Addiction Therapists in Edmonton, AB

Photo of Patrick Teghtmeyer - Patrick Teghtmeyer @ Interception Addiction Care, BA, BEd, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor
Patrick Teghtmeyer @ Interception Addiction Care
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, BA, BEd
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5W
The pain of addiction is grand, isolating and frightening.
I aim to support individuals & families to improve lives that have been negatively impacted by drugs, alcohol, gambling and process addictions. With 20 years of experience, we are well equipped with the knowledge and expertise to provide care and support for a full range of addiction concerns. I aim to help intercept and turn life back to the preferred direction of each individual and their families. I aim to help in the manner the impacted family members wish with a client centered approach. We are not able to force someone into change; however, our care and compassion allows individuals to explore change.
The pain of addiction is grand, isolating and frightening.
I aim to support individuals & families to improve lives that have been negatively impacted by drugs, alcohol, gambling and process addictions. With 20 years of experience, we are well equipped with the knowledge and expertise to provide care and support for a full range of addiction concerns. I aim to help intercept and turn life back to the preferred direction of each individual and their families. I aim to help in the manner the impacted family members wish with a client centered approach. We are not able to force someone into change; however, our care and compassion allows individuals to explore change.
(587) 713-8534 View (587) 713-8534
Photo of Bharat Sharma - Edmonton Counselling Services, MPCC, RSW, SAP, CCAC, DCA, Counsellor
Edmonton Counselling Services
Counsellor, MPCC, RSW, SAP, CCAC, DCA
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6K
I specialize in the adult and Adolescents population, and I have experience in management of Anger, Depression, Addiction, Anxiety, stress as well as issues concerning interpersonal relationships, and professional life.
Do you ever feel too overwhelmed to deal with your problems, and is it affecting your health and performance in your personal or professional life? If so, you are not alone! Psychotherapy may help you to get relief from symptoms and make you hopeful and smile again. I have a Master of Social Work Degree equivalency, I am a Master Practitioner in Clinical Counselling, Substance Abuse Professionals (SAP) US DOT, Designated Capacity Assessor in Alberta, & Canadian Clinical Supervisor - Addiction Counselor. I am a member of the Canadian Addiction Counselors Certification Federation and the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association.
I specialize in the adult and Adolescents population, and I have experience in management of Anger, Depression, Addiction, Anxiety, stress as well as issues concerning interpersonal relationships, and professional life.
Do you ever feel too overwhelmed to deal with your problems, and is it affecting your health and performance in your personal or professional life? If so, you are not alone! Psychotherapy may help you to get relief from symptoms and make you hopeful and smile again. I have a Master of Social Work Degree equivalency, I am a Master Practitioner in Clinical Counselling, Substance Abuse Professionals (SAP) US DOT, Designated Capacity Assessor in Alberta, & Canadian Clinical Supervisor - Addiction Counselor. I am a member of the Canadian Addiction Counselors Certification Federation and the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association.
(780) 666-7351 View (780) 666-7351
Photo of Corine Kozuchowski, BA, MC, Psychologist
Corine Kozuchowski
Psychologist, BA, MC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6C
Trouble managing your substance use? Looking to control it better so you experience less shame? Or did you relapse and you want to get your recovery back on track? Substance use counselling is my jam! Depression, anxiety, work stress, burn-out, codependency, self-esteem, and trauma are my other areas of focus. I strive to foster holistic wellbeing while validating, inspiring, challenging, and empowering. It is also likely we will have laugh! What sets me apart? It's my commitment to experiential knowledge and embracing real-life moments. www.ckps.ca
Trouble managing your substance use? Looking to control it better so you experience less shame? Or did you relapse and you want to get your recovery back on track? Substance use counselling is my jam! Depression, anxiety, work stress, burn-out, codependency, self-esteem, and trauma are my other areas of focus. I strive to foster holistic wellbeing while validating, inspiring, challenging, and empowering. It is also likely we will have laugh! What sets me apart? It's my commitment to experiential knowledge and embracing real-life moments. www.ckps.ca
(587) 801-7002 View (587) 801-7002
Photo of Omar Medina, Pre-Licensed Professional
Omar Medina
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E  (Online Only)
I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space for individuals facing challenges such as addiction, anxiety, life transitions, relationship concerns, and multicultural issues. Whether you're dealing with feelings of inadequacy, trust issues, infidelity recovery, or searching for purpose, I'm here to help you navigate your concerns.
I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space for individuals facing challenges such as addiction, anxiety, life transitions, relationship concerns, and multicultural issues. Whether you're dealing with feelings of inadequacy, trust issues, infidelity recovery, or searching for purpose, I'm here to help you navigate your concerns.
