Addiction Therapists in Lake Balboa, CA

Photo of Dr. Brendan J Nierenberg, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Brendan J Nierenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Balboa, CA 91406  (Online Only)
I have been very fortunate to work with a wide range of populations including traumatic brain injury, substance abuse, eating disorders, couples and relationship issues, gender identity issues, borderline personality disorder, and men's issues.
It takes a great amount of courage to be seeking a therapist as you are doing right now. You have made the choice to seek out help, and for that, I can say you are already on your journey of healing. In a session with me, you will find acceptance, understanding, and compassion with any challenge you are facing. No matter what your goal is, you don't have to do it alone.
I have been very fortunate to work with a wide range of populations including traumatic brain injury, substance abuse, eating disorders, couples and relationship issues, gender identity issues, borderline personality disorder, and men's issues.
It takes a great amount of courage to be seeking a therapist as you are doing right now. You have made the choice to seek out help, and for that, I can say you are already on your journey of healing. In a session with me, you will find acceptance, understanding, and compassion with any challenge you are facing. No matter what your goal is, you don't have to do it alone.
(805) 243-1580 View (805) 243-1580
Photo of George Livengood, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
George Livengood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lake Balboa, CA 91406  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience in depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and addiction at the inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, and outpatient levels.
Choosing a therapist can be difficult, complicated by therapy jargon. To put it simply, we will examine your past, evaluate your present, and collaborate on your future. Therapy is not without risk. However, I will provide a safe environment and a non-judgmental ear for you to explore your life and its infinite possibilities. You will determine where you want to go, and I will work with you to help you get there. I look forward to hearing from you.
I have extensive experience in depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and addiction at the inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, and outpatient levels.
Choosing a therapist can be difficult, complicated by therapy jargon. To put it simply, we will examine your past, evaluate your present, and collaborate on your future. Therapy is not without risk. However, I will provide a safe environment and a non-judgmental ear for you to explore your life and its infinite possibilities. You will determine where you want to go, and I will work with you to help you get there. I look forward to hearing from you.
(760) 274-0176 View (760) 274-0176
Photo of Helaine Harris - Helaine Harris, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Helaine Harris, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Balboa, CA 91406
Therapist who adds another dimension of healing. Clients call me "The Wound Detector," because of my intuitive ability of getting to their core issues & rapidly turning those challenges around. Deep-seated conscious & unconscious issues are the origin of anxiety, depression, financial, career, relationship & health challenges. Oftentimes, clients feel much lighter after one session. Guiding you to your emotional freedom & empowerment is my goal for you. Our work is done in a safe & gentle environment, allowing you to open yourself to your gifts & magnificence that lie underneath your pain. I take PPO insurance & AETNA in-network.
Therapist who adds another dimension of healing. Clients call me "The Wound Detector," because of my intuitive ability of getting to their core issues & rapidly turning those challenges around. Deep-seated conscious & unconscious issues are the origin of anxiety, depression, financial, career, relationship & health challenges. Oftentimes, clients feel much lighter after one session. Guiding you to your emotional freedom & empowerment is my goal for you. Our work is done in a safe & gentle environment, allowing you to open yourself to your gifts & magnificence that lie underneath your pain. I take PPO insurance & AETNA in-network.
(818) 962-4606 View (818) 962-4606
Photo of Justine Gordon, AMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Justine Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Lake Balboa, CA 91406
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
(323) 859-6635 View (323) 859-6635
Photo of Ann Anderson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ann Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lake Balboa, CA 91406
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
(323) 897-8510 View (323) 897-8510
Photo of Dr. Reena Becerra, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Reena Becerra
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lake Balboa, CA 91406  (Online Only)
You are looking to ease the pain. You have been through so much that it's hard to continue to be strong in this moment. You long to feel understood, have peaceful and easy relationships and to leave toxic people and behaviors behind. It would be so nice to feel whole again.. to smile and feel like you are living your truth. You want to have meaning in your life and respectful relationships and to let go of all that is holding you back. It is possible to have the life you desire, complete with healthy communication, self care and the happiness and empowerment that you deserve. Let me help you feel like life makes more sense.
You are looking to ease the pain. You have been through so much that it's hard to continue to be strong in this moment. You long to feel understood, have peaceful and easy relationships and to leave toxic people and behaviors behind. It would be so nice to feel whole again.. to smile and feel like you are living your truth. You want to have meaning in your life and respectful relationships and to let go of all that is holding you back. It is possible to have the life you desire, complete with healthy communication, self care and the happiness and empowerment that you deserve. Let me help you feel like life makes more sense.
