Addiction Counselling in Northbridge, WA
![Photo of Kerryn Ashford-Hatherly - Ashcliffe Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53532882-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashcliffe Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Northbridge, WA 6003
Specific treatment interventions provided by Ashcliffe: MATRIX PROGRAM Intensive Outpatient Treatment of Addiction COACHING: Solution Focused Cognitive Behavioural Coaching CBT PROGRAMS in Anger Management / Depression & Mood disorders / Anxiety CBTi Overcoming Insomnia Sleep Program .
ASHCLIFFE PSYCHOLOGY is a private clinical psychology practice offering a broad range of psychological services. The Ashcliffe Psychology practice is comprised of a team of Psychologist’s offering a variety of areas of expertise. The Directors, Kerryn Ashford-Hatherly and Michael Tunnecliffe have between them more than 50 years of clinical experience and both have worked in senior management roles within government, non-government agencies and the private sector.
Specific treatment interventions provided by Ashcliffe: MATRIX PROGRAM Intensive Outpatient Treatment of Addiction COACHING: Solution Focused Cognitive Behavioural Coaching CBT PROGRAMS in Anger Management / Depression & Mood disorders / Anxiety CBTi Overcoming Insomnia Sleep Program .
ASHCLIFFE PSYCHOLOGY is a private clinical psychology practice offering a broad range of psychological services. The Ashcliffe Psychology practice is comprised of a team of Psychologist’s offering a variety of areas of expertise. The Directors, Kerryn Ashford-Hatherly and Michael Tunnecliffe have between them more than 50 years of clinical experience and both have worked in senior management roles within government, non-government agencies and the private sector.
![Photo of Hugo M Gonzales - COPE - Centre of Psychological Enrichment, PhD, MAPS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf49dbee-11e0-4cf6-b578-5b32d49ae49c/1/320x400.png)
COPE - Centre of Psychological Enrichment
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Northbridge, WA 6003
Our practice offers a broad range of services including assessment and therapy for individuals, couples, children, families, workplaces and groups. We offer treatment for a wide range of mental health issues including (but not limited to): depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, stress/anger management, grief, addictive behaviours, self-esteem, relationship problems, sleeping problems, child behavioural and emotional problems, pain management and resilience. Our goal is to ensure the highest standard of evidenced based psychological intervention, psychometric testing and assessment.
Our practice offers a broad range of services including assessment and therapy for individuals, couples, children, families, workplaces and groups. We offer treatment for a wide range of mental health issues including (but not limited to): depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, stress/anger management, grief, addictive behaviours, self-esteem, relationship problems, sleeping problems, child behavioural and emotional problems, pain management and resilience. Our goal is to ensure the highest standard of evidenced based psychological intervention, psychometric testing and assessment.
![Photo of Dasha Lvov, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7afde7e7-2171-4277-a43b-29d9293aa92c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Registered Psychologist, having obtained my Psychology qualifications at the University of Melbourne and Murdoch University. My clinical experience commenced as a Behavioural Therapist working with children on the autism spectrum; then branching into high-complexity adult presentations in forensics, community alcohol and drug setting, trauma and private practice. I feel a sense of honour to be part of a therapeutic space where a person can feel safe to reflect, explore challenges, and recharge.
I am a Registered Psychologist, having obtained my Psychology qualifications at the University of Melbourne and Murdoch University. My clinical experience commenced as a Behavioural Therapist working with children on the autism spectrum; then branching into high-complexity adult presentations in forensics, community alcohol and drug setting, trauma and private practice. I feel a sense of honour to be part of a therapeutic space where a person can feel safe to reflect, explore challenges, and recharge.
![Photo of Nicole Logue - Nicole Logue - Relationship Counselling, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21d611ce-b6a1-4bd7-8576-65083b5afdb9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Logue - Relationship Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Northbridge, WA 6003
Helping couples to build healthy relationships through enhancing their communication, intimacy and sense of connection is one of my passions. Whether you're having difficult feeling heard by your partner, are having the same arguments that don't get resolved, want to bring back the spark to your partnership, or are needing healing after an affair there is still hope and I'd be happy to work with you.
