Photo of Kayla Brehm, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morganton, NC
Kayla Brehm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morganton, NC 28655  (Online Only)
As a clinical social worker, I value a strengths-based approach in meeting folks wherever they are in pursuing growth & recovery. I believe we all thrive in open & authentic relationships & it is important to accept people as they are. True healing is fostered through trusting relationships without judgment or shame. After 8 years of practicing in community mental health settings, I am beginning a private practice to continue supporting the community. I have worked with adolescents, families, & young adults with mental health concerns, trauma related distress, & substance use issues. I am open to working with adults of any age.
As a clinical social worker, I value a strengths-based approach in meeting folks wherever they are in pursuing growth & recovery. I believe we all thrive in open & authentic relationships & it is important to accept people as they are. True healing is fostered through trusting relationships without judgment or shame. After 8 years of practicing in community mental health settings, I am beginning a private practice to continue supporting the community. I have worked with adolescents, families, & young adults with mental health concerns, trauma related distress, & substance use issues. I am open to working with adults of any age.
(814) 527-3849 View (814) 527-3849
Photo of Brenton Queen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Morganton, NC
Brenton Queen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Morganton, NC 28655
My ideal client is someone who is ready for new results. I love helping people create what is really important for their life, and I am committed to being someone who can push them to have it. The most successful couples I work with have struggled with infidelity, considered divorce, or lost the fireworks in their marriage. The most successful individuals I work with have struggled with anxiety, addiction, intimacy issues, death/loss, or finding a purpose. All of my clients who succeed are open to exploring new ideas and hungry for change. Our conversations are action-oriented and results driven. Most of our sessions are fun.
My ideal client is someone who is ready for new results. I love helping people create what is really important for their life, and I am committed to being someone who can push them to have it. The most successful couples I work with have struggled with infidelity, considered divorce, or lost the fireworks in their marriage. The most successful individuals I work with have struggled with anxiety, addiction, intimacy issues, death/loss, or finding a purpose. All of my clients who succeed are open to exploring new ideas and hungry for change. Our conversations are action-oriented and results driven. Most of our sessions are fun.
(828) 835-2229 View (828) 835-2229
Photo of Travis Woodruff in Morganton, NC
Travis Woodruff
MA, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Morganton, NC 28655
Often those things in life that are most difficult are natural parts of life, known as givens – Freedom, Death, Isolation, Meaninglessness. Being confronted with these givens can create anxiety, which can lead to significant consequences. Everyone who looks for a therapist does it because there is something that is blocking their happiness. It might be something external that caused you to look, but you have it within you to set yourself free. Waiting for the world, your boss, your significant other to make things better for you gives someone else control over your happiness.
Often those things in life that are most difficult are natural parts of life, known as givens – Freedom, Death, Isolation, Meaninglessness. Being confronted with these givens can create anxiety, which can lead to significant consequences. Everyone who looks for a therapist does it because there is something that is blocking their happiness. It might be something external that caused you to look, but you have it within you to set yourself free. Waiting for the world, your boss, your significant other to make things better for you gives someone else control over your happiness.
(828) 414-2448 View (828) 414-2448
Photo of Gwynn J Austin, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Morganton, NC
Gwynn J Austin
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Morganton, NC 28655
People are complex and sometimes need help sorting through difficulties. Do you find yourself stuck in a pattern--a relationship malfunction or an unhealthy life-style--which you have tried to change, and cannot? The key to unlocking the process of change is to develop awareness of the underlying meanings behind these patterns, the "the how and why" of the patterns. When you compassionately understand how your implicit beliefs inform your actions and experience, you can help your system heal. All parts of your system need conscious connection with you, It is designed to heal. My role is to facilitate that natural process.
People are complex and sometimes need help sorting through difficulties. Do you find yourself stuck in a pattern--a relationship malfunction or an unhealthy life-style--which you have tried to change, and cannot? The key to unlocking the process of change is to develop awareness of the underlying meanings behind these patterns, the "the how and why" of the patterns. When you compassionately understand how your implicit beliefs inform your actions and experience, you can help your system heal. All parts of your system need conscious connection with you, It is designed to heal. My role is to facilitate that natural process.
(828) 332-5553 View (828) 332-5553
Photo of Shelley Haney, Pastoral Counselor in Morganton, NC
Shelley Haney
Pastoral Counselor, BS, BCCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morganton, NC 28655
My life experiences and personal testimony is evidence of God's ability to restore and redeem. My journey in becoming a counselor has given me an understanding for the need to see others through God's perspective, a holistic view in providing care and compassion, while ministering to individuals using various resources and methods. No one person or situation is alike. The uniqueness to your story requires personal insight while allowing the Holy Spirit to heal the inner person. I use biblically based teaching intertwined with psychological tools, to minister to the entire person: mind, body, spirit, soul.
