Addiction Counselling in Adelaide, SA

Photo of Bronte Galek - Anahata counselling, MC, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Anahata counselling
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000  (Online Only)
I can support you with a range of issues such as Addiction/ substance dependence of yourself or loved one, Anger, Anxiety, Cultural issues, Depression, Expat related concerns, Family/parenting, Grief and loss, Life transitions, Low self-esteem, Mental health concerns, Relational stressors, Stress and Trauma.
I am an experienced psychotherapist and counsellor specialising in addiction and trauma. With a strong person-centered and holistic approach, I combine various therapeutic techniques to encourage one’s healing and understanding of self. I aim to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore all facets of themselves, supporting them to find peace and stability amidst life’s challenges. I can work with you on a range of life's issues and I am deeply committed to creating safety and care within the therapeutic relationship. There is no need to struggle alone.
I can support you with a range of issues such as Addiction/ substance dependence of yourself or loved one, Anger, Anxiety, Cultural issues, Depression, Expat related concerns, Family/parenting, Grief and loss, Life transitions, Low self-esteem, Mental health concerns, Relational stressors, Stress and Trauma.
I am an experienced psychotherapist and counsellor specialising in addiction and trauma. With a strong person-centered and holistic approach, I combine various therapeutic techniques to encourage one’s healing and understanding of self. I aim to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore all facets of themselves, supporting them to find peace and stability amidst life’s challenges. I can work with you on a range of life's issues and I am deeply committed to creating safety and care within the therapeutic relationship. There is no need to struggle alone.
(08) 7078 8233 View (08) 7078 8233
Photo of Louise Flaherty, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Louise Flaherty
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
Extensive experience in Addiction, Domestic Violence, Gottman Couples Therapy, Life Coaching, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy.
I work holstically with adults, couples, families & teens who want understand how they can make change in their lives. I can be a neutral person to assist with skills to change or cope better with the situation. I love working with on life direction - Relationship struggles - Addiction - grief & loss - NDIS support - Nature therapy
Extensive experience in Addiction, Domestic Violence, Gottman Couples Therapy, Life Coaching, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy.
I work holstically with adults, couples, families & teens who want understand how they can make change in their lives. I can be a neutral person to assist with skills to change or cope better with the situation. I love working with on life direction - Relationship struggles - Addiction - grief & loss - NDIS support - Nature therapy
(08) 7184 0782 View (08) 7184 0782
Photo of johanna Waugh - Stickbymecounselling / Psychosexual therapist , MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Stickbymecounselling / Psychosexual therapist
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Adelaide, SA 5000
Johanna focuses on working with singles, couples, and families. She also works with men's sexual health difficulties, delayed ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, and out-of-control sexual behaviours like porn addiction in addition to family therapy, fertility challenges, and low libido, women's sexual health issues, including preconceptions and conception, hypoactive sexual desire disorder .Johanna is sex worker friendly. Johanna is capable of working with poly/open partnerships and is LGBTQ, kink, and fetish friendly. Johanna also works with clients of the NDIS.
Johanna focuses on working with singles, couples, and families. She also works with men's sexual health difficulties, delayed ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, and out-of-control sexual behaviours like porn addiction in addition to family therapy, fertility challenges, and low libido, women's sexual health issues, including preconceptions and conception, hypoactive sexual desire disorder .Johanna is sex worker friendly. Johanna is capable of working with poly/open partnerships and is LGBTQ, kink, and fetish friendly. Johanna also works with clients of the NDIS.
(02) 9100 0121 View (02) 9100 0121
Photo of Tammy Maskill, Counsellor
Tammy Maskill
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000  (Online Only)
I work primarily with trauma, alcohol and other drug use and behavioural addictions. I work with you to shed the layers of your trauma, heal unresolved wounds, and create a life that you don’t need to numb yourself to and escape from. With lived experience of trauma and substance addiction, I understand how trauma, especially from our childhood, can impact every aspect of our lives. And, how we can easily find ourselves trying to cope with behaviours that become more and more problematic.
I work primarily with trauma, alcohol and other drug use and behavioural addictions. I work with you to shed the layers of your trauma, heal unresolved wounds, and create a life that you don’t need to numb yourself to and escape from. With lived experience of trauma and substance addiction, I understand how trauma, especially from our childhood, can impact every aspect of our lives. And, how we can easily find ourselves trying to cope with behaviours that become more and more problematic.
