Photo of Elizabeth Dammarell, LMHC, CDP, NCC, MA, Counselor
Elizabeth Dammarell
Counselor, LMHC, CDP, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98685  (Online Only)
I also have extensive experience and training in addictions concerns, including substance abuse, eating disorders, and behavioral addictions.
Creating a safe space for individuals to thrive, grow, and find courage to tell their story, is what I believe my role to be as a counselor. Often times we run from our pain and avoid facing what has been hurting us all these years. It is my belief that counseling provides a neutral and compassionate environment to process through this pain, and finally discover the relief we have been looking for. My hope as your counselor is to help you develop a deeper awareness and personal insight so that you may live a more fulfilling and authentic life.
I also have extensive experience and training in addictions concerns, including substance abuse, eating disorders, and behavioral addictions.
Creating a safe space for individuals to thrive, grow, and find courage to tell their story, is what I believe my role to be as a counselor. Often times we run from our pain and avoid facing what has been hurting us all these years. It is my belief that counseling provides a neutral and compassionate environment to process through this pain, and finally discover the relief we have been looking for. My hope as your counselor is to help you develop a deeper awareness and personal insight so that you may live a more fulfilling and authentic life.
(360) 763-0549 View (360) 763-0549
Photo of Zoe Posner, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zoe Posner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98007
Waitlist for new clients
The bulk of my experience is supporting adults, adolescents, and families in the contexts of complex trauma, addiction, compulsive behaviors, neurodiversity, mood disorders, anxiety, and personality disorders.
Hi there! My strongest source of learning as a therapist has been getting to witness remarkable acts of courage by people facing seemingly insurmountable odds. It takes bravery to look within. I believe in helping people feel safe in their bodies again, safe to feel and express their emotions, and trust in their inner wisdom. I value truly understanding and connecting with those I see, and cultivating a space where you are free and comfortable to let your guard down. Whether you’re looking for concrete skills, wanting to dive deep into territory uncharted, or a bit of both, I will tailor my approach to meet your needs and goals.
The bulk of my experience is supporting adults, adolescents, and families in the contexts of complex trauma, addiction, compulsive behaviors, neurodiversity, mood disorders, anxiety, and personality disorders.
Hi there! My strongest source of learning as a therapist has been getting to witness remarkable acts of courage by people facing seemingly insurmountable odds. It takes bravery to look within. I believe in helping people feel safe in their bodies again, safe to feel and express their emotions, and trust in their inner wisdom. I value truly understanding and connecting with those I see, and cultivating a space where you are free and comfortable to let your guard down. Whether you’re looking for concrete skills, wanting to dive deep into territory uncharted, or a bit of both, I will tailor my approach to meet your needs and goals.
(425) 537-7122 View (425) 537-7122
Photo of Laura Edelstein, MA, LMHC, MAC, CDP, Counselor
Laura Edelstein
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MAC, CDP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
I am trauma informed and have a specialization in working with addiction.
I love working with a wide range of people from young adults to seniors, and work with individuals, couples and families. I am LGBTQIA friendly and love working with diverse populations. I have had various jobs in helping professions for almost twenty years, and since 2012 have counseled adults, families and couples. I love seeing people have renewed hope and vitality in their lives.
I am trauma informed and have a specialization in working with addiction.
I love working with a wide range of people from young adults to seniors, and work with individuals, couples and families. I am LGBTQIA friendly and love working with diverse populations. I have had various jobs in helping professions for almost twenty years, and since 2012 have counseled adults, families and couples. I love seeing people have renewed hope and vitality in their lives.
(425) 341-4033 View (425) 341-4033
Photo of Whitney Lynn Erickson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Whitney Lynn Erickson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kent, WA 98032
Waitlist for new clients
I am specialized in: eating disorders, substance abuse, addiction, codependency, anger, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, autism, sensory processing disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma, parent/child conflict, mood disorders, self-injury, self-harm, suicidal ideation. I have worked in inpatient, residential, or day treatment levels of care for almost 16 years with a variety of populations and have vast knowledge and expertise in being able to provide safety and support for those in need. You can expect to be pushed and challenged and find your way to healing and creating a pathway forward. You can also find me at whitneyericksoncounseling.com
I am specialized in: eating disorders, substance abuse, addiction, codependency, anger, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, autism, sensory processing disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma, parent/child conflict, mood disorders, self-injury, self-harm, suicidal ideation. I have worked in inpatient, residential, or day treatment levels of care for almost 16 years with a variety of populations and have vast knowledge and expertise in being able to provide safety and support for those in need. You can expect to be pushed and challenged and find your way to healing and creating a pathway forward. You can also find me at whitneyericksoncounseling.com
(253) 285-7786 View (253) 285-7786
Photo of Cindy Frederickson, EdD, LMHC, CDP, Counselor
Cindy Frederickson
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, CDP
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
Finding a therapist can be a daunting task. I believe that the therapist-client relationship is very important and is key to productive therapeutic work. I work with depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many times the pressures of life will lead clients to seek counseling to deal with relationship and family issues. I am a co-occurring disorder therapist which means I also have credentials in addiction. Many of my clients may have a mental health issue as well as an addictive disorder. I work with couples as well as GLBT clients. I return all phone calls.
