Addiction Therapists in Gananoque, ON
Carol Chafe
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CPGC, CYC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gananoque, ON K7G
My clinical experience includes mental health and addiction, in particular behavioural addictions including, technology overuse, gambling, shopping, food and video gaming.
Are you struggling to make changes in your life? I have the privilege of meeting people at a pivotal point in their lives where they are seeking support to face their challenges and make beneficial changes. I can support you making the changes necessary to improve your life. Anxiety, depression, stress, relationships, are issues that may interfere with your ability to live your most satisfying life. Working together we can explore, and validate your thoughts and feelings in a safe supportive environment. I have over 25 years experience working with children, youth and adults in mental health and addiction.
My clinical experience includes mental health and addiction, in particular behavioural addictions including, technology overuse, gambling, shopping, food and video gaming.
Are you struggling to make changes in your life? I have the privilege of meeting people at a pivotal point in their lives where they are seeking support to face their challenges and make beneficial changes. I can support you making the changes necessary to improve your life. Anxiety, depression, stress, relationships, are issues that may interfere with your ability to live your most satisfying life. Working together we can explore, and validate your thoughts and feelings in a safe supportive environment. I have over 25 years experience working with children, youth and adults in mental health and addiction.
Joanne Roston
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gananoque, ON K7G (Online Only)
I have 28 years in private practice and public service co-creating well-being with all ages and relationship configurations. Addiction, drug culture & use; the blues, depression & anxiety; violence & social justice; family and personal crises; LGBTQ issues; young adult & menopausal transition times; & all aspects of relationships both inter- and intra-personal are my areas of interest and proficiency. Group trainings are available to address any of these issues.
I have 28 years in private practice and public service co-creating well-being with all ages and relationship configurations. Addiction, drug culture & use; the blues, depression & anxiety; violence & social justice; family and personal crises; LGBTQ issues; young adult & menopausal transition times; & all aspects of relationships both inter- and intra-personal are my areas of interest and proficiency. Group trainings are available to address any of these issues.
Annabelle Williams
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CCAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gananoque, ON K7G
Clients that are seeking a partnership and collaborative care. Together we can explore new avenues to support your journey when encountering difficult times or choices in life. We will develop a realistic individual treatment plan that is all about your goals, needs and future. Together we will reinforce positive feelings and behaviours to lead to a healthier life. I will provide client education, implementation of therapeutic techniques including up to date best practice modalities. It is important that you as the client are the Captain of the vessel, I am the Compass and it is all about the safe journey.
Clients that are seeking a partnership and collaborative care. Together we can explore new avenues to support your journey when encountering difficult times or choices in life. We will develop a realistic individual treatment plan that is all about your goals, needs and future. Together we will reinforce positive feelings and behaviours to lead to a healthier life. I will provide client education, implementation of therapeutic techniques including up to date best practice modalities. It is important that you as the client are the Captain of the vessel, I am the Compass and it is all about the safe journey.
Kimberly Blair Kent
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gananoque, ON K7G
Waitlist for new clients
Currently waitlisting clients- When people are anxious, grieving, or struggling in life, it can be hard to know where to turn for help. I work with children, adolescents, adults,and couples to assist in improving their well being and re-establish healthy, happy patterns and lifestyles. I am a Registered Social Worker and have over 25 years experience in various counselling roles. I am passionate about meeting people where they are at and empowering them to be the best versions of themselves.
Currently waitlisting clients- When people are anxious, grieving, or struggling in life, it can be hard to know where to turn for help. I work with children, adolescents, adults,and couples to assist in improving their well being and re-establish healthy, happy patterns and lifestyles. I am a Registered Social Worker and have over 25 years experience in various counselling roles. I am passionate about meeting people where they are at and empowering them to be the best versions of themselves.
I work from a place that values and acknowledges the need for connection and right relationship in all domains of life, including the therapeutic relationship. The desire to feel heard, understood, known and safe is an inherent need we all desire and I aspire to create this dynamic in all my therapeutic working relationships. I am strength-based clinician, drawing on each individual unique gifts, talents and experiences. I understand and feel privileged to witness the triumph over one's challenges through this therapeutic process. I am a RP, with 30 years in Mental Health, working with children, youth, adults, couples and families.
I work from a place that values and acknowledges the need for connection and right relationship in all domains of life, including the therapeutic relationship. The desire to feel heard, understood, known and safe is an inherent need we all desire and I aspire to create this dynamic in all my therapeutic working relationships. I am strength-based clinician, drawing on each individual unique gifts, talents and experiences. I understand and feel privileged to witness the triumph over one's challenges through this therapeutic process. I am a RP, with 30 years in Mental Health, working with children, youth, adults, couples and families.
