Addiction Therapists in Ancaster, ON

Photo of Samantha Clark, RSSW
Samantha Clark
Registered Social Service Worker, RSSW
Verified Verified
Ancaster, ON L9G
For the past 29 years I've had the privilege of working with individuals and families in a variety of settings who were dealing with addiction, trauma and mental health issues.
I believe that every person has a desire to be their best self and live their best life. However there are times in life when you may be met with challenges, struggles or perhaps a personal crisis. Perhaps you feel you are struggling to cope. I believe in every person’s ability to heal, grow and recover. I believe therapy is a collaborative process, where we can work together to build insight, self awareness and skills.
For the past 29 years I've had the privilege of working with individuals and families in a variety of settings who were dealing with addiction, trauma and mental health issues.
I believe that every person has a desire to be their best self and live their best life. However there are times in life when you may be met with challenges, struggles or perhaps a personal crisis. Perhaps you feel you are struggling to cope. I believe in every person’s ability to heal, grow and recover. I believe therapy is a collaborative process, where we can work together to build insight, self awareness and skills.
(365) 305-0068 View (365) 305-0068
Photo of Nathan J Cooper And Associates, CPsych, Psychologist
Nathan J Cooper And Associates
Psychologist, CPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L9K
Dr. Cooper and his associates, Joel Schramm and Maryam Rahat, offer care for individuals and couples dealing with concerns that are getting in the way of fully functioning both personally and socially. Common concerns include: anxiety, depression, substance use, procrastination, trauma, self-esteem, relationship conflict, career indecision, and many others. Maryam Rahat is focused on providing support to individuals in managing ADHD including associated issues of organization and behavioural addiction. Maryam is also fluent in Farsi and Arabic.
Dr. Cooper and his associates, Joel Schramm and Maryam Rahat, offer care for individuals and couples dealing with concerns that are getting in the way of fully functioning both personally and socially. Common concerns include: anxiety, depression, substance use, procrastination, trauma, self-esteem, relationship conflict, career indecision, and many others. Maryam Rahat is focused on providing support to individuals in managing ADHD including associated issues of organization and behavioural addiction. Maryam is also fluent in Farsi and Arabic.
(289) 768-7727 View (289) 768-7727
Photo of Patricia James - Psychotherapist And Workplace Mental Health Consultant, RP, CNP, RN, BScN, BA Psyc, Registered Psychotherapist
Patricia James - Psychotherapist And Workplace Mental Health Consultant
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CNP, RN, BScN, BA Psyc
Verified Verified
Ancaster, ON L9K
Concepts in Mental Health and Resilience offers private counselling for individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, suicidal thoughts, stress/burnout issues, and substance related issues.
As a Certified Nurse Psychotherapist (CNP) and a Registered Psychotherapist (RP), I counsel and support individuals and their families experiencing issues such as depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, trauma, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, attention deficit disorders and addiction issues. We also offer workplace mental health consultant services to help employers develop an effective employee mental health and wellness program tailored to the workplace environment. To customize a workplace mental health program from our service menu please see our Consulting Programs page for our workplace mental health programs.
Concepts in Mental Health and Resilience offers private counselling for individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, suicidal thoughts, stress/burnout issues, and substance related issues.
As a Certified Nurse Psychotherapist (CNP) and a Registered Psychotherapist (RP), I counsel and support individuals and their families experiencing issues such as depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, trauma, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, attention deficit disorders and addiction issues. We also offer workplace mental health consultant services to help employers develop an effective employee mental health and wellness program tailored to the workplace environment. To customize a workplace mental health program from our service menu please see our Consulting Programs page for our workplace mental health programs.
(226) 270-5845 View (226) 270-5845
Photo of Shannon Brown, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Shannon Brown
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L9G  (Online Only)
I have been employed in the concurrent disorders (mental health and addiction) field for over 15 years and I have worked the entire addiction spectrum. My last two roles included being a Program Manager at a drug and alcohol agency and a Team Coordinator/Social Worker with a Family Health Team where I supported patients struggling with various mental health issues and concerns. When not working, I enjoy kayaking, reading, attending various community events, playing sports, spending time at the beach, and hiking. I am really excited at the opportunity to work with and or your loved one.
I have been employed in the concurrent disorders (mental health and addiction) field for over 15 years and I have worked the entire addiction spectrum. My last two roles included being a Program Manager at a drug and alcohol agency and a Team Coordinator/Social Worker with a Family Health Team where I supported patients struggling with various mental health issues and concerns. When not working, I enjoy kayaking, reading, attending various community events, playing sports, spending time at the beach, and hiking. I am really excited at the opportunity to work with and or your loved one.