Finding a therapist can be a daunting task. I believe that the therapist-client relationship is very important and is key to productive therapeutic work. I work with depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many times the pressures of life will lead clients to seek counseling to deal with relationship and family issues. I am a co-occurring disorder therapist which means I also have credentials in addiction. Many of my clients may have a mental health issue as well as an addictive disorder. I work with couples as well as GLBT clients. I return all phone calls.
(425) 276-7446 View (425) 276-7446
Photo of Grace Hamlow, LMHCA, Counselor
Grace Hamlow
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011  (Online Only)
I am a holistic, trauma-informed therapist, working with adult individuals to address symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, various forms of trauma, interpersonal issues, substance use and abuse, and with individuals who are on the autism spectrum and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I use a Narrative framework, in addition to CBT and DBT when clinically appropriate. I focus on the client’s relationship to their experiences, strengths, and issues/symptoms. In addition to our depth-work, I provide coping skills and activities based on your needs and to reduce distressful symptoms.
I am a holistic, trauma-informed therapist, working with adult individuals to address symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, various forms of trauma, interpersonal issues, substance use and abuse, and with individuals who are on the autism spectrum and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I use a Narrative framework, in addition to CBT and DBT when clinically appropriate. I focus on the client’s relationship to their experiences, strengths, and issues/symptoms. In addition to our depth-work, I provide coping skills and activities based on your needs and to reduce distressful symptoms.
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Photo of Alexa Farris, LMHC, SUDP, Counselor
Alexa Farris
Counselor, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98366  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stuck? Ready to make a change, but not sure where to begin? Help is available! I am a mental health and substance use counselor based in Kitsap County and providing telehealth services throughout Washington. I work primarily with adults and teenagers ages 13+. I can help you address a variety of issues, including substance abuse and addiction (including nicotine/tobacco use), depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, self-harm, grief, low self-esteem, and LGBTQIA+ concerns. I do offer letters for gender-affirming care. I currently have a 1-2 month waitlist for new clients.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stuck? Ready to make a change, but not sure where to begin? Help is available! I am a mental health and substance use counselor based in Kitsap County and providing telehealth services throughout Washington. I work primarily with adults and teenagers ages 13+. I can help you address a variety of issues, including substance abuse and addiction (including nicotine/tobacco use), depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, self-harm, grief, low self-esteem, and LGBTQIA+ concerns. I do offer letters for gender-affirming care. I currently have a 1-2 month waitlist for new clients.
(360) 592-3359 View (360) 592-3359
Photo of Rebecca Teaford-Boldridge, LCPC, LCAC, LMHC, CMHC, Counselor
Rebecca Teaford-Boldridge
Counselor, LCPC, LCAC, LMHC, CMHC
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98373  (Online Only)
I'm a BIPOC clinician providing virtual services to adults, specializing in mental health, addiction, & trauma.
Accepting new clients in KS, WA, UT, & IL! In a collaborative and individualized atmosphere, we will work together to help you achieve the changes you seek. I am eager to help you reach your goals and offers services to those in need of support and guidance, with my strengths residing in depression, addiction, and the dually diagnosed populations. Please feel free to reach out today through my website to set up your first appointment.
I'm a BIPOC clinician providing virtual services to adults, specializing in mental health, addiction, & trauma.
Accepting new clients in KS, WA, UT, & IL! In a collaborative and individualized atmosphere, we will work together to help you achieve the changes you seek. I am eager to help you reach your goals and offers services to those in need of support and guidance, with my strengths residing in depression, addiction, and the dually diagnosed populations. Please feel free to reach out today through my website to set up your first appointment.
