Addiction Therapists in Nashville, TN

Photo of Amy Narusas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Narusas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37204
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Master of Social Work degree with a specialization in mental health and substance use disorders. I have experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings with adults struggling with co-morbid mental health and substance use disorders. I have a passion for continuing education and I enjoy learning about new techniques and research to provide evidence-based treatment and best practices. I am a big believer in finding balance within life’s ups and downs and I understand the importance of processing thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a safe and meaningful way.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Master of Social Work degree with a specialization in mental health and substance use disorders. I have experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings with adults struggling with co-morbid mental health and substance use disorders. I have a passion for continuing education and I enjoy learning about new techniques and research to provide evidence-based treatment and best practices. I am a big believer in finding balance within life’s ups and downs and I understand the importance of processing thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a safe and meaningful way.
(615) 454-9914 View (615) 454-9914
Photo of Trey M French, LADACII, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Trey M French
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADACII
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37216  (Online Only)
Have you or someone you love been impacted by substance use in a negative way? Are you curious about what changes you can make to understand and address Substance Use Disorder? Are you unsure of what to do next or where to begin? I’m Trey, a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor, and I am here to help. The decision to engage in therapy is a difficult and commendable choice. I’m committed to providing a safe and validating atmosphere to honor this sacred journey. My practice is a space for individuals who are in early or ongoing recovery and those that love them.
Have you or someone you love been impacted by substance use in a negative way? Are you curious about what changes you can make to understand and address Substance Use Disorder? Are you unsure of what to do next or where to begin? I’m Trey, a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor, and I am here to help. The decision to engage in therapy is a difficult and commendable choice. I’m committed to providing a safe and validating atmosphere to honor this sacred journey. My practice is a space for individuals who are in early or ongoing recovery and those that love them.
(615) 392-4686 View (615) 392-4686
Photo of Tammy Stone - Tammy Stone at Stone Counseling & Consulting, LPCMHSP, LADACII, QCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tammy Stone at Stone Counseling & Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, LADACII, QCS
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37214
I am a Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor, specializing in addictions, trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Many times life throws us unexpected curve balls, and if we can catch them, we find that with a little help we come out much stronger, wiser, and ready to embrace life for a better future. I want to help you do that very thing. I have been a therapist for 30 years and I enjoy helping people find new dreams out what they believe to be lost possibilities. I have also raised four wonderful children and am personally familiar with life's seeming messiness that can evolve in ways we could not have predicted.
I am a Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor, specializing in addictions, trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Many times life throws us unexpected curve balls, and if we can catch them, we find that with a little help we come out much stronger, wiser, and ready to embrace life for a better future. I want to help you do that very thing. I have been a therapist for 30 years and I enjoy helping people find new dreams out what they believe to be lost possibilities. I have also raised four wonderful children and am personally familiar with life's seeming messiness that can evolve in ways we could not have predicted.
(615) 351-6285 View (615) 351-6285
Photo of Kimberlee Massey-Owen, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberlee Massey-Owen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
I am passionate about those from all walks of life and addressing a variety of issues such as addiction, anxiety, relational issues, grief, and transitions.
Life can be complicated, overwhelming, challenging, and messy. People don’t tend to fit in neat little boxes, but I find that beautiful. The people I comes in contact with never cease to amaze and inspire me with their stories, struggles, and victories. I am committed to creating a safe and nonjudgemental space for people to explore healing and reconnect with themselves, others, and with hope beyond ourselves. My focus is relational and I believe this is the most healing aspect of any treatment modal. “We are wounded in relationship, and we heal in relationship.”
I am passionate about those from all walks of life and addressing a variety of issues such as addiction, anxiety, relational issues, grief, and transitions.
Life can be complicated, overwhelming, challenging, and messy. People don’t tend to fit in neat little boxes, but I find that beautiful. The people I comes in contact with never cease to amaze and inspire me with their stories, struggles, and victories. I am committed to creating a safe and nonjudgemental space for people to explore healing and reconnect with themselves, others, and with hope beyond ourselves. My focus is relational and I believe this is the most healing aspect of any treatment modal. “We are wounded in relationship, and we heal in relationship.”
(530) 240-7801 View (530) 240-7801
Photo of Ebonye Dillard - Wildleaf Counseling & Reiki, LADAC 2, Reiki, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Wildleaf Counseling & Reiki
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADAC 2, Reiki
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37202
The best way to beat addiction is with community and support from those who genuinely care.