(289) 276-8317 View (289) 276-8317
Photo of Carol Benjamin, RP, CCAC, MDiv, Registered Psychotherapist
Carol Benjamin
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CCAC, MDiv
Verified Verified
Ancaster, ON L9K
I work primarily with adults and adolescents and can provide support for a variety of mental health, behavioral or emotional conditions, including Anxiety, Depression, Substance Use Disorders, Relationship Problems and PTSD.
We all face challenges from time to time. Sometimes, we are able to adequately handle the dilemma by ourselves. Sometimes, though, the problem is much too difficult, and we can use some help. At those times, it is good to know that the kind of help we need is available. It often takes courage to reach for help, particularly to participate in therapy which can feel disruptive and frightening. To be honest, it often is but can be less distressing by compassionate, non-judgmental support. I know it is not easy, but why not call for support anyhow? A safe environment was created just for you. It would be my privilege to help.
I work primarily with adults and adolescents and can provide support for a variety of mental health, behavioral or emotional conditions, including Anxiety, Depression, Substance Use Disorders, Relationship Problems and PTSD.
We all face challenges from time to time. Sometimes, we are able to adequately handle the dilemma by ourselves. Sometimes, though, the problem is much too difficult, and we can use some help. At those times, it is good to know that the kind of help we need is available. It often takes courage to reach for help, particularly to participate in therapy which can feel disruptive and frightening. To be honest, it often is but can be less distressing by compassionate, non-judgmental support. I know it is not easy, but why not call for support anyhow? A safe environment was created just for you. It would be my privilege to help.
(289) 216-6704 View (289) 216-6704
Photo of Julianna Mazzei, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Julianna Mazzei
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L9G
Are you struggling with an addiction and or low self esteem? Do you find yourself turning to your addiction especially in those moments when you are feeling down on yourself? Maybe you don’t realize your self esteem is impacting your addiction? One thing is for sure, you need some support. You're ready to address your these habits and the way you feel about yourself internally and externally. Most importantly you are ready to wake up and feel good about yourself and be in control of your desires and impulses.
Are you struggling with an addiction and or low self esteem? Do you find yourself turning to your addiction especially in those moments when you are feeling down on yourself? Maybe you don’t realize your self esteem is impacting your addiction? One thing is for sure, you need some support. You're ready to address your these habits and the way you feel about yourself internally and externally. Most importantly you are ready to wake up and feel good about yourself and be in control of your desires and impulses.
(289) 210-9431 View (289) 210-9431
Photo of Sarah Warry, ICADC, CCAC, MATS, CCTACP, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor
Sarah Warry
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, ICADC, CCAC, MATS, CCTACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L9G  (Online Only)
Addiction is a complex issue, and childhood trauma is just one contributing factor.
Are you tired of feeling controlled by negative thoughts and emotions? Do you struggle with addiction or self-destructive behaviours? Did you experience a difficult childhood or trauma(s) in life? If so, you are not alone. Studies show you are more likely to develop addiction due to childhood trauma's impact on brain development- particularly in the regions related to emotional regulation, impulse control, and reward processing. Trauma can lead to ADHD, PTSD, and maladaptive coping mechanisms- such as substance use to manage emotions and memories. This is survival mode, not dysfunction. No one wants to feel pain, and there is help.
Addiction is a complex issue, and childhood trauma is just one contributing factor.
Are you tired of feeling controlled by negative thoughts and emotions? Do you struggle with addiction or self-destructive behaviours? Did you experience a difficult childhood or trauma(s) in life? If so, you are not alone. Studies show you are more likely to develop addiction due to childhood trauma's impact on brain development- particularly in the regions related to emotional regulation, impulse control, and reward processing. Trauma can lead to ADHD, PTSD, and maladaptive coping mechanisms- such as substance use to manage emotions and memories. This is survival mode, not dysfunction. No one wants to feel pain, and there is help.
(365) 675-5015 View (365) 675-5015
Photo of Audrey Barta, MA, BScH, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Audrey Barta
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, BScH
Verified Verified
Ancaster, ON L9G
I have experience working with folks in the queer community, as well as individuals who have lived experience with trauma and/or addiction.
