Photo of undefined - Robert Hawkins, LPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robert Hawkins, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15211
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's occurrances due to depression, anxiety, addiction or other issues? Do believe that you need to change but are unsure how to go about making those changes? If you answered yes to either of these questions, then call me for assistance. Every person has the ability to make changes needed to have a healthier life. Some people need assistance to determine what these changes are and how to help themselves lead healthier lives.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's occurrances due to depression, anxiety, addiction or other issues? Do believe that you need to change but are unsure how to go about making those changes? If you answered yes to either of these questions, then call me for assistance. Every person has the ability to make changes needed to have a healthier life. Some people need assistance to determine what these changes are and how to help themselves lead healthier lives.
(412) 214-8916 View (412) 214-8916
Photo of Andrew Oostdyk, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrew Oostdyk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
My ideal client is one with motivation for self-care, openness to change, and a desire to learn more about themselves and others. My ideal population consists of adults with a mental health diagnosis of anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use disorder, and other increasingly complex diagnoses. However, I am also devoted to assisting those seeking help without a defined diagnosis and who are beginning therapy without a clear vision of treatment needs. I welcome working with anyone who may benefit from my skillset who is dealing with life’s many challenges and searching for a clearer definition and understanding of their stressors.
My ideal client is one with motivation for self-care, openness to change, and a desire to learn more about themselves and others. My ideal population consists of adults with a mental health diagnosis of anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use disorder, and other increasingly complex diagnoses. However, I am also devoted to assisting those seeking help without a defined diagnosis and who are beginning therapy without a clear vision of treatment needs. I welcome working with anyone who may benefit from my skillset who is dealing with life’s many challenges and searching for a clearer definition and understanding of their stressors.
(412) 844-5749 View (412) 844-5749
Photo of undefined - Andrew J. Eppich LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrew J. Eppich LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
I offer group therapy for families who have lost a loved one to addiction and alcoholism.
I am an LCSW that has been in the field of counseling and social work since 1995. I am of the belief that everyone deserves help and support with dignity and respect. I specialize in addictions, gambling addiction, dual diagnosis, GLBT issues, grief and bereavement issues as well as have over 15 years experience in hospice and helping patients and their families cope with end of life issues. In addition I have expertise in group counseling for early recovery, families in recovery and grief support.
I offer group therapy for families who have lost a loved one to addiction and alcoholism.
I am an LCSW that has been in the field of counseling and social work since 1995. I am of the belief that everyone deserves help and support with dignity and respect. I specialize in addictions, gambling addiction, dual diagnosis, GLBT issues, grief and bereavement issues as well as have over 15 years experience in hospice and helping patients and their families cope with end of life issues. In addition I have expertise in group counseling for early recovery, families in recovery and grief support.
(412) 567-3552 View (412) 567-3552
Photo of Christopher P Smith, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher P Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Each of us each and every day is confronted with significant life difficulties. We can become overwhelmed and unable to cope with what appears to be insurmountable problems. My approach to counseling and consultation is that of a life coach assisting and supporting each person in learning new ways to deal with life difficulties and reach ones full potential. Most of us can benefit from a coach from time to time to help us deal with issues such as: relationships, parenting, adolescent struggles, substance misuse, abuse or addiction, anxiety and depression. Tomorrow can be different than today!
Each of us each and every day is confronted with significant life difficulties. We can become overwhelmed and unable to cope with what appears to be insurmountable problems. My approach to counseling and consultation is that of a life coach assisting and supporting each person in learning new ways to deal with life difficulties and reach ones full potential. Most of us can benefit from a coach from time to time to help us deal with issues such as: relationships, parenting, adolescent struggles, substance misuse, abuse or addiction, anxiety and depression. Tomorrow can be different than today!
(412) 228-0601 View (412) 228-0601
Photo of undefined - Frank Bienkowski at True to You Counseling, MSEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Frank Bienkowski at True to You Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Though my perspective has been shaped primarily through the addiction model, I haven't limited myself to working solely with addicts and other members of addictive family systems.
