Addiction Therapists in Maui County, HI

Photo of Michele 'shelby' Scofield, PhD, LCSW, CSAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michele 'shelby' Scofield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
Kula, HI 96790
I have been working in the field of addiction over ten years in various capacities working with individuals, groups, families, and at the policy level.
Behavior is an alamalgamation of learned patterns that lead to particular outcomes. Engaging in therapy with Counseling Alternatives for Recovery Maintenance (CARM) will help you identify patterns that no longer serve your desired goals and will help you develop in ways that improve your quality of life...Are you ready?
I have been working in the field of addiction over ten years in various capacities working with individuals, groups, families, and at the policy level.
Behavior is an alamalgamation of learned patterns that lead to particular outcomes. Engaging in therapy with Counseling Alternatives for Recovery Maintenance (CARM) will help you identify patterns that no longer serve your desired goals and will help you develop in ways that improve your quality of life...Are you ready?
(808) 518-6213 View (808) 518-6213
Photo of Deborah Sitbon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Sitbon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wailuku, HI 96793
I worked the Substance Abuse field for 14 years.
In a world of uncertainty we are faced with conflict everyday. I work with clients who need direction and focus in their day to day problems as well as looking at long term solutions to current conditions. Most of my clients are aware of the challenges they face when they begin psychotherapy but are awakened to the depth of who they are and how they participate in their own lives.
I worked the Substance Abuse field for 14 years.
In a world of uncertainty we are faced with conflict everyday. I work with clients who need direction and focus in their day to day problems as well as looking at long term solutions to current conditions. Most of my clients are aware of the challenges they face when they begin psychotherapy but are awakened to the depth of who they are and how they participate in their own lives.
(808) 518-2823 View (808) 518-2823
Photo of David Dolan, LMHC, CSAC, NCC, Counselor
David Dolan
Counselor, LMHC, CSAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Makawao, HI 96768
Aloha! I specialize in the treatment of substance abuse and addictions of all kinds, mental health issues, including anxiety, depression and life transitions, and trauma treatment with somatic healing and Attachment Focused EMDR. If you are struggling with a substance abuse issue and are looking to work with a counselor one-on-one who deeply understands the struggles of addiction and the triumphs of recovery, we may be a good fit. I have been in long term recovery myself for many years and my combined training in psychotherapy and my personal experience place me in a unique position to be of service.
Aloha! I specialize in the treatment of substance abuse and addictions of all kinds, mental health issues, including anxiety, depression and life transitions, and trauma treatment with somatic healing and Attachment Focused EMDR. If you are struggling with a substance abuse issue and are looking to work with a counselor one-on-one who deeply understands the struggles of addiction and the triumphs of recovery, we may be a good fit. I have been in long term recovery myself for many years and my combined training in psychotherapy and my personal experience place me in a unique position to be of service.
(808) 201-3816 View (808) 201-3816
Photo of Laura E Williams, LMHC, LPC, CSAC, PhD, Counselor
Laura E Williams
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CSAC, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kihei, HI 96753
Life is full of challenges, and at one point or another you may need help coping with emotional or psychological challenges such as trauma, depression, anxiety, or addiction.
Aloha! I am certified in Brainspotting (BSP), which is a proven modality that quickly and permanently heals trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, as well as many other issues. I have also been trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which is a proven modality to help trauma survivors. I have also been trained in art therapy and Neurofeedback. Please check out my website for more information.
Life is full of challenges, and at one point or another you may need help coping with emotional or psychological challenges such as trauma, depression, anxiety, or addiction.
Aloha! I am certified in Brainspotting (BSP), which is a proven modality that quickly and permanently heals trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, as well as many other issues. I have also been trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which is a proven modality to help trauma survivors. I have also been trained in art therapy and Neurofeedback. Please check out my website for more information.
(808) 427-2514 View (808) 427-2514
Photo of Amanda Silvey, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Silvey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lahaina, HI 96761  (Online Only)
I work with PTSD, various forms of trauma, and addiction.
Life can be full of challenges and unexpected events. I can help assist you in processing the things you can't control, while simultaneously taking charge of the things you can control. Whether you are suffering from PTSD, sexual abuse, death of a loved one, divorce, chronic illness, cancer, work issues, addiction, depression, or anxiety, you do not need to navigate those challenges alone. Every day life (and a pandemic!) can also be reason enough to want additional support. Together, we can explore and identify the patterns in your life that are no longer helpful so you can become your best self!
