Addiction Therapists in Burlington, ON

Photo of Stephanie Black, RSW, MSc, Registered Social Worker
Stephanie Black
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSc
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7N
I have spent the past many years supporting individuals who struggle with both mental health and addictions challenges.
Hi there, and nice to meet you! For those who know me, they know me as someone they can trust and depend upon. They know that I provide a non-judgemental, safe space for them to be themselves. A space that allows them to feel their emotions without guilt or shame. I have spent more than 20 years supporting and empowering those around me to achieve their full potential and break down any barriers that may stand in their way. I have made it my life's work to be there when it counts. And, I'd love the opportunity to be there for you.
I have spent the past many years supporting individuals who struggle with both mental health and addictions challenges.
Hi there, and nice to meet you! For those who know me, they know me as someone they can trust and depend upon. They know that I provide a non-judgemental, safe space for them to be themselves. A space that allows them to feel their emotions without guilt or shame. I have spent more than 20 years supporting and empowering those around me to achieve their full potential and break down any barriers that may stand in their way. I have made it my life's work to be there when it counts. And, I'd love the opportunity to be there for you.
(289) 210-8079 View (289) 210-8079
Photo of Shannon Brown, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Shannon Brown
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7T  (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 Lee-Anne Morrow - Calm Mind Co, RN, BscN, BA
Calm Mind Co
RN, BscN, BA
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7T
I provide clients a place to share and feel better. When life is hard, overwhelming or you feel lost, I provide effective treatment and support. I support those experiencing anxiety and/or depression, a reliance on substances, parental mood changes, and difficult relationships, among other issues. I believe strongly that we are all equally worthy of feeling well and of living a joyful life. I have experience working with children, families during their prenatal/postpartum journey and adults with mood disorders and addiction concerns.
I provide clients a place to share and feel better. When life is hard, overwhelming or you feel lost, I provide effective treatment and support. I support those experiencing anxiety and/or depression, a reliance on substances, parental mood changes, and difficult relationships, among other issues. I believe strongly that we are all equally worthy of feeling well and of living a joyful life. I have experience working with children, families during their prenatal/postpartum journey and adults with mood disorders and addiction concerns.
(365) 598-5633 View (365) 598-5633
Photo of Anya Moon, PhD, Psychologist
Anya Moon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7L
I enjoy working with adults struggling to make and maintain behavioral change in areas such as substance use, addictive behaviors, anxiety, and depression. I also work with clients interested in enhancing interpersonal functioning and learning skills for navigating relationships. I believe the therapeutic relationship is key to change, and I emphasize and cultivate an environment of collaboration, mutual respect, and compassion.
I enjoy working with adults struggling to make and maintain behavioral change in areas such as substance use, addictive behaviors, anxiety, and depression. I also work with clients interested in enhancing interpersonal functioning and learning skills for navigating relationships. I believe the therapeutic relationship is key to change, and I emphasize and cultivate an environment of collaboration, mutual respect, and compassion.
(289) 274-5033 View (289) 274-5033
Photo of Justin Hamilton, SSW, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Justin Hamilton
Registered Social Worker, SSW, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7L
I have lived experience with addiction.
Welcome. Good mental health is essential to a happy life. It affects the depth and quality of all our relationships. It allows us to love our lives and the people closest to us deeply. Living life with a sense of purpose and meaning is essential. Sometimes, things can get in the way, and we have trouble getting around them. There is a way to get past almost anything. With effort and determination, I have witnessed some fantastic breakthroughs and life changes. If you're willing, a better life awaits.
I have lived experience with addiction.
Welcome. Good mental health is essential to a happy life. It affects the depth and quality of all our relationships. It allows us to love our lives and the people closest to us deeply. Living life with a sense of purpose and meaning is essential. Sometimes, things can get in the way, and we have trouble getting around them. There is a way to get past almost anything. With effort and determination, I have witnessed some fantastic breakthroughs and life changes. If you're willing, a better life awaits.
(289) 302-5235 View (289) 302-5235
Photo of Anna P. Pita, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Anna P. Pita
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7M  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping individuals in crisis that struggle with mental health and addiction issues.
I am a registered social worker and psychotherapist with over 35 years of experience, believing positive change is possible. I have worked as a leader in both the children's mental health and adult sector for many years. I am passionate about helping people achieve the goals that are most important to them. Everyone has potential, every child and family can fulfill their dreams. Call me today to get started on the journey for wellness again!
