Addiction Therapists in Tuscaloosa, AL

Photo of Greer Jones, MS, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Greer Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Waitlist for new clients
Although my passions are addiction recovery and prenatal/postpartum work, I work with clients and their families facing a myriad of issues: marital conflict, infidelity, grief and bereavement, life transitions, and substance abuse, to name a handful.
I love working with those who are ready to make a change in their lives. I think trust and comfort are the two most important factors when choosing a therapist. For real progress to happen, the therapist has to be a good fit for you. I think each client comes in with individual and specific challenges, meaning therapy has to be tailored to fit each client. I'd love to be able to take the time to figure out what is happening for you and what can be helpful in overcoming obstacles.
Although my passions are addiction recovery and prenatal/postpartum work, I work with clients and their families facing a myriad of issues: marital conflict, infidelity, grief and bereavement, life transitions, and substance abuse, to name a handful.
I love working with those who are ready to make a change in their lives. I think trust and comfort are the two most important factors when choosing a therapist. For real progress to happen, the therapist has to be a good fit for you. I think each client comes in with individual and specific challenges, meaning therapy has to be tailored to fit each client. I'd love to be able to take the time to figure out what is happening for you and what can be helpful in overcoming obstacles.
(205) 512-2487 View (205) 512-2487
Photo of Jordan English Valentim, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jordan English Valentim
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience with substance abuse/recovery and trauma, as well as therapy work with adolescents with depression and anxiety.
Every person has individual, unique experiences that they bring into the room, which means their own therapy needs may look very different than another’s. I am passionate about working alongside clients who are motivated to pursue lasting change in their lives, whether that be processing complex trauma, learning new relationship skills, navigating life transitions, or formulating healthy boundaries and self care practices. It can be painful to talk about and face the things that have brought you to the place you are currently in, but just like resetting a broken bone, the rewards of healing far outweigh the pain of healing!
I have experience with substance abuse/recovery and trauma, as well as therapy work with adolescents with depression and anxiety.
Every person has individual, unique experiences that they bring into the room, which means their own therapy needs may look very different than another’s. I am passionate about working alongside clients who are motivated to pursue lasting change in their lives, whether that be processing complex trauma, learning new relationship skills, navigating life transitions, or formulating healthy boundaries and self care practices. It can be painful to talk about and face the things that have brought you to the place you are currently in, but just like resetting a broken bone, the rewards of healing far outweigh the pain of healing!
(205) 273-5230 View (205) 273-5230
Photo of Anna M. Beatty, LMSW, MFA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna M. Beatty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487
For several years, I worked in an in-patient addiction recovery facility, and I have over nine years combined experience in teaching and in practicing psychotherapy.
Sometimes we feel "stuck" with an unwanted feeling, thought, or behavior. In my practice, I join with you to explore these feelings, with the goal of lessening distress and connecting you to your inner sense of curiosity and compassion. In session, we will use practical techniques to provide you with immediate relief AND we will dig deep, with the goal of healing old emotional wounds that impact your present sense of well-being.
For several years, I worked in an in-patient addiction recovery facility, and I have over nine years combined experience in teaching and in practicing psychotherapy.
Sometimes we feel "stuck" with an unwanted feeling, thought, or behavior. In my practice, I join with you to explore these feelings, with the goal of lessening distress and connecting you to your inner sense of curiosity and compassion. In session, we will use practical techniques to provide you with immediate relief AND we will dig deep, with the goal of healing old emotional wounds that impact your present sense of well-being.
(205) 239-8788 View (205) 239-8788
Photo of Laura Westbrook, MEd, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Westbrook
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487  (Online Only)
My favorite part about being a counselor is getting to know someone and hear their story. It takes a lot of vulnerability to be able to open up to someone else and I am always grateful that my clients trust me with the most intimate parts of their self. I work with a wide array of clients; from LGBTQ+ community members, survivors of trauma, those struggling with addiction and many other issues that affect an individuals quality of life. The ideal client for me is any individual willing to explore the therapeutic process in order to work towards building the life they desire.
My favorite part about being a counselor is getting to know someone and hear their story. It takes a lot of vulnerability to be able to open up to someone else and I am always grateful that my clients trust me with the most intimate parts of their self. I work with a wide array of clients; from LGBTQ+ community members, survivors of trauma, those struggling with addiction and many other issues that affect an individuals quality of life. The ideal client for me is any individual willing to explore the therapeutic process in order to work towards building the life they desire.
