Photo of Services of Hope, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in North Muskegon, MI
Services of Hope
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Muskegon, MI 49445
I'm here to help you through life's distressing events including: Depression, anxiety, substance abuse, relationship issues, grief/loss, physical/sexual abuse, gender identity, and parenting issues.
Life can be overwhelming at times and everybody needs somebody! You do not have to handle the stress and issues of life alone. If you are feeling lost, confused, hopeless, helpless or just need some support working on some issues, you can contact me. I enjoy working with adolescence, adults, and the elderly population. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to restore, recognize, and resolve the challenges in your life. We will uncover long-standing negative behaviors/thoughts that may be holding you back from enjoying a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I'm here to help you through life's distressing events including: Depression, anxiety, substance abuse, relationship issues, grief/loss, physical/sexual abuse, gender identity, and parenting issues.
Life can be overwhelming at times and everybody needs somebody! You do not have to handle the stress and issues of life alone. If you are feeling lost, confused, hopeless, helpless or just need some support working on some issues, you can contact me. I enjoy working with adolescence, adults, and the elderly population. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to restore, recognize, and resolve the challenges in your life. We will uncover long-standing negative behaviors/thoughts that may be holding you back from enjoying a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(231) 674-9084 View (231) 674-9084

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Diane Russick-Keglovitz, Counselor in North Muskegon, 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 Dawn M Wilburn, Counselor in North Muskegon, 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 Sheila D Wilkinson, Counselor in North Muskegon, MI
Sheila D Wilkinson
Counselor, MA, LPC, FLE
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Norton Shores, MI 49441
Life can be difficult at times and often we struggle to navigate those challenging times. Marriage and trauma difficulties, in particular, can be very personal and often leave us feeling extremely confused and lonely. As a therapist I use the Gottman Method Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy to assist couples. I work with my clients to identify a specific cycle of conflict, identify and express personal longings, increase level of intimacy, and put trust/commitment back into relationships. I also use EMDR, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to explore, educate and empower those with trauma and each person I come in contact with.
Life can be difficult at times and often we struggle to navigate those challenging times. Marriage and trauma difficulties, in particular, can be very personal and often leave us feeling extremely confused and lonely. As a therapist I use the Gottman Method Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy to assist couples. I work with my clients to identify a specific cycle of conflict, identify and express personal longings, increase level of intimacy, and put trust/commitment back into relationships. I also use EMDR, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to explore, educate and empower those with trauma and each person I come in contact with.
(231) 597-4054 View (231) 597-4054
Photo of Paul Breithaupt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Muskegon, MI
Paul Breithaupt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Muskegon, MI 49440
It is my honor to be able to work with you and my greatest hope is to see you flourish. I bring a Masters in social work with an undergrad in psychology, 7 years as a clinical therapist, and 14 years as a psychiatric inpatient technician that has allowed for an extended understanding of family, residential, school, and legal systems. With this experience, I strive to provide a rounded, more holistic approach in sessions with specialties in the areas of crisis management (including skill building and integration), ADHD, depression, anxiety, faith-based counseling and mindfulness, and self-harm.
It is my honor to be able to work with you and my greatest hope is to see you flourish. I bring a Masters in social work with an undergrad in psychology, 7 years as a clinical therapist, and 14 years as a psychiatric inpatient technician that has allowed for an extended understanding of family, residential, school, and legal systems. With this experience, I strive to provide a rounded, more holistic approach in sessions with specialties in the areas of crisis management (including skill building and integration), ADHD, depression, anxiety, faith-based counseling and mindfulness, and self-harm.
(231) 444-4498 View (231) 444-4498
Photo of Servicios de Esperanza, LLC- Services of Hope, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Muskegon, MI
Servicios de Esperanza, LLC- Services of Hope
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, RPT-S, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Muskegon, MI 49440
Servicios De Esperanza/Services of Hope prides itself on having culturally diverse clinicians sensitive to individual and family needs providing non-traditional appointment times, bilingual services (in both English and Spanish) and flexible locations.
Servicios De Esperanza/Services of Hope prides itself on having culturally diverse clinicians sensitive to individual and family needs providing non-traditional appointment times, bilingual services (in both English and Spanish) and flexible locations.
(231) 722-7980 View (231) 722-7980

Online Therapists

Photo of Ashley K. Castro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Muskegon, MI
Ashley K. Castro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Waitlist for new clients
Those dealing with codependency, boundary difficulties, addiction (self or a spouse), depression, anxiety, high stress jobs, relationship difficulties or family conflicts are my specialty.