I specialize in helping individuals in crisis that struggle with mental health and addiction issues.
I am a registered social worker and psychotherapist with over 35 years of experience, believing positive change is possible. I have worked as a leader in both the children's mental health and adult sector for many years. I am passionate about helping people achieve the goals that are most important to them. Everyone has potential, every child and family can fulfill their dreams. Call me today to get started on the journey for wellness again!
(289) 273-7843 View (289) 273-7843
Photo of Carrie Woodcock, BA, ADS, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Carrie Woodcock
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, ADS, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7L
My services include counselling individuals and couples on a variety of presenting issues including addiction, substance use/abuse, family impact, mental health, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, anger management, relationships, communication and healthy coping strategies etc.
WELCOMING NEW CLIENTS! Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious and off balance? Have you or a loved one struggled with addiction, low mood, difficulty thinking, concentrating or sleep? Do you find your relationship with self and others is strained? You are not alone. As a Registered Psychotherapist, I view my role to support individuals, couples and families to explore, navigate and develop healthy skills and strategies in wellness and healthy living. My approach is client-centered, trauma informed, mindful and solution focused. I draw upon a diverse professional education and training with more than 22 years of experience.
My services include counselling individuals and couples on a variety of presenting issues including addiction, substance use/abuse, family impact, mental health, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, anger management, relationships, communication and healthy coping strategies etc.
WELCOMING NEW CLIENTS! Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious and off balance? Have you or a loved one struggled with addiction, low mood, difficulty thinking, concentrating or sleep? Do you find your relationship with self and others is strained? You are not alone. As a Registered Psychotherapist, I view my role to support individuals, couples and families to explore, navigate and develop healthy skills and strategies in wellness and healthy living. My approach is client-centered, trauma informed, mindful and solution focused. I draw upon a diverse professional education and training with more than 22 years of experience.
(289) 274-8500 View (289) 274-8500
Photo of Therapywvan Inc. - Van Vu, MSW, RSW, CCAC, Registered Social Worker
Therapywvan Inc. - Van Vu
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CCAC
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7P  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I support individuals with experiences of emotional disorders, trauma and addiction, grief and loss, and work with families experiencing high conflict separation/divorce.
Whether this is your first time or your return to therapy, I offer a flexible therapeutic approach that is client-centered and collaborative. I take a compassionate and thoughtful approach to ensure that I understand your concerns and your hopes for therapy. My therapeutic style is well-paced, warm, and caring. I use a dynamic combination of evidence-based treatment approaches and I incorporate practical and experiential treatment activities to support positive treatment outcomes.
I support individuals with experiences of emotional disorders, trauma and addiction, grief and loss, and work with families experiencing high conflict separation/divorce.
Whether this is your first time or your return to therapy, I offer a flexible therapeutic approach that is client-centered and collaborative. I take a compassionate and thoughtful approach to ensure that I understand your concerns and your hopes for therapy. My therapeutic style is well-paced, warm, and caring. I use a dynamic combination of evidence-based treatment approaches and I incorporate practical and experiential treatment activities to support positive treatment outcomes.
(365) 305-0397 View (365) 305-0397
Photo of Angus Coll-Smith, BA, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Angus Coll-Smith
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7R
I'm a registered Social Worker who has been in the mental health & addiction field for over 20 years working with both youth and adults in treatment, prevention and harm reduction settings.
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with addiction issues and/or anxiety and mood disorders. I really enjoy working with ‘stuck’ clients. Those people who know they want or need change but aren’t sure how to get there. You are not broken, and you do not need to be fixed. You might be feeling a little lost though. Let me serve as a guide to walk with you and show you some possible ways out. You don't need to commit to any long term therapy or all the 'what ifs' at this point. All you need to do is reach out and make that first connection. Let's have a conversation about what's going on.
I'm a registered Social Worker who has been in the mental health & addiction field for over 20 years working with both youth and adults in treatment, prevention and harm reduction settings.
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with addiction issues and/or anxiety and mood disorders. I really enjoy working with ‘stuck’ clients. Those people who know they want or need change but aren’t sure how to get there. You are not broken, and you do not need to be fixed. You might be feeling a little lost though. Let me serve as a guide to walk with you and show you some possible ways out. You don't need to commit to any long term therapy or all the 'what ifs' at this point. All you need to do is reach out and make that first connection. Let's have a conversation about what's going on.