Beginning in January 2024, my valued colleague, Jennifer Huffman and I are launching a combined practice that will be known as True to You. Each of us brings 20+ years of experience in the helping professions into this new venture. Both Jennifer and I have a background in addictions treatment, working together at Gateway Rehabilitation Center for 8 years. In the past decade we have both expanded our focus into other areas of therapeutic work. A common thread of purpose in our work has been to assist our clients in actively living from a more authentic sense of themselves. We hope to help you along on your path to being true to you.
Though my perspective has been shaped primarily through the addiction model, I haven't limited myself to working solely with addicts and other members of addictive family systems.
Beginning in January 2024, my valued colleague, Jennifer Huffman and I are launching a combined practice that will be known as True to You. Each of us brings 20+ years of experience in the helping professions into this new venture. Both Jennifer and I have a background in addictions treatment, working together at Gateway Rehabilitation Center for 8 years. In the past decade we have both expanded our focus into other areas of therapeutic work. A common thread of purpose in our work has been to assist our clients in actively living from a more authentic sense of themselves. We hope to help you along on your path to being true to you.
(412) 532-1784 View (412) 532-1784
Photo of Nathan Russell Earl, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nathan Russell Earl
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15212  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have worked with individuals struggling with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, anger, grief and addiction. I aim to create a safe, supportive environment for my clients to process their emotions, and to create positive change in their lives. I hope to help my clients gain a healthier relationship with themselves by challenging their critical self-talk. I have worked with may people who think and say harsh, or even cruel things to themselves; that they would never say to another person, or a friend.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have worked with individuals struggling with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, anger, grief and addiction. I aim to create a safe, supportive environment for my clients to process their emotions, and to create positive change in their lives. I hope to help my clients gain a healthier relationship with themselves by challenging their critical self-talk. I have worked with may people who think and say harsh, or even cruel things to themselves; that they would never say to another person, or a friend.
(412) 301-9147 View (412) 301-9147
Photo of Jared P Fretz, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jared P Fretz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238  (Online Only)
We all want to live a good life and be the best version of ourselves. However, sometimes we get stuck and need help with some roadblock or another. Whether it be due to anxiety or depression, relationship issues, or problems with an addictive behavior or substance I will work to help you become your best self. I believe that you have the answers to your problems and that together we can bring these answers to light.
We all want to live a good life and be the best version of ourselves. However, sometimes we get stuck and need help with some roadblock or another. Whether it be due to anxiety or depression, relationship issues, or problems with an addictive behavior or substance I will work to help you become your best self. I believe that you have the answers to your problems and that together we can bring these answers to light.
(724) 888-5311 View (724) 888-5311
Photo of Nathan Piccolomini, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nathan Piccolomini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217  (Online Only)
These models are recognized as being highly effective for treating stress, anxiety, depression, and substance abuse/addiction issues.
The concept of therapy can be intimidating... My goal is to make it comfortable for you to discuss your situations by providing an honest, non-judgmental atmosphere, while offering support and validation. Throughout my career, I have helped individuals cope with stress, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, as well as grief and loss, problems within family systems and relationships, and trauma-related issues. I have helped individuals dealing with addictions and substance abuse, and have also helped young adults in higher education transition to new environments and social settings.
These models are recognized as being highly effective for treating stress, anxiety, depression, and substance abuse/addiction issues.
The concept of therapy can be intimidating... My goal is to make it comfortable for you to discuss your situations by providing an honest, non-judgmental atmosphere, while offering support and validation. Throughout my career, I have helped individuals cope with stress, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, as well as grief and loss, problems within family systems and relationships, and trauma-related issues. I have helped individuals dealing with addictions and substance abuse, and have also helped young adults in higher education transition to new environments and social settings.
(724) 705-0217 View (724) 705-0217
Photo of Jordan Lief, PsyD, CSAT, Psychologist
Jordan Lief
Psychologist, PsyD, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
I have extensive experience treating people struggling with sex addiction, love addiction, and compulsive sexual behavior.
I have successfully treated people struggling with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma/PTSD, loss of a loved one, sexual difficulties, and relationship distress. I work with individuals, couples, and families, with the goal of helping people become more aware of and more comfortable with themselves and others. Life is complex, and I enjoy the challenges of assisting people through their unpredictable journeys. I create a supportive therapeutic environment where my clients feel safe to explore themselves, their relationships, and the world around them.
I have extensive experience treating people struggling with sex addiction, love addiction, and compulsive sexual behavior.