(03) 9118 9023 View (03) 9118 9023
Photo of Francesca Palazzolo, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Francesca Palazzolo
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Adelaide, SA 5000  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with any addictive behaviours, including a porn or sex addiction, (or have concerns about a partner/family member) please reach out for non-judgemental support.
I am a counsellor & psychotherapist working in the existential humanist tradition. I work with all sorts of issues including mental health, addictive behaviours and relationship issues to name a few. I am registered with PACFA (Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation Australia) which is the national peak body for counsellors and psychotherapists in Australia and have worked in youth mental health, alcohol and other drugs counselling and trauma informed counselling. If you are experiencing issues with any emotional concerns, anxiety, substance use, addiction, including behavioural addictions, please do not hesitate to reach out.
If you are struggling with any addictive behaviours, including a porn or sex addiction, (or have concerns about a partner/family member) please reach out for non-judgemental support.
I am a counsellor & psychotherapist working in the existential humanist tradition. I work with all sorts of issues including mental health, addictive behaviours and relationship issues to name a few. I am registered with PACFA (Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation Australia) which is the national peak body for counsellors and psychotherapists in Australia and have worked in youth mental health, alcohol and other drugs counselling and trauma informed counselling. If you are experiencing issues with any emotional concerns, anxiety, substance use, addiction, including behavioural addictions, please do not hesitate to reach out.
(03) 6411 0202 View (03) 6411 0202
Photo of Dr Astrid Staley - Online Trauma Brainspotting Counsellor, ACA-L3, Counsellor
Online Trauma Brainspotting Counsellor
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Adelaide, SA 5000  (Online Only)
Brainspotting liberates brains from irrational fears, addiction, PTSD, OCD eating disorders, anxiety, & resolves trauma.
Dr Astrid Staley has 15+ years of experience using talk therapies, Neuropsychotherapy & Brainspotting, a cutting-edge therapy to move people toward optimal functioning. Her experience extends to Christian & non-Christian contexts. Choose a preferred style to support a holistic approach to wellbeing in body, mind, spirit. Counselling/Coaching/ Supervision packages. Specialised ages 16+ ADHD Coaching/ Counselling support & Eating Disorder Recovery Coaching/Counselling support. Neuro Change Personal Development Coaching/Counselling package. Supporting clients 16+ years.
Brainspotting liberates brains from irrational fears, addiction, PTSD, OCD eating disorders, anxiety, & resolves trauma.
Dr Astrid Staley has 15+ years of experience using talk therapies, Neuropsychotherapy & Brainspotting, a cutting-edge therapy to move people toward optimal functioning. Her experience extends to Christian & non-Christian contexts. Choose a preferred style to support a holistic approach to wellbeing in body, mind, spirit. Counselling/Coaching/ Supervision packages. Specialised ages 16+ ADHD Coaching/ Counselling support & Eating Disorder Recovery Coaching/Counselling support. Neuro Change Personal Development Coaching/Counselling package. Supporting clients 16+ years.
(03) 5615 6373 View (03) 5615 6373
Photo of Brad Middleton, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Brad Middleton
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Adelaide, SA 5000
As a trained Sex Addiction Therapist, I understand the processes of addiction and the cycle of shame and isolation.
While it's natural to engage in pleasurable activities & behaviours, when that engagement becomes compulsive, overwhelming, and out-of-control, the negative consequences can become destructive & unmanageable, especially when addicted to Sex & Porn. We sometimes adopt these behaviours as a means of gaining momentary relief from any pain, anxiety, or trauma that exists in our lives, but regularly feel intense shame and despair after acting out sexually. Then, shame & isolation serve to maintain the addictive cycle, as the problem becomes more complex & often impacts our intimate partner. Don't despair: Help and recovery is available!
As a trained Sex Addiction Therapist, I understand the processes of addiction and the cycle of shame and isolation.
While it's natural to engage in pleasurable activities & behaviours, when that engagement becomes compulsive, overwhelming, and out-of-control, the negative consequences can become destructive & unmanageable, especially when addicted to Sex & Porn. We sometimes adopt these behaviours as a means of gaining momentary relief from any pain, anxiety, or trauma that exists in our lives, but regularly feel intense shame and despair after acting out sexually. Then, shame & isolation serve to maintain the addictive cycle, as the problem becomes more complex & often impacts our intimate partner. Don't despair: Help and recovery is available!
(08) 6118 7606 View (08) 6118 7606
Photo of Emma Mansell, PsychD, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Emma Mansell
Counsellor, PsychD, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
Hi, I’m Emma. I’m a therapist supporting people who struggle with mental health/addiction. My areas of specialist experience are trauma, anxiety, depression and substance misuse. I support people who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, grief or loss and addiction. I provide a person centred approach to therapy, which looks at individuals as a whole person. I am a narrative therapist and will look at your story and the patterns of behaviour. My style is relaxed and gentle to help guide you through whatever brings you to therapy.
Hi, I’m Emma. I’m a therapist supporting people who struggle with mental health/addiction. My areas of specialist experience are trauma, anxiety, depression and substance misuse. I support people who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, grief or loss and addiction. I provide a person centred approach to therapy, which looks at individuals as a whole person. I am a narrative therapist and will look at your story and the patterns of behaviour. My style is relaxed and gentle to help guide you through whatever brings you to therapy.
(02) 8403 2271 View (02) 8403 2271
Photo of Jana Maddock - Jana Maddock Counselling, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Jana Maddock Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000  (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Jana, a registered Psychotherapist/Counsellor with a B.Couns. and M.A.C.A. level 4 certification. My practice focuses on supporting young adults, adults, and couples, offering support for various issues including Trauma Counselling, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Abuse, Self Harm and Relationship issues.
Hi there, I'm Jana, a registered Psychotherapist/Counsellor with a B.Couns. and M.A.C.A. level 4 certification. My practice focuses on supporting young adults, adults, and couples, offering support for various issues including Trauma Counselling, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Abuse, Self Harm and Relationship issues.
(07) 5241 1842 View (07) 5241 1842
Photo of Ingrid Glanowski - Emotional Growth, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Ingrid Glanowski - Emotional Growth
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
She works with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, stress, childhood trauma, addiction, self-esteem and grief.
Ingrid is registered psychologist who provides in person therapy to clients in Melbourne and online therapy to clients Australia wide via Telehealth. In therapy, the environment Ingrid creates is compassionate, animated and genuine. She enjoys building long-lasting and meaningful connections with clients, knowing that this can be a catalyst for a successful experience in therapy. Ingrid is specifically interested in clients who present with developmental/relational-trauma and utilises her knowledge of attachment theory and family systems to help clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves.
She works with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, stress, childhood trauma, addiction, self-esteem and grief.
Ingrid is registered psychologist who provides in person therapy to clients in Melbourne and online therapy to clients Australia wide via Telehealth. In therapy, the environment Ingrid creates is compassionate, animated and genuine. She enjoys building long-lasting and meaningful connections with clients, knowing that this can be a catalyst for a successful experience in therapy. Ingrid is specifically interested in clients who present with developmental/relational-trauma and utilises her knowledge of attachment theory and family systems to help clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves.
(03) 9994 1814 View (03) 9994 1814
Photo of Elmien Britz, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elmien Britz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
My specialist understanding of complex problems such as addiction management, compulsive disorders and mood disorders give me a firm therapeutic framework to assist clients.
Clients who engage with me are committed to personal growth and are seeking an individual who can often just be a witness to their reality. Personal growth requires courage, courage to be honest and courage to admit that there are certain components in our lives we are unable to change. I have been privileged to be part of the self-actualization journey of numerous individuals over the years and I have come to understand that we all have the ability to evolve. Therapy is not for the faint hearted yet it is one of the best investments in yourself you will ever make.
My specialist understanding of complex problems such as addiction management, compulsive disorders and mood disorders give me a firm therapeutic framework to assist clients.
Clients who engage with me are committed to personal growth and are seeking an individual who can often just be a witness to their reality. Personal growth requires courage, courage to be honest and courage to admit that there are certain components in our lives we are unable to change. I have been privileged to be part of the self-actualization journey of numerous individuals over the years and I have come to understand that we all have the ability to evolve. Therapy is not for the faint hearted yet it is one of the best investments in yourself you will ever make.
(08) 7228 0326 View (08) 7228 0326
Photo of Veronica A Collins, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Veronica A Collins
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
I offer holistic psychotherapy and counselling to address issues of inner and outer conflict, depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, low confidence, grief and loss. By facilitating the expanding of self-awareness there's growth in health and wholeness; becoming more authentic, purposeful & integrated; and creating better harmony within relationships. Offering parent/child relationship work.
I offer holistic psychotherapy and counselling to address issues of inner and outer conflict, depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, low confidence, grief and loss. By facilitating the expanding of self-awareness there's growth in health and wholeness; becoming more authentic, purposeful & integrated; and creating better harmony within relationships. Offering parent/child relationship work.
(03) 4410 8583 View (03) 4410 8583
Photo of Mike Daniel Carroll - Mike Carroll, MC Counselling, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Mike Carroll, MC Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
I want to help you overcome the current challenges you are facing. You may be new to counselling and I want to make this a positive experience for you. I am a professional counsellor with lived experience of addiction and mental illness and I bring this knowledge to help you. Additionally, post pandemic, life is very different than it was four years ago and this maybe the reason you are seeking help. You may be unsure of why it is you are feeling the way you do and would like someone to talk to.
I want to help you overcome the current challenges you are facing. You may be new to counselling and I want to make this a positive experience for you. I am a professional counsellor with lived experience of addiction and mental illness and I bring this knowledge to help you. Additionally, post pandemic, life is very different than it was four years ago and this maybe the reason you are seeking help. You may be unsure of why it is you are feeling the way you do and would like someone to talk to.
(03) 6419 9437 View (03) 6419 9437
Photo of Rhiannon Flavel, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Rhiannon Flavel
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
I work with adults & adolescents experiencing complex trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, anger, life transitions, grief & loss, overwhelm & stress, LGBTQIA+ issues, & relational challenges between people who long to connect more fully.
My approach as a psychotherapist is holistic, non-judgemental, trauma informed & deeply relational. I have worked in various roles including mental health counselling, outdoor education teaching, adventure therapy, wilderness rites of passage, & group facilitation for over a decade, supporting adults, young people & families. I bring these diverse experiences into my therapeutic practice to offer a specialised approach to this transformational work.
I work with adults & adolescents experiencing complex trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, anger, life transitions, grief & loss, overwhelm & stress, LGBTQIA+ issues, & relational challenges between people who long to connect more fully.
My approach as a psychotherapist is holistic, non-judgemental, trauma informed & deeply relational. I have worked in various roles including mental health counselling, outdoor education teaching, adventure therapy, wilderness rites of passage, & group facilitation for over a decade, supporting adults, young people & families. I bring these diverse experiences into my therapeutic practice to offer a specialised approach to this transformational work.
(02) 5016 7519 View (02) 5016 7519
Shagoon Maurya
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
I support individuals who are struggling with a range of life challenges. This may be a situational issue or more ongoing challenges in life where you have notice repeated patterns. This could be things like struggling with mental health, emotional overwhelm, stress, relational issues or breakdown, life transition, work or study pressure, substance misuse, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues and childhood trauma. I also support adults experiencing relationship/marriage and family problems. It is not uncommon to feel apprehensive about engaging in therapy even though it can be very beneficial in many ways.
I support individuals who are struggling with a range of life challenges. This may be a situational issue or more ongoing challenges in life where you have notice repeated patterns. This could be things like struggling with mental health, emotional overwhelm, stress, relational issues or breakdown, life transition, work or study pressure, substance misuse, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues and childhood trauma. I also support adults experiencing relationship/marriage and family problems. It is not uncommon to feel apprehensive about engaging in therapy even though it can be very beneficial in many ways.
(08) 7079 4465 View (08) 7079 4465
Photo of Fiona Morrison, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Fiona Morrison
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
I utilise an eclectic, personalised, and compassionate approach to treatment and assessment. I treat a wide range of mental health problems, such as mood disorders, anxiety, trauma (including PTSD and CPTSD), personality disorders, psychosis, addictions and substance use disorders, OCD, and issues related to sleep and eating. I offer neurodiversity-affirming treatment and assessments to adults presenting with symptoms of ADHD and Autism-spectrum disorder. I also offer forensic treatment and psycholegal assessment for civil and criminal issues (including violence, sexual offending, general offending, fire-setting, and stalking)
I utilise an eclectic, personalised, and compassionate approach to treatment and assessment. I treat a wide range of mental health problems, such as mood disorders, anxiety, trauma (including PTSD and CPTSD), personality disorders, psychosis, addictions and substance use disorders, OCD, and issues related to sleep and eating. I offer neurodiversity-affirming treatment and assessments to adults presenting with symptoms of ADHD and Autism-spectrum disorder. I also offer forensic treatment and psycholegal assessment for civil and criminal issues (including violence, sexual offending, general offending, fire-setting, and stalking)
(08) 7078 7004 View (08) 7078 7004
Photo of Marina Bills, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Marina Bills
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
Marina has experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, relationship and interpersonal problems, adjustment issues, low self-esteem, grief and loss issues, sleep problems, eating disorders, issues relating to trauma, self harm and substance use and uses a variety of evidence-based approaches to assist her in tailoring treatments.