(365) 650-6150 View (365) 650-6150
Photo of Anne Vickers, BA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Anne Vickers
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RP
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7R
Welcome! I am an experienced psychotherapist of 21 years with experience in mental health, addiction, physical health trauma and family counselling. I work from a person-centred philosophy believing that strength lies within everyone, though sometimes it is hard to find. I work with clients in both short and longer-term capacities using a variety of methodologies. Most importantly, I am personable and respectful of the path you have travelled prior to initiating counselling. I look forward to meeting you and assisting you in establishing goals towards your personal growth.
Welcome! I am an experienced psychotherapist of 21 years with experience in mental health, addiction, physical health trauma and family counselling. I work from a person-centred philosophy believing that strength lies within everyone, though sometimes it is hard to find. I work with clients in both short and longer-term capacities using a variety of methodologies. Most importantly, I am personable and respectful of the path you have travelled prior to initiating counselling. I look forward to meeting you and assisting you in establishing goals towards your personal growth.
(365) 800-1989 View (365) 800-1989
Photo of Julia Sormaz, MA, BA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Julia Sormaz
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7N
I support clients struggling with addictions, behavioural concerns, family concerns and all mental health challenges.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS My name is Julia Sormaz and I have a desire for supporting individuals from a client-centered approach, meeting clients where they're at and working in collaboration to provide effective help. I have a masters degree in counselling Psychology, Bachelor degree in Psychology and Post-Graduate Certificate in addictions and mental health. I have extensive experience working with individuals who have been struggling with substance use, behavioural concerns, life transitions such as loss, becoming a new mom and relationship challenges, family and parenting challenges and mental health.
I support clients struggling with addictions, behavioural concerns, family concerns and all mental health challenges.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS My name is Julia Sormaz and I have a desire for supporting individuals from a client-centered approach, meeting clients where they're at and working in collaboration to provide effective help. I have a masters degree in counselling Psychology, Bachelor degree in Psychology and Post-Graduate Certificate in addictions and mental health. I have extensive experience working with individuals who have been struggling with substance use, behavioural concerns, life transitions such as loss, becoming a new mom and relationship challenges, family and parenting challenges and mental health.
(289) 975-8785 View (289) 975-8785
Photo of Connie Marangwanda - Connie Marangwanda, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Connie Marangwanda
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7R  (Online Only)
DBT, CBT, ACT, IFS, EMDR, mindfulness (informed); developmental services, forensic, addictions, children's mental health, adult mental health, medical social work (adult and pediatric), clinical consultation for clinicians, workshops, intuitive/spiritual, coaching and groups.
Experience in working with women, children, men, couples, families and agencies, I have certificates from U of T in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy and Concurrent Disorders as well as training in EMDR, CBT, mindfulness/meditation, ACT, IFS, solution focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, emotion focused, narrative therapy, experiential therapies and addiction treatment to name a few. My approaches are trauma informed. I am able to offer thorough assessments and treatment that aim to heal deeply rooted emotional and behavioural patterns that might be keeping you stuck.
DBT, CBT, ACT, IFS, EMDR, mindfulness (informed); developmental services, forensic, addictions, children's mental health, adult mental health, medical social work (adult and pediatric), clinical consultation for clinicians, workshops, intuitive/spiritual, coaching and groups.
Experience in working with women, children, men, couples, families and agencies, I have certificates from U of T in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy and Concurrent Disorders as well as training in EMDR, CBT, mindfulness/meditation, ACT, IFS, solution focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, emotion focused, narrative therapy, experiential therapies and addiction treatment to name a few. My approaches are trauma informed. I am able to offer thorough assessments and treatment that aim to heal deeply rooted emotional and behavioural patterns that might be keeping you stuck.
(289) 274-4882 View (289) 274-4882
Photo of Brian Janes, CSAT, ICADC, MBA, Registered Psychotherapist
Brian Janes
Registered Psychotherapist, CSAT, ICADC, MBA
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7L  (Online Only)
As a registered psychotherapist (RP), I work with those struggling with addictions, relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma and other challenges. I am a certified sex addiction therapist (CSAT) and am trained to help those struggling with compulsive sexual behaviour. I am also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counsellor (ICADC), and offer services to help clients break free from the downward spiral of addiction to drugs, alcohol and other addictive behaviours. Additionally, with an MBA and several years working in the corporate world, I have a unique understanding of the pressures faced by those struggling in today's demanding work environment.
