Addiction Therapists in Culver City, CA

Photo of Ken Seman, LCSW-R, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ken Seman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, SAP
Verified Verified
Culver City, CA 90230
Many of my clients suffer from anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, substance abuse and relationship conflicts.
It is my experience after practicing over 24 years that it is not so much what you think that is important rather it is how you feel. We are motivated by our feelings. A thought is usually not sufficient to initiate lasting change unless it is connected to a feeling. Psychotherapy is usually sought when the individual is in crisis and feels overwhelmed. When an individual is overwhelmed it is like being overloaded with more hurt then can be lived with. The therapist is a catalyst to help the individual integrate their feelings and thoughts and to live in the present.
Many of my clients suffer from anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, substance abuse and relationship conflicts.
It is my experience after practicing over 24 years that it is not so much what you think that is important rather it is how you feel. We are motivated by our feelings. A thought is usually not sufficient to initiate lasting change unless it is connected to a feeling. Psychotherapy is usually sought when the individual is in crisis and feels overwhelmed. When an individual is overwhelmed it is like being overloaded with more hurt then can be lived with. The therapist is a catalyst to help the individual integrate their feelings and thoughts and to live in the present.
(424) 345-1381 View (424) 345-1381
Photo of Delena Zimmerman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
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.
(213) 223-8027 View (213) 223-8027
Photo of Tara M Brisco, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara M Brisco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90230
While I work with clients with a breadth of presenting issues, I do have a high level of expertise in working with complex trauma, dissociative disorders, addiction, and eating disorders.
Finding a therapist who is the right fit for you is a huge first step in healing and moving towards your therapeutic goals. I am not a "blank slate" therapist. Convinced that connections heal, my style is warm, relational, client-centered, strengths-based and strongly influenced by Buddhist Psychology. I meet my clients where they currently are and support them in healing and moving towards their goals. Please be advised that when sharing personal information through calls and emails via Psychology Today they will first be seen and directed by my assistant to myself or colleagues at my group practice of Wounded Healers Inc.
While I work with clients with a breadth of presenting issues, I do have a high level of expertise in working with complex trauma, dissociative disorders, addiction, and eating disorders.
Finding a therapist who is the right fit for you is a huge first step in healing and moving towards your therapeutic goals. I am not a "blank slate" therapist. Convinced that connections heal, my style is warm, relational, client-centered, strengths-based and strongly influenced by Buddhist Psychology. I meet my clients where they currently are and support them in healing and moving towards their goals. Please be advised that when sharing personal information through calls and emails via Psychology Today they will first be seen and directed by my assistant to myself or colleagues at my group practice of Wounded Healers Inc.
(844) 634-2363 View (844) 634-2363
Photo of Kristen Wallis, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristen Wallis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Culver City, CA 90230
Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction, a life transition, family/parenting concerns, or other mental health issues, we are all trying to better understand ourselves and break free of our limiting patterns and beliefs. My approach to therapy involves a strong foundation in formal therapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, family systems, and others, while at the same time recognizing that you are the expert of your own life, and it is through the therapeutic process that you will come to gain valuable insights, recognize your potential, and enhance your capacity for self-love.
Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction, a life transition, family/parenting concerns, or other mental health issues, we are all trying to better understand ourselves and break free of our limiting patterns and beliefs. My approach to therapy involves a strong foundation in formal therapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, family systems, and others, while at the same time recognizing that you are the expert of your own life, and it is through the therapeutic process that you will come to gain valuable insights, recognize your potential, and enhance your capacity for self-love.
(424) 433-4256 View (424) 433-4256
Photo of Linda Fujino, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda Fujino
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Culver City, CA 90230  (Online Only)
Whether you are looking to end an addiction, process complex trauma and shame, or overcome your self-limiting beliefs I am here to help. My extensive experience in the field, as well as my own personal work has led me to the understanding that there is a way out. I treat those with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, grief/loss, children of addict/alcoholics, borderline personality, betrayal trauma, sex/porn addiction, and other issues. Through the therapeutic process I can help you to better understand what you have been through and how to overcome your current struggles to live your fullest, best life.
