Addiction Therapists in York, PA

Photo of Gene Middleton, CADC, CIP, CEAP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Gene Middleton
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC, CIP, CEAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York, PA 17404
Having lived through addiction myself I know first hand how you feel and what you may be going through.
Having worked in the field of Alcoholism and Chemical Dependency and treatment for over 35 years, I lived through the disease of addiction myself. Today, helping individuals and families from all walks of life to be able to receive the help they need I believe that experiencing the horrors of the illness first hand far better prepared me to help those in need than the years of professional training that have followed. Today, fortunate to have lived the past 40 + years in my own recovery, I remain forever grateful to those who cared enough to help me at a time when I could not help myself.
Having lived through addiction myself I know first hand how you feel and what you may be going through.
Having worked in the field of Alcoholism and Chemical Dependency and treatment for over 35 years, I lived through the disease of addiction myself. Today, helping individuals and families from all walks of life to be able to receive the help they need I believe that experiencing the horrors of the illness first hand far better prepared me to help those in need than the years of professional training that have followed. Today, fortunate to have lived the past 40 + years in my own recovery, I remain forever grateful to those who cared enough to help me at a time when I could not help myself.
(570) 731-8365 View (570) 731-8365
Photo of Patrick James Schuler, LCSW, LAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patrick James Schuler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York, PA 17402  (Online Only)
I’m also a licensed Addiction Counselor; this practice has provided me the opportunity to work with individuals struggling with a substance abuse, ranging from inpatient treatment, to people who are just starting to question their substance use patterns.
My counseling experiences over the years have been incredibly enriching and meaningful. I am continually moved by the varying degrees of challenging life experiences that we are all tasked with navigating and the ways we attempt to cope, gain insight from, and hopefully transform our adverse circumstances. I’ve had the opportunity to assist a diverse range of clients in both inpatient treatment and outpatient therapy settings. Within these programs I’ve helped clients address anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, academic challenges, relationships, identity changes, sexuality, and general life stressors.
I’m also a licensed Addiction Counselor; this practice has provided me the opportunity to work with individuals struggling with a substance abuse, ranging from inpatient treatment, to people who are just starting to question their substance use patterns.
My counseling experiences over the years have been incredibly enriching and meaningful. I am continually moved by the varying degrees of challenging life experiences that we are all tasked with navigating and the ways we attempt to cope, gain insight from, and hopefully transform our adverse circumstances. I’ve had the opportunity to assist a diverse range of clients in both inpatient treatment and outpatient therapy settings. Within these programs I’ve helped clients address anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, academic challenges, relationships, identity changes, sexuality, and general life stressors.
(717) 400-6294 View (717) 400-6294
Photo of Penny Pennachi, CCS, CIP, CADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Penny Pennachi
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CCS, CIP, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
York, PA 17404
I have personally survived childhood dysfunction, addiction, emotional, physical, mental, sexual and religious abuse.
My passion is to assist people from all walks of life with embracing hope, healing and vision. Individual's and families impacted by addiction's, trauma and mental health issues often have difficulty with finding and honoring their own truth. " To thy own self be true". Healthy living is a by-product of healthy boundaries and consistent self-care. Let me help you to identify and overcome the barriers that are preventing you from living a happy, productive and fulfilled life!
I have personally survived childhood dysfunction, addiction, emotional, physical, mental, sexual and religious abuse.
My passion is to assist people from all walks of life with embracing hope, healing and vision. Individual's and families impacted by addiction's, trauma and mental health issues often have difficulty with finding and honoring their own truth. " To thy own self be true". Healthy living is a by-product of healthy boundaries and consistent self-care. Let me help you to identify and overcome the barriers that are preventing you from living a happy, productive and fulfilled life!
(570) 556-4541 View (570) 556-4541
Photo of Heather Wallick, ANP-BC, CRNP
Heather Wallick
ANP-BC, CRNP
Verified Verified
York, PA 17403  (Online Only)
I am a graduate of York College of Pennsylvania. I obtained both my undergraduate degree in Science of Nursing (2006) and my graduate degree in Science of Nursing (2012). My clinical training was completed at WellSpan and UPMC healthcare systems. I have 24 years of nursing experience with the last 10 years as an adult nurse practitioner practicing in the areas of Dermatology, Internal Medicine, AdulGeri Psych, Substance Abuse Treatment/Addictions and Medication Assistant Treatment, Pain Management, to name a few.