Healing looks different for everyone, and that is why we begin with a full understanding of your experiences and the context in which they occur. I work collaboratively with you to explore those meanings and help you gain agency over these narratives to live a life with more space for compassion and curiosity in mind, body, and experience. Whatever you are working through, I respect you as the expert. My role is not to analyze, pathologize, or label you, it is to understand you as your whole self, including your experiences, identities, values, and how you have been impacted by the current systems that are set in place.
I have experience working with folks in the queer community, as well as individuals who have lived experience with trauma and/or addiction.
Healing looks different for everyone, and that is why we begin with a full understanding of your experiences and the context in which they occur. I work collaboratively with you to explore those meanings and help you gain agency over these narratives to live a life with more space for compassion and curiosity in mind, body, and experience. Whatever you are working through, I respect you as the expert. My role is not to analyze, pathologize, or label you, it is to understand you as your whole self, including your experiences, identities, values, and how you have been impacted by the current systems that are set in place.
(289) 276-0568 View (289) 276-0568
Photo of Belinda N. Marazzato, RN, BScN, MACP(c), EMDR, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Belinda N. Marazzato
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RN, BScN, MACP(c), EMDR
Verified Verified
Ancaster, ON L9K
Life is unpredictable. We can get thrown curve balls at any stage of life. I see myself as someone who can help navigate stress, life transitions and coping with loss. Even in the darkest of times, I truly believe that people are resilient. I want to meet my clients where they are at, to help them be kinder to themselves and to support them as they make courageous steps towards change and personal growth. As a certified addiction counselor and trained in trauma sensitive EMDR, I believe in a holistic approach where a balanced mind-body connection is important to our over all well-being.
Life is unpredictable. We can get thrown curve balls at any stage of life. I see myself as someone who can help navigate stress, life transitions and coping with loss. Even in the darkest of times, I truly believe that people are resilient. I want to meet my clients where they are at, to help them be kinder to themselves and to support them as they make courageous steps towards change and personal growth. As a certified addiction counselor and trained in trauma sensitive EMDR, I believe in a holistic approach where a balanced mind-body connection is important to our over all well-being.
(289) 236-1278 View (289) 236-1278
Photo of Rachel Okoro, MSc, Dip HE, BSC, Registered Psychotherapist
Rachel Okoro
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, Dip HE, BSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L9G  (Online Only)
I dedicated 17 years of my career to the mental health field, initially as a mental health nurse then transitioned to psychotherapy. Along this transformative journey, i developed a passion for addiction treatment, and trauma therapy, depression, and anxiety. My current clients say my skills I offer are practical and helpful! I am open to working with people who are struggling, feeling stuck, or emotionally tangled! Or just feel to vent, then we figure out what areas are keeping up from going forward. I would like to add value and see my clients flourish. No need to put up a facade, am open to help and most of all listen.
I dedicated 17 years of my career to the mental health field, initially as a mental health nurse then transitioned to psychotherapy. Along this transformative journey, i developed a passion for addiction treatment, and trauma therapy, depression, and anxiety. My current clients say my skills I offer are practical and helpful! I am open to working with people who are struggling, feeling stuck, or emotionally tangled! Or just feel to vent, then we figure out what areas are keeping up from going forward. I would like to add value and see my clients flourish. No need to put up a facade, am open to help and most of all listen.
(289) 272-9038 View (289) 272-9038
Photo of Taye Adeniyi - Renewed Mindset Counselling and Psychotherapy, BA, MIDST, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Renewed Mindset Counselling and Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, BA, MIDST, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ancaster, ON L9G
Challenges such as low self worth, anxiety, depression, anger, loneliness, trauma, addiction, & grief provide an opportunity to grow. If you are feeling stuck in the same pattern of thinking and struggling with your personal and interpersonal relationships, it's time to change the way you think about yourself, your circumstances, and those around you. My passion is to empower individuals, couples, and families to develop new pathways of thinking, establish deeper connections and overcome obstacles.
Challenges such as low self worth, anxiety, depression, anger, loneliness, trauma, addiction, & grief provide an opportunity to grow. If you are feeling stuck in the same pattern of thinking and struggling with your personal and interpersonal relationships, it's time to change the way you think about yourself, your circumstances, and those around you. My passion is to empower individuals, couples, and families to develop new pathways of thinking, establish deeper connections and overcome obstacles.
(289) 236-2379 View (289) 236-2379
Photo of Audrey Aguanno, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Audrey Aguanno
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L9G
Sometimes life can be difficult and these challenges can cause a sense of suffering in ourselves and those we care about. It can all feel overwhelming and exhausting, making it difficult to know what to do or where to turn for help. It takes courage to reach out for support so that you don’t have to suffer alone. Counselling can provide the opportunity to learn to share and process one’s struggles in a safe and non-judgemental space. Learning how to foster self-directed kindness and self-compassion can help nurture an individual’s personal growth and resilience.