I have successfully treated people struggling with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma/PTSD, loss of a loved one, sexual difficulties, and relationship distress. I work with individuals, couples, and families, with the goal of helping people become more aware of and more comfortable with themselves and others. Life is complex, and I enjoy the challenges of assisting people through their unpredictable journeys. I create a supportive therapeutic environment where my clients feel safe to explore themselves, their relationships, and the world around them.
(610) 915-8043 View (610) 915-8043
Photo of Patrick James Schuler, LCSW, LAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patrick James Schuler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15220  (Online Only)
I’m also a licensed Addiction Counselor; this practice has provided me the opportunity to work with individuals struggling with a substance abuse, ranging from inpatient treatment, to people who are just starting to question their substance use patterns.
My counseling experiences over the years have been incredibly enriching and meaningful. I am continually moved by the varying degrees of challenging life experiences that we are all tasked with navigating and the ways we attempt to cope, gain insight from, and hopefully transform our adverse circumstances. I’ve had the opportunity to assist a diverse range of clients in both inpatient treatment and outpatient therapy settings. Within these programs I’ve helped clients address anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, academic challenges, relationships, identity changes, sexuality, and general life stressors.
I’m also a licensed Addiction Counselor; this practice has provided me the opportunity to work with individuals struggling with a substance abuse, ranging from inpatient treatment, to people who are just starting to question their substance use patterns.
My counseling experiences over the years have been incredibly enriching and meaningful. I am continually moved by the varying degrees of challenging life experiences that we are all tasked with navigating and the ways we attempt to cope, gain insight from, and hopefully transform our adverse circumstances. I’ve had the opportunity to assist a diverse range of clients in both inpatient treatment and outpatient therapy settings. Within these programs I’ve helped clients address anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, academic challenges, relationships, identity changes, sexuality, and general life stressors.
(717) 400-6294 View (717) 400-6294
Photo of David Juncos, PsyD, Psychologist
David Juncos
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15220  (Online Only)
I work with people who experience symptoms from a wide variety of clinical disorders (Anxiety, Substance Use Disorders, AD/HD and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, and others) and common non-clinical problems (perfectionism, self-criticism and shame, problematic anger, marital or relationship distress).
Hi - my name is David Juncos, I'm a licensed clinical psychologist in PA & NJ. Thank you for visiting my page, I take great pride in being able to help people work through their issues successfully! I believe the best therapy is a combination of an empathic interpersonal style with the proper application of evidence-based approaches. Together, we will work towards accomplishing your goals at your own pace, in a comfortable setting.
I work with people who experience symptoms from a wide variety of clinical disorders (Anxiety, Substance Use Disorders, AD/HD and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, and others) and common non-clinical problems (perfectionism, self-criticism and shame, problematic anger, marital or relationship distress).
Hi - my name is David Juncos, I'm a licensed clinical psychologist in PA & NJ. Thank you for visiting my page, I take great pride in being able to help people work through their issues successfully! I believe the best therapy is a combination of an empathic interpersonal style with the proper application of evidence-based approaches. Together, we will work towards accomplishing your goals at your own pace, in a comfortable setting.
(484) 613-3489 View (484) 613-3489
Photo of Kevin Basil, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kevin Basil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Life can be so hard. It shouldn't be, but it is. Our current culture breeds depression, anxiety, ADHD, addiction, and so much more. We weren't meant to live this way and to confront the constant stream of stressors we face on a daily basis. 40+ hour work weeks, struggling to make ends meet, supporting others while we struggle to support ourselves, unexpected life events, financial instability, always reaching and striving for the next benchmark, promotion, or grade. The list goes on and on and it often feels overwhelming and impossible. Let's get you to a place where you can better navigate all this chaos and be able to breathe!
Life can be so hard. It shouldn't be, but it is. Our current culture breeds depression, anxiety, ADHD, addiction, and so much more. We weren't meant to live this way and to confront the constant stream of stressors we face on a daily basis. 40+ hour work weeks, struggling to make ends meet, supporting others while we struggle to support ourselves, unexpected life events, financial instability, always reaching and striving for the next benchmark, promotion, or grade. The list goes on and on and it often feels overwhelming and impossible. Let's get you to a place where you can better navigate all this chaos and be able to breathe!