(805) 222-4639 View (805) 222-4639
Photo of Bryan Hall, LMFT, CAMF, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bryan Hall
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CAMF
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lake Balboa, CA 91406  (Online Only)
As a long time industry veteran, including years of being surrounded by highly dysfunctional behavior in recording studios, I understand the stress, hours, and pressure that creative people face. Whether its depression, abusive bosses, or creative blocks, we can work on unraveling the problems and getting through them. Similar to the "man behind the curtain" in the Wizard of Oz, there may be subconscious factors that are influencing your feelings, thoughts and decisions on a daily basis. Together we may be able to identify and neutralize any of these hidden or mysterious issues that appear to be holding you back.
As a long time industry veteran, including years of being surrounded by highly dysfunctional behavior in recording studios, I understand the stress, hours, and pressure that creative people face. Whether its depression, abusive bosses, or creative blocks, we can work on unraveling the problems and getting through them. Similar to the "man behind the curtain" in the Wizard of Oz, there may be subconscious factors that are influencing your feelings, thoughts and decisions on a daily basis. Together we may be able to identify and neutralize any of these hidden or mysterious issues that appear to be holding you back.
(323) 303-3987 View (323) 303-3987
Photo of Erick Santos, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erick Santos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Lake Balboa, CA 91406
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences that often leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome past experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences that often leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome past experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
(323) 677-2839 View (323) 677-2839
Photo of Guadalupe Avitia, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Guadalupe Avitia
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Balboa, CA 91406
If you're feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, know that you don't have to face them alone. I offer a compassionate, safe space where your thoughts and feelings are welcomed and respected. Together, we can explore your experiences, unravel the complexities of your emotions, and work towards the goals that matter most to you. Whether you're navigating relationship issues, grappling with anxiety or depression, or seeking to heal from trauma, my approach is tailored to meet you where you are.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, know that you don't have to face them alone. I offer a compassionate, safe space where your thoughts and feelings are welcomed and respected. Together, we can explore your experiences, unravel the complexities of your emotions, and work towards the goals that matter most to you. Whether you're navigating relationship issues, grappling with anxiety or depression, or seeking to heal from trauma, my approach is tailored to meet you where you are.
(323) 968-6796 View (323) 968-6796
Photo of Danielle Cutler, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danielle Cutler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lake Balboa, CA 91406
Not accepting new clients
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and a Certified ADHD Professional. I work through a depth-psychology lens to pinpoint and heal developmental and trauma wounds by identifying unconscious/subconscious thoughts that create the symptoms that lead you to therapy. Meanwhile, I simultaneously provide knowledge and tools to empower and guide you to discovery of your true Self. During the pandemic I experienced and then trained in brainspotting, which I use in person, online, and over the phone to nuke the source of stubborn symptoms that have not responded to traditional talk therapy.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and a Certified ADHD Professional. I work through a depth-psychology lens to pinpoint and heal developmental and trauma wounds by identifying unconscious/subconscious thoughts that create the symptoms that lead you to therapy. Meanwhile, I simultaneously provide knowledge and tools to empower and guide you to discovery of your true Self. During the pandemic I experienced and then trained in brainspotting, which I use in person, online, and over the phone to nuke the source of stubborn symptoms that have not responded to traditional talk therapy.
(818) 369-3078 View (818) 369-3078

More Therapists Nearby

Roya Tiarraz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91411  (Online Only)
I specialize in relationship issues, addiction and depression.
Do you struggle in your relationship? Are you not feeling like yourself? Do you experience depressive or anxious symptoms that are bothersome? If you find yourself answering yes to any of these questions, seeking therapy can help.
I specialize in relationship issues, addiction and depression.
Do you struggle in your relationship? Are you not feeling like yourself? Do you experience depressive or anxious symptoms that are bothersome? If you find yourself answering yes to any of these questions, seeking therapy can help.
