Photo of Elizabeth Simmons, LCSW , DBT-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Simmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , DBT-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
I specialize in trauma, personality disorders, addiction disorders, LGBTQIA+ issues, body positivity, HIV/AIDS, forensic issues, immigrant/refugee issues, women's issues, and civil rights/social justice.
I will teach you how to live fully in each moment, be unapologetically and authentically you, cope with stress more effectively, regulate your emotions, and improve your relationships with others. My ideal client is ready to work with me, as i support and guide them. I will work with you if you feel like you're doing mostly ok, and I will work with you if you feel like you are a mess and don't even know where to start. Healing is hard work, but it's so worthwhile and I'd love to help you get to the other side and be able to live your best life as your best, most authentic self.
I specialize in trauma, personality disorders, addiction disorders, LGBTQIA+ issues, body positivity, HIV/AIDS, forensic issues, immigrant/refugee issues, women's issues, and civil rights/social justice.
I will teach you how to live fully in each moment, be unapologetically and authentically you, cope with stress more effectively, regulate your emotions, and improve your relationships with others. My ideal client is ready to work with me, as i support and guide them. I will work with you if you feel like you're doing mostly ok, and I will work with you if you feel like you are a mess and don't even know where to start. Healing is hard work, but it's so worthwhile and I'd love to help you get to the other side and be able to live your best life as your best, most authentic self.
(412) 293-0459 View (412) 293-0459
Photo of Stephanie Altomonte, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Altomonte
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
I specialize in addiction, but I have also worked with many having depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
"Life will give you whatever experience is most helpful for the evolution of your consciousness. How do you know this is the experience you need? Because this is the experience you are having at the moment." Eckhart Tolle ~ If you are having life struggles, let's talk more and see how I may help you along this journey called life. I feel a strong therapeutic relationship is the best predictor of success in therapy. I believe therapy should be collaborative and tailored to your needs. If you think I can help you along your path, please call and we can talk more.
I specialize in addiction, but I have also worked with many having depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
"Life will give you whatever experience is most helpful for the evolution of your consciousness. How do you know this is the experience you need? Because this is the experience you are having at the moment." Eckhart Tolle ~ If you are having life struggles, let's talk more and see how I may help you along this journey called life. I feel a strong therapeutic relationship is the best predictor of success in therapy. I believe therapy should be collaborative and tailored to your needs. If you think I can help you along your path, please call and we can talk more.
(412) 436-5652 View (412) 436-5652
Photo of Susan Rua, CADC, BA, MSPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Rua
Licensed Professional Counselor, CADC, BA, MSPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15211
Step by Step support offers both group and individual therapy so individuals may work out the underlying causes of their addiction problems in a comfortable and constructive environment. Individual therapy works to identify thoughts and behaviors that lead to substance abuse. Group therapy allows clients to work together on common experiences they share through their recovery and feedback with peer-to-peer input. Therapy includes: Family, Anger Management, and Interventions. We can also provide help with interventions, links to other resources in the recovery community, DUI assessments, and forensic assessments.
Step by Step support offers both group and individual therapy so individuals may work out the underlying causes of their addiction problems in a comfortable and constructive environment. Individual therapy works to identify thoughts and behaviors that lead to substance abuse. Group therapy allows clients to work together on common experiences they share through their recovery and feedback with peer-to-peer input. Therapy includes: Family, Anger Management, and Interventions. We can also provide help with interventions, links to other resources in the recovery community, DUI assessments, and forensic assessments.
(878) 206-0736 View (878) 206-0736
Photo of Amy Montgomery, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Montgomery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
I have been providing therapeutic services for adults struggling with a range of issues including substance use disorders, problems with self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationships, and grief.
In the therapeutic setting, I use an eclectic approach by blending a person-centered spirit with cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused techniques. The goal is to provide a safe space where you can explore, address, accept, and talk through life’s challenges. When we seek to, “Live life on life’s terms,” that can get complicated. It is my belief everyone needs a place to process their specific difficulties. I have a team mindset and by being part of your "WE," I can lend the professional support needed to begin the work of personal development and change. Let's find solutions for better stress management and good mental health.
