Photo of Jim Moakley, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jim Moakley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92701
I've helped individuals, couples, families, and groups, of all ages and from all walks of life, many with severe diagnoses such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, danger to self and to others, substance abuses and addictions of all kinds, domestic violence, sexual abuse, eating disorders, and other challenges.
You deserve to feel happy, healthy, and loved! Your relationships can be the best part of your life, helping you to feel joy, appreciation, and fulfillment...or you can find yourself just going through the motions. In our stressful and demanding world, it is all too easy to disconnect from those who are most important to us; poor communication leads to a lack of understanding, and we become demanding, intolerant, and unforgiving of ourselves and of those who matter most. Instead of sharing quality time together, we spend our energy tearing each other down. Gaining awareness, and learning from the past instead of dwelling on it, are some of the first steps toward moving forward. I find nothing more satisfying than helping people to overcome their obstacles so that they can love and feel loved, accept and feel accepted, and realize that they are truly worthy of all that life has to offer. Since 2009, I've helped my clients become better versions of themselves; let's work together and start turning your possibilities into realities!
I've helped individuals, couples, families, and groups, of all ages and from all walks of life, many with severe diagnoses such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, danger to self and to others, substance abuses and addictions of all kinds, domestic violence, sexual abuse, eating disorders, and other challenges.
You deserve to feel happy, healthy, and loved! Your relationships can be the best part of your life, helping you to feel joy, appreciation, and fulfillment...or you can find yourself just going through the motions. In our stressful and demanding world, it is all too easy to disconnect from those who are most important to us; poor communication leads to a lack of understanding, and we become demanding, intolerant, and unforgiving of ourselves and of those who matter most. Instead of sharing quality time together, we spend our energy tearing each other down. Gaining awareness, and learning from the past instead of dwelling on it, are some of the first steps toward moving forward. I find nothing more satisfying than helping people to overcome their obstacles so that they can love and feel loved, accept and feel accepted, and realize that they are truly worthy of all that life has to offer. Since 2009, I've helped my clients become better versions of themselves; let's work together and start turning your possibilities into realities!
(657) 255-7895 View (657) 255-7895
Photo of Lonnie Mack Duncan, LPC Intern
Lonnie Mack Duncan
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94720
As hard as the work of healing can be, being witnessed, held and guided by another attuned human can help overcome attachment trauma, and addiction, manage triggers, relinquish self-destructive behaviors, alleviate anxiety and stress, and break free from life stagnation.
Your life story is one of resilience, growth, and transformation. You have faced and conquered numerous intricate challenges and traumas throughout your journey. These experiences have shaped you into a survivor who is determined to thrive and help others in their healing journeys. You have a multifaceted identity, which is a testament to your commitment to personal growth!
As hard as the work of healing can be, being witnessed, held and guided by another attuned human can help overcome attachment trauma, and addiction, manage triggers, relinquish self-destructive behaviors, alleviate anxiety and stress, and break free from life stagnation.
Your life story is one of resilience, growth, and transformation. You have faced and conquered numerous intricate challenges and traumas throughout your journey. These experiences have shaped you into a survivor who is determined to thrive and help others in their healing journeys. You have a multifaceted identity, which is a testament to your commitment to personal growth!
(341) 888-6543 View (341) 888-6543
Photo of Henri Koroveshi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Henri Koroveshi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Madera, CA 93636
Hello, I'm Henri Koroveshi, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have helped people with addiction, ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, and have experience working in Military Health Care, Acute Care, Behavioral Health, and Children and Family Welfare. I provide clinical consultation and treatment in an integrated healthcare environment regarding family interactions, sociocultural factors, and community resources. I am skilled in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Strength Based Therapy, and Crisis Intervention.
Hello, I'm Henri Koroveshi, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have helped people with addiction, ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, and have experience working in Military Health Care, Acute Care, Behavioral Health, and Children and Family Welfare. I provide clinical consultation and treatment in an integrated healthcare environment regarding family interactions, sociocultural factors, and community resources. I am skilled in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Strength Based Therapy, and Crisis Intervention.