(412) 501-2908 View (412) 501-2908
Photo of James R Ballester, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
James R Ballester
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15220  (Online Only)
Perhaps you struggle with depression or anxiety and are overwhelmed trying to manage the stress of daily living. You may find yourself resorting to substance use or other compulsive behaviors as a form of coping with daily stressors. You are committed to change and have tried to change, but lack the deeper awareness of what is driving the behaviors. It can be disheartening to acknowledge the unwanted impact on your life and on your valued relationships.
Perhaps you struggle with depression or anxiety and are overwhelmed trying to manage the stress of daily living. You may find yourself resorting to substance use or other compulsive behaviors as a form of coping with daily stressors. You are committed to change and have tried to change, but lack the deeper awareness of what is driving the behaviors. It can be disheartening to acknowledge the unwanted impact on your life and on your valued relationships.
(484) 214-2318 View (484) 214-2318
Photo of Desmond Alexander Kane, LPC , NCC, CADC, CIP, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Desmond Alexander Kane
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , NCC, CADC, CIP, CCTP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating complex family issues, substance use disorders, dual diagnosis, ADHD, anxiety, & helping people overcome unhelpful personality traits.
“I just want a change that will work!” That’s a phrase that I have heard many times over my 10+ years in this field. If you desire real change and want help through this process I offer laughter filled, person-centered, evidence based interventions and guidance.
I specialize in treating complex family issues, substance use disorders, dual diagnosis, ADHD, anxiety, & helping people overcome unhelpful personality traits.
“I just want a change that will work!” That’s a phrase that I have heard many times over my 10+ years in this field. If you desire real change and want help through this process I offer laughter filled, person-centered, evidence based interventions and guidance.
(814) 546-5651 View (814) 546-5651
Photo of William Bendgen, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
William Bendgen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I will utilize these approaches in order to address various issues related to anxiety, depression, addiction, self-esteem, anger, relationship issues etc.
Unfortunately previous negative experiences with counseling can impact one's decision to seek out treatment again. Therapy isn't about walking into a room because of needing to be "fixed". Therapy is a collaborative approach that begin's with me creating a safe, comfortable, and non judgmental environment. I will always recognize the person before the behavior that we are working to change. My hope at the end of each session is to assist with enhancing your strengths to elicit long term change.
I will utilize these approaches in order to address various issues related to anxiety, depression, addiction, self-esteem, anger, relationship issues etc.
Unfortunately previous negative experiences with counseling can impact one's decision to seek out treatment again. Therapy isn't about walking into a room because of needing to be "fixed". Therapy is a collaborative approach that begin's with me creating a safe, comfortable, and non judgmental environment. I will always recognize the person before the behavior that we are working to change. My hope at the end of each session is to assist with enhancing your strengths to elicit long term change.
(878) 218-9617 View (878) 218-9617
Photo of Greg Gayda, MSEd, CAADC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Greg Gayda
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, CAADC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15122
Greg was born and raised in Pittsburgh and graduated from Duquesne University with degrees in Psychology and Sociology, and Counseling. He is an experienced therapist and clinical supervisor with a background that ranges from teenagers to seniors, spanning both mental health and substance abuse. He has worked in foster care, drug & alcohol/recovery, and mental health settings. Greg uses a person-centered approach to help people through a wide variety of life events and struggles. He has facilitated groups on mental health, abuse, anger, healthy relationship skills, family issues, and works on an individual and family basis.
Greg was born and raised in Pittsburgh and graduated from Duquesne University with degrees in Psychology and Sociology, and Counseling. He is an experienced therapist and clinical supervisor with a background that ranges from teenagers to seniors, spanning both mental health and substance abuse. He has worked in foster care, drug & alcohol/recovery, and mental health settings. Greg uses a person-centered approach to help people through a wide variety of life events and struggles. He has facilitated groups on mental health, abuse, anger, healthy relationship skills, family issues, and works on an individual and family basis.
(724) 251-5885 View (724) 251-5885
Photo of Andrew Dyer, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew Dyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
Are you experiencing depression/anxiety, career issues, substance use issues, relationship issues, and familial issues? Your needs may include identifying and implementing new ways of coping, exploring career options, finding a treatment facility, or acquiring new insights regarding your spouse/family member. A client would work with me to address areas in their life that are contributing to stressors.