Whether you are looking to end an addiction, process complex trauma and shame, or overcome your self-limiting beliefs I am here to help. My extensive experience in the field, as well as my own personal work has led me to the understanding that there is a way out. I treat those with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, grief/loss, children of addict/alcoholics, borderline personality, betrayal trauma, sex/porn addiction, and other issues. Through the therapeutic process I can help you to better understand what you have been through and how to overcome your current struggles to live your fullest, best life.
(310) 928-2382 View (310) 928-2382
Photo of Derek Scott Hoxby, MA, LMFT, CADC-II, SEP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Derek Scott Hoxby
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CADC-II, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90230
I have a specialization working with couples, families and individuals; as well as substance abuse/chemical dependency and addiction treatment (porn, sex & gambling). In many cases the depressed and anxious client is self medicating in some way to alter underlying feelings of depression, anxiety and intimacy/attachment issues. I use Somatic Experiencing, a very effective treatment for trauma/PTSD symptoms, helping the body and mind regulate itself. Clients in relationships with loved ones addicted or abusing substances can benefit from therapy to learn how to take care of themselves so as to limit the toxicity of the proximity
I have a specialization working with couples, families and individuals; as well as substance abuse/chemical dependency and addiction treatment (porn, sex & gambling). In many cases the depressed and anxious client is self medicating in some way to alter underlying feelings of depression, anxiety and intimacy/attachment issues. I use Somatic Experiencing, a very effective treatment for trauma/PTSD symptoms, helping the body and mind regulate itself. Clients in relationships with loved ones addicted or abusing substances can benefit from therapy to learn how to take care of themselves so as to limit the toxicity of the proximity
(310) 861-7215 View (310) 861-7215
Photo of Connie Hall, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Connie Hall
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Culver City, CA 90232  (Online Only)
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.
(424) 256-1928 View (424) 256-1928
Photo of Jon Maher, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jon Maher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Culver City, CA 90230
I have helped people heal through Depression, Addiction, and various developmental and Life Issues.
Most people seek a therapist when they feel stuck in some way. My goal is to help you find the tools and resources to get answers. Hopefully, with answers, come solutions. This can help a person feel motivated and empowered to move forward in their life. I try to provide a space that allows for improved happiness, self esteem, and a healthier relationship with yourself and others.
I have helped people heal through Depression, Addiction, and various developmental and Life Issues.
Most people seek a therapist when they feel stuck in some way. My goal is to help you find the tools and resources to get answers. Hopefully, with answers, come solutions. This can help a person feel motivated and empowered to move forward in their life. I try to provide a space that allows for improved happiness, self esteem, and a healthier relationship with yourself and others.
(310) 736-2775 View (310) 736-2775
Photo of Eric Cohnen Kruse, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eric Cohnen Kruse
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90066
My specialty is addiction.
My goal is to help people open up and discover new aspects of themselves. I believe that every person has a unique and interesting story. I work towards deconstructing problem-saturated narratives and thickening thin descriptions that lead to unhealthy thinking patterns and behaviors.
My specialty is addiction.
My goal is to help people open up and discover new aspects of themselves. I believe that every person has a unique and interesting story. I work towards deconstructing problem-saturated narratives and thickening thin descriptions that lead to unhealthy thinking patterns and behaviors.
(424) 329-5188 View (424) 329-5188
Photo of Andrew Saunders, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrew Saunders
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90232
I am a solution-oriented, trauma-focused therapist, with a strong background in mindfulness-based treatment of addiction, depression, anxiety, and other symptoms that often result from unresolved complex trauma.
I help people navigate the big choices in life, confront issues like depression and anxiety, and face down bigger problems like addiction or unresolved trauma. Maybe you sense something isn’t quite right — your job, your marriage, your personal relationships and want to get “back on track.” Together we can face difficult choices, move through the stages of change, and help you recover a sense of personal integrity. I work with couples, individuals, and sometimes families to improve communication, explore values, and address underlying issues which may be a source of conflict.