(559) 364-3992 View (559) 364-3992
Photo of Gabriel Davis, MA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabriel Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92008
I am in the business of making better humans. I am dedicated to supporting people impacted by anxiety, intimacy & communication challenges, grief & loss, depression, non recreational use of subatances, addiction, feeling stuck in life or their relationships. I specialize in addressing issues such as perfectionism, critical self-talk, codependency, and relationship dynamics. My approach is rooted in helping clients reconnect deeply with their authentic selves, fostering renewed health, and rediscovering a sense of purpose and connection. As your Holistic Therapist, I offer practical solutions, guiding you towards tangible results.
I am in the business of making better humans. I am dedicated to supporting people impacted by anxiety, intimacy & communication challenges, grief & loss, depression, non recreational use of subatances, addiction, feeling stuck in life or their relationships. I specialize in addressing issues such as perfectionism, critical self-talk, codependency, and relationship dynamics. My approach is rooted in helping clients reconnect deeply with their authentic selves, fostering renewed health, and rediscovering a sense of purpose and connection. As your Holistic Therapist, I offer practical solutions, guiding you towards tangible results.
(760) 990-3378 View (760) 990-3378
Photo of Jerome Scott, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jerome Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Denair, CA 95316
Hello, I'm Jerome, a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have been extremely successful with providing couples and individual psychotherapy ensuring that each client receives the highest level of therapeutic care. I have helped people with addiction, alcohol use, anger, depression, anxiety, and more. I employ an advanced Cognitive Behavioral therapeutic approach designed to motivate individuals and couples to achieve their treatment plan objectives. As an LMFT for the past nineteen years, I have always been responsible to nurture my client’s aspirations.
Hello, I'm Jerome, a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have been extremely successful with providing couples and individual psychotherapy ensuring that each client receives the highest level of therapeutic care. I have helped people with addiction, alcohol use, anger, depression, anxiety, and more. I employ an advanced Cognitive Behavioral therapeutic approach designed to motivate individuals and couples to achieve their treatment plan objectives. As an LMFT for the past nineteen years, I have always been responsible to nurture my client’s aspirations.
(747) 236-6707 View (747) 236-6707
Photo of Daniel Fisher, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniel Fisher
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Paula, CA 93060
Hello All! My name is Daniel Fisher, and I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have been licensed since 2018, and have professional experience with dual diagnosis adults, substance use, children with autism, school-based counseling, and transitional living for adolescents. Being a marriage and family therapist has given me the opportunity to work with and truly appreciate a variety of different people from all parts of California, & the rest of the United States.
Hello All! My name is Daniel Fisher, and I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have been licensed since 2018, and have professional experience with dual diagnosis adults, substance use, children with autism, school-based counseling, and transitional living for adolescents. Being a marriage and family therapist has given me the opportunity to work with and truly appreciate a variety of different people from all parts of California, & the rest of the United States.
(805) 424-5219 View (805) 424-5219
Photo of Buckeye Network - Buckeye Recovery Network
Buckeye Recovery Network
Verified Verified
Whether it is substance abuse, mental health difficulty or a combination of both, our team of experienced professionals fosters an ecosystem of recovery that is necessary to achieve a long-term sustainable results.
Buckeye Recovery Network was designed to approach recovery with the belief that true transformation begins with evaluating the needs of every individual who chooses to join our program. Our ideal client is someone who understands that recovery is a powerful journey that can lead to a beautiful future of opportunity and self-expression although it takes willingness and honesty to get there. We seek to accept those who are looking for an environment of healing and a family of experts to guide them to a future of endless possibilities.
Whether it is substance abuse, mental health difficulty or a combination of both, our team of experienced professionals fosters an ecosystem of recovery that is necessary to achieve a long-term sustainable results.
Buckeye Recovery Network was designed to approach recovery with the belief that true transformation begins with evaluating the needs of every individual who chooses to join our program. Our ideal client is someone who understands that recovery is a powerful journey that can lead to a beautiful future of opportunity and self-expression although it takes willingness and honesty to get there. We seek to accept those who are looking for an environment of healing and a family of experts to guide them to a future of endless possibilities.
(714) 266-1364 View (714) 266-1364
Photo of Charles Richard Nesbitt, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Charles Richard Nesbitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palm Desert, CA 92211
Waitlist for new clients
I have personal experience with cancer and addiction myself.
