Addiction Counselling in Burscough

Photo of Hayley Jane Trevalyan, MBACP, Counsellor
Hayley Jane Trevalyan
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Burscough L40
My therapeutic approach is based on the belief that each of us carries within ourselves the wisdom and tools to initiate our own healing process, the therapeutic relationship then becomes a facilitation of a return to self. Through my own journey of recovery and successfully sustaining sobriety I have become a believer in being able to reinvent your life. To address addiction is often very difficult and takes incredible courage. But the gifts of recovery from addiction are tremendous. As your therapist I will quickly identify the causes, conditions and underlying concerns that are causing your pain.
My therapeutic approach is based on the belief that each of us carries within ourselves the wisdom and tools to initiate our own healing process, the therapeutic relationship then becomes a facilitation of a return to self. Through my own journey of recovery and successfully sustaining sobriety I have become a believer in being able to reinvent your life. To address addiction is often very difficult and takes incredible courage. But the gifts of recovery from addiction are tremendous. As your therapist I will quickly identify the causes, conditions and underlying concerns that are causing your pain.
01704 335744 View 01704 335744
Photo of Bobbie Cottam, BACP, Counsellor
Bobbie Cottam
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Burscough L40
Welcome to Re-Mind Therapy Services. My name is Bobbie and I am a person-centred counsellor. My passion is to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences at your own pace. The person-centred approach is at the heart of my practice. I firmly believe that each person has within them the capacity for growth, healing, and positive change. My role is not to direct or advise, but to walk alongside you as you navigate your own journey. I strive to offer empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuine understanding, allowing you to feel heard and valued.
Welcome to Re-Mind Therapy Services. My name is Bobbie and I am a person-centred counsellor. My passion is to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences at your own pace. The person-centred approach is at the heart of my practice. I firmly believe that each person has within them the capacity for growth, healing, and positive change. My role is not to direct or advise, but to walk alongside you as you navigate your own journey. I strive to offer empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuine understanding, allowing you to feel heard and valued.
01257 445767 View 01257 445767
Photo of Lynne Christine Hutton, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Lynne Christine Hutton
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Burscough L40
I have a specialism in Bereavement and with clients bringing various issues: anxiety, depression, Suicidal thoughts, bereavement, stress, addictions,relationship issues including domestic violence, family issues, sexual/emotional/physical abuse, gender transitioning,bullying school/work, menopause, sexual difficulties, PTSD,chronic illness/pain, divorce.
Are you struggling with overwhelming emotions? I aim to provide a safe space, and my full presence to listen to you. I am a Person-Centred/Experiential Counsellor with a 1st Class BA (Hons) Degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy, working in an emotion-focused way. I am passionate about counselling. I offer a warm, empathic, non-judgemental space, which will hopefully enable you to share whatever you wish, to help to empower you to make positive change in your life. specialisms:Bereavement, Neurodiversity, Anxiety, Self-harm, Depression,Children in care/ safeguarding/Child Protection,victims of the Manchester terrorist attack.
I have a specialism in Bereavement and with clients bringing various issues: anxiety, depression, Suicidal thoughts, bereavement, stress, addictions,relationship issues including domestic violence, family issues, sexual/emotional/physical abuse, gender transitioning,bullying school/work, menopause, sexual difficulties, PTSD,chronic illness/pain, divorce.
Are you struggling with overwhelming emotions? I aim to provide a safe space, and my full presence to listen to you. I am a Person-Centred/Experiential Counsellor with a 1st Class BA (Hons) Degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy, working in an emotion-focused way. I am passionate about counselling. I offer a warm, empathic, non-judgemental space, which will hopefully enable you to share whatever you wish, to help to empower you to make positive change in your life. specialisms:Bereavement, Neurodiversity, Anxiety, Self-harm, Depression,Children in care/ safeguarding/Child Protection,victims of the Manchester terrorist attack.
