Addiction Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Dean Moses - Spearhead Health, CADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Spearhead Health
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
The team at Spearhead Health offers an open minded view of addiction and mental health.
Regardless of the circumstances, my ideal participant is one who has any amount of motivation and hope that things can be different in their life. I struggled for many years with a substance abuse disorder (specifically opiates among many other substances) that caused wreckage in my life on so many levels. I can empathize with the human that is using and does not know how to stop. I believe in your power, your resilience, and your spirit. I have helped people with complex mental health issues that include bipolar with psychotic features, depression, anxiety, and a range of substance use disorders & addiction.
The team at Spearhead Health offers an open minded view of addiction and mental health.
Regardless of the circumstances, my ideal participant is one who has any amount of motivation and hope that things can be different in their life. I struggled for many years with a substance abuse disorder (specifically opiates among many other substances) that caused wreckage in my life on so many levels. I can empathize with the human that is using and does not know how to stop. I believe in your power, your resilience, and your spirit. I have helped people with complex mental health issues that include bipolar with psychotic features, depression, anxiety, and a range of substance use disorders & addiction.
(469) 489-3775 View (469) 489-3775
Photo of Lindsey D Herrera, CADC, III, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Lindsey D Herrera
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC, III
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90049  (Online Only)
No individual is the same and therefore, I believe, no recovery journey is identical. I work to create an environment where my clients feel heard, understood, and supported as they explore their relationship with substances. I like to approach sessions as a team and empower my clients to make more effective decisions that align with their personal goals. Additionally, I provide support to families and loved ones affected by substance use through psychoeducation, improving communication, establishing healthy boundaries, and connecting them with additional resources as needed.
No individual is the same and therefore, I believe, no recovery journey is identical. I work to create an environment where my clients feel heard, understood, and supported as they explore their relationship with substances. I like to approach sessions as a team and empower my clients to make more effective decisions that align with their personal goals. Additionally, I provide support to families and loved ones affected by substance use through psychoeducation, improving communication, establishing healthy boundaries, and connecting them with additional resources as needed.
(310) 742-0889 View (310) 742-0889
Photo of Jacqueline Bocian, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacqueline Bocian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
I am intrigued by individuals who struggle with addictions of all kinds, both substance and behavioral.
My style is collaborative, client-centered, positive-energy, and solution-focused. I support my clients in developing solutions based on their goals and aspirations. My ideal client is one who is willing to "go deep," to learn about aspects of personality, behavior, and character that can contribute to developing a more profound sense of joy and fulfillment. Many of my clients are searching for the meaning and purpose of their lives:exciting work! On a personal level, I am warm, caring, compassionate, and non-judgmental. I read widely and draw from the fields of neurobiology, sleep medicine, and addiction medicine.
I am intrigued by individuals who struggle with addictions of all kinds, both substance and behavioral.
My style is collaborative, client-centered, positive-energy, and solution-focused. I support my clients in developing solutions based on their goals and aspirations. My ideal client is one who is willing to "go deep," to learn about aspects of personality, behavior, and character that can contribute to developing a more profound sense of joy and fulfillment. Many of my clients are searching for the meaning and purpose of their lives:exciting work! On a personal level, I am warm, caring, compassionate, and non-judgmental. I read widely and draw from the fields of neurobiology, sleep medicine, and addiction medicine.
(310) 597-0387 View (310) 597-0387
Photo of Ariella Rachel Benji Beyzer, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist
Ariella Rachel Benji Beyzer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90035  (Online Only)
I have experience working with clients from many diverse backgrounds. I spent a few years working in addiction treatment and have worked in residential treatment centers helping clients struggling with drug, alcohol, and gambling addictions through a 12 step lens. During the pandemic, I pivoted my career path and began focusing on clients struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, major life transitions, and parenthood struggles. I have also worked with clients struggling with ADHD to both process the diagnosis and work on behavioral changes. I have experience with individuals and couples!
I have experience working with clients from many diverse backgrounds. I spent a few years working in addiction treatment and have worked in residential treatment centers helping clients struggling with drug, alcohol, and gambling addictions through a 12 step lens. During the pandemic, I pivoted my career path and began focusing on clients struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, major life transitions, and parenthood struggles. I have also worked with clients struggling with ADHD to both process the diagnosis and work on behavioral changes. I have experience with individuals and couples!
(310) 879-5952 View (310) 879-5952
Photo of Christine Rivlin, LPCC, Counselor
Christine Rivlin
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026
I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing addiction issues, and eating disorders.
