Addiction Therapists in Merrimack County, NH

Photo of Innate Therapeutic Services, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Merrimack County, NH
Innate Therapeutic Services
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MLADC, LADC, LICSW
Verified Verified
Franklin, NH 03235
Innate Therapeutic Services offers state of the art approaches to evaluate and treat substance use disorders and mental health concerns. We are staffed with a MLADC, LADC, and an LICSW to address any needs. Our clinicians provide initial assessments, facilitate individual and group therapy, complete LADC evaluations, and coordinate client services. We offer an Intensive Outpatient Program that can work with your work schedule. We have NH approved Impaired Driver Service Providers for those convicted of DUI/DWI and in need of aftercare. Call (603) 671-7045 to schedule an intake to see how we can help you today!
Innate Therapeutic Services offers state of the art approaches to evaluate and treat substance use disorders and mental health concerns. We are staffed with a MLADC, LADC, and an LICSW to address any needs. Our clinicians provide initial assessments, facilitate individual and group therapy, complete LADC evaluations, and coordinate client services. We offer an Intensive Outpatient Program that can work with your work schedule. We have NH approved Impaired Driver Service Providers for those convicted of DUI/DWI and in need of aftercare. Call (603) 671-7045 to schedule an intake to see how we can help you today!
(603) 671-7045 View (603) 671-7045
Photo of Kayla Rivard, Pre-Licensed Professional in Merrimack County, NH
Kayla Rivard
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, NH 03301
A mental health counselor is a professional who helps individuals, couples, and families navigate through various mental health challenges and improve their overall well-being. They provide support, guidance, and therapy to clients dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, relationship problems, and more. As a mental health counselor, my primary goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I use evidence-based therapeutic techniques to help clients gain insight, develop coping skills, and make positive changes in their lives.
A mental health counselor is a professional who helps individuals, couples, and families navigate through various mental health challenges and improve their overall well-being. They provide support, guidance, and therapy to clients dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, relationship problems, and more. As a mental health counselor, my primary goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I use evidence-based therapeutic techniques to help clients gain insight, develop coping skills, and make positive changes in their lives.
(603) 316-6695 View (603) 316-6695
Photo of Sarah Ziegler, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Merrimack County, NH
Sarah Ziegler
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, MLADC, MAC, ICAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Concord, NH 03301
While the majority of my work is in the area of substance use/misuse and recovery, I also work with individuals in regards to trauma and recovery, and with family members of addicted individuals.
I work with clients from various backgrounds with the belief that people can make the changes in their lives if they have the support and tools to do so. I have a client-centered, strength based approach to treatment to help clients find what they need to live the life that they want. My primary focus is on substance use/misuse, recovery, and any related mental health issues, as well as exploring coping skills, and anger/emotional management. I feel that clients deserve an empathetic therapist that will work closely with them to find strength to overcome life's obstacles.
While the majority of my work is in the area of substance use/misuse and recovery, I also work with individuals in regards to trauma and recovery, and with family members of addicted individuals.
I work with clients from various backgrounds with the belief that people can make the changes in their lives if they have the support and tools to do so. I have a client-centered, strength based approach to treatment to help clients find what they need to live the life that they want. My primary focus is on substance use/misuse, recovery, and any related mental health issues, as well as exploring coping skills, and anger/emotional management. I feel that clients deserve an empathetic therapist that will work closely with them to find strength to overcome life's obstacles.
(603) 556-1604 View (603) 556-1604
Photo of danielle delloiacono, Art Therapist in Merrimack County, NH
danielle delloiacono
Art Therapist, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Concord, NH 03303  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, unexpected life events, or addiction? Let me guide you with my open-minded approach, whether you prefer talk therapy or using the art therapy approach, it's up to you. I have over a decade of experience working in the mental health field. We can work together on healthy coping skills, improving boundaries, processing grief, and learning ways to express yourself in these unsettling times. When attending session you can gain a stronger self-esteem, self-worth, and healthy communication skills. Online sessions only.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, unexpected life events, or addiction? Let me guide you with my open-minded approach, whether you prefer talk therapy or using the art therapy approach, it's up to you. I have over a decade of experience working in the mental health field. We can work together on healthy coping skills, improving boundaries, processing grief, and learning ways to express yourself in these unsettling times. When attending session you can gain a stronger self-esteem, self-worth, and healthy communication skills. Online sessions only.
(978) 619-8620 View (978) 619-8620
Photo of Dottie Moffitt, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Merrimack County, NH