(825) 450-1204 View (825) 450-1204
Photo of Stephanie Yang, MC, RPsych, Psychologist
Stephanie Yang
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
Do you struggle with trauma, connecting to others, violence, or substance abuse/ addiction? Is the hurt from old wounds through relationships across your lifespan still causing you pain? I believe that like hurt, healing happens through relationships and we will work together to meet your goals and help you move forward on a path of healing. First and foremost, I believe you have inherent value simply by being human and will take a humanistic and strengths-based approach to your challenges. We will work together to process your experiences and create realistic strategies for moving forward.
Do you struggle with trauma, connecting to others, violence, or substance abuse/ addiction? Is the hurt from old wounds through relationships across your lifespan still causing you pain? I believe that like hurt, healing happens through relationships and we will work together to meet your goals and help you move forward on a path of healing. First and foremost, I believe you have inherent value simply by being human and will take a humanistic and strengths-based approach to your challenges. We will work together to process your experiences and create realistic strategies for moving forward.
(825) 250-3855 View (825) 250-3855
Photo of Angela Eddy, BHSc, RP, CCAC, CSAT, Registered Psychotherapist
Angela Eddy
Registered Psychotherapist, BHSc, RP, CCAC, CSAT
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6K
I offer individual counselling to adults in areas such as alcohol, drug, gambling and sex addiction I also counsel people who struggle with anxiety, depression, managing emotions and communication. I work with people who want to quit smoking or cut back to make positive healthy change in their lives. I believe everyone can lead a healthy fulfilled life and I support people who want to make that change. I help families who have loved ones who are addicted and help support them to understand their loved ones addiction and how it impacts their lives.
I offer individual counselling to adults in areas such as alcohol, drug, gambling and sex addiction I also counsel people who struggle with anxiety, depression, managing emotions and communication. I work with people who want to quit smoking or cut back to make positive healthy change in their lives. I believe everyone can lead a healthy fulfilled life and I support people who want to make that change. I help families who have loved ones who are addicted and help support them to understand their loved ones addiction and how it impacts their lives.
(289) 273-2267 View (289) 273-2267
Photo of Shedean Jones, MC, AGRM, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Shedean Jones
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC, AGRM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5M
Thank you for being here. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, addiction or overall life stress? Do you need help navigating the complexities of infertility, miscarriage, an abortion or fertility treatments? Are you and your partner seeking ways to rebuild trust, enhance communication, and make positive life transitions together? Addressing these issues can lead to profound personal growth and improved relationships, providing a foundation for a more authentic and fulfilling life and I am here to help.
Thank you for being here. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, addiction or overall life stress? Do you need help navigating the complexities of infertility, miscarriage, an abortion or fertility treatments? Are you and your partner seeking ways to rebuild trust, enhance communication, and make positive life transitions together? Addressing these issues can lead to profound personal growth and improved relationships, providing a foundation for a more authentic and fulfilling life and I am here to help.
(587) 855-4470 View (587) 855-4470
Photo of Christine Lee, MEd, RPsych, Psychologist
Christine Lee
Psychologist, MEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6G
My areas of interests include anxiety, depression, anger management, substance abuse/ addiction, trauma, stress management and self-esteem.
I believe we all have internal strengths and resources to work through life's challenges. Sometimes we lose sight of these strengths, sometimes there are gaps in our skills set, or perhaps there are blind spots in how we view a problem situation. My role is to help clients explore, discover and understand themselves and to help clients learn new skills and strategies to address the presenting concern.
My areas of interests include anxiety, depression, anger management, substance abuse/ addiction, trauma, stress management and self-esteem.
I believe we all have internal strengths and resources to work through life's challenges. Sometimes we lose sight of these strengths, sometimes there are gaps in our skills set, or perhaps there are blind spots in how we view a problem situation. My role is to help clients explore, discover and understand themselves and to help clients learn new skills and strategies to address the presenting concern.
(587) 410-6721 View (587) 410-6721
Photo of Adrian James, MA, RPsych, Psychologist
Adrian James
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6C
Some of my approaches will include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), couples counselling, trauma therapy and addiction counseling.
Depression, anxiety, emotional challenges, relationship concerns, anger and addictions, to name a few, can be hard on our health. One can often feel alone, feel that no one understands, or fear being judged. I will support you by creating a safe space. Let us talk. My goal is to help you identify potential causes and find healthy ways to resolve issues, and guide you through those vulnerable moments.
Some of my approaches will include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), couples counselling, trauma therapy and addiction counseling.