I work primarily with adults who are wanting to manage symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I will be with you on your path to discovery, recovery, and finding the person you would like to become. I approach therapy with a client-centered approach in order to create a safe, comfortable space for you to share and express yourself, and your vulnerabilities. We will explore healthy ways to process your trauma, regulate difficult emotions, and restore broken relationships. I believe the trust built between Client and Therapist is powerful, and necessary in order to help you through your healing journey.
I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing addiction issues, and eating disorders.
I work primarily with adults who are wanting to manage symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I will be with you on your path to discovery, recovery, and finding the person you would like to become. I approach therapy with a client-centered approach in order to create a safe, comfortable space for you to share and express yourself, and your vulnerabilities. We will explore healthy ways to process your trauma, regulate difficult emotions, and restore broken relationships. I believe the trust built between Client and Therapist is powerful, and necessary in order to help you through your healing journey.
(818) 369-3275 View (818) 369-3275
Photo of Brie Ciraulo Rosenfield, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brie Ciraulo Rosenfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
My specialties include adults and young adults, trauma, depression, anxiety, couples, codependency, addiction, family dynamics, post-treatment integration, and parenting.
The parts of us that require healing are often sites of trauma, fear or shame; my therapeutic approach creates a safe space for exploring this often painful territory, with emphasis on providing you with tools and techniques to maintain that sense of safety in both other therapeutic settings and in day-to-day life. My clinical work, is based in expertise and a passion for empowering you to meet and overcome what is holding you back.
My specialties include adults and young adults, trauma, depression, anxiety, couples, codependency, addiction, family dynamics, post-treatment integration, and parenting.
The parts of us that require healing are often sites of trauma, fear or shame; my therapeutic approach creates a safe space for exploring this often painful territory, with emphasis on providing you with tools and techniques to maintain that sense of safety in both other therapeutic settings and in day-to-day life. My clinical work, is based in expertise and a passion for empowering you to meet and overcome what is holding you back.
(424) 610-8112 View (424) 610-8112
Photo of Claudia Santorelli-Bates, Marriage & Family Therapist
Claudia Santorelli-Bates
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90011  (Online Only)
Trained at Beit T'Shuvah, a residential addiction treatment center, I have worked with recovery communities of all types.
Covid times are hard and complicated for all of us. Whether you’re looking for a new therapist or it’s your first time in therapy, together we can learn new ways to navigate our expectations and feelings during this time. Each of our experiences are unique, complex, and personal. Whether you are dealing with addiction, relationships, trauma, or the general stress of living in today's modern world - therapy is the right choice. Being open to getting help is the first step.
Trained at Beit T'Shuvah, a residential addiction treatment center, I have worked with recovery communities of all types.
Covid times are hard and complicated for all of us. Whether you’re looking for a new therapist or it’s your first time in therapy, together we can learn new ways to navigate our expectations and feelings during this time. Each of our experiences are unique, complex, and personal. Whether you are dealing with addiction, relationships, trauma, or the general stress of living in today's modern world - therapy is the right choice. Being open to getting help is the first step.
(424) 238-6765 View (424) 238-6765
Photo of Brian X Dunphey, MS, JD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brian X Dunphey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, JD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90069
I specialize in treating persons with Eating Disorders, Substance Use & Problem Sex Behavior from achieving abstinence to expanding fulfilling recovered lives.
I have over 12 years experience working in residential, intensive outpatient & outpatient settings, with people living successfully with mood disorders, substance abuse & dependence, disordered eating, and creating meaningful sense of interpersonal & relational patterns. My career has afforded me the privilege to work with young adults, professionals and aging adults throughout the Southern California area. I believe that as my clients, you know intuitively how you wish to grow and it's my job to listen with care so you can determine a route, means and hope to navigate a hopeful worthwhile path. I work hard with you in charge.
I specialize in treating persons with Eating Disorders, Substance Use & Problem Sex Behavior from achieving abstinence to expanding fulfilling recovered lives.
I have over 12 years experience working in residential, intensive outpatient & outpatient settings, with people living successfully with mood disorders, substance abuse & dependence, disordered eating, and creating meaningful sense of interpersonal & relational patterns. My career has afforded me the privilege to work with young adults, professionals and aging adults throughout the Southern California area. I believe that as my clients, you know intuitively how you wish to grow and it's my job to listen with care so you can determine a route, means and hope to navigate a hopeful worthwhile path. I work hard with you in charge.