Dottie Moffitt
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, BA, LADC
Verified Verified
New London, NH 03257  (Online Only)
Dottie is a licensed drug and alcohol counselor with over a decade of experience in outpatient and inpatient treatment, as well as within the department of corrections. Dottie's tele-health practice focuses on substance use dependence and co-occurring disorders. Dottie approaches her clients with empathy, humor and compassion as she works with clients to uncover the why of substance use, which then allows for a focus on increasing self-worth, love of self, healing from trauma and any co-occurring diagnosis.
Dottie is a licensed drug and alcohol counselor with over a decade of experience in outpatient and inpatient treatment, as well as within the department of corrections. Dottie's tele-health practice focuses on substance use dependence and co-occurring disorders. Dottie approaches her clients with empathy, humor and compassion as she works with clients to uncover the why of substance use, which then allows for a focus on increasing self-worth, love of self, healing from trauma and any co-occurring diagnosis.
(603) 865-1321 View (603) 865-1321
Photo of Melyssa Manock, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Merrimack County, NH
Melyssa Manock
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, MLADC
Verified Verified
Franklin, NH 03235
I am a Master Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor at an outpatient counseling center, Innate Therapeutic Services located in Franklin, NH. I provide individual and group therapy, complete LADC evaluations, and coordinate client services for those suffering with a substance use disorder and mental health concerns. I am a NH approved Impaired Driver Service Provider and work closely with IDCMPs for those convicted of DUI/DWI. I specialize in new state of the art approaches and have years of experience working with clients from all backgrounds in various stages of recovery. Call (603) 671-7045 to schedule an intake appointment.
I am a Master Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor at an outpatient counseling center, Innate Therapeutic Services located in Franklin, NH. I provide individual and group therapy, complete LADC evaluations, and coordinate client services for those suffering with a substance use disorder and mental health concerns. I am a NH approved Impaired Driver Service Provider and work closely with IDCMPs for those convicted of DUI/DWI. I specialize in new state of the art approaches and have years of experience working with clients from all backgrounds in various stages of recovery. Call (603) 671-7045 to schedule an intake appointment.
(603) 671-7045 View (603) 671-7045
Photo of Fuse Psychotherapy, Counselor in Merrimack County, NH
Fuse Psychotherapy
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Concord, NH 03301
I can't believe I just yelled again, that was never me. My mood swings keep getting in the way of my relationships. I don't want to keep reaching for the bottle, but how else am I supposed to cope? We offer individual and couple's therapy treating substance use, mood, and personality disorders. Tired of feeling like you’re the only one? Try a group therapy session. You’ll be joined by 6-10 other people who are going through the same thing. It’s also a more affordable alternative available during those coveted evening and weekend times.
I can't believe I just yelled again, that was never me. My mood swings keep getting in the way of my relationships. I don't want to keep reaching for the bottle, but how else am I supposed to cope? We offer individual and couple's therapy treating substance use, mood, and personality disorders. Tired of feeling like you’re the only one? Try a group therapy session. You’ll be joined by 6-10 other people who are going through the same thing. It’s also a more affordable alternative available during those coveted evening and weekend times.
(844) 517-0969 View (844) 517-0969
Photo of Kate R. Murphy, Psychologist in Merrimack County, NH
Kate R. Murphy
Psychologist, PsyD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Concord, NH 03302  (Online Only)
Kate has worked with a variety of client populations and has an interest in working with adults, adolescents, and children experiencing anxiety, depression, divorce, substance misuse, self-esteem, gender identity, life transitions, and relationship problems.
Kate Murphy has worked since 2008 with adults, adolescents, children and couples to help them overcome anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties and other life challenges. She is a licensed clinical mental health counselor and licensed psychologist with a Doctorate in Counseling and School Psychology from Rivier University. Her clinical work often consists of mindfulness based approaches and to help others become aware of the thoughts and behaviors that we experience that lead to much of what causes our distress.
Kate has worked with a variety of client populations and has an interest in working with adults, adolescents, and children experiencing anxiety, depression, divorce, substance misuse, self-esteem, gender identity, life transitions, and relationship problems.
Kate Murphy has worked since 2008 with adults, adolescents, children and couples to help them overcome anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties and other life challenges. She is a licensed clinical mental health counselor and licensed psychologist with a Doctorate in Counseling and School Psychology from Rivier University. Her clinical work often consists of mindfulness based approaches and to help others become aware of the thoughts and behaviors that we experience that lead to much of what causes our distress.
(603) 691-2842 View (603) 691-2842
Photo of Judith Fournier, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Merrimack County, NH
Judith Fournier
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CPS, MLADC
Verified Verified
Concord, NH 03301  (Online Only)