Are you experiencing depression/anxiety, career issues, substance use issues, relationship issues, and familial issues? Your needs may include identifying and implementing new ways of coping, exploring career options, finding a treatment facility, or acquiring new insights regarding your spouse/family member. A client would work with me to address areas in their life that are contributing to stressors.
(412) 753-7459 View (412) 753-7459
Photo of David Prybock, PhD, Psychologist
David Prybock
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
My areas of specialization include: Anger Management,Anxiety/Stress, Depression,Eating Disorders, Grief/Loss, Life Transition, Men's Issues, Pain Management, Relationships/Trust Issues, Self-Esteem/Shame Issues, Self Improvement, Sexual Issues, including Sex Addiction, Substance Abuse Issues, Trauma and Trauma-Related Issues, and Weight Management.
Do you want to improve your relationship, have less stress, or simply gain insight about yourself so that you can be happier and live a more fulfilling life? Change is difficult, especially when we try to do it alone. I am a Licensed Psychologist who offers individual and group therapy that are designed to help you be happier. My aim is to provide you with the knowledge and skills that will help you achieve change. Working together, we will utilize the strengths you already have and target those aspects of yourself that you want to change the most.
My areas of specialization include: Anger Management,Anxiety/Stress, Depression,Eating Disorders, Grief/Loss, Life Transition, Men's Issues, Pain Management, Relationships/Trust Issues, Self-Esteem/Shame Issues, Self Improvement, Sexual Issues, including Sex Addiction, Substance Abuse Issues, Trauma and Trauma-Related Issues, and Weight Management.
Do you want to improve your relationship, have less stress, or simply gain insight about yourself so that you can be happier and live a more fulfilling life? Change is difficult, especially when we try to do it alone. I am a Licensed Psychologist who offers individual and group therapy that are designed to help you be happier. My aim is to provide you with the knowledge and skills that will help you achieve change. Working together, we will utilize the strengths you already have and target those aspects of yourself that you want to change the most.
(412) 228-0094 View (412) 228-0094
Photo of Douglas Thomas, MEd, MSCC, LPC, Counselor
Douglas Thomas
Counselor, MEd, MSCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15227  (Online Only)
Each person's therapy needs are unique, and I will try my best to meet your specific needs, whether you're looking for a space to explore and process your thoughts and feelings or something more goal driven and solution focused. And if you're not sure what you're looking for, we'll work together to figure that out. Regardless of how we proceed, using an integrative model of therapy, I'll offer you an inclusive space that is kind, free of judgment, and focused on your personal strengths. I've worked with numerous individuals experiencing mood and anxiety concerns, addiction, trauma, and severe a debilitating mental health issues.
Each person's therapy needs are unique, and I will try my best to meet your specific needs, whether you're looking for a space to explore and process your thoughts and feelings or something more goal driven and solution focused. And if you're not sure what you're looking for, we'll work together to figure that out. Regardless of how we proceed, using an integrative model of therapy, I'll offer you an inclusive space that is kind, free of judgment, and focused on your personal strengths. I've worked with numerous individuals experiencing mood and anxiety concerns, addiction, trauma, and severe a debilitating mental health issues.
(412) 838-4025 View (412) 838-4025
Photo of Howard F Hansell, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Howard F Hansell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15222  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing high levels of stress, anxiety and burnout? Is life feeling a bit too much for you right now and leading to depression, low energy, decreased productivity and interpersonal relationship problems? Would you like to take some time to get your life back from all of this? Better days are ahead, and I am here to help! I am a professional counselor licensed in Pennsylvania with over 20 years of experience helping clients with a diverse set of concerns including depression, anxiety, career issues, stress management, substance abuse, work-life balance, and bereavement.
Are you experiencing high levels of stress, anxiety and burnout? Is life feeling a bit too much for you right now and leading to depression, low energy, decreased productivity and interpersonal relationship problems? Would you like to take some time to get your life back from all of this? Better days are ahead, and I am here to help! I am a professional counselor licensed in Pennsylvania with over 20 years of experience helping clients with a diverse set of concerns including depression, anxiety, career issues, stress management, substance abuse, work-life balance, and bereavement.
(484) 673-6036 View (484) 673-6036
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.