I have been providing therapeutic services for adults struggling with a range of issues including substance use disorders, problems with self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationships, and grief.
In the therapeutic setting, I use an eclectic approach by blending a person-centered spirit with cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused techniques. The goal is to provide a safe space where you can explore, address, accept, and talk through life’s challenges. When we seek to, “Live life on life’s terms,” that can get complicated. It is my belief everyone needs a place to process their specific difficulties. I have a team mindset and by being part of your "WE," I can lend the professional support needed to begin the work of personal development and change. Let's find solutions for better stress management and good mental health.
(412) 285-1395 View (412) 285-1395
Photo of Colleen O'Shea, MA, CFAS, CAADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Colleen O'Shea
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, CFAS, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
I have special interest and experience working with clients with various issues including substance use, depression, anxiety, stress, anger management, trauma, and relationship and family issues.
Beyond the fear is freedom. Do you struggle with drug or alcohol abuse and/or depression or anxiety? Do you want someone who can help guide you along the path to recovery? For over 22 years, I have helped individuals find healing and understanding when they have become overwhelmed with life problems. Do you drink or use drugs to numb or escape emotional pain? Do you struggle with feeling sad, anxious, alone, or like no one understands you? You don't have to face your issues alone. I can understand what you are dealing with.
I have special interest and experience working with clients with various issues including substance use, depression, anxiety, stress, anger management, trauma, and relationship and family issues.
Beyond the fear is freedom. Do you struggle with drug or alcohol abuse and/or depression or anxiety? Do you want someone who can help guide you along the path to recovery? For over 22 years, I have helped individuals find healing and understanding when they have become overwhelmed with life problems. Do you drink or use drugs to numb or escape emotional pain? Do you struggle with feeling sad, anxious, alone, or like no one understands you? You don't have to face your issues alone. I can understand what you are dealing with.
(878) 216-0379 View (878) 216-0379
Photo of Nicole Jacobs, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Jacobs
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15241  (Online Only)
I offer services for those experiencing change and loss, depression, mood regulation, anxiety and stress as well as substance use and abuse.
Sometimes, life can be stressful and feel overwhelming. It sometimes doesn't go as we had planned. Sometimes we need guidance. My desire is to have my clients learn to handle life's "curve balls" and motivate them to develop positive coping skills in order to decrease the unraveling that can occur.
I offer services for those experiencing change and loss, depression, mood regulation, anxiety and stress as well as substance use and abuse.
Sometimes, life can be stressful and feel overwhelming. It sometimes doesn't go as we had planned. Sometimes we need guidance. My desire is to have my clients learn to handle life's "curve balls" and motivate them to develop positive coping skills in order to decrease the unraveling that can occur.
(412) 274-1787 View (412) 274-1787
Photo of Michelle Heins, CAADC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Heins
Licensed Professional Counselor, CAADC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15220
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor with 15 years’ experience, I have worked with adults focusing on substance use, dual diagnosis, pregnant/postpartum women, self-esteem and relationship issues.
Life is full of change and stress, at one time or another we have all struggled to cope with these things. Sometimes it may feel overwhelming trying to balance all the demands of life. Let’s be honest, life can be messy! You don’t have to go through these things alone. Are you looking to talk through your changes/stressors with someone that is unbiased and non-judgmental? I am passionate about helping others and am here to support you through changes and assist you in achieving a happier and healthier life.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor with 15 years’ experience, I have worked with adults focusing on substance use, dual diagnosis, pregnant/postpartum women, self-esteem and relationship issues.
Life is full of change and stress, at one time or another we have all struggled to cope with these things. Sometimes it may feel overwhelming trying to balance all the demands of life. Let’s be honest, life can be messy! You don’t have to go through these things alone. Are you looking to talk through your changes/stressors with someone that is unbiased and non-judgmental? I am passionate about helping others and am here to support you through changes and assist you in achieving a happier and healthier life.