(818) 721-9186 View (818) 721-9186
Photo of Andy Dukeshire, LCSW, CADC-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andy Dukeshire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC-II
Verified Verified
Reseda, CA 91335  (Online Only)
Thank you for visiting my profile. I have over 16 years of experience in the treatment of adults with a dual diagnosis of addiction & mental health disorder which includes detoxification, residential and outpatient facilities. My experience has afforded me the opportunity to work with people from all over the world and all different walks of life as well as addressing a variety of issues - addiction, codependency, anxiety, depression, motivation, trauma, self-esteem, anger, life changes, crises, relationship, mood, personality and psychotic disorders.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I have over 16 years of experience in the treatment of adults with a dual diagnosis of addiction & mental health disorder which includes detoxification, residential and outpatient facilities. My experience has afforded me the opportunity to work with people from all over the world and all different walks of life as well as addressing a variety of issues - addiction, codependency, anxiety, depression, motivation, trauma, self-esteem, anger, life changes, crises, relationship, mood, personality and psychotic disorders.
(747) 318-5304 View (747) 318-5304
Photo of Christine Rivlin, LPCC, Counselor
Christine Rivlin
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91405
I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing addiction issues, and eating disorders.
I work primarily with adults who are wanting to manage symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I will be with you on your path to discovery, recovery, and finding the person you would like to become. I approach therapy with a client-centered approach in order to create a safe, comfortable space for you to share and express yourself, and your vulnerabilities. We will explore healthy ways to process your trauma, regulate difficult emotions, and restore broken relationships. I believe the trust built between Client and Therapist is powerful, and necessary in order to help you through your healing journey.
I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing addiction issues, and eating disorders.
I work primarily with adults who are wanting to manage symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I will be with you on your path to discovery, recovery, and finding the person you would like to become. I approach therapy with a client-centered approach in order to create a safe, comfortable space for you to share and express yourself, and your vulnerabilities. We will explore healthy ways to process your trauma, regulate difficult emotions, and restore broken relationships. I believe the trust built between Client and Therapist is powerful, and necessary in order to help you through your healing journey.
(669) 201-4356 View (669) 201-4356
Photo of Lital Shvarts, PsyD, Psychologist
Lital Shvarts
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436  (Online Only)
I treat clients who are dealing with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, addiction, eating disorders, co-dependency, interpersonal problems, childhood or adult trauma and grief and loss.
Establishing a meaningful therapeutic connection is the foundation for learning how to improve one's quality of life, develop healthy relationships and cope more effectively with life stressors. Through the therapeutic relationship, I work together with my clients to address and resolve various psychological symptoms and underlying concerns to help them lead healthier lives. I specialize in treating individuals who may be having difficulty coping with present life problems or trying to manage living with the impact of traumatic experiences. I believe that developing healthy coping skills and processing underlying issues leads to a relief in symptoms and an ability to re-engage in life.
I treat clients who are dealing with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, addiction, eating disorders, co-dependency, interpersonal problems, childhood or adult trauma and grief and loss.
Establishing a meaningful therapeutic connection is the foundation for learning how to improve one's quality of life, develop healthy relationships and cope more effectively with life stressors. Through the therapeutic relationship, I work together with my clients to address and resolve various psychological symptoms and underlying concerns to help them lead healthier lives. I specialize in treating individuals who may be having difficulty coping with present life problems or trying to manage living with the impact of traumatic experiences. I believe that developing healthy coping skills and processing underlying issues leads to a relief in symptoms and an ability to re-engage in life.
(323) 553-7275 View (323) 553-7275
Photo of Amy Clayton, PsyD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Clayton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
Clients bring a wide range of concerns to my office. They experience problems with addiction, depression, loss, grief, stress, relationship problems & family dynamics. Many of my clients are high achieving people struggling w/ a problem. I draw upon my clients' strengths to assist them with making meaningful changes that make a difference in their lives. Because medication combined with psychotherapy is sometimes necessary, I'm available for confidential consultation with your physician or psychiatrist. If you don't have one who can prescribe medication for you, I can provide you with referrals for an evaluation w/ a psychiatrist
Clients bring a wide range of concerns to my office. They experience problems with addiction, depression, loss, grief, stress, relationship problems & family dynamics. Many of my clients are high achieving people struggling w/ a problem. I draw upon my clients' strengths to assist them with making meaningful changes that make a difference in their lives. Because medication combined with psychotherapy is sometimes necessary, I'm available for confidential consultation with your physician or psychiatrist. If you don't have one who can prescribe medication for you, I can provide you with referrals for an evaluation w/ a psychiatrist
(818) 850-7094 View (818) 850-7094
Photo of George (Butch) Warner, LMFT, (CA), CADC-II, LAADC, CCAPP, Marriage & Family Therapist
George (Butch) Warner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, (CA), CADC-II, LAADC, CCAPP
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91416  (Online Only)
(Zoom Video sessions) My ideal client: A creative, motivated, and intelligent professional with an obsession, usually drugs/alcohol and/or sex. A higher percentage of creative people struggle with addiction, because they just don't know when to quit! Creatives frequently have low self-esteem, often despite proven success. Using cognitive (CBT) techniques and psychodynamic methods (how events from the past affect the present) I use a pragmatic, individualized approach. I include solution-focused and music/art therapy to help the client gain insight and put the insight to work to achieve realistic goals.