I am a solution-oriented, trauma-focused therapist, with a strong background in mindfulness-based treatment of addiction, depression, anxiety, and other symptoms that often result from unresolved complex trauma.
I help people navigate the big choices in life, confront issues like depression and anxiety, and face down bigger problems like addiction or unresolved trauma. Maybe you sense something isn’t quite right — your job, your marriage, your personal relationships and want to get “back on track.” Together we can face difficult choices, move through the stages of change, and help you recover a sense of personal integrity. I work with couples, individuals, and sometimes families to improve communication, explore values, and address underlying issues which may be a source of conflict.
(310) 928-9375 View (310) 928-9375
Photo of Adam Mindel, MA, CADC-II, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Adam Mindel
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, CADC-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90066
Whether it is you or your loved one that feels lost, with over 16 years of personal sobriety I know first hand that addiction is not hopeless .
Interventionist and Sober Coach with over 20,000 hours of specialization in addiction. Over the last 15 years I have helped thousands of individuals and families suffering from issues of substance abuse. Past Family Program Director, and Clinical Director for one of the nations largest charities specializing in addiction. At current, specialized practice helping families and individuals in crisis. CEO-Founder of Recover Integrity, extended care treatment for men www.recoverintegrity.com
Whether it is you or your loved one that feels lost, with over 16 years of personal sobriety I know first hand that addiction is not hopeless .
Interventionist and Sober Coach with over 20,000 hours of specialization in addiction. Over the last 15 years I have helped thousands of individuals and families suffering from issues of substance abuse. Past Family Program Director, and Clinical Director for one of the nations largest charities specializing in addiction. At current, specialized practice helping families and individuals in crisis. CEO-Founder of Recover Integrity, extended care treatment for men www.recoverintegrity.com
(310) 912-3476 View (310) 912-3476
Photo of Penn Shelton, LCSW, CADC-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Penn Shelton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90066  (Online Only)
Whether you're struggling with addiction, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, I am here to guide you towards discovering your inner strengths and resources.
As a therapist specializing in mental health, addiction recovery, trauma, relationships, and family dynamics, I have been helping adults, adolescents, couples and families navigate the challenges of life for the past twelve years of clinical experience. Drawing from my experience as an addiction counselor since 2015, 5 years as a therapist, my personal journey of recovery for 13 years, I have developed a unique and integrated therapeutic framework that empowers my clients to discover the root cause of their problems. As my client, I will guide you to your truth rather than trying to impose my ideas of what I think is best for you.
Whether you're struggling with addiction, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, I am here to guide you towards discovering your inner strengths and resources.
As a therapist specializing in mental health, addiction recovery, trauma, relationships, and family dynamics, I have been helping adults, adolescents, couples and families navigate the challenges of life for the past twelve years of clinical experience. Drawing from my experience as an addiction counselor since 2015, 5 years as a therapist, my personal journey of recovery for 13 years, I have developed a unique and integrated therapeutic framework that empowers my clients to discover the root cause of their problems. As my client, I will guide you to your truth rather than trying to impose my ideas of what I think is best for you.
(310) 484-5751 View (310) 484-5751
Photo of Jennifer Salkin, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Salkin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Culver City, CA 90232
My training and experience treating addiction, anxiety, depression and trauma allows me to provide a deep understanding and guide you to your own understanding of the issues that effect your life.
I treat addiction, depression, anxiety and trauma related issues. Treatment focuses on allowing you to gain insight, knowledge and power over the issues and circumstances in your life and developing new, healthy, and useful coping strategies. My ability to connect easily with clients allows us to explore your needs while being free to express yourself without judgement.
My training and experience treating addiction, anxiety, depression and trauma allows me to provide a deep understanding and guide you to your own understanding of the issues that effect your life.
I treat addiction, depression, anxiety and trauma related issues. Treatment focuses on allowing you to gain insight, knowledge and power over the issues and circumstances in your life and developing new, healthy, and useful coping strategies. My ability to connect easily with clients allows us to explore your needs while being free to express yourself without judgement.