I am a graduate of York College of Pennsylvania. I obtained both my undergraduate degree in Science of Nursing (2006) and my graduate degree in Science of Nursing (2012). My clinical training was completed at WellSpan and UPMC healthcare systems. I have 24 years of nursing experience with the last 10 years as an adult nurse practitioner practicing in the areas of Dermatology, Internal Medicine, AdulGeri Psych, Substance Abuse Treatment/Addictions and Medication Assistant Treatment, Pain Management, to name a few.
(717) 616-2919 View (717) 616-2919
Chad Shaeffer
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA,CADC
Verified Verified
York, PA 17403
When you are trapped within the jaws of addiction, the hope of escape and recovery seems absolutely impossible. Sometimes you are tempted to just "throw in the towel" and surrender to the thought that you are destined to be an "addict" for the rest of your life--that you just don't have what it takes to change. But based on my own personal background, years of hands-on experience, and education, I can assure you that this defeatist feeling is wrong, although understandable.
When you are trapped within the jaws of addiction, the hope of escape and recovery seems absolutely impossible. Sometimes you are tempted to just "throw in the towel" and surrender to the thought that you are destined to be an "addict" for the rest of your life--that you just don't have what it takes to change. But based on my own personal background, years of hands-on experience, and education, I can assure you that this defeatist feeling is wrong, although understandable.
(717) 674-3864 View (717) 674-3864
Photo of Kathyrn R Maz - Kathryn R, Maz, PsyD., PsyD, CSAT, Psychologist
Kathryn R, Maz, PsyD.
Psychologist, PsyD, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York, PA 17406
I am EMDR trained through the EMDRA approved EMDR Basic Training Program, a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and have completed the beginner level training in Somatic Experiencing.
For over 35 years I have been honored with the experience of helping individuals being held back by addictions, anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. I seek to provide a judgement free, in-depth understanding of my clients' journeys, provide tools for increasing self esteem, understanding and effectively experiencing emotions, and challenging difficult behavioral patterns. I assist couples in reconciling the hurts of the past and moving towards shared unity and deeper intimacy. Some of the areas I specifically specialize in include: substance abuse, sexual addictions, anger, trauma, self injury, and LGBTQIA issues.
I am EMDR trained through the EMDRA approved EMDR Basic Training Program, a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and have completed the beginner level training in Somatic Experiencing.
For over 35 years I have been honored with the experience of helping individuals being held back by addictions, anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. I seek to provide a judgement free, in-depth understanding of my clients' journeys, provide tools for increasing self esteem, understanding and effectively experiencing emotions, and challenging difficult behavioral patterns. I assist couples in reconciling the hurts of the past and moving towards shared unity and deeper intimacy. Some of the areas I specifically specialize in include: substance abuse, sexual addictions, anger, trauma, self injury, and LGBTQIA issues.
(717) 208-8197 View (717) 208-8197
Photo of E. Renea Snyder, MS, MAC, ICAADC, CCTP, CCFAS
E. Renea Snyder
MS, MAC, ICAADC, CCTP, CCFAS
Not Verified Not Verified
York, PA 17315
Life has some difficult challenges and when we encounter the barriers to overcome traumatic experiences, domestic abuse, addiction, you are far from alone.
Renea Snyder is focused on evidence based holistic treatment for those afflicted with the disease of addiction, trauma, and forensics. Renea is an advocate and survivor for addictions treatment, trauma services, and domestic abuse. Renea offers a safe non-judgment free environment where accurate evidence based assessments are conducted for forensic evaluations.
Life has some difficult challenges and when we encounter the barriers to overcome traumatic experiences, domestic abuse, addiction, you are far from alone.
Renea Snyder is focused on evidence based holistic treatment for those afflicted with the disease of addiction, trauma, and forensics. Renea is an advocate and survivor for addictions treatment, trauma services, and domestic abuse. Renea offers a safe non-judgment free environment where accurate evidence based assessments are conducted for forensic evaluations.
