Addiction Therapists in Portland, OR

Photo of Joseph Bonnell, MS, LPC, CRC, CADCIII, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joseph Bonnell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CRC, CADCIII
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97230
I am a therapist and clinical supervisor based in Portland, OR. Some areas I have experience in include disability, chronic illness, queer and trans folks, gender affirming care, various forms of neurodiversity, trauma, oppression, navigating social services - both as clients and workers, and substance use. I am grateful to have had a career working where I have worked with a diverse group of people on a wide range of issues and I hope this trend continues. I work with adults and teens. If you think I could be a good fit for you, or have additional questions, please reach out. I am happy to offer free consultations.
I am a therapist and clinical supervisor based in Portland, OR. Some areas I have experience in include disability, chronic illness, queer and trans folks, gender affirming care, various forms of neurodiversity, trauma, oppression, navigating social services - both as clients and workers, and substance use. I am grateful to have had a career working where I have worked with a diverse group of people on a wide range of issues and I hope this trend continues. I work with adults and teens. If you think I could be a good fit for you, or have additional questions, please reach out. I am happy to offer free consultations.
(503) 966-2873 View (503) 966-2873
Photo of Alexis Lessard-Templin, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexis Lessard-Templin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience providing individual therapy to those dealing with anxiety, stress, trauma, and substance use. I know that life can bring about loss in many forms and believe in the healing power of a therapeutic relationship. I believe in working with clients to help in identifying and creating new ways to live a healthy life. Current Schedule: I see clients Tues-Thurs from 8:30am-1:30pm (12:30pm is the last appointment). Please make sure this schedule works for you and let me know if there is a time or day preference in your inquiry.
I have experience providing individual therapy to those dealing with anxiety, stress, trauma, and substance use. I know that life can bring about loss in many forms and believe in the healing power of a therapeutic relationship. I believe in working with clients to help in identifying and creating new ways to live a healthy life. Current Schedule: I see clients Tues-Thurs from 8:30am-1:30pm (12:30pm is the last appointment). Please make sure this schedule works for you and let me know if there is a time or day preference in your inquiry.
(503) 563-2089 View (503) 563-2089
Photo of Anna Lisa Couturier, LCSW, CADCI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Lisa Couturier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADCI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
Waitlist for new clients
I am certified to treat substance abuse as well as mental health issues.
My approach to counseling is centered on building a relationship with youth and families, adults, and couples that is based on dignity and mutual respect. I attempt to create an atmosphere of cooperation and equality in counseling, based on the belief that clients are the experts on their own lives and experiences, and that this expertise can be utilized in the process of making change. I believe compassion and authenticity are essential to forging a strong therapeutic relationship.
I am certified to treat substance abuse as well as mental health issues.
My approach to counseling is centered on building a relationship with youth and families, adults, and couples that is based on dignity and mutual respect. I attempt to create an atmosphere of cooperation and equality in counseling, based on the belief that clients are the experts on their own lives and experiences, and that this expertise can be utilized in the process of making change. I believe compassion and authenticity are essential to forging a strong therapeutic relationship.
(503) 451-6068 View (503) 451-6068
Photo of Joshua Conwell, MA, Pastoral Counselor
Joshua Conwell
Pastoral Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I enjoy working with those who struggle with pornography addiction, sexuality issues, anxiety, depression, OCD, spiritual OCD, and relationship issues.
Christian counseling engages your story without judgment, and helps change how you see yourself, others, God, and life experiences. This takes time. I would love to walk alongside you through your struggles and difficulties. My counseling experience ranges from residential treatment, church counseling ministry, and private practice.
I enjoy working with those who struggle with pornography addiction, sexuality issues, anxiety, depression, OCD, spiritual OCD, and relationship issues.
Christian counseling engages your story without judgment, and helps change how you see yourself, others, God, and life experiences. This takes time. I would love to walk alongside you through your struggles and difficulties. My counseling experience ranges from residential treatment, church counseling ministry, and private practice.
(503) 809-8634 View (503) 809-8634
Photo of Amy Newman, MA, CADC-R, QMHP-R, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amy Newman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CADC-R, QMHP-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
These are difficult times, and I want to offer you a place to be your authentic self. This is counseling without judgement. If you need support with the many challenges life can bring, I would love to help you find more ease, joy, and acceptance. My clinical interests include addiction, family systems, relational issues, and trauma, among others. I am open to working with adult individuals, couples, and families. I have experience working in residential Substance Use Disorder treatment as well as working with their loved ones. I want to meet you where you're at, and help you connect with what matters most to you.