My life experiences and personal testimony is evidence of God's ability to restore and redeem. My journey in becoming a counselor has given me an understanding for the need to see others through God's perspective, a holistic view in providing care and compassion, while ministering to individuals using various resources and methods. No one person or situation is alike. The uniqueness to your story requires personal insight while allowing the Holy Spirit to heal the inner person. I use biblically based teaching intertwined with psychological tools, to minister to the entire person: mind, body, spirit, soul.
(828) 949-1267 View (828) 949-1267
Photo of David Oakes Kneen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morganton, NC
David Oakes Kneen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Morganton, NC 28655
I love being a biblical counselor because I love seeing God bring hope and change into the tender and difficult places of our relationships, emotions, and pains of life. It is such a privilege to be invited into the lives of my clients. I see clients with marital, parenting, and other relationship struggles. I see them as they are coping with trauma, grief, and the usual transitions and struggles of life. I see them as they engage with anxiety, depression, or the weight of guilt and shame. I would be thrilled to join you, for a time, along your path.
I love being a biblical counselor because I love seeing God bring hope and change into the tender and difficult places of our relationships, emotions, and pains of life. It is such a privilege to be invited into the lives of my clients. I see clients with marital, parenting, and other relationship struggles. I see them as they are coping with trauma, grief, and the usual transitions and struggles of life. I see them as they engage with anxiety, depression, or the weight of guilt and shame. I would be thrilled to join you, for a time, along your path.
(704) 469-4235 View (704) 469-4235
Photo of Liza M. Shaw, Marriage & Family Therapist in Morganton, NC
Liza M. Shaw
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ACHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morganton, NC 28655
I consider it my personal mission to reduce the divorce rate in the United States, 1 couple at a time. But preventing divorce will only be succesful if, in place of unfulfilling or chronically dysfunctional marriages, couples develop truly thriving marriages & deeply fulfilling relationships. Even in the most hopeless-seeming cases, couples can heal the damage from the past and move forward in a healthier way. Not all marriages can be saved, but when couples do the work to heal the past, their future can be happier, no matter what the outcome for the relationship.
I consider it my personal mission to reduce the divorce rate in the United States, 1 couple at a time. But preventing divorce will only be succesful if, in place of unfulfilling or chronically dysfunctional marriages, couples develop truly thriving marriages & deeply fulfilling relationships. Even in the most hopeless-seeming cases, couples can heal the damage from the past and move forward in a healthier way. Not all marriages can be saved, but when couples do the work to heal the past, their future can be happier, no matter what the outcome for the relationship.
(828) 202-3074 View (828) 202-3074
Photo of Russell Goodwin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morganton, NC
Russell Goodwin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Morganton, NC 28655  (Online Only)
I am a solutions-focused Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) licensed in North Carolina since 2009. I have extensive experience working with adult populations and, in particular, those who struggle with depression, anxiety, and existential concerns. I hold a masters degree in professional counseling as well as masters degrees in two other disciplines (business, education). I am active in higher education having served as an undergraduate human services instructor since 2009.
I am a solutions-focused Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) licensed in North Carolina since 2009. I have extensive experience working with adult populations and, in particular, those who struggle with depression, anxiety, and existential concerns. I hold a masters degree in professional counseling as well as masters degrees in two other disciplines (business, education). I am active in higher education having served as an undergraduate human services instructor since 2009.
(828) 827-1936 View (828) 827-1936
Photo of Elizabeth Whitesides, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morganton, NC
Elizabeth Whitesides
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Morganton, NC 28655
Not accepting new clients
Ready to take the first step towards creating the life you want? It takes courage and awareness. Make the changes within yourself to improve life's journey. I am here to help you realize your inherent strength, wisdom, and access to your own inner healer... all the while providing encouragement and support along the way. Licensed as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Clinical Addictions Specialist, I have 15 years of experience working with women, men, and couples, of all ages and backgrounds. I believe in your ability to create transformation for yourself through commitment and our work together.
Ready to take the first step towards creating the life you want? It takes courage and awareness. Make the changes within yourself to improve life's journey. I am here to help you realize your inherent strength, wisdom, and access to your own inner healer... all the while providing encouragement and support along the way. Licensed as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Clinical Addictions Specialist, I have 15 years of experience working with women, men, and couples, of all ages and backgrounds. I believe in your ability to create transformation for yourself through commitment and our work together.