Resolve Counselling Services Canada offers a number of programs and services that have been developed to support adults, youth, couples and families overcome challenges that affect their emotional and social well-being. All of our counsellors believe that the individuals, couples, families, and groups who come to us for counselling are resilient and possess the inherent strengths needed to solve their unique set of challenges. Each of our clinical counsellors uses a counselling approach that is informed by current best practices.
Resolve Counselling Services Canada offers a number of programs and services that have been developed to support adults, youth, couples and families overcome challenges that affect their emotional and social well-being. All of our counsellors believe that the individuals, couples, families, and groups who come to us for counselling are resilient and possess the inherent strengths needed to solve their unique set of challenges. Each of our clinical counsellors uses a counselling approach that is informed by current best practices.
Welcome to my page! My name is Kristen. I am a Registered Social Worker & Psychotherapist with a passion for supporting individuals who are looking to embark on a healing journey and reclaim their life. I have a Master of Social Work Degree from the University of Windsor, as well as a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from Trent University. I am registered with both the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and the Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW). In addition to my education, I have 7 years of experience supporting adults and youth in inpatient and community mental health settings.
Welcome to my page! My name is Kristen. I am a Registered Social Worker & Psychotherapist with a passion for supporting individuals who are looking to embark on a healing journey and reclaim their life. I have a Master of Social Work Degree from the University of Windsor, as well as a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from Trent University. I am registered with both the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and the Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW). In addition to my education, I have 7 years of experience supporting adults and youth in inpatient and community mental health settings.
It takes courage to begin the counselling process. When you make the choice to work through painful feelings, to change damaging behaviours, or to build stronger relationships, your life improves in many ways. My role is to provide a counselling relationship that allows you to feel safe to share your experiences, feelings and thoughts. I offer a confidential space, support and feedback in order to help you to make the changes you identify. I am passionate about supporting people in building their capacity to connect with the wisdom of their body and emotions and to return to a felt sense of safety and connection to self.
It takes courage to begin the counselling process. When you make the choice to work through painful feelings, to change damaging behaviours, or to build stronger relationships, your life improves in many ways. My role is to provide a counselling relationship that allows you to feel safe to share your experiences, feelings and thoughts. I offer a confidential space, support and feedback in order to help you to make the changes you identify. I am passionate about supporting people in building their capacity to connect with the wisdom of their body and emotions and to return to a felt sense of safety and connection to self.
Courtney James Counselling and Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gananoque, ON K7G
We specialize in EMDR, trauma treatment, perinatal mental health and relational difficulties. We offer in-person and virtual therapy sessions to support you; your ability to feel safe and connected is our main priority.
We specialize in EMDR, trauma treatment, perinatal mental health and relational difficulties. We offer in-person and virtual therapy sessions to support you; your ability to feel safe and connected is our main priority.
Kelly Dean
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gananoque, ON K7G
Not accepting new clients
I have 30 years experience working with individuals and families in overcoming addiction, trauma, relationship issues, depression and anxiety.
If you're reading this; you've already started your journey to wellness. One of our greatest pains can be feeling stuck; confused about what needs to change and where to begin. This state of being can zap our energy and leave us feeling discontent. Giving voice to our challenges offers us a fresh perspective and allows us to see the opportunity that lies within the challenge. I offer a confidential and compassionate space to allow you to feel safe as we navigate the challenges you bring to counselling and discover personalized solutions that will increase your confidence and improve the quality of your life and relationships.
I have 30 years experience working with individuals and families in overcoming addiction, trauma, relationship issues, depression and anxiety.
If you're reading this; you've already started your journey to wellness. One of our greatest pains can be feeling stuck; confused about what needs to change and where to begin. This state of being can zap our energy and leave us feeling discontent. Giving voice to our challenges offers us a fresh perspective and allows us to see the opportunity that lies within the challenge. I offer a confidential and compassionate space to allow you to feel safe as we navigate the challenges you bring to counselling and discover personalized solutions that will increase your confidence and improve the quality of your life and relationships.
Amanda Hammond
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RSSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gananoque, ON K7G
Not accepting new clients
On the outside, you've got it together. You’re reliable, ambitious, and “successful”. On the inside, you never feel good enough, that you’re measuring up - or you’re just burnt out. Crispy, even. You’ve spent the last number of years trying to keep it all together, and wow, is it ever exhausting. You are looking for a change; you now need to come first. You’ve tried the self-help books, old coping skills and continue to feel like you’re drowning. You want to figure out this whole work-life balance thing in a way that doesn’t leave you feeling selfish or guilty. I want to help you get there.