I work with PTSD, various forms of trauma, and addiction.
Life can be full of challenges and unexpected events. I can help assist you in processing the things you can't control, while simultaneously taking charge of the things you can control. Whether you are suffering from PTSD, sexual abuse, death of a loved one, divorce, chronic illness, cancer, work issues, addiction, depression, or anxiety, you do not need to navigate those challenges alone. Every day life (and a pandemic!) can also be reason enough to want additional support. Together, we can explore and identify the patterns in your life that are no longer helpful so you can become your best self!
(805) 424-5270 View (805) 424-5270
Photo of Brittni Brooks, LMFT, EMDR, KAP, CBT-i, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brittni Brooks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, KAP, CBT-i
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Makawao, HI 96768  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with intrusive thoughts, distressing memories, and anxiety? EMDR therapy helps to effectively process trauma and allows you to live you life with more ease and regulation. I work with adults and teens to relieve symptoms of PTSD, OCD, addiction, and insomnia. If you have tried talk therapy but still struggle, I welcome you to try EMDR. I utilize ego-state parts work and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy as needed. Throughout the healing process, you will notice increased self-trust and a natural release of old coping strategies. You deserve to live life fully, free from the distraction and pain of old wounds.
Do you struggle with intrusive thoughts, distressing memories, and anxiety? EMDR therapy helps to effectively process trauma and allows you to live you life with more ease and regulation. I work with adults and teens to relieve symptoms of PTSD, OCD, addiction, and insomnia. If you have tried talk therapy but still struggle, I welcome you to try EMDR. I utilize ego-state parts work and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy as needed. Throughout the healing process, you will notice increased self-trust and a natural release of old coping strategies. You deserve to live life fully, free from the distraction and pain of old wounds.
(808) 646-3367 View (808) 646-3367
Photo of Anthea Iuorno, MA, LMFT, CSAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anthea Iuorno
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAC
Verified Verified
Makawao, HI 96768
I have worked with individuals, couples, and families struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, family and parenting, substance abuse, life transitions, and personal growth, among other issues.
Are you wanting to gain a more peaceful state of mind? Searching for a way to surf through the ups and downs in your life and maintain a calm inner core? I'm here to help you. My goal is to meet you where you are at this moment and accompany you in exploring, healing, and arriving where you want to be. The therapeutic journey is fluid and creative. I provide a safe space for the process to take place. I look forward to meeting you, and congratulations in taking the initiative to find the right therapist for you!
I have worked with individuals, couples, and families struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, family and parenting, substance abuse, life transitions, and personal growth, among other issues.
Are you wanting to gain a more peaceful state of mind? Searching for a way to surf through the ups and downs in your life and maintain a calm inner core? I'm here to help you. My goal is to meet you where you are at this moment and accompany you in exploring, healing, and arriving where you want to be. The therapeutic journey is fluid and creative. I provide a safe space for the process to take place. I look forward to meeting you, and congratulations in taking the initiative to find the right therapist for you!
(808) 793-5665 View (808) 793-5665
Photo of Robert T Perkins, CSAC, SAP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Robert T Perkins
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CSAC, SAP
Verified Verified
Wailuku, HI 96793
I can help individuals address and accurately and fairly assess their needs in terms of alcohol and other substance use concerns.
My area of expertise lies within providing objective and professional drug and alcohol assessments for people in Hawaii. In addition I provide individual and group sessions for adults that have gotten a second DUI conviction within a 10 year period, providing education and support around those issues. I provide weekday and weekend appointments. I am also trained and (SAP) certified to work with clients needing help with assessments specific to DOT related issues.
I can help individuals address and accurately and fairly assess their needs in terms of alcohol and other substance use concerns.
My area of expertise lies within providing objective and professional drug and alcohol assessments for people in Hawaii. In addition I provide individual and group sessions for adults that have gotten a second DUI conviction within a 10 year period, providing education and support around those issues. I provide weekday and weekend appointments. I am also trained and (SAP) certified to work with clients needing help with assessments specific to DOT related issues.