Some of the areas I have experience providing guidance in are: grief, bereavement, life transitions, depression, anxiety, drug addiction and relapse prevention.
I am a Master Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. My scope of practice includes counseling for those struggling with drug and/or alcohol issues for themselves or those in their lives as well as mental health issues. I have worked with clients of all ages for nearly 25 yrs. I provide drug and alcohol evaluations with a lead time of at least one month. I primarily meet with clients at the end of the day by Zoom/phone, now throughout New Hampshire.
Some of the areas I have experience providing guidance in are: grief, bereavement, life transitions, depression, anxiety, drug addiction and relapse prevention.
I am a Master Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. My scope of practice includes counseling for those struggling with drug and/or alcohol issues for themselves or those in their lives as well as mental health issues. I have worked with clients of all ages for nearly 25 yrs. I provide drug and alcohol evaluations with a lead time of at least one month. I primarily meet with clients at the end of the day by Zoom/phone, now throughout New Hampshire.
(603) 651-0071 View (603) 651-0071
Photo of Michael Lawless, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrimack County, NH
Michael Lawless
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, MLADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03106
As a dually licensed clinician I specialize in a number of areas to include; a holistic approach to psychotherapy, Evaluation, 1:1 counseling, Assessment, Impaired driving (IDSP services), and intervention. I truly value supporting people who may be experiencing many of life's challenges with trauma, addiction, substance misuse, anxiety, depression and anger management. I'd be honored to work with you. I believe you are the author and expert in your own life. My goal is to help you identify your goals and to be supportive as we work together towards accomplishing them.
As a dually licensed clinician I specialize in a number of areas to include; a holistic approach to psychotherapy, Evaluation, 1:1 counseling, Assessment, Impaired driving (IDSP services), and intervention. I truly value supporting people who may be experiencing many of life's challenges with trauma, addiction, substance misuse, anxiety, depression and anger management. I'd be honored to work with you. I believe you are the author and expert in your own life. My goal is to help you identify your goals and to be supportive as we work together towards accomplishing them.
(603) 473-4080 View (603) 473-4080
Photo of Kristin Emery, Pre-Licensed Professional in Merrimack County, NH
Kristin Emery
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, NH 03235
I provide services for a wide range of issues that include; depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, relational issues, grief, addiction, life coaching, and coping skills.
I provide healing in wellness as you navigate your mental health issues. Whether you are someone who needs a lot of help or just someone who needs to process daily stressors, I am here to help. My focus is to help heal and build confidence within oneself and provide a positive experience where you see real change and real results. I focus on listening to my clients and what they believe they need and creating realistic goals you can achieve. Every client is different and I will help you create an individualized plan that works for you and your lifestyle. I help you by listening intently to your struggles while being there for you.
I provide services for a wide range of issues that include; depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, relational issues, grief, addiction, life coaching, and coping skills.
I provide healing in wellness as you navigate your mental health issues. Whether you are someone who needs a lot of help or just someone who needs to process daily stressors, I am here to help. My focus is to help heal and build confidence within oneself and provide a positive experience where you see real change and real results. I focus on listening to my clients and what they believe they need and creating realistic goals you can achieve. Every client is different and I will help you create an individualized plan that works for you and your lifestyle. I help you by listening intently to your struggles while being there for you.
(802) 589-4016 View (802) 589-4016
Photo of Charles Sexton-Diranian, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Merrimack County, NH
Charles Sexton-Diranian
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03106
GH Recovery Solutions is a private drug and alcohol rehab providing intervention and treatment services to those suffering from substance use, and individuals with co-occurring mental health issues. We provide individualized treatment in a small, gender-specific environment. Also, GH Recovery offers one of the only comprehensive vocational programs in New England. At GH Recovery, evidence-based practice is applied along with creative and cutting-edge interventions. We provide extraordinary individualized care and enable our clients to gain insight into their underlying factors driving addictive behaviors and unhealthy coping skills.
GH Recovery Solutions is a private drug and alcohol rehab providing intervention and treatment services to those suffering from substance use, and individuals with co-occurring mental health issues. We provide individualized treatment in a small, gender-specific environment. Also, GH Recovery offers one of the only comprehensive vocational programs in New England. At GH Recovery, evidence-based practice is applied along with creative and cutting-edge interventions. We provide extraordinary individualized care and enable our clients to gain insight into their underlying factors driving addictive behaviors and unhealthy coping skills.
(603) 691-3294 View (603) 691-3294
Photo of Marie-Elizabeth Ramas in Merrimack County, NH
Marie-Elizabeth Ramas
MD, FAAFP
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03106