(949) 541-8740 View (949) 541-8740
Photo of Christina Marie Ortiz, PsyD, Psychologist
Christina Marie Ortiz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064  (Online Only)
My expertise includes PTSD/trauma, addiction, depression, and anxiety.
Are you looking to improve your mental health, relationships, and quality of life? Has addiction, depression, or anxiety taken over your life? My goal for everyone coming to me for therapy is to help create that lasting and meaningful change they seek. I provide you with ready-to-use skills to reduce overwhelming feelings, recover from past hurts and traumas, disengage from unhealthy patterns of behavior, and find freedom. Together we work to strengthen your self-awareness, self-worth, self-compassion, and acceptance thus empowering you to act on what you most value in this life.
My expertise includes PTSD/trauma, addiction, depression, and anxiety.
Are you looking to improve your mental health, relationships, and quality of life? Has addiction, depression, or anxiety taken over your life? My goal for everyone coming to me for therapy is to help create that lasting and meaningful change they seek. I provide you with ready-to-use skills to reduce overwhelming feelings, recover from past hurts and traumas, disengage from unhealthy patterns of behavior, and find freedom. Together we work to strengthen your self-awareness, self-worth, self-compassion, and acceptance thus empowering you to act on what you most value in this life.
(310) 464-2298 View (310) 464-2298
Photo of Alexander Bacher, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Alexander Bacher
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066
I specialize in working with dual-diagnosis individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and addiction, as well as family members and loved ones who have been affected.
Although addiction and dual-diagnosis are my areas of specialty, I work with clients struggling with any form of mental illness and suffering in life. By working with individuals, couples, and families, I help to relieve suffering and position clients to thrive in ways they never before imagined possible, such as actualizing full potential and dreams in careers, relationships, and life. With every client, my goal is to help both the client and their family achieve health and wellbeing, while living a life full of meaning, purpose, and passion.
I specialize in working with dual-diagnosis individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and addiction, as well as family members and loved ones who have been affected.
Although addiction and dual-diagnosis are my areas of specialty, I work with clients struggling with any form of mental illness and suffering in life. By working with individuals, couples, and families, I help to relieve suffering and position clients to thrive in ways they never before imagined possible, such as actualizing full potential and dreams in careers, relationships, and life. With every client, my goal is to help both the client and their family achieve health and wellbeing, while living a life full of meaning, purpose, and passion.
(310) 361-2402 View (310) 361-2402
Photo of Kenneth Starr - Bicycle Health, MD
Bicycle Health
MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
We are committed to helping patients lead fulfilling and opioid-free lives, and we’ve already helped thousands of patients take their lives back from addiction.
Bicycle Health exists to treat all patients with opioid use disorder. Many people who have been taking opioids can become dependent on these substances, and opioids can start to take control of their life. They have cravings, think about opioids all the time, and are unable to fulfill their daily responsibilities, like going to work or taking care of friends and family. It becomes an “all consuming disease”. Anyone struggling with opioid use disorder who is seeking convenient, discreet, non-judgmental treatment may be a good fit for Bicycle Health.
We are committed to helping patients lead fulfilling and opioid-free lives, and we’ve already helped thousands of patients take their lives back from addiction.
Bicycle Health exists to treat all patients with opioid use disorder. Many people who have been taking opioids can become dependent on these substances, and opioids can start to take control of their life. They have cravings, think about opioids all the time, and are unable to fulfill their daily responsibilities, like going to work or taking care of friends and family. It becomes an “all consuming disease”. Anyone struggling with opioid use disorder who is seeking convenient, discreet, non-judgmental treatment may be a good fit for Bicycle Health.
(562) 568-7678 View (562) 568-7678
Photo of Adam Mindel, MA, CADC-II, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Adam Mindel
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, CADC-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Whether it is you or your loved one that feels lost, with over 16 years of personal sobriety I know first hand that addiction is not hopeless .
Interventionist and Sober Coach with over 20,000 hours of specialization in addiction. Over the last 15 years I have helped thousands of individuals and families suffering from issues of substance abuse. Past Family Program Director, and Clinical Director for one of the nations largest charities specializing in addiction. At current, specialized practice helping families and individuals in crisis. CEO-Founder of Recover Integrity, extended care treatment for men www.recoverintegrity.com
Whether it is you or your loved one that feels lost, with over 16 years of personal sobriety I know first hand that addiction is not hopeless .
