Addiction Counselling in Lytham Saint Annes

Photo of Sara Jane Witter, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Sara Jane Witter
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lytham Saint Annes FY8
With experience working with stress/anxiety/depression/trauma/addiction/complex mental health/common life problems/relationship breakdowns/bereavement - it is never too late to change; to heal.
You may have searched for a therapist without really knowing why - you may just feel you need something/someone? You may even feel overwhelmed. Life can feel so challenging; I can help you uncover your feelings and emotions to really understand what you feel you need/want from yourself and your life right now. To work with you to help you make sense of yourself; your emotions & your past; your pain/fears/grief/trauma/anxiety. I believe, that in even the most terrifying times, together we can work through them to promote therapeutic change, healing, growth & acceptance. To help make life feel that bit easier, I'm in your corner.
With experience working with stress/anxiety/depression/trauma/addiction/complex mental health/common life problems/relationship breakdowns/bereavement - it is never too late to change; to heal.
You may have searched for a therapist without really knowing why - you may just feel you need something/someone? You may even feel overwhelmed. Life can feel so challenging; I can help you uncover your feelings and emotions to really understand what you feel you need/want from yourself and your life right now. To work with you to help you make sense of yourself; your emotions & your past; your pain/fears/grief/trauma/anxiety. I believe, that in even the most terrifying times, together we can work through them to promote therapeutic change, healing, growth & acceptance. To help make life feel that bit easier, I'm in your corner.
01253 542464 View 01253 542464
Photo of Jayne Foster - Serenity Counselling Cleveleys, MBACP, Counsellor
Serenity Counselling Cleveleys
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Lytham Saint Annes FY8
I went on to work in alcohol and drugs recovery, not only focusing on addiction but also anxiety, esteem, rebuilding self, anger issues, and trauma.
Hi. I'm Jayne, Counsellor, Hypno-psychotherapist. I help people find their best selves. I help You identify what You need and how to achieve that. I do this by using many different methods. With my 14 years experience I delve into my trove of knowledge and choose the methods best suited to you. Everyone can know what is best for themselves but in times of; crisis, trauma, anxiety, depression and other issues it is hard to see clearly. With my help you can achieve the goals you want. The reason I do this -I was once in a very dark place myself, it was a counsellor that helped me, I now pass that precious gift forward, by helping You.
I went on to work in alcohol and drugs recovery, not only focusing on addiction but also anxiety, esteem, rebuilding self, anger issues, and trauma.
Hi. I'm Jayne, Counsellor, Hypno-psychotherapist. I help people find their best selves. I help You identify what You need and how to achieve that. I do this by using many different methods. With my 14 years experience I delve into my trove of knowledge and choose the methods best suited to you. Everyone can know what is best for themselves but in times of; crisis, trauma, anxiety, depression and other issues it is hard to see clearly. With my help you can achieve the goals you want. The reason I do this -I was once in a very dark place myself, it was a counsellor that helped me, I now pass that precious gift forward, by helping You.
01253 835195 View 01253 835195
Photo of Jim Maxwell, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Jim Maxwell
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lytham Saint Annes FY8
Hi, my name is Jim and I am an accredited CBT Therapist and Coach. I like to keep things simple and structured as I work with clients to help them get back on track by looking at Unhealthy Thoughts, Beliefs, Behaviours and Emotions that keep people stuck in life. The list of problems that I treat is endless, however common presenting areas that I see and treat are Anxiety, Addiction,Panic, Stress, Grief, Abuse, Trauma, Low Self Esteem, Relationship issues, Depression, Anger, Panic, OCD, Addiction and Personality Disorders. Feel free to visit my website or call for a free / no obligation 20 min. consultation.
Hi, my name is Jim and I am an accredited CBT Therapist and Coach. I like to keep things simple and structured as I work with clients to help them get back on track by looking at Unhealthy Thoughts, Beliefs, Behaviours and Emotions that keep people stuck in life. The list of problems that I treat is endless, however common presenting areas that I see and treat are Anxiety, Addiction,Panic, Stress, Grief, Abuse, Trauma, Low Self Esteem, Relationship issues, Depression, Anger, Panic, OCD, Addiction and Personality Disorders. Feel free to visit my website or call for a free / no obligation 20 min. consultation.