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Photo of Betsy Callomon, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Betsy Callomon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
With the many professionals available, why work with me? First, you will find unconditional acceptance. I do not have preconceived notions of who you should, or who I need you to be. Instead, I will support you on your journey to discover who you want and deserve to be. I have experience working in both addiction recovery (chemical and food) and mental/spiritual health (trauma, depression, anxiety) so treat you as a whole person, not a diagnosis. Finally, I chose to leave another career and pursue psychotherapy so that I could do what I believe I was meant to do.
With the many professionals available, why work with me? First, you will find unconditional acceptance. I do not have preconceived notions of who you should, or who I need you to be. Instead, I will support you on your journey to discover who you want and deserve to be. I have experience working in both addiction recovery (chemical and food) and mental/spiritual health (trauma, depression, anxiety) so treat you as a whole person, not a diagnosis. Finally, I chose to leave another career and pursue psychotherapy so that I could do what I believe I was meant to do.
(412) 330-1602 View (412) 330-1602
Photo of Katie Davis, MSEd, NCC, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, NCC, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
Whether you're dealing with addiction, relationship issues, anxiety, trauma, or depression, I'm here to help.
Hi there, I'm Katie. Do you feel like you have too much on your plate, unable to find balance and manageability in your day-to-day life? Are you struggling to keep up with the many roles you play? Has anxiety, stress, or depression got the best of you? I help adolescents, adults, and couples to find manageability again. Together, we can identify what's not working, find your strengths, and transform your life. We'll use a holistic approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness and body scanning into sessions.
Whether you're dealing with addiction, relationship issues, anxiety, trauma, or depression, I'm here to help.
Hi there, I'm Katie. Do you feel like you have too much on your plate, unable to find balance and manageability in your day-to-day life? Are you struggling to keep up with the many roles you play? Has anxiety, stress, or depression got the best of you? I help adolescents, adults, and couples to find manageability again. Together, we can identify what's not working, find your strengths, and transform your life. We'll use a holistic approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness and body scanning into sessions.
(412) 534-3510 View (412) 534-3510
Photo of Diane L Winter, MA, NCC, BC-TMH, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diane L Winter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, BC-TMH, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15241  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with folks that are struggling with depression, anxiety, emotional expression, addiction, long term relationship issues.
**CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** **Now an out of state licensed registered telehealth professional in the state of Florida.** Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or pandemic related stress? Have you been meaning to make an appointment with a therapist for a while, but just haven't done it yet? I understand.... let's talk about it.
I specialize in working with folks that are struggling with depression, anxiety, emotional expression, addiction, long term relationship issues.
**CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** **Now an out of state licensed registered telehealth professional in the state of Florida.** Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or pandemic related stress? Have you been meaning to make an appointment with a therapist for a while, but just haven't done it yet? I understand.... let's talk about it.
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Photo of Tara Smith, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
Mental Health is health. You don't have to be afraid to reach out for help or continue to live your life on mute. It is okay to speak up and do what you need to in order to feel better, just as you would for a physical ailment! My office is a judgement free zone and I'm here to help you meet your goals when you're ready! I am a clinician with The Better Institute who works with individuals and with couples. I have 8 years of experience working with those who struggle with addiction whether that be drugs, alcohol, or gambling.
Mental Health is health. You don't have to be afraid to reach out for help or continue to live your life on mute. It is okay to speak up and do what you need to in order to feel better, just as you would for a physical ailment! My office is a judgement free zone and I'm here to help you meet your goals when you're ready! I am a clinician with The Better Institute who works with individuals and with couples. I have 8 years of experience working with those who struggle with addiction whether that be drugs, alcohol, or gambling.
(412) 998-8480 View (412) 998-8480
Photo of Jennifer L Streeter, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer L Streeter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15223
I have experience working with adults experiencing addiction issues, mood disorders, behavioral issues, sexual issues and relationship issues.
