Addiction Therapists in Toronto, ON

Photo of Men's Groups Toronto, Counsellor in Toronto, ON
Men's Groups Toronto
Counsellor, MA, Dip, ISH
Not Verified Not Verified
5 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6G
I have run men's groups for nearly 30 years helping men become more effective and loving husbands partners, fathers and sons as well as better stewards in their outside world.The aim of this Men's Group is to create a context where each man is able to be honest, vulnerable and feel safe enough to speak his previously undisclosed inner truth in the presence of other supportive men, and to feel and show emotions other than anger. A place where men can feel their deepest emotions - laugh and cry and restore a true brotherhood.
I have run men's groups for nearly 30 years helping men become more effective and loving husbands partners, fathers and sons as well as better stewards in their outside world.The aim of this Men's Group is to create a context where each man is able to be honest, vulnerable and feel safe enough to speak his previously undisclosed inner truth in the presence of other supportive men, and to feel and show emotions other than anger. A place where men can feel their deepest emotions - laugh and cry and restore a true brotherhood.
(855) 920-9808 View (855) 920-9808
Photo of Sehrish Haroon, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Sehrish Haroon
Registered Psychotherapist, MC, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M1T
Not accepting new clients
I am a Certified EMDR therapist & a Certified Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist, which are very effective & evidence-based therapies for Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Phobias, Substance Use, Chronic Pain & Eating disorders.
Do you feel overwhelmed & helpless, and end up using coping mechanisms that keep you further stuck in shame and guilt? Do you experience dissociation, anxiety, depression, low self esteem, anger, chronic pain & relationship issues? You may feel like an outsider among others, and carry a deep pain of loneliness due to unmet needs and relational traumas. You may live in constant fear of judgement or rejection from others, people pleasing or perfectionism that makes you feel burnout. I will provide wholehearted compassion & effective treatment support that helps you achieve your mental health goals, feel confident and safe with others.
I am a Certified EMDR therapist & a Certified Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist, which are very effective & evidence-based therapies for Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Phobias, Substance Use, Chronic Pain & Eating disorders.
Do you feel overwhelmed & helpless, and end up using coping mechanisms that keep you further stuck in shame and guilt? Do you experience dissociation, anxiety, depression, low self esteem, anger, chronic pain & relationship issues? You may feel like an outsider among others, and carry a deep pain of loneliness due to unmet needs and relational traumas. You may live in constant fear of judgement or rejection from others, people pleasing or perfectionism that makes you feel burnout. I will provide wholehearted compassion & effective treatment support that helps you achieve your mental health goals, feel confident and safe with others.
(226) 917-2834 View (226) 917-2834
Photo of Own Your Space Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Own Your Space Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M1T
Do you ever wonder why you keep on doing the things that you do? Your habits or rituals on a daily basis are sometimes hard to decipher or break. The shame, guilt, anger, Sadness, anxiety or depression that we may feel from repeatedly performing the same actions and thoughts, over and over again, may wear you down. By living more in the moment, and being more mindful of your daily activities, your true self will begin to see the workings of your ego. Your egoic mind is built on early childhood defenses and sub personalities that forms certain addictions and inefficient habits. It is important to be curious about your discomfort.
Do you ever wonder why you keep on doing the things that you do? Your habits or rituals on a daily basis are sometimes hard to decipher or break. The shame, guilt, anger, Sadness, anxiety or depression that we may feel from repeatedly performing the same actions and thoughts, over and over again, may wear you down. By living more in the moment, and being more mindful of your daily activities, your true self will begin to see the workings of your ego. Your egoic mind is built on early childhood defenses and sub personalities that forms certain addictions and inefficient habits. It is important to be curious about your discomfort.
(365) 655-6339 View (365) 655-6339
Photo of Steven Ross Therapy, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Steven Ross Therapy
Registered Social Worker, RSW, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4Y
I am an RSW LCSW psychotherapist with a private practice in Toronto and NY serving clients via Zoom/phone in Ontario, NY, NJ. I tend to see a broad assortment of people, many who are suffering from depression, anxiety, stress and difficulty coping. Some struggle with being single, others within their relationship, or with their sexual authenticity. Together through talk therapy we can find a pathway to a deeper understanding and a way to move forward with confidence and security My clients are from different worlds, heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, transgender, non-binary, young and old, single, married, and all those in-between.
