Addiction Therapists in Mill Valley, CA

Photo of Cassandra Beck, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Mill Valley, CA
Cassandra Beck
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94941
I also provide individual therapy to teens and adults, specializing in substance use, codependency, and working with high achievers.
To those navigating the complexities of parenting, carrying the weight of past hurts, or striving to find harmony in their relationships, I see you. I specialize in supporting parents and caregivers concerned about their teenager's behavior and those looking to improve family relationships and reduce conflict. As a family therapist, I tackle various family challenges like addiction, disordered eating, and teen behavior. I assist with challenging transitions, supporting neurodivergent families, healing intergenerational trauma, and addressing burnout in high-achieving families.
I also provide individual therapy to teens and adults, specializing in substance use, codependency, and working with high achievers.
To those navigating the complexities of parenting, carrying the weight of past hurts, or striving to find harmony in their relationships, I see you. I specialize in supporting parents and caregivers concerned about their teenager's behavior and those looking to improve family relationships and reduce conflict. As a family therapist, I tackle various family challenges like addiction, disordered eating, and teen behavior. I assist with challenging transitions, supporting neurodivergent families, healing intergenerational trauma, and addressing burnout in high-achieving families.
(415) 450-0517 View (415) 450-0517
Photo of Sharon Valentino, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mill Valley, CA
Sharon Valentino
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, CHT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94941
I help people deal with it successfully and help find better outcomes with results oriented support for stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, addiction, coping, panic attacks, low self-esteem, co-occurring disorders, PTSD, grief/loss - & more.
Are you having challenges that rob you of the joy and success you deserve? Are you as happy as you want to be? Is your life working out the way you want & expected it to? We all cope with stressors in different ways. I help people deal with stress more successfully with caring, + the powerful tools that therapy provides, to achieve results & solutions.Therapy isn't only for people with problems, who are depressed or anxious. Your therapy is an important tool to improve your life, happiness, relationships, well being, & self awareness - helping you change habits or establish healthier ones.
I help people deal with it successfully and help find better outcomes with results oriented support for stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, addiction, coping, panic attacks, low self-esteem, co-occurring disorders, PTSD, grief/loss - & more.
Are you having challenges that rob you of the joy and success you deserve? Are you as happy as you want to be? Is your life working out the way you want & expected it to? We all cope with stressors in different ways. I help people deal with stress more successfully with caring, + the powerful tools that therapy provides, to achieve results & solutions.Therapy isn't only for people with problems, who are depressed or anxious. Your therapy is an important tool to improve your life, happiness, relationships, well being, & self awareness - helping you change habits or establish healthier ones.
(415) 548-9998 View (415) 548-9998
Photo of Kim Kokoska, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mill Valley, CA
Kim Kokoska
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mill Valley, CA 94941
My practice includes a depth of experience working with adolescents and their families, people recovering from addiction and dual-diagnosis individuals.
Your peace and healing are the focus of my practice. Seeing into people's hearts and watching them grow and strengthen is my greatest joy. Some of the therapeutic tools I use to support you on your journey towards emotional well being include cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, Gestalt and Post-modern therapies, motivational interviewing and somatic experiencing.
My practice includes a depth of experience working with adolescents and their families, people recovering from addiction and dual-diagnosis individuals.
Your peace and healing are the focus of my practice. Seeing into people's hearts and watching them grow and strengthen is my greatest joy. Some of the therapeutic tools I use to support you on your journey towards emotional well being include cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, Gestalt and Post-modern therapies, motivational interviewing and somatic experiencing.
(415) 801-3490 View (415) 801-3490
Photo of Ronald Max Allen Yusim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mill Valley, CA
Ronald Max Allen Yusim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94941
The majority of my therapy practice is as an Addiction Couple's Therapist. I offer Private Intensive Weekend Retreats. These are 16-hour workshops that take place in my office in Mill Valley on one reserved weekend. We work privately (just the 3 of us) for two and a half days breaking down your communication issues and learning how to repair and resolve conflicts.
The majority of my therapy practice is as an Addiction Couple's Therapist. I offer Private Intensive Weekend Retreats. These are 16-hour workshops that take place in my office in Mill Valley on one reserved weekend. We work privately (just the 3 of us) for two and a half days breaking down your communication issues and learning how to repair and resolve conflicts.
(415) 877-6907 View (415) 877-6907
Photo of Recovery Without Walls in Mill Valley, CA
Recovery Without Walls
MD
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94941
The Recovery Without Walls approach transcends the current treatment model for addiction and chronic pain. We integrate pharmacological expertise, personalized care, and tireless patient advocacy to promote healing that extends through all aspects of your life.