No one wakes up and thinks "I want to become an Addict." Life takes us by surprise sometimes and it often gets messy and confusing, but you don't have to do this alone. Most of my clients are looking to restore areas of their lives stolen by addiction: family, careers, legal, and self-respect. They also seek help finding the root cause of the addiction in order to prevent further damage. Healing the whole person mentally, emotionally, and spiritually is of top priority. Let me help you!
The best way to beat addiction is with community and support from those who genuinely care.
No one wakes up and thinks "I want to become an Addict." Life takes us by surprise sometimes and it often gets messy and confusing, but you don't have to do this alone. Most of my clients are looking to restore areas of their lives stolen by addiction: family, careers, legal, and self-respect. They also seek help finding the root cause of the addiction in order to prevent further damage. Healing the whole person mentally, emotionally, and spiritually is of top priority. Let me help you!
(629) 276-6924 View (629) 276-6924
Photo of Elliott Dombrosky, LADAC 2, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Elliott Dombrosky
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADAC 2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
Hey there, great job at taking the time to focus on your self-care! I know this process can be scary but let’s see if we can walk through it together. I work with a wide variety of clients that have been affected by substance use & addiction(individual struggling themselves or their support systems & those affected by their use). Whether you’re not sure about this whole therapy thing or you know it’s time to make a change, you don’t have to figure out your next steps alone. I have experience in working with the LGBTQ+ community in providing gender & trauma informed care while working towards a happy and fulfilled life.
Hey there, great job at taking the time to focus on your self-care! I know this process can be scary but let’s see if we can walk through it together. I work with a wide variety of clients that have been affected by substance use & addiction(individual struggling themselves or their support systems & those affected by their use). Whether you’re not sure about this whole therapy thing or you know it’s time to make a change, you don’t have to figure out your next steps alone. I have experience in working with the LGBTQ+ community in providing gender & trauma informed care while working towards a happy and fulfilled life.
(629) 205-0610 View (629) 205-0610
Photo of Melissa Bonner, Pre-Licensed Professional
Melissa Bonner
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37208  (Online Only)
I know how overwhelming it can feel to struggle with mental health and substance use.
As a therapist, I create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions. My approach is empathetic and client-centered, recognizing that each journey is unique and requires a tailored approach. I integrate evidence-based practices like CBT, DBT, and ACT with creative therapies like Art Therapy, addressing both emotional and practical aspects of your mental health. I’m here to help you manage symptoms, build resilience, and work towards lasting, meaningful change.
I know how overwhelming it can feel to struggle with mental health and substance use.
As a therapist, I create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions. My approach is empathetic and client-centered, recognizing that each journey is unique and requires a tailored approach. I integrate evidence-based practices like CBT, DBT, and ACT with creative therapies like Art Therapy, addressing both emotional and practical aspects of your mental health. I’m here to help you manage symptoms, build resilience, and work towards lasting, meaningful change.
(629) 348-3717 View (629) 348-3717
Photo of Allison Bassham - Ascend Counseling, PLLC, MMFT, LPC, CTT, CMAT, CSAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ascend Counseling, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LPC, CTT, CMAT, CSAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37220
Clayton is also certified in trauma therapy (CTT), a multiple addiction therapist (CMAT), and a sex addiction therapist (CSAT).
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** At Ascend Counseling, PLLC we believe that all people deserve a place to come as they are. As seasoned therapists, we provide a safe, collaborative experience for our clients combining empathy with professional excellence to guide the therapeutic process. Many therapeutic practices simply help you manage your symptoms and/or survive the next crisis. But at Ascend Counseling, PLLC, we believe that therapists should offer more. We will work with you to identify and address the root issues that perpetuate interpersonal problems. With us, you'll get to the bottom of things so that you can move forward!
Clayton is also certified in trauma therapy (CTT), a multiple addiction therapist (CMAT), and a sex addiction therapist (CSAT).
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** At Ascend Counseling, PLLC we believe that all people deserve a place to come as they are. As seasoned therapists, we provide a safe, collaborative experience for our clients combining empathy with professional excellence to guide the therapeutic process. Many therapeutic practices simply help you manage your symptoms and/or survive the next crisis. But at Ascend Counseling, PLLC, we believe that therapists should offer more. We will work with you to identify and address the root issues that perpetuate interpersonal problems. With us, you'll get to the bottom of things so that you can move forward!