I accept insurance through an online platform. Once we connect, I can have them contact you for onboarding. I have listed the insurance plans I accept on this page. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy) certified and EMDR trained. I specialize in trauma work and substance abuse. I have worked in the field of substance abuse treatment since 2008. I am 19 years clean from all substances. I am also a survivor of stage 3 lung cancer. I strive to meet my clients where they are and gently suggest tools to help achieve the change they are looking for. I truly want to help.
I have personal experience with cancer and addiction myself.
I accept insurance through an online platform. Once we connect, I can have them contact you for onboarding. I have listed the insurance plans I accept on this page. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy) certified and EMDR trained. I specialize in trauma work and substance abuse. I have worked in the field of substance abuse treatment since 2008. I am 19 years clean from all substances. I am also a survivor of stage 3 lung cancer. I strive to meet my clients where they are and gently suggest tools to help achieve the change they are looking for. I truly want to help.
(760) 624-3783 View (760) 624-3783
Photo of Brian X Dunphey, MS, JD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brian X Dunphey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, JD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90069
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 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 Francisco Medrano, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Francisco Medrano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beaumont, CA 92223
Hello, my name is Francisco Medrano, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I use a client center approach. Your relationships, goals and healing are important to me. My focus for over 20 years has been working with individual with Substance use Conditions and Anxiety. I also have over 15 years or working with individuals involved in the Justice system. I have calm tone with the focus of being emphatic, sharing hope and sometimes humor. I like to get real with one another as rapport is being built. I believe all people that the ability to set goals for them self, but I believe in refining this profess using SMART goals.
Hello, my name is Francisco Medrano, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I use a client center approach. Your relationships, goals and healing are important to me. My focus for over 20 years has been working with individual with Substance use Conditions and Anxiety. I also have over 15 years or working with individuals involved in the Justice system. I have calm tone with the focus of being emphatic, sharing hope and sometimes humor. I like to get real with one another as rapport is being built. I believe all people that the ability to set goals for them self, but I believe in refining this profess using SMART goals.
(951) 364-1465 View (951) 364-1465
Photo of Daniel Powell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniel Powell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92104
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. I'm comfortable working with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, bi-polar, substance abuse, psychosis, autism spectrum disorders and obsessive compulsive disorder. I implement individual evidenced based interventions designed to positive behavior change. I enjoy working with couples, families, parent training, adults and adolescents.
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. I'm comfortable working with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, bi-polar, substance abuse, psychosis, autism spectrum disorders and obsessive compulsive disorder. I implement individual evidenced based interventions designed to positive behavior change. I enjoy working with couples, families, parent training, adults and adolescents.
(619) 305-0826 View (619) 305-0826
Photo of Timothy G. Walker, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Timothy G. Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Nevada City, CA 95959
I specialize in treating trauma, addiction, relationship issues, parenting, divorce, and along the way, promote exploration of more existential themes such as identity, meaning and purpose.
Life is full of surprises! And the various mind/body states we go through are no different, and, at times, not entirely welcome. Depression. Anxiety. Anger. Numbness. These difficult symptoms (and others) color our experience, and make life difficult! And yet, they are merely the smoke from fires sourced far deeper within the caves of Self. Together, we will follow the various strands of symptoms and sensation to their source. Then we begin to untangle the knots that bind and restrict. Let's release you from those things that are inhibiting you from embracing all this life has to offer.
I specialize in treating trauma, addiction, relationship issues, parenting, divorce, and along the way, promote exploration of more existential themes such as identity, meaning and purpose.
Life is full of surprises! And the various mind/body states we go through are no different, and, at times, not entirely welcome. Depression. Anxiety. Anger. Numbness. These difficult symptoms (and others) color our experience, and make life difficult! And yet, they are merely the smoke from fires sourced far deeper within the caves of Self. Together, we will follow the various strands of symptoms and sensation to their source. Then we begin to untangle the knots that bind and restrict. Let's release you from those things that are inhibiting you from embracing all this life has to offer.
