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Online Therapists

Photo of Lisa Benavides, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clare County, MI
Lisa Benavides
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
For over 20 years I have been involved in the mental health system and have had the privilege of helping individuals & families achieve their goals and overcome a variety of challenges (i.e. depression, anxiety, mood disorders, new transitions, relational, & substance abuse struggles). While speaking both English & Spanish languages, my hope is that each individual that I encounter will gain a better understanding of themselves, and also learn valuable skills to move forward towards a more fulfilling and flourishing life---to be able to find 'Peace of Mind'--within themselves and within their surroundings.
For over 20 years I have been involved in the mental health system and have had the privilege of helping individuals & families achieve their goals and overcome a variety of challenges (i.e. depression, anxiety, mood disorders, new transitions, relational, & substance abuse struggles). While speaking both English & Spanish languages, my hope is that each individual that I encounter will gain a better understanding of themselves, and also learn valuable skills to move forward towards a more fulfilling and flourishing life---to be able to find 'Peace of Mind'--within themselves and within their surroundings.
(616) 205-9759 View (616) 205-9759
Photo of Chantelle Benko, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clare County, MI
Chantelle Benko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MHP &ES
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greenville, MI 48838
Waitlist for new clients
I provide trauma informed therapy services to teens, adults, couples, LE/Corrections, & veterans to treat anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD, relationship struggles, & other issues.
Sometimes life gives us more than we can handle by ourselves & we could use a bit of help navigating our way through it. We all have struggles as well as our own individualized higher purpose to fulfill. I'm here to help process your thoughts, feelings, & experiences so you may move forward in a healthier, more positive direction where peace & contentment can be found using a mind, body, spirit approach to healing & growth. We all deserve to live life to the fullest & I can offer you the counseling tools, resources, encouragement & support to assist you in overcoming life's obstacles & challenges encountered throughout your journey.
I provide trauma informed therapy services to teens, adults, couples, LE/Corrections, & veterans to treat anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD, relationship struggles, & other issues.
Sometimes life gives us more than we can handle by ourselves & we could use a bit of help navigating our way through it. We all have struggles as well as our own individualized higher purpose to fulfill. I'm here to help process your thoughts, feelings, & experiences so you may move forward in a healthier, more positive direction where peace & contentment can be found using a mind, body, spirit approach to healing & growth. We all deserve to live life to the fullest & I can offer you the counseling tools, resources, encouragement & support to assist you in overcoming life's obstacles & challenges encountered throughout your journey.
(616) 205-9126 View (616) 205-9126
Photo of Diversity Psychological Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clare County, MI
Diversity Psychological Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48906
Hello. I have a passion for transforming challenging life issues with compassion, self-awareness and self love. My primary areas of interest include adolescents and adults who have difficulties with depression, anxiety, self-esteem and managing day to day stress. I also have experience working with adults who have a history of substance abuse. I believe that therapy is an influential journey that requires a partnership between both client and therapist. I incorporate a mindfulness approach to treatment and utilize acceptance and change strategies to help you reach your goals.
Hello. I have a passion for transforming challenging life issues with compassion, self-awareness and self love. My primary areas of interest include adolescents and adults who have difficulties with depression, anxiety, self-esteem and managing day to day stress. I also have experience working with adults who have a history of substance abuse. I believe that therapy is an influential journey that requires a partnership between both client and therapist. I incorporate a mindfulness approach to treatment and utilize acceptance and change strategies to help you reach your goals.
(517) 715-8491 View (517) 715-8491
Photo of Tahleekah Partee-Young, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clare County, MI
Tahleekah Partee-Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I provide both mental health and substance abuse counseling.
My ideal client is looking for someone to hold their stories in confidence. Some circumstances may require significant support while others may only need a little support and guidance. No matter the circumstance, I am experienced to "meet you where you are", on this journey. I enjoy helping clients to re-assemble the missing puzzles pieces of their life in order to gain a holistic snapshot of how life's events lead to present circumstances. Ultimately, my intention is incorporate modalities and skils unique to the individual, in order to produce healthy outcomes.
I provide both mental health and substance abuse counseling.
My ideal client is looking for someone to hold their stories in confidence. Some circumstances may require significant support while others may only need a little support and guidance. No matter the circumstance, I am experienced to "meet you where you are", on this journey. I enjoy helping clients to re-assemble the missing puzzles pieces of their life in order to gain a holistic snapshot of how life's events lead to present circumstances. Ultimately, my intention is incorporate modalities and skils unique to the individual, in order to produce healthy outcomes.
