Addiction Therapists in Kingston, ON
In recent years I have focused my work on supporting individuals identifying sex and relationship addiction issues.
Practice currently full- not accepting new referrals. My passion is supporting individuals in overcoming struggles with addiction, including alcohol and drug use, and behaviours such as spending, sex, and relationships. My goal is to help individuals gain a better understanding of, and ability to cope with, challenging life experiences including trauma, mental health difficulties, and family of origin pain. I teach skills to manage overwhelming emotions, including combatting shame, anxiety, and depression, and skills to challenge beliefs that keep you stuck.
In recent years I have focused my work on supporting individuals identifying sex and relationship addiction issues.
Practice currently full- not accepting new referrals. My passion is supporting individuals in overcoming struggles with addiction, including alcohol and drug use, and behaviours such as spending, sex, and relationships. My goal is to help individuals gain a better understanding of, and ability to cope with, challenging life experiences including trauma, mental health difficulties, and family of origin pain. I teach skills to manage overwhelming emotions, including combatting shame, anxiety, and depression, and skills to challenge beliefs that keep you stuck.
Justin McCourt
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, SSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7P
I specialize in addiction, trauma and relationships.
Through a client-centered, non-judgemental approach, my goal is to journey along with individuals as they discover and develop internal resiliency. I specialize in relationships, trauma and addiction and have been working in the field of addiction and mental health for over 15 years. I am registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.
I specialize in addiction, trauma and relationships.
Through a client-centered, non-judgemental approach, my goal is to journey along with individuals as they discover and develop internal resiliency. I specialize in relationships, trauma and addiction and have been working in the field of addiction and mental health for over 15 years. I am registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.
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.
Alicia Sergeant
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7K
Welcome! I am Alicia Sergeant, an integrative Registered Psychotherapist (Q) with over fourteen years of experience providing individual and group counselling. My practice wholeheartedly embraces a creative and holistic approach to healing and wellness. Together, we can address trauma, addiction, mental health issues or relational challenges. Additionally, I offer experienced support to First Responders and those affected by addiction, incarceration, and sexual trauma. I am passionate about tapping into your unique strengths and guiding you through personalized, evidence-based interventions.
Welcome! I am Alicia Sergeant, an integrative Registered Psychotherapist (Q) with over fourteen years of experience providing individual and group counselling. My practice wholeheartedly embraces a creative and holistic approach to healing and wellness. Together, we can address trauma, addiction, mental health issues or relational challenges. Additionally, I offer experienced support to First Responders and those affected by addiction, incarceration, and sexual trauma. I am passionate about tapping into your unique strengths and guiding you through personalized, evidence-based interventions.
I have experience working with a variety of mental health and addiction issues; including trauma, depression, anxiety and life transitions.
My goal is to work with individuals as they navigate through their difficult times and strive to work collaboratively towards a better quality of life. I am a registered member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists and have a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. I am a certified EMDR practionier and am Accredited Cool Kids provider (anxiety treatment program for children and youth). My primary goal is to build a strong therapeutic rapport with each of my clients and ensure there is comfort in the vulnerability of sharing their story while working towards the goals of therapy.
I have experience working with a variety of mental health and addiction issues; including trauma, depression, anxiety and life transitions.
My goal is to work with individuals as they navigate through their difficult times and strive to work collaboratively towards a better quality of life. I am a registered member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists and have a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. I am a certified EMDR practionier and am Accredited Cool Kids provider (anxiety treatment program for children and youth). My primary goal is to build a strong therapeutic rapport with each of my clients and ensure there is comfort in the vulnerability of sharing their story while working towards the goals of therapy.
Interventionist for Addictions
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, ICADC, CAI , RPS
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7L
My name is Catherine MacDonald, I am a Certified Addiction Interventionist. I have a wealth of knowledge and life experience that allows me to help families transition from the chaos created by addiction and addictive behaviours of a loved one, towards a new beginning and a healthier family lifestyle for everyone. I will guide and support you through the intervention process, helping your loved one get the help they need and provide continuing care and support for families and friends.
My name is Catherine MacDonald, I am a Certified Addiction Interventionist. I have a wealth of knowledge and life experience that allows me to help families transition from the chaos created by addiction and addictive behaviours of a loved one, towards a new beginning and a healthier family lifestyle for everyone. I will guide and support you through the intervention process, helping your loved one get the help they need and provide continuing care and support for families and friends.
I have a particular research interest in Highly Sensitive Persons (HSP), emotion regulation, and the connection between trauma, maladaptive behavior, and addiction.
Presently, I am a student Masters level in Counselling Psychology practicing under clinical supervision. My approach to therapy consists primarily of building a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients. I value the unique dignity of every human person. I see the therapeutic relationship as a way of affective “being” with a person as opposed to effective “doing”. One of my goals is to reveal my client's intrinsic goodness. Therefore, I aim to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment in my therapy sessions. For a theoretical method, I use an integrative psychotherapy approach based on research-based theories.
