Addiction Therapists in Baldwin Hills, CA
![Photo of Dr. Lawrence J. Martin, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e87f338-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treating children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families who are having difficulties managing: Anger, Attention, Mood/Anxiety, Substance Use, Health Issues/Chronic Pain.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years experience in the field. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them get back in balance, feel and act more like themselves, to feel empowered and better able to effectively manage their lives. I help people to feel more in control over their circumstances: their own thoughts and feelings, their relationships, and their responsibilities. My approach to therapy is client and family centered, warm, nonjudgmental, solution-focused, and strength-based.
I specialize in treating children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families who are having difficulties managing: Anger, Attention, Mood/Anxiety, Substance Use, Health Issues/Chronic Pain.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years experience in the field. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them get back in balance, feel and act more like themselves, to feel empowered and better able to effectively manage their lives. I help people to feel more in control over their circumstances: their own thoughts and feelings, their relationships, and their responsibilities. My approach to therapy is client and family centered, warm, nonjudgmental, solution-focused, and strength-based.
![Photo of Eric Phillip Walker - Solution Room Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af2560e6-8da0-4967-9d1b-2f6435c47d3a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Solution Room Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Baldwin Hills, CA 90008 (Online Only)
Are you having relationships challenges? Are you dealing with emotional trauma, stress, college life challenges, marital stressors, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, or work-life balance which have become too much? Do you want to heal the root cause of your emotional pain so that you can live a pain-free life? By applying time-tested therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Are you having relationships challenges? Are you dealing with emotional trauma, stress, college life challenges, marital stressors, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, or work-life balance which have become too much? Do you want to heal the root cause of your emotional pain so that you can live a pain-free life? By applying time-tested therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
![Photo of Evelyn Nankanja, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51e65995-9eaf-440f-bf21-c811940eb601/2/320x400.jpeg)
Evelyn Nankanja
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Baldwin Hills, CA 90008 (Online Only)
Thoughts of fear and worry keep you up at night. Something has changed to the point that you don’t recognize yourself. What happened to the happy person that you used to be? The sadness does not seem to go away. You’re so worried about the future that you’re unable to concentrate or enjoy the things you used to enjoy. You have tried to make yourself happy but feel stuck. Your life feels empty; there is nothing that brings happiness. It feels like you do not have a purpose for living, and nobody seems to understand what you are going through.
Thoughts of fear and worry keep you up at night. Something has changed to the point that you don’t recognize yourself. What happened to the happy person that you used to be? The sadness does not seem to go away. You’re so worried about the future that you’re unable to concentrate or enjoy the things you used to enjoy. You have tried to make yourself happy but feel stuck. Your life feels empty; there is nothing that brings happiness. It feels like you do not have a purpose for living, and nobody seems to understand what you are going through.
![Photo of Jarvis Sams, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0067c355-e531-4511-acb9-edc083777f01/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jarvis Sams
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Baldwin Hills, CA 90008 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Like many people, I was skeptical regarding the benefits of therapy, but through my own therapeutic experience, I learned how rewarding it is. As a clinician, I provide the questions and guide the reflection that helps my clients see their concerns more clearly and grow real solutions that serve them. Part of this process is nurturing a safe space where judgment is missing and thoughts become organized. My belief is that change is ever constant and happens around us even when we believe things are static. Many people get stuck in patterns that do not serve them and some of us may even be afraid to go in a different direction.
Like many people, I was skeptical regarding the benefits of therapy, but through my own therapeutic experience, I learned how rewarding it is. As a clinician, I provide the questions and guide the reflection that helps my clients see their concerns more clearly and grow real solutions that serve them. Part of this process is nurturing a safe space where judgment is missing and thoughts become organized. My belief is that change is ever constant and happens around us even when we believe things are static. Many people get stuck in patterns that do not serve them and some of us may even be afraid to go in a different direction.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Lonnie Mack Duncan, LPC Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2d378b9-8ce3-42c7-a05b-04b7a47bdca4/1/320x400.jpeg)
As hard as the work of healing can be, being witnessed, held and guided by another attuned human can help overcome attachment trauma, and addiction, manage triggers, relinquish self-destructive behaviors, alleviate anxiety and stress, and break free from life stagnation.