(615) 913-5958 View (615) 913-5958
Photo of Hansell Holt, MS, LPC, MHSP, (t), Pre-Licensed Professional
Hansell Holt
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC, MHSP, (t)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37208
I've worked extensively in the addictions field and have experience addressing substance use, depression, anxiety, and issues of self-worth.
Being human. Along with the beautiful parts of life comes pain, struggle, and trauma. Everyone deserves a safe person with whom they can address these things and achieve real healing. Real relief. My first goal when beginning work with clients is to create that place where they can be their authentic selves...and feel accepted. To give them unconditional support without judgement. With this relationship formed, the deeper and holistic work can begin. Healing can happen. If you're struggling with self-esteem, trauma, mood disorders, substance use...or just struggling at all, we can work together to help you find peace.
I've worked extensively in the addictions field and have experience addressing substance use, depression, anxiety, and issues of self-worth.
Being human. Along with the beautiful parts of life comes pain, struggle, and trauma. Everyone deserves a safe person with whom they can address these things and achieve real healing. Real relief. My first goal when beginning work with clients is to create that place where they can be their authentic selves...and feel accepted. To give them unconditional support without judgement. With this relationship formed, the deeper and holistic work can begin. Healing can happen. If you're struggling with self-esteem, trauma, mood disorders, substance use...or just struggling at all, we can work together to help you find peace.
(615) 282-5351 View (615) 282-5351
Photo of Elizabeth Porter - Entertainment Health Services, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Entertainment Health Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37209
Entertainment Health Services specializes in counseling creatives in the Nashville area, focusing on the compounding pressures of balancing life with stress specific to the entertainment industry. Some areas of practice include; relationship problems, relief from depression, anxiety, grief and loss, effective communication skills, conflict resolution, substance abuse, family therapy, maintaining creativity, and time management.
Entertainment Health Services specializes in counseling creatives in the Nashville area, focusing on the compounding pressures of balancing life with stress specific to the entertainment industry. Some areas of practice include; relationship problems, relief from depression, anxiety, grief and loss, effective communication skills, conflict resolution, substance abuse, family therapy, maintaining creativity, and time management.
(615) 454-9852 View (615) 454-9852
Photo of Carissa Bartnick, LADC II, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Carissa Bartnick
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Hello and welcome! I believe we all have inherent worth and value, but our perception of our worth can be impacted by trauma, stress, and mental health concerns. Life is often challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. I utilize attachment-focused, experiential, somatic, mindfulness, and other modalities to promote healing and realignment with our authentic selves. I specialize in helping people navigate trauma processing, substance use and addiction, eating disorders, codependency, anxiety, depression, relationship and intimacy issues, and family of origin concerns. I enjoy working with adults, teens, couples, and families.
Hello and welcome! I believe we all have inherent worth and value, but our perception of our worth can be impacted by trauma, stress, and mental health concerns. Life is often challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. I utilize attachment-focused, experiential, somatic, mindfulness, and other modalities to promote healing and realignment with our authentic selves. I specialize in helping people navigate trauma processing, substance use and addiction, eating disorders, codependency, anxiety, depression, relationship and intimacy issues, and family of origin concerns. I enjoy working with adults, teens, couples, and families.
(615) 285-6835 View (615) 285-6835
Photo of Jeffrey Allan Browning, LADACII, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Jeffrey Allan Browning
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADACII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37205
I focus on issues related to emotional sobriety, as well as working with family members in need of support and guidance around their loved one's addiction.
Do you or someone you love struggle with addiction? My passion is working with individuals and families dealing with drug and alcohol abuse. Feelings of shame, anger, and confusion are common when faced with this illness. You are not alone! For the past 20 years, I have worked with the best addiction professionals in the country, and bring their collective knowledge and compassion to each individual that I work with. Every client is different, and what works for one person, may not work for another. Together, we can find a solution so you can reclaim your life and your purpose.
I focus on issues related to emotional sobriety, as well as working with family members in need of support and guidance around their loved one's addiction.