(916) 252-5430 View (916) 252-5430
Photo of Bryan Vasquez, CATCIII, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Bryan Vasquez
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CATCIII
Verified Verified
Struggling with addiction and feel rehab isn’t an option? Leaving your family, job, school and responsibilities for an extended period of time is not always needed to get yourself healthy and on track. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, I know the challenges of this lifestyle. Being caught in the cycle of addiction is hard--feelings of fear, failure, guilt, and shame. You may have tried stopping on your own, only to find yourself engaging in the same unhelpful behavior. Breaking this cycle alone is tough! Counseling may be more effective for you than rehab. I specialize in moderation & abstinence based approaches.
Struggling with addiction and feel rehab isn’t an option? Leaving your family, job, school and responsibilities for an extended period of time is not always needed to get yourself healthy and on track. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, I know the challenges of this lifestyle. Being caught in the cycle of addiction is hard--feelings of fear, failure, guilt, and shame. You may have tried stopping on your own, only to find yourself engaging in the same unhelpful behavior. Breaking this cycle alone is tough! Counseling may be more effective for you than rehab. I specialize in moderation & abstinence based approaches.
(657) 255-5534 View (657) 255-5534
Photo of Robert Garza, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robert Garza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Visalia, CA 93277
I have experience in the fields of mental health and substance abuse that spans services with unique populations: Hispanic families, adults, and children/adolescents in need.
I’m excited to join PATH as a Therapist. I’m a highly experienced Therapist (LCSW) with 20 years of experience. I have worked across various Behavioral Health Programs. I received my bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, and substance abuse from Stanislaus State University and my master’s degree in Social Work from California State University Stanislaus. I also received specialized substance abuse addiction while completing my master’s degree. I was also instrumental in the leadership program bringing the Substance Abuse Program to Stanislaus State University.
I have experience in the fields of mental health and substance abuse that spans services with unique populations: Hispanic families, adults, and children/adolescents in need.
I’m excited to join PATH as a Therapist. I’m a highly experienced Therapist (LCSW) with 20 years of experience. I have worked across various Behavioral Health Programs. I received my bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, and substance abuse from Stanislaus State University and my master’s degree in Social Work from California State University Stanislaus. I also received specialized substance abuse addiction while completing my master’s degree. I was also instrumental in the leadership program bringing the Substance Abuse Program to Stanislaus State University.
(559) 934-5158 View (559) 934-5158
Photo of Tom Buckley, CADCIII, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Tom Buckley
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADCIII
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tom Buckley is the Executive Director of Aspire Counseling San Luis Obispo. Aspire SLO provides Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Services for Teens and Adults in an intensive outpatient setting. Do you or a loved one struggle with depression, anxiety, self harm, substances abuse, addiction issues, etc.? If so, call Aspire SLO at 805-329-5595 to speak with a counselor. To schedule an appointment 24/7 call 888-585-7373. Ask about or free weekly family support group!
Tom Buckley is the Executive Director of Aspire Counseling San Luis Obispo. Aspire SLO provides Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Services for Teens and Adults in an intensive outpatient setting. Do you or a loved one struggle with depression, anxiety, self harm, substances abuse, addiction issues, etc.? If so, call Aspire SLO at 805-329-5595 to speak with a counselor. To schedule an appointment 24/7 call 888-585-7373. Ask about or free weekly family support group!
(805) 549-5989 View (805) 549-5989
Photo of John Mark Kane, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Mark Kane
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Campbell, CA 95008
One guy said to me, I've been on depression medication for 15 years, why am I still depressed? Because your treating symptoms. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, addiction, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, trauma, etc. you see your condition in terms of symptoms. If you want to get better we have to talk about the underlying problems, where it comes from. Mental health problems are rooted in the dysfunction in our relationships or the lack of relational intelligence. Anxious, addicted, depressed people isolate because moving towards relationship has become so painful. Call me, I want to help you have a satisfied life!
One guy said to me, I've been on depression medication for 15 years, why am I still depressed? Because your treating symptoms. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, addiction, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, trauma, etc. you see your condition in terms of symptoms. If you want to get better we have to talk about the underlying problems, where it comes from. Mental health problems are rooted in the dysfunction in our relationships or the lack of relational intelligence. Anxious, addicted, depressed people isolate because moving towards relationship has become so painful. Call me, I want to help you have a satisfied life!