Your life story is one of resilience, growth, and transformation. You have faced and conquered numerous intricate challenges and traumas throughout your journey. These experiences have shaped you into a survivor who is determined to thrive and help others in their healing journeys. You have a multifaceted identity, which is a testament to your commitment to personal growth!
As hard as the work of healing can be, being witnessed, held and guided by another attuned human can help overcome attachment trauma, and addiction, manage triggers, relinquish self-destructive behaviors, alleviate anxiety and stress, and break free from life stagnation.
Your life story is one of resilience, growth, and transformation. You have faced and conquered numerous intricate challenges and traumas throughout your journey. These experiences have shaped you into a survivor who is determined to thrive and help others in their healing journeys. You have a multifaceted identity, which is a testament to your commitment to personal growth!
![Photo of Bryan Hall - Conquer Recovery Center, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7290b09-61a3-49e1-b86b-67a384303405/2/320x400.jpeg)
we see the addiction not as the problem itself, but rather as a symptom.
We know how hard it can be to start with rehab. As challenging as the entire process can be, perhaps the most difficult part is the first one: that first phone call, that first moment of reaching out. When you’re ready, we’ll be here to help.
we see the addiction not as the problem itself, but rather as a symptom.
We know how hard it can be to start with rehab. As challenging as the entire process can be, perhaps the most difficult part is the first one: that first phone call, that first moment of reaching out. When you’re ready, we’ll be here to help.
![Photo of Delena Zimmerman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/497d3e53-8c2a-4d07-85e5-3baa079399f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Delena Zimmerman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90230
I specialize in working with alcoholism and substance use disorders.
As a strengths-based therapist, I am here as a warm and compassionate partner to walk alongside you through some of life's most difficult challenges. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to explore, process, and cope with past pain, present fears, and future uncertainties. I provide empathy, insight, and a fresh perspective, as we sort through the muck of life together, and you discover your own inner strength and power. You experience healing hope. I'm highly intuitive, coupled with an open heart, and experience working with a range of emotional issues to help guide you toward leading the fulfilling life you desire.
I specialize in working with alcoholism and substance use disorders.
As a strengths-based therapist, I am here as a warm and compassionate partner to walk alongside you through some of life's most difficult challenges. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to explore, process, and cope with past pain, present fears, and future uncertainties. I provide empathy, insight, and a fresh perspective, as we sort through the muck of life together, and you discover your own inner strength and power. You experience healing hope. I'm highly intuitive, coupled with an open heart, and experience working with a range of emotional issues to help guide you toward leading the fulfilling life you desire.
![Photo of Marica Thomas, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8fc7ae39-076d-4a00-8b18-0c0cbf1bda79/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marica Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90043
I have worked with clients struggling with trauma, substance abuse and recovery, grief and loss, relationship distress, anxiety, and depression.
I believe that therapy is a truly personal experience. The decision to seek support is a courageous one. As your therapist, I feel the privilege of being allowed into your life in a way that you may have not allowed others to be. My approach is customized to each of my clients because each one of us is on our own personal journey. My treatments are rooted in psychodynamic, humanistic, and family systems theories. Based on your individual goals and needs, I may integrate mindfulness-based interventions, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or trauma focused therapy. I am an EMDR trained therapist and current member of EMDRIA.
I have worked with clients struggling with trauma, substance abuse and recovery, grief and loss, relationship distress, anxiety, and depression.
I believe that therapy is a truly personal experience. The decision to seek support is a courageous one. As your therapist, I feel the privilege of being allowed into your life in a way that you may have not allowed others to be. My approach is customized to each of my clients because each one of us is on our own personal journey. My treatments are rooted in psychodynamic, humanistic, and family systems theories. Based on your individual goals and needs, I may integrate mindfulness-based interventions, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or trauma focused therapy. I am an EMDR trained therapist and current member of EMDRIA.