Helping couples to build healthy relationships through enhancing their communication, intimacy and sense of connection is one of my passions. Whether you're having difficult feeling heard by your partner, are having the same arguments that don't get resolved, want to bring back the spark to your partnership, or are needing healing after an affair there is still hope and I'd be happy to work with you.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Jana Maddock - Jana Maddock Counselling, ACA-L4, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc3c8991-50b4-459d-b1fb-ee868eb19b9a/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Leesha Monson, PACFA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d36d2d3-c754-4a61-b4bf-bfd259ef8836/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leesha is a Counsellor and Psychotherapist specialising in women’s health, addiction, relationships, sexuality and work with young people. Leesha is a knowledgeable and empathetic counsellor who believes that connection and authenticity are essential elements in the therapeutic process. Leesha works in an integrative and holistic way to create a comfortable and safe environment where individuals and couples can explore effective ways to move through difficult times and challenges. Leesha provides opportunities for deep exploration of the root of old ideas which keep us stuck in patterns that no longer serve us.
Leesha is a Counsellor and Psychotherapist specialising in women’s health, addiction, relationships, sexuality and work with young people. Leesha is a knowledgeable and empathetic counsellor who believes that connection and authenticity are essential elements in the therapeutic process. Leesha works in an integrative and holistic way to create a comfortable and safe environment where individuals and couples can explore effective ways to move through difficult times and challenges. Leesha provides opportunities for deep exploration of the root of old ideas which keep us stuck in patterns that no longer serve us.
![Photo of Emma Mansell, PsychD, ACA-L1, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b683511-ec80-4155-80ff-f062e042d133/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Mike Daniel Carroll - Mike Carroll, MC Counselling, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3491a590-39cb-4018-91f4-2bce6c5d0bad/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Paris Matthews, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c8c4023-90f7-43ea-90fb-0c2bcc8a0ea5/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a Psychologist, I passionately believe that we as humans already hold the potential and resilience to be able to heal ourselves. I will work with you in a holistic and judgement-free way for you to be able to build upon your skills to be able to cope with the challenges that life presents to us. This is your journey, and I will be your guide. I have experience working with vulnerable populations within Government sectors of Disability Royal Commission, Child Protective Services and also Corrective Services, where I supported individuals with neurodiversity, couples and families, in addition to people experiencing addiction.
As a Psychologist, I passionately believe that we as humans already hold the potential and resilience to be able to heal ourselves. I will work with you in a holistic and judgement-free way for you to be able to build upon your skills to be able to cope with the challenges that life presents to us. This is your journey, and I will be your guide. I have experience working with vulnerable populations within Government sectors of Disability Royal Commission, Child Protective Services and also Corrective Services, where I supported individuals with neurodiversity, couples and families, in addition to people experiencing addiction.
![Photo of Tammy Maskill, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ebc2da7c-fe0d-488c-86ac-e0f6c3b06394/1/320x400.jpeg)
With lived experience of trauma and substance addiction, I understand how trauma, especially from our childhood, can impact every aspect of our lives.
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. I have a bachelor’s degree in counselling and have carried out (and continue to carry out) further training in trauma. Before moving into private practice, I worked as an Alcohol and Other Drug Clinician within the community sector.
With lived experience of trauma and substance addiction, I understand how trauma, especially from our childhood, can impact every aspect of our lives.
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. I have a bachelor’s degree in counselling and have carried out (and continue to carry out) further training in trauma. Before moving into private practice, I worked as an Alcohol and Other Drug Clinician within the community sector.
![Photo of Dr Astrid Staley - Online Trauma Brainspotting Counsellor, ACA-L3, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/711cc364-d9e2-4a36-bef5-9bf5becb40e0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Online Trauma Brainspotting Counsellor
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000 (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.
![Photo of Brad Middleton, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88b24a99-572d-46f9-a16e-036200766dec/2/320x400.jpeg)
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!
![Photo of Amy Bain, MA, ACA-L4, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64b72c42-9355-4707-83dd-2c7266d834f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome and thank you for visiting my page. The initial step towards growth and healing can often be daunting so rest assured that you are in safe and capable hands. I understand that life can be difficult and painful and sometimes you don't even know where to start. My work centers mostly around trauma recovery (PTSD - acute and complex, attachment/relational), grief and loss, addiction recovery and mental health. Working with both men and women I offer an eclectic approach to counselling where collaboration is at the center. Working with you at your own pace, to achieve meaning growth.
Welcome and thank you for visiting my page. The initial step towards growth and healing can often be daunting so rest assured that you are in safe and capable hands. I understand that life can be difficult and painful and sometimes you don't even know where to start. My work centers mostly around trauma recovery (PTSD - acute and complex, attachment/relational), grief and loss, addiction recovery and mental health. Working with both men and women I offer an eclectic approach to counselling where collaboration is at the center. Working with you at your own pace, to achieve meaning growth.
![Photo of Stuart Burling - The Bear Counselling, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac654baa-6f33-427d-9d09-b707d42050d2/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you are struggling, feeling lost, in conflict with yourself or loved ones, grieving or looking for meaning and purpose, please reach out. I aim to support people in need, to listen, and hold space for sharing difficult life experiences. I, too, have endured adversity, and in my darkest hours, I found the courage to reach out and seek the support I need. Through lived experience of addiction, suicide, FDV, narcissism, divorce, and parent alienation combined with expertise in counselling and specialist therapy knowledge, I focus on rebuilding lives and relationships, instilling hope when all seems lost.
If you are struggling, feeling lost, in conflict with yourself or loved ones, grieving or looking for meaning and purpose, please reach out. I aim to support people in need, to listen, and hold space for sharing difficult life experiences. I, too, have endured adversity, and in my darkest hours, I found the courage to reach out and seek the support I need. Through lived experience of addiction, suicide, FDV, narcissism, divorce, and parent alienation combined with expertise in counselling and specialist therapy knowledge, I focus on rebuilding lives and relationships, instilling hope when all seems lost.
![Photo of Bronte Galek - Anahata counselling, MC, PACFA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/776a053c-b082-4555-928f-0ecc341d6f75/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Veronica A Collins - Becomiing Holistic Psychotherapy and Counselling , PACFA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2719cf40-de3b-470c-a814-a31a5f0202c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Becomiing Holistic Psychotherapy and Counselling
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
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.
![Photo of johanna Waugh - Stickbymecounselling - Johanna , MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/adbb2a59-a466-4221-85cc-aa5edf7a0532/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jacinta Sfreddo, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1637155-5bdf-4b7b-9e25-50952a4d244a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jacinta Sfreddo
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
West Leederville, WA 6007
I am a registered Clinical Psychologist providing evidence based psychological therapy to individuals over 18 years old. I have 10 years of experience working with people who struggle with a variety of difficulties, including: Stress, Anxiety, Mood related disorders, Addiction, Grief and loss, Trauma, Low self-worth, Personality disorders; and other behavioural and thought patterns that keep people stuck in their pain.
I am a registered Clinical Psychologist providing evidence based psychological therapy to individuals over 18 years old. I have 10 years of experience working with people who struggle with a variety of difficulties, including: Stress, Anxiety, Mood related disorders, Addiction, Grief and loss, Trauma, Low self-worth, Personality disorders; and other behavioural and thought patterns that keep people stuck in their pain.
![Photo of Skye Frizza, ACA-L4, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c81c4976-c4e7-4d10-b8a5-48d41e7211d9/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples and families overcome communication breakdowns, navigate addiction issues, changes in relationships caused by everchanging life and the changes that accompany the antenatal and postnatal journey. My approach is rooted in collaboration and evidence based practice with an emphasis on creating a non-judgmental and compassionate environment. I understand relationships play a significant role in your overall well-being, and I am committed to helping people strengthen and improve these connections.
I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples and families overcome communication breakdowns, navigate addiction issues, changes in relationships caused by everchanging life and the changes that accompany the antenatal and postnatal journey. My approach is rooted in collaboration and evidence based practice with an emphasis on creating a non-judgmental and compassionate environment. I understand relationships play a significant role in your overall well-being, and I am committed to helping people strengthen and improve these connections.
![Photo of Francesca Palazzolo, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d602638-552c-40ef-bfa1-4cc920a811f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Francesca Palazzolo
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000 (Online Only)
If you are struggling with 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 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.
See more therapy options for Northbridge
Nearby Addiction Counsellors Searches for Northbridge
- East Perth
- Inglewood
- Leederville
- Maylands
- Mount Hawthorn
- Mount Lawley
- North Perth
- Perth
- Shenton Park
- Subiaco
- West Leederville
- West Perth
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.