Interventionist and Sober Coach with over 20,000 hours of specialization in addiction. Over the last 15 years I have helped thousands of individuals and families suffering from issues of substance abuse. Past Family Program Director, and Clinical Director for one of the nations largest charities specializing in addiction. At current, specialized practice helping families and individuals in crisis. CEO-Founder of Recover Integrity, extended care treatment for men www.recoverintegrity.com
(310) 912-3476 View (310) 912-3476
Photo of Frances Cocksedge, MS, AMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Frances Cocksedge
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90039
I specialize in EMDR Trauma Processing, Adolescent Mental Health, Art Therapy, and Addiction.
I work with teens, children, and adults struggling with unresolved trauma, relational issues, existential fear, grief, gender dysphoria, self-harm, addiction, anxiety, ADHD, and depression. I work from a psychodynamic lens, which means looking at my client’s past as a means of informing the present and helping them discover the unconscious blind spots that unknowingly contribute to their distress. I am passionate about helping to reconcile past trauma such as abuse, bullying, oppression, and toxic relationships. I also work with families and couples stuck in destructive patterns and having the same fight over and over.
I specialize in EMDR Trauma Processing, Adolescent Mental Health, Art Therapy, and Addiction.
I work with teens, children, and adults struggling with unresolved trauma, relational issues, existential fear, grief, gender dysphoria, self-harm, addiction, anxiety, ADHD, and depression. I work from a psychodynamic lens, which means looking at my client’s past as a means of informing the present and helping them discover the unconscious blind spots that unknowingly contribute to their distress. I am passionate about helping to reconcile past trauma such as abuse, bullying, oppression, and toxic relationships. I also work with families and couples stuck in destructive patterns and having the same fight over and over.
(323) 863-8346 View (323) 863-8346
Photo of David Leong, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Leong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90018
I utilize various tactics and techniques to help you learn about your gambling addiction, identify triggers and urges, develop new and healthy coping mechanisms, and provide emotional support to deal with the repercussions of gambling disorder.
I specialize in the treatment of Gambling disorder. After struggling with my own gambling addiction, I went to back to school to earn my Masters in Social Work to help other problem gamblers do the same; quit gambling for good. Since then, I have dedicated my social work career to helping individuals and family's affected by gambling disorder. I utilize my clinical and personal experience to help you fight your gambling addiction.
I utilize various tactics and techniques to help you learn about your gambling addiction, identify triggers and urges, develop new and healthy coping mechanisms, and provide emotional support to deal with the repercussions of gambling disorder.
I specialize in the treatment of Gambling disorder. After struggling with my own gambling addiction, I went to back to school to earn my Masters in Social Work to help other problem gamblers do the same; quit gambling for good. Since then, I have dedicated my social work career to helping individuals and family's affected by gambling disorder. I utilize my clinical and personal experience to help you fight your gambling addiction.
(213) 583-5993 View (213) 583-5993
Photo of Loesha Zeviar-Vega, LMFT, CATC-IV, Marriage & Family Therapist
Loesha Zeviar-Vega
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CATC-IV
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027
Pragmatically addressing the underlying core issues as a way of truly becoming free from the maladaptive coping strategies, obsessive thinking and compulsive behaviors, which are active addiction.
Loesha is a LMFT with decades of direct hands-on experience working in the fields of substance abuse and mental health, both as a clinician providing one on one therapy and facilitating groups, as a program manager, director and administrator. Loesha takes pride in providing excellent care for her clients by being supportive, proactive, caring and honest.
Pragmatically addressing the underlying core issues as a way of truly becoming free from the maladaptive coping strategies, obsessive thinking and compulsive behaviors, which are active addiction.
Loesha is a LMFT with decades of direct hands-on experience working in the fields of substance abuse and mental health, both as a clinician providing one on one therapy and facilitating groups, as a program manager, director and administrator. Loesha takes pride in providing excellent care for her clients by being supportive, proactive, caring and honest.
(213) 568-0501 View (213) 568-0501
Photo of Walter Greenberg, PhD, Psychologist
Walter Greenberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
This can result in damaged relationships, substance abuse and isolation.
Are you tired of starting each day depressed, stressed, or scared? The simple, but difficult act of calling for help, is certain to begin to decrease those negative feelings. In therapy I don't just sit and listen. It is an interactive process of listening, talking and questioning. The purpose is to decrease pain and suffering, increase understanding and promote growth and change. First is a careful examination of your current situation as well as some review of your life and family history. This assessment allows us to see your strengths and vulnerabilities so we can outline a successful strategy.
