Addiction Therapists in Brea, CA

Photo of Daniel W McQuoid, PsyD, Psychologist
Daniel W McQuoid
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
When addressing issues of addiction and co-dependency, 12-step support groups can vitally impact one's healing.
I have over 30 years experience in individual, marital, family, and group counseling, working with those who have faced a variety of issues in life. Counseling will guide you through a healing process to find a profound sense of your purpose. You will find a warm, healing environment that will impact you intellectually, emotionally, relationally and spiritually. Tools will be provided to increase your sense of well being, your ability to cope with adversity, and your understanding of your brain chemistry as it relates to your emotional struggles along with exploring how one's faith can impact their transformation.
When addressing issues of addiction and co-dependency, 12-step support groups can vitally impact one's healing.
I have over 30 years experience in individual, marital, family, and group counseling, working with those who have faced a variety of issues in life. Counseling will guide you through a healing process to find a profound sense of your purpose. You will find a warm, healing environment that will impact you intellectually, emotionally, relationally and spiritually. Tools will be provided to increase your sense of well being, your ability to cope with adversity, and your understanding of your brain chemistry as it relates to your emotional struggles along with exploring how one's faith can impact their transformation.
(714) 769-6986 View (714) 769-6986
Photo of Brandon Joffe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandon Joffe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
As the founder of Inspired Resolutions my goal is to provide more effective and consistent services for teens, families, and marriages. With over 18 years of experience I began at the Substance Abuse Foundation. I then joined with "Shields for Families" working with the middle and high school population in Compton. In 2007 I became a Drug Court therapist on a collaborative team including probation and legal experts. I am one of the few therapists that has integrated mental health with nutrition and physical health.
As the founder of Inspired Resolutions my goal is to provide more effective and consistent services for teens, families, and marriages. With over 18 years of experience I began at the Substance Abuse Foundation. I then joined with "Shields for Families" working with the middle and high school population in Compton. In 2007 I became a Drug Court therapist on a collaborative team including probation and legal experts. I am one of the few therapists that has integrated mental health with nutrition and physical health.
(909) 474-7630 View (909) 474-7630
Photo of Matt Newmyer, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Matt Newmyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92822
I primarily treat depression/anxiety, addiction (including screen/internet/gaming addiction), adults with autism spectrum disorder, and couple's issues (betrayal trauma, intimacy, etc.
CALL if you have a PPO insurance plan! I will teach you how to utilize it to get reimbursed for a provider of your choice! I provide warm, empathetic, and effective care to individuals, couples, and families using some of the best, scientifically validated methods available. My goal is to help you find quick relief while developing the kinds of solutions that have long term, positive results. Because everyone is different, I customize treatment to the specific needs of each person and I go at the client's desired pace.
I primarily treat depression/anxiety, addiction (including screen/internet/gaming addiction), adults with autism spectrum disorder, and couple's issues (betrayal trauma, intimacy, etc.
CALL if you have a PPO insurance plan! I will teach you how to utilize it to get reimbursed for a provider of your choice! I provide warm, empathetic, and effective care to individuals, couples, and families using some of the best, scientifically validated methods available. My goal is to help you find quick relief while developing the kinds of solutions that have long term, positive results. Because everyone is different, I customize treatment to the specific needs of each person and I go at the client's desired pace.
(714) 582-3939 View (714) 582-3939
Photo of Varsha Panjabi, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Varsha Panjabi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92621
My focus is providing effective outpatient psychological care to adults struggling with addiction, depression/anxiety, relationship difficulties, and/or life transition/self-esteem issues.
Therapy can be an emotionally painful and difficult process, but also an empowering and rewarding investment towards emotional healing, interpersonal growth and healthy relationships. You have already started this journey by recognizing and asking for professional help. This shows courage, motivation and desire to change. Having a positive experience starts with a trusting connection with a therapist in a safe, neutral and supportive environment. In my practice, I focus on strengths and solutions to help clients gain insight about their current dysfunctional patterns and develop behavioral action plans to make positive changes.
My focus is providing effective outpatient psychological care to adults struggling with addiction, depression/anxiety, relationship difficulties, and/or life transition/self-esteem issues.
Therapy can be an emotionally painful and difficult process, but also an empowering and rewarding investment towards emotional healing, interpersonal growth and healthy relationships. You have already started this journey by recognizing and asking for professional help. This shows courage, motivation and desire to change. Having a positive experience starts with a trusting connection with a therapist in a safe, neutral and supportive environment. In my practice, I focus on strengths and solutions to help clients gain insight about their current dysfunctional patterns and develop behavioral action plans to make positive changes.
(714) 790-9972 View (714) 790-9972
Photo of Lisa Eaton, MSW, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Eaton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty include: anxiety, depression, ADHD, & bipolar disorder; adolescent & adult substance abuse issues; parent training & child behavior issues; family conflict & divorce; treating adult/childhood trauma, including PTSD; and working with clients on issues related to self-esteem, healthy relationships, identity development, & goal-setting.
:: CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS :: I believe that it takes courage to meet with a therapist, and I am sensitive to the journeys that lead people to my office. I utilize a friendly, collaborative approach in developing relationships with my clients. I feel that the most important change agent in the treatment process is the relationship between client and therapist. I strive to help my clients feel comfortable and safe, and help empower them to build skills to help manage stressors and overcome obstacles. I use a strengths-based approach to help my clients move from where they are to where they want to be.
My areas of specialty include: anxiety, depression, ADHD, & bipolar disorder; adolescent & adult substance abuse issues; parent training & child behavior issues; family conflict & divorce; treating adult/childhood trauma, including PTSD; and working with clients on issues related to self-esteem, healthy relationships, identity development, & goal-setting.
:: CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS :: I believe that it takes courage to meet with a therapist, and I am sensitive to the journeys that lead people to my office. I utilize a friendly, collaborative approach in developing relationships with my clients. I feel that the most important change agent in the treatment process is the relationship between client and therapist. I strive to help my clients feel comfortable and safe, and help empower them to build skills to help manage stressors and overcome obstacles. I use a strengths-based approach to help my clients move from where they are to where they want to be.
(562) 352-2120 View (562) 352-2120
Photo of Gregory Meeker, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gregory Meeker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brea, CA 92821
I also have experience working with anger, codependency; recovery including, drug, alcohol, pornography, and sex addiction, and can reassure you that a sustained recovery is possible.
If you are asking yourself “Is there hope”? The answer is "YES"! If you are experiencing relationship difficulties, or have been betrayed or abandoned, feel unseen, unheard, or misunderstood, healing is possible. You can stop accepting negative behaviors from those closest to you, avoiding conflict by pretending things are fine when they are not or are you the one lashing or acting out? I welcome marriages in crisis. I am a Christian therapist but I see all beliefs or none and I believe together we can find that hope.
I also have experience working with anger, codependency; recovery including, drug, alcohol, pornography, and sex addiction, and can reassure you that a sustained recovery is possible.
If you are asking yourself “Is there hope”? The answer is "YES"! If you are experiencing relationship difficulties, or have been betrayed or abandoned, feel unseen, unheard, or misunderstood, healing is possible. You can stop accepting negative behaviors from those closest to you, avoiding conflict by pretending things are fine when they are not or are you the one lashing or acting out? I welcome marriages in crisis. I am a Christian therapist but I see all beliefs or none and I believe together we can find that hope.
(714) 451-0791 View (714) 451-0791
Photo of Jim Grimes, PsyD, Psychologist
Jim Grimes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brea, CA 92821
Dr. Grimes enjoys providing individual, couple, marital, family, and child therapy. He is also trained to treat sexual abuse and clients dealing with both addiction and mental illness. Interests include but are not limited to attachment theory and spiritual formation throughout life. Dr. Grimes has been in practice for 11 years providing psychological services to a wide variety of issues and populations. He is trained in EMDR a treatment modality that is very effective in relieving trauma.
Dr. Grimes enjoys providing individual, couple, marital, family, and child therapy. He is also trained to treat sexual abuse and clients dealing with both addiction and mental illness. Interests include but are not limited to attachment theory and spiritual formation throughout life. Dr. Grimes has been in practice for 11 years providing psychological services to a wide variety of issues and populations. He is trained in EMDR a treatment modality that is very effective in relieving trauma.
(714) 701-6096 View (714) 701-6096
Photo of Debbie Linares, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debbie Linares
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821  (Online Only)
My experiences include counseling individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma related symptoms/issues, and substance abuse recovery.
