Addiction Therapists in Richmond, BC

Photo of Linda Lane-Devlin -Private Practice, ICADC, CIP, CCAC, CCCS, BA, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor
Linda Lane-Devlin -Private Practice
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, ICADC, CIP, CCAC, CCCS, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richmond, BC V6V
Linda got her start working in the social services industry for over two decades and continued onto being one of the top Executive Management Leaders in the Addictions Health Care Industry in Canada.
Addiction Specialist, Counsellor- Internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counsellor (CACCF), CCCS, CCAC Certified Counsellor , Board Certified Interventionist PCB CIP. Linda continues to educate, innovate, inspire and support clients, families, about using a more collaborative approach. She has over 25 years of experience working in the addictions field. Linda's commitment to excellence in best practice guides the service provision. People's behaviors are shaped by their experiences, and each person is unique in this regard.
Linda got her start working in the social services industry for over two decades and continued onto being one of the top Executive Management Leaders in the Addictions Health Care Industry in Canada.
Addiction Specialist, Counsellor- Internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counsellor (CACCF), CCCS, CCAC Certified Counsellor , Board Certified Interventionist PCB CIP. Linda continues to educate, innovate, inspire and support clients, families, about using a more collaborative approach. She has over 25 years of experience working in the addictions field. Linda's commitment to excellence in best practice guides the service provision. People's behaviors are shaped by their experiences, and each person is unique in this regard.
(778) 400-6685 View (778) 400-6685
Photo of Mark van Vliet, MDiv, RCC, CSAT, Counsellor
Mark van Vliet
Counsellor, MDiv, RCC, CSAT
Verified Verified
Richmond, BC V6Y
I understand how difficult these addictions are to overcome on your own and I know the real damage it can create in your life.
I work with clients struggling with pornography and sex addiction. I draw upon my training as a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and my experience as an addictions counsellor at a premier addictions treatment clinic in Vancouver. Working with you would allow us to target the underlying issues and the root causes of these behaviours to provide a plan for you to move forward and be free. My other areas of expertise include drug and alcohol addiction.
I understand how difficult these addictions are to overcome on your own and I know the real damage it can create in your life.
I work with clients struggling with pornography and sex addiction. I draw upon my training as a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and my experience as an addictions counsellor at a premier addictions treatment clinic in Vancouver. Working with you would allow us to target the underlying issues and the root causes of these behaviours to provide a plan for you to move forward and be free. My other areas of expertise include drug and alcohol addiction.
(778) 764-1560 View (778) 764-1560
Photo of Justin Bagan, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Justin Bagan
Counsellor, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Richmond, BC V6V  (Online Only)
Overwhelmed by life's challenges? Whether it's anxiety, complex relationships, substance use, impulsive habits, depression, or feeling lost and disconnected, you're not alone. With a background in addiction and substance use counselling, I’ve walked alongside clients to figure out what practical insights, tools, and resources to draw on to move forward. Originally from Winnipeg, my approach is based in CBT and Taoist and Buddhist philosophy. Successes with clients in areas of personal well-being, relationships, family, behavioral health, coping, and adapting to changes inform our work together.
Overwhelmed by life's challenges? Whether it's anxiety, complex relationships, substance use, impulsive habits, depression, or feeling lost and disconnected, you're not alone. With a background in addiction and substance use counselling, I’ve walked alongside clients to figure out what practical insights, tools, and resources to draw on to move forward. Originally from Winnipeg, my approach is based in CBT and Taoist and Buddhist philosophy. Successes with clients in areas of personal well-being, relationships, family, behavioral health, coping, and adapting to changes inform our work together.
(778) 762-0364 View (778) 762-0364
Photo of Cindy Kwok, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Cindy Kwok
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, BC V6X
Do you struggle with self-esteem or managing your emotions? Are you having difficulty coping or having difficulty in your family or personal relationships? Do you need help recovering from substance abuse? Have you experienced trauma in the past? In therapy, we will draw from practical tools that you can start applying in everyday life to build and sustain recovery. We will work towards tangible results — improved self confidence, better romantic and peer relationships, and sustained sobriety. Therapy is a safe space to start permanent healing. I am looking forward to hearing your story and to providing effective support.
Do you struggle with self-esteem or managing your emotions? Are you having difficulty coping or having difficulty in your family or personal relationships? Do you need help recovering from substance abuse? Have you experienced trauma in the past? In therapy, we will draw from practical tools that you can start applying in everyday life to build and sustain recovery. We will work towards tangible results — improved self confidence, better romantic and peer relationships, and sustained sobriety. Therapy is a safe space to start permanent healing. I am looking forward to hearing your story and to providing effective support.