I have a particular research interest in Highly Sensitive Persons (HSP), emotion regulation, and the connection between trauma, maladaptive behavior, and addiction.
Presently, I am a student Masters level in Counselling Psychology practicing under clinical supervision. My approach to therapy consists primarily of building a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients. I value the unique dignity of every human person. I see the therapeutic relationship as a way of affective “being” with a person as opposed to effective “doing”. One of my goals is to reveal my client's intrinsic goodness. Therefore, I aim to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment in my therapy sessions. For a theoretical method, I use an integrative psychotherapy approach based on research-based theories.
Insync Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP RSSW
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K0H (Online Only)
My name is Shannon Horrigan and I work "insync" with you to provide mental health and addictions support. I am a seasoned helping professional with over 25 years of experience providing services to individuals and family members. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, substance use and behavioural addictions such as gambling and technology overuse. I am currently available to provide virtual appointments in the evening and on weekends. I offer a free 15 minute consultation and welcome your inquiries. I can be reached at 613-888-1416
My name is Shannon Horrigan and I work "insync" with you to provide mental health and addictions support. I am a seasoned helping professional with over 25 years of experience providing services to individuals and family members. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, substance use and behavioural addictions such as gambling and technology overuse. I am currently available to provide virtual appointments in the evening and on weekends. I offer a free 15 minute consultation and welcome your inquiries. I can be reached at 613-888-1416
As a social worker I specialize in therapy for anxiety, trauma, & substance use concerns.
As you journey through life it is common to at times feel stressed or overwhelmed. Feeling this way can lead to changes in our mental health, ability to function, relationships, and overall peace of mind. As a therapist I walk alongside and support you, holding empathy and understanding as we work together to lighten the load, develop skills, and enhance personal understanding.
As a social worker I specialize in therapy for anxiety, trauma, & substance use concerns.
As you journey through life it is common to at times feel stressed or overwhelmed. Feeling this way can lead to changes in our mental health, ability to function, relationships, and overall peace of mind. As a therapist I walk alongside and support you, holding empathy and understanding as we work together to lighten the load, develop skills, and enhance personal understanding.
Stephanie Black
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BAA, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7P
I have experience working with clients on a number of issues, such as; anxiety, depression, career related stress, anger management, life transitions, addiction concerns and emotion dysregulation.
Accepting New Clients. If you’re looking for some support, let's work together to help address your goals! I aim to provide a warm and safe environment for you to share your thoughts and feelings. Together we will work towards making the changes you are looking for in life. I love helping people become the most fulfilled versions of themselves, and have had the privilege to work in the field of mental health and addictions for 13 years now. I am registered with the College of Psychotherapists of Ontario.
I have experience working with clients on a number of issues, such as; anxiety, depression, career related stress, anger management, life transitions, addiction concerns and emotion dysregulation.
Accepting New Clients. If you’re looking for some support, let's work together to help address your goals! I aim to provide a warm and safe environment for you to share your thoughts and feelings. Together we will work towards making the changes you are looking for in life. I love helping people become the most fulfilled versions of themselves, and have had the privilege to work in the field of mental health and addictions for 13 years now. I am registered with the College of Psychotherapists of Ontario.
Max Monoogian
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7K
Waitlist for new clients
I work collaboratively with clients to explore and process past and current experiences that include early childhood and attachment trauma; combat trauma; grief and loss; life transitions; relationship concerns; substance use; eating disorders; and anxiety and depression.
Suffering is an inherent part of the human experience. However, we often feel that we are alone in our suffering, that no one can relate to our experiences, or that we don’t deserve to find peace in our lives. This can create feelings of frustration and despair, and we begin to feel stuck, unable to connect with others. Fear of judgement, along with our vulnerabilities can keep us from reaching out when we need it the most. I am confident that every person holds an innate understanding of what they need to heal and grow. Grounded in compassion, humility, and curiosity, my aim is to co-create a safe, open space for self-exploration.
I work collaboratively with clients to explore and process past and current experiences that include early childhood and attachment trauma; combat trauma; grief and loss; life transitions; relationship concerns; substance use; eating disorders; and anxiety and depression.
Suffering is an inherent part of the human experience. However, we often feel that we are alone in our suffering, that no one can relate to our experiences, or that we don’t deserve to find peace in our lives. This can create feelings of frustration and despair, and we begin to feel stuck, unable to connect with others. Fear of judgement, along with our vulnerabilities can keep us from reaching out when we need it the most. I am confident that every person holds an innate understanding of what they need to heal and grow. Grounded in compassion, humility, and curiosity, my aim is to co-create a safe, open space for self-exploration.