Are you struggling with anxiety or feeling depressed? Are family or life difficulties leaving you stressed? Are you feeling burned out? Have you experienced trauma? I believe we all need a supportive space to be open without judgement as we talk through our thoughts and feelings and process stress. I'd love to help support you with these or other concerns such as relationship issues, job stresses and faith related difficulties. Working together we will work toward peace and personal growth for a more vibrant life through mental wellness, stress management and healthy boundaries. Request an appointment at www.ashleycastrolmsw.com
Those dealing with codependency, boundary difficulties, addiction (self or a spouse), depression, anxiety, high stress jobs, relationship difficulties or family conflicts are my specialty.
Are you struggling with anxiety or feeling depressed? Are family or life difficulties leaving you stressed? Are you feeling burned out? Have you experienced trauma? I believe we all need a supportive space to be open without judgement as we talk through our thoughts and feelings and process stress. I'd love to help support you with these or other concerns such as relationship issues, job stresses and faith related difficulties. Working together we will work toward peace and personal growth for a more vibrant life through mental wellness, stress management and healthy boundaries. Request an appointment at www.ashleycastrolmsw.com
(616) 201-3192 View (616) 201-3192
Photo of Lisa Benavides, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Muskegon, 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 Amanda Walker, Limited Licensed Psychologist in North Muskegon, MI
Amanda Walker
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP, CAADC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49544  (Online Only)
I view therapy as a collaborate space where it is safe to share life’s difficulties. I find joy in working together to learn to cope with stressors and develop healthy habits for better managing relationships, mental health concerns, and whatever situation might be important in that moment. I enjoy working with adults and couples. My primary areas of expertise include treating mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, as well as working with adjustment disorders and substance use disorders. Therapy is about helping people through situational life stressors or relationship conflicts.
I view therapy as a collaborate space where it is safe to share life’s difficulties. I find joy in working together to learn to cope with stressors and develop healthy habits for better managing relationships, mental health concerns, and whatever situation might be important in that moment. I enjoy working with adults and couples. My primary areas of expertise include treating mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, as well as working with adjustment disorders and substance use disorders. Therapy is about helping people through situational life stressors or relationship conflicts.
(616) 201-1399 View (616) 201-1399
Photo of Steven Bristol, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Muskegon, MI
Steven Bristol
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, LMSW, TF-CBT, EMDR, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
I am a CAADC (addiction counselor).
I'm passionate about providing support and compassionate counseling to individuals, couples, & families facing life-challenging crises, addictions, or illness with a heart of sincere concern. I assist clients in developing healthy life skills, resolving conflict, and accessing needed resources as they seek to fulfill their personal, family, and vocational goals. I'm experienced in a breadth of crises and family needs through years of church-based pastoral care and clinical counseling. I provide Individual, Couples, and Family Counseling, and Group Therapy. I can help address Men's Issues, Grief Support, and Conflict Mediation needs.
I am a CAADC (addiction counselor).
I'm passionate about providing support and compassionate counseling to individuals, couples, & families facing life-challenging crises, addictions, or illness with a heart of sincere concern. I assist clients in developing healthy life skills, resolving conflict, and accessing needed resources as they seek to fulfill their personal, family, and vocational goals. I'm experienced in a breadth of crises and family needs through years of church-based pastoral care and clinical counseling. I provide Individual, Couples, and Family Counseling, and Group Therapy. I can help address Men's Issues, Grief Support, and Conflict Mediation needs.
(269) 399-3468 View (269) 399-3468
Photo of Nicole (Wells) Parker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Muskegon, MI
Nicole (Wells) Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
Trauma is defined differently by everyone and NO ONE understands what you are going through like you do. As a therapist trained in EMDR I can use my knowledge to help you process life experiences and provide realistic tools to manage reactions caused by trauma. I have previous work experience in healthcare and I enjoy working with teenagers, adults, and couples. My training and work experience include individuals with histories of complex trauma, personality disorders, trauma affiliated with a religion, addiction(s), grief, sexual health, and medical trauma.
Trauma is defined differently by everyone and NO ONE understands what you are going through like you do. As a therapist trained in EMDR I can use my knowledge to help you process life experiences and provide realistic tools to manage reactions caused by trauma. I have previous work experience in healthcare and I enjoy working with teenagers, adults, and couples. My training and work experience include individuals with histories of complex trauma, personality disorders, trauma affiliated with a religion, addiction(s), grief, sexual health, and medical trauma.
(269) 430-2464 View (269) 430-2464
Photo of S.L.O.M. Project Inc., Mediator, Consultant, Counselor in North Muskegon, 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 Diversity Psychological Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Muskegon, 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 Taylor Rodriguez, Counselor in North Muskegon, MI
Taylor Rodriguez
Counselor, MA , LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lansing, MI 48911
I am comfortable addressing issues related to substance use, anxiety, stress, depression, anger, trauma, and difficult adjustments.