Each individual is universally unique which means our thoughts, feelings and perceptions are also unique. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I use a range of modalities including art, creativity, CBT, Mindfulness as well as many other approaches to meet your individual needs to help guide you toward and support your holistic wellness.
I have experience working with adults experiencing addiction issues, mood disorders, behavioral issues, sexual issues and relationship issues.
Each individual is universally unique which means our thoughts, feelings and perceptions are also unique. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I use a range of modalities including art, creativity, CBT, Mindfulness as well as many other approaches to meet your individual needs to help guide you toward and support your holistic wellness.
(878) 206-6376 View (878) 206-6376
Photo of Kristen Dieter, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Dieter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
I specialize in addiction treatment, managing symptoms of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and trauma.
An ideal client would present with their struggle in transparency, with the desire to grow, and put in the work to achieve goals. That could be managing emotions, holding a job, rebuilding relationships, or perhaps implementing more self-care. A client who wants to heal, find peace, and promote balance and autonomy. I am very easygoing, and really like to showcase my ability to promote a safe trusting environment. It is okay to feel uncomfortable or overwhelmed in life; I hope to encourage and normalize the need to take care of ourselves.
I specialize in addiction treatment, managing symptoms of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and trauma.
An ideal client would present with their struggle in transparency, with the desire to grow, and put in the work to achieve goals. That could be managing emotions, holding a job, rebuilding relationships, or perhaps implementing more self-care. A client who wants to heal, find peace, and promote balance and autonomy. I am very easygoing, and really like to showcase my ability to promote a safe trusting environment. It is okay to feel uncomfortable or overwhelmed in life; I hope to encourage and normalize the need to take care of ourselves.
(412) 790-2978 View (412) 790-2978
Photo of Rachel Diaz, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Diaz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
If you are feeling lost and out of control, or if you want to learn better ways to manage your emotions and behaviors, I can provide you with the help you need! I work with those suffering from addiction, dual diagnosis, stress-related disorders, eating disorders, OCD, anxiety, depression, adult ADHD, life transitions, trauma, grief, and mood disorders.
I am currently accepting new clients, please contact me via EMAIL ONLY. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Board-Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC). My goal is to provide you with a safe and trusting environment where you can feel fully heard and validated. I will help you learn how to create goals, process emotions, build effective coping skills, and develop the strength necessary to face and defeat your obstacles. I will support you while you create meaning out of the things you once thought you'd never overcome.
If you are feeling lost and out of control, or if you want to learn better ways to manage your emotions and behaviors, I can provide you with the help you need! I work with those suffering from addiction, dual diagnosis, stress-related disorders, eating disorders, OCD, anxiety, depression, adult ADHD, life transitions, trauma, grief, and mood disorders.
I am currently accepting new clients, please contact me via EMAIL ONLY. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Board-Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC). My goal is to provide you with a safe and trusting environment where you can feel fully heard and validated. I will help you learn how to create goals, process emotions, build effective coping skills, and develop the strength necessary to face and defeat your obstacles. I will support you while you create meaning out of the things you once thought you'd never overcome.
(878) 444-2920 View (878) 444-2920
Photo of Keri Spaw, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Keri Spaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and certified by the National Board of Certified Counselors. I work with my clients to identify realistic and attainable personal goals and encourage them through the process of change. I provide a safe and relaxed environment to process life’s complications such as substance abuse, relationship issues, phase of life difficulties, anxiety and depression, workplace struggles and more.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and certified by the National Board of Certified Counselors. I work with my clients to identify realistic and attainable personal goals and encourage them through the process of change. I provide a safe and relaxed environment to process life’s complications such as substance abuse, relationship issues, phase of life difficulties, anxiety and depression, workplace struggles and more.
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Photo of Allison Conner, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Conner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
Mental health, addiction, and chronic illness all have something in common. They can be debilitating and create cyclical habits that are difficult to break. I work with motivated individuals who are willing to make a change in their lives for the better, examine their past and present experiences and feelings, and work to find healthier ways to cope.