(Zoom Video sessions) My ideal client: A creative, motivated, and intelligent professional with an obsession, usually drugs/alcohol and/or sex. A higher percentage of creative people struggle with addiction, because they just don't know when to quit! Creatives frequently have low self-esteem, often despite proven success. Using cognitive (CBT) techniques and psychodynamic methods (how events from the past affect the present) I use a pragmatic, individualized approach. I include solution-focused and music/art therapy to help the client gain insight and put the insight to work to achieve realistic goals.
(424) 285-1106 View (424) 285-1106
Photo of Dr. Sisi Yu, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Sisi Yu
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 91335
With addiction recovery, I work from a non-12-step approach to collaborate with you on forming your goals and empower you in changing those unwanted behavior patterns at your pace.
Life is full of unexpected turns and challenges, and you’ve been trying to push through the barriers on your own for a while now. You’ve sought out various ways to make yourself feel better temporarily, but haven’t found something that brings long-term relief. Sometimes, despite your great effort, those overwhelming feelings of loneliness, fear, and helplessness continue to persist. If you're struggling with emotional pain, you don't have to deal with it all alone. What you need may be a safe space where your difficult feelings can be worked through and your authentic self can be seen, understood, and accepted.
With addiction recovery, I work from a non-12-step approach to collaborate with you on forming your goals and empower you in changing those unwanted behavior patterns at your pace.
Life is full of unexpected turns and challenges, and you’ve been trying to push through the barriers on your own for a while now. You’ve sought out various ways to make yourself feel better temporarily, but haven’t found something that brings long-term relief. Sometimes, despite your great effort, those overwhelming feelings of loneliness, fear, and helplessness continue to persist. If you're struggling with emotional pain, you don't have to deal with it all alone. What you need may be a safe space where your difficult feelings can be worked through and your authentic self can be seen, understood, and accepted.
(619) 558-0736 View (619) 558-0736
Photo of Michael W Mackie, PhD, Psychologist
Michael W Mackie
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316
As a Clinical-Forensic Psychologist, Dr. Mike Mackie is able to tailor his approach in order to meet both your clinical and legal needs. As a Clinical Psychologist, Mike teaches young adults and aspiring professionals how to manage the struggles of finding their best self. Amidst a world that sometimes appears to only demand excellence and perfection, Mike assists clients in making realistic, incremental changes in order to achieve success. Additionally, years of experience with addiction treatment offer Dr. Mackie the insight and flexibility to work with those struggling with their drug and alcohol use.
As a Clinical-Forensic Psychologist, Dr. Mike Mackie is able to tailor his approach in order to meet both your clinical and legal needs. As a Clinical Psychologist, Mike teaches young adults and aspiring professionals how to manage the struggles of finding their best self. Amidst a world that sometimes appears to only demand excellence and perfection, Mike assists clients in making realistic, incremental changes in order to achieve success. Additionally, years of experience with addiction treatment offer Dr. Mackie the insight and flexibility to work with those struggling with their drug and alcohol use.
(424) 465-2840 View (424) 465-2840
Photo of Roger Peters, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Roger Peters
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91405
I am an empathetic and compassionate professional committed to providing exceptional care to children, adolescents, adults, the elderly, and families in the area of mental health and substance use disorders.
Greetings! My name is Roger Peters. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, LMFT, with over 17 years of experience. My experiences range from providing counseling to children in a school-based program, drug and alcohol treatment for adults and adolescents, crisis residential, and level 14 group homes. I have worked with Transitional Age Youth (TAY) clients that struggle with the daily stressors of transitioning into adulthood, and I have worked with older adults that struggle with severe mental illness.
I am an empathetic and compassionate professional committed to providing exceptional care to children, adolescents, adults, the elderly, and families in the area of mental health and substance use disorders.
Greetings! My name is Roger Peters. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, LMFT, with over 17 years of experience. My experiences range from providing counseling to children in a school-based program, drug and alcohol treatment for adults and adolescