Photo of Margaret Swift Thompson, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in North Carolina
Margaret Swift Thompson
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LADC, CTA, Coach
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mill Spring, NC 28756  (Online Only)
As a woman in long-term recovery who counseled people with addiction and their families at Hazelden Betty Ford for over 20 years, I know addiction intimately and professionally.
Do you love someone who is struggling with the disease of addiction? Do you feel alone, terrified, angry, or worried? Are you riding a roller coaster daily? Does the idea of setting boundaries baffle you? Is your mental energy depleted as you are preoccupied with your person 24/7? Do you feel lost on how to help your family heal? Does the term 'Detach With Love' strike terror in you? When I worked in the Family Program at the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, loved ones constantly shared a desire for someone to come alongside them on their journey. I do precisely this with my company, Embrace Family Recovery LLC.
As a woman in long-term recovery who counseled people with addiction and their families at Hazelden Betty Ford for over 20 years, I know addiction intimately and professionally.
Do you love someone who is struggling with the disease of addiction? Do you feel alone, terrified, angry, or worried? Are you riding a roller coaster daily? Does the idea of setting boundaries baffle you? Is your mental energy depleted as you are preoccupied with your person 24/7? Do you feel lost on how to help your family heal? Does the term 'Detach With Love' strike terror in you? When I worked in the Family Program at the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, loved ones constantly shared a desire for someone to come alongside them on their journey. I do precisely this with my company, Embrace Family Recovery LLC.
(828) 293-4509 View (828) 293-4509
Photo of Lifestyle Consultant Services, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina
Lifestyle Consultant Services
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LPC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
The mission of Lifestyle Consultant Services is to improve the quality of mental health and substance abuse services by reducing stigma and by protecting the rights of the individual who suffers from mental illness and/or substance abuse. By identifying the pain and suffering experienced by citizens in our community and addressing them with care, we aim to strengthen and promote health and well being. Suboxone is the combination of buprenorphine (partial opioid agonist) and naloxone (opioid antagonist - Narcan). The combination is either 2 mg/0.5 mg or 8 mg/2 mg. Suboxone is a sublingual film (it dissolves under the tongue).
The mission of Lifestyle Consultant Services is to improve the quality of mental health and substance abuse services by reducing stigma and by protecting the rights of the individual who suffers from mental illness and/or substance abuse. By identifying the pain and suffering experienced by citizens in our community and addressing them with care, we aim to strengthen and promote health and well being. Suboxone is the combination of buprenorphine (partial opioid agonist) and naloxone (opioid antagonist - Narcan). The combination is either 2 mg/0.5 mg or 8 mg/2 mg. Suboxone is a sublingual film (it dissolves under the tongue).
(919) 800-0881 View (919) 800-0881
Photo of Mat Sandifer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Mat Sandifer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
I have been a therapist and consultant for 32 years, supporting those that are looking for solutions to life's difficulties. Whether it is relationships, internal struggles, career guidance, or family conflicts, I love using evidence-based tools to support the discovery of your solutions. Having worked in the substance use disorder and mental health profession and at the executive level of larger organizations, I have years of practice allowing me to be creative and individualized in supporting your needs.
I have been a therapist and consultant for 32 years, supporting those that are looking for solutions to life's difficulties. Whether it is relationships, internal struggles, career guidance, or family conflicts, I love using evidence-based tools to support the discovery of your solutions. Having worked in the substance use disorder and mental health profession and at the executive level of larger organizations, I have years of practice allowing me to be creative and individualized in supporting your needs.
(336) 939-0230 View (336) 939-0230
Photo of Miriah Feehery, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
Miriah Feehery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, EMDR
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I treat: Adults, pre-adolescents and adolescents, Trauma, substance abuse, process addictions, family dynamics, sexuality, sexual abuse, LGBTQ specific issues, relationship and attachment issues, self-harm, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, depression, anxiety, anger, ADHD, adoption issues, domestic violence, and bipolar disorder.
Wholeness leads to healing. I guide my clients to accept all parts of themselves and find balance in their lives. I entered the field of counseling with a passion for treating trauma (big T and little t trauma). Along the way I gathered some exceptional tools for doing so, including EMDR and a somatic approach to psychotherapy. Not so far removed from trauma, I have also developed a specialty in treating addiction of all kinds. I have seen the power of emotional healing to transform people's lives in ways they always wanted but didn't know how. I am here to help whenever the client is ready to do that brave and powerful work.