(717) 985-7307 View (717) 985-7307
Photo of Matt Kramer - Tangents Therapy, Matt Kramer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tangents Therapy, Matt Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
York, PA 17403
Congratulations! You've taken this first, courageous step toward creating a new direction for your life. No doubt you may be feeling a bit anxious about attending therapy if this is a new experience for you. That's perfectly understandable. I want to assure you that you'll be treated with empathy, kindness and respect no matter what issues you may be facing. I am experienced and committed to assisting individuals, couples and families with issues such as anxiety, depression, marital conflict, infidelity, sexual dysfunction, addiction, trauma, abuse, and behavior issues and would welcome the opportunity to collaborate with you.
Congratulations! You've taken this first, courageous step toward creating a new direction for your life. No doubt you may be feeling a bit anxious about attending therapy if this is a new experience for you. That's perfectly understandable. I want to assure you that you'll be treated with empathy, kindness and respect no matter what issues you may be facing. I am experienced and committed to assisting individuals, couples and families with issues such as anxiety, depression, marital conflict, infidelity, sexual dysfunction, addiction, trauma, abuse, and behavior issues and would welcome the opportunity to collaborate with you.
(717) 527-7626 View (717) 527-7626
Photo of Danielle Heist, LPC, CAADC, SAP, CT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Heist
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC, SAP, CT
Verified Verified
York, PA 17403
I understand how overwhelming life’s challenges can feel, whether you’re navigating a major transition or struggling with anxiety, grief, or addiction.
Most clients I work with are navigating life transitions, such as divorce, job changes, or recovering from addiction, and facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or grief. They seek support to regain control, improve coping skills, and set healthy boundaries. Their goals are to find balance, reduce stress, rebuild self-esteem, and feel more empowered in their relationships. They want a non-judgmental space where they can be heard and supported while learning practical tools to integrate positive changes into their daily lives for lasting emotional resilience.
I understand how overwhelming life’s challenges can feel, whether you’re navigating a major transition or struggling with anxiety, grief, or addiction.
Most clients I work with are navigating life transitions, such as divorce, job changes, or recovering from addiction, and facing challenges like anxiety, depression, or grief. They seek support to regain control, improve coping skills, and set healthy boundaries. Their goals are to find balance, reduce stress, rebuild self-esteem, and feel more empowered in their relationships. They want a non-judgmental space where they can be heard and supported while learning practical tools to integrate positive changes into their daily lives for lasting emotional resilience.
(717) 864-5127 View (717) 864-5127
Photo of Andrea Henry, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Henry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
York, PA 17402  (Online Only)
Welcome! Whether you are struggling through a difficult time, looking to better understand yourself, or simply need an objective ear to listen, I am here to help! I am a licensed professional counselor in the states of Pennsylvania and Virginia, and am available via telehealth. I have a background in treating mood disorders, anxiety, substance use, and adjustment disorders.
Welcome! Whether you are struggling through a difficult time, looking to better understand yourself, or simply need an objective ear to listen, I am here to help! I am a licensed professional counselor in the states of Pennsylvania and Virginia, and am available via telehealth. I have a background in treating mood disorders, anxiety, substance use, and adjustment disorders.
(717) 256-1040 View (717) 256-1040
Photo of Matt May, MSPC, PhD, ABD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Matt May
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSPC, PhD, ABD
Verified Verified
York, PA 17402
I specialize in men's issues, addiction, couples, family, and adolescents.
I am a therapist at Eagles Counseling. I have experience working with children, adolescents, couples, and/or families in individual, family, and group settings. I have previously worked as a regional supervisor of an intensive therapy program troubled youth and truancy program. My goal is to improve behavioral problems, mental/emotional difficulties, and overall functionality. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as in Motivational Interviewing. I chose to become a mental health professional, because I felt called to help others improve to become the best person possible.
I specialize in men's issues, addiction, couples, family, and adolescents.