![Photo of Keegan J. Hornbeck, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89131e1f-411c-4360-baa7-449c2d1b64ff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Keegan J. Hornbeck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90062
Do you or someone you care about need support in managing difficult emotions? Perhaps trauma is driving addiction or other unwanted behaviors and it would be helpful to develop a plan and get the tools for improvement? Modern life has left us disconnected and discouraged. If you would like some help navigating difficult emotions, past trauma or current life stressors then please consider reaching out, and we can determine together if I am the right person to help.
Do you or someone you care about need support in managing difficult emotions? Perhaps trauma is driving addiction or other unwanted behaviors and it would be helpful to develop a plan and get the tools for improvement? Modern life has left us disconnected and discouraged. If you would like some help navigating difficult emotions, past trauma or current life stressors then please consider reaching out, and we can determine together if I am the right person to help.
![Photo of Sharon M Burnom - Forever Free Online Addiction Counseling, CADTP, MBA, MA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40682d99-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Forever Free Online Addiction Counseling
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADTP, MBA, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90043
I have worked in the addiction field for 30 years, I specialize in helping people recover from substance abuse and addiction. My primary goal of addiction counseling is to help clients achieve and maintain abstinence from addictive chemicals and behaviors.
I have worked in the addiction field for 30 years, I specialize in helping people recover from substance abuse and addiction. My primary goal of addiction counseling is to help clients achieve and maintain abstinence from addictive chemicals and behaviors.
![Photo of Claudius Johnson - Sankofa Holistic Counseling Services, LCSW, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02d65751-de1c-4999-a949-51646ac605e1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sankofa Holistic Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leimert Park, CA 90008 (Online Only)
Member of American Psychological Association, National Association of Social Workers, Association for Addiction Professionals and Northern California Art Therapy Association.
Congratulations, you found a compassionate and affirming therapist. As you're reading this I understand it maybe with some degree of ambivalence. To that end, my immediate goal is to connect and reflect with you in ways that are safe, respectful and trusting. Only then can we have a meaningful, therapeutic-relationship that's open to collaboration, exploration, and revelation. This is where we "Make the road as we walk it", and I champion your journey, where ever it leads. I value the creative and growth potential of every human being. How can I best support you?
Member of American Psychological Association, National Association of Social Workers, Association for Addiction Professionals and Northern California Art Therapy Association.
Congratulations, you found a compassionate and affirming therapist. As you're reading this I understand it maybe with some degree of ambivalence. To that end, my immediate goal is to connect and reflect with you in ways that are safe, respectful and trusting. Only then can we have a meaningful, therapeutic-relationship that's open to collaboration, exploration, and revelation. This is where we "Make the road as we walk it", and I champion your journey, where ever it leads. I value the creative and growth potential of every human being. How can I best support you?
![Photo of Dezetta Burnett, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a620f3ba-7171-47f1-b85f-0414d06017aa/1/320x400.png)
Dezetta Burnett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90056 (Online Only)
Greetings, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles, CA. My qualifications include a Master's and Doctor of Social Work degree from the University of Southern California. I bring over a decade of expertise in Anxiety, Depression, and Substance Abuse treatment. As a dedicated and seasoned therapist, I aim to assist individuals in conquering life's obstacles and realizing their aspirations.
Greetings, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles, CA. My qualifications include a Master's and Doctor of Social Work degree from the University of Southern California. I bring over a decade of expertise in Anxiety, Depression, and Substance Abuse treatment. As a dedicated and seasoned therapist, I aim to assist individuals in conquering life's obstacles and realizing their aspirations.
![Photo of Connie Hall, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bc1e4dd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/8/320x400.jpeg)
I have vast experience in the areas of addiction and self-injury, childhood abuse, and intimacy issues, as well as with the LGBT community.
Do you feel useful and fulfilled in life? Are your relationships deep and meaningful? Are all your dreams coming true? Or are you overwhelmed by life? Do you doubt yourself? Are you disappointed with the people closest to you? If you are experiencing difficulty coping with the realities of your life and find yourself sinking into negativity, I can help you. In a compassionate, safe environment we can work together to overcome your problems. We can address the issues that are limiting your enjoyment of life and holding you back from happiness as your authentic self.