These are difficult times, and I want to offer you a place to be your authentic self. This is counseling without judgement. If you need support with the many challenges life can bring, I would love to help you find more ease, joy, and acceptance. My clinical interests include addiction, family systems, relational issues, and trauma, among others. I am open to working with adult individuals, couples, and families. I have experience working in residential Substance Use Disorder treatment as well as working with their loved ones. I want to meet you where you're at, and help you connect with what matters most to you.
(971) 265-6646 View (971) 265-6646
Photo of Quinn Bailey, MA, NCC
Quinn Bailey
Professional Counselor Associate , MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97266
In my first couple of years as a clinician I worked in gambling addiction treatment, which taught me the importance of meeting clients where they are, working collaboratively, and creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space that honors the non-linear process of recovery.
Being a person is hard. And while life can often feel overwhelming, I believe that with the right support, everyone is capable of change and growth. A trusting therapeutic relationship can help us to reconnect with our authentic values, needs, and desires, opening up new pathways toward a more fulfilling life. With a background in philosophy, I have long been fascinated by the questions and challenges of living. However, it was my own recovery experience that inspired me to become a counselor and dedicate my time to helping others as they navigate their unique journeys toward healing.
In my first couple of years as a clinician I worked in gambling addiction treatment, which taught me the importance of meeting clients where they are, working collaboratively, and creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space that honors the non-linear process of recovery.
Being a person is hard. And while life can often feel overwhelming, I believe that with the right support, everyone is capable of change and growth. A trusting therapeutic relationship can help us to reconnect with our authentic values, needs, and desires, opening up new pathways toward a more fulfilling life. With a background in philosophy, I have long been fascinated by the questions and challenges of living. However, it was my own recovery experience that inspired me to become a counselor and dedicate my time to helping others as they navigate their unique journeys toward healing.
(971) 405-8465 View (971) 405-8465
Photo of Elissa Barbee, MA, LPC, CADCI, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elissa Barbee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CADCI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
As a dual-diagnosis counselor I am skilled in providing a client-centered and effective healing space for those affected by mental health issues, addiction and trauma.
"Being human is not about being any one particular way; it is about being as life creates you-with your own particular strengths and weaknesses, gifts and challenges, quirks and oddities." Here, Kristin Neff gently reminds us that the gift of life is experienced through the journey of coming in to your own being. As a healing professional, I would be honored to accompany you on your journey of exploring the unique aspects of your humanness that cause you to get stuck and limit your access to abundance.
As a dual-diagnosis counselor I am skilled in providing a client-centered and effective healing space for those affected by mental health issues, addiction and trauma.
"Being human is not about being any one particular way; it is about being as life creates you-with your own particular strengths and weaknesses, gifts and challenges, quirks and oddities." Here, Kristin Neff gently reminds us that the gift of life is experienced through the journey of coming in to your own being. As a healing professional, I would be honored to accompany you on your journey of exploring the unique aspects of your humanness that cause you to get stuck and limit your access to abundance.
(503) 610-8905 View (503) 610-8905
Photo of Debbie Bensching, LCSW, ACSW, MSWAC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debbie Bensching
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, MSWAC, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Waitlist for new clients
I guide the process of working through problems to enhance performance in activities of daily living in work, relationships, recreation & professional settings. Problem areas include difficulties with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger, grief & loss, women's issues, habit disorders, addictions recovery: drugs, alcohol, food; ACOA, family members affected by addiction, trauma: post-traumatic stress, rape, abuse (physical, emotional, sexual), dissociative disorders, relationships: marriage / domestic partner, parent-child, divorce/ separation, parenting. Also work with difficulties with sleep, relaxation, or underperforming.
I guide the process of working through problems to enhance performance in activities of daily living in work, relationships, recreation & professional settings. Problem areas include difficulties with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger, grief & loss, women's issues, habit disorders, addictions recovery: drugs, alcohol, food; ACOA, family members affected by addiction, trauma: post-traumatic stress, rape, abuse (physical, emotional, sexual), dissociative disorders, relationships: marriage / domestic partner, parent-child, divorce/ separation, parenting. Also work with difficulties with sleep, relaxation, or underperforming.
(503) 406-3624 View (503) 406-3624
Photo of Dave Hires, MA, CADC II
Dave Hires
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, CADC II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
In my years of training and experience, I've focused on trauma, substance use disorders, grief, depression and anxiety.