(205) 318-2587 View (205) 318-2587
Photo of Savannah Kiesel, ALC, MA, NCC, Counselor
Savannah Kiesel
Counselor, ALC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
I have worked in a mandated setting for 3 years with clients with substance use concerns.
Hello there! Life can be hard at times, but we don't have to do it alone. Congratulations on reaching out and taking the first step toward a better you! I believe counseling can change your life if you let it and anyone can benefit from counseling. My ideal client is someone who understands that counseling isn't always easy, but is ready to start their journey with an open mindset and determination to make themselves better. Counseling is often like healing a wound, it can be uncomfortable, but the healing process can be so rewarding in the long run. I can't wait to walk alongside you!
I have worked in a mandated setting for 3 years with clients with substance use concerns.
Hello there! Life can be hard at times, but we don't have to do it alone. Congratulations on reaching out and taking the first step toward a better you! I believe counseling can change your life if you let it and anyone can benefit from counseling. My ideal client is someone who understands that counseling isn't always easy, but is ready to start their journey with an open mindset and determination to make themselves better. Counseling is often like healing a wound, it can be uncomfortable, but the healing process can be so rewarding in the long run. I can't wait to walk alongside you!
(205) 831-4825 View (205) 831-4825
Photo of Kimberly Tubbs, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Tubbs
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Kimberly Tubbs is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 10 years of counseling experience. Kim graduated from the University of Alabama in 2010 with a focus on marriage and family therapy and counselor education. Kimberly has worked in substance abuse settings, which provides her the opportunity to assist clients with a range of issues. Kimberly also has a background in juvenile justice, domestic violence, family therapy, anger management, and mood disorders. Kimberly prefers to approach therapy with the idea that the client is an expert in their own life and has the ultimate capacity for change.
Kimberly Tubbs is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 10 years of counseling experience. Kim graduated from the University of Alabama in 2010 with a focus on marriage and family therapy and counselor education. Kimberly has worked in substance abuse settings, which provides her the opportunity to assist clients with a range of issues. Kimberly also has a background in juvenile justice, domestic violence, family therapy, anger management, and mood disorders. Kimberly prefers to approach therapy with the idea that the client is an expert in their own life and has the ultimate capacity for change.
(205) 927-4703 View (205) 927-4703
Photo of Carol G Adams - Carol G. Adams, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol G. Adams, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
, Canadian analyst and internationally known author and lecturer, in the fields of addiction, eating disorders, and body/psyche connection.
Carol Adams, LCSW, has trained both nationally and internationally in the fields of Trauma, Eating Disorders, Addictions, Women's Issues, and Depression/Anxiety. Emphasis is placed on the connection between mind and body, as physical illness may sometimes be a manifestation of our psychological state. She integrates mind, body and emotion, so that clients come to experience more harmony and wholeness. In her experience, "we all have within us an enormous potential to heal. We learn to utilize our own inner resources to achieve and maintain a sense of balance, clarity and well-being."
, Canadian analyst and internationally known author and lecturer, in the fields of addiction, eating disorders, and body/psyche connection.
Carol Adams, LCSW, has trained both nationally and internationally in the fields of Trauma, Eating Disorders, Addictions, Women's Issues, and Depression/Anxiety. Emphasis is placed on the connection between mind and body, as physical illness may sometimes be a manifestation of our psychological state. She integrates mind, body and emotion, so that clients come to experience more harmony and wholeness. In her experience, "we all have within us an enormous potential to heal. We learn to utilize our own inner resources to achieve and maintain a sense of balance, clarity and well-being."
(205) 289-3139 View (205) 289-3139
Photo of Dr. Kimberly Jenkins-Richardson, PhD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Kimberly Jenkins-Richardson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with anxiety, mood disorders, grief and loss, substance abuse, relationship concerns, and minority stress and trauma.
I’m so glad you’ve taken the first step towards a better you! Starting is always the most challenging part, and I am excited to assist you along this journey. I am an interactive, solution-focused therapist, and my therapeutic approach aims to provide support and practical feedback to help clients meet their goals. Don't know your goals? No problem! I love helping my clients re-discover how amazing they already are! Next, we work together to figure out an action plan to help you live your best life!
I have experience working with anxiety, mood disorders, grief and loss, substance abuse, relationship concerns, and minority stress and trauma.