Mental health, addiction, and chronic illness all have something in common. They can be debilitating and create cyclical habits that are difficult to break. I work with motivated individuals who are willing to make a change in their lives for the better, examine their past and present experiences and feelings, and work to find healthier ways to cope.
(412) 801-7202 View (412) 801-7202
Photo of Madison Dobas, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Madison Dobas
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
I am a pre-licensed, Master’s level therapist who works with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, addiction, and substance use. My goal is to help clients navigate their feelings and offer a path forward to healing.
I am a pre-licensed, Master’s level therapist who works with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, addiction, and substance use. My goal is to help clients navigate their feelings and offer a path forward to healing.
(412) 912-4796 View (412) 912-4796
Photo of Meghan Ganung, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meghan Ganung
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I have experience working with clients struggling with addiction, behavioral issues, domestic violence, terminal illness, and chronic pain.
The hardest step to starting therapy is finding a therapist you feel comfortable with. Building a therapeutic relationship is a vulnerable process; sharing thoughts and emotions you might not even know within yourself. I believe I can be there to support and listen to you along your journey of self discovery and healing. Life is filled with many “bumps in the road” that present as challenges for us. This can result in feeling lost, frustrated, and confused. I am here to stand with you while tackling these obstacles from a non judgmental view.
I have experience working with clients struggling with addiction, behavioral issues, domestic violence, terminal illness, and chronic pain.
The hardest step to starting therapy is finding a therapist you feel comfortable with. Building a therapeutic relationship is a vulnerable process; sharing thoughts and emotions you might not even know within yourself. I believe I can be there to support and listen to you along your journey of self discovery and healing. Life is filled with many “bumps in the road” that present as challenges for us. This can result in feeling lost, frustrated, and confused. I am here to stand with you while tackling these obstacles from a non judgmental view.
(724) 390-6115 View (724) 390-6115
Photo of Leigh Montgomery, MS, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leigh Montgomery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
Waitlist for 2024 - I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I provide a warm, non judgmental environment for you to explore your thoughts, habits and behaviors that may be holding you back from achieving authentic happiness. I specialize in working with adults and families dealing with the effects of addiction. Substance abuse impacts all areas of your life and my goal is to help you get your life back on track, restore hope and work towards inner peace. You do not need to struggle through this on your own.
Waitlist for 2024 - I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I provide a warm, non judgmental environment for you to explore your thoughts, habits and behaviors that may be holding you back from achieving authentic happiness. I specialize in working with adults and families dealing with the effects of addiction. Substance abuse impacts all areas of your life and my goal is to help you get your life back on track, restore hope and work towards inner peace. You do not need to struggle through this on your own.
(878) 206-1965 View (878) 206-1965
Photo of Molly Mitchell, MS, LPC, CAADC, SAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Molly Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CAADC, SAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Recipient: The Ashley Addiction National Award for innovation, creativity, and dynamic thinking in the field of recovery.
Most people seek therapy when they are in a vulnerable state. In a warm and supportive atmosphere offering personal safety, I'll work with you in a highly personalized approach tailored to your specific needs. The goal is to support you in attaining personal growth that taps the best in you. I utilize both a Positive Psychology and Gestalt Therapy approach. Gestalt Therapy is an expressive, action-based approach to growth, which supports an individual's ability to notice self in the moment and understand one's meaning-making process. This is a collaborative process between therapist and client.
Recipient: The Ashley Addiction National Award for innovation, creativity, and dynamic thinking in the field of recovery.
Most people seek therapy when they are in a vulnerable state. In a warm and supportive atmosphere offering personal safety, I'll work with you in a highly personalized approach tailored to your specific needs. The goal is to support you in attaining personal growth that taps the best in you. I utilize both a Positive Psychology and Gestalt Therapy approach. Gestalt Therapy is an expressive, action-based approach to growth, which supports an individual's ability to notice self in the moment and understand one's meaning-making process. This is a collaborative process between therapist and client.
(412) 888-0467 View (412) 888-0467
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.