GateHouse Treatment is a private substance abuse center providing intervention and treatment services to those struggling with substance use disorders and individuals with co-occurring mental health disorders. We provide individualized treatment in a small, gender-specific environment. Also, GateHouse offers one of the only comprehensive vocational programs in Nashua, New Hampshire. At GateHouse, our evidence-based practice is applied along with creative interventions. We provide extraordinary individualized care and enable our clients to gain insight into their underlying factors driving addictive behaviors.
GateHouse Treatment is a private substance abuse center providing intervention and treatment services to those struggling with substance use disorders and individuals with co-occurring mental health disorders. We provide individualized treatment in a small, gender-specific environment. Also, GateHouse offers one of the only comprehensive vocational programs in Nashua, New Hampshire. At GateHouse, our evidence-based practice is applied along with creative interventions. We provide extraordinary individualized care and enable our clients to gain insight into their underlying factors driving addictive behaviors.
(844) 977-4321 View (844) 977-4321
Photo of Donna B. Lennon, Counselor in Merrimack County, NH
Donna B. Lennon
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, MLADC, CADC-ll
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Concord, NH 03301
I’m privileged to work with adults raised under challenging circumstances, those who seek recovery from the effects of substance misuse or other life challenges.
Now FT with a new office in Nashua, limited openings. As a dually licensed and seasoned therapist, I will partner with you to help you find solutions. Do you frequently worry, focus on negative thoughts, neglect your own needs or struggle to “let go?” Are you a caregiver with feelings of burnout? Any concerns about your relationship with alcohol, drugs or food? Are you “sober” yet restless, irritable or alone? Our work together will be genuine & focused on your individual needs. While some therapies can focus on pathology & take years of exploration, our primary focus is on how your life circumstances affect you here & now.
I’m privileged to work with adults raised under challenging circumstances, those who seek recovery from the effects of substance misuse or other life challenges.
Now FT with a new office in Nashua, limited openings. As a dually licensed and seasoned therapist, I will partner with you to help you find solutions. Do you frequently worry, focus on negative thoughts, neglect your own needs or struggle to “let go?” Are you a caregiver with feelings of burnout? Any concerns about your relationship with alcohol, drugs or food? Are you “sober” yet restless, irritable or alone? Our work together will be genuine & focused on your individual needs. While some therapies can focus on pathology & take years of exploration, our primary focus is on how your life circumstances affect you here & now.
(833) 278-5373 View (833) 278-5373
Photo of Rex L Bunnell, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Merrimack County, NH
Rex L Bunnell
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, MLADC
Verified Verified
Concord, NH 03301
One of the most important things that I have learned over time is that the opposite of addiction is human connection.
My name is Rex L. Bunnell, a master's level licensed alcohol and drug counselor at Wallastook Counseling. I have over 25 years of experience working in the addictions field. I not only understand the entire process of how recovery unfolds, but I also have a personal connection with recovery. Our first meeting gives the client and clinician an opportunity to develop a therapeutic alliance and presents the client with an opportunity to explore what his needs and goals are in counseling. Issues such as isolation, relationship conflicts, emotional dysregulation, and cognitive distortions all lead to alcohol and drug abuse.
One of the most important things that I have learned over time is that the opposite of addiction is human connection.
My name is Rex L. Bunnell, a master's level licensed alcohol and drug counselor at Wallastook Counseling. I have over 25 years of experience working in the addictions field. I not only understand the entire process of how recovery unfolds, but I also have a personal connection with recovery. Our first meeting gives the client and clinician an opportunity to develop a therapeutic alliance and presents the client with an opportunity to explore what his needs and goals are in counseling. Issues such as isolation, relationship conflicts, emotional dysregulation, and cognitive distortions all lead to alcohol and drug abuse.
(603) 945-0189 View (603) 945-0189
Photo of Mary Elizabeth Beach, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Merrimack County, NH
Mary Elizabeth Beach
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03106
GH Recovery Solutions is a private drug and alcohol rehab providing intervention and treatment services to those suffering from substance use, and individuals with co-occurring mental health issues. We provide individualized treatment in a small, gender-specific environment. Also, GH Recovery offers one of the only comprehensive vocational programs in New England. At GH Recovery, evidence-based practice is applied along with creative and cutting-edge interventions. We provide extraordinary individualized care and enable our clients to gain insight into their underlying factors driving addictive behaviors and unhealthy coping skills.
GH Recovery Solutions is a private drug and alcohol rehab providing intervention and treatment services to those suffering from substance use, and individuals with co-occurring mental health issues. We provide individualized treatment in a small, gender-specific environment. Also, GH Recovery offers one of the only comprehensive vocational programs in New England. At GH Recovery, evidence-based practice is applied along with creative and cutting-edge interventions. We provide extraordinary individualized care and enable our clients to gain insight into their underlying factors driving addictive behaviors and unhealthy coping skills.