Do you or someone you love struggle with addiction? My passion is working with individuals and families dealing with drug and alcohol abuse. Feelings of shame, anger, and confusion are common when faced with this illness. You are not alone! For the past 20 years, I have worked with the best addiction professionals in the country, and bring their collective knowledge and compassion to each individual that I work with. Every client is different, and what works for one person, may not work for another. Together, we can find a solution so you can reclaim your life and your purpose.
(615) 236-6766 View (615) 236-6766
Photo of Brad Smith, MA, LADACII, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Brad Smith
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LADACII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37214  (Online Only)
Overcoming alcohol and drug addiction is no easy feat.
Have you promised yourself or others that you will cut back or refrain from drinking alcohol or using drugs? Are you frustrated with repeating the same old cycle? Do you feel like you have let yourself or others down? Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? There is hope.
Overcoming alcohol and drug addiction is no easy feat.
Have you promised yourself or others that you will cut back or refrain from drinking alcohol or using drugs? Are you frustrated with repeating the same old cycle? Do you feel like you have let yourself or others down? Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? There is hope.
(615) 857-5521 View (615) 857-5521
Photo of Mary Margaret Davis, LMSW
Mary Margaret Davis
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
It can feel scary to explore the parts of ourselves that we have pushed away or suppressed. I have a passion for helping individuals who are struggling with anxiety, addiction, or trauma. A goal of mine is to help you get to the root of your challenges so you can feel more comfortable in your body. I place a large emphasis on building our therapeutic relationship in order for you to feel comfortable expressing yourself freely.
It can feel scary to explore the parts of ourselves that we have pushed away or suppressed. I have a passion for helping individuals who are struggling with anxiety, addiction, or trauma. A goal of mine is to help you get to the root of your challenges so you can feel more comfortable in your body. I place a large emphasis on building our therapeutic relationship in order for you to feel comfortable expressing yourself freely.
(629) 209-1787 View (629) 209-1787
Photo of Angela Tamayo, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Tamayo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37211  (Online Only)
I would love to meet you and help with your mental health and substance abuse needs and get you on your way to living your best life.
My passion is to see my clients being successful in healing and thriving. From my experience, each individual has unique needs. I work with clients to address such needs with tailored therapies, counseling, and education. I am a bilingual therapist and counselor who approaches humans with empathy, dignity, and no judgment. I am fluent in both English and Spanish and see clients in both languages. I use evidence-based therapies to meet the needs of individuals, families, and groups.
I would love to meet you and help with your mental health and substance abuse needs and get you on your way to living your best life.
My passion is to see my clients being successful in healing and thriving. From my experience, each individual has unique needs. I work with clients to address such needs with tailored therapies, counseling, and education. I am a bilingual therapist and counselor who approaches humans with empathy, dignity, and no judgment. I am fluent in both English and Spanish and see clients in both languages. I use evidence-based therapies to meet the needs of individuals, families, and groups.
(615) 709-0873 View (615) 709-0873
Photo of Sonya Adkins, MA-CMHC
Sonya Adkins
MA-CMHC
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37204
Areas of clinical interests include, but are not limited to, life transitions/rebranding, managing stress, anxiety, & depression, substance use disorders, relational issues, self-esteem, & healthy boundaries.
We all at times feel inadequate, have a loss of direction, identity, and/or authenticity which transitions into a loss of real relationship. Our feelings, anxiety, depression, life losses, medical conditions, and other mental health challenges can knock us off balance. I am here to walk alongside others in finding a healthy path and learning to deal with reality in a positive way. My goal is to equip clients with healthy tools to live their best lives- a life that is true to themselves, that is whole, authentic, and empowering, providing contentment & fulfillment.
Areas of clinical interests include, but are not limited to, life transitions/rebranding, managing stress, anxiety, & depression, substance use disorders, relational issues, self-esteem, & healthy boundaries.
We all at times feel inadequate, have a loss of direction, identity, and/or authenticity which transitions into a loss of real relationship. Our feelings, anxiety, depression, life losses, medical conditions, and other mental health challenges can knock us off balance. I am here to walk alongside others in finding a healthy path and learning to deal with reality in a positive way. My goal is to equip clients with healthy tools to live their best lives- a life that is true to themselves, that is whole, authentic, and empowering, providing contentment & fulfillment.
(615) 434-5024 View (615) 434-5024
Photo of Jason Hancock, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jason Hancock
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
My areas of special clinical interest include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and addictions including sex and pornography.