(289) 278-6902 View (289) 278-6902
Photo of Johnson Ma, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Johnson Ma
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Richmond, BC V6X
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a bilingual psychologist based in Greater Vancouver area. I have experiences in providing culturally sensitive and trauma-informed psychological services in English, Mandarin and Cantonese to people of diversity struggling with serious mental illness, complex trauma,  addiction, concurrent disorders, rehabilitation from physical injuries and traumatic events. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your feelings, develop coping strategies, and work towards healing and growth.
I'm a bilingual psychologist based in Greater Vancouver area. I have experiences in providing culturally sensitive and trauma-informed psychological services in English, Mandarin and Cantonese to people of diversity struggling with serious mental illness, complex trauma,  addiction, concurrent disorders, rehabilitation from physical injuries and traumatic events. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your feelings, develop coping strategies, and work towards healing and growth.
(604) 670-9580 View (604) 670-9580
Photo of David Bowes, MC, RCC, Counsellor
David Bowes
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
Richmond, BC V7A
Waitlist for new clients
Having studied and applied Neurofeedback to my clinical work since 2005, I know firsthand its effectiveness with: ADHD, addiction, anxiety, chronic pain, depression, learning disorders, migraines, PTSD, sleep issues, and more.
Using a cutting edge combination of psychotherapy, neurofeedback, and biofeedback, I take a holistic approach to wellness which addresses the mind, brain, body, and spirit. If you or your child is stuck and unable to navigate self-defeating or unmanageable patterns of behaviour, emotion, or relationships, I have powerful tools and 15+ years of experience to help you find freedom and optimize your well being. As a counsellor, my priority is to ensure that my clients feel safe, understood, and skillfully supported in a compassionate and non-judgmental atmosphere. "The person is never the problem - the problem is the problem".
Having studied and applied Neurofeedback to my clinical work since 2005, I know firsthand its effectiveness with: ADHD, addiction, anxiety, chronic pain, depression, learning disorders, migraines, PTSD, sleep issues, and more.
Using a cutting edge combination of psychotherapy, neurofeedback, and biofeedback, I take a holistic approach to wellness which addresses the mind, brain, body, and spirit. If you or your child is stuck and unable to navigate self-defeating or unmanageable patterns of behaviour, emotion, or relationships, I have powerful tools and 15+ years of experience to help you find freedom and optimize your well being. As a counsellor, my priority is to ensure that my clients feel safe, understood, and skillfully supported in a compassionate and non-judgmental atmosphere. "The person is never the problem - the problem is the problem".
(855) 997-1404 View (855) 997-1404
Photo of Shefong Tseng, RTC, MSc, PEng, Counsellor
Shefong Tseng
Counsellor, RTC, MSc, PEng
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, BC V6V
I've worked in Vancouver’s downtown east side, addiction recovery facilities, hospitals, and hospice care centres.
If you are struggling with a loss of direction or purpose, and want to rejuvenate life with renewed purpose, facing death or about to lose a loved one, I will work with you to find peace and broader meanings so you can carry on with joy and loving memories. I believe that everyone has the potential to grow beyond their current limits regardless of what they are struggling with i.e. addiction, relationship, life-transitions, or meaninglessness etc.
I've worked in Vancouver’s downtown east side, addiction recovery facilities, hospitals, and hospice care centres.
If you are struggling with a loss of direction or purpose, and want to rejuvenate life with renewed purpose, facing death or about to lose a loved one, I will work with you to find peace and broader meanings so you can carry on with joy and loving memories. I believe that everyone has the potential to grow beyond their current limits regardless of what they are struggling with i.e. addiction, relationship, life-transitions, or meaninglessness etc.
(548) 906-5154 View (548) 906-5154
Photo of Tamara Ukwu, MSW, RSW, RCC, PhD abd, Registered Social Worker
Tamara Ukwu
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RCC, PhD abd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, BC V6V
I bring international experience, a specialization in primary addiction prevention, trauma-informed training, a social justice lens, and expertise with clients of diverse cultural backgrounds to my practice.
I have over 15 years of experience providing therapy to individuals from a wide spectrum of cultural, socio-economic, ethnic, educational and other diversified (multicultural, multiracial and multiethnic) backgrounds. I work with adults, youth and families, experiencing difficult life transitions, stress, anxiety, anger, substance use, trauma, emotional dysregulation and depression. I am EMDR and DBT trained and specialize in ADHD work with kids and teenagers and eating disorders. My practice is person-centered, trauma-informed, collaborative, anti-oppressive and strength-based. I am CVAP, ICBC, EAP and FNHA-approved counsellor.