The Recovery Without Walls approach transcends the current treatment model for addiction and chronic pain. We integrate pharmacological expertise, personalized care, and tireless patient advocacy to promote healing that extends through all aspects of your life.
(628) 200-3655 View (628) 200-3655
Photo of Helen Star, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mill Valley, CA
Helen Star
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94941
I work primarily with stress, addiction, anxiety and trauma.
Sometimes anxiety, depression and trauma responses impact your relationships and work. My approach is to provide deep, abiding support to help you come back to center, allowing a more resilient self to emerge. Together we will build on your strengths to address life challenges with the aim that the consultation room is a safe space where actual life strategies are developed. You and I can address issues ranging from phase of life challenges, Work stress, relationship conflicts, trauma resolution, depression and anxiety management or the impacts of addictive processes in your life.
I work primarily with stress, addiction, anxiety and trauma.
Sometimes anxiety, depression and trauma responses impact your relationships and work. My approach is to provide deep, abiding support to help you come back to center, allowing a more resilient self to emerge. Together we will build on your strengths to address life challenges with the aim that the consultation room is a safe space where actual life strategies are developed. You and I can address issues ranging from phase of life challenges, Work stress, relationship conflicts, trauma resolution, depression and anxiety management or the impacts of addictive processes in your life.
(415) 237-6307 View (415) 237-6307
Photo of Jill M Sabotka, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mill Valley, CA
Jill M Sabotka
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94941
I am trained in body/mind therapy which helps clients re-connect to the innate wisdom of the body, usually severed by addiction, co-dependency and chronic struggle.
Do you feel like life is always overwhelming? Do you feel alone? Are you using distractions (substances, food, devices) to soothe yourself which is causing more suffering instead of bringing relief? Our culture today pushes for faster, better, stronger which can be painful. It leads to patterns and behaviors that cut us off from experiencing freedom, joy and ease. I work with teenagers and adults who have found that their "old ways" are more causing more suffering than comfort and they are ready to open to something new.
I am trained in body/mind therapy which helps clients re-connect to the innate wisdom of the body, usually severed by addiction, co-dependency and chronic struggle.
Do you feel like life is always overwhelming? Do you feel alone? Are you using distractions (substances, food, devices) to soothe yourself which is causing more suffering instead of bringing relief? Our culture today pushes for faster, better, stronger which can be painful. It leads to patterns and behaviors that cut us off from experiencing freedom, joy and ease. I work with teenagers and adults who have found that their "old ways" are more causing more suffering than comfort and they are ready to open to something new.
(802) 768-7740 View (802) 768-7740
Photo of Benjamin Russack, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mill Valley, CA
Benjamin Russack
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mill Valley, CA 94941
In the short term, I am directive and structured, and will work with you, your spouse or your child to put out any "fires" --acute stressors such as job loss, divorce, heartbreak or addiction issues need to be resolved before the deeper work of therapy can begin.
I tend to be quite direct in my approach and begin therapy with a combination of focused goal and solution oriented work. As the therapy proceeds, I then branch out into deeper issues concerning the unconscious, dream work, unresolved trauma and more. Additionally, I specialize and am not limited to, treating depression, anxiety and chemical dependency. Lastly, I also enjoy working with adolescents, couples and families. ** I host a podcast called "Look, Just Tell Me What To Do" which addresses issues related to mental health which is available here https://lookjusttellmewhattodo.podbean.com/ or on most podcast platforms.
In the short term, I am directive and structured, and will work with you, your spouse or your child to put out any "fires" --acute stressors such as job loss, divorce, heartbreak or addiction issues need to be resolved before the deeper work of therapy can begin.
I tend to be quite direct in my approach and begin therapy with a combination of focused goal and solution oriented work. As the therapy proceeds, I then branch out into deeper issues concerning the unconscious, dream work, unresolved trauma and more. Additionally, I specialize and am not limited to, treating depression, anxiety and chemical dependency. Lastly, I also enjoy working with adolescents, couples and families. ** I host a podcast called "Look, Just Tell Me What To Do" which addresses issues related to mental health which is available here https://lookjusttellmewhattodo.podbean.com/ or on most podcast platforms.
(415) 735-3508 View (415) 735-3508
Photo of Mary Kennedy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Mill Valley, CA
Mary Kennedy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94941
My expertise includes treatment of alcoholics and addicts; family recovery; codependency; trauma and the prevention of addiction in children and teens.