(253) 259-3957 View (253) 259-3957
Photo of Caitlin Elisabeth Pitchon, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Caitlin Elisabeth Pitchon
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Everyone has a story to tell and I'm here to listen to yours, to provide a warm, nonjudgmental space to reflect on your experiences and create lasting positive change that matters most to you. Anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, and major life changes can often make us feel detached from ourselves and those around us. It is an absolute privilege for me to provide a space where you can feel supported and understood. I specialize in my work with adolescents and young adults, with extensive experience in this demographic. I also assist adults with anxiety and addiction and help couples improve communication.
Everyone has a story to tell and I'm here to listen to yours, to provide a warm, nonjudgmental space to reflect on your experiences and create lasting positive change that matters most to you. Anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, and major life changes can often make us feel detached from ourselves and those around us. It is an absolute privilege for me to provide a space where you can feel supported and understood. I specialize in my work with adolescents and young adults, with extensive experience in this demographic. I also assist adults with anxiety and addiction and help couples improve communication.
(425) 225-3567 View (425) 225-3567
Photo of Tracy Michelle Ferezan, LMHCA, SUDP, Counselor
Tracy Michelle Ferezan
Counselor, LMHCA, SUDP
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate & Substance Use Disorder Professional. I am currently accepting clients who are paying out of pocket in Washington. I have flexible hours using a virtual setting to accommodate work schedules and allow counseling to be your priority. I work with children ages 10 and older, teenagers, and adults. I specialize in working with people who need help with addiction and recovery, suicidal ideation, mood disorders, and trauma. I am an ally to members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate & Substance Use Disorder Professional. I am currently accepting clients who are paying out of pocket in Washington. I have flexible hours using a virtual setting to accommodate work schedules and allow counseling to be your priority. I work with children ages 10 and older, teenagers, and adults. I specialize in working with people who need help with addiction and recovery, suicidal ideation, mood disorders, and trauma. I am an ally to members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
(509) 519-1854 View (509) 519-1854
Photo of Jessamyn Dean, LMHC, MAC, SUDP, SD, Counselor
Jessamyn Dean
Counselor, LMHC, MAC, SUDP, SD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Waitlist for new clients
Spirituality is the foundation of the form of synthesized addiction and mental health counseling I offer. My clients engage in the powerful experience of looking within to reconnect with their own Self, which powerfully transforms relationships with others, and most importantly, the relationship with oneself. Throughout this individualized process, clients are better able to release self-destructive thought and behavior patterns, which greatly enhances the quality of life. I have counseled many in and out of addiction recovery and am well versed in spiritual recovery methods and trauma-informed healing modalities.
Spirituality is the foundation of the form of synthesized addiction and mental health counseling I offer. My clients engage in the powerful experience of looking within to reconnect with their own Self, which powerfully transforms relationships with others, and most importantly, the relationship with oneself. Throughout this individualized process, clients are better able to release self-destructive thought and behavior patterns, which greatly enhances the quality of life. I have counseled many in and out of addiction recovery and am well versed in spiritual recovery methods and trauma-informed healing modalities.
(206) 965-8033 View (206) 965-8033
Photo of Katie Schmitten, CSWA, LSWAIC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katie Schmitten
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSWA, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98108
Hello my name is Katie and it is nice to meet you. I am currently taking new patients, teens 14 and older, and adults in Oregon and Washington. I have served in the field for 12 years and welcome populations of all demographics, ethnicities and cultures. I have extensive experience in school based settings assisting with issues such as complex trauma, self harm, addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, life transitions, divorce, adoption, children in the foster system, parent coaching, and other issues. I look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve healing and permanent change.
Hello my name is Katie and it is nice to meet you. I am currently taking new patients, teens 14 and older, and adults in Oregon and Washington. I have served in the field for 12 years and welcome populations of all demographics, ethnicities and cultures. I have extensive experience in school based settings assisting with issues such as complex trauma, self harm, addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, life transitions, divorce, adoption, children in the foster system, parent coaching, and other issues. I look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve healing and permanent change.
(206) 593-3834 View (206) 593-3834
Photo of Ann MacLean, MA, LMHC, EMDR, Counselor
Ann MacLean
Counselor, MA, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
I have a MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Embodied Creative Arts Therapy, prior certification in chemical dependency/addiction counseling, and certification at EMDR.
Are you feeling stuck? What's getting in the way of living a satisfying life, one with heart and meaning? You may be coming to therapy because of a new development or something very old, you may not even know what it is. You may also be adding to your burden by judging your self unfairly. But there is hope, therapy can usher in exciting transformation. When we can embrace the gifts that come with challenges, old fears lose their power. I deeply enjoy helping clients explore/work through difficulties with the purpose of breaking old patterns and intentionally creating a new path forward. Healing and growth is possible for you too.