I bring international experience, a specialization in primary addiction prevention, trauma-informed training, a social justice lens, and expertise with clients of diverse cultural backgrounds to my practice.
I have over 15 years of experience providing therapy to individuals from a wide spectrum of cultural, socio-economic, ethnic, educational and other diversified (multicultural, multiracial and multiethnic) backgrounds. I work with adults, youth and families, experiencing difficult life transitions, stress, anxiety, anger, substance use, trauma, emotional dysregulation and depression. I am EMDR and DBT trained and specialize in ADHD work with kids and teenagers and eating disorders. My practice is person-centered, trauma-informed, collaborative, anti-oppressive and strength-based. I am CVAP, ICBC, EAP and FNHA-approved counsellor.
(587) 804-0560 View (587) 804-0560
Photo of Edna Ng, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Edna Ng
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Richmond, BC V6V  (Online Only)
Hello! I am committed to meeting you with gentle curiosity, openness, and gratitude. All parts of you are welcome here. Together, I hope we can co-create an empowering space to explore, rest, grow, and heal. I offer individual counselling to teens and adults, and I'm especially passionate about working with those who are navigating self-esteem, relationships, sex, life transitions, stress, burnout, substance use, depression, and all aspects of identity. I also offer couples counselling and have completed Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
Hello! I am committed to meeting you with gentle curiosity, openness, and gratitude. All parts of you are welcome here. Together, I hope we can co-create an empowering space to explore, rest, grow, and heal. I offer individual counselling to teens and adults, and I'm especially passionate about working with those who are navigating self-esteem, relationships, sex, life transitions, stress, burnout, substance use, depression, and all aspects of identity. I also offer couples counselling and have completed Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
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Photo of Corey Chan, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Corey Chan
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richmond, BC V6V
I am dedicated to helping you address your concerns and issues and focus on what’s important to you. We do this on your terms and at your pace. Through an effective, non-judgemental, therapeutic relationship, I help you examine the different areas of your life and help you make practical and meaningful changes. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use issues or other concerns, I'll work with you to make the changes you want to see. I am also experienced in providing specialized support to the LGBTQ+ community as well as gender affirming care.
I am dedicated to helping you address your concerns and issues and focus on what’s important to you. We do this on your terms and at your pace. Through an effective, non-judgemental, therapeutic relationship, I help you examine the different areas of your life and help you make practical and meaningful changes. Whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use issues or other concerns, I'll work with you to make the changes you want to see. I am also experienced in providing specialized support to the LGBTQ+ community as well as gender affirming care.
(604) 283-2523 View (604) 283-2523
Photo of Howard Wong, PsyD, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Howard Wong
Counsellor, PsyD, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, BC V6Y  (Online Only)
My expertise lies in psychotherapy/counseling for adults, teenagers, children (> 9 years old), and couples with depressive and anxiety disorders, PTSD, grief, substance use, life transitions, self-esteem, parenting and couple relationships, as well as workplace/academic stress. Sessions can be conducted in English, Cantonese and Mandarin
My expertise lies in psychotherapy/counseling for adults, teenagers, children (> 9 years old), and couples with depressive and anxiety disorders, PTSD, grief, substance use, life transitions, self-esteem, parenting and couple relationships, as well as workplace/academic stress. Sessions can be conducted in English, Cantonese and Mandarin
(672) 800-1681 View (672) 800-1681
Photo of Phyllis Chan - Horizon, CCC, MEd
Horizon
CCC, MEd
Verified Verified
Richmond, BC V6X  (Online Only)
I am a Canadian Certified Counsellor (#3261) with good standing. I have over 15 years of counselling experience. I completed my master’s degree in counselling psychology at the University of British Columbia. I have extensive training and experience working with people with gambling and drug/alcohol addictions and individuals suffering from depression, marital issues, anxiety, family issues or PTSD. In addition to my private practice, I work as a counsellor for Vancouver Coastal Health. I am also a contract counsellor with the BC Responsible and Problem Gambling Program and I am part of WorkSafe BC provider network.
I am a Canadian Certified Counsellor (#3261) with good standing. I have over 15 years of counselling experience. I completed my master’s degree in counselling psychology at the University of British Columbia. I have extensive training and experience working with people with gambling and drug/alcohol addictions and individuals suffering from depression, marital issues, anxiety, family issues or PTSD. In addition to my private practice, I work as a counsellor for Vancouver Coastal Health. I am also a contract counsellor with the BC Responsible and Problem Gambling Program and I am part of WorkSafe BC provider network.