This can result in damaged relationships, substance abuse and isolation.
Are you tired of starting each day depressed, stressed, or scared? The simple, but difficult act of calling for help, is certain to begin to decrease those negative feelings. In therapy I don't just sit and listen. It is an interactive process of listening, talking and questioning. The purpose is to decrease pain and suffering, increase understanding and promote growth and change. First is a careful examination of your current situation as well as some review of your life and family history. This assessment allows us to see your strengths and vulnerabilities so we can outline a successful strategy.
(310) 494-2981 View (310) 494-2981
Photo of Allison Weiss, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison Weiss
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
I specialize in sexuality and have successfully worked with clients to help them heal from betrayal trauma, erectile struggles, acting out with porn, love addiction, exploration of sexual identity, and compulsive sexual behavior. I provide support and interventions that create healthy coping skills. I work with clients that are struggling from anxiety, depression, and trauma. My goal is to support individuals, couples, and families to heal from their past and create a life that is in alignment with their current goals and values.
I specialize in sexuality and have successfully worked with clients to help them heal from betrayal trauma, erectile struggles, acting out with porn, love addiction, exploration of sexual identity, and compulsive sexual behavior. I provide support and interventions that create healthy coping skills. I work with clients that are struggling from anxiety, depression, and trauma. My goal is to support individuals, couples, and families to heal from their past and create a life that is in alignment with their current goals and values.
(818) 369-3094 View (818) 369-3094
Photo of Claudia Chandler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Claudia Chandler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90049
I specialize in working with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship difficulties.
Feel empowered now. It's hard to know when to look for help. Whether it's the loss of a loved one, relationship difficulties, or persistent feelings of sadness and anxiety, sometimes it can be too much. As a therapist, I've worked collaboratively with individuals, couples, and families for over a decade to explore current problems and develop solutions.
I specialize in working with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship difficulties.
Feel empowered now. It's hard to know when to look for help. Whether it's the loss of a loved one, relationship difficulties, or persistent feelings of sadness and anxiety, sometimes it can be too much. As a therapist, I've worked collaboratively with individuals, couples, and families for over a decade to explore current problems and develop solutions.
(323) 716-0403 View (323) 716-0403
Photo of Anthony Santich, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Anthony Santich
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Is anxiety, depression, stress, or substance use interfering with your ability to live a meaningful life? Are you feeling lonely, empty or unfulfilled? The goal of therapy is to facilitate personal growth and help you improve your life. I believe there is no one-size-fits all approach to therapy, so this can take many shapes and forms depending on your needs. Whether you're looking to build self-awareness, strengthen your relationships, change your unwanted habits, better manage your stress or just feel better emotionally - I am here to help!
Is anxiety, depression, stress, or substance use interfering with your ability to live a meaningful life? Are you feeling lonely, empty or unfulfilled? The goal of therapy is to facilitate personal growth and help you improve your life. I believe there is no one-size-fits all approach to therapy, so this can take many shapes and forms depending on your needs. Whether you're looking to build self-awareness, strengthen your relationships, change your unwanted habits, better manage your stress or just feel better emotionally - I am here to help!
(424) 351-1083 View (424) 351-1083
Photo of Jennifer Bieler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Bieler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Hi, I'm currently accepting new clients. Glad you're here & please know you are not alone. Therapy is great place for any person, no matter how small or big of an issue you are going through. Therapy is like going to the gym but for your mind & soul. I specialize in working with trauma & addictions along with relationships, substance use, identity, sexuality, eating disorders, mood disorders, BPD, ADHD, & ASD. As a queer therapist, I work closely with my LGBQ+ community and Trans & gender diverse people. My goal is to be here for you in the way you need, support you, and help you reach your goals.
Hi, I'm currently accepting new clients. Glad you're here & please know you are not alone. Therapy is great place for any person, no matter how small or big of an issue you are going through. Therapy is like going to the gym but for your mind & soul. I specialize in working with trauma & addictions along with relationships, substance use, identity, sexuality, eating disorders, mood disorders, BPD, ADHD, & ASD. As a queer therapist, I work closely with my LGBQ+ community and Trans & gender diverse people. My goal is to be here for you in the way you need, support you, and help you reach your goals.
(925) 452-4882 View (925) 452-4882
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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.