I’m so glad you’ve taken the first step towards a better you! Starting is always the most challenging part, and I am excited to assist you along this journey. I am an interactive, solution-focused therapist, and my therapeutic approach aims to provide support and practical feedback to help clients meet their goals. Don't know your goals? No problem! I love helping my clients re-discover how amazing they already are! Next, we work together to figure out an action plan to help you live your best life!
(205) 270-5502 View (205) 270-5502
Photo of Alison Bigham, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alison Bigham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
I can offer solution focused methods to help you overcome your trauma, addiction and other challenges that are preventing you from living a peaceful life.
Hi. My name is Alison. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Alabama. I have over 20 years of experience in the Mental Health field and have provided inpatient and outpatient services to clients with severe mental illness, Substance abuse challenges and issues related to trauma. I am certified in Trauma therapy and trained in EMDR. I have a background providing for victims of domestic violence and educating the community on DV. I use various treatment modalities, designed to treat each individual client based on their needs.
I can offer solution focused methods to help you overcome your trauma, addiction and other challenges that are preventing you from living a peaceful life.
Hi. My name is Alison. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Alabama. I have over 20 years of experience in the Mental Health field and have provided inpatient and outpatient services to clients with severe mental illness, Substance abuse challenges and issues related to trauma. I am certified in Trauma therapy and trained in EMDR. I have a background providing for victims of domestic violence and educating the community on DV. I use various treatment modalities, designed to treat each individual client based on their needs.
(205) 964-9459 View (205) 964-9459
Photo of Jennifer Vanhorn - Perception Counseling Services, LICSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Perception Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
PCS consists of Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSW) in the State of Alabama, who have many years of clinical experience in substance addictions, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, grief, and stress management.
Perception Counseling Services (PCS) strives to provide clients with quality behavioral and mental health counseling where varying perceptions are acknowledged, but challenged to improve client’s personal journey to a healthier future.
PCS consists of Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSW) in the State of Alabama, who have many years of clinical experience in substance addictions, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, grief, and stress management.
Perception Counseling Services (PCS) strives to provide clients with quality behavioral and mental health counseling where varying perceptions are acknowledged, but challenged to improve client’s personal journey to a healthier future.
(205) 462-7079 View (205) 462-7079
Photo of Rachel Neubacher, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Neubacher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
I have also worked within the field of Music, the Military, Substance Abuse, and in Trauma and Crisis.
Many life events and choices have led me to where I am today. What has defined who you are and who you plan to be? Difficulties and hardships have inspired many to become better or stronger versions of themselves. I am passionate about helping others find and work towards healing despite trauma or other difficulties. I know each of us are impacted by both our own and other's stressors.
I have also worked within the field of Music, the Military, Substance Abuse, and in Trauma and Crisis.
Many life events and choices have led me to where I am today. What has defined who you are and who you plan to be? Difficulties and hardships have inspired many to become better or stronger versions of themselves. I am passionate about helping others find and work towards healing despite trauma or other difficulties. I know each of us are impacted by both our own and other's stressors.
(205) 890-3041 View (205) 890-3041
Photo of Jacques L. Austin - J L Austin Counseling & Consulting, MA, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
J L Austin Counseling & Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Grief, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Anger Management, Addiction, Substance Abuse, Divorce, Domestic Violence, Self Esteem, and PTSD. Since 1997 I have worked with individuals, couples, families, groups, adults, and adolescents in gaining self awareness, peace, balance, and purpose in their life's journey.
Grief, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Anger Management, Addiction, Substance Abuse, Divorce, Domestic Violence, Self Esteem, and PTSD. Since 1997 I have worked with individuals, couples, families, groups, adults, and adolescents in gaining self awareness, peace, balance, and purpose in their life's journey.
(205) 677-0563 View (205) 677-0563
Photo of Meagan Baxter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meagan Baxter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401  (Online Only)
Specialty Areas: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Life Stages, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Substance Use & Addiction, Abuse, Grief & Loss, Solution-Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Approach, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing.
I received my MSW from the University of Southern California and my B.S. in Human Resources Management from the University of Phoenix. I am certified in trauma therapy. I have an extensive background as a medical social worker, psychiatric social worker, and case manager for local social service agencies, and learned to be a strong advocate for my clients. I have previously worked in inpatient psychiatric facilities, inpatient substance abuse facilities, school districts, and home health. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatrics.