(808) 736-6088 View (808) 736-6088
Photo of Patricia Covici, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Covici
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Kihei, HI 96753
Many people experience a deep sense of longing often described as a feeling of emptiness. What we use to fix or fill that emptiness can begin addictive processes like alcoholism, love addiction, and codependency. My approach is to meet that longing with compassion, understanding and love. Often the problem that causes us discomfort is an old way of coping that a part of us believes we need. Together we find the meaning that is generating or keeping the presenting symptom or problem in place and then move to swiftly create positive lasting change.
Many people experience a deep sense of longing often described as a feeling of emptiness. What we use to fix or fill that emptiness can begin addictive processes like alcoholism, love addiction, and codependency. My approach is to meet that longing with compassion, understanding and love. Often the problem that causes us discomfort is an old way of coping that a part of us believes we need. Together we find the meaning that is generating or keeping the presenting symptom or problem in place and then move to swiftly create positive lasting change.
(808) 495-0161 View (808) 495-0161
Photo of Christina Reichert, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christina Reichert
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Makawao, HI 96768
I specialize in addressing personal growth, trauma, substance use and issues in relationships.
Aloha! Seeking help for struggles can be difficult. Just know that you have made the most important step in creating your life the way you want it. Life can present many challenges; with the right support these can be incredible opportunities to grow. Starting therapy is the beginning of a journey to find a more connected and fulfilling relationship to ourselves, others and the world we live in. Each of us, deep down, hold our own answers to the issues we face. Sometimes we need an objective listener to ask new questions, suggest new skills, be supportive and coach us through tough times.
I specialize in addressing personal growth, trauma, substance use and issues in relationships.
Aloha! Seeking help for struggles can be difficult. Just know that you have made the most important step in creating your life the way you want it. Life can present many challenges; with the right support these can be incredible opportunities to grow. Starting therapy is the beginning of a journey to find a more connected and fulfilling relationship to ourselves, others and the world we live in. Each of us, deep down, hold our own answers to the issues we face. Sometimes we need an objective listener to ask new questions, suggest new skills, be supportive and coach us through tough times.
(808) 201-0347 View (808) 201-0347
Photo of Jennifer Purcell, LMFT, MA, CSAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Purcell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, CSAC
Verified Verified
Makawao, HI 96768  (Online Only)
Although I have worked with a variety of therapeutic issues, I regularly provide counseling for the following: Anxiety, Addiction, Depression, Domestic Violence, Self- Esteem, Mental Health and a variety of other challenges.
We all experience challenging and overwhelming periods in life. We often turn to friends, family, or faith is often helpful in navigating life's paths, we also benefit from a trained ear that can listen from the outside. Therapy is a safe place for exploration; a journey towards more fulfilling relationships and a time of learning new ideas and skill sets to enjoy a more satisfying life. I work with clients in a safe confidential setting where we can explore any issues that are of concern to you.
Although I have worked with a variety of therapeutic issues, I regularly provide counseling for the following: Anxiety, Addiction, Depression, Domestic Violence, Self- Esteem, Mental Health and a variety of other challenges.
We all experience challenging and overwhelming periods in life. We often turn to friends, family, or faith is often helpful in navigating life's paths, we also benefit from a trained ear that can listen from the outside. Therapy is a safe place for exploration; a journey towards more fulfilling relationships and a time of learning new ideas and skill sets to enjoy a more satisfying life. I work with clients in a safe confidential setting where we can explore any issues that are of concern to you.
(808) 582-5954 View (808) 582-5954
Photo of Jomarie Tyrrell, LMFT, CSAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jomarie Tyrrell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haiku, HI 96708
I specialize in individual and addiction therapy using EMDR, Brainspotting, psychoeducation and talk therapy.
Are you currently at a place where life is giving you signals that you might need extra assistance? Are you caught in some emotional web that has you feeling stuck? Are you longing to feel a deeper connection with yourself and others? My clients not only gain a better understanding of themselves but also a more compassionate relationship with themselves and those around them. My clients leave with knowledge, tools and coping skills to address their daily lives.
I specialize in individual and addiction therapy using EMDR, Brainspotting, psychoeducation and talk therapy.
Are you currently at a place where life is giving you signals that you might need extra assistance? Are you caught in some emotional web that has you feeling stuck? Are you longing to feel a deeper connection with yourself and others? My clients not only gain a better understanding of themselves but also a more compassionate relationship with themselves and those around them. My clients leave with knowledge, tools and coping skills to address their daily lives.