(616) 344-9126 View (616) 344-9126
Photo of Timothy D. Van Antwerp, Pre-Licensed Professional in Clare County, MI
Timothy D. Van Antwerp
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLMSW, QIDP, ISC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ada, MI 49301  (Online Only)
I have professional and personal experience in the areas of PTSD, early childhood trauma, relationship trauma/abuse, divorce and family dynamics, autism and other developmental disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, depression, substance use, abuse and addiction.
Let's get to work and get you where you want to be. I'm here to provide options, ideas, solutions, and the strategies to help get you there. I like to use the term "level up", as a description of honing the strengths and tools you already have. Together we can define and refine those skills you already have and also offer new approaches and mental tools that you can incorporate in your personal development journey. I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing in a strengths-based, solution focused format. Time to level up to your best self, you got this!
I have professional and personal experience in the areas of PTSD, early childhood trauma, relationship trauma/abuse, divorce and family dynamics, autism and other developmental disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, depression, substance use, abuse and addiction.
Let's get to work and get you where you want to be. I'm here to provide options, ideas, solutions, and the strategies to help get you there. I like to use the term "level up", as a description of honing the strengths and tools you already have. Together we can define and refine those skills you already have and also offer new approaches and mental tools that you can incorporate in your personal development journey. I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing in a strengths-based, solution focused format. Time to level up to your best self, you got this!
(616) 947-3803 View (616) 947-3803
Photo of Diane Russick-Keglovitz, Counselor in Clare County, MI
Diane Russick-Keglovitz
Counselor, MPA, CWIC, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Norton Shores, MI 49441
addiction recovery programs, divorce survival, grief, job loss, low self-esteem, suicide recovery, and vocational counseling.
Aloha! Thinking about navigating a new course for tranquility or reaching your new peace-filled horizon. Me too! One day I'd like a practice in Hawaii, for now the beautiful lakeshore of West Michigan. Charting a new course of direction is the first step, to sustainable emotional health. I help many suffering with life challenges, "POI", Hawaiian for sticky situations. As a Master Level licensed professional, I work to remove the "POI" helping you reclaim your life from stress & dysfunction. If life's storms seem to capsize your every effort for peace, let's talk. Together we can navigate safe passage to a tranquil future.
addiction recovery programs, divorce survival, grief, job loss, low self-esteem, suicide recovery, and vocational counseling.
Aloha! Thinking about navigating a new course for tranquility or reaching your new peace-filled horizon. Me too! One day I'd like a practice in Hawaii, for now the beautiful lakeshore of West Michigan. Charting a new course of direction is the first step, to sustainable emotional health. I help many suffering with life challenges, "POI", Hawaiian for sticky situations. As a Master Level licensed professional, I work to remove the "POI" helping you reclaim your life from stress & dysfunction. If life's storms seem to capsize your every effort for peace, let's talk. Together we can navigate safe passage to a tranquil future.
(616) 208-5189 View (616) 208-5189
Photo of S.L.O.M. Project Inc., Mediator, Consultant, Counselor in Clare County, MI
S.L.O.M. Project Inc., Mediator, Consultant
Counselor, DBT, MHT, MA, LLPC, Coach, Clergy
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48826  (Online Only)
D.B.T.,Anxiety, PTSD, Trauma, Loss/Grief, Marriage &Family, Suicide Ideation, B.P, Mood Disorder, Group & Business Arbitration, I specialize in one-one, group, business, entertainment, substance, and incarcerated population. Through cognitive therapy and evidence based treatment and education, I will offer a full scope of services to all clients and consumers with treatment tools including testing instruments, play and role therapy, assessments, interventions, arbitration. You will also obtain a plethora of adapting behavioral coping mechanisms that will be dedicated to your treatment and successful recovery.
D.B.T.,Anxiety, PTSD, Trauma, Loss/Grief, Marriage &Family, Suicide Ideation, B.P, Mood Disorder, Group & Business Arbitration, I specialize in one-one, group, business, entertainment, substance, and incarcerated population. Through cognitive therapy and evidence based treatment and education, I will offer a full scope of services to all clients and consumers with treatment tools including testing instruments, play and role therapy, assessments, interventions, arbitration. You will also obtain a plethora of adapting behavioral coping mechanisms that will be dedicated to your treatment and successful recovery.