On the outside, you've got it together. You’re reliable, ambitious, and “successful”. On the inside, you never feel good enough, that you’re measuring up - or you’re just burnt out. Crispy, even. You’ve spent the last number of years trying to keep it all together, and wow, is it ever exhausting. You are looking for a change; you now need to come first. You’ve tried the self-help books, old coping skills and continue to feel like you’re drowning. You want to figure out this whole work-life balance thing in a way that doesn’t leave you feeling selfish or guilty. I want to help you get there.
Dawn Godfrey
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gananoque, ON K7G
Not accepting new clients
I believe that having the courage to allow yourself to be vulnerable by sharing your story, and being open to learn new ways of coping, can lead to a more balanced self with lasting change. As your therapist, I can help guide you to make healthy choices, to engage in healthy relationships, and to identify your own strengths. I provide an environment of compassion and creativity which helps inform the exploration of personal issues.
I believe that having the courage to allow yourself to be vulnerable by sharing your story, and being open to learn new ways of coping, can lead to a more balanced self with lasting change. As your therapist, I can help guide you to make healthy choices, to engage in healthy relationships, and to identify your own strengths. I provide an environment of compassion and creativity which helps inform the exploration of personal issues.
Karen Gillis
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, MA
Verified Verified
Gananoque, ON K7G (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Life is tough, especially lately. Expectations are overwhelming, your to-do list keeps growing, and there's not enough time in the day. You may be trying to please everyone and end up feeling burnt out or never good enough. School or work feel like too much to handle, and self-care seems like another "should". If you're thinking: "I don’t know what to do. I’m exhausted. I’m so frustrated. I want to feel more like myself (again). I want things to change", know that you can build a life worth living. These are the things I have often heard from my clients - and we can work with that! Recovery is possible and life can get better.
Life is tough, especially lately. Expectations are overwhelming, your to-do list keeps growing, and there's not enough time in the day. You may be trying to please everyone and end up feeling burnt out or never good enough. School or work feel like too much to handle, and self-care seems like another "should". If you're thinking: "I don’t know what to do. I’m exhausted. I’m so frustrated. I want to feel more like myself (again). I want things to change", know that you can build a life worth living. These are the things I have often heard from my clients - and we can work with that! Recovery is possible and life can get better.
Online Therapists
Joe Aslaner
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP, CSAT(C)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brockville, ON K6V
As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist Candidate (CSAT-C), my specialization is treating those impacted by sex addiction.
I work with individuals and couples on a variety of issues related to mental health, addictions, sex addiction, marriage and couple conflict as well as trauma. I specialize in helping couples cultivate healthier relationships, as well as assisting individuals to overcome their addictive behaviour and mindset. My experience includes: in-patient and out-patient care in a treatment center setting, as well as agency and private practice work.
As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist Candidate (CSAT-C), my specialization is treating those impacted by sex addiction.
I work with individuals and couples on a variety of issues related to mental health, addictions, sex addiction, marriage and couple conflict as well as trauma. I specialize in helping couples cultivate healthier relationships, as well as assisting individuals to overcome their addictive behaviour and mindset. My experience includes: in-patient and out-patient care in a treatment center setting, as well as agency and private practice work.
Priscilla Domingo
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2E (Online Only)
Many people struggle with anxiety, depression, and substance use. My practice is centered around navigating these challenges, with a commitment to honoring the diverse cultural backgrounds of my clients. I strive to create a therapeutic environment where teenagers, young adults, and young professionals can explore their mental health concerns with a deep appreciation for their unique experiences.
Many people struggle with anxiety, depression, and substance use. My practice is centered around navigating these challenges, with a commitment to honoring the diverse cultural backgrounds of my clients. I strive to create a therapeutic environment where teenagers, young adults, and young professionals can explore their mental health concerns with a deep appreciation for their unique experiences.
Josée Houde Psychotherapy (services bilingues)
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L
I have extensive experience with addiction, relationship conflict and people struggling to manage their emotions.
Life is hard! I specialize in managing anxiety, stress, and depression. These emotions, if not dealt with can lead to arguments, regret or using substances to cope. I understand the daily challenges of working, adulting, parenting and trying to maintain your health. I have 25 years experience with first responders and veterans and am a trained Wounded Warriors of Canada Service Provider. I know how these jobs can sometimes hijack your life and your family. I also work with teenagers and youth to build life skills to deal with challenges. Getting therapy before things blow up can minimize your problems and prevent future ones.