Marina is a warm and compassionate Psychologist who has worked in public and community health settings as well as in the private sector for the past 10 years. Marina has wide experience working with adolescents and adults and is passionate about helping people with mood, worry and distress problems, stemming from the past or more recent experiences. Marina focuses on building a therapeutic relationship based on empathy, curiosity, openness, kindness and respect to help understand her client’s needs and work towards their goals. Marina believes in recognising individual’s strengths to help overcome challenges and bring about change
Marina has experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, relationship and interpersonal problems, adjustment issues, low self-esteem, grief and loss issues, sleep problems, eating disorders, issues relating to trauma, self harm and substance use and uses a variety of evidence-based approaches to assist her in tailoring treatments.
Marina is a warm and compassionate Psychologist who has worked in public and community health settings as well as in the private sector for the past 10 years. Marina has wide experience working with adolescents and adults and is passionate about helping people with mood, worry and distress problems, stemming from the past or more recent experiences. Marina focuses on building a therapeutic relationship based on empathy, curiosity, openness, kindness and respect to help understand her client’s needs and work towards their goals. Marina believes in recognising individual’s strengths to help overcome challenges and bring about change
(08) 7008 7209 View (08) 7008 7209
Photo of Phillip Samuel: Living Free Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Phillip Samuel: Living Free Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Adelaide, SA 5000  (Online Only)
I completed an initial degree in disability studies, then specialised in addiction.
HAVE Availability & NOW accepting NEW Clients! "I believe in choice & empowerment, and value respect, honesty, & integrity". "I love the collaborative process of working through life events. It is a pleasure and privilege to experience the emotional journey with people to reach a place that enables greater satisfaction & life enjoyment" I have many years experience working with anxiety, depression, the impact of trauma & abuse, stress, eating disorders, chronic health, attentional, personality & dissociative disorders.
I completed an initial degree in disability studies, then specialised in addiction.
HAVE Availability & NOW accepting NEW Clients! "I believe in choice & empowerment, and value respect, honesty, & integrity". "I love the collaborative process of working through life events. It is a pleasure and privilege to experience the emotional journey with people to reach a place that enables greater satisfaction & life enjoyment" I have many years experience working with anxiety, depression, the impact of trauma & abuse, stress, eating disorders, chronic health, attentional, personality & dissociative disorders.
0468 887 908 View 0468 887 908
Photo of Margot Trinder, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist
Margot Trinder
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000  (Online Only)
The Issues I can assist you with include: anxiety, depression and stress, trauma, grief and loss, lifestage transitions, parenting, substance addictions, neurodiversity and relationship difficulties .
I am a warm and experienced psychologist working with adults across the lifespan to address a broad range of issues. I bring deep respect and awareness to how each person's story, needs and circumstances are different. I draw from my decades of experience and professional training across a wide range of therapeutic modalities. My work is guided by a strong systemic approach: seeing all parts of a person, as well as the layers of relationships, family, work, culture and society that have and continue to influence and shape us. My approach ensures that each person I work with receives support tailored specifically for them.
The Issues I can assist you with include: anxiety, depression and stress, trauma, grief and loss, lifestage transitions, parenting, substance addictions, neurodiversity and relationship difficulties .
I am a warm and experienced psychologist working with adults across the lifespan to address a broad range of issues. I bring deep respect and awareness to how each person's story, needs and circumstances are different. I draw from my decades of experience and professional training across a wide range of therapeutic modalities. My work is guided by a strong systemic approach: seeing all parts of a person, as well as the layers of relationships, family, work, culture and society that have and continue to influence and shape us. My approach ensures that each person I work with receives support tailored specifically for them.
(07) 5240 9828 View (07) 5240 9828
Photo of Dr Nicolas Kessous, PsychD, Psychologist
Dr Nicolas Kessous
Psychologist, PsychD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Adelaide, SA 5000  (Online Only)
, depression, anxiety, anger, obsessions/compulsions, substance misuse, psychosis).
I am a clinical and forensic psychologist registered with the Psychology Board of Australia. I am also a member of the Australian Psychological Society, and a clinical member of the Association for the Treatment & Prevention of Sexual Abuse. I was trained to practise psychology in Canada, where I began my career as a psychologist in 2013.
, depression, anxiety, anger, obsessions/compulsions, substance misuse, psychosis).
I am a clinical and forensic psychologist registered with the Psychology Board of Australia. I am also a member of the Australian Psychological Society, and a clinical member of the Association for the Treatment & Prevention of Sexual Abuse. I was trained to practise psychology in Canada, where I began my career as a psychologist in 2013.
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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.