(828) 548-1514 View (828) 548-1514

Online Therapists

Open Hearts Healing Minds Corporation
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27105
We specialize in substance use and recovery, trauma, attachment issues, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, academic struggles, improving family life, anger management, interpersonal issues, women's issues, LGBTQ+, and improving communication.
We believe in the client being the expert on what they need and the power of the therapeutic relationship. We believe in partnering with the client to foster healing, introspection, and growth. We are enthusiastically committed to helping people holistically—integrating mind, body, and spirit. We will work together to develop your short and long-term goals and to continue this collaboration throughout our work together. We utilize an eclectic approach to meet the therapeutic needs of each client. We serve adolescents (15-17), adults (18+), couples, and families. We bring an array of experience to ensure your needs are met.
We specialize in substance use and recovery, trauma, attachment issues, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, academic struggles, improving family life, anger management, interpersonal issues, women's issues, LGBTQ+, and improving communication.
We believe in the client being the expert on what they need and the power of the therapeutic relationship. We believe in partnering with the client to foster healing, introspection, and growth. We are enthusiastically committed to helping people holistically—integrating mind, body, and spirit. We will work together to develop your short and long-term goals and to continue this collaboration throughout our work together. We utilize an eclectic approach to meet the therapeutic needs of each client. We serve adolescents (15-17), adults (18+), couples, and families. We bring an array of experience to ensure your needs are met.
(336) 568-8101 View (336) 568-8101
Photo of Todd E Byrd in Morganton, NC
Todd E Byrd
MDiv, MA, LCMHC, NCC, CSAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28601
My specialty area of focus is with individuals and couples whose lives have been affected by sexual addiction.
My work is focused on helping older adolescents and men deal with life's challenges, struggles, and difficulties with particular emphasis and attention to the unique concerns and needs of men. I provide individual, marital and family counseling, counseling for relationship concerns, men's issues, adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, spirituality, communication, intimacy, attachment, self-esteem difficulties, and trauma work.
My specialty area of focus is with individuals and couples whose lives have been affected by sexual addiction.
My work is focused on helping older adolescents and men deal with life's challenges, struggles, and difficulties with particular emphasis and attention to the unique concerns and needs of men. I provide individual, marital and family counseling, counseling for relationship concerns, men's issues, adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, spirituality, communication, intimacy, attachment, self-esteem difficulties, and trauma work.
(828) 476-4297 View (828) 476-4297
Photo of Maggie Boyle, Art Therapist in Morganton, NC
Maggie Boyle
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-P, LCMHC-A, LCAS
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
I am specifically inclined to work with folks who are curious about using the creative process to heal, who are LGBTQ+, who are interested in exploring new ways to find or relocate their intuitive voice to reconstruct and tell their story, and who are in recovery from substance use, imposter syndrome, or wounded childhoods.Compiling words together to form accurate depictions of personal narratives attached to life experiences can feel extremely daunting in talk therapy alone. With the invitation to use art, movement, metaphor, sound and play, exploring creativity can provide non-threatening means to access empowerment and healing.
I am specifically inclined to work with folks who are curious about using the creative process to heal, who are LGBTQ+, who are interested in exploring new ways to find or relocate their intuitive voice to reconstruct and tell their story, and who are in recovery from substance use, imposter syndrome, or wounded childhoods.Compiling words together to form accurate depictions of personal narratives attached to life experiences can feel extremely daunting in talk therapy alone. With the invitation to use art, movement, metaphor, sound and play, exploring creativity can provide non-threatening means to access empowerment and healing.
(828) 537-8356 View (828) 537-8356
Photo of Rosalinda Thomas, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Morganton, NC
Rosalinda Thomas
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCAS, CCS, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
I am a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, Behavioral Health Clinical, Certified Clinical Supervisor, National Certified Addiction Counselor, and Substance Abuse Professional.
My goal is to help you achieve emotional wellness. A lot of times the problems we struggle with are based on underlying conditions not addressed, such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders. Underlying problems that may lead to risky behaviors, such as alcohol or drug use. Maybe there is no substance use, but other behaviors that are concerning to you or others. Let me work with you in redirecting negative thoughts, behaviors and actions.
I am a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, Behavioral Health Clinical, Certified Clinical Supervisor, National Certified Addiction Counselor, and Substance Abuse Professional.