I am a therapist at Eagles Counseling. I have experience working with children, adolescents, couples, and/or families in individual, family, and group settings. I have previously worked as a regional supervisor of an intensive therapy program troubled youth and truancy program. My goal is to improve behavioral problems, mental/emotional difficulties, and overall functionality. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as in Motivational Interviewing. I chose to become a mental health professional, because I felt called to help others improve to become the best person possible.
(717) 912-9604 View (717) 912-9604
Photo of Jennifer Ahlers, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Ahlers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
York, PA 17401
I have experience with various diagnoses and have worked with clients aged 8 and above. I specialize in trauma disorders, substance use, abuse and dependence, dual diagnosis and borderline personality disorder. I offer different treatment modalities to address symptoms and core issues relating to these issues.
I have experience with various diagnoses and have worked with clients aged 8 and above. I specialize in trauma disorders, substance use, abuse and dependence, dual diagnosis and borderline personality disorder. I offer different treatment modalities to address symptoms and core issues relating to these issues.
(717) 967-8276 View (717) 967-8276
Photo of Debra Stambaugh, MA, MSW, LCSW, CT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Stambaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York, PA 17408
Waitlist for new clients
My experience includes working with grief, loss, anticipatory grief and trauma. Anxiety, panic and mood disorders. Lifestyle concerns and modifications including chronic illness, pain and co-occurring (mental health and substance abuse) disorders. I am certified in thanatology (death, dying & bereavement) from the Association of Death Education and Counseling (ADEC). I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) from EMDRA.
My experience includes working with grief, loss, anticipatory grief and trauma. Anxiety, panic and mood disorders. Lifestyle concerns and modifications including chronic illness, pain and co-occurring (mental health and substance abuse) disorders. I am certified in thanatology (death, dying & bereavement) from the Association of Death Education and Counseling (ADEC). I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) from EMDRA.
(847) 278-9406 View (847) 278-9406
Photo of Karah Molesevich, LPC, EdS, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karah Molesevich
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS, MS
Verified Verified
York, PA 17403
If you are frustrated by anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, stress, or pain, you are in the right place to work through these issues.
Congratulations on starting your best life! Therapy will help you to achieve your goals in a supportive and nonjudgmental setting. If you are frustrated by anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, stress, or pain, you are in the right place to work through these issues. Sessions are relaxed and client centered. You set the tone for what you want to work on in each session. If you are not sure where to start, I can use techniques to guide you in the right direction. You will always leave with activities and concepts to reflect on between visits and will be surprised how quickly you will gain new tools to make meaningful changes.
If you are frustrated by anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, stress, or pain, you are in the right place to work through these issues.
Congratulations on starting your best life! Therapy will help you to achieve your goals in a supportive and nonjudgmental setting. If you are frustrated by anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, stress, or pain, you are in the right place to work through these issues. Sessions are relaxed and client centered. You set the tone for what you want to work on in each session. If you are not sure where to start, I can use techniques to guide you in the right direction. You will always leave with activities and concepts to reflect on between visits and will be surprised how quickly you will gain new tools to make meaningful changes.
View
Photo of Allison Manning, LPC, CCTP-II, CCATP, CDBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allison Manning
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP-II, CCATP, CDBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York, PA 17401  (Online Only)
I have a passion for working with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, trauma, addiction, infertility, and chronic illness.
Hi! I'm Allie. If you’re looking for therapy that’s meaningful and as unique as you are, you’ve come to the right place. My approach is warm, collaborative, and infused with a bit of humor - because sometimes, a light-hearted moment can make all the difference in healing. I’m certified in trauma treatment, anxiety treatment, CBT, and DBT. Whether you’re coping with past wounds, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, or trying to find some balance in your day-to-day life, we'll create an individualized plan that's right for you. I believe that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process and I’m committed to finding what works best for you.
I have a passion for working with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, trauma, addiction, infertility, and chronic illness.
Hi! I'm Allie. If you’re looking for therapy that’s meaningful and as unique as you are, you’ve come to the right place. My approach is warm, collaborative, and infused with a bit of humor - because sometimes, a light-hearted moment can make all the difference in healing. I’m certified in trauma treatment, anxiety treatment, CBT, and DBT. Whether you’re coping with past wounds, feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, or trying to find some balance in your day-to-day life, we'll create an individualized plan that's right for you. I believe that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all process and I’m committed to finding what works best for you.