I treat: Adults, pre-adolescents and adolescents, Trauma, substance abuse, process addictions, family dynamics, sexuality, sexual abuse, LGBTQ specific issues, relationship and attachment issues, self-harm, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, depression, anxiety, anger, ADHD, adoption issues, domestic violence, and bipolar disorder.
Wholeness leads to healing. I guide my clients to accept all parts of themselves and find balance in their lives. I entered the field of counseling with a passion for treating trauma (big T and little t trauma). Along the way I gathered some exceptional tools for doing so, including EMDR and a somatic approach to psychotherapy. Not so far removed from trauma, I have also developed a specialty in treating addiction of all kinds. I have seen the power of emotional healing to transform people's lives in ways they always wanted but didn't know how. I am here to help whenever the client is ready to do that brave and powerful work.
(828) 882-2438 View (828) 882-2438
Photo of Deborah B. Burnette, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
Deborah B. Burnette
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEd, LPC, LCAS, NCAC II, MAC
Verified Verified
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
Frequently we hear how many people in today’s society find themselves feeling anxious, depressed, stressed and overwhelmed by life circumstances and/or addiction disorders. My counseling practice provides you a confidential, supportive, and non-judgmental environment to talk about your concerns, problems, and emotional pain. I listen with compassion and together we develop a plan to help you gain insight into your issues and to learn effective coping skills. I believe in and am focused on the hope for change and improved quality of life.
Frequently we hear how many people in today’s society find themselves feeling anxious, depressed, stressed and overwhelmed by life circumstances and/or addiction disorders. My counseling practice provides you a confidential, supportive, and non-judgmental environment to talk about your concerns, problems, and emotional pain. I listen with compassion and together we develop a plan to help you gain insight into your issues and to learn effective coping skills. I believe in and am focused on the hope for change and improved quality of life.
(252) 368-4577 View (252) 368-4577
Photo of Tab Ballis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Tab Ballis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
As a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, I have dedicated my career to the development of effective interventions for substance and behavioral dependencies.
My approach to the collaborative effort of psychotherapy is influenced by structural/strategic family systems theory, informing the process of joining with clients to clarify their roles in relationship, family, and community. Creative engagement in experiential learning assists individuals, couples, and families in gaining a fresh perspective through focused work that brings lasting results. I endeavor, in every client relationship, to de-mystify the daunting prospect of change, empowering personal choice in difficult circumstances through guided self-exploration.
As a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, I have dedicated my career to the development of effective interventions for substance and behavioral dependencies.
My approach to the collaborative effort of psychotherapy is influenced by structural/strategic family systems theory, informing the process of joining with clients to clarify their roles in relationship, family, and community. Creative engagement in experiential learning assists individuals, couples, and families in gaining a fresh perspective through focused work that brings lasting results. I endeavor, in every client relationship, to de-mystify the daunting prospect of change, empowering personal choice in difficult circumstances through guided self-exploration.
(910) 684-5005 View (910) 684-5005
Photo of Integrated Behavioral Healthcare Services, PA, Psychological Associate in North Carolina
Integrated Behavioral Healthcare Services, PA
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, LCAS, CCSOTS
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28303
Our agency is committed to helping individuals and families affected by substance abuse and mental health problems achieve their full potential to live, work and grow in their community and have higher quality of life.
Our agency is committed to helping individuals and families affected by substance abuse and mental health problems achieve their full potential to live, work and grow in their community and have higher quality of life.
(910) 390-6573 View (910) 390-6573
Photo of Jillian Williamson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Jillian Williamson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 18 years of experience within the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings including community mental centers, public health, psychiatric units, and partial hospitalization programs. My areas of expertise include stress/anxiety, depression, grief and loss, addiction, health issues, family/relationship issues, and personal growth. I utilize therapeutic approaches that explore each individual's psychological and social needs. It's my goal to assist my clients in the healing process, build self-worth, improve communication in their relationships, and reach their goals.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 18 years of experience within the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings including community mental centers, public health, psychiatric units, and partial hospitalization programs. My areas of expertise include stress/anxiety, depression, grief and loss, addiction, health issues, family/relationship issues, and personal growth. I utilize therapeutic approaches that explore each individual's psychological and social needs. It's my goal to assist my clients in the healing process, build self-worth, improve communication in their relationships, and reach their goals.