(603) 691-3548 View (603) 691-3548
Photo of Michelle Lee Simons, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Merrimack County, NH
Michelle Lee Simons
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LADC, I, CADC, RCP
Verified Verified
Concord, NH 03302  (Online Only)
As a person in long term recovery myself I adopt a 'meet people where they're at' approach, ensuring individuals in any stage of recovery never feel judged for not being 'ready.' With over two decades of experience, I've worked in the field since 2002 with various substance use agencies in both urban and suburban areas. Additionally, I spent a prior decade engaging in 'field research' alongside years of integrated living experience. My personal journey has revealed that establishing a robust recovery support system, with a foundation in spirituality, can lead to a lasting and fulfilling life in recovery.
As a person in long term recovery myself I adopt a 'meet people where they're at' approach, ensuring individuals in any stage of recovery never feel judged for not being 'ready.' With over two decades of experience, I've worked in the field since 2002 with various substance use agencies in both urban and suburban areas. Additionally, I spent a prior decade engaging in 'field research' alongside years of integrated living experience. My personal journey has revealed that establishing a robust recovery support system, with a foundation in spirituality, can lead to a lasting and fulfilling life in recovery.
(781) 394-9823 View (781) 394-9823
Photo of Compass of Hope Counseling, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Merrimack County, NH
Compass of Hope Counseling
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCMHC , MLADC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, NH 03301
Compass of Hope Counseling is now offering substance abuse evaluations. These can be court ordered or voluntarily requested. Substance abuse evaluations look at the whole picture and give recommendations to help. Evaluations are generally completed in 3 one -hour-sessions. If the court ordered, we will need your discovery, arrest report, criminal history, and a report of your driving history with narrative and court order.
Compass of Hope Counseling is now offering substance abuse evaluations. These can be court ordered or voluntarily requested. Substance abuse evaluations look at the whole picture and give recommendations to help. Evaluations are generally completed in 3 one -hour-sessions. If the court ordered, we will need your discovery, arrest report, criminal history, and a report of your driving history with narrative and court order.
(844) 939-2812 View (844) 939-2812
Photo of Lisa Jayne Houle, Counselor in Merrimack County, NH
Lisa Jayne Houle
Counselor, LCMHC, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Concord, NH 03301
Lisa is a dually licensed clinician, with over twenty years of experience whom strives to catalyze individual's healing, growth, and transformation helping them align with their soul's purpose. She specializes in helping individuals recover from trauma, substance use disorder, anxiety, life transitions, and loss. She helps people transcend their suffering to achieve life satisfaction going beyond symptom elimination but toward discovering the root cause of their symptoms promoting self awareness, self understanding, self compassion and self forgiveness to move beyond shame into deep self acceptance.
Lisa is a dually licensed clinician, with over twenty years of experience whom strives to catalyze individual's healing, growth, and transformation helping them align with their soul's purpose. She specializes in helping individuals recover from trauma, substance use disorder, anxiety, life transitions, and loss. She helps people transcend their suffering to achieve life satisfaction going beyond symptom elimination but toward discovering the root cause of their symptoms promoting self awareness, self understanding, self compassion and self forgiveness to move beyond shame into deep self acceptance.
(603) 715-5263 View (603) 715-5263
Photo of Pete Afflerbach, Counselor in Merrimack County, NH
Pete Afflerbach
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New London, NH 03257
Pete has more than 15 years of experience as a teacher and counselor. Pete approaches his work from a systems perspective and his areas of interest include working with adolescents, individuals and families struggling with addiction, and couples. He also works with individuals of all ages to help them explore their beliefs and how those beliefs affect their present selves. Regardless of the root of symptoms, exploring how we think about ourselves and the world around us and working to replace the behaviors and beliefs that no longer serve us often help us get unstuck and move forward to achieving our goals.
Pete has more than 15 years of experience as a teacher and counselor. Pete approaches his work from a systems perspective and his areas of interest include working with adolescents, individuals and families struggling with addiction, and couples. He also works with individuals of all ages to help them explore their beliefs and how those beliefs affect their present selves. Regardless of the root of symptoms, exploring how we think about ourselves and the world around us and working to replace the behaviors and beliefs that no longer serve us often help us get unstuck and move forward to achieving our goals.
(603) 392-7876 View (603) 392-7876

See more therapy options for Merrimack County

Addiction Therapists

What is the best therapy for addiction?

Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.

How long does therapy for addiction take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.

How effective is drug addiction treatment?

Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?

The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.