(424) 329-8656 View (424) 329-8656
Photo of Tracy R Zemansky, PhD, CSAT-S, MFT, Psychologist
Tracy R Zemansky
Psychologist, PhD, CSAT-S, MFT
Verified Verified
Culver City, CA 90066
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist, Clinical Sex Addiction Therapist - Supervisor, and licensed MFT with a private practice in Santa Monica, California since 1994. I offer interpersonal psychotherapy with individuals, families, and groups as well as psychological testing and assessment. My areas of expertise include: substance and process addictions, trauma/abuse, positive psychology, impaired professionals and first-responders, as well as grief/loss, disfigurement, and cross-cultural issues. I provide traditional, forensic, and pre-employment psychological assessment as well as Collaborative/Therapeutic evaluations.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist, Clinical Sex Addiction Therapist - Supervisor, and licensed MFT with a private practice in Santa Monica, California since 1994. I offer interpersonal psychotherapy with individuals, families, and groups as well as psychological testing and assessment. My areas of expertise include: substance and process addictions, trauma/abuse, positive psychology, impaired professionals and first-responders, as well as grief/loss, disfigurement, and cross-cultural issues. I provide traditional, forensic, and pre-employment psychological assessment as well as Collaborative/Therapeutic evaluations.
(424) 396-0349 View (424) 396-0349
Photo of Tom Szabadi, MA, LMFT, LPCC, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tom Szabadi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90066
My own extensive life experience, coupled with my experience in the mental health and addiction fields can provide valuable participation and insight into your journey.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship/intimacy issues, infidelity/betrayal, addiction, and alcohol/ substance abuse disorders. I am a sex-positive therapist who works with clients of all sexual orientations and gender identities. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which can assist with resolving lingering effects of past traumatic memories. It can also lesson the hold of negativity and limiting beliefs and move you to a much healthier self-concept and higher self-esteem.
My own extensive life experience, coupled with my experience in the mental health and addiction fields can provide valuable participation and insight into your journey.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship/intimacy issues, infidelity/betrayal, addiction, and alcohol/ substance abuse disorders. I am a sex-positive therapist who works with clients of all sexual orientations and gender identities. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which can assist with resolving lingering effects of past traumatic memories. It can also lesson the hold of negativity and limiting beliefs and move you to a much healthier self-concept and higher self-esteem.
(213) 513-7301 View (213) 513-7301
Photo of Claudia Chandler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Claudia Chandler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Culver City, CA 90066
I specialize in working with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship difficulties.
Feel empowered now. It's hard to know when to look for help. Whether it's the loss of a loved one, relationship difficulties, or persistent feelings of sadness and anxiety, sometimes it can be too much. As a therapist, I've worked collaboratively with individuals, couples, and families for over a decade to explore current problems and develop solutions.
I specialize in working with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship difficulties.
Feel empowered now. It's hard to know when to look for help. Whether it's the loss of a loved one, relationship difficulties, or persistent feelings of sadness and anxiety, sometimes it can be too much. As a therapist, I've worked collaboratively with individuals, couples, and families for over a decade to explore current problems and develop solutions.
(323) 716-0403 View (323) 716-0403
Photo of Lucy Oh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lucy Oh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90232  (Online Only)
My expertise lies in supporting individuals navigate issues related to depression, anxiety, challenging life transitions, stress and burnout, addiction, gender identity, and intergenerational trauma.
At times, you may encounter feeling stuck and seek an alternative perspective to break out of unhelpful patterns. In such moments, a purposeful therapeutic connection can offer a safe space to gain self-awareness, delve into your authentic self, and heal, empowering you to move forward. As a culturally sensitive and mindfulness-based therapist, I provide a judgment-free space to process traumatic events, discover meaning and fulfillment, and take steps to embrace life in its entirety.
My expertise lies in supporting individuals navigate issues related to depression, anxiety, challenging life transitions, stress and burnout, addiction, gender identity, and intergenerational trauma.