As a registered psychotherapist (RP), I work with those struggling with addictions, relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma and other challenges. I am a certified sex addiction therapist (CSAT) and am trained to help those struggling with compulsive sexual behaviour. I am also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counsellor (ICADC), and offer services to help clients break free from the downward spiral of addiction to drugs, alcohol and other addictive behaviours. Additionally, with an MBA and several years working in the corporate world, I have a unique understanding of the pressures faced by those struggling in today's demanding work environment.
(905) 746-7428 View (905) 746-7428
Photo of Sean Mooney, RSSW, Registered Social Worker
Sean Mooney
Registered Social Worker, RSSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7L  (Online Only)
Are you court-mandated or have you been recommended to seek treatment for anger, parenting, addiction, or abuse? Acknowledging that you need help and taking the step to seek it can be challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. I am here to guide you through this journey with compassion and support. As a certified Caring Dads Facilitator, with specialized training in anger management and addiction treatment, I can help you navigate these challenges and work toward positive change in your life. Let’s take this important step together.
Are you court-mandated or have you been recommended to seek treatment for anger, parenting, addiction, or abuse? Acknowledging that you need help and taking the step to seek it can be challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. I am here to guide you through this journey with compassion and support. As a certified Caring Dads Facilitator, with specialized training in anger management and addiction treatment, I can help you navigate these challenges and work toward positive change in your life. Let’s take this important step together.
(289) 275-6558 View (289) 275-6558
Photo of Andrew Sangster, BA Hon, CCAC, ADMH, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor
Andrew Sangster
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, BA Hon, CCAC, ADMH
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7L
With regards to substance or behavioral addictions, whether you are interested in harm reduction, abstinence or relapse prevention, together we will develop solid plans to help you reach your goals and maintain them.
I've spent the last 10 years working with individuals struggling with mental health and addiction concerns. I've worked with both adults and youth in diverse settings including residential treatment, community based agencies, shelters, hospitals and clinics. This has provided me with invaluable first hand experience working with both the individuals struggling as well as the countless service providers including but not limited to doctors, nurses, child protection services and probation.
With regards to substance or behavioral addictions, whether you are interested in harm reduction, abstinence or relapse prevention, together we will develop solid plans to help you reach your goals and maintain them.
I've spent the last 10 years working with individuals struggling with mental health and addiction concerns. I've worked with both adults and youth in diverse settings including residential treatment, community based agencies, shelters, hospitals and clinics. This has provided me with invaluable first hand experience working with both the individuals struggling as well as the countless service providers including but not limited to doctors, nurses, child protection services and probation.
(289) 302-8335 View (289) 302-8335
Photo of Glen Watkinson, MDiv, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Glen Watkinson
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7L  (Online Only)
My areas of clinical care include trauma, abuse, violence, PTSD and C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, dissociation, substance use and addictions, shame, anger, grief, relationships, sexual and gender identity, and spiritual abuse, deconstruction, and integration.
I believe that vitality and the chance to flourish happens when it’s safe enough to honestly be yourself. I consider it a privilege to accompany people through their pain, coping, self-discovery, healing, transformation, and joy. For the last 15 years, I have served in my community's social services field, working alongside people living through trauma, substance use and addictions, poverty, mental health dual-diagnoses, developmental disabilities, and criminality.
My areas of clinical care include trauma, abuse, violence, PTSD and C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, dissociation, substance use and addictions, shame, anger, grief, relationships, sexual and gender identity, and spiritual abuse, deconstruction, and integration.
I believe that vitality and the chance to flourish happens when it’s safe enough to honestly be yourself. I consider it a privilege to accompany people through their pain, coping, self-discovery, healing, transformation, and joy. For the last 15 years, I have served in my community's social services field, working alongside people living through trauma, substance use and addictions, poverty, mental health dual-diagnoses, developmental disabilities, and criminality.
(289) 274-2492 View (289) 274-2492
Photo of Catherine Howson, MA, RP, CCAC, Registered Psychotherapist
Catherine Howson
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7L  (Online Only)
Furthermore, I bring over 25 years of experience working in the fields of addiction and trauma.
I am passionate about working with people who are seeking professional and compassionate support to address areas of distress in their lives - including anxiety, depression, grief, stress and substance use concerns, etc. I believe that people are generally resilient and, at times, require support to inventory their coping skills - by tweaking existing skills and/or adding new tools to their coping toolbox - in order to live balanced lives. I can provide treatment for diagnosed or suspected acute trauma, mood and anxiety disorders.