I have vast experience in the areas of addiction and self-injury, childhood abuse, and intimacy issues, as well as with the LGBT community.
Do you feel useful and fulfilled in life? Are your relationships deep and meaningful? Are all your dreams coming true? Or are you overwhelmed by life? Do you doubt yourself? Are you disappointed with the people closest to you? If you are experiencing difficulty coping with the realities of your life and find yourself sinking into negativity, I can help you. In a compassionate, safe environment we can work together to overcome your problems. We can address the issues that are limiting your enjoyment of life and holding you back from happiness as your authentic self.
![Photo of Ellen S Katz, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/031ea065-6643-45df-af7c-79ba945e61e5/3/320x400.jpeg)
I'm certified in Holographic Memory Resolution* and the Lifeline** Technique, both powerful tools for healing trauma and addiction.
I have been blessed with many incredible mentors throughout my journey as a human and as a therapist, and I now can share their collective wisdom along with my life experience, with you. Therapy offer a process of healing learn to be present together, allowing awareness to expand in a safe place. Here, truth can be expressed, allowing transformation. Typically we default to distraction, intoxication or denial when a we can't genuinely connect with ourselves. "Process addictions", loss, trauma and shame creep in and inhibit our sense of Self. Through therapy, our clarity, healing and ease with emotional intimacy can finally emerge.
I'm certified in Holographic Memory Resolution* and the Lifeline** Technique, both powerful tools for healing trauma and addiction.
I have been blessed with many incredible mentors throughout my journey as a human and as a therapist, and I now can share their collective wisdom along with my life experience, with you. Therapy offer a process of healing learn to be present together, allowing awareness to expand in a safe place. Here, truth can be expressed, allowing transformation. Typically we default to distraction, intoxication or denial when a we can't genuinely connect with ourselves. "Process addictions", loss, trauma and shame creep in and inhibit our sense of Self. Through therapy, our clarity, healing and ease with emotional intimacy can finally emerge.
![Photo of Yasuko Mikajiri, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/285c3b1b-280f-449c-ba68-02977ff27980/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yasuko Mikajiri
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90016 (Online Only)
My name is Yasuko (pronounced "Yasco") Mikajiri (三ヶ尻 靖子), and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Long Beach, California. Via Telehealth, I work with adults (18 years old and over) throughout California, specializing in Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Grief & Loss, Substance Abuse, Communication Skills, Transitional Work, Generational/Cultural Gap Issues for Immigrants, and Purpose in Life, etc. My approach to therapy is a combination of some of the therapy techniques tailored to your individual needs. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps you transform the patterns of negative thinking into positive ones.
My name is Yasuko (pronounced "Yasco") Mikajiri (三ヶ尻 靖子), and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Long Beach, California. Via Telehealth, I work with adults (18 years old and over) throughout California, specializing in Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Grief & Loss, Substance Abuse, Communication Skills, Transitional Work, Generational/Cultural Gap Issues for Immigrants, and Purpose in Life, etc. My approach to therapy is a combination of some of the therapy techniques tailored to your individual needs. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps you transform the patterns of negative thinking into positive ones.
![Photo of Jean Lundquist, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/563edef8-72bb-45cc-9988-9431f23388f4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jean Lundquist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90016 (Online Only)
My work emphasizes a nonjudgmental and accepting approach towards mental health as it takes immense courage to begin to ask for the support that most of us need at least one point in our life. I work with individuals that experience sudden shifts in their mood, have difficulty regulating their emotions, anxiety, depression, addiction, body image issues, trauma, and the natural difficulties that arise with living life in our busy modern day society. I start from a trauma informed lens that utilizes multiple evidence based practices including ACT, CBT, and EMDR.
My work emphasizes a nonjudgmental and accepting approach towards mental health as it takes immense courage to begin to ask for the support that most of us need at least one point in our life. I work with individuals that experience sudden shifts in their mood, have difficulty regulating their emotions, anxiety, depression, addiction, body image issues, trauma, and the natural difficulties that arise with living life in our busy modern day society. I start from a trauma informed lens that utilizes multiple evidence based practices including ACT, CBT, and EMDR.