Sometimes life can be difficult and these challenges can cause a sense of suffering in ourselves and those we care about. It can all feel overwhelming and exhausting, making it difficult to know what to do or where to turn for help. It takes courage to reach out for support so that you don’t have to suffer alone. Counselling can provide the opportunity to learn to share and process one’s struggles in a safe and non-judgemental space. Learning how to foster self-directed kindness and self-compassion can help nurture an individual’s personal growth and resilience.
(289) 275-8978 View (289) 275-8978
Photo of Holly Davis, MA, MACP, BA Hons, EMDR, Registered Psychotherapist
Holly Davis
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MACP, BA Hons, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L9G
I practice somatic EMDR and trauma-informed psychotherapy, which includes a mind-body inclusion to wellness, counselling for those who have been impacted by interpersonal trauma, loss, separation, parenting and other forms of life adversity. We all need connection in our lives. Connection to our loved ones, friends, ourselves and our therapist. As someone who is easy to talk with, I provide counselling to those who are struggling with life transitions, challenging circumstances, stress, burnout, generalized anxiety, depression, OCD and processing trauma from their present or past. Through a compassionate, collaborative approach, .
I practice somatic EMDR and trauma-informed psychotherapy, which includes a mind-body inclusion to wellness, counselling for those who have been impacted by interpersonal trauma, loss, separation, parenting and other forms of life adversity. We all need connection in our lives. Connection to our loved ones, friends, ourselves and our therapist. As someone who is easy to talk with, I provide counselling to those who are struggling with life transitions, challenging circumstances, stress, burnout, generalized anxiety, depression, OCD and processing trauma from their present or past. Through a compassionate, collaborative approach, .
(289) 512-2747 View (289) 512-2747
Photo of Stacey Leger, MSW, RSW, AccFM, (OAFM), Registered Social Worker
Stacey Leger
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, AccFM, (OAFM)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L9K
My belief is that therapy can create an opportunity for you to become an active participant in your life. Each session offers you the time to reflect on your values, focus on your goals and gain new perspective on challenging issues. Dedicating time to yourself, for yourself is the cornerstone to emotional well-being. In order to effectively support you in achieving your goals, I use an evidence-based and integrated approach to the therapeutic process. I utilize theory and skills from the following modalities; Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Emotional Focused Therapy and Emotion Focused FamilyTherapy
My belief is that therapy can create an opportunity for you to become an active participant in your life. Each session offers you the time to reflect on your values, focus on your goals and gain new perspective on challenging issues. Dedicating time to yourself, for yourself is the cornerstone to emotional well-being. In order to effectively support you in achieving your goals, I use an evidence-based and integrated approach to the therapeutic process. I utilize theory and skills from the following modalities; Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Emotional Focused Therapy and Emotion Focused FamilyTherapy
(365) 601-9597 View (365) 601-9597
Photo of Maurisha Marie Dolson - Insight Counselling Therapy , RP, RSSW, Registered Psychotherapist
Insight Counselling Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RSSW
Verified Verified
Ancaster, ON L9K
My passion is to help people regain their inner peace and happiness to live a pleasurable fulfilled life. Life is full of ups, downs and challenges that we are often not prepared for. It does not matter how many times you get knocked down, but the what matters comes from how many times you get up. I believe the greatest accomplishment is who you become while picking yourself back up. Each new day gives you a fresh start to get back on track and to have the courage to rebuild yourself the way you desire. In therapy we would work collaboratively to address your needs and to determine how best to meet these needs.
My passion is to help people regain their inner peace and happiness to live a pleasurable fulfilled life. Life is full of ups, downs and challenges that we are often not prepared for. It does not matter how many times you get knocked down, but the what matters comes from how many times you get up. I believe the greatest accomplishment is who you become while picking yourself back up. Each new day gives you a fresh start to get back on track and to have the courage to rebuild yourself the way you desire. In therapy we would work collaboratively to address your needs and to determine how best to meet these needs.
(289) 217-9871 View (289) 217-9871
Photo of Kelly Thordarson, BA, BScN, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelly Thordarson
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, BScN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L9G
"Sometimes when it feels that life is falling apart, it is actually falling into place". During our life's journey all of us experience times of loss, despair, and loneliness. During these occasions we are often unable to see the patterns we need to change. I have previously spent many years practicing as a nurse. I came to realize that healing the body was less meaningful if the mind is struggling with personal pain.