(919) 823-3605 View (919) 823-3605
Photo of Stephen McAlister, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina
Stephen McAlister
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Mooresville, NC 28117  (Online Only)
I am an advocate for empowering secret-holders to let go of their burdens to create new freedom. Whether it's dealing with the shame of substance abuse issues, fear surrounding sexual identity concerns, underlying dread from childhood traumas, or ongoing guilt of "forgotten crimes" from the past. I offer a safe space to put your story to rest. Working together, we create a new story that gives you authenticity, community, and possibility.
I am an advocate for empowering secret-holders to let go of their burdens to create new freedom. Whether it's dealing with the shame of substance abuse issues, fear surrounding sexual identity concerns, underlying dread from childhood traumas, or ongoing guilt of "forgotten crimes" from the past. I offer a safe space to put your story to rest. Working together, we create a new story that gives you authenticity, community, and possibility.
(828) 759-5160 View (828) 759-5160
Photo of Amanda Beason, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in North Carolina
Amanda Beason
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHC-A, LCAS, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I work with anxiety, depression, (alcohol, drug, sex, porn, gambling, other processing) addiction, relationship or sex issues, grief, self-image and self-esteem, and many other troubles we come across in life.
Trained in couples counseling, addictions counseling, sex therapy, EFT, EMDR, and attachment-based modalities. Life is hard. It's beautiful, it's devastating, it's complicated. And it does not have to be lived alone. It is my privilege and purpose in life to walk alongside you as you seek your own fulfillment, direction, and answers. Our therapeutic relationship will be caring, kind and full of curiosity.
I work with anxiety, depression, (alcohol, drug, sex, porn, gambling, other processing) addiction, relationship or sex issues, grief, self-image and self-esteem, and many other troubles we come across in life.
Trained in couples counseling, addictions counseling, sex therapy, EFT, EMDR, and attachment-based modalities. Life is hard. It's beautiful, it's devastating, it's complicated. And it does not have to be lived alone. It is my privilege and purpose in life to walk alongside you as you seek your own fulfillment, direction, and answers. Our therapeutic relationship will be caring, kind and full of curiosity.
(919) 820-8196 View (919) 820-8196
Photo of GoldStar Counseling and Wellness Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
GoldStar Counseling and Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
GoldStar Counseling & Wellness Center provides client-centered, therapeutic services for individuals seeking constructive solutions to regain daily, emotional stability. Key areas of focus are: sexual, emotional and physical abuse, childhood/adult trauma, depression, grief and loss, anxiety, anger management, relational problems, PTSD in addition to substance abuse and other addictions. GoldStar Counseling & Wellness Center prides itself in providing a safe, welcoming environment for clients to engage in non-judgmental conversations under the trusted guidance of our licensed therapists. Clients have the benefit of exploring both our coaching and counseling services to ensure the most effective results. Ultimately, we listen to and assess each client’s needs based on their unique set of experiences and desired goals, to provide them with the most appropriate pathway for progress. Located in the Piedmont Triad area of North Carolina, GoldStar Counseling & Wellness Center is proud to serve clients in the Greensboro, High Point, Winston Salem, Charlotte, RTP, and surrounding areas.
GoldStar Counseling & Wellness Center provides client-centered, therapeutic services for individuals seeking constructive solutions to regain daily, emotional stability. Key areas of focus are: sexual, emotional and physical abuse, childhood/adult trauma, depression, grief and loss, anxiety, anger management, relational problems, PTSD in addition to substance abuse and other addictions. GoldStar Counseling & Wellness Center prides itself in providing a safe, welcoming environment for clients to engage in non-judgmental conversations under the trusted guidance of our licensed therapists. Clients have the benefit of exploring both our coaching and counseling services to ensure the most effective results. Ultimately, we listen to and assess each client’s needs based on their unique set of experiences and desired goals, to provide them with the most appropriate pathway for progress. Located in the Piedmont Triad area of North Carolina, GoldStar Counseling & Wellness Center is proud to serve clients in the Greensboro, High Point, Winston Salem, Charlotte, RTP, and surrounding areas.