I have a MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Embodied Creative Arts Therapy, prior certification in chemical dependency/addiction counseling, and certification at EMDR.
Are you feeling stuck? What's getting in the way of living a satisfying life, one with heart and meaning? You may be coming to therapy because of a new development or something very old, you may not even know what it is. You may also be adding to your burden by judging your self unfairly. But there is hope, therapy can usher in exciting transformation. When we can embrace the gifts that come with challenges, old fears lose their power. I deeply enjoy helping clients explore/work through difficulties with the purpose of breaking old patterns and intentionally creating a new path forward. Healing and growth is possible for you too.
(206) 683-4275 View (206) 683-4275
Photo of Christine Gomes, PsyD, Psychologist
Christine Gomes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
Have you been struggling with difficult thoughts or feelings? Ever feel stuck or like you're living on auto-pilot? If so, I can help. I believe that we are healthiest when we allow ourselves to be exactly who we are. I have special interests in relational and religious trauma, as well as working with people with addiction issues, severe depression, anxiety disorders, and suicidal thoughts and actions. No matter where you are in your healing journey, I hope to join you and help you see that you are not alone in the struggle. You are your greatest healer, and I will be your guide along the way.
Have you been struggling with difficult thoughts or feelings? Ever feel stuck or like you're living on auto-pilot? If so, I can help. I believe that we are healthiest when we allow ourselves to be exactly who we are. I have special interests in relational and religious trauma, as well as working with people with addiction issues, severe depression, anxiety disorders, and suicidal thoughts and actions. No matter where you are in your healing journey, I hope to join you and help you see that you are not alone in the struggle. You are your greatest healer, and I will be your guide along the way.
(206) 203-0815 View (206) 203-0815
Photo of undefined - Ruth PS Therapy, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ruth PS Therapy
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Ruth, she/they and I identify as a jewish, queer, latinx individual. I specialize in LGBTQ+ issues, adolescents and children, family issues, anxiety, depression, OCD, behavioral issues, addiction issues, and have experience with neurodivergent individuals on the autism spectrum. My therapeutic approach is very client-centered. I enjoy meeting people where they are at and finding out what areas of their lives they would like to grow in. Being in therapy for the first time or for the hundredth time can be a challenge. My goal is to alleviate that challenge and help people become the best version of themselves.
Hi! My name is Ruth, she/they and I identify as a jewish, queer, latinx individual. I specialize in LGBTQ+ issues, adolescents and children, family issues, anxiety, depression, OCD, behavioral issues, addiction issues, and have experience with neurodivergent individuals on the autism spectrum. My therapeutic approach is very client-centered. I enjoy meeting people where they are at and finding out what areas of their lives they would like to grow in. Being in therapy for the first time or for the hundredth time can be a challenge. My goal is to alleviate that challenge and help people become the best version of themselves.
(509) 260-3675 View (509) 260-3675
Photo of undefined - Blue Mountain Behavioral Health, LMFT, LMHC , MAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Blue Mountain Behavioral Health
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMHC , MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I have a passion for helping clients learn new skills for coping, communication, and problem solving. I encourage clients to find their strengths and to help empower them to achieve their therapy goals. I work collaboratively to create client- centered treatment. I have a background working with individuals, couples, and families. I have experience working with at-risk youth, foster children, and children and teenagers with severe mental illness. I have over a decade of experience working with Active-Duty Service Members with dual diagnosis, mood disorders, depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, trauma, and substance use disorders.
I have a passion for helping clients learn new skills for coping, communication, and problem solving. I encourage clients to find their strengths and to help empower them to achieve their therapy goals. I work collaboratively to create client- centered treatment. I have a background working with individuals, couples, and families. I have experience working with at-risk youth, foster children, and children and teenagers with severe mental illness. I have over a decade of experience working with Active-Duty Service Members with dual diagnosis, mood disorders, depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, trauma, and substance use disorders.
(253) 766-5562 View (253) 766-5562
Photo of Martha Burns, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Martha Burns
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Yakima, WA 98901
I have been a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist for 34 years and helping heal families in my private practice for 24. I specialize in many areas such as child abuse, domestic violence, adoption and infertility related issues, grief, anxiety, depression, addiction, communication training and fair fighting techniques. Many clients come for short, solution focused therapy. I welcome everyone, despite gender, age, ethnicity, religion or sexual preference. My goal is to make the client feel welcome from the moment they arrive, until the time they leave with information that can immediately make a difference in their life.