07723 712736 View 07723 712736
Photo of Jennifer Eirlys Williams, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Jennifer Eirlys Williams
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Burscough L40
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, stress or unwanted behaviours or feelings during these challenging times? Perhaps you feel stuck, overwhelmed and don't know how to move forward? Do you feel like you're existing rather than living? Maybe deep down you know you'd benefit from some support and help to move beyond your current struggle, but feel fearful about reaching out for help? Are you looking for an approachable, empathetic and experienced therapist who will understand YOUR individual difficulties, needs and circumstances and support you to move forward in way that is meaningful to you?
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, stress or unwanted behaviours or feelings during these challenging times? Perhaps you feel stuck, overwhelmed and don't know how to move forward? Do you feel like you're existing rather than living? Maybe deep down you know you'd benefit from some support and help to move beyond your current struggle, but feel fearful about reaching out for help? Are you looking for an approachable, empathetic and experienced therapist who will understand YOUR individual difficulties, needs and circumstances and support you to move forward in way that is meaningful to you?
01695 668037 View 01695 668037
Photo of Steve Moore, MBACP, Counsellor
Steve Moore
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Burscough L40
I think for most of us, life has a tendency to become overwhelming from time to time and we can feel like the support we have around us just isn't enough. Try not to compare your struggles with others - it's important you acknowledge that your difficulties are relative to you and you alone. But if you're reading this I would hope you are already beginning to realise, .you are worth more than the way you currently feel.
I think for most of us, life has a tendency to become overwhelming from time to time and we can feel like the support we have around us just isn't enough. Try not to compare your struggles with others - it's important you acknowledge that your difficulties are relative to you and you alone. But if you're reading this I would hope you are already beginning to realise, .you are worth more than the way you currently feel.
01704 335559 View 01704 335559

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lisa Marie Meakin - Euxton Counselling Service - Lisa Meakin, MBACP, Counsellor
Euxton Counselling Service - Lisa Meakin
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Chorley PR7
* Anxiety/Stress* Depression* Bereavement* Sex Addiction* All forms of Abuse*Trauma *Relationship issues* Drug Abuse* Alcoholism* Baby an Birth issues* Food Addiction/ Eating Disorders* Family issues* Sexually issues* Suicidal thoughts* Anger Management* Phobias* OCD* Workplace Issues* Sadness* PTSD* Loneliness* Diagnosis* LGBTQ* Gender Issues* Self Harm*.
I offer warm, respectful, non-judgemental space in which you can freely explore your thoughts and feelings, develop a greater understanding of yourself and start to move towards personal growth and an increased sense of well-being. ​ I am a qualified BACP, and work to a strict code of ethics. I believe you deserve to be happy and fulfilled in your life and that you have the ability to make that happen. Life can be challenging and difficult and i am trained to help you through your troubles and to support you making changes in you life.
* Anxiety/Stress* Depression* Bereavement* Sex Addiction* All forms of Abuse*Trauma *Relationship issues* Drug Abuse* Alcoholism* Baby an Birth issues* Food Addiction/ Eating Disorders* Family issues* Sexually issues* Suicidal thoughts* Anger Management* Phobias* OCD* Workplace Issues* Sadness* PTSD* Loneliness* Diagnosis* LGBTQ* Gender Issues* Self Harm*.
I offer warm, respectful, non-judgemental space in which you can freely explore your thoughts and feelings, develop a greater understanding of yourself and start to move towards personal growth and an increased sense of well-being. ​ I am a qualified BACP, and work to a strict code of ethics. I believe you deserve to be happy and fulfilled in your life and that you have the ability to make that happen. Life can be challenging and difficult and i am trained to help you through your troubles and to support you making changes in you life.
01257 443774 View 01257 443774
Photo of Joshua David Ronnay-Fisher - Be Better Counselling, BACP, Counsellor
Be Better Counselling
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Wigan WN3
I work with clients who are experiencing a broad spectrum of issues from depression and anxiety to addiction.