(336) 948-8879 View (336) 948-8879
Photo of Danielle Minges, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina
Danielle Minges
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
Struggling with sex? Fighting with your partner? Hoping to heal from infidelity? Feeling broken or damaged from trauma? Difficulty with substance recovery? I see individuals and couples who are struggling with sex/intimacy, addiction, or trauma. I might be a good fit for you if: Sex is painful, frustrating or boring. You're tired of having the same argument with your partner. You want to heal from an affair. You're ready for recovery but need help with accountability. Maybe you're exploring parts of your sexual identity for the first time, or want to learn something new. You’re ready to heal from frustration, shame, or hopelessness.
Struggling with sex? Fighting with your partner? Hoping to heal from infidelity? Feeling broken or damaged from trauma? Difficulty with substance recovery? I see individuals and couples who are struggling with sex/intimacy, addiction, or trauma. I might be a good fit for you if: Sex is painful, frustrating or boring. You're tired of having the same argument with your partner. You want to heal from an affair. You're ready for recovery but need help with accountability. Maybe you're exploring parts of your sexual identity for the first time, or want to learn something new. You’re ready to heal from frustration, shame, or hopelessness.
(984) 265-8838 View (984) 265-8838
Photo of Marecius Samuel, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
Marecius Samuel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27606
Email is the best way to contact me) Marecius Samuel is the owner and sole therapist of Breaking Barriers Wellness and Counseling. Marecius (pronounced Ma-re-kus) has many years of counseling experience and has worked with diverse populations. Marecius has worked with children, adolescents, and adults with various mental, behavioral, and substance abuse related diagnoses. Marecius has provided therapy within inpatient psychiatric hospital settings and has previous work experience on Community Support Teams, Intensive In-Home, Family-Centered Treatment and Outpatient Therapy.
Email is the best way to contact me) Marecius Samuel is the owner and sole therapist of Breaking Barriers Wellness and Counseling. Marecius (pronounced Ma-re-kus) has many years of counseling experience and has worked with diverse populations. Marecius has worked with children, adolescents, and adults with various mental, behavioral, and substance abuse related diagnoses. Marecius has provided therapy within inpatient psychiatric hospital settings and has previous work experience on Community Support Teams, Intensive In-Home, Family-Centered Treatment and Outpatient Therapy.
(984) 203-7477 View (984) 203-7477
Photo of Kris Kawulok, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina
Kris Kawulok
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a broad background to help you face relational, occupational, sex addiction and clinical challenges.
Seeking support for life's difficulties can be daunting. Partnering with others as they walk through these difficulties is one of my lifelong passions. Let's begin to investigate your own particular story and see how it can be rewritten. The most important benchmark for each session is establishing an environment of trust and openness. From there, we can work to break through barriers. My goal is to support, educate, counsel and guide you through it all.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a broad background to help you face relational, occupational, sex addiction and clinical challenges.
Seeking support for life's difficulties can be daunting. Partnering with others as they walk through these difficulties is one of my lifelong passions. Let's begin to investigate your own particular story and see how it can be rewritten. The most important benchmark for each session is establishing an environment of trust and openness. From there, we can work to break through barriers. My goal is to support, educate, counsel and guide you through it all.
(704) 457-7724 View (704) 457-7724
Photo of Insight Family Center, LLC in North Carolina
Insight Family Center, LLC
MA, LPC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
At Insight Family Center, LLC we provide premium psychiatry,mental health and substance abuse services. Our priority is to provide our clients with techniques that will assist them in obtaining their desired outcomes to reach their personal goals.
At Insight Family Center, LLC we provide premium psychiatry,mental health and substance abuse services. Our priority is to provide our clients with techniques that will assist them in obtaining their desired outcomes to reach their personal goals.
(919) 626-3979 View (919) 626-3979
Photo of Jessica Jeremiah, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Jessica Jeremiah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Mebane, NC 27302
Every person I serve has a unique story. While some clients experience challenges in just one area, most experience difficulty multiple areas (mental health, trauma, loss, addiction), creating a complex, vicious cycle if not all parts are addressed. The circumstances that bring someone to therapy do not come in 'neat little packages.' I enjoy sorting out the pieces with each client, getting to the root of the issue, and offering a combination of evidence-based therapeutic interventions that help clients finally begin to experience relief, and start living a happier, more fulfilled life.
Every person I serve has a unique story. While some clients experience challenges in just one area, most experience difficulty multiple areas (mental health, trauma, loss, addiction), creating a complex, vicious cycle if not all parts are addressed. The circumstances that bring someone to therapy do not come in 'neat little packages.' I enjoy sorting out the pieces with each client, getting to the root of the issue, and offering a combination of evidence-based therapeutic interventions that help clients finally begin to experience relief, and start living a happier, more fulfilled life.