"Sometimes when it feels that life is falling apart, it is actually falling into place". During our life's journey all of us experience times of loss, despair, and loneliness. During these occasions we are often unable to see the patterns we need to change. I have previously spent many years practicing as a nurse. I came to realize that healing the body was less meaningful if the mind is struggling with personal pain.
(289) 512-2612 View (289) 512-2612
Photo of Bina Di Livio, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Bina Di Livio
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L9K
We all have within us a profound sense of knowing that helps us to live the life we ought to be living. When our lives are not aligning with this inner wisdom, we experience isolation, depression, and feel unfulfilled, stuck, and bored. We find ourselves in old repetitive patterns, jobs, and relationships that are no longer serving us. I can help you address these issues and guide you to explore the deepest parts of your self so that you can begin to live your authentic life.
We all have within us a profound sense of knowing that helps us to live the life we ought to be living. When our lives are not aligning with this inner wisdom, we experience isolation, depression, and feel unfulfilled, stuck, and bored. We find ourselves in old repetitive patterns, jobs, and relationships that are no longer serving us. I can help you address these issues and guide you to explore the deepest parts of your self so that you can begin to live your authentic life.
(647) 560-0215 View (647) 560-0215
Photo of Melissa Clews-Hunt, MSc, RP, RMFT-SM, Registered Psychotherapist
Melissa Clews-Hunt
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP, RMFT-SM
Verified Verified
Ancaster, ON L9K
Are you looking to strengthen your relationships? Do you want to understand yourself better? When you are in nature do you feel rejuvenated? For nearly 20 years I have been providing individual, couple, and family therapy. I also provide clinical supervision for therapists. I am a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario, and a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist & Approved Supervisor/Mentor with CACFT. In addition to my clinical training and experience, my specialty is including nature in the work. For some that could be addressing eco anxiety concerns, for some that could be having a phone session while walking in a forest.
Are you looking to strengthen your relationships? Do you want to understand yourself better? When you are in nature do you feel rejuvenated? For nearly 20 years I have been providing individual, couple, and family therapy. I also provide clinical supervision for therapists. I am a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario, and a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist & Approved Supervisor/Mentor with CACFT. In addition to my clinical training and experience, my specialty is including nature in the work. For some that could be addressing eco anxiety concerns, for some that could be having a phone session while walking in a forest.
(226) 407-5590 View (226) 407-5590
Photo of Brown Jodi - Turning Point Counselling Centre, MACP, CCC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Turning Point Counselling Centre
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L8S
"Don't mistaken what you had to do or become too survive with who you are or what you are capable of achieving". If you seek a safe and validating space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and life experiences, you have found the right counsellor. As a trauma-focused therapist, I work with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, BPD, sexual harm, and all forms of mental health. My passion is helping youth, couples, and first responders, but I work with clients from all walks of life. I believe the therapeutic relationship is instrumental in reaching your therapy goals. I offer a free 10 mn phone call.
"Don't mistaken what you had to do or become too survive with who you are or what you are capable of achieving". If you seek a safe and validating space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and life experiences, you have found the right counsellor. As a trauma-focused therapist, I work with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, BPD, sexual harm, and all forms of mental health. My passion is helping youth, couples, and first responders, but I work with clients from all walks of life. I believe the therapeutic relationship is instrumental in reaching your therapy goals. I offer a free 10 mn phone call.
(844) 857-3188 View (844) 857-3188
Photo of Shannon Stach, BASc, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Stach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BASc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L9K
Do you struggle with unhelpful thoughts or overwhelming emotions? Are you constantly worrying or putting yourself down? Are you struggling with things from your past that are influencing your present, or just struggling day-to-day? I understand that starting counselling can be a difficult and sometimes scary endeavour. If you are newly pregnant or have just had a baby, are struggling with anxiety, lack of motivation, sadness or depression, relationship issues, unresolved trauma, feeling overly stressed or stuck in your life, among other things, I can help.
Do you struggle with unhelpful thoughts or overwhelming emotions? Are you constantly worrying or putting yourself down? Are you struggling with things from your past that are influencing your present, or just struggling day-to-day? I understand that starting counselling can be a difficult and sometimes scary endeavour. If you are newly pregnant or have just had a baby, are struggling with anxiety, lack of motivation, sadness or depression, relationship issues, unresolved trauma, feeling overly stressed or stuck in your life, among other things, I can help.
(365) 605-5470 View (365) 605-5470
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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.