As a fully-qualified and experienced counsellor, I take a holistic approach to person centred therapy. I believe firmly in the importance of building up a strong relationship with my clients in order to improve their self-esteem and empower them to make the necessary changes in their lives. Offering a non-judgemental and approachable listening ear, it’s my mission to help those who need it most, especially those who have already had a negative experience of counselling, I practice in a safe, welcoming and comfortable environment.
I work with clients who are experiencing a broad spectrum of issues from depression and anxiety to addiction.
As a fully-qualified and experienced counsellor, I take a holistic approach to person centred therapy. I believe firmly in the importance of building up a strong relationship with my clients in order to improve their self-esteem and empower them to make the necessary changes in their lives. Offering a non-judgemental and approachable listening ear, it’s my mission to help those who need it most, especially those who have already had a negative experience of counselling, I practice in a safe, welcoming and comfortable environment.
01695 668998 View 01695 668998
Photo of Jacqueline Christie, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Jacqueline Christie
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Leyland PR26
I use a range of approaches including person centred, dbt and other modalities. I have studied over the past 20 years to improve my knowledge and ability as a therapist. I work well with a range of issues including borderline personality disorder, people who struggle with difficult emotions, toxic relationships, addiction or addictive behaviour. I can address many issues and teach new skills; for example, improving communication, regulating emotions, emotional resilience, improving self esteem and self worth. I welcome people of all backgrounds including the LGBTQ+ community.
I use a range of approaches including person centred, dbt and other modalities. I have studied over the past 20 years to improve my knowledge and ability as a therapist. I work well with a range of issues including borderline personality disorder, people who struggle with difficult emotions, toxic relationships, addiction or addictive behaviour. I can address many issues and teach new skills; for example, improving communication, regulating emotions, emotional resilience, improving self esteem and self worth. I welcome people of all backgrounds including the LGBTQ+ community.
01257 448244 View 01257 448244
Photo of Kate Farmer, BACP, Counsellor
Kate Farmer
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Chorley PR7
I have experience in Autism, addiction services, bereavement, domestic violence, stalking, safeguarding, Dementia, severe Mental Health including personality disorders.
Welcome to Calming Minds. Do you have relationship difficulties? Do you have low mood, self-worth, issues with confidence and/or depression and anxiety? Have you experience traumatic events? If any of this sounds familiar, I could make a difference to your wellbeing. I am here to listen and validate you towards positive lasting change.
I have experience in Autism, addiction services, bereavement, domestic violence, stalking, safeguarding, Dementia, severe Mental Health including personality disorders.
Welcome to Calming Minds. Do you have relationship difficulties? Do you have low mood, self-worth, issues with confidence and/or depression and anxiety? Have you experience traumatic events? If any of this sounds familiar, I could make a difference to your wellbeing. I am here to listen and validate you towards positive lasting change.
01257 446937 View 01257 446937
Photo of Barbara Nolan Counsellor And Supervisor, MBACP, Counsellor
Barbara Nolan Counsellor And Supervisor
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Southport PR9
Difficulties I help with include Depression and Anxiety, Low self esteem, Relationship and Marriage difficulties, Loss and Bereavement , Addiction, Anger Management, Trauma, Bullying, Domestic Violence, Sexual Abuse, infertility and Miscarriage.
As an experienced and sympathetic BACP (reg) Person Centred Counsellor I understand it can be daunting finding a Counsellor and hope I can help. I have extensive training and experience working in agencies, schools and private practice with a variety of clients. Adults, Couples, Teens and Children helping with a variety of issues. These include anxiety and depression, relationship problems, loss, low self esteem, bullying, domestic violence and abuse. I believe that the most important thing is the counselling relationship and strive to provide a safe environment in which you can be yourself and explore what is going on for you.
Difficulties I help with include Depression and Anxiety, Low self esteem, Relationship and Marriage difficulties, Loss and Bereavement , Addiction, Anger Management, Trauma, Bullying, Domestic Violence, Sexual Abuse, infertility and Miscarriage.