I am an RSW LCSW psychotherapist with a private practice in Toronto and NY serving clients via Zoom/phone in Ontario, NY, NJ. I tend to see a broad assortment of people, many who are suffering from depression, anxiety, stress and difficulty coping. Some struggle with being single, others within their relationship, or with their sexual authenticity. Together through talk therapy we can find a pathway to a deeper understanding and a way to move forward with confidence and security My clients are from different worlds, heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, transgender, non-binary, young and old, single, married, and all those in-between.
(647) 694-7802 View (647) 694-7802
Photo of Angel Enrique Pacheco, Psychologist in Toronto, ON
Angel Enrique Pacheco
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4R  (Online Only)
I am a Humanistic Behavioral Clinical Psychologist with over four decades of professional experience, specialized in behavior therapy and behavioral medicine. I am dedicated to helping people function and feel better by providing them with individual, couples, and family psychotherapy. I work with persons of all ages and groups of reference; with persons of both sexes presenting sexual disorders, and with all couples in their interaction and intimacy problems, and specialized in performing individualized clinical assessments of children, youth, and adults. My goal as a professional is to help people... Learn to Live Better ®.
I am a Humanistic Behavioral Clinical Psychologist with over four decades of professional experience, specialized in behavior therapy and behavioral medicine. I am dedicated to helping people function and feel better by providing them with individual, couples, and family psychotherapy. I work with persons of all ages and groups of reference; with persons of both sexes presenting sexual disorders, and with all couples in their interaction and intimacy problems, and specialized in performing individualized clinical assessments of children, youth, and adults. My goal as a professional is to help people... Learn to Live Better ®.
(289) 312-1765 View (289) 312-1765
Photo of Marty Petrovich, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Marty Petrovich
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am experienced working with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, substance use concerns, major life changes and relationship issues.
Hello and welcome! I'm a Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist and I look forward to connecting with you. Searching for the right therapist can be a daunting task, especially when this is likely a vulnerable time in your life. I hope my profile can provide you with a bit of clarity and calm in your search. If we were to work together, my priority would be to build a trusting and genuine therapeutic relationship with you. I strive to provide a nonjudgmental, empathetic space for self-exploration, processing difficult experiences/emotions, and working towards your goals. I also always encourage feedback from you along the way.
I am experienced working with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, substance use concerns, major life changes and relationship issues.
Hello and welcome! I'm a Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist and I look forward to connecting with you. Searching for the right therapist can be a daunting task, especially when this is likely a vulnerable time in your life. I hope my profile can provide you with a bit of clarity and calm in your search. If we were to work together, my priority would be to build a trusting and genuine therapeutic relationship with you. I strive to provide a nonjudgmental, empathetic space for self-exploration, processing difficult experiences/emotions, and working towards your goals. I also always encourage feedback from you along the way.
(437) 747-3906 View (437) 747-3906
Photo of Dr. Rudolph Drummond, Psychologist in Toronto, ON
Dr. Rudolph Drummond
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M1T  (Online Only)
Dr. Rudolph Drummond is a registered psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario and a member of the Ontario Psychological Association. His areas of practice include counseling psychology, clinical psychology, and forensic psychology with adolescents, adults, and families. Dr. Drummond has more than 20 years of progressive clinical experience in various inpatient, community, and forensic mental health settings. He delivers evidence-based assessments and treatment services to diverse clients presenting with a range of mental health, emotional, behavioral, and adjustment problems.
Dr. Rudolph Drummond is a registered psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario and a member of the Ontario Psychological Association. His areas of practice include counseling psychology, clinical psychology, and forensic psychology with adolescents, adults, and families. Dr. Drummond has more than 20 years of progressive clinical experience in various inpatient, community, and forensic mental health settings. He delivers evidence-based assessments and treatment services to diverse clients presenting with a range of mental health, emotional, behavioral, and adjustment problems.
(647) 905-6483 View (647) 905-6483
Photo of Harjeet Kaur Badwall, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Harjeet Kaur Badwall
Registered Social Worker, PhD, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4Y  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Harjeet. Thank you for visiting my profile and exploring the possibility to connect with each other. I’ve been working in the field of Social Work for 20+ years. I’ve had the privilege to work with people from many walks of life, across a broad range of concerns, including, grief and loss, depression and anxiety, intimate partner violence, relationship concerns, and social inequities. Co-creating peaceful, collaborative and respectful connections are important in my practice. I use many approaches, but specialize in Narrative therapy.