I have extensive experience with addiction, relationship conflict and people struggling to manage their emotions.
Life is hard! I specialize in managing anxiety, stress, and depression. These emotions, if not dealt with can lead to arguments, regret or using substances to cope. I understand the daily challenges of working, adulting, parenting and trying to maintain your health. I have 25 years experience with first responders and veterans and am a trained Wounded Warriors of Canada Service Provider. I know how these jobs can sometimes hijack your life and your family. I also work with teenagers and youth to build life skills to deal with challenges. Getting therapy before things blow up can minimize your problems and prevent future ones.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with stress, chronically exhausted and on the verge of burnout? Do you feel like you’re stuck in fight/flight or shutdown mode? Are you experiencing anger, anxiety, depression and/or relying too much on alcohol or other substances to cope? Are you struggling with centering your own needs and desires, or maintaining balance in your life? Are you a helping professional or caregiver? If so, you may benefit from speaking to a professional who specializes in treating stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, addiction, empathic strain/compassion fatigue, trauma exposure and secondary traumatic stress.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with stress, chronically exhausted and on the verge of burnout? Do you feel like you’re stuck in fight/flight or shutdown mode? Are you experiencing anger, anxiety, depression and/or relying too much on alcohol or other substances to cope? Are you struggling with centering your own needs and desires, or maintaining balance in your life? Are you a helping professional or caregiver? If so, you may benefit from speaking to a professional who specializes in treating stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, addiction, empathic strain/compassion fatigue, trauma exposure and secondary traumatic stress.
Heather Anderson is a clinical psychologist who works with individuals, couples, and families dealing with a range of mental health difficulties. In addition to treating mood (i.e., depression, dysthymia), anxiety (i.e., GAD, Panic, and phobias), behavioural difficulties (e.g., anger, impulsivity), and addiction. Heather also has extensive experience in helping clients with relationship issues, adjustment difficulties, and navigating life transitions. She will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your own individual needs, with the goal of increasing your quality of life and functioning.
Heather Anderson is a clinical psychologist who works with individuals, couples, and families dealing with a range of mental health difficulties. In addition to treating mood (i.e., depression, dysthymia), anxiety (i.e., GAD, Panic, and phobias), behavioural difficulties (e.g., anger, impulsivity), and addiction. Heather also has extensive experience in helping clients with relationship issues, adjustment difficulties, and navigating life transitions. She will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your own individual needs, with the goal of increasing your quality of life and functioning.
Lacasse Counselling - Sabrina Lacasse
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CCAC, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S
I specialize in the treatment of relationships, communication, intimacy, sexuality, addiction & mental health.
My theory of change is founded on the premise that healing and growth can emerge through nurturing interpersonal connections. I stand by the belief that we are relational beings, meaning that our interactions with others influence our mood, sense of self, and well-being. Through sessions, whether I work with you or your relationship, I facilitate dynamic interventions to create new bonding moments that foster cognitive awareness, emotional regulation, and behavioural changes. As a therapist, my goal is to help you shift from a place of reactiveness and hopelessness to a place of communication and connection.
I specialize in the treatment of relationships, communication, intimacy, sexuality, addiction & mental health.
My theory of change is founded on the premise that healing and growth can emerge through nurturing interpersonal connections. I stand by the belief that we are relational beings, meaning that our interactions with others influence our mood, sense of self, and well-being. Through sessions, whether I work with you or your relationship, I facilitate dynamic interventions to create new bonding moments that foster cognitive awareness, emotional regulation, and behavioural changes. As a therapist, my goal is to help you shift from a place of reactiveness and hopelessness to a place of communication and connection.
I have experience and specialize in a wide variety on mental health concerns and have experience in treating addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self-injury behaviours among many other issues.
With 23 years of experience I can help and support you with all of your psychological needs. I'm currently accepting new clients throughout Ontario and offer reasonable rates. I specialize in EMDR for trauma, CBT, and a variety of other modalities. For more information please visit www.couragepsychotherapy.ca or call me at 613-292-8282 to book an appointment or schedule a free consultation. Weekend virtual appointments appointments available now.
I have experience and specialize in a wide variety on mental health concerns and have experience in treating addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self-injury behaviours among many other issues.
With 23 years of experience I can help and support you with all of your psychological needs. I'm currently accepting new clients throughout Ontario and offer reasonable rates. I specialize in EMDR for trauma, CBT, and a variety of other modalities. For more information please visit www.couragepsychotherapy.ca or call me at 613-292-8282 to book an appointment or schedule a free consultation. Weekend virtual appointments appointments available now.