I am a licensed psychotherapist who is deeply committed to supporting those whose lives have been impacted by alcohol or drugs. I am compassionate, practical, engaged and genuine. If you have struggled or are still struggling, I can help. If you are worried about someone who struggles, I can help. Even if you are unsure of what you may need, I can support you. I strive to develop meaningful therapeutic relationships that allow for understanding, grieving, healing and growth. Those who find help may be children, adult children, spouses, partners, parents, grandparents, couples, women or men.
My expertise includes treatment of alcoholics and addicts; family recovery; codependency; trauma and the prevention of addiction in children and teens.
I am a licensed psychotherapist who is deeply committed to supporting those whose lives have been impacted by alcohol or drugs. I am compassionate, practical, engaged and genuine. If you have struggled or are still struggling, I can help. If you are worried about someone who struggles, I can help. Even if you are unsure of what you may need, I can support you. I strive to develop meaningful therapeutic relationships that allow for understanding, grieving, healing and growth. Those who find help may be children, adult children, spouses, partners, parents, grandparents, couples, women or men.
(415) 689-1690 View (415) 689-1690
Photo of Dylan Kersh, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mill Valley, CA
Dylan Kersh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94941  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I've discovered that I have a unique ability to work with men, especially those struggling with depression, anxiety, and/or addiction.
Through authenticity and a wide range of clinical experience, I have cultivated a unique therapeutic style that has helped many of my clients to heal and thrive. It is my mission to create a private practice accessible to everyone in our community where clients feel safe to open up, take risks, be vulnerable, explore themselves, and grow. I've worked with individuals, families, and couples from a diverse spectrum of backgrounds and found that with an open heart, a sincere desire to connect, and clinical integrity, I can affect real change in my clients' lives.
I've discovered that I have a unique ability to work with men, especially those struggling with depression, anxiety, and/or addiction.
Through authenticity and a wide range of clinical experience, I have cultivated a unique therapeutic style that has helped many of my clients to heal and thrive. It is my mission to create a private practice accessible to everyone in our community where clients feel safe to open up, take risks, be vulnerable, explore themselves, and grow. I've worked with individuals, families, and couples from a diverse spectrum of backgrounds and found that with an open heart, a sincere desire to connect, and clinical integrity, I can affect real change in my clients' lives.
(510) 901-3771 View (510) 901-3771
Photo of Haleh Kashani, Psychologist in Mill Valley, CA
Haleh Kashani
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mill Valley, CA 94941
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders ranging from Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, ARFID, and Bing Eating Disorder to chronic dieting and weight related issues, as well as substance abuse and addictions with adults and teens.
I would like take this opportunity to provide you with some information about myself and my practice.I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have been in practice for over 30 years. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults in individual, family and group therapy settings. I treat wide array of conditions, from stress management and normal life issues and interpersonal and family problems to more serious conditions such as depression, anxiety and other psychological problems.
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders ranging from Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, ARFID, and Bing Eating Disorder to chronic dieting and weight related issues, as well as substance abuse and addictions with adults and teens.
I would like take this opportunity to provide you with some information about myself and my practice.I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have been in practice for over 30 years. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults in individual, family and group therapy settings. I treat wide array of conditions, from stress management and normal life issues and interpersonal and family problems to more serious conditions such as depression, anxiety and other psychological problems.
(415) 697-3942 View (415) 697-3942
Photo of Patricia F Ross, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mill Valley, CA
Patricia F Ross
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mill Valley, CA 94941  (Online Only)
Do you suffer from depression, anxiety, relationship or job-related issues? Psychotherapy can be extremely helpful. For 25 years I've worked with people struggling with these problems as well as substance abuse, recovery, women's issues and aging. "Patricia Ross is one of the smartest, warmest, most thoughtful, present, and trustworthy therapists it's been my pleasure to teach. She is real. From her experiences in living (as a wife, mother, musician, and lifelong learner) she has gained a significant measure of wisdom. I have referred patients to her before and will do so again." David Wallin, PhD (Author of Attachment in Psychotherapy)
Do you suffer from depression, anxiety, relationship or job-related issues? Psychotherapy can be extremely helpful. For 25 years I've worked with people struggling with these problems as well as substance abuse, recovery, women's issues and aging. "Patricia Ross is one of the smartest, warmest, most thoughtful, present, and trustworthy therapists it's been my pleasure to teach. She is real. From her experiences in living (as a wife, mother, musician, and lifelong learner) she has gained a significant measure of wisdom. I have referred patients to her before and will do so again." David Wallin, PhD (Author of Attachment in Psychotherapy)
(415) 702-0932 View (415) 702-0932
Photo of Mary Rutledge Faucette, Psychologist in Mill Valley, CA
Mary Rutledge Faucette
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mill Valley, CA 94941
Welcome! I look forward to speaking with you about my practice and the services that I offer. I provide warm and supportive therapy in which the individuals I work with feel cared for and understood. I work collaboratively with you to reach your treatment goals, I specialize in Addiction, Dual Diagnosis(Co-Occurring Psychiatric and Substance Use Disorders), Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, and Domestic Violence. I provide 24/7 availability for current clients who are in crisis.