Furthermore, I bring over 25 years of experience working in the fields of addiction and trauma.
I am passionate about working with people who are seeking professional and compassionate support to address areas of distress in their lives - including anxiety, depression, grief, stress and substance use concerns, etc. I believe that people are generally resilient and, at times, require support to inventory their coping skills - by tweaking existing skills and/or adding new tools to their coping toolbox - in order to live balanced lives. I can provide treatment for diagnosed or suspected acute trauma, mood and anxiety disorders.
(289) 272-7490 View (289) 272-7490
Photo of Maor Bernshtein - Maor Bernshtein, MSW, RSW, Psychotherapist, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Maor Bernshtein, MSW, RSW, Psychotherapist
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7M
Hi! I'm Maor, a therapist that helps people get "un-stuck". Living with Addiction, BPD, Trauma, Anxiety or Depression can feel like we're lost. Life feels like it revolves around our pain. The world around us doesn't make sense anymore, and nothing we try seems to help. I get it. I get how painful that can be. I also know that a part of you wants to live life to the fullest, to not be consumed by that pain. I'm here to help you find a life of stability, meaning & joy. I offer compassion, curiosity, a touch of humor, using out-of-box thinking to make each session personalized, intensive, and thorough. Remember, better is possible.
Hi! I'm Maor, a therapist that helps people get "un-stuck". Living with Addiction, BPD, Trauma, Anxiety or Depression can feel like we're lost. Life feels like it revolves around our pain. The world around us doesn't make sense anymore, and nothing we try seems to help. I get it. I get how painful that can be. I also know that a part of you wants to live life to the fullest, to not be consumed by that pain. I'm here to help you find a life of stability, meaning & joy. I offer compassion, curiosity, a touch of humor, using out-of-box thinking to make each session personalized, intensive, and thorough. Remember, better is possible.
(365) 476-2476 View (365) 476-2476
Photo of Heidi Klett, MSW, RSW, CCAC, Registered Social Worker
Heidi Klett
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CCAC
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7L  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma, anxiety and addiction.
Are you ready to heal from trauma, anxiety or addiction? Are your ruminating thoughts and constant worry overwhelming you? Are you tired of having to push down your needs and compromise yourself to feel accepted by others? Has your critical self voice made you believe you are not enough? Are your emotions overtaking you making you feel confused about who you are and what you need? Have you turned to substances or avoidance behaviors to cope with stress? I want you to know, healing from these patterns is absolutely possible! Imagine a life where these struggles no longer occur and you feel safe, secure and confident in yourself.
I specialize in trauma, anxiety and addiction.
Are you ready to heal from trauma, anxiety or addiction? Are your ruminating thoughts and constant worry overwhelming you? Are you tired of having to push down your needs and compromise yourself to feel accepted by others? Has your critical self voice made you believe you are not enough? Are your emotions overtaking you making you feel confused about who you are and what you need? Have you turned to substances or avoidance behaviors to cope with stress? I want you to know, healing from these patterns is absolutely possible! Imagine a life where these struggles no longer occur and you feel safe, secure and confident in yourself.
(548) 290-7677 View (548) 290-7677
Photo of Jodi Rouah - Counselling & Co. , Registered Social Worker
Counselling & Co.
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7L
We support clients through addiction, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, neurodivergent identities, parenting, perinatal mental health, relationship issues, stress and burn-out.
Are you feeling disconnected from the people in your life? Have you lost your sense of self? Here at Counselling and Co., we understand how lonely that can feel. When circumstances change unexpectedly, loss and betrayals sideline us, or loved ones let us down, it can feel overwhelming and uncertainty can creep in leaving us unsure how to navigate next steps. At Counselling and Co., we believe in connection, compassion, and community lead to clarity and healing. Our team of therapists are like a village of supporters, here to help you connect more deeply with yourself and your loved ones through compassion and understanding.
We support clients through addiction, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, neurodivergent identities, parenting, perinatal mental health, relationship issues, stress and burn-out.
Are you feeling disconnected from the people in your life? Have you lost your sense of self? Here at Counselling and Co., we understand how lonely that can feel. When circumstances change unexpectedly, loss and betrayals sideline us, or loved ones let us down, it can feel overwhelming and uncertainty can creep in leaving us unsure how to navigate next steps. At Counselling and Co., we believe in connection, compassion, and community lead to clarity and healing. Our team of therapists are like a village of supporters, here to help you connect more deeply with yourself and your loved ones through compassion and understanding.
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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.