15 Second Videos
Maureen Bornbaum
Jacob Pollack
Grounded Minds Therapy
D'Arcy Seven Bowker
Sarah G. Horsford
SoulScape Services: Psychotherapy & Wellness Hub
David Nesrallah
Strength Counselling Services
SoulScape Services: Psychotherapy and Wellness Hub
April Pater
Abuse - Narcissism - Nonmonogamy: Heather Kent
Julia Mills - Arms Open Counselling
Online & In-person Talk, Somatic and Sound Therapy
The Dot Canada
Maryanne Nicholls
Allison Sebastian - Director At Seasons Psychotherapy
Martha Njoku
Sarah Margaret Cushing
Arkadiy Volkov
Doug Blad
Seth Chisholm
Joe Aslaner
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP, CSAT(C)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L
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.
Everyone is unique and we believe that everyone needs a unique counselling experience geared to their wants and needs. We specialize in addictions, mental health issues and parenting. I possess over 10 years experience working in the addiction and mental health field.
Everyone is unique and we believe that everyone needs a unique counselling experience geared to their wants and needs. We specialize in addictions, mental health issues and parenting. I possess over 10 years experience working in the addiction and mental health field.
Maureen Bornbaum
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K0H (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in supporting folks who are 18+ and navigating challenging parts of the human experience, including trauma and stress, grief and life transitions and/or substance use. As a queer therapist, I also work with 2SLGBTQIa+ individuals to navigate challenges related to living in a cis and heteronormative world. I help the folks I work with discover new ways to connect with themselves, others, and the world around them in order to build a life that has more space for connection, curiosity, and presence.
I specialize in supporting folks who are 18+ and navigating challenging parts of the human experience, including trauma and stress, grief and life transitions and/or substance use. As a queer therapist, I also work with 2SLGBTQIa+ individuals to navigate challenges related to living in a cis and heteronormative world. I help the folks I work with discover new ways to connect with themselves, others, and the world around them in order to build a life that has more space for connection, curiosity, and presence.
Harlene Kundhal
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP (Q), RN
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7L (Online Only)
My passion is helping anyone struggling with addictions or substance use, and other emotional issues. Going through depression, experiencing anxiety, or dealing with loss can feel so overwhelming. Sometimes it feels like no one can help because they won't fully understand our issues. Talking to a professional can be the first step in healing.
My passion is helping anyone struggling with addictions or substance use, and other emotional issues. Going through depression, experiencing anxiety, or dealing with loss can feel so overwhelming. Sometimes it feels like no one can help because they won't fully understand our issues. Talking to a professional can be the first step in healing.
Arktos Wellness Services Canada ADHD Team
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CCC, RCC, ACC
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7K (Online Only)
Our ideal clients are individuals and families navigating life with ADHD. They seek a safe space to be their authentic selves while addressing challenges like anxiety, emotional regulation, organization, budgeting, substance use, depression, and procrastination. Our goal is to support newly diagnosed adults, parents of neurodivergent children, and anyone grappling with ADHD-related issues, helping them build skills, find balance, and thrive. We create a nurturing environment for personal growth and understanding, empowering clients to achieve their goals and improve their quality of life.
Our ideal clients are individuals and families navigating life with ADHD. They seek a safe space to be their authentic selves while addressing challenges like anxiety, emotional regulation, organization, budgeting, substance use, depression, and procrastination. Our goal is to support newly diagnosed adults, parents of neurodivergent children, and anyone grappling with ADHD-related issues, helping them build skills, find balance, and thrive. We create a nurturing environment for personal growth and understanding, empowering clients to achieve their goals and improve their quality of life.
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.
Dave Neary Registered Psychotherapist
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MEd
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7M
Although I work with a wide range of client issues, a few of my counseling specialties are Men's Issues, Substance Use, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Relationships (individuals only), OCD, Bi-polar Disorder, Veterans, 1st Responders and L.
Accepting New Clients - As Available: I am a caring and empathic psychotherapist who works from a strengths-based approach and help people to resolve troubling issues in their lives. My services are tailored to your needs. My goal is for you to live a more peaceful and balanced life and to learn coping strategies to carry with you after counselling is completed. As in all counselling, we will work together to find solutions to the issues you bring to the counselling session. Visit my website at nearycounsellingkingston.ca
Although I work with a wide range of client issues, a few of my counseling specialties are Men's Issues, Substance Use, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Relationships (individuals only), OCD, Bi-polar Disorder, Veterans, 1st Responders and L.