Welcome! I look forward to speaking with you about my practice and the services that I offer. I provide warm and supportive therapy in which the individuals I work with feel cared for and understood. I work collaboratively with you to reach your treatment goals, I specialize in Addiction, Dual Diagnosis(Co-Occurring Psychiatric and Substance Use Disorders), Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, and Domestic Violence. I provide 24/7 availability for current clients who are in crisis.
(415) 562-0272 View (415) 562-0272
Photo of California Center for Change, Psychologist in Mill Valley, CA
California Center for Change
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mill Valley, CA 94941  (Online Only)
If previous attempts at stopping substance use have failed or if you want to learn to manage your use rather than abstain, call us for a free phone consultation. We approach addiction as a biopsychosocial phenomenon and can help you understand the biological, emotional, and behavioral factors of your drug use using evidence-based interventions. Our therapeutic style is compassionate and non-judgmental but we will also be direct and challenge you to deeply examine your choices. We strive to create a safe, confidential environment where you feel comfortable exploring your choices.
If previous attempts at stopping substance use have failed or if you want to learn to manage your use rather than abstain, call us for a free phone consultation. We approach addiction as a biopsychosocial phenomenon and can help you understand the biological, emotional, and behavioral factors of your drug use using evidence-based interventions. Our therapeutic style is compassionate and non-judgmental but we will also be direct and challenge you to deeply examine your choices. We strive to create a safe, confidential environment where you feel comfortable exploring your choices.
(415) 969-3982 View (415) 969-3982
Photo of Dr. Sasha Avanesov, Psychologist in Mill Valley, CA
Dr. Sasha Avanesov
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mill Valley, CA 94941
I have over 16 years of expertise in residential and outpatient settings at one of the foremost South Bay addiction treatment centers.
Whether you are experiencing anxiety, stress, relationship issues, coping with trauma, screaming at the world gone mad, seeking answers to spiritual or existential questions, or pursuing personal growth, I will work hard to empower you. Together, we will explore, clarify, and address issues at the root of your concerns, clearing a path towards inner peace.
I have over 16 years of expertise in residential and outpatient settings at one of the foremost South Bay addiction treatment centers.
Whether you are experiencing anxiety, stress, relationship issues, coping with trauma, screaming at the world gone mad, seeking answers to spiritual or existential questions, or pursuing personal growth, I will work hard to empower you. Together, we will explore, clarify, and address issues at the root of your concerns, clearing a path towards inner peace.
(510) 405-7319 View (510) 405-7319
Photo of Kathleen Louise Someah, Psychologist in Mill Valley, CA
Kathleen Louise Someah
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94942
Although I have a particular affinity for treating body image and food-related disturbances, I also have experience addressing concerns related to addiction, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, among others.
I am especially passionate about treating eating disorders. I see clients of varying age groups with a particular focus on adolescents, transitional age youth and young adults. Changing one's behaviors and psychological states is a process and I aim to meet clients where they are at in terms of their readiness for change. In addition to specific graduate training and many years working at Stanford Health's inpatient eating disorder unit, I also have lived experience dealing with disordered eating, and find that my own recovery journey benefits clients and serves as a reminder that recovery is attainable.
Although I have a particular affinity for treating body image and food-related disturbances, I also have experience addressing concerns related to addiction, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, among others.
I am especially passionate about treating eating disorders. I see clients of varying age groups with a particular focus on adolescents, transitional age youth and young adults. Changing one's behaviors and psychological states is a process and I aim to meet clients where they are at in terms of their readiness for change. In addition to specific graduate training and many years working at Stanford Health's inpatient eating disorder unit, I also have lived experience dealing with disordered eating, and find that my own recovery journey benefits clients and serves as a reminder that recovery is attainable.