01253 835578 View 01253 835578
Photo of Sarah Lee, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Sarah Lee
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Lytham Saint Annes FY8
I'm a Psychotherapist (Psychodynamic Trained) and I've been in practice for 17 + years. I'm experienced in counselling Low mood, Anxiety, Trauma, Addiction, Family dynamics, Relationships, LGBTQIA+ , Loss & Grief, Cancer and Progressive illnesses and I have extensive understanding in hospice care. I also have extensive experience in Counselling Children and young people aged 5 years+ Please Text, email or phone me and I will get back to you as quickly as possible.
I'm a Psychotherapist (Psychodynamic Trained) and I've been in practice for 17 + years. I'm experienced in counselling Low mood, Anxiety, Trauma, Addiction, Family dynamics, Relationships, LGBTQIA+ , Loss & Grief, Cancer and Progressive illnesses and I have extensive understanding in hospice care. I also have extensive experience in Counselling Children and young people aged 5 years+ Please Text, email or phone me and I will get back to you as quickly as possible.
01253 835346 View 01253 835346
Photo of Sallie Scott, MA, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Sallie Scott
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Lytham Saint Annes FY8
I am a BACP Accredited counsellor with extensive experience of working with adults, couples, young people and families. Everyone experiences trauma in life and at times it can feel like there is no light at the end of the tunnel. Past and present stresses such as bereavement, abuse, family breakdown, self harming and depression can feel overwhelming and effective counselling can help a person to regain control of his or her life. The relationship between the client and counsellor is paramount to effective therapy. I am qualified, experienced, confidential, good humoured and above all, enthusiastic and dedicated to counselling.
I am a BACP Accredited counsellor with extensive experience of working with adults, couples, young people and families. Everyone experiences trauma in life and at times it can feel like there is no light at the end of the tunnel. Past and present stresses such as bereavement, abuse, family breakdown, self harming and depression can feel overwhelming and effective counselling can help a person to regain control of his or her life. The relationship between the client and counsellor is paramount to effective therapy. I am qualified, experienced, confidential, good humoured and above all, enthusiastic and dedicated to counselling.
07411 249410 View 07411 249410
Photo of Christina Power - Mind Power Consulting, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Mind Power Consulting
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Lytham Saint Annes FY8
Hello, my name is Christina, I'm a Clinical Psychologist specialising in helping adults who are experiencing significant life transitions and those looking to achieve life goals. My specialisms are anxiety and ADHD. I have 13 yrs + experience in the NHS. I offer a friendly and approachable private psychology service. My focus is on providing evidence based interventions and practical psychological support and solution focused strategies. We will work together to support you to work towards your goals, in accordance with your values, to help you get to where you want to be.
Hello, my name is Christina, I'm a Clinical Psychologist specialising in helping adults who are experiencing significant life transitions and those looking to achieve life goals. My specialisms are anxiety and ADHD. I have 13 yrs + experience in the NHS. I offer a friendly and approachable private psychology service. My focus is on providing evidence based interventions and practical psychological support and solution focused strategies. We will work together to support you to work towards your goals, in accordance with your values, to help you get to where you want to be.
01772 595350 View 01772 595350
Photo of David Kinvig, MSc, BACP, Psychotherapist
David Kinvig
Psychotherapist, MSc, BACP
Verified Verified
Lytham Saint Annes FY8
I am trained in a range of modalities including CBT, Mindfulness and Systemic Family Therapy. As an accredited Psychotherapist and Supervisor I work across the full spectrum of psychological disorders. I have particular interest in Trauma, OCD, Eating Disorders, High End Groups and Personality Disorders. I work with Autism, Learning Disabilities and Bereavement. I have a passion for working with suicidal people, survivors of suicide, families/friends of those whom live with the aftermath of suicide. I am an experienced couples and family therapist. I am skilled in multi agency working. I am experienced in working with prisoners.
I am trained in a range of modalities including CBT, Mindfulness and Systemic Family Therapy. As an accredited Psychotherapist and Supervisor I work across the full spectrum of psychological disorders. I have particular interest in Trauma, OCD, Eating Disorders, High End Groups and Personality Disorders. I work with Autism, Learning Disabilities and Bereavement. I have a passion for working with suicidal people, survivors of suicide, families/friends of those whom live with the aftermath of suicide. I am an experienced couples and family therapist. I am skilled in multi agency working. I am experienced in working with prisoners.