As an experienced and sympathetic BACP (reg) Person Centred Counsellor I understand it can be daunting finding a Counsellor and hope I can help. I have extensive training and experience working in agencies, schools and private practice with a variety of clients. Adults, Couples, Teens and Children helping with a variety of issues. These include anxiety and depression, relationship problems, loss, low self esteem, bullying, domestic violence and abuse. I believe that the most important thing is the counselling relationship and strive to provide a safe environment in which you can be yourself and explore what is going on for you.
01704 320414 View 01704 320414
Photo of Ishbel Grace Straker - I Straker Consultants
I Straker Consultants
Verified Verified
Formby L37
We use therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy as well as a prescribing service if appropriate and work with people who are both physically and/or psychologically impacted by mental health issues or addiction,.
As the owner and director of I Straker Consultants, working from my private practice at The Honeycomb Building in Liverpool city centre, we specialise in Anxiety, Depression, Drug, Alcohol, Mental Health, Perimenopausal and Gambling addiction treatment in Liverpool, Merseyside and the surrounding areas. . I Straker consultants specialises in ADHD assessments, diagnosis and treatment for adults.
We use therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy as well as a prescribing service if appropriate and work with people who are both physically and/or psychologically impacted by mental health issues or addiction,.
As the owner and director of I Straker Consultants, working from my private practice at The Honeycomb Building in Liverpool city centre, we specialise in Anxiety, Depression, Drug, Alcohol, Mental Health, Perimenopausal and Gambling addiction treatment in Liverpool, Merseyside and the surrounding areas. . I Straker consultants specialises in ADHD assessments, diagnosis and treatment for adults.
0151 318 5807 View 0151 318 5807
Photo of Nathan Jones, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Nathan Jones
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Leyland PR26
I am co-author of the recently published recovery manual and workbook, “Understanding Your Inner Child and Overcoming Addiction”.
Are you looking for a therapist who has been in your shoes? Someone who has felt the pain and anguish of addiction? Someone who won't judge and has the tools to help you recover from your own sexual/pornography/drug addiction? Someone, who has a proven record of helping people overcome their sexual addiction and lead a life of purpose and happiness? I am a BACP Accredited Psychotherapist who specialises in the treatment of sexual/drug addiction. I trained as a Cognitive and Behavioural Psychotherapist and recognised as a Certified Inner Child Recovery Process specialist.  I run an evidence based, online, group treatment program for
I am co-author of the recently published recovery manual and workbook, “Understanding Your Inner Child and Overcoming Addiction”.
Are you looking for a therapist who has been in your shoes? Someone who has felt the pain and anguish of addiction? Someone who won't judge and has the tools to help you recover from your own sexual/pornography/drug addiction? Someone, who has a proven record of helping people overcome their sexual addiction and lead a life of purpose and happiness? I am a BACP Accredited Psychotherapist who specialises in the treatment of sexual/drug addiction. I trained as a Cognitive and Behavioural Psychotherapist and recognised as a Certified Inner Child Recovery Process specialist.  I run an evidence based, online, group treatment program for
020 8106 4749 View 020 8106 4749
Photo of Karen Atkinson Stress Anxiety Well-Being Specialist, BACP, Psychotherapist
Karen Atkinson Stress Anxiety Well-Being Specialist
Psychotherapist, BACP
Verified Verified
Liverpool L37
Stress and anxiety can creep into our lives from all sorts of places whether its struggling with substance use to feeling down at work, navigating tricky relationships, or dealing with tough events. We're all human and let's face it none of us are perfect. Sometimes, we just need a bit of support to get through those rough patches. It's hard to watch someone you care about struggle, and often, family members seek support while supporting their loved ones.