(517) 781-8346 View (517) 781-8346
Photo of Dawn M Wilburn, Counselor in Clare County, MI
Dawn M Wilburn
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, MITS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Norton Shores, MI 49441
some of the issues I help with are: anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief and loss, substance abuse, relationship issues, personality disorders, Problematic Sexual Behavior/internet pornography, social issues and phobias.
I like to create for my clients an environment that is conducive to cultivating open communication and trust. I respect and value the thoughts and feelings of my clients and each individual is treated as their own person, tried by challenges specific to themselves. Through self-exploration, understanding and deepened insight, I believe that individuals can heal and foster change.
some of the issues I help with are: anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief and loss, substance abuse, relationship issues, personality disorders, Problematic Sexual Behavior/internet pornography, social issues and phobias.
I like to create for my clients an environment that is conducive to cultivating open communication and trust. I respect and value the thoughts and feelings of my clients and each individual is treated as their own person, tried by challenges specific to themselves. Through self-exploration, understanding and deepened insight, I believe that individuals can heal and foster change.
(231) 715-3174 View (231) 715-3174
Photo of Lacee Maree Boone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clare County, MI
Lacee Maree Boone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, DP-C
Verified Verified
Hastings, MI 49058
Lacee also has extensive experience working with individuals who struggle with substance use as well.
Lacee is a clinical social worker who has a variety of experience working with individuals of all ages. Lacee earned a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Criminal Justice from Olivet College in 2012, and she then went on to earn her Master’s in Social Work (M.S.W.) from Western Michigan University in 2020.
Lacee also has extensive experience working with individuals who struggle with substance use as well.
Lacee is a clinical social worker who has a variety of experience working with individuals of all ages. Lacee earned a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Criminal Justice from Olivet College in 2012, and she then went on to earn her Master’s in Social Work (M.S.W.) from Western Michigan University in 2020.
(269) 215-4648 View (269) 215-4648
Photo of Sarah Rebekah Tomcala, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clare County, MI
Sarah Rebekah Tomcala
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Owosso, MI 48867  (Online Only)
My name is Sarah Tomcala, and I am a licensed therapist in the states of Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. I have been working in the field of counseling since 2005, and specializing in substance abuse and trauma since 2010.
My name is Sarah Tomcala, and I am a licensed therapist in the states of Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. I have been working in the field of counseling since 2005, and specializing in substance abuse and trauma since 2010.
(989) 662-9373 View (989) 662-9373
Photo of Susan Missad, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clare County, MI
Susan Missad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
I have experience working with individuals with symptoms of anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma and interpersonal conflicts.
Feelings, emotions or life events can throw you off balance and cause you distress. Working together in a collaborative, therapeutic relationship, it is possible to better understand yourself and to learn to cope with events that influence your life. I provide a validating and non-judgmental space for you to share your story. Together we can explore your strengths and challenges and determine how you want to move forward. I use an integrative approach to therapy, which allows me to individualize my treatment for each client.
I have experience working with individuals with symptoms of anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma and interpersonal conflicts.
Feelings, emotions or life events can throw you off balance and cause you distress. Working together in a collaborative, therapeutic relationship, it is possible to better understand yourself and to learn to cope with events that influence your life. I provide a validating and non-judgmental space for you to share your story. Together we can explore your strengths and challenges and determine how you want to move forward. I use an integrative approach to therapy, which allows me to individualize my treatment for each client.
(616) 369-0033 View (616) 369-0033
Photo of Helen Ceballo-Hernandez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clare County, MI
Helen Ceballo-Hernandez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I provide Psychological Evaluations for immigration cases as well as Psychological Evaluations and counseling for alcohol and substance abuse court related cases.
You will be respected and your story acknowledged. No one has your exact story and circumstance. Together we will work so that the rest of your life's story may be genuine and fulfilling. I practice a predominantly humanistic approach in which you receive unconditional, positive regard. In other words, regardless of what you say, you will be accepted and supported and treated with value. Your healing, progress and strive will be the forefront of our work. Counseling requires work and courage to make healthy changes. I will be honored to work along with you. Let's be courageous together.
I provide Psychological Evaluations for immigration cases as well as Psychological Evaluations and counseling for alcohol and substance abuse court related cases.