Weakness. Shame. Fear. Pain. Stigma. Just thinking about seeing a therapist can bring up these emotions for individuals or couples struggling with addictions, relationship or parenting issues, caregiving, abuse, infidelity… Thank goodness times are changing, mental health is being prioritized, and it's OK to not be OK. If you're struggling, help is available. I am fully-licensed, with a Masters' Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Lipscomb University. I'd love to talk with you. I offer sessions in-person or via telehealth. Call me at 615-414-6210.
My areas of special clinical interest include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and addictions including sex and pornography.
Weakness. Shame. Fear. Pain. Stigma. Just thinking about seeing a therapist can bring up these emotions for individuals or couples struggling with addictions, relationship or parenting issues, caregiving, abuse, infidelity… Thank goodness times are changing, mental health is being prioritized, and it's OK to not be OK. If you're struggling, help is available. I am fully-licensed, with a Masters' Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Lipscomb University. I'd love to talk with you. I offer sessions in-person or via telehealth. Call me at 615-414-6210.
(615) 751-6163 View (615) 751-6163
Photo of Junie Welsh, MA, NCC, LPCtemp, LADACII, CAADC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Junie Welsh
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC, LPCtemp, LADACII, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37208
My name is Junie Welsh and I am a therapist in TN! I have my master's in clinical mental health, I am a nationally certified counselor, a licensed drug and alcohol counselor level II, I have my LPC temp under supervision, and I am EMDR trained in the state of TN. I am a certified advanced alcohol and drug addiction counseling in the state of CA. I treat young adults struggling with trauma, current or past substance abuse, those that have been affected by the substance abuse of a loved one, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and personality disorders. It would be a privilege to work with you!
My name is Junie Welsh and I am a therapist in TN! I have my master's in clinical mental health, I am a nationally certified counselor, a licensed drug and alcohol counselor level II, I have my LPC temp under supervision, and I am EMDR trained in the state of TN. I am a certified advanced alcohol and drug addiction counseling in the state of CA. I treat young adults struggling with trauma, current or past substance abuse, those that have been affected by the substance abuse of a loved one, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and personality disorders. It would be a privilege to work with you!
(615) 283-9974 View (615) 283-9974
Photo of Sarah Broyles Ledbetter, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Broyles Ledbetter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37214
My clients often refer to what I call 'blurry trauma,' early attachment experiences that were less than affirming but so ingrained, the client often doesn't recall outstanding events. They may not even remember much about their childhood at all. That kind of trauma leads to addiction, confusing, disorganized or unfulfilling relationships, and difficulty harnessing the resources needed to navigate change so the client can create their most authentic life and relationships. I use present moment, present location resources such as the client's own strengths, passions, and ability to make creative decisions to facilitate safe change.
My clients often refer to what I call 'blurry trauma,' early attachment experiences that were less than affirming but so ingrained, the client often doesn't recall outstanding events. They may not even remember much about their childhood at all. That kind of trauma leads to addiction, confusing, disorganized or unfulfilling relationships, and difficulty harnessing the resources needed to navigate change so the client can create their most authentic life and relationships. I use present moment, present location resources such as the client's own strengths, passions, and ability to make creative decisions to facilitate safe change.
(615) 471-7631 View (615) 471-7631
Photo of Lacey Rudisill-Campbell, MS, LPC-, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lacey Rudisill-Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
I specialize in anxiety, grief, addiction and recovery, relational issues and trauma resolution.
I work to identify the strengths of my client and then utilize these as we collaborate, accomplishing the client's life goals, navigating stressors and bringing balance and hope to the client's life. Are you tired of sabotaging your success? Do you wish you could get a grip on your anxiety? Why am I so angry all of the time? Other people can quit, why can't I? Will I ever be enough? I believe in creating a safe space of healing, hope and refuge where you can achieve your goals and desires for your life.
I specialize in anxiety, grief, addiction and recovery, relational issues and trauma resolution.
I work to identify the strengths of my client and then utilize these as we collaborate, accomplishing the client's life goals, navigating stressors and bringing balance and hope to the client's life. Are you tired of sabotaging your success? Do you wish you could get a grip on your anxiety? Why am I so angry all of the time? Other people can quit, why can't I? Will I ever be enough? I believe in creating a safe space of healing, hope and refuge where you can achieve your goals and desires for your life.
(704) 769-2843 View (704) 769-2843
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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.