(628) 200-4079 View (628) 200-4079
Photo of Scott James Davis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mill Valley, CA
Scott James Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CEC
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94941
I see clients in my Mill Valley office or on Zoom. Over 20 years experience supporting diverse people in creating more Passionate, Engaged and Deeply Meaningful lives. I help people become Happier, Calmer and more Empowered in the face of life's many changes. In a compassionate and accepting environment, I welcome all that is going on for you right now, and support you in transforming problematic situations and patterns (including addiction) into a healthier more fulfilling life. Sometimes a bit of unconditional support is what we need to work through difficulties and get to a better place.
I see clients in my Mill Valley office or on Zoom. Over 20 years experience supporting diverse people in creating more Passionate, Engaged and Deeply Meaningful lives. I help people become Happier, Calmer and more Empowered in the face of life's many changes. In a compassionate and accepting environment, I welcome all that is going on for you right now, and support you in transforming problematic situations and patterns (including addiction) into a healthier more fulfilling life. Sometimes a bit of unconditional support is what we need to work through difficulties and get to a better place.
(415) 289-0888 View (415) 289-0888
Photo of Bruce Chernack, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mill Valley, CA
Bruce Chernack
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94941
Need help with your son? Are you a young man who needs help with ongoing anxiety, depression, or substance abuse issues? I have been working with adolescent boys and young men for over 25 years. Anger, depression, socialization, isolation, substance use/abuse, separation, realtionships, or just plain growing up are some of the issues. As a parent, or a young man yourself, you want to do your best to help you and your family navigate through our complicated and ever changing culture. I connect with my clients through humor, knowledge of a young person’s culture, and a confidential relationship.
Need help with your son? Are you a young man who needs help with ongoing anxiety, depression, or substance abuse issues? I have been working with adolescent boys and young men for over 25 years. Anger, depression, socialization, isolation, substance use/abuse, separation, realtionships, or just plain growing up are some of the issues. As a parent, or a young man yourself, you want to do your best to help you and your family navigate through our complicated and ever changing culture. I connect with my clients through humor, knowledge of a young person’s culture, and a confidential relationship.
(415) 799-8237 View (415) 799-8237
Photo of Julie Austin in Mill Valley, CA
Julie Austin
PsyD, CLC
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94941  (Online Only)
I provide a warm, non-judgmental and practical coaching environment. My aim is to quickly help you identify the most pressing issues, then develop the most useful approaches to resolving them. My style is interactive and supportive, identifying important patterns and offering concrete feedback. I offer life coaching to individuals, couples and families across a wide range of issues, and my education and training make me uniquely qualified to help people working through life transitions, parenting dilemmas, chronic health conditions, emotional instability, addiction, and grief/bereavement (for human and companion animal loss).
I provide a warm, non-judgmental and practical coaching environment. My aim is to quickly help you identify the most pressing issues, then develop the most useful approaches to resolving them. My style is interactive and supportive, identifying important patterns and offering concrete feedback. I offer life coaching to individuals, couples and families across a wide range of issues, and my education and training make me uniquely qualified to help people working through life transitions, parenting dilemmas, chronic health conditions, emotional instability, addiction, and grief/bereavement (for human and companion animal loss).
(415) 480-3644 View (415) 480-3644
Photo of Alexander Ochoa, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mill Valley, CA
Alexander Ochoa
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mill Valley, CA 94941
I focus on sports mental health, athletes struggling with fears of re-injury, effective communication, identity loss, anxiety, depression, substance use, life transitions, parenting, and conflict resolution.
Finding a therapist can be difficult, especially finding a therapist who looks like you and can relate to struggles you face with. Being a young male in todayʻs society can be difficult and often times problems are over looked due to the stigma of ʻman upʻ. Being a parent and adjusting to the changes of a growing family, strain on a marriage, issues from childhood impacting parenting can be difficult to identify and reflect on. Being an athlete and finding space to process how issues outside of the sport could be impacting your performance can be outside of your comfort zone because personal or athletic lives tend to be seperate.
I focus on sports mental health, athletes struggling with fears of re-injury, effective communication, identity loss, anxiety, depression, substance use, life transitions, parenting, and conflict resolution.
Finding a therapist can be difficult, especially finding a therapist who looks like you and can relate to struggles you face with. Being a young male in todayʻs society can be difficult and often times problems are over looked due to the stigma of ʻman upʻ. Being a parent and adjusting to the changes of a growing family, strain on a marriage, issues from childhood impacting parenting can be difficult to identify and reflect on. Being an athlete and finding space to process how issues outside of the sport could be impacting your performance can be outside of your comfort zone because personal or athletic lives tend to be seperate.
(510) 900-5394 View (510) 900-5394


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.