You will be respected and your story acknowledged. No one has your exact story and circumstance. Together we will work so that the rest of your life's story may be genuine and fulfilling. I practice a predominantly humanistic approach in which you receive unconditional, positive regard. In other words, regardless of what you say, you will be accepted and supported and treated with value. Your healing, progress and strive will be the forefront of our work. Counseling requires work and courage to make healthy changes. I will be honored to work along with you. Let's be courageous together.
(616) 427-1787 View (616) 427-1787
Photo of Heidi Fraser, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clare County, MI
Heidi Fraser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Gaylord, MI 49735
Your pain does not define you. But, it sure does taint our view of ourselves. It's hard to see the best version of us. I would love to help you see how wonderful you are! I offer appointment times after work hours or on the weekends. You will find me to be a fun therapist who thrives on incorporating all aspects of emotion into her sessions. We may cry, but we will laugh too! We will take about fear, but we will take about courage too! I truly believe that the most change occurs when you feel like you can connect with your therapist! Give me a call and I'll get you in for an appointment as soon as I can!
Your pain does not define you. But, it sure does taint our view of ourselves. It's hard to see the best version of us. I would love to help you see how wonderful you are! I offer appointment times after work hours or on the weekends. You will find me to be a fun therapist who thrives on incorporating all aspects of emotion into her sessions. We may cry, but we will laugh too! We will take about fear, but we will take about courage too! I truly believe that the most change occurs when you feel like you can connect with your therapist! Give me a call and I'll get you in for an appointment as soon as I can!
(989) 301-4199 View (989) 301-4199
Photo of Jack W. Grenan in Clare County, MI
Jack W. Grenan
PhD, MS, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Spring Lake, MI 49456
Let Me Help, You Help Yourself ! Dr. Grenan, ,Christian, was raised in inner City Detroit by a dad who abused me mentally & physically. . My grandparents, mom & God saved my life. I am the first person in my family to attend college MSU ,as a father of 5 children, I had 4th stage colon cancer, a 4 month coma & DIED! God may have planned for my struggles to help me be a good therapist who understands & helps people in pain. I also have a PhD in Hypnotherapy, a sliding pay scale and give a free 15 minute consult. Email me at: jackgrenan@netscape.net or call 616-414-7246. God Bless You! I help all who want HELP! If in pain call NOW!
Let Me Help, You Help Yourself ! Dr. Grenan, ,Christian, was raised in inner City Detroit by a dad who abused me mentally & physically. . My grandparents, mom & God saved my life. I am the first person in my family to attend college MSU ,as a father of 5 children, I had 4th stage colon cancer, a 4 month coma & DIED! God may have planned for my struggles to help me be a good therapist who understands & helps people in pain. I also have a PhD in Hypnotherapy, a sliding pay scale and give a free 15 minute consult. Email me at: jackgrenan@netscape.net or call 616-414-7246. God Bless You! I help all who want HELP! If in pain call NOW!
(616) 344-9179 View (616) 344-9179
Photo of Vicki Nelson Smeby, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Clare County, MI
Vicki Nelson Smeby, MA, LLP
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546  (Online Only)
I view therapy as having three heavy hitters: 1) EMDR - to neutralize strong negative emotions around adverse events (big & little traumas) and 2) Understanding loss and how to release it by feeling it and then not going back to think about it and 3) Learning how to have an attitude of healing and letting go. These culminate in living an empowered life which results in having a calm confidence. My clients set weekly goals and amaze me with their determination and willingness to go the distance to grow, mature and experience full healing. My teachings and handouts are creative and original.
I view therapy as having three heavy hitters: 1) EMDR - to neutralize strong negative emotions around adverse events (big & little traumas) and 2) Understanding loss and how to release it by feeling it and then not going back to think about it and 3) Learning how to have an attitude of healing and letting go. These culminate in living an empowered life which results in having a calm confidence. My clients set weekly goals and amaze me with their determination and willingness to go the distance to grow, mature and experience full healing. My teachings and handouts are creative and original.
(616) 952-2128 View (616) 952-2128
Photo of Shari M Almanza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clare County, MI
Shari M Almanza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
There isn’t a one size “fix” all package for mental health. What works for one; may not work for another. I will be the first one to tell you that I am not the expert in your pain, your life, or your journey. You are. I am simply here to walk alongside you and be a resource for your growth. I believe one of the hardest and bravest things you can do for yourself, is to not only understand your story, but to continue growing from it.