Specialty Areas: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Life Stages, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Substance Use & Addiction, Abuse, Grief & Loss, Solution-Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Approach, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing.
I received my MSW from the University of Southern California and my B.S. in Human Resources Management from the University of Phoenix. I am certified in trauma therapy. I have an extensive background as a medical social worker, psychiatric social worker, and case manager for local social service agencies, and learned to be a strong advocate for my clients. I have previously worked in inpatient psychiatric facilities, inpatient substance abuse facilities, school districts, and home health. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatrics.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Kimberly Marable Winters, LPCS, CEAP, SAP, CRC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Marable Winters
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCS, CEAP, SAP, CRC, NCC
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
Areas of focus: Depression, anxiety, stress management, work-related concerns/ stress, marital/ premarital and relationship issues, as well as, substance use disorders and addictive behaviors.
Therapist passionate about helping you make changes in your life that ultimately improve the quality of your life. Seeking to guide, educate, motivate and support you along the journey of finding the healthiest YOU possible! I seek to help people modify their responses to life experiences, change, pain and trauma. Group support is extremely beneficial so don't overlook the options presented by Coach K's Korner to address relationship issues, stress/ anxiety and spiritual growth. Text 205-960-9150 for more information.
Areas of focus: Depression, anxiety, stress management, work-related concerns/ stress, marital/ premarital and relationship issues, as well as, substance use disorders and addictive behaviors.
Therapist passionate about helping you make changes in your life that ultimately improve the quality of your life. Seeking to guide, educate, motivate and support you along the journey of finding the healthiest YOU possible! I seek to help people modify their responses to life experiences, change, pain and trauma. Group support is extremely beneficial so don't overlook the options presented by Coach K's Korner to address relationship issues, stress/ anxiety and spiritual growth. Text 205-960-9150 for more information.
(205) 518-9643 View (205) 518-9643
Photo of Heather Thomas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
I work with teens, adults, couples, and families that are struggling with trauma, addiction, and mood disorders.
Sometimes life can get the better of us. You may no longer recognize yourself or how you got here. Most overwhelming can be that you don’t know how to make it stop. You may feel trapped in thought, behavior, and relationship patterns that seem beyond your control. You can't make sense of your feelings, or perhaps you feel so disconnected, you are numb to your emotions. If you have found yourself here, I imagine that you are seeking relief and hope.
I work with teens, adults, couples, and families that are struggling with trauma, addiction, and mood disorders.
Sometimes life can get the better of us. You may no longer recognize yourself or how you got here. Most overwhelming can be that you don’t know how to make it stop. You may feel trapped in thought, behavior, and relationship patterns that seem beyond your control. You can't make sense of your feelings, or perhaps you feel so disconnected, you are numb to your emotions. If you have found yourself here, I imagine that you are seeking relief and hope.
(205) 875-4669 View (205) 875-4669
Photo of Sharmen Rutherford, LPC, MHSP, ICAADC, AADC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sharmen Rutherford
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, ICAADC, AADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
She has over 16 years of clinical experience helping clients with substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma and PTSD.
Life isn't always easy. At times, things just don't seem right or the way that we would like for them to be. Life can be frustrating, overwhelming, complicated and down-right messy. It is during these difficult seasons that Sharmen would like to come alongside you and offer strength, hope and encouragement within the confines of a safe and therapeutic environment. She offers virtual counseling to clients throughout Alabama and in person at her office in Johnson City, TN. It is her mission to serve you with dignity, respect and confidentiality while helping you to reach and surpass the treatment goals you develop together.
She has over 16 years of clinical experience helping clients with substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma and PTSD.
Life isn't always easy. At times, things just don't seem right or the way that we would like for them to be. Life can be frustrating, overwhelming, complicated and down-right messy. It is during these difficult seasons that Sharmen would like to come alongside you and offer strength, hope and encouragement within the confines of a safe and therapeutic environment. She offers virtual counseling to clients throughout Alabama and in person at her office in Johnson City, TN. It is her mission to serve you with dignity, respect and confidentiality while helping you to reach and surpass the treatment goals you develop together.
(205) 378-6761 View (205) 378-6761
Photo of Aileen Murphy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aileen Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35406
I'm Aileen Hopkins Murphy, with over two decades of experience in mental health and addiction counseling.