(610) 580-0431 View (610) 580-0431
Photo of Allison R. Soellner, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allison R. Soellner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
York, PA 17315
I believe that all individuals deserve a safe, warm and inviting environment to work on goals that make change possible. My goal in the therapeutic process is to allow individuals to explore in a supportive, collaborative manner. I incorporate person-centered therapy where clients have the ability to process, create goals and ignite change into their lives, whether that be mentally, emotionally or spiritually. I enjoy working with individuals who are 11 and older that may be struggling in areas that include anxiety, relationships, substance use, life stress, trauma and other topics that may arise during the journey of therapy.
I believe that all individuals deserve a safe, warm and inviting environment to work on goals that make change possible. My goal in the therapeutic process is to allow individuals to explore in a supportive, collaborative manner. I incorporate person-centered therapy where clients have the ability to process, create goals and ignite change into their lives, whether that be mentally, emotionally or spiritually. I enjoy working with individuals who are 11 and older that may be struggling in areas that include anxiety, relationships, substance use, life stress, trauma and other topics that may arise during the journey of therapy.
(717) 864-4980 View (717) 864-4980
Photo of Brittni Pham, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittni Pham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
York, PA 17403
I am experienced in treating: Sexual/emotional trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship/marital issues, parenting challenges, stress management, sleep, grief and loss, military veteran-related issues, chronic pain/physical disorders, domestic violence, addictions, substance use, self-harm, suicide ideation, and autism/social skills.
It takes courage to seek help and be willing to talk with a therapist. I believe therapy should be a lively experience, one where the client and counselor have a connection and understanding, allowing clients to grow and achieve their goals. I embrace an eclectic style of psychotherapy, using numerous theories, humor, and creative art techniques. My philosophy encompasses giving individuals strategies and skills for improving their relationships; coping with current life challenges; as well as working through past traumas.
I am experienced in treating: Sexual/emotional trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship/marital issues, parenting challenges, stress management, sleep, grief and loss, military veteran-related issues, chronic pain/physical disorders, domestic violence, addictions, substance use, self-harm, suicide ideation, and autism/social skills.
It takes courage to seek help and be willing to talk with a therapist. I believe therapy should be a lively experience, one where the client and counselor have a connection and understanding, allowing clients to grow and achieve their goals. I embrace an eclectic style of psychotherapy, using numerous theories, humor, and creative art techniques. My philosophy encompasses giving individuals strategies and skills for improving their relationships; coping with current life challenges; as well as working through past traumas.
(717) 716-5936 View (717) 716-5936
Photo of Sabra Madsen, PsyD, Psychologist
Sabra Madsen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
York, PA 17402
I am a doctorate level, licensed psychologist trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with over thirty years of experience. Services include outpatient therapy, psychological/ neuropsychological testing, and concussion management. I am most comfortable working with ages 18 and up, but will work with older teens who are motivated and children 6 and up for testing. My approach is genuine, goal-directed and warm. If you are looking for a psychologist who is energetic, warm, and structured, we would most likely work well together. Feel free to call if you have any questions before setting up an appointment.
I am a doctorate level, licensed psychologist trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with over thirty years of experience. Services include outpatient therapy, psychological/ neuropsychological testing, and concussion management. I am most comfortable working with ages 18 and up, but will work with older teens who are motivated and children 6 and up for testing. My approach is genuine, goal-directed and warm. If you are looking for a psychologist who is energetic, warm, and structured, we would most likely work well together. Feel free to call if you have any questions before setting up an appointment.
(717) 589-4304 View (717) 589-4304
Photo of Christian Counseling Associates Of Central Pennsylvania, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates Of Central Pennsylvania
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
York, PA 17408
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(717) 535-8046 View (717) 535-8046
Photo of Christian Counseling Associates Of Central Pennsylvania, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates Of Central Pennsylvania
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
York, PA 17408
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(717) 931-6722 View (717) 931-6722
1
Addiction Therapists

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.