(587) 815-0982 View (587) 815-0982
Photo of Rebecca Hunting, BA, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Rebecca Hunting
Counsellor, BA, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Richmond, BC V6V  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My focus is on Relationship Counselling. This encompasses all forms of relationships on an individual, couple or group counselling basis. Often when clients come in, clarification may be needed in order for clients to fully understand their part in a relationship. If this is the case, the first sessions will be on how to communicate from a grounded, rational viewpoint. Once this is achieved, clients will move into the next phase of deep relational emotion focused counselling to allow for a deeper understanding of self and each other.
My focus is on Relationship Counselling. This encompasses all forms of relationships on an individual, couple or group counselling basis. Often when clients come in, clarification may be needed in order for clients to fully understand their part in a relationship. If this is the case, the first sessions will be on how to communicate from a grounded, rational viewpoint. Once this is achieved, clients will move into the next phase of deep relational emotion focused counselling to allow for a deeper understanding of self and each other.
(877) 661-2474 View (877) 661-2474
Photo of Rolf Schrader, MA, RCC, MNLP, CHT
Rolf Schrader
MA, RCC, MNLP, CHT
Not Verified Not Verified
Richmond, BC V6X  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with life or facing a difficult challenge? Do you have an inner critic who is just tearing you down? As your psychotherapist, I can help you eliminate those patterns or parts that have been impeding your progress, stopping you from having the life you want, you deserve. Together in a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space you can:
Are you struggling with life or facing a difficult challenge? Do you have an inner critic who is just tearing you down? As your psychotherapist, I can help you eliminate those patterns or parts that have been impeding your progress, stopping you from having the life you want, you deserve. Together in a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space you can:
(855) 338-0576 View (855) 338-0576
Photo of Lazzaro Pisu, DHP, CHI, NGH, MCH
Lazzaro Pisu
DHP, CHI, NGH, MCH
Verified Verified
Richmond, BC V6X
Lazzaro Pisu is one of the most recommended Hypnotherapist and Psychotherapist in Canada. Over the past years to the present day Lazzaro have helped thousands of private patients, and based on the effective of his sessions he built a respectable practice and name, and his clients are not only from Canada but from around the world. Clients go to Lazzaro for issues related to Depression, Anxiety, Addictions, Trauma, Abuse, Loss of Purpose, Self Confidence, Motivation, Moodiness, Sexual Problems, Bereavement and Loss, Stroke Recovery and other personal issues. Call Lazzao to get fast results and to get better mentally and physically.
Lazzaro Pisu is one of the most recommended Hypnotherapist and Psychotherapist in Canada. Over the past years to the present day Lazzaro have helped thousands of private patients, and based on the effective of his sessions he built a respectable practice and name, and his clients are not only from Canada but from around the world. Clients go to Lazzaro for issues related to Depression, Anxiety, Addictions, Trauma, Abuse, Loss of Purpose, Self Confidence, Motivation, Moodiness, Sexual Problems, Bereavement and Loss, Stroke Recovery and other personal issues. Call Lazzao to get fast results and to get better mentally and physically.
(855) 680-3228 View (855) 680-3228
Photo of Claudia Dagnino, MA,  RCC, RRT, RYT200, Counsellor
Claudia Dagnino
Counsellor, MA, RCC, RRT, RYT200
Verified Verified
Richmond, BC V6V
Overwhelmed by thoughts, feelings and behaviors interfering with your life? Looking for change with lasting results? Have you tried counselling modalities that did not bring significant improvements to your life? Then I am the therapist that can effectively guide you to conquer that change. I have several years of therapeutic experience working as a Clinical Counsellor with reputable organizations such as Vancouver Coastal Health, Battered Women Support Services, and Vancouver School Board to name a few. My practice is also enriched by a Multicultural Approach. My location is easily accessible from Vancouver and Lower Mainland.
Overwhelmed by thoughts, feelings and behaviors interfering with your life? Looking for change with lasting results? Have you tried counselling modalities that did not bring significant improvements to your life? Then I am the therapist that can effectively guide you to conquer that change. I have several years of therapeutic experience working as a Clinical Counsellor with reputable organizations such as Vancouver Coastal Health, Battered Women Support Services, and Vancouver School Board to name a few. My practice is also enriched by a Multicultural Approach. My location is easily accessible from Vancouver and Lower Mainland.