My goal is to help you achieve emotional wellness. A lot of times the problems we struggle with are based on underlying conditions not addressed, such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders. Underlying problems that may lead to risky behaviors, such as alcohol or drug use. Maybe there is no substance use, but other behaviors that are concerning to you or others. Let me work with you in redirecting negative thoughts, behaviors and actions.
(336) 396-7560 View (336) 396-7560
Photo of Anna Warren, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morganton, NC
Anna Warren
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Pineville, NC 28134  (Online Only)
My focus is on youth and adults with a wide range of concerns including substance abuse, HIV/AIDS diagnosis, depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief, trauma, career challenges, and relationship issues.
I am passionate about helping people and giving them the opportunity to reach their highest potential. My therapeutic style is warm and compassionate which provides a safe place for one to be heard, understood, and respected. I have 25 years of experience working as a medical case manager, life coach, and educator.
My focus is on youth and adults with a wide range of concerns including substance abuse, HIV/AIDS diagnosis, depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief, trauma, career challenges, and relationship issues.
I am passionate about helping people and giving them the opportunity to reach their highest potential. My therapeutic style is warm and compassionate which provides a safe place for one to be heard, understood, and respected. I have 25 years of experience working as a medical case manager, life coach, and educator.
(980) 825-4032 View (980) 825-4032
Photo of The Lifestyle Center (Anger Management Classes), Licensed Professional Counselor in Morganton, NC
The Lifestyle Center (Anger Management Classes)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
We offer the following classes and mental health evaluations: Anger Management, Alcohol and Drug Awareness, Victim Impact (DUI/DWI), Parenting Skills, Domestic/Family Violence, Shoplifting & Theft, Cognitive Skills, Impulse Control and Moral Recognition Therapy (MRT), Court-Mandated Mental Health Evaluation, Trauma Assessment, and Substance Abuse Evaluation.
The Lifestyle Center offers Court-Approved Classes for adults and juveniles. Our classes are designed to help court-mandated individuals improve their decision-making skills in all areas of life. With us, each person will have a safe, non-judgmental space to explore and navigate the root of their issue.
We offer the following classes and mental health evaluations: Anger Management, Alcohol and Drug Awareness, Victim Impact (DUI/DWI), Parenting Skills, Domestic/Family Violence, Shoplifting & Theft, Cognitive Skills, Impulse Control and Moral Recognition Therapy (MRT), Court-Mandated Mental Health Evaluation, Trauma Assessment, and Substance Abuse Evaluation.
The Lifestyle Center offers Court-Approved Classes for adults and juveniles. Our classes are designed to help court-mandated individuals improve their decision-making skills in all areas of life. With us, each person will have a safe, non-judgmental space to explore and navigate the root of their issue.
(404) 882-3667 View (404) 882-3667
Photo of David Shein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morganton, NC
David Shein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
David specializes in individual, couples and group therapy related to: substance use disorders; corporate mental health and wellness; executive coaching; life goals/skills development and implementation; relationships (couples, family, workplace); anxiety; depression, anger; self-esteem; shame; grief and loss; and, crisis intervention.
David Shein uses a collaborative and strengths-based approach with each of his clients. When developing a treatment plan, David believes in leveraging a client’s self-knowledge, and will always meet clients where they are emotionally, cognitively, and physically. David incorporates humor, music, literature, media, and sports in his therapeutic work, and integrates a variety of evidenced-based treatment interventions to address behavioral health issues, including: Motivational Interviewing; CBT; EMDR; Twelve-Step Facilitation Therapy; and Acceptance Commitment Therapy.
David specializes in individual, couples and group therapy related to: substance use disorders; corporate mental health and wellness; executive coaching; life goals/skills development and implementation; relationships (couples, family, workplace); anxiety; depression, anger; self-esteem; shame; grief and loss; and, crisis intervention.
David Shein uses a collaborative and strengths-based approach with each of his clients. When developing a treatment plan, David believes in leveraging a client’s self-knowledge, and will always meet clients where they are emotionally, cognitively, and physically. David incorporates humor, music, literature, media, and sports in his therapeutic work, and integrates a variety of evidenced-based treatment interventions to address behavioral health issues, including: Motivational Interviewing; CBT; EMDR; Twelve-Step Facilitation Therapy; and Acceptance Commitment Therapy.
(704) 775-6948 View (704) 775-6948
Photo of Erin Harvey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morganton, NC
Erin Harvey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Indian Trail, NC 28079
I have proficiency working with individuals and families of various backgrounds struggling with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar, autism, ADHD, substance abuse and relationship difficulties.