01253 335645 View 01253 335645
Photo of Lesley-Anne Brocklehurst - L A Counselling Ltd, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
L A Counselling Ltd
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Lytham Saint Annes FY8
You may want to cover an experience in your life or understand why you are having unwanted thoughts/feelings and patterns of behaviour. Feeling weighed down by life, perhaps feeling sad, anxious, overwhelmed or even trapped by negative thoughts. It can be hard to see the light during these dark times; this is where Counselling can help, We will explore these issues in a safe space together at your own pace. Our sessions are client led and it is for that reason we can work at a pace that suits you, so no need to feel rushed.
You may want to cover an experience in your life or understand why you are having unwanted thoughts/feelings and patterns of behaviour. Feeling weighed down by life, perhaps feeling sad, anxious, overwhelmed or even trapped by negative thoughts. It can be hard to see the light during these dark times; this is where Counselling can help, We will explore these issues in a safe space together at your own pace. Our sessions are client led and it is for that reason we can work at a pace that suits you, so no need to feel rushed.
01253 335613 View 01253 335613
Photo of Andrea Davis, MBACP, Counsellor
Andrea Davis
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Lytham Saint Annes FY8
Sometimes life can just get too much! We can feel overwhelmed with strong emotions and not really know how to work with them. Are you feeling anxious, stressed, depressed, bereft, suffering with low mood? Counselling can help you explore these emotions and help you find a way forward and gain control again. Choosing the right Counsellor is very important and can be difficult especially when you are experiencing testing times. Friends aren't always the answer, so perhaps counselling would help. You deserve to be the best version of you that you can be so take that step and let me help you! Call me for a free phone consultation.
Sometimes life can just get too much! We can feel overwhelmed with strong emotions and not really know how to work with them. Are you feeling anxious, stressed, depressed, bereft, suffering with low mood? Counselling can help you explore these emotions and help you find a way forward and gain control again. Choosing the right Counsellor is very important and can be difficult especially when you are experiencing testing times. Friends aren't always the answer, so perhaps counselling would help. You deserve to be the best version of you that you can be so take that step and let me help you! Call me for a free phone consultation.
01253 335082 View 01253 335082
Photo of Lindsey Schofield, MBACP, Counsellor
Lindsey Schofield
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Lytham Saint Annes FY8
Hi, my name is Lindsey. I am a fully qualified & registered Psychotherapeutic Counsellor. Seeking professional support is not a sign of weakness or vulnerability and can be a positive empowering choice to make. My role is to work alongside you to offer a safe, fully supportive space for therapeutic change, sharing healthy life skills, tools & techniques to cope with whatever your life experiences may be or have been- to support you to challenge & overcome unhealthy thoughts & behaviour.
Hi, my name is Lindsey. I am a fully qualified & registered Psychotherapeutic Counsellor. Seeking professional support is not a sign of weakness or vulnerability and can be a positive empowering choice to make. My role is to work alongside you to offer a safe, fully supportive space for therapeutic change, sharing healthy life skills, tools & techniques to cope with whatever your life experiences may be or have been- to support you to challenge & overcome unhealthy thoughts & behaviour.
01253 335711 View 01253 335711
Photo of Sharon Doherty - Sharon Doherty - TherapyHear, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Sharon Doherty - TherapyHear
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Lytham Saint Annes FY8
Hello I'm Sharon. If you are thinking about the changes you would like we could find a way through together. I offer in person, video or telephone sessions. In person sessions take place at Natures Way, Preston, a relaxing and welcoming space. I specialise in working with stress, anxiety, depression, identity and relationships. I work with people with complex issues such as trauma and grief. I can help you gain understanding, explore behaviours and thoughts. I also focus working on your sense of self, resilience and self-esteem. From experience I know I can provide a comfortable space, where you feel at ease quickly.