![Photo of Paul Julio Calloway, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06b4e45e-d95e-4e7c-a7c5-0c6c466fe2d5/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treating anxiety, PTSD, anger management, depression, OCD, co-dependency and sexual addiction.
As a therapist, I would like to create a safe place to discuss and process your feelings. The most important thing for me is building trust and rapport so that the therapeutic process can commence. I am here to provide guidance and tailor my counseling interventions to address your specific needs. I identify as a therapist of color specializing in working with communities of color.
I specialize in treating anxiety, PTSD, anger management, depression, OCD, co-dependency and sexual addiction.
As a therapist, I would like to create a safe place to discuss and process your feelings. The most important thing for me is building trust and rapport so that the therapeutic process can commence. I am here to provide guidance and tailor my counseling interventions to address your specific needs. I identify as a therapist of color specializing in working with communities of color.
![Photo of Heather Nisenbaum, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b37d532f-b747-4394-9f26-39ca39ab15aa/2/320x400.png)
Hello. My name is Heather Nisenbaum. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing care to clients struggling with life transitions, interpersonal challenges, and periods of depression, anxiety and addiction. I work with clients in late adolescence through adulthood. They commonly are having new or longstanding periods of depression and anxiety. These issues may be worsened by interpersonal or family issues. Anxiety, depression, substance misuse & recovery, trauma, and major life transitions are several areas of my clinical focus.
Hello. My name is Heather Nisenbaum. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing care to clients struggling with life transitions, interpersonal challenges, and periods of depression, anxiety and addiction. I work with clients in late adolescence through adulthood. They commonly are having new or longstanding periods of depression and anxiety. These issues may be worsened by interpersonal or family issues. Anxiety, depression, substance misuse & recovery, trauma, and major life transitions are several areas of my clinical focus.
![Photo of Edward Alvo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad59c83b-1adf-485b-b917-568562be9b91/1/320x400.jpeg)
Throughout my career working with the adult addiction and mental health population, I have witnessed men and women change their lives, reach their goals, and reunite with their families.
Hello, my name is Eddie Alvo, LMFT 125795. I am also certified with CAADE & CCAPP as a drug and alcohol counselor. I am in recovery and my focus has been with men, women and their families to recover from addiction. My approach to therapy is to meet every client where they are at and treat them as an individual. To build rapport and listen to your current symptoms, so as a team we can determine the path to take and begin to minimize your symptom's.
Throughout my career working with the adult addiction and mental health population, I have witnessed men and women change their lives, reach their goals, and reunite with their families.
Hello, my name is Eddie Alvo, LMFT 125795. I am also certified with CAADE & CCAPP as a drug and alcohol counselor. I am in recovery and my focus has been with men, women and their families to recover from addiction. My approach to therapy is to meet every client where they are at and treat them as an individual. To build rapport and listen to your current symptoms, so as a team we can determine the path to take and begin to minimize your symptom's.
![Photo of Ashley Wettlaufer, AMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96c4550e-334c-4361-a283-1bb9bd8567bf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Wettlaufer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90056 (Online Only)
I have clinical experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, relationship issues and substance abuse.
Now accepting new clients including individuals, couples and teens. Most of us are not born knowing how to navigate relationships, understand and manage our emotions or process our traumas. Many things throughout our life influence us and how we react and behave in different situations, however that doesn’t mean we can’t grow and develop as individuals. My goal is to help clients become confident in who they are through discovering their own self-worth and practicing self-compassion. We can work together to create a space where you can find the tools and support you are looking for during this period of your life.
I have clinical experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, relationship issues and substance abuse.
Now accepting new clients including individuals, couples and teens. Most of us are not born knowing how to navigate relationships, understand and manage our emotions or process our traumas. Many things throughout our life influence us and how we react and behave in different situations, however that doesn’t mean we can’t grow and develop as individuals. My goal is to help clients become confident in who they are through discovering their own self-worth and practicing self-compassion. We can work together to create a space where you can find the tools and support you are looking for during this period of your life.
See more therapy options for Baldwin Hills
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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.