Depression, anxiety, emotional challenges, relationship concerns, anger and addictions, to name a few, can be hard on our health. One can often feel alone, feel that no one understands, or fear being judged. I will support you by creating a safe space. Let us talk. My goal is to help you identify potential causes and find healthy ways to resolve issues, and guide you through those vulnerable moments.
(587) 804-5454 View (587) 804-5454
Photo of Christie Mellan, MA , MSW , Registered Social Worker
Christie Mellan
Registered Social Worker, MA , MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5K
For over 15 years, I've dedicated myself to the field of addiction and mental health. I’m here to support you on your journey to healing and wellness with compassion and empowerment at the heart of my practice. I create space where you can explore your emotions, embrace your fully-lived experiences, and build resilience within. Through a trauma-informed, holistic approach, I integrate the best clinical practices to meet your unique needs and help you develop your inner strength.
For over 15 years, I've dedicated myself to the field of addiction and mental health. I’m here to support you on your journey to healing and wellness with compassion and empowerment at the heart of my practice. I create space where you can explore your emotions, embrace your fully-lived experiences, and build resilience within. Through a trauma-informed, holistic approach, I integrate the best clinical practices to meet your unique needs and help you develop your inner strength.
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Photo of Michelle Finley, Bsc, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Michelle Finley
Counsellor, Bsc, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5M
I worked as an addiction counsellor for 12+ years and was a police officer for 7+.
I work with anxiety, addiction ( substance use) and chronic pain. Sometimes the little things become too much and you find you're overreacting or panicking. Maybe you can't get a situation out of your head and you're overthinking or stressed about it. Maybe you tired of numbing the pain or avoiding your problems cause it isn't helping. Sometimes our motivation is to stop passing on unhealthy patterns to our kids. Maybe you want to control your emotions so they don't control you. If you want to work on the roots of addiction and the stress and anxiety that is always brewing below the surface of chronic pain, we could be a fit.
I worked as an addiction counsellor for 12+ years and was a police officer for 7+.
I work with anxiety, addiction ( substance use) and chronic pain. Sometimes the little things become too much and you find you're overreacting or panicking. Maybe you can't get a situation out of your head and you're overthinking or stressed about it. Maybe you tired of numbing the pain or avoiding your problems cause it isn't helping. Sometimes our motivation is to stop passing on unhealthy patterns to our kids. Maybe you want to control your emotions so they don't control you. If you want to work on the roots of addiction and the stress and anxiety that is always brewing below the surface of chronic pain, we could be a fit.
(780) 710-9567 View (780) 710-9567
Photo of Mary Sorobey, BA, MA, Psychologist
Mary Sorobey
Psychologist, BA, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
With 15 + years of dedicated experience in addiction therapy, I have guided numerous individuals towards reclaiming control over their lives.
If you are feeling the weight of substance use or facing mental health challenges while managing critical tasks in safety-sensitive roles, you know the stakes are high. These challenges might not only jeopardize your career but can deeply impact your personal life as well. It can be hard to concentrate at work, sustain healthy relationships, or maintain your well-being. This battle can make you feel isolated and powerless, complicating your ability to see a clear path forward. The good news is recovery is possible, and help is available to guide you to a healthier and more fulfilled life.
With 15 + years of dedicated experience in addiction therapy, I have guided numerous individuals towards reclaiming control over their lives.
If you are feeling the weight of substance use or facing mental health challenges while managing critical tasks in safety-sensitive roles, you know the stakes are high. These challenges might not only jeopardize your career but can deeply impact your personal life as well. It can be hard to concentrate at work, sustain healthy relationships, or maintain your well-being. This battle can make you feel isolated and powerless, complicating your ability to see a clear path forward. The good news is recovery is possible, and help is available to guide you to a healthier and more fulfilled life.
(587) 803-1315 View (587) 803-1315
Photo of Alcia J. Reynolds-Mains, MA, Bsc, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Alcia J. Reynolds-Mains
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MA, Bsc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5Y  (Online Only)
I work mainly with challenges faced by women and children related to immigration and reintegration in another country, addiction, mental health, marginalization and relationships. My number one goal is to meet people where they are at and walk along with them on their journey towards a more rewarding and fulfilling one, where they can resolve or gain a different perspective on their situation, and is and learn new skills to help them through life. Clients strengths are highlighted and they are motivated to develop autonomy and confidence in their ability to make important decisions that affect their wellbeing.
I work mainly with challenges faced by women and children related to immigration and reintegration in another country, addiction, mental health, marginalization and relationships. My number one goal is to meet people where they are at and walk along with them on their journey towards a more rewarding and fulfilling one, where they can resolve or gain a different perspective on their situation, and is and learn new skills to help them through life. Clients strengths are highlighted and they are motivated to develop autonomy and confidence in their ability to make important decisions that affect their wellbeing.