Stress and anxiety can creep into our lives from all sorts of places whether its struggling with substance use to feeling down at work, navigating tricky relationships, or dealing with tough events. We're all human and let's face it none of us are perfect. Sometimes, we just need a bit of support to get through those rough patches. It's hard to watch someone you care about struggle, and often, family members seek support while supporting their loved ones.
07862 734271 View 07862 734271
Photo of Brian Jones, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Brian Jones
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Liverpool L31
I spent 14 years working with the NHS acute mental health services and addictions.
HI my name is Brian I am an integrative Counsellor based in Maghull, Liverpool. As a counsellor I support individuals to develop and grow whilst providing clients with a safe, relaxed and confidential space in which they can explore present or past issues. I offer a professional warm confidential counselling service to Adults, Young people and Children. on an individual basis or couples/families. "When you can't look on the bright side, I will sit with you in the dark"
I spent 14 years working with the NHS acute mental health services and addictions.
HI my name is Brian I am an integrative Counsellor based in Maghull, Liverpool. As a counsellor I support individuals to develop and grow whilst providing clients with a safe, relaxed and confidential space in which they can explore present or past issues. I offer a professional warm confidential counselling service to Adults, Young people and Children. on an individual basis or couples/families. "When you can't look on the bright side, I will sit with you in the dark"
0151 317 5021 View 0151 317 5021
Photo of Stephanie Mills, BACP, Counsellor
Stephanie Mills
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Saint Helens WA11
I am a fully-qualified Person-Centred counsellor with further training in the Rewind Technique for use in the treatment of phobias and PTSD, and I am also a fully qualified ATSAC Sex Addiction therapist with experience in working with sex and love addicts, and their partners and families using solution-focused therapy techniques.
Hiya, I’m Steph, thank you for reading my profile.‍ There is no problem too big or too small, and I like to make my clients feel comfortable and safe enough that they feel able to bring absolutely anything to our sessions – there is no topic off limits. Giving you back control of your life is important to me, so our sessions together will be about making sure that you are getting exactly what you want and need to help you work through your problem. I’ll be by your side the whole way; you’ve got this!
I am a fully-qualified Person-Centred counsellor with further training in the Rewind Technique for use in the treatment of phobias and PTSD, and I am also a fully qualified ATSAC Sex Addiction therapist with experience in working with sex and love addicts, and their partners and families using solution-focused therapy techniques.
Hiya, I’m Steph, thank you for reading my profile.‍ There is no problem too big or too small, and I like to make my clients feel comfortable and safe enough that they feel able to bring absolutely anything to our sessions – there is no topic off limits. Giving you back control of your life is important to me, so our sessions together will be about making sure that you are getting exactly what you want and need to help you work through your problem. I’ll be by your side the whole way; you’ve got this!
01942 925907 View 01942 925907
Photo of Denise Hare, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Denise Hare
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Skelmersdale WN8
I offer talking therapy in a confidential, safe and relaxing environment. It may be easier to talk about personal issues, in an alternative place, with someone who is not involved and is totally non-judgemental. Counselling is my passion! I believe we were born to be real...not perfect. My belief in the process, how it works and in particular how the working alliance can help you to move forward never stops.
I offer talking therapy in a confidential, safe and relaxing environment. It may be easier to talk about personal issues, in an alternative place, with someone who is not involved and is totally non-judgemental. Counselling is my passion! I believe we were born to be real...not perfect. My belief in the process, how it works and in particular how the working alliance can help you to move forward never stops.
01695 302058 View 01695 302058
Photo of Louise Bol Cbt Therapist Supervisor, MBACP, Counsellor
Louise Bol Cbt Therapist Supervisor
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Southport PR8
Are you you feeling anxious a lot of the time? Or waking up most mornings feeling low, thinking 'what's the point'? It's as if no one really understands what you are going through. I have 'been there, done that, bought the T-shirt' myself, before becoming a counsellor, so know from personal experience that getting the right professional support can make all the difference. I am a warm, caring and experienced CBT Therapist/Counsellor who helps people overcome anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, etc, I work with you find a way forward to deal with whatever is troubling you. Contact me for free 20 min apt to discuss how I can help.