I am a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor with 2 years of experience working with adolescents and adults of diverse backgrounds with a variety of mental health needs.
I am comfortable addressing issues related to substance use, anxiety, stress, depression, anger, trauma, and difficult adjustments.
I am a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor with 2 years of experience working with adolescents and adults of diverse backgrounds with a variety of mental health needs.
(517) 793-5839 View (517) 793-5839
Photo of Koinonia Counseling Center, PLLC., Licensed Professional Counselor in North Muskegon, MI
Koinonia Counseling Center, PLLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wyoming, MI 49519
Waitlist for new clients
KCC clinicians specialize in trauma and work from a trauma-informed platform. What this means is that we treat various mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and substance use from the idea that trauma has affected the individual’s overall mental health. We also treat Dissociative Disorders, are rainbow allies and seek to provide a nurturing, empathetic environment for our clients. We also enthusiastically celebrate all diversity and have specific skills and experience in relation to working with the disabled minority. We currently have a waitlist for Dissociative Disorder treatment needs. Email communication preferred.
KCC clinicians specialize in trauma and work from a trauma-informed platform. What this means is that we treat various mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and substance use from the idea that trauma has affected the individual’s overall mental health. We also treat Dissociative Disorders, are rainbow allies and seek to provide a nurturing, empathetic environment for our clients. We also enthusiastically celebrate all diversity and have specific skills and experience in relation to working with the disabled minority. We currently have a waitlist for Dissociative Disorder treatment needs. Email communication preferred.
(616) 369-8594 View (616) 369-8594
Photo of Tahleekah Partee-Young, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Muskegon, 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 Johnna Alofs, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Muskegon, MI
Johnna Alofs
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wyoming, MI 49509  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals who are struggling with substance use and/or family members and support systems of those who are struggling with substance use. I have additional training in trauma-focused counseling and have experience working with individuals struggling with mental illness ranging from anxiety and depression to severe mental illness. Having a combination of personal and professional experience helps me form authentic relationships with individuals and I desire to be an advocate for those who struggle to advocate for themselves, and to provide support to those who need it most.
I specialize in working with individuals who are struggling with substance use and/or family members and support systems of those who are struggling with substance use. I have additional training in trauma-focused counseling and have experience working with individuals struggling with mental illness ranging from anxiety and depression to severe mental illness. Having a combination of personal and professional experience helps me form authentic relationships with individuals and I desire to be an advocate for those who struggle to advocate for themselves, and to provide support to those who need it most.
(616) 326-3419 View (616) 326-3419
Photo of Liz Cary, Limited Licensed Psychologist in North Muskegon, MI
Liz Cary
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, CAADC, CCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
I am a Limited Licensed Psychologist specializing in EMDR Therapy.  I use EMDR to treat the impacts of traumatic events, PTSD, grief, anger, and addictions including substance and sexual addictions. I primarily work with Veterans and First Responders, and individuals on the front lines of taking care of others. When you face the dangers of the world head-on on a daily basis, asking for help may feel counterintuitive. At the same time, avoiding problems, thinking they will get better on their own, or denial of their existance (despite the evidence) is a guaranteed path to less-than-ideal outcomes.
I am a Limited Licensed Psychologist specializing in EMDR Therapy.  I use EMDR to treat the impacts of traumatic events, PTSD, grief, anger, and addictions including substance and sexual addictions. I primarily work with Veterans and First Responders, and individuals on the front lines of taking care of others. When you face the dangers of the world head-on on a daily basis, asking for help may feel counterintuitive. At the same time, avoiding problems, thinking they will get better on their own, or denial of their existance (despite the evidence) is a guaranteed path to less-than-ideal outcomes.
(269) 605-4327 View (269) 605-4327
Photo of Merry Battles Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Muskegon, MI
Merry Battles Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
With a focus on anger management, depression anxiety, childhood trauma and substance abuse, I am committed to helping my clients navigate through their challenges and find a path towards healing and growth.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you feel irritated or angry for no apparent reason? Are you a married or single mother that can't seem to get it right when it comes to raising happy and well adjusted kids? Do you resort to unhealthy coping behaviors in times of high stress? It's time to get those feelings, unhealthy choices, and all the negative energy turned around. I can help.
With a focus on anger management, depression anxiety, childhood trauma and substance abuse, I am committed to helping my clients navigate through their challenges and find a path towards healing and growth.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you feel irritated or angry for no apparent reason? Are you a married or single mother that can't seem to get it right when it comes to raising happy and well adjusted kids? Do you resort to unhealthy coping behaviors in times of high stress? It's time to get those feelings, unhealthy choices, and all the negative energy turned around. I can help.
(269) 355-6035 View (269) 355-6035
Photo of Chantelle Benko, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Muskegon, 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
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.