(587) 815-4019 View (587) 815-4019
Photo of Karen Gaudin, R Psych, MC, HBA, Psychologist
Karen Gaudin
Psychologist, R Psych, MC, HBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6X
From my personal battles and experiences with ADHD, anxiety, trauma, addiction and being bi-sexual I can intimately understand your life struggles.
Life doesn't unfold neatly; neither does healing. The complexities that life throws at you can feel very overwhelming. Yet these experiences, though challenging, are also avenues for positive change. Together we will not only explore these aspects but also unravel your strength and resilience that often remain hidden beneath the surface. Through your journey I aim to not only help you find relief from pain; but also to empower you to transform these challenges into stepping stones toward a brighter future, and a more Authentic YOU! I promise to provide a safe space where you feel accepted, heard, respected, supported and understood.
From my personal battles and experiences with ADHD, anxiety, trauma, addiction and being bi-sexual I can intimately understand your life struggles.
Life doesn't unfold neatly; neither does healing. The complexities that life throws at you can feel very overwhelming. Yet these experiences, though challenging, are also avenues for positive change. Together we will not only explore these aspects but also unravel your strength and resilience that often remain hidden beneath the surface. Through your journey I aim to not only help you find relief from pain; but also to empower you to transform these challenges into stepping stones toward a brighter future, and a more Authentic YOU! I promise to provide a safe space where you feel accepted, heard, respected, supported and understood.
(587) 821-2289 View (587) 821-2289
Photo of Shirvington M. A. Hannays, CCS-AC, CCTACP, CCAC, Counsellor
Shirvington M. A. Hannays
Counsellor, CCS-AC, CCTACP, CCAC
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5J
I am Trained in CBT, ACT, REBT and Narrative therapy for Substance Abuse Disorders; Anxiety; and Depression treatments.
I work with clients challenged with repeat relapsing with Addictions, life skills challenges and other mental Health related illnesses or Maladaptive behaviours who have never done treatment before or have done treatment several times but relapsed soon after treatment, repeated relapses and are being referred for treatment due to moderate-to-severe addictive behaviours. I use personalized teletherapy and in-person treatments using CBT, REBT, ACT, and my Strenght-based RElapse Hijack and Rescue brief interventions from the masterclasses “How to become motivated and committed to Change”, and "How to REScue YourSELF from a RElapse".
I am Trained in CBT, ACT, REBT and Narrative therapy for Substance Abuse Disorders; Anxiety; and Depression treatments.
I work with clients challenged with repeat relapsing with Addictions, life skills challenges and other mental Health related illnesses or Maladaptive behaviours who have never done treatment before or have done treatment several times but relapsed soon after treatment, repeated relapses and are being referred for treatment due to moderate-to-severe addictive behaviours. I use personalized teletherapy and in-person treatments using CBT, REBT, ACT, and my Strenght-based RElapse Hijack and Rescue brief interventions from the masterclasses “How to become motivated and committed to Change”, and "How to REScue YourSELF from a RElapse".
(587) 417-2659 View (587) 417-2659
Photo of Ashley Barlow, PhD, Psychologist
Ashley Barlow
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6V
Waitlist for new clients
I apply this perspective to a variety of issues including substance use, domestic violence, sexual behaviour concerns, problematic pornography use, and abusive behaviours.
I recognize that seeking out therapy is a challenging decision for many and I have the opportunity to work with people through what are some of the most difficult times in their lives. I do this work because I love to celebrate the successes, absurdities, and challenges of my clients. I like to approach my clients with warmth, humor, and directness and I work hard to make my office a safe place for people to explore the darkness and the light that exists within them, and indeed all of us.
I apply this perspective to a variety of issues including substance use, domestic violence, sexual behaviour concerns, problematic pornography use, and abusive behaviours.
I recognize that seeking out therapy is a challenging decision for many and I have the opportunity to work with people through what are some of the most difficult times in their lives. I do this work because I love to celebrate the successes, absurdities, and challenges of my clients. I like to approach my clients with warmth, humor, and directness and I work hard to make my office a safe place for people to explore the darkness and the light that exists within them, and indeed all of us.
(587) 323-4367 View (587) 323-4367
Photo of Keisha Sb Forrest - Keisha Virago Integrative Counselling, RPC-C
Keisha Virago Integrative Counselling
Registered Professional Counsellor - Candidate, RPC-C
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E  (Online Only)
I have 15 years of experience dealing with addictions and understand how unresolved trauma can lead to substance abuse, unhealthy relationships and lifestyle, as well as mental health complications including anxiety, depression, and chronic stress.