Ever feel like things just keep stacking up on you? Do you feel like you’re constantly complaining about every aspect of life? You might be stuck in a runt and cannot think of anything positive or good in your life. Unfortunately, as humans we just seem to end up this way with a negative mindset. If you have been struggling with these thoughts for some time, I invite you to contact me. My purpose is to help you understand and gain insight to your symptoms and manage life situations.
My experiences include counseling individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma related symptoms/issues, and substance abuse recovery.
Ever feel like things just keep stacking up on you? Do you feel like you’re constantly complaining about every aspect of life? You might be stuck in a runt and cannot think of anything positive or good in your life. Unfortunately, as humans we just seem to end up this way with a negative mindset. If you have been struggling with these thoughts for some time, I invite you to contact me. My purpose is to help you understand and gain insight to your symptoms and manage life situations.
(714) 515-6349 View (714) 515-6349
Photo of Roslyn Villalobos, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Roslyn Villalobos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
Greetings- I feel that my role as a helper is strength-based & person-centered holistic approach. My strength as a helper in Anxiety, depression, ADHD, parenting challenges, trauma, addiction, life transitions, family systems, relationships, burnout, self-esteem, cultural adjustment, LGBTQ+, grief/loss, coping skills, mindfulness, and self-care. I'm ready to support you through your healing. Roslyn Villalobos LMFT 23951. As a helper, my therapeutic approach is to be strength-based & person-centered as well using a holistic approach.
Greetings- I feel that my role as a helper is strength-based & person-centered holistic approach. My strength as a helper in Anxiety, depression, ADHD, parenting challenges, trauma, addiction, life transitions, family systems, relationships, burnout, self-esteem, cultural adjustment, LGBTQ+, grief/loss, coping skills, mindfulness, and self-care. I'm ready to support you through your healing. Roslyn Villalobos LMFT 23951. As a helper, my therapeutic approach is to be strength-based & person-centered as well using a holistic approach.
(657) 837-5142 View (657) 837-5142
Photo of Fiona Nottingham, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Fiona Nottingham
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brea, CA 92821
I work with a wide range of diverse presenting problems affecting individuals, couples, families, and groups. I bring a wealth of experience treating populations with substance use disorders, process addictions, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, mental health issues, and forensics for people interacting with the legal system. Some areas of specialty include Trauma, Addiction, Gambling Disorder, Dual Diagnosis, and Life Transitions.
I work with a wide range of diverse presenting problems affecting individuals, couples, families, and groups. I bring a wealth of experience treating populations with substance use disorders, process addictions, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, mental health issues, and forensics for people interacting with the legal system. Some areas of specialty include Trauma, Addiction, Gambling Disorder, Dual Diagnosis, and Life Transitions.
(657) 300-5174 View (657) 300-5174
Photo of Samantha Navarro, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Navarro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
I have experience working in an outpatient substance use clinic working with the addict population, those suffering from anger management, and children/adults affected by a CPS case.
Hello! My name is Samantha Navarro and I’m an LCSW. Therapy should not be about a therapist's agenda, it’s all about the client! This is why I like to explore what are the current problems/issues and what goals you want to create from there. Sometimes other goals may be needed, but not everyone is ready to address them at that moment and that is okay too! I focus mostly on empowerment, positive psychology, strengths-based, and client-centered. I also will dabble with other approaches as well because every client is different and may need something different.
I have experience working in an outpatient substance use clinic working with the addict population, those suffering from anger management, and children/adults affected by a CPS case.
Hello! My name is Samantha Navarro and I’m an LCSW. Therapy should not be about a therapist's agenda, it’s all about the client! This is why I like to explore what are the current problems/issues and what goals you want to create from there. Sometimes other goals may be needed, but not everyone is ready to address them at that moment and that is okay too! I focus mostly on empowerment, positive psychology, strengths-based, and client-centered. I also will dabble with other approaches as well because every client is different and may need something different.
(657) 332-1529 View (657) 332-1529
Photo of Lisa A. Spendlove, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa A. Spendlove
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
My specialty is working with women and the many issues that women struggle with in today's society; depression, anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD, pre-marital counseling, self esteem, substance misuse, trauma, abusive relationships (both emotionally and physically abusive), parenting issues, codependency, assertiveness / boundary setting and stress management.
I provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment for my clients. I believe that my job as a therapist is to work in a partnership with clients in learning more about themselves, resolving past pain and then achieving personal happiness. I do not believe in forcing my lifestyle or goals on a client but rather helping them find out who they are, what goals they have for themselves and what positive and healthy ways they can achieve these goals. Personal growth and happiness is a goal that is unique to each individual. There is not just one way to achieve happiness.
My specialty is working with women and the many issues that women struggle with in today's society; depression, anxiety, panic attacks, ADHD, pre-marital counseling, self esteem, substance misuse, trauma, abusive relationships (both emotionally and physically abusive), parenting issues, codependency, assertiveness / boundary setting and stress management.
I provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment for my clients. I believe that my job as a therapist is to work in a partnership with clients in learning more about themselves, resolving past pain and then achieving personal happiness. I do not believe in forcing my lifestyle or goals on a client but rather helping them find out who they are, what goals they have for themselves and what positive and healthy ways they can achieve these goals. Personal growth and happiness is a goal that is unique to each individual. There is not just one way to achieve happiness.
(909) 265-3968 View (909) 265-3968
Photo of Dawn Foster-Ogle, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dawn Foster-Ogle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
Free yourself of the problems that hold you back from finding true freedom and happiness. All it takes is the desire for a better life and the right tools. Whether you are having difficulties in your relationship or are experiencing personal difficulties, I am here to help in the areas you feel stuck. Some of these areas may include problems communicating, difficulties relating to one another, parenting problems, depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, eating disorders, self harming behaviors, substance abuse/dependence, working through grief or adjusting to life changes. You don't need to suffer alone. Transform your life now!
Free yourself of the problems that hold you back from finding true freedom and happiness. All it takes is the desire for a better life and the right tools. Whether you are having difficulties in your relationship or are experiencing personal difficulties, I am here to help in the areas you feel stuck. Some of these areas may include problems communicating, difficulties relating to one another, parenting problems, depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, eating disorders, self harming behaviors, substance abuse/dependence, working through grief or adjusting to life changes. You don't need to suffer alone. Transform your life now!
(805) 622-2447 View (805) 622-2447
Photo of Katherine Wismer, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katherine Wismer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
We all face difficult issues and need someone to help us through these challenging times. Struggling with a relationship, anxiety, depression, bipolar, addiction, substance abuse, co-occurring disorders, work/school issues, life changes, marital, domestic and family issues or any other issues we are here to help you. 12-Step meetings may not be enough to overcome the underlying issues that lead to substance use and other disorders. If you're looking for extra support and guidance, we look forward to helping you achieve your goals. We offer a safe and supportive environment with an empathic therapist who understands.
We all face difficult issues and need someone to help us through these challenging times. Struggling with a relationship, anxiety, depression, bipolar, addiction, substance abuse, co-occurring disorders, work/school issues, life changes, marital, domestic and family issues or any other issues we are here to help you. 12-Step meetings may not be enough to overcome the underlying issues that lead to substance use and other disorders. If you're looking for extra support and guidance, we look forward to helping you achieve your goals. We offer a safe and supportive environment with an empathic therapist who understands.
(909) 345-6301 View (909) 345-6301
Photo of Elaine Kindle, PhD, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elaine Kindle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
I currently supervise MFT & MSW interns on their journey toward licensing, including the substance abuse field.
Is your life overwhelming, out-of-control? Are you unmotivated; defeated? Has your self-esteem tanked? Have you lost passion for work...or for life? Are you burned-out? Do you keep trying to succeed but feel you're going nowhere? Have friends said "just get over it" ... something happened to you in the past ...but you just can't seem to shake if off? Change is possible.
I currently supervise MFT & MSW interns on their journey toward licensing, including the substance abuse field.
Is your life overwhelming, out-of-control? Are you unmotivated; defeated? Has your self-esteem tanked? Have you lost passion for work...or for life? Are you burned-out? Do you keep trying to succeed but feel you're going nowhere? Have friends said "just get over it" ... something happened to you in the past ...but you just can't seem to shake if off? Change is possible.