I believe we are all born inclined towards love and growth but then life happens. We adapt to survive, but sometimes we find that we've lost ourselves in the process. Over time that way of surviving can lead to any number of undesired outcomes: anxiety, depression, self-loathing, relationship instability, addiction, feeling stuck, feeling a lack of joy. You are strong - you have survived - and I would like to help you heal these wounds and get you back to (or create for the first time) the life that you deserve.
In my years of training and experience, I've focused on trauma, substance use disorders, grief, depression and anxiety.
I believe we are all born inclined towards love and growth but then life happens. We adapt to survive, but sometimes we find that we've lost ourselves in the process. Over time that way of surviving can lead to any number of undesired outcomes: anxiety, depression, self-loathing, relationship instability, addiction, feeling stuck, feeling a lack of joy. You are strong - you have survived - and I would like to help you heal these wounds and get you back to (or create for the first time) the life that you deserve.
(971) 306-5158 View (971) 306-5158
Photo of Mike Grant - Aid Station Performance Therapy, LCSW, CADC II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aid Station Performance Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC II
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Mike will primarily utilize EMDR therapy and/or Brainspotting therapy to help people/athletes overcome common mental and emotional symptoms that can impede progress, performance, or welness. Example of these performance block can be: fear, uncertainty, intrusive thoughts, inability to execute muscle memory movements, feeling of being locked, stuck, or frozen, anxiety, inconsistency, avoidance, frustration and depression. I am also seeing people who have trauma and addiction backgrounds. I'd love to work together to bring awareness to causes of being stuck, and freeing yourself from these anchors.
Mike will primarily utilize EMDR therapy and/or Brainspotting therapy to help people/athletes overcome common mental and emotional symptoms that can impede progress, performance, or welness. Example of these performance block can be: fear, uncertainty, intrusive thoughts, inability to execute muscle memory movements, feeling of being locked, stuck, or frozen, anxiety, inconsistency, avoidance, frustration and depression. I am also seeing people who have trauma and addiction backgrounds. I'd love to work together to bring awareness to causes of being stuck, and freeing yourself from these anchors.
(503) 782-9339 View (503) 782-9339
Photo of Kim Stetson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Stetson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
I’m passionate about helping people who are depressed, anxious, disconnected and overwhelmed with the world. I offer individual therapy for adults in SE Portland, Oregon with a focus on trauma, addiction, and relationship issues. I provide counseling that is strengths-based and respectful. I am kind and compassionate, and also direct and authentic. I will warmly meet you wherever you’re at in your journey while also inviting you to grow and change. I am accepting new clients. I only work with individual adults (no children, adolescents or couples).
I’m passionate about helping people who are depressed, anxious, disconnected and overwhelmed with the world. I offer individual therapy for adults in SE Portland, Oregon with a focus on trauma, addiction, and relationship issues. I provide counseling that is strengths-based and respectful. I am kind and compassionate, and also direct and authentic. I will warmly meet you wherever you’re at in your journey while also inviting you to grow and change. I am accepting new clients. I only work with individual adults (no children, adolescents or couples).
(503) 470-2343 View (503) 470-2343
Photo of Eric Nada, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eric Nada
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
I have experience working with teenagers, couples, drug and alcohol addiction, survivors of domestic violence, those struggling with codependency, and those who just seem to have to struggle to keep up with the pace of life.
I am committed and interested in helping my clients strengthen their connections to others while simultaneously developing the tools to create personal feelings of confidence, strength, and fulfullment within themselves. Although I cater to each client specifically, my general plan of action consists of the immediate alleviation of symptoms, in concert with an in-depth look at related patterns established throughout the client's lifetime. In other words, first we can tend to the flower's blossom, but then let us tend to its roots.
I have experience working with teenagers, couples, drug and alcohol addiction, survivors of domestic violence, those struggling with codependency, and those who just seem to have to struggle to keep up with the pace of life.
I am committed and interested in helping my clients strengthen their connections to others while simultaneously developing the tools to create personal feelings of confidence, strength, and fulfullment within themselves. Although I cater to each client specifically, my general plan of action consists of the immediate alleviation of symptoms, in concert with an in-depth look at related patterns established throughout the client's lifetime. In other words, first we can tend to the flower's blossom, but then let us tend to its roots.
(949) 216-8062 View (949) 216-8062
Photo of Robbie Bahl, MD
Robbie Bahl
MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
We are here to help with your mental health or addiction issues without the stigma or judgement.
