitions associated with them. I specialize in working with individuals suffering from chronic anxiety, depression, complex trauma, emotional dysregulation, identity issues, addiction, LGBTQ+ issues, and everyday life stressors that can be difficult to manage.
Sometimes life becomes unmanageable on our own and we have to reach out for help. I am here to help normalize therapy and the discomfort that comes along with it. I am trained in EMDR, a modality used to help process traumatic memories and the cognitions associated with them. I specialize in working with individuals suffering from chronic anxiety, depression, complex trauma, emotional dysregulation, identity issues, addiction, LGBTQ+ issues, and everyday life stressors that can be difficult to manage.
(754) 704-5188 View (754) 704-5188
Photo of Melissa Moreno, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami, FL
Melissa Moreno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130  (Online Only)
My focus of work and clients are individuals with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, and addiction.
Life can be hard! My approach to therapy is to share with you a safe, non-judgmental space which we can build a strong therapeutic relationship so that together we can explore the challenges you face and develop a way to make changes and choices in your life so that your life is easier. I use a mix of evidence-based practices and approaches including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I will support you through our collaborative work in addressing harm, coping strategies, and facilitating healing. Through collaboration and support I will help empower you to understand your feelings and behavior.
My focus of work and clients are individuals with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, and addiction.
Life can be hard! My approach to therapy is to share with you a safe, non-judgmental space which we can build a strong therapeutic relationship so that together we can explore the challenges you face and develop a way to make changes and choices in your life so that your life is easier. I use a mix of evidence-based practices and approaches including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I will support you through our collaborative work in addressing harm, coping strategies, and facilitating healing. Through collaboration and support I will help empower you to understand your feelings and behavior.
(786) 244-7347 View (786) 244-7347
Photo of Ditchek Psychological Services, PLLC, Psychologist in Miami, FL
Ditchek Psychological Services, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33109  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who will offer you a safe, caring, and supportive environment. In my 20 + years of clinical experience, I believe having a mutual and reciprocal therapeutic relationship is one of the first steps for growth and change. I value your input and will work with you as a team to help you identify and achieve your goals. I have a strong background in treating children, adolescents and adults with issues related to mood, relationships, adjustments to life transitions, anxiety, work or school performance, medical issues, eating disorders, substance abuse, stress, parenting, and other psychological disorders.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who will offer you a safe, caring, and supportive environment. In my 20 + years of clinical experience, I believe having a mutual and reciprocal therapeutic relationship is one of the first steps for growth and change. I value your input and will work with you as a team to help you identify and achieve your goals. I have a strong background in treating children, adolescents and adults with issues related to mood, relationships, adjustments to life transitions, anxiety, work or school performance, medical issues, eating disorders, substance abuse, stress, parenting, and other psychological disorders.
(847) 920-7895 View (847) 920-7895
Photo of Annette Bovee-Akyurek, Marriage & Family Therapist in Miami, FL
Annette Bovee-Akyurek
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LMHC, NCC, PT
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33140
I am a psychotherapist & physical therapist specializing in therapy for the mind & body from an integrative perspective. I work with adolescents & adults (individual, couple, and/or family sessions). I assist with emotional, psychosocial issues (anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship & self-esteem difficulties, aspects of addiction), & physical issues (chronic pain, headaches, stomach problems, pre/post natal). I also assist those in self exploration & wellness. I facilitate well-being, drawing from your internal resources towards change. Sessions are specific to your needs, exploring your natural self-corrected process.
I am a psychotherapist & physical therapist specializing in therapy for the mind & body from an integrative perspective. I work with adolescents & adults (individual, couple, and/or family sessions). I assist with emotional, psychosocial issues (anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship & self-esteem difficulties, aspects of addiction), & physical issues (chronic pain, headaches, stomach problems, pre/post natal). I also assist those in self exploration & wellness. I facilitate well-being, drawing from your internal resources towards change. Sessions are specific to your needs, exploring your natural self-corrected process.
(954) 715-2901 View (954) 715-2901
Photo of Lee Schlanger, Counselor in Miami, FL
Lee Schlanger
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, CCTP, MCAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33185  (Online Only)
Lee Schlanger is a Florida State Licensed Mental Health Counselor currently living Sarasota, FL by way of New York City, NY. Lee has a passion for animals and doing anything outdoors, and is an avid sports fan. Lee has been working as a Mental Health Counselor since of 2016. Lee specializes in working with clients who are experiencing anxiety and depression as well as specializes in working with clients who have undergone grief, loss, and traumatic events, as well as substance abuse recovery, and more. Lee is also a Board Certified Tele-Mental Health Provider and specializes in Telehealth sessions and is Certified EMDR and Trauma.
Lee Schlanger is a Florida State Licensed Mental Health Counselor currently living Sarasota, FL by way of New York City, NY. Lee has a passion for animals and doing anything outdoors, and is an avid sports fan. Lee has been working as a Mental Health Counselor since of 2016. Lee specializes in working with clients who are experiencing anxiety and depression as well as specializes in working with clients who have undergone grief, loss, and traumatic events, as well as substance abuse recovery, and more. Lee is also a Board Certified Tele-Mental Health Provider and specializes in Telehealth sessions and is Certified EMDR and Trauma.
(941) 214-6132 View (941) 214-6132
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.