Accepting New Clients - As Available: I am a caring and empathic psychotherapist who works from a strengths-based approach and help people to resolve troubling issues in their lives. My services are tailored to your needs. My goal is for you to live a more peaceful and balanced life and to learn coping strategies to carry with you after counselling is completed. As in all counselling, we will work together to find solutions to the issues you bring to the counselling session. Visit my website at nearycounsellingkingston.ca
J. Spape Psychological Services
Psychologist, MSc, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7K
Accepting new clients! Growing team of clinicians with extensive experience supporting individuals who are struggling with stress, anxiety, trauma, depression, distress intolerance, relationship difficulties, emotional instability, self-harm, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, grief, or living with major mental illness. Clinicians work collaboratively with clients to develop a deeper and more insightful understanding of thoughts, feelings and behaviours, and how to manage these to ensure individuals live rich meaningful lives.
Accepting new clients! Growing team of clinicians with extensive experience supporting individuals who are struggling with stress, anxiety, trauma, depression, distress intolerance, relationship difficulties, emotional instability, self-harm, suicidal ideation, substance abuse, grief, or living with major mental illness. Clinicians work collaboratively with clients to develop a deeper and more insightful understanding of thoughts, feelings and behaviours, and how to manage these to ensure individuals live rich meaningful lives.
Mackenzie Green (Clark)
Registered Psychotherapist, MA , CCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7M
I specialize in treating mood disorders, anger/rage, addiction/codependency, marital and family conflict. I offer individual therapy, couples therapy and family therapy sessions. My work is trauma informed as most emotional concerns can be rooted in trauma. This also includes relational trauma such as infidelity, trust issues, abusive behaviours, and relationships with an addicted spouse. It has been my passion teach clients how to regulate their nervous system through somatic practices and distress tolerance.
I specialize in treating mood disorders, anger/rage, addiction/codependency, marital and family conflict. I offer individual therapy, couples therapy and family therapy sessions. My work is trauma informed as most emotional concerns can be rooted in trauma. This also includes relational trauma such as infidelity, trust issues, abusive behaviours, and relationships with an addicted spouse. It has been my passion teach clients how to regulate their nervous system through somatic practices and distress tolerance.
Meagan Donnelly
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L
Welcome! I am so glad you're here. I concentrate on working closely with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, life stressors, relationship concerns, navigating identity issues, and substance use. I am able to practice psychotherapy with individuals from 12-years-old and above; providing whole-hearted, collaborative, personalized support for each and every client.
Welcome! I am so glad you're here. I concentrate on working closely with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, life stressors, relationship concerns, navigating identity issues, and substance use. I am able to practice psychotherapy with individuals from 12-years-old and above; providing whole-hearted, collaborative, personalized support for each and every client.
Joanne Roston
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7K (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.
I am a Registered Social Worker who works with folks 12 years old+ from all different backgrounds. I offer 1:1 counselling services that are grounded in a strengths-based approach. I have experience supporting folks with anxiety, depression, substance use, grief, life transitions and case management. I offer my services virtually as well as in person (Kingston), and will work with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs and wishes.
I am a Registered Social Worker who works with folks 12 years old+ from all different backgrounds. I offer 1:1 counselling services that are grounded in a strengths-based approach. I have experience supporting folks with anxiety, depression, substance use, grief, life transitions and case management. I offer my services virtually as well as in person (Kingston), and will work with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs and wishes.
I can help when your mental and physical health are affecting your wellbeing. I will help young and mature adults navigate some of the most significant life challenges such as addiction, anxiety, chronic illness, depression, grief, loss, post-traumatic stress, racial trauma and other challenges associated with life, school, and the workplace that may affect your mental health.
I can help when your mental and physical health are affecting your wellbeing. I will help young and mature adults navigate some of the most significant life challenges such as addiction, anxiety, chronic illness, depression, grief, loss, post-traumatic stress, racial trauma and other challenges associated with life, school, and the workplace that may affect your mental health.
I have a specialized certification in Couples and Family Therapy and over 15 years experience working with clients experiencing issues such as anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, substance addictions, codependency/boundaries, compulsive behaviors.
Are you feeling stuck? Do you want to make a change and just don’t know where to begin? Do you need a different perspective than that of your friends and family around you regarding your life situation? I have a passion for working with individuals and couples looking to make a change or those who are facing a crossroad or large transition in their lives and are needing some strategies, guidance and support navigating these changes. I like to help guide others towards living their best life using the strength and resources they already have, through skills and practical guidance.
I have a specialized certification in Couples and Family Therapy and over 15 years experience working with clients experiencing issues such as anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, substance addictions, codependency/boundaries, compulsive behaviors.
Are you feeling stuck? Do you want to make a change and just don’t know where to begin? Do you need a different perspective than that of your friends and family around you regarding your life situation? I have a passion for working with individuals and couples looking to make a change or those who are facing a crossroad or large transition in their lives and are needing some strategies, guidance and support navigating these changes. I like to help guide others towards living their best life using the strength and resources they already have, through skills and practical guidance.
See more therapy options for Kingston
Nearby Addiction Counsellors Searches for Kingston
See More Addiction CounsellorsNearby Searches for Kingston
See More CounsellorsAddiction 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.