Hi, I’m Harjeet. Thank you for visiting my profile and exploring the possibility to connect with each other. I’ve been working in the field of Social Work for 20+ years. I’ve had the privilege to work with people from many walks of life, across a broad range of concerns, including, grief and loss, depression and anxiety, intimate partner violence, relationship concerns, and social inequities. Co-creating peaceful, collaborative and respectful connections are important in my practice. I use many approaches, but specialize in Narrative therapy.
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Photo of Gui Mansilla, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Gui Mansilla
Registered Psychotherapist, Lawyer, MDiv, RP CRPO
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M9M
Are you tired of surviving and ready to recover your thriving capabilities? Do you find yourself lacking motivation or inspiration to act upon your dreams? Do you find that you have no dreams or can't seem to find a compelling future to move towards? Is your past preventing you from thoroughly enjoying your present? I have more than 17 thousand hours of direct client contact and decades of experience in the field. I am creative, compassionate, and resourceful and have created a "toolbox" of evidence-based methods to achieve positive and long-lasting change. I am confident that with commitment & perseverance, you can reach your goals
Are you tired of surviving and ready to recover your thriving capabilities? Do you find yourself lacking motivation or inspiration to act upon your dreams? Do you find that you have no dreams or can't seem to find a compelling future to move towards? Is your past preventing you from thoroughly enjoying your present? I have more than 17 thousand hours of direct client contact and decades of experience in the field. I am creative, compassionate, and resourceful and have created a "toolbox" of evidence-based methods to achieve positive and long-lasting change. I am confident that with commitment & perseverance, you can reach your goals
(289) 210-6231 View (289) 210-6231
Photo of Meagan Szwed, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Meagan Szwed
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4S
Hi, I'm Meagan! I am most passionate about working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship and sexuality concerns, personality disorders, caregiver burnout, and stressed-out mamas. I work from a trauma informed, antiracist, 2slgbtqia+ ally, harm reduction, sex positive, consumer survivor informed, feminist approach. What does all that mean? It means that I appreciate and accept YOU for YOU, no matter who you are.
Hi, I'm Meagan! I am most passionate about working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship and sexuality concerns, personality disorders, caregiver burnout, and stressed-out mamas. I work from a trauma informed, antiracist, 2slgbtqia+ ally, harm reduction, sex positive, consumer survivor informed, feminist approach. What does all that mean? It means that I appreciate and accept YOU for YOU, no matter who you are.
(289) 379-7917 View (289) 379-7917
Photo of Zohar Romm, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Toronto, ON
Zohar Romm
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2R
I have helped numerous individuals, couples and families overcome emotional and behavioural difficulties as well as promote happier, healthier living: Self Esteem, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Addiction, Sex Therapy, Coping Skills, Stress Management, Depression, Peer Relationships, Relationship Issues, Trauma and PTSD, Substance Use, Anxiety Disorders, Internet Addiction, Eating Disorders, Suicidal Ideation, Drug Abuse, Anger Management, Family Conflict - Mediation & Communication, Mood Disorders, Career Guidance, Alcohol Use, Anxiety, PTSD, Divorce, Antisocial Personality, OCD, Life Coaching, Men's Issues.
I have helped numerous individuals, couples and families overcome emotional and behavioural difficulties as well as promote happier, healthier living: Self Esteem, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Addiction, Sex Therapy, Coping Skills, Stress Management, Depression, Peer Relationships, Relationship Issues, Trauma and PTSD, Substance Use, Anxiety Disorders, Internet Addiction, Eating Disorders, Suicidal Ideation, Drug Abuse, Anger Management, Family Conflict - Mediation & Communication, Mood Disorders, Career Guidance, Alcohol Use, Anxiety, PTSD, Divorce, Antisocial Personality, OCD, Life Coaching, Men's Issues.