Do you need help to overcome addiction, or handle trauma, anxiety, depression, and communication issues? I'm Aileen Hopkins Murphy, with a career spanning over 20 years in mental health and addiction counseling, backed by my Masters in Counseling, BA in Psychology, and a Law Degree. I specialize in substance abuse and co-occurring disorders, but also effectively treat other mental health issues. In therapy, I incorporate techniques like CBT, solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing, all tailored to support your journey to well-being.
I'm Aileen Hopkins Murphy, with over two decades of experience in mental health and addiction counseling.
Do you need help to overcome addiction, or handle trauma, anxiety, depression, and communication issues? I'm Aileen Hopkins Murphy, with a career spanning over 20 years in mental health and addiction counseling, backed by my Masters in Counseling, BA in Psychology, and a Law Degree. I specialize in substance abuse and co-occurring disorders, but also effectively treat other mental health issues. In therapy, I incorporate techniques like CBT, solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing, all tailored to support your journey to well-being.
(659) 300-2123 View (659) 300-2123
Photo of Katrina Freeman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katrina Freeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
I primarily work with adult clients working through alcohol/ substance abuse, adjustment, stress management, anger management, anxiety, depression, parenting dynamics, and marital/couples' issues.
My name is Katrina Freeman and I am an Alabama state licensed counselor and clinical supervisor for associate-level counselors. She has over 30 years of experience in the mental health and substance abuse counseling fields. I have an acceptance-based, client-centered approach to therapy. My passion is helping clients find balance and wellness in their lives.
I primarily work with adult clients working through alcohol/ substance abuse, adjustment, stress management, anger management, anxiety, depression, parenting dynamics, and marital/couples' issues.
My name is Katrina Freeman and I am an Alabama state licensed counselor and clinical supervisor for associate-level counselors. She has over 30 years of experience in the mental health and substance abuse counseling fields. I have an acceptance-based, client-centered approach to therapy. My passion is helping clients find balance and wellness in their lives.
(334) 367-4450 View (334) 367-4450
Photo of Kathryn Strickland Abs Sex Therapist, MEd, LPC, ABS, Counselor
Kathryn Strickland Abs Sex Therapist
Counselor, MEd, LPC, ABS
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
I specialize in sexual health issues including but not limited to: Pelvic pain, erectile dysfunction, sexual addiction, compulsive sexual behavior, conflict between sexual health and spirituality, sexual shame, sexual identity, and anxiety.
Are you and your relationship struggling due to sexual issues. These sensitive subjects can be difficult to talk about and even harder to find the right therapist for. I specialize in helping individuals through sexual issues of all kinds, including but not limited to: ED, Desire discrepancy, pelvic pain, sexual aversion, sexual trauma, low libido, out of control sexual behavior, negative impacts of pornography and technology, medical sexual dysfunction, and more. Don't let sexual problems stop you from having the life and relationships you desire.
I specialize in sexual health issues including but not limited to: Pelvic pain, erectile dysfunction, sexual addiction, compulsive sexual behavior, conflict between sexual health and spirituality, sexual shame, sexual identity, and anxiety.
Are you and your relationship struggling due to sexual issues. These sensitive subjects can be difficult to talk about and even harder to find the right therapist for. I specialize in helping individuals through sexual issues of all kinds, including but not limited to: ED, Desire discrepancy, pelvic pain, sexual aversion, sexual trauma, low libido, out of control sexual behavior, negative impacts of pornography and technology, medical sexual dysfunction, and more. Don't let sexual problems stop you from having the life and relationships you desire.
(205) 619-1526 View (205) 619-1526
Photo of Chip Garrett, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chip Garrett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
I am a counselor with 30 years of experience helping people with a variety of issues. I approach my work from a cognitive/behavioral perspective--I am interested in helping you think about how you think, and to sort through life's complexities to help you achieve your goals. I do not imagine that I know how you should live or think, nor what your goals should be. My job is to help you gain clarity and motivation to move in the direction that you want to go.
I am a counselor with 30 years of experience helping people with a variety of issues. I approach my work from a cognitive/behavioral perspective--I am interested in helping you think about how you think, and to sort through life's complexities to help you achieve your goals. I do not imagine that I know how you should live or think, nor what your goals should be. My job is to help you gain clarity and motivation to move in the direction that you want to go.
(205) 255-1037 View (205) 255-1037
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.