(778) 771-4203 View (778) 771-4203
Photo of Trevor Gray, MSW, RSW
Trevor Gray
MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richmond, BC V6V  (Online Only)
Do you often feel anxious without a clear cause, find it hard to slow down, feel emotionally overwhelmed or disconnected? These experiences often signal deeper emotions that are hard to access due to unresolved past experiences or trauma. Throughout life, especially in early relationships, we develop strategies to maintain connections and manage anxiety around our emotions. While once adaptive, these strategies often become barriers in relationships and to living authentically. By collaboratively uncovering these defensive strategies and processing underlying emotions, we can help you move toward a more connected and fulfilling life
Do you often feel anxious without a clear cause, find it hard to slow down, feel emotionally overwhelmed or disconnected? These experiences often signal deeper emotions that are hard to access due to unresolved past experiences or trauma. Throughout life, especially in early relationships, we develop strategies to maintain connections and manage anxiety around our emotions. While once adaptive, these strategies often become barriers in relationships and to living authentically. By collaboratively uncovering these defensive strategies and processing underlying emotions, we can help you move toward a more connected and fulfilling life
(450) 233-6050 View (450) 233-6050
Photo of Future-Ready Minds- The Dolphin Way - Future Ready Minds- The Dolphin Way, MD, FRCPC
Future Ready Minds- The Dolphin Way
MD, FRCPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, BC V7A
We offer assessment and treatment services to children and teens for a range of life difficulties, including but not limited to: mood disorders, anxiety, bullying and addictions (gaming).
At Future-ready Minds our team is passionate about preparing children for their future. We offer a wide range of clinical and counselling services for children, teens, and families at a number of offices located throughout Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. We also offer online (virtual) therapy services throughout BC – a convenient option that allows families to prioritize their mental health and wellness. All clinicians work under the treatment plan supervision and oversight of Psychiatrist Dr. Shimi Kang (MD, FRCPC).
We offer assessment and treatment services to children and teens for a range of life difficulties, including but not limited to: mood disorders, anxiety, bullying and addictions (gaming).
At Future-ready Minds our team is passionate about preparing children for their future. We offer a wide range of clinical and counselling services for children, teens, and families at a number of offices located throughout Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. We also offer online (virtual) therapy services throughout BC – a convenient option that allows families to prioritize their mental health and wellness. All clinicians work under the treatment plan supervision and oversight of Psychiatrist Dr. Shimi Kang (MD, FRCPC).
(705) 990-1406 View (705) 990-1406
Photo of Hoi Pan (Dada) Cheng, MSW, RSW, RCC, Counsellor
Hoi Pan (Dada) Cheng
Counsellor, MSW, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
Richmond, BC V6Y
We all experience difficulties due to many different life circumstances and we may struggle to move forward because of what happened in our past and fear for the future. I will help you develop emotional intelligence, unpack your stressors, and establish healthy coping mechanisms, that will propel you towards your ideal self and intended goals. I am trained to utilize EMDR, CBT, DBT, EFT, FBT and couples therapy. I am here to join the healing process with you by providing a safe space for you to create the tools you need to face your challenges with a renewed sense of purpose and self-efficacy.
We all experience difficulties due to many different life circumstances and we may struggle to move forward because of what happened in our past and fear for the future. I will help you develop emotional intelligence, unpack your stressors, and establish healthy coping mechanisms, that will propel you towards your ideal self and intended goals. I am trained to utilize EMDR, CBT, DBT, EFT, FBT and couples therapy. I am here to join the healing process with you by providing a safe space for you to create the tools you need to face your challenges with a renewed sense of purpose and self-efficacy.
(778) 766-4854 View (778) 766-4854
Photo of Emily Sky Fiddy, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Emily Sky Fiddy
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, BC V7E
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I'm glad you found your way here. I am a registered psychotherapist and expressive arts therapist with both classical/traditional training and also holistic in my approach as a therapist/clinician. You are not alone and psychosocial support is extremely healthy. I am a counsellor that meets you in the middle, towards your heart's journey past fragmentation towards wholeness by guiding you back to your wisest self through resource orientation and skillful approaches in dynamic interplay of supporting your needs. You are whole. You are loved and resilient. Most of all, we create a team work to find meaning and witness growth
Welcome! I'm glad you found your way here. I am a registered psychotherapist and expressive arts therapist with both classical/traditional training and also holistic in my approach as a therapist/clinician. You are not alone and psychosocial support is extremely healthy. I am a counsellor that meets you in the middle, towards your heart's journey past fragmentation towards wholeness by guiding you back to your wisest self through resource orientation and skillful approaches in dynamic interplay of supporting your needs. You are whole. You are loved and resilient. Most of all, we create a team work to find meaning and witness growth
(825) 876-0225 View (825) 876-0225
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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.