At times, you may encounter feeling stuck and seek an alternative perspective to break out of unhelpful patterns. In such moments, a purposeful therapeutic connection can offer a safe space to gain self-awareness, delve into your authentic self, and heal, empowering you to move forward. As a culturally sensitive and mindfulness-based therapist, I provide a judgment-free space to process traumatic events, discover meaning and fulfillment, and take steps to embrace life in its entirety.
(323) 859-6261 View (323) 859-6261
Photo of Greg Binns, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Greg Binns
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Culver City, CA 90232  (Online Only)
I have worked with people on a wide range of issues including but not limited to addiction (chemical, sexual, love/relationship), anxiety, depression, anger problems, communication, sexual problems, social difficulties, self-esteem, and existential/spiritual issues.
I provide a reliable space for talking about what affects you most deeply in your love, work, creative and spiritual life. I will help you develop pragmatic approaches to achieving greater fulfillment and less distress. As we carefully develop an understanding of your internal and interpersonal life, our dialogue will afford you a deeper understanding of how you function with others and how you create meaning for yourself. I regard each person's therapy as completely unique. We will work together to set the goals, pace, and content of your treatment, as well as examine the nature of our working relationship.
I have worked with people on a wide range of issues including but not limited to addiction (chemical, sexual, love/relationship), anxiety, depression, anger problems, communication, sexual problems, social difficulties, self-esteem, and existential/spiritual issues.
I provide a reliable space for talking about what affects you most deeply in your love, work, creative and spiritual life. I will help you develop pragmatic approaches to achieving greater fulfillment and less distress. As we carefully develop an understanding of your internal and interpersonal life, our dialogue will afford you a deeper understanding of how you function with others and how you create meaning for yourself. I regard each person's therapy as completely unique. We will work together to set the goals, pace, and content of your treatment, as well as examine the nature of our working relationship.
(323) 312-3762 View (323) 312-3762
Photo of Alicia Brandt, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alicia Brandt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90066
Are you feeling stuck? Are you questioning retirement, looking for a "third act" in your life? Is your relationship stagnant or in crisis? Have you ended one addiction, only to have another pop up? Are you the adult child of a narcissist and having issues with relationships and career?Are you a partner or parent of an addict or person in recovery?Are you ready for change?
Are you feeling stuck? Are you questioning retirement, looking for a "third act" in your life? Is your relationship stagnant or in crisis? Have you ended one addiction, only to have another pop up? Are you the adult child of a narcissist and having issues with relationships and career?Are you a partner or parent of an addict or person in recovery?Are you ready for change?
(323) 870-8228 View (323) 870-8228
Photo of Maegan Casanova - Brain RX
Brain RX
Verified Verified
Culver City, CA 90232
Anxiety, ADD/ADHD, Addiction, Autism Spectrum (Aspergers), Chronic Fatigue, Depression, Headaches and Migraines, Insomnia, Learning Disabilities, OCD, Mood (anger, sadness, rage), PTSD and Developmental Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury.
Brain RX was created to help people clear their head of unwanted, unhelpful, stuck mental patterns and start living a life of direction, purposefulness and hope. Microcurrent Direct Neurofeedback is a quick, passive, painless, safe and effective treatment that helps reset the brain a neurological level. This FDA-cleared treatment is a holistic, drug-free approach to combatting a number of symptoms and disorders. RE-TRAIN. CHANGE. RE-ORGANIZE.
Anxiety, ADD/ADHD, Addiction, Autism Spectrum (Aspergers), Chronic Fatigue, Depression, Headaches and Migraines, Insomnia, Learning Disabilities, OCD, Mood (anger, sadness, rage), PTSD and Developmental Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury.
Brain RX was created to help people clear their head of unwanted, unhelpful, stuck mental patterns and start living a life of direction, purposefulness and hope. Microcurrent Direct Neurofeedback is a quick, passive, painless, safe and effective treatment that helps reset the brain a neurological level. This FDA-cleared treatment is a holistic, drug-free approach to combatting a number of symptoms and disorders. RE-TRAIN. CHANGE. RE-ORGANIZE.
(858) 281-0740 View (858) 281-0740

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.