(289) 778-4136 View (289) 778-4136
Photo of Sonja Scheer, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Sonja Scheer
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R  (Online Only)
Welcome! I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy within my private practice, offering services to young adults, adults, couples, and groups. In therapy, we embark on a journey to deepen our understanding of emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Many individuals I work with express feelings of inadequacy, guilt/shame, anger, fear of confrontation, and a tendency towards people-pleasing. These emotions can manifest, impacting various aspects of their lives such as work dynamics, relationships, and self-perception. Together, we explore these patterns and emotions, possibly rooted in the unconscious, to foster healing and growth.
Welcome! I specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy within my private practice, offering services to young adults, adults, couples, and groups. In therapy, we embark on a journey to deepen our understanding of emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Many individuals I work with express feelings of inadequacy, guilt/shame, anger, fear of confrontation, and a tendency towards people-pleasing. These emotions can manifest, impacting various aspects of their lives such as work dynamics, relationships, and self-perception. Together, we explore these patterns and emotions, possibly rooted in the unconscious, to foster healing and growth.
(647) 697-3356 View (647) 697-3356
Photo of Harlene Kundhal, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Toronto, ON
Harlene Kundhal
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP (Q), RN
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M1T  (Online Only)
My passion is helping anyone struggling with addictions or substance use, and other emotional issues. Going through depression, experiencing anxiety, or dealing with loss can feel so overwhelming. Sometimes it feels like no one can help because they won't fully understand our issues. Talking to a professional can be the first step in healing.
My passion is helping anyone struggling with addictions or substance use, and other emotional issues. Going through depression, experiencing anxiety, or dealing with loss can feel so overwhelming. Sometimes it feels like no one can help because they won't fully understand our issues. Talking to a professional can be the first step in healing.
(249) 504-2525 View (249) 504-2525
Photo of Sarah Ferland, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Sarah Ferland
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6S  (Online Only)
As a Social Worker with over 7 years of experience, I specialize in guiding individuals through challenging times, particularly in the realm of trauma recovery. My primary focus is delving into the roots of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that may be hindering your progress. Life's pressures can be overwhelming, often leaving us feeling lost and down. I understand the weight of worthlessness, guilt, shame, anxiety, and depression that can take hold. In the case of trauma, its impact can be profound, affecting various aspects of our lives.
As a Social Worker with over 7 years of experience, I specialize in guiding individuals through challenging times, particularly in the realm of trauma recovery. My primary focus is delving into the roots of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that may be hindering your progress. Life's pressures can be overwhelming, often leaving us feeling lost and down. I understand the weight of worthlessness, guilt, shame, anxiety, and depression that can take hold. In the case of trauma, its impact can be profound, affecting various aspects of our lives.
(226) 641-6597 View (226) 641-6597
Photo of Jacqueline S Thibodeau, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
Jacqueline S Thibodeau
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6H
Not accepting new clients
Therapy can be a transformative & empowering experience. Developing awareness of yourself & your relationships can allow for enriching self growth. Through our work together we will identify resources, skills, & patterns in your life that are effective as well as areas where you may want to change or improve. We also look at & process any events or self-talk that may be keeping you stuck or causing distress. I will work collaboratively with you to identify what would be most helpful for your therapy, keeping in mind your unique personal & cultural experiences, while developing a trusting & respectful therapeutic relationship.
Therapy can be a transformative & empowering experience. Developing awareness of yourself & your relationships can allow for enriching self growth. Through our work together we will identify resources, skills, & patterns in your life that are effective as well as areas where you may want to change or improve. We also look at & process any events or self-talk that may be keeping you stuck or causing distress. I will work collaboratively with you to identify what would be most helpful for your therapy, keeping in mind your unique personal & cultural experiences, while developing a trusting & respectful therapeutic relationship.
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Photo of Amin Mohammadi, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Amin Mohammadi
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5G  (Online Only)
My areas of speciality include emotional disturbances, addictive behaviors, substance use, anxiety, depression, life transitions and coaching, interpersonal relationships, self-esteem, stress, trauma and spirituality. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, and families from a diverse range of cultural, ethnic, socio-economic and educational backgrounds. More specifically, my previous clinical experiences have afforded me the unique experiences of working with troubled teenagers suffering from addictive behaviors, refugees who have experienced significant trauma, couples pursuing international adoption.