I help people learn to forgive themselves for the things they had to do in order to survive. I believe that when we feel safe in our body and free from the shackles of our past, we can create our dream reality. By honouring our sensitive nature, and creating a safe space to explore, we can set our inner child free - inviting playfulness, humour, and curiosity to the healing process. We are not what has happened to us, we are who we choose to become. I'm here to help you discover who you truly are on a soul level.
I have 15 years of experience dealing with addictions and understand how unresolved trauma can lead to substance abuse, unhealthy relationships and lifestyle, as well as mental health complications including anxiety, depression, and chronic stress.
I help people learn to forgive themselves for the things they had to do in order to survive. I believe that when we feel safe in our body and free from the shackles of our past, we can create our dream reality. By honouring our sensitive nature, and creating a safe space to explore, we can set our inner child free - inviting playfulness, humour, and curiosity to the healing process. We are not what has happened to us, we are who we choose to become. I'm here to help you discover who you truly are on a soul level.
(587) 858-3152 View (587) 858-3152
Photo of Kiran Qureshi, MA, R Psych, Psychologist
Kiran Qureshi
Psychologist, MA, R Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6X
Are you feeling overwhelmed, lost and struggling with a lack of meaning in life? I am here to support you. I will work collaboratively with you to reduce troubling symptoms and help you regain a sense of purpose and connection. I predominately work with clients who have experienced trauma, in addition to other concerns such as PTSD, anxiety, addiction and body image issues. I have experience working with people from various ethnic backgrounds, including Indigenous peoples and immigrants struggling with complex trauma and loss of culture.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, lost and struggling with a lack of meaning in life? I am here to support you. I will work collaboratively with you to reduce troubling symptoms and help you regain a sense of purpose and connection. I predominately work with clients who have experienced trauma, in addition to other concerns such as PTSD, anxiety, addiction and body image issues. I have experience working with people from various ethnic backgrounds, including Indigenous peoples and immigrants struggling with complex trauma and loss of culture.
(825) 809-5159 View (825) 809-5159
Photo of Jo-Anne C Guenette, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jo-Anne C Guenette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5W
Have you been struggling with adapting to recent changes? Has there been an increase in your substance consumption over the last few months? While alcohol consumption is a socially acceptable solution, it can lead to much bigger issues.
Accepting New Patients - Navigating life's unexpected challenges and stress can lead to feelings of overwhelm, being lost, and feeling alone. Often when people experience this discomfort they use coping strategies that can lead to negative outcomes, such as low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and using substances. If you are needing help to get back to yourself and learn new healthy coping strategies, wanting to explore addictions treatment or have untreated trauma, we will work together to develop a treatment plan that suits your needs and helps to achieve your goals.
Have you been struggling with adapting to recent changes? Has there been an increase in your substance consumption over the last few months? While alcohol consumption is a socially acceptable solution, it can lead to much bigger issues.
Accepting New Patients - Navigating life's unexpected challenges and stress can lead to feelings of overwhelm, being lost, and feeling alone. Often when people experience this discomfort they use coping strategies that can lead to negative outcomes, such as low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and using substances. If you are needing help to get back to yourself and learn new healthy coping strategies, wanting to explore addictions treatment or have untreated trauma, we will work together to develop a treatment plan that suits your needs and helps to achieve your goals.
(587) 604-6314 View (587) 604-6314
Photo of Deanna Clarke - Dee's Therapeutic Counseling, CCYC, BHSc, CCAC, RTC, Counsellor
Deanna Clarke - Dee's Therapeutic Counseling
Counsellor, CCYC, BHSc, CCAC, RTC
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5H
I am an experienced therapist specializing in counseling individuals, couples, children, and youth, offering addiction therapy and transpersonal psychotherapy. Whether you find yourself grappling with life transitions, trauma, addiction, stress, anxiety, depression, grief or simply yearning to cultivate a life of profound meaning and fulfillment, drawing upon my wealth of experience, I will accompany you on the path towards your heart’s desires and goals. I create a supportive environment, and use evidence-based methods for addiction treatment, and incorporate spiritual aspects into therapy.
I am an experienced therapist specializing in counseling individuals, couples, children, and youth, offering addiction therapy and transpersonal psychotherapy. Whether you find yourself grappling with life transitions, trauma, addiction, stress, anxiety, depression, grief or simply yearning to cultivate a life of profound meaning and fulfillment, drawing upon my wealth of experience, I will accompany you on the path towards your heart’s desires and goals. I create a supportive environment, and use evidence-based methods for addiction treatment, and incorporate spiritual aspects into therapy.
(825) 251-8624 View (825) 251-8624
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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.