At Shanti, we provide comprehensive mental health treatment. We specialize in dual diagnosis treatment for mental health issues and addiction. Our TMS therapy program treats depression in our clients using a new and unique technology. Robbie Bahl, MD is our medical director. He is a dual Board Certified medical physician, specializing in Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine. He performs Suboxone and Buprenorphine Inductions and Maintenance, Chronic Pain, Opioid Dependence, Alcohol Dependence, Vivitrol/Sublocade Injections, and TMS therapy for depression. We have a team of MDs, NPs, and therapists to work to for your wellness.
We are here to help with your mental health or addiction issues without the stigma or judgement.
At Shanti, we provide comprehensive mental health treatment. We specialize in dual diagnosis treatment for mental health issues and addiction. Our TMS therapy program treats depression in our clients using a new and unique technology. Robbie Bahl, MD is our medical director. He is a dual Board Certified medical physician, specializing in Addiction Medicine and Family Medicine. He performs Suboxone and Buprenorphine Inductions and Maintenance, Chronic Pain, Opioid Dependence, Alcohol Dependence, Vivitrol/Sublocade Injections, and TMS therapy for depression. We have a team of MDs, NPs, and therapists to work to for your wellness.
(503) 743-7966 View (503) 743-7966
Photo of Mary Kevin Holdeman, MA, LPC, CADCII, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Kevin Holdeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CADCII
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
After spending over a decade working at a world renowned substance use treatment center, I feel confident in helping you address addiction and compulsive behaviors as well as related challenges such as grief, unresolved trauma, anxiety, and depression.
I have found that I work best with people wanting to honor their positive assets while making changes that will support new goals. Those feeling stuck, ready to dive deep, willing to do work outside of our sessions to create change in their lives. While my approach is gentle and respectful, I am ready to help you face your concerns frankly and honestly. I consider our therapeutic relationship to be the most important factor in our work together.
After spending over a decade working at a world renowned substance use treatment center, I feel confident in helping you address addiction and compulsive behaviors as well as related challenges such as grief, unresolved trauma, anxiety, and depression.
I have found that I work best with people wanting to honor their positive assets while making changes that will support new goals. Those feeling stuck, ready to dive deep, willing to do work outside of our sessions to create change in their lives. While my approach is gentle and respectful, I am ready to help you face your concerns frankly and honestly. I consider our therapeutic relationship to be the most important factor in our work together.
(503) 406-4826 View (503) 406-4826
Photo of Larry Venaska, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Larry Venaska
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97211
I have extensive experience treating addictions including process addictions (sex addiction, gambling, co-dependency, emotional eating) and substance abuse and specialize in family issues and conflict resolution.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed or hopeless? Can't get your needs met to your satisfaction? Do you find one or more areas of your life to be unfullfilling such as romantic relationship, work, parenting, extended family? Do you have legal or financial struggles or relationship conflicts that affect your mood significantly? I draw on a variety of therapeutic approaches, experience in working with past clients and personal experience to collaborate with you in creating the best healing environment specific for you.
I have extensive experience treating addictions including process addictions (sex addiction, gambling, co-dependency, emotional eating) and substance abuse and specialize in family issues and conflict resolution.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed or hopeless? Can't get your needs met to your satisfaction? Do you find one or more areas of your life to be unfullfilling such as romantic relationship, work, parenting, extended family? Do you have legal or financial struggles or relationship conflicts that affect your mood significantly? I draw on a variety of therapeutic approaches, experience in working with past clients and personal experience to collaborate with you in creating the best healing environment specific for you.
(971) 205-2892 View (971) 205-2892
Photo of Jason Durtschi - Jason Durtschi, LCSW (Tree of Life Counseling), MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jason Durtschi, LCSW (Tree of Life Counseling)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97227
I would describe my approach to therapy as mindfulness/self-compassion-based. I treat a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, addictions, interpersonal issues (i.e. couples counseling), psycho-spiritual/religious conflicts and abuse, sexuality, and pragmatic life-coaching, to name a few. I have extensive experience working with the LGBTQ community, some "out," others not; some religious, others not. I use elements of CBT, ACT, DBT and other models. I also explore with my clients deeper-seated issues, including exploring our "shadows", blindspots and the roots of addiction and shame. I am licensed in OR and WA.
I would describe my approach to therapy as mindfulness/self-compassion-based. I treat a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, addictions, interpersonal issues (i.e. couples counseling), psycho-spiritual/religious conflicts and abuse, sexuality, and pragmatic life-coaching, to name a few. I have extensive experience working with the LGBTQ community, some "out," others not; some religious, others not. I use elements of CBT, ACT, DBT and other models. I also explore with my clients deeper-seated issues, including exploring our "shadows", blindspots and the roots of addiction and shame. I am licensed in OR and WA.