Hello I'm Sharon. If you are thinking about the changes you would like we could find a way through together. I offer in person, video or telephone sessions. In person sessions take place at Natures Way, Preston, a relaxing and welcoming space. I specialise in working with stress, anxiety, depression, identity and relationships. I work with people with complex issues such as trauma and grief. I can help you gain understanding, explore behaviours and thoughts. I also focus working on your sense of self, resilience and self-esteem. From experience I know I can provide a comfortable space, where you feel at ease quickly.
01722 548396 View 01722 548396

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Hayley Jane Trevalyan, MBACP, Counsellor
Hayley Jane Trevalyan
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Southport PR8
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 Stephen Pattinson - Counselling Psychotherapy Services, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Stephen Pattinson - Counselling Psychotherapy Services
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blackpool FY1  (Online Only)
I specialise in the treatment of addiction which I have written/ developed and delivered many successful treatment programmes over the past 20 years that are used in the community, prisons, and rehabs and one to one settings.
Hello if you want a safe and caring environment and want to take back control in your life you have come to the right place. I have over 25 years experience of helping people with their mental wellbeing. I have worked for mental health services including NHS as a cognitive behavioural/ Psychodynamic therapist treating depression, anxiety, confidence, self esteem, bereavement and phobia disorders. my aim is to help people back on their feet as soon as possible and feel empowered from the first session. I offer a free 30 minute consultation online from the comfort your own safe space to clearly identify your personal goals /treatment.
I specialise in the treatment of addiction which I have written/ developed and delivered many successful treatment programmes over the past 20 years that are used in the community, prisons, and rehabs and one to one settings.
Hello if you want a safe and caring environment and want to take back control in your life you have come to the right place. I have over 25 years experience of helping people with their mental wellbeing. I have worked for mental health services including NHS as a cognitive behavioural/ Psychodynamic therapist treating depression, anxiety, confidence, self esteem, bereavement and phobia disorders. my aim is to help people back on their feet as soon as possible and feel empowered from the first session. I offer a free 30 minute consultation online from the comfort your own safe space to clearly identify your personal goals /treatment.
07380 316751 View 07380 316751
Photo of Aimee Hudson, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Aimee Hudson
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Longton PR4
In addition, I also have practitioner experience with trauma, bereavement and loss, anger-management, addiction and substance misuse.
As an integrative practitioner, I work with a broad range of adult clients, able to tailor our sessions to whatever concerns or circumstances you feel you may need help with. I offer a free telephone consultation to help us decide if working together will be right for you and this will last approximately half an hour.
In addition, I also have practitioner experience with trauma, bereavement and loss, anger-management, addiction and substance misuse.
As an integrative practitioner, I work with a broad range of adult clients, able to tailor our sessions to whatever concerns or circumstances you feel you may need help with. I offer a free telephone consultation to help us decide if working together will be right for you and this will last approximately half an hour.
01772 283884 View 01772 283884
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 Emma Wheeler, MBACP, Counsellor
Emma Wheeler
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Blackpool FY1  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, bereavement, addiction, anxiety, or major life changes? In this unsettling time of isolation and lockdowns do you need someone to talk to? There comes a time when we need some help to cope with many of life’s challenges. I’m a qualified Therapist and here to walk with you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. Life can be overwhelming and sometimes even exhausting, but I’m here to discuss and explore with you through any obstacles you may face.
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, bereavement, addiction, anxiety, or major life changes? In this unsettling time of isolation and lockdowns do you need someone to talk to? There comes a time when we need some help to cope with many of life’s challenges. I’m a qualified Therapist and here to walk with you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. Life can be overwhelming and sometimes even exhausting, but I’m here to discuss and explore with you through any obstacles you may face.
01253 335088 View 01253 335088
Photo of Pam Burke, BACP, Counsellor
Pam Burke
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Blackpool FY1
I offer Psychotherapy and ounselling which are often interchangeable and also Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) for more deep-rooted trauma. By engaging in a therapeutic relationship with me, you are safe in the knowledge that what you say will be respectfully listened to and you will not be judged in any way. I work face-to-face and online, with individuals and couples. I am also a Registered Mental Nurse with over 30 years experience prior to qualifying as a therapist, so I have helped people with all degrees of mental health problems. My areas of interest are substance misuse, addictive behaviour and trauma.