(626) 653-4095 View (626) 653-4095
Photo of Jennifer Friend, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Friend
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brea, CA 92823  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a safe place where you can talk through difficult emotions, discover and eliminate troubling symptoms and improve your sense of well-being? If so, welcome! With over 14 years of trusted experience, I’ve helped those who’ve experienced stress, anxiety, depression, fatigue, trauma, abuse, and addiction. Your decision to enter therapy is proven to be worth the effort!
Are you looking for a safe place where you can talk through difficult emotions, discover and eliminate troubling symptoms and improve your sense of well-being? If so, welcome! With over 14 years of trusted experience, I’ve helped those who’ve experienced stress, anxiety, depression, fatigue, trauma, abuse, and addiction. Your decision to enter therapy is proven to be worth the effort!
(949) 353-5879 View (949) 353-5879
Photo of Justin Hui, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Justin Hui
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
My passion is to help those who feel weary and lost. It is difficult to be present and live a fulfilling life when the chains of past events hold us back. As hard as we run and distract ourselves, we also run away from our sense of self. Avoiding pain can grow into unhealthy behaviors and addiction. My intention is to help build a foundation for a meaningful life. Core pieces of the foundation include insight, communication, emotions, and connection. These pieces are vital to maintaining healthy relationships and attaining the love we want. Other important areas to consider are cultural identity, spirituality, and our past.
My passion is to help those who feel weary and lost. It is difficult to be present and live a fulfilling life when the chains of past events hold us back. As hard as we run and distract ourselves, we also run away from our sense of self. Avoiding pain can grow into unhealthy behaviors and addiction. My intention is to help build a foundation for a meaningful life. Core pieces of the foundation include insight, communication, emotions, and connection. These pieces are vital to maintaining healthy relationships and attaining the love we want. Other important areas to consider are cultural identity, spirituality, and our past.
(949) 353-5237 View (949) 353-5237
Photo of Melissa Morales, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Morales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
My name is Melissa Morales, LCSW, CADC. My goal is to provide a safe and appropriate environment that fosters both acceptance and change utilizing an insight-oriented approach. My clinical expertise includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and substance use disorders (SUD) and have worked in various treatment settings. My areas of focus are in treating adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, grief, substance use disorders, and trauma, including abusive/toxic relationships. I also have experience in working with first responders.
My name is Melissa Morales, LCSW, CADC. My goal is to provide a safe and appropriate environment that fosters both acceptance and change utilizing an insight-oriented approach. My clinical expertise includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and substance use disorders (SUD) and have worked in various treatment settings. My areas of focus are in treating adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, grief, substance use disorders, and trauma, including abusive/toxic relationships. I also have experience in working with first responders.
(209) 255-5813 View (209) 255-5813
Photo of Dr. Lillian L Chang, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Lillian L Chang
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821  (Online Only)
With a doctorate in Psychology and a California license as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I am here to support you in a safe and confidential environment. I am fluent in Mandarin Chinese, Taiwanese, and English. I am also a California state-authorized gambling services provider. Whether you want personal growth, healthy relationships with your family/friends/others, or peace of mind, I provide a secure space to explore your options and reach your goals. I am eagerly looking forward to hearing from you. Your decision to seek support is a brave step, and I am here to help you on your journey.
With a doctorate in Psychology and a California license as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I am here to support you in a safe and confidential environment. I am fluent in Mandarin Chinese, Taiwanese, and English. I am also a California state-authorized gambling services provider. Whether you want personal growth, healthy relationships with your family/friends/others, or peace of mind, I provide a secure space to explore your options and reach your goals. I am eagerly looking forward to hearing from you. Your decision to seek support is a brave step, and I am here to help you on your journey.
(951) 221-4124 View (951) 221-4124
Photo of Stacy Woolman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stacy Woolman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brea, CA 92821
My hope is to help the client and families reach their goals and to provide them with a safe and non-judgmental place to do that. When working with a client, I will assist in allowing the client and families to process feelings and thoughts in a safe and non-judgmental environment. Please note, I am fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) and can provide counseling services for the deaf community.
My hope is to help the client and families reach their goals and to provide them with a safe and non-judgmental place to do that. When working with a client, I will assist in allowing the client and families to process feelings and thoughts in a safe and non-judgmental environment. Please note, I am fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) and can provide counseling services for the deaf community.
(714) 409-1845 View (714) 409-1845
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.