(202) 813-1499 View (202) 813-1499
Photo of Danesh Oleshko, LMFT, MA, LLM, CADC I, JD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danesh Oleshko
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, LLM, CADC I, JD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97217
I enjoy practicing psychotherapy that is holistic and life-transforming. As an LMFT with depth specialization, I listen to your emotional heart and soul to heal the mind. The issues that you experience as an individual, couple or in relationship with family deserve attention with that kind of dedication. Trained in integral psychology with specialization in complex addiction issues, I'm also honored to have over a decade of apprenticeship with indigenous elders. This experience allows me to carefully blend modern evidenced-based clinical modalities with ancestral healing traditions in my practice.
I enjoy practicing psychotherapy that is holistic and life-transforming. As an LMFT with depth specialization, I listen to your emotional heart and soul to heal the mind. The issues that you experience as an individual, couple or in relationship with family deserve attention with that kind of dedication. Trained in integral psychology with specialization in complex addiction issues, I'm also honored to have over a decade of apprenticeship with indigenous elders. This experience allows me to carefully blend modern evidenced-based clinical modalities with ancestral healing traditions in my practice.
(541) 204-8870 View (541) 204-8870
Photo of Jenene Belshe, BS, CADCII, QMHA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Jenene Belshe
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, BS, CADCII, QMHA
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am an expert in the field of drug and alcohol addiction. I offer you support and guidance while you navigate your journey to recovery. I create a supportive environment and give you the tools you need to rebuild your life, rediscover yourself, and transform your world.
I am an expert in the field of drug and alcohol addiction. I offer you support and guidance while you navigate your journey to recovery. I create a supportive environment and give you the tools you need to rebuild your life, rediscover yourself, and transform your world.
(503) 749-9012 View (503) 749-9012
Photo of Andrea Siferd, LPCA, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Andrea Siferd
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
Before earning her master’s degree from Antioch University, Andrea found meaning and purpose working with adults in early recovery from addiction and mental health disorders.
Are you struggling with anxiety and depression that just doesn't seem to go away? Is a previous or current experience of substance abuse negatively impacting your life? Are there big lifestyle changes you are currently adjusting to, such as parenting stress or relationship issues? Is there a traumatic experience you've gone through that makes it hard to get up in the morning? If you resonate with these concerns or issues, Andrea will be a good fit for you. Her experience in these concerns, matched with her qualifications and empathic nature, can be a great fit for any client who is feeling stuck, struggling, and needing support.
Before earning her master’s degree from Antioch University, Andrea found meaning and purpose working with adults in early recovery from addiction and mental health disorders.
Are you struggling with anxiety and depression that just doesn't seem to go away? Is a previous or current experience of substance abuse negatively impacting your life? Are there big lifestyle changes you are currently adjusting to, such as parenting stress or relationship issues? Is there a traumatic experience you've gone through that makes it hard to get up in the morning? If you resonate with these concerns or issues, Andrea will be a good fit for you. Her experience in these concerns, matched with her qualifications and empathic nature, can be a great fit for any client who is feeling stuck, struggling, and needing support.
(971) 365-5670 View (971) 365-5670
Photo of Anna Brown, Counselor
Anna Brown
Counselor
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97266
If you want support with your mental health, substance use, or desire to deepen your relationship with your partner I would love to work with you to achieve a life with more peace, self-acceptance, and gratitude.
Pain and shame thrive in isolation. Reflecting on your history with curiosity, alongside a compassionate witness can alleviate feelings of lonliness, self-criticism, depression, and anxiety. I collaborate with you to create a safe container to explore your story and process pain so you can have more internal space for joy and connection. I am a psychodynamic therapist, which means being curious with you about how your past may be impacting your present. I wholeheartedly believe in harm reduction and approach treatment holistically, utilizing IFS, ACT, and DBT interventions in session.
If you want support with your mental health, substance use, or desire to deepen your relationship with your partner I would love to work with you to achieve a life with more peace, self-acceptance, and gratitude.
Pain and shame thrive in isolation. Reflecting on your history with curiosity, alongside a compassionate witness can alleviate feelings of lonliness, self-criticism, depression, and anxiety. I collaborate with you to create a safe container to explore your story and process pain so you can have more internal space for joy and connection. I am a psychodynamic therapist, which means being curious with you about how your past may be impacting your present. I wholeheartedly believe in harm reduction and approach treatment holistically, utilizing IFS, ACT, and DBT interventions in session.
(971) 626-1927 View (971) 626-1927
1
...
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.