(919) 585-5163 View (919) 585-5163
Photo of Adrianne Robinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Adrianne Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
I am a solution-focused therapist, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist and a Registered Yoga Teacher offering therapy and coaching for individuals and families in a warm and welcoming environment. I specialize in anxiety disorders, mindfulness, trauma, PTSD, codependency, adult children of alcoholic issues, life coaching and addiction recovery with clients just like you throughout Raleigh and Wake County.
I am a solution-focused therapist, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist and a Registered Yoga Teacher offering therapy and coaching for individuals and families in a warm and welcoming environment. I specialize in anxiety disorders, mindfulness, trauma, PTSD, codependency, adult children of alcoholic issues, life coaching and addiction recovery with clients just like you throughout Raleigh and Wake County.
(919) 344-0972 View (919) 344-0972
Photo of Advene Health Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Advene Health Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28270
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, addiction, grief and loss, living with chronic medical conditions, self-esteem issues, and relationship and career issues, among others.
My idea as a psychotherapist is to provide safe, comfortable & judgment-free environment for clients to work through issues. My role as a psychotherapist is to respect the goals that my clients come in with, and support the process of working toward these goals. I believe Psychotherapy can enhance one's self-awareness and the ability to recognize in one's own self-defeating and self-sabotaging patterns, and to change these patterns.
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, addiction, grief and loss, living with chronic medical conditions, self-esteem issues, and relationship and career issues, among others.
My idea as a psychotherapist is to provide safe, comfortable & judgment-free environment for clients to work through issues. My role as a psychotherapist is to respect the goals that my clients come in with, and support the process of working toward these goals. I believe Psychotherapy can enhance one's self-awareness and the ability to recognize in one's own self-defeating and self-sabotaging patterns, and to change these patterns.
(980) 247-4144 View (980) 247-4144
Photo of Matt Kreiner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Matt Kreiner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
I am a therapist that views the client/therapist dynamic as a partnership. I take a strengths-based approach to treatment and draw on concepts from my training in behavioral change as well as insight-building techniques including CBT, EMDR, psychoanalysis, attachment theory, EFT, and the Gottman Methods. I specialize in treating individuals, couples, and parents dealing with anxiety, relationship, addiction issues, and trauma. I also have advanced training in serving the LGBTQ+ communities, as well as sex addicts and partners of sex addicts. I am a kink-aware therapist and am comfortable working with polyamorous relationships.
I am a therapist that views the client/therapist dynamic as a partnership. I take a strengths-based approach to treatment and draw on concepts from my training in behavioral change as well as insight-building techniques including CBT, EMDR, psychoanalysis, attachment theory, EFT, and the Gottman Methods. I specialize in treating individuals, couples, and parents dealing with anxiety, relationship, addiction issues, and trauma. I also have advanced training in serving the LGBTQ+ communities, as well as sex addicts and partners of sex addicts. I am a kink-aware therapist and am comfortable working with polyamorous relationships.
(919) 935-0033 View (919) 935-0033
Photo of Peter Charles Soule, Counselor in North Carolina
Peter Charles Soule
Counselor, MEd,, LCAS
Not Verified Not Verified
Durham, NC 27701
Accepting New Patients I am a board certified licensed clinical addiction specialist. I provide counseling, consultation and evaluation for adults with mental health concerns and/or substances abuse issues. I work in a group practice with a psychiatrist who provides medication management. I have extensive experience treating patients who struggle with alcohol, drug abuse, chronic relapse, as well as life problems created by these issues. I strive to help my patients obtain optimal mental health through support, education and collaboration. I provide a warm approach which encourages autonomy, growth and healing.
Accepting New Patients I am a board certified licensed clinical addiction specialist. I provide counseling, consultation and evaluation for adults with mental health concerns and/or substances abuse issues. I work in a group practice with a psychiatrist who provides medication management. I have extensive experience treating patients who struggle with alcohol, drug abuse, chronic relapse, as well as life problems created by these issues. I strive to help my patients obtain optimal mental health through support, education and collaboration. I provide a warm approach which encourages autonomy, growth and healing.
(919) 648-2839 View (919) 648-2839

See more therapy options for North Carolina

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.