I offer Psychotherapy and ounselling which are often interchangeable and also Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) for more deep-rooted trauma. By engaging in a therapeutic relationship with me, you are safe in the knowledge that what you say will be respectfully listened to and you will not be judged in any way. I work face-to-face and online, with individuals and couples. I am also a Registered Mental Nurse with over 30 years experience prior to qualifying as a therapist, so I have helped people with all degrees of mental health problems. My areas of interest are substance misuse, addictive behaviour and trauma.
01772 419563 View 01772 419563
Photo of Rizwan Rehman, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Rizwan Rehman
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Preston PR4
I have worked with people of all ages and background who have suffered from a wide variety of health conditions such as depression, anxiety, grief, stress, and low self-esteem, as well as physical ailments such as substance misuse and alcohol dependency.
Welcome,     I'm Rizwan. I am a qualified counsellor and psychotherapist here to help you.   I believe the path to positive change is easier when you have the right support in place. That’s why I take a person-centred approach to therapy, where your voice and concerns are the focus of the therapy. This may seem obvious at first look, but it means that the support you receive will be tailored for your needs. It also means is that your life will be at the forefront of all our conversations, because when you have someone working with you, making sure your voice is heard and your needs are met, life is much is easier to live.
I have worked with people of all ages and background who have suffered from a wide variety of health conditions such as depression, anxiety, grief, stress, and low self-esteem, as well as physical ailments such as substance misuse and alcohol dependency.
Welcome,     I'm Rizwan. I am a qualified counsellor and psychotherapist here to help you.   I believe the path to positive change is easier when you have the right support in place. That’s why I take a person-centred approach to therapy, where your voice and concerns are the focus of the therapy. This may seem obvious at first look, but it means that the support you receive will be tailored for your needs. It also means is that your life will be at the forefront of all our conversations, because when you have someone working with you, making sure your voice is heard and your needs are met, life is much is easier to live.
01282 953056 View 01282 953056
Photo of Gillian Scott - Lighthouse Counselling Services, BACP, Counsellor
Lighthouse Counselling Services
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Blackpool FY4
For the past 2 years I have been a volunteer counsellor with Counselling in the Community, a charity in Blackpool providing me with experience of loss, bereavement, depression, anxiety, addiction and relationship issues .
No one ever said life would be easy and at times we all need a little help to find our way through life's difficulties. Person-centred counselling offers you the non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts, feelings and emotions in a safe, supported way. As a person-centred counsellor I will not tell you what to do or tell you that your thinking is wrong. Instead I will be there beside you to help you find your own solution. To help you build your self-esteem, trust your own decision-making abilities, and learn to love yourself for who you really are.
For the past 2 years I have been a volunteer counsellor with Counselling in the Community, a charity in Blackpool providing me with experience of loss, bereavement, depression, anxiety, addiction and relationship issues .
No one ever said life would be easy and at times we all need a little help to find our way through life's difficulties. Person-centred counselling offers you the non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts, feelings and emotions in a safe, supported way. As a person-centred counsellor I will not tell you what to do or tell you that your thinking is wrong. Instead I will be there beside you to help you find your own solution. To help you build your self-esteem, trust your own decision-making abilities, and learn to love yourself for who you really are.
01253 835744 View 01253 835744
Photo of Alan Kirby - Southport Bereavement Counselling Service, BACP, Counsellor
Southport Bereavement Counselling Service
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Southport PR9
At Southport Bereavement Counselling Service I offer a FREE No-Obligation first session and assessment. I know from personal experience how devastating grief can affect daily life, and how difficult it can be to even make a phone call and ask for help. I offer a safe and calm environment without any judgement. Bereavement is something we all experience in our lives in one form or another. Often the grief may be clouded in anxiety or depression, and you may be experiencing your own loss of identity, lack of confidence, and loneliness.
At Southport Bereavement Counselling Service I offer a FREE No-Obligation first session and assessment. I know from personal experience how devastating grief can affect daily life, and how difficult it can be to even make a phone call and ask for help. I offer a safe and calm environment without any judgement. Bereavement is something we all experience in our lives in one form or another. Often the grief may be clouded in anxiety or depression, and you may be experiencing your own loss of identity, lack of confidence, and loneliness.
01704 331171 View 01704 331171

See more therapy options for Lytham Saint Annes

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.