Are you you feeling anxious a lot of the time? Or waking up most mornings feeling low, thinking 'what's the point'? It's as if no one really understands what you are going through. I have 'been there, done that, bought the T-shirt' myself, before becoming a counsellor, so know from personal experience that getting the right professional support can make all the difference. I am a warm, caring and experienced CBT Therapist/Counsellor who helps people overcome anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, etc, I work with you find a way forward to deal with whatever is troubling you. Contact me for free 20 min apt to discuss how I can help.
01704 335752 View 01704 335752
Photo of Donna Harding, BACP, Counsellor
Donna Harding
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Liverpool L10
Hello, I'm Donna, a dedicated and empathic therapist with over 10 years of experience in the industry, I have my own successful and thriving private practice. I specialise in person-centred therapy, drawing from my extensive background in leadership and mentoring, outdoor and experiential learning. I provide therapy for adults, children, and adolescents dealing with a range of challenges including relationship difficulties, anxiety and mood disorders, trauma, and grief. I also offer specialised support for individuals navigating the impact of childhood trauma on adult life.
Hello, I'm Donna, a dedicated and empathic therapist with over 10 years of experience in the industry, I have my own successful and thriving private practice. I specialise in person-centred therapy, drawing from my extensive background in leadership and mentoring, outdoor and experiential learning. I provide therapy for adults, children, and adolescents dealing with a range of challenges including relationship difficulties, anxiety and mood disorders, trauma, and grief. I also offer specialised support for individuals navigating the impact of childhood trauma on adult life.
0151 541 5362 View 0151 541 5362
Photo of Karen Veronica Hodgson, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Karen Veronica Hodgson
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Chorley PR7
I'm Karen, a UKCP Reg & EMDR Psychotherapist working online. Practicing for over 24 years with people struggling with self worth, loneliness & isolation; who struggle to connect well with others or develop intimate relationships, who people-please or have difficulties prioritising their needs; who have experienced infidelity/betrayals of trust; who have communication difficulties or struggle to set boundaries; who find balancing individual & couple expectations difficult; who are stuck in their grief, anger, anxiety or depression or who present with complex trauma & attachment wounds rooted in their childhood.
I'm Karen, a UKCP Reg & EMDR Psychotherapist working online. Practicing for over 24 years with people struggling with self worth, loneliness & isolation; who struggle to connect well with others or develop intimate relationships, who people-please or have difficulties prioritising their needs; who have experienced infidelity/betrayals of trust; who have communication difficulties or struggle to set boundaries; who find balancing individual & couple expectations difficult; who are stuck in their grief, anger, anxiety or depression or who present with complex trauma & attachment wounds rooted in their childhood.
01257 448237 View 01257 448237
Photo of Nathan Ellison, MBACP, Counsellor
Nathan Ellison
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Chorley PR7
Things happen in life that catch us off guard, trauma, death of a loved one, diagnosis of an illness and more. You might pride yourself in being able to handle most of what life deals you. This feels different and it's impacting other things in your life. Whether it be your well-being, your relationships or your drive to get up in the morning. Maybe to cope your drinking or taking substances, maybe you self-harm or maybe you just can't talk to your loved ones about it. Sometimes it takes exploring the issues candidly without concern of being a burden, being judged or worried about.
Things happen in life that catch us off guard, trauma, death of a loved one, diagnosis of an illness and more. You might pride yourself in being able to handle most of what life deals you. This feels different and it's impacting other things in your life. Whether it be your well-being, your relationships or your drive to get up in the morning. Maybe to cope your drinking or taking substances, maybe you self-harm or maybe you just can't talk to your loved ones about it. Sometimes it takes exploring the issues candidly without concern of being a burden, being judged or worried about.
01942 559883 View 01942 559883

See more therapy options for Burscough

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.