I have been a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist for 34 years and helping heal families in my private practice for 24. I specialize in many areas such as child abuse, domestic violence, adoption and infertility related issues, grief, anxiety, depression, addiction, communication training and fair fighting techniques. Many clients come for short, solution focused therapy. I welcome everyone, despite gender, age, ethnicity, religion or sexual preference. My goal is to make the client feel welcome from the moment they arrive, until the time they leave with information that can immediately make a difference in their life.
(509) 761-3723 View (509) 761-3723
Photo of Jennifer Bielenberg, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennifer Bielenberg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in treating high achieving adults who seek to heal their relationships with anxiety, trauma, grief, and addiction/substance use.
Do you long to be free from the traps of perfectionism, self-criticism, and unhelpful overcontrol? Do your go-to strategies to "get rid" of your emotions feel unsustainable? I will help you clarify your deepest values, even in the midst of challenge and uncertainty. Whether you want to set boundaries, use your voice in relationships, or develop a more flexible and compassionate perspective, you will be empowered to take action, with a sense of purpose and agency. You will learn to view your emotions as wise communication from the body, without letting them overrun your life, and embrace your full, evolving identity.
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in treating high achieving adults who seek to heal their relationships with anxiety, trauma, grief, and addiction/substance use.
Do you long to be free from the traps of perfectionism, self-criticism, and unhelpful overcontrol? Do your go-to strategies to "get rid" of your emotions feel unsustainable? I will help you clarify your deepest values, even in the midst of challenge and uncertainty. Whether you want to set boundaries, use your voice in relationships, or develop a more flexible and compassionate perspective, you will be empowered to take action, with a sense of purpose and agency. You will learn to view your emotions as wise communication from the body, without letting them overrun your life, and embrace your full, evolving identity.
(425) 230-5819 View (425) 230-5819
Photo of undefined - Candace Hunsucker Therapeutic Services, LLC, LMFT, SUDP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Candace Hunsucker Therapeutic Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SUDP
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98372
I serve Co-Occurring populations-those with mental health and substance use issues/Families with children with behavioral health challenges, LGBTQ populations, gender identity issues, sexuality, polyamory/non-traditional relationships.
I offer therapeutic sessions for individuals, couples, youth, and families. I help facilitate a process where people can develop insight and understanding of what may be holding them back from wellness, joy, and personal growth. Sometimes this may involve family patterns, behaviors that are not in line with one's values, or relationships that are no longer serving you. My job is to create safety for people to share their authentic selves, honoring strengths and navigating challenges together. My intention is to honor your gifts and to expand new ways of thinking or approaching situations to better meet your goals.
I serve Co-Occurring populations-those with mental health and substance use issues/Families with children with behavioral health challenges, LGBTQ populations, gender identity issues, sexuality, polyamory/non-traditional relationships.
I offer therapeutic sessions for individuals, couples, youth, and families. I help facilitate a process where people can develop insight and understanding of what may be holding them back from wellness, joy, and personal growth. Sometimes this may involve family patterns, behaviors that are not in line with one's values, or relationships that are no longer serving you. My job is to create safety for people to share their authentic selves, honoring strengths and navigating challenges together. My intention is to honor your gifts and to expand new ways of thinking or approaching situations to better meet your goals.
(206) 486-2113 View (206) 486-2113
Photo of Bonnie Deopp Clinical Supervisor, LMHC, CN, Counselor
Bonnie Deopp Clinical Supervisor
Counselor, LMHC, CN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! And Welcome. We would be a good fit if you are interested in exploring the impact of past experiences on your here and now responses of body sensations, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors through a mind-body approach. My areas of clinical focus are: 1).Complex Trauma and resulting Panic/Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Dysfunctional Coping, and Chronic Illness. 2).Loss of control when eating in adults and adolescents including Binge Eating Disorder, Bulimia, and Emotional Eating. 3). LGBTQ+ including gender affirming transitions 4). Addiction Recovery and Chronic Relapses 5). Fertility Issues and PCOS.
Hello! And Welcome. We would be a good fit if you are interested in exploring the impact of past experiences on your here and now responses of body sensations, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors through a mind-body approach. My areas of clinical focus are: 1).Complex Trauma and resulting Panic/Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Dysfunctional Coping, and Chronic Illness. 2).Loss of control when eating in adults and adolescents including Binge Eating Disorder, Bulimia, and Emotional Eating. 3). LGBTQ+ including gender affirming transitions 4). Addiction Recovery and Chronic Relapses 5). Fertility Issues and PCOS.
(206) 202-7076 View (206) 202-7076
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.