(408) 692-6921 View (408) 692-6921
Photo of Tre'von Peoples, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tre'von Peoples
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redlands, CA 92374
I tend to work usually within a humanistic client-centered approach, where I accept the client for who they are and what they're bringing to session, and we work together to solve/address concerns. Depending on client's concerns, I will utilize different techniques (eclecticism therapy) such as CBT to art therapy to psychodynamic because honestly each person unique without a "one size fits all". I specialize in general mental health, men's issues, adolescent development, depressive symptoms/issues, BIPOC concerns, substance use, LGBTQIA concerns.
I tend to work usually within a humanistic client-centered approach, where I accept the client for who they are and what they're bringing to session, and we work together to solve/address concerns. Depending on client's concerns, I will utilize different techniques (eclecticism therapy) such as CBT to art therapy to psychodynamic because honestly each person unique without a "one size fits all". I specialize in general mental health, men's issues, adolescent development, depressive symptoms/issues, BIPOC concerns, substance use, LGBTQIA concerns.
(909) 340-3855 View (909) 340-3855
Photo of Giorgio Andrea Quittan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Giorgio Andrea Quittan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95126
My specialty is Treating Addiction, PTSD and Trauma.
I am an Italian who has been living in The Bay Area for the last 40 years. I am fluent in English, Italian and Spanish. I have extensive experience and training in Hakomi, Somatic Based Psychotherapy and EMDR. I have more than 15 years of experience with Santa Clara County, Department of Families and Children Services, providing support and services to individuals, children and families who have been involved with the Child Welfare System. I also have 5 years of experience providing therapeutic services at a Medical Hospital Specialized in Treating HIV/AIDS patients who suffer from Addiction, PTSD and Trauma.
My specialty is Treating Addiction, PTSD and Trauma.
I am an Italian who has been living in The Bay Area for the last 40 years. I am fluent in English, Italian and Spanish. I have extensive experience and training in Hakomi, Somatic Based Psychotherapy and EMDR. I have more than 15 years of experience with Santa Clara County, Department of Families and Children Services, providing support and services to individuals, children and families who have been involved with the Child Welfare System. I also have 5 years of experience providing therapeutic services at a Medical Hospital Specialized in Treating HIV/AIDS patients who suffer from Addiction, PTSD and Trauma.
(408) 872-8948 View (408) 872-8948
Photo of Joshua Pelfrey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joshua Pelfrey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93108
My name is Joshua Pelfrey, a licensed clinical social worker. I have been in the counseling field for more than 15 years as both an addiction counselor and clinical social worker. I help individuals and couples with addiction, depression, anxiety, anger, and more. I specialize in motivational interviewing, addiction counseling, and anger management. I consider myself an ally in the therapeutic process with the goal of helping my clients unlock their potential.
My name is Joshua Pelfrey, a licensed clinical social worker. I have been in the counseling field for more than 15 years as both an addiction counselor and clinical social worker. I help individuals and couples with addiction, depression, anxiety, anger, and more. I specialize in motivational interviewing, addiction counseling, and anger management. I consider myself an ally in the therapeutic process with the goal of helping my clients unlock their potential.
(805) 567-2909 View (805) 567-2909
Photo of Bryan Vasquez, CATC-II, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Bryan Vasquez
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CATC-II
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90808
Struggling with addiction & feel rehab isn’t an option? Want to adjust your relationship with a substance instead of being told you must quit? Leaving your family, job, school or responsibilities for an extended period of time is not always needed to get yourself healthy & on track. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, I know the challenges of this lifestyle. Being caught in the cycle of addiction is hard...feelings of anxiety, guilt, & shame. You may have tried cutting back or stopping on your own, only to find yourself engaging in the same unhelpful pattern. I specialize in moderation & abstinence based approaches.
Struggling with addiction & feel rehab isn’t an option? Want to adjust your relationship with a substance instead of being told you must quit? Leaving your family, job, school or responsibilities for an extended period of time is not always needed to get yourself healthy & on track. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, I know the challenges of this lifestyle. Being caught in the cycle of addiction is hard...feelings of anxiety, guilt, & shame. You may have tried cutting back or stopping on your own, only to find yourself engaging in the same unhelpful pattern. I specialize in moderation & abstinence based approaches.
(657) 300-9925 View (657) 300-9925
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.