Emad Zahedi - Porn Addiction Paladin
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7M (Online Only)
Sex/porn addiction, anger, sexual performance issues, relationship infidelity - you name it, I’ve supported my clients through it.
The really good things in life are not supposed to be this complicated. You've been feeling off, you’re distracted and disengaged from the important people in your life, and you’re struggling with deeply personal issues that you just can't shake off. These are things you’re not even sure how to talk to people about. You’re embarrassed and ashamed to have the problems you have and you’re not sure why you can’t just manage things on your own, but you can’t seem to. You know it’s time to bring in a hired gun. You want results, you want relief, and you want it yesterday. You don’t want to be in therapy for years, either.
Sex/porn addiction, anger, sexual performance issues, relationship infidelity - you name it, I’ve supported my clients through it.
The really good things in life are not supposed to be this complicated. You've been feeling off, you’re distracted and disengaged from the important people in your life, and you’re struggling with deeply personal issues that you just can't shake off. These are things you’re not even sure how to talk to people about. You’re embarrassed and ashamed to have the problems you have and you’re not sure why you can’t just manage things on your own, but you can’t seem to. You know it’s time to bring in a hired gun. You want results, you want relief, and you want it yesterday. You don’t want to be in therapy for years, either.
Dr. Jany Woolf - ON Clinical Psychology Center
Psychologist, PsyD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2H
Our team of experienced and compassionate therapists are highly trained and specialize in treating a wide array of mental health disorders such as ADHD, ASD, Substance Misuse, BPD.
Are you struggling with anxiety, self-doubt and self-criticism? Or perhaps you've recently experienced some stressful life events, and are looking for some new ways to cope? I treat a range of concerns, including anxiety disorders, depression, life transitions, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder and body image concerns. I am knowledgeable about motivation and goal-setting, and often assist my clients in developing healthy habits and prioritizing their own wellbeing.
Our team of experienced and compassionate therapists are highly trained and specialize in treating a wide array of mental health disorders such as ADHD, ASD, Substance Misuse, BPD.
Are you struggling with anxiety, self-doubt and self-criticism? Or perhaps you've recently experienced some stressful life events, and are looking for some new ways to cope? I treat a range of concerns, including anxiety disorders, depression, life transitions, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder and body image concerns. I am knowledgeable about motivation and goal-setting, and often assist my clients in developing healthy habits and prioritizing their own wellbeing.
Wendy Nuttall
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2E
Waitlist for new clients
If you've been struggling with your emotions, and have difficulty coping, I can help. Substance abuse, mood disorders, or BPD can impact your relationships and the way you view the world. I specialize in addiction, BPD, depression, emotion regulation problems. I have more than 25 years of experience with these, as well as anxiety and internet overuse. My approaches include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. Together we can work toward your mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
If you've been struggling with your emotions, and have difficulty coping, I can help. Substance abuse, mood disorders, or BPD can impact your relationships and the way you view the world. I specialize in addiction, BPD, depression, emotion regulation problems. I have more than 25 years of experience with these, as well as anxiety and internet overuse. My approaches include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. Together we can work toward your mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
Brigitte Upshaw
Registered Social Service Worker, BA, RSSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roseneath, ON K0K (Online Only)
Are you struggling with managing stress and feel that it is impacting your life? Going through a separation and having a hard time managing the changes? Do you often feel anxious or depressed? Have you or a family member been struggling with substance abuse?
Are you struggling with managing stress and feel that it is impacting your life? Going through a separation and having a hard time managing the changes? Do you often feel anxious or depressed? Have you or a family member been struggling with substance abuse?
As a man, emotions and sharing them often create barriers for relationships with others and with ourselves. Support around emotional awareness for men is important to help build a better connection with all aspects of our lives. Being able to share and communicate who we "really" are is vital to a fulfilling life. I help men deal with emotional awareness. Supporting men to work through their own emotional histories and how that effects them daily is the key to connecting to your true "self". We need to address issues, like Trauma, Addiction and Shame, to help you understand the roots of emotional identity and its effects today.
As a man, emotions and sharing them often create barriers for relationships with others and with ourselves. Support around emotional awareness for men is important to help build a better connection with all aspects of our lives. Being able to share and communicate who we "really" are is vital to a fulfilling life. I help men deal with emotional awareness. Supporting men to work through their own emotional histories and how that effects them daily is the key to connecting to your true "self". We need to address issues, like Trauma, Addiction and Shame, to help you understand the roots of emotional identity and its effects today.
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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.