Looking for a therapist can be overwhelming and intimidating. My goal is to provide you a safe haven that is comfortable for healing to take place. Together we will work for a common goal of wellness.
I have proficiency working with individuals and families of various backgrounds struggling with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar, autism, ADHD, substance abuse and relationship difficulties.
Looking for a therapist can be overwhelming and intimidating. My goal is to provide you a safe haven that is comfortable for healing to take place. Together we will work for a common goal of wellness.
(704) 508-9474 View (704) 508-9474
Photo of Kristin Kirk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morganton, NC
Kristin Kirk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Davidson, NC 28036
Working with individuals, couples and families, my work integrates Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Family Systems therapy with Mindfulness Based Interventions to treat a variety of issues including depression, stress and anxiety, grief, addiction/co-addiction, relationship issues, identity and esteem, trauma, chronic illness, life transitions and spirituality.
Do you feel anxious, lost or alone? Is it difficult for you to share your feelings with others? Do you long for more love, joy and meaning in your life and relationships? Do you feel so busy taking care of others that you have neglected yourself? Would you like to experience more freedom, connection and passion? Psychotherapy is an effective, dynamic, interpersonal experience that can help transform your life and relationships. Using an interactive, sincere and supportive style, frustrating patterns can be unraveled to create more satisfaction, pleasure and balance in your life.
Working with individuals, couples and families, my work integrates Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Family Systems therapy with Mindfulness Based Interventions to treat a variety of issues including depression, stress and anxiety, grief, addiction/co-addiction, relationship issues, identity and esteem, trauma, chronic illness, life transitions and spirituality.
Do you feel anxious, lost or alone? Is it difficult for you to share your feelings with others? Do you long for more love, joy and meaning in your life and relationships? Do you feel so busy taking care of others that you have neglected yourself? Would you like to experience more freedom, connection and passion? Psychotherapy is an effective, dynamic, interpersonal experience that can help transform your life and relationships. Using an interactive, sincere and supportive style, frustrating patterns can be unraveled to create more satisfaction, pleasure and balance in your life.
(704) 237-0421 View (704) 237-0421
Photo of Yazmeen A Garcia, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Morganton, NC
Yazmeen A Garcia
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
I currently serve clients from ages 10-100, with my primary focus being adolescents and adults. I am a mental health counselor as well as a licensed clinical addiction specialist, meaning I love working with both mental health disorders and addictions. When working with mental health, I serve those struggling with anxiety/depression, trauma/sexual abuse, bipolar I or II disorder, dissociative-identity disorder, grief, self-esteem concerns, identity matters, religious or spiritual factors, stress management, and those on the autism spectrum. My goals for my clients are to be able to increase their sense of self-worth and autonomy.
I currently serve clients from ages 10-100, with my primary focus being adolescents and adults. I am a mental health counselor as well as a licensed clinical addiction specialist, meaning I love working with both mental health disorders and addictions. When working with mental health, I serve those struggling with anxiety/depression, trauma/sexual abuse, bipolar I or II disorder, dissociative-identity disorder, grief, self-esteem concerns, identity matters, religious or spiritual factors, stress management, and those on the autism spectrum. My goals for my clients are to be able to increase their sense of self-worth and autonomy.
(980) 261-3768 View (980) 261-3768
Photo of Dr. Gregory S Phipps, Counselor in Morganton, NC
Dr. Gregory S Phipps
Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Belmont, NC 28012
I specialize in behavioral addictions such as video game and technology addiction.
Now accepting new clients in-person and online. I serve and support individuals dealing with mental health concerns, developmental issues, and life transitions. I believe all individuals have inherent worth, seek meaning/purpose, and strive to be their best selves. My job is to work with you and help you empower yourself to understand and enact these principles. I am heavily strength-based, meaning I try to help you find your personal strengths and skills, so you can learn to manage life's many challenges well. I draw ideas and techniques from Adlerian Individual Psychology, CBT, expressive arts, and narrative therapy.
I specialize in behavioral addictions such as video game and technology addiction.
Now accepting new clients in-person and online. I serve and support individuals dealing with mental health concerns, developmental issues, and life transitions. I believe all individuals have inherent worth, seek meaning/purpose, and strive to be their best selves. My job is to work with you and help you empower yourself to understand and enact these principles. I am heavily strength-based, meaning I try to help you find your personal strengths and skills, so you can learn to manage life's many challenges well. I draw ideas and techniques from Adlerian Individual Psychology, CBT, expressive arts, and narrative therapy.
(336) 804-8326 View (336) 804-8326
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.