My areas of speciality include emotional disturbances, addictive behaviors, substance use, anxiety, depression, life transitions and coaching, interpersonal relationships, self-esteem, stress, trauma and spirituality. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, and families from a diverse range of cultural, ethnic, socio-economic and educational backgrounds. More specifically, my previous clinical experiences have afforded me the unique experiences of working with troubled teenagers suffering from addictive behaviors, refugees who have experienced significant trauma, couples pursuing international adoption.
(647) 277-9587 View (647) 277-9587
Photo of Romana Hrivnakova, Registered Psychotherapist in Toronto, ON
Romana Hrivnakova
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6P  (Online Only)
I have over 14 years of experience in the field of addiction, trauma, and mental health.
Unresolved trauma, attachment injury, and old emotional wounds from the past create a fractured foundation. They affect our sense of self, make us feel empty inside, and lead us to believe that there is something terribly wrong with us. However, some symptoms that we experience as adults, such as excessive self-blame, addictive behaviours, anxiety, depression, a constant need to please others, sensitivity to rejection, and being easily overwhelmed, are caused by what failed to happen for us in childhood. Let me help you explore the part of you that was hurt and still carries the trauma and suffering.
I have over 14 years of experience in the field of addiction, trauma, and mental health.
Unresolved trauma, attachment injury, and old emotional wounds from the past create a fractured foundation. They affect our sense of self, make us feel empty inside, and lead us to believe that there is something terribly wrong with us. However, some symptoms that we experience as adults, such as excessive self-blame, addictive behaviours, anxiety, depression, a constant need to please others, sensitivity to rejection, and being easily overwhelmed, are caused by what failed to happen for us in childhood. Let me help you explore the part of you that was hurt and still carries the trauma and suffering.
(437) 800-1976 View (437) 800-1976
Photo of Ayesha Jawed, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Toronto, ON
Ayesha Jawed
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R  (Online Only)
Why does being me feel so difficult sometimes? If you’re asking this question, perhaps it’s because what used to help you cope with life is no longer working. Breaking generational patterns is hard, yet so rewarding! This is a unique journey for women of color, and sometimes we need to be held in ways only other women of color can understand. I can help you process intergenerational trauma and unlearn harmful patterns, while holding space for the impact of colonial oppression on your mental health.
Why does being me feel so difficult sometimes? If you’re asking this question, perhaps it’s because what used to help you cope with life is no longer working. Breaking generational patterns is hard, yet so rewarding! This is a unique journey for women of color, and sometimes we need to be held in ways only other women of color can understand. I can help you process intergenerational trauma and unlearn harmful patterns, while holding space for the impact of colonial oppression on your mental health.
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Photo of TM Addiction & Recovery Services, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor in Toronto, ON
TM Addiction & Recovery Services
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, CCAC, MATS, CACII
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M9A
Are you or a loved one struggling with substance use/abuse/dependence? Feeling stuck/trapped/hopeless? I can relate. With more than 20 years lived experience on the path of personal recovery, for over a decade I have been assisting individuals change the trajectory of their lives.
Are you or a loved one struggling with substance use/abuse/dependence? Feeling stuck/trapped/hopeless? I can relate. With more than 20 years lived experience on the path of personal recovery, for over a decade I have been assisting individuals change the trajectory of their lives.
(289) 275-4762 View (289) 275-4762
Photo of The Mindful Way, Registered Social Worker in Toronto, ON
The Mindful Way
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6G  (Online Only)
We all experience times in our life that lead us to feeling stressed, low, or anxious. Experiencing difficult emotions is part of the human experience, regardless of our circumstances. However, when our thoughts and feelings begins to impact our daily functioning, mood, and relationships, psychotherapy can help. We work with individuals using a collaborative, supportive, non-judgemental and evidence-based approach. The client is an active participant in the therapy process. We work with individuals of all ages. We are LGBTQ affirming, with experience working with clients of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
We all experience times in our life that lead us to feeling stressed, low, or anxious. Experiencing difficult emotions is part of the human experience, regardless of our circumstances. However, when our thoughts and feelings begins to impact our daily functioning, mood, and relationships, psychotherapy can help. We work with individuals using a collaborative, supportive, non-judgemental and evidence-based approach. The client is an active participant in the therapy process. We work with individuals of all ages. We are LGBTQ affirming, with experience working with clients of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
(647) 360-6457 View (647) 360-6457

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Addiction Counsellors

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.