There isn’t a one size “fix” all package for mental health. What works for one; may not work for another. I will be the first one to tell you that I am not the expert in your pain, your life, or your journey. You are. I am simply here to walk alongside you and be a resource for your growth. I believe one of the hardest and bravest things you can do for yourself, is to not only understand your story, but to continue growing from it.
(616) 208-5484 View (616) 208-5484
Photo of Lifepoint Counseling, Psychologist in Clare County, MI
Lifepoint Counseling
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lansing, MI 48911
As a compassionate therapist, I specialize in grief, PTSD, anxiety, bipolar disorders, sleep disorders, and occupational burnout. With a Ph.D. in psychology, I have expertise in anxiety, PTSD, depression, relationship problems, and sleep disorders. I am fluent in American Sign Language, providing direct therapy to Deaf and Hard of Hearing populations. Choose me as your therapist for personalized support in overcoming challenges and fostering resilience.
As a compassionate therapist, I specialize in grief, PTSD, anxiety, bipolar disorders, sleep disorders, and occupational burnout. With a Ph.D. in psychology, I have expertise in anxiety, PTSD, depression, relationship problems, and sleep disorders. I am fluent in American Sign Language, providing direct therapy to Deaf and Hard of Hearing populations. Choose me as your therapist for personalized support in overcoming challenges and fostering resilience.
(517) 201-2942 View (517) 201-2942
Photo of Sarah Rhein, Counselor in Clare County, MI
Sarah Rhein
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Everyone who takes the risk to try counseling needs to be listened to and their unique story heard. During counseling sessions you will feel valued, supported, and equipped to face the struggles of life. Together we'll figure out how you can move forward, if you feel stuck, and reach your goals. We'll use your strengths to overcome what may be holding you back, and holistic strategies for healing and growth. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulty, or some other issue, we can work together to develop solutions. As a therapist I offer you a fresh perspective, some new skills, guidance, and hope.
Everyone who takes the risk to try counseling needs to be listened to and their unique story heard. During counseling sessions you will feel valued, supported, and equipped to face the struggles of life. Together we'll figure out how you can move forward, if you feel stuck, and reach your goals. We'll use your strengths to overcome what may be holding you back, and holistic strategies for healing and growth. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulty, or some other issue, we can work together to develop solutions. As a therapist I offer you a fresh perspective, some new skills, guidance, and hope.
(616) 201-1371 View (616) 201-1371
Photo of Elizabeth White, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Clare County, MI
Elizabeth White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
I am a Limited Licensed Master Social Worker with experience working with adolescents and adults. I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with chronic illness, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and other issues life throws your way. I strive to establish a safe place for individuals to learn, share, and heal without the fear of being judged. I realize the importance of having someone in your corner to help you to better understand yourself and your life circumstances. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, watching Notre Dame football, and listening to crime podcasts!
I am a Limited Licensed Master Social Worker with experience working with adolescents and adults. I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with chronic illness, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and other issues life throws your way. I strive to establish a safe place for individuals to learn, share, and heal without the fear of being judged. I realize the importance of having someone in your corner to help you to better understand yourself and your life circumstances. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, watching Notre Dame football, and listening to crime podcasts!
(616) 303-5082 View (616) 303-5082
Photo of Konfara Counseling and Supervision, Licensed Professional Counselor in Clare County, MI
Konfara Counseling and Supervision
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
People enter into a counseling relationship when nothing else seems to be working. Although most people soon make comments such as, “(Counseling) was a lot better than I thought it would be”, few people seek counseling as a first option. More often we seek out techniques that either help us to temporarily avoid (e.g., media, social networking) our anxiety, or we seek temporary shots of pleasure (e.g., alcohol, food, pornography) that make us feel good for a short time. Soon enough we realize that all of these things leave us feeling more hollow and lonely, and that is when we start thinking about counseling.
People enter into a counseling relationship when nothing else seems to be working. Although most people soon make comments such as, “(Counseling) was a lot better than I thought it would be”, few people seek counseling as a first option. More often we seek out techniques that either help us to temporarily avoid (e.g., media, social networking) our anxiety, or we seek temporary shots of pleasure (e.g., alcohol, food, pornography) that make us feel good for a short time. Soon enough we realize that all of these things leave us feeling more hollow and lonely, and that is when we start thinking about counseling.
(616) 310-4614 View (616) 310-4614

See more therapy options for Clare County

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.