(808) 784-7286 View (808) 784-7286
Photo of Josephine Asiata-Tuuga, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Josephine Asiata-Tuuga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wailuku, HI 96793
Hi there and Aloha! My name is Josephine Asiata-Tuuga and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker living in Puyallup, WA, but my license is in the beautiful state of Hawaii, working with clients statewide via telehealth. My experience comes from working with adults with co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance use). I also have experience in working with adolescents with mental health challenges. The therapeutic modalities I utilize have been known to work best for both the adult and adolescent populations.
Hi there and Aloha! My name is Josephine Asiata-Tuuga and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker living in Puyallup, WA, but my license is in the beautiful state of Hawaii, working with clients statewide via telehealth. My experience comes from working with adults with co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance use). I also have experience in working with adolescents with mental health challenges. The therapeutic modalities I utilize have been known to work best for both the adult and adolescent populations.
(808) 215-6503 View (808) 215-6503
Photo of Jay L Serle, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jay L Serle
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lahaina, HI 96761  (Online Only)
My specialties include: Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Trauma.
Have you been struggling? Need to talk or work on an issue? I'd love to help! I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist working through telehealth throughout the State of Hawaii. I’ve been a resident of Lahaina for the last 30 years. I work with adults , from a humanistic and client centered perspective to help my clients attain their fullest quality of life. I provide a safe and confidential counseling experience for you to explore your personal potential.
My specialties include: Depression, Anxiety, Addiction, Trauma.
Have you been struggling? Need to talk or work on an issue? I'd love to help! I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist working through telehealth throughout the State of Hawaii. I’ve been a resident of Lahaina for the last 30 years. I work with adults , from a humanistic and client centered perspective to help my clients attain their fullest quality of life. I provide a safe and confidential counseling experience for you to explore your personal potential.
(808) 755-3614 View (808) 755-3614
Photo of Debbie Bayer, LMFT, CSAC, CSAT, CPTT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debbie Bayer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAC, CSAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
Kihei, HI 96753  (Online Only)
Addiction has the power to unravel families, leaving a trail of destruction. Our approach involves individualized and couples counseling tailored for issues such as substance abuse, sexual compulsion, infidelity, partner betrayal trauma, and the ripple effects on loved ones. We offer a compassionate and non-judgmental environment that nurtures healing and insight. With decades of experience, I understand the journey to recovery and am committed to guiding you and your loved ones toward a path of healing. No matter the crises you're facing, we're here to help you discover solutions. Feel free to reach out for a free consultation.
Addiction has the power to unravel families, leaving a trail of destruction. Our approach involves individualized and couples counseling tailored for issues such as substance abuse, sexual compulsion, infidelity, partner betrayal trauma, and the ripple effects on loved ones. We offer a compassionate and non-judgmental environment that nurtures healing and insight. With decades of experience, I understand the journey to recovery and am committed to guiding you and your loved ones toward a path of healing. No matter the crises you're facing, we're here to help you discover solutions. Feel free to reach out for a free consultation.
(808) 793-6984 View (808) 793-6984
Photo of Tanya Noelle Gabriel, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Tanya Noelle Gabriel
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kihei, HI 96753  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also have experience in treating eating disorders/addiction, depression, and anxiety disorders.
The human experience can be extremely challenging at times. With practice, you can learn to navigate the difficult parts of life with more ease, acceptance, and inner peace. I believe in the proven benefits of mindfulness-based therapies which is why my approach to therapy is hands on using therapy models such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MBCB). I specialize in treating depression and anxiety disorders, and helping people navigate difficult life transitions.
I also have experience in treating eating disorders/addiction, depression, and anxiety disorders.
The human experience can be extremely challenging at times. With practice, you can learn to navigate the difficult parts of life with more ease, acceptance, and inner peace. I believe in the proven benefits of mindfulness-based therapies which is why my approach to therapy is hands on using therapy models such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MBCB). I specialize in treating depression and anxiety disorders, and helping people navigate difficult life transitions.
(808) 731-1167 View (808) 731-1167
Photo of undefined - Mindful Living Group, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindful Living Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Kihei, HI 96753
Offering video therapy sessions. Life is a journey. Sometimes at peaks and others valleys. In times of struggle, compassionate, effective therapy can help. If you're experiencing a life transition, struggling with isolation, depression, trauma, anxiety, sleep, having a hard time overcoming a life challenge, exploring spirituality or deeper meaning to life, feeling overly sensitive, experiencing relating challenges, struggling with purpose/direction, dealing with anxiety, communication problems, parenting, struggling with substance misuse, or wanting to connect more deeply to self or others, you are not alone. We are here to help.
Offering video therapy sessions. Life is a journey. Sometimes at peaks and others valleys. In times of struggle, compassionate, effective therapy can help. If you're experiencing a life transition, struggling with isolation, depression, trauma, anxiety, sleep, having a hard time overcoming a life challenge, exploring spirituality or deeper meaning to life, feeling overly sensitive, experiencing relating challenges, struggling with purpose/direction, dealing with anxiety, communication problems, parenting, struggling with substance misuse, or wanting to connect more deeply to self or others, you are not alone. We are here to help.
(808) 725-2130 x2 View (808) 725-2130 x2
Photo of Katy Brandenburg, LMHC, MCOUN
Katy Brandenburg
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MCOUN
Verified Verified
Makawao, HI 96768
My experience includes domestic violence and trauma counseling, addiction recovery, wilderness therapy, and eating disorder recovery.
Currently accepting new clients! My approach is a down-to-earth combination of the practical and the spiritual. If anxiety, depression, trauma, body image/food issues, or low self-worth are preventing you from having the kind of life you yearn for, I can be of service. Our early life experiences lead us to form "programs": beliefs about ourself and others that are often not true in the present, that can hold us back from living our full potential. My role is as a guide, holding safe space for you to navigate the questions and de-program the past as you learn to trust your inner wisdom.
My experience includes domestic violence and trauma counseling, addiction recovery, wilderness therapy, and eating disorder recovery.
Currently accepting new clients! My approach is a down-to-earth combination of the practical and the spiritual. If anxiety, depression, trauma, body image/food issues, or low self-worth are preventing you from having the kind of life you yearn for, I can be of service. Our early life experiences lead us to form "programs": beliefs about ourself and others that are often not true in the present, that can hold us back from living our full potential. My role is as a guide, holding safe space for you to navigate the questions and de-program the past as you learn to trust your inner wisdom.
(808) 215-5902 View (808) 215-5902
Photo of undefined - Sonya B Chambliss Counseling Services LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sonya B Chambliss Counseling Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lahaina, HI 96761
I specialize in couples work, anxiety, adult/childhood trauma, sexual acting out, eating disorders, codependence, love addiction/avoidance, substance abuse and other relational issues.
I am here to help you stop running and start living! Your healing is a journey that needs a strong co-pilot! I specialize in deep trauma work (emotional, sexual, spiritual, relational, and physical) when other types of therapy have not worked for you. I use EMDR as one of my primary tools for trauma work where possible to hasten healing. I work to strengthen that inner voice inside of you to help you find your healing your way. I use techniques I learned working with world renowned professionals, including being fully trained in EMDR, (EMDRIA) a trauma resolution technique.
I specialize in couples work, anxiety, adult/childhood trauma, sexual acting out, eating disorders, codependence, love addiction/avoidance, substance abuse and other relational issues.
I am here to help you stop running and start living! Your healing is a journey that needs a strong co-pilot! I specialize in deep trauma work (emotional, sexual, spiritual, relational, and physical) when other types of therapy have not worked for you. I use EMDR as one of my primary tools for trauma work where possible to hasten healing. I work to strengthen that inner voice inside of you to help you find your healing your way. I use techniques I learned working with world renowned professionals, including being fully trained in EMDR, (EMDRIA) a trauma resolution technique.
(808) 250-9406 View (808) 250-9406
Photo of Jemma Cannon, MA, LMFT, CSAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jemma Cannon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAC
Verified Verified
Paia, HI 96779
Are you seeking help for anxiety, depression, addiction, or problems in relationships? Are you looking for support for yourself or your marriage? I have helped many clients during the therapy process develop hope and make positive changes.
Jemma earned a Masters in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pacifica Graduate Institute in Santa Barbara in 2011. She is also an Internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ICADC) and CADC-II.
Are you seeking help for anxiety, depression, addiction, or problems in relationships? Are you looking for support for yourself or your marriage? I have helped many clients during the therapy process develop hope and make positive changes.
Jemma earned a Masters in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pacifica Graduate Institute in Santa Barbara in 2011. She is also an Internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ICADC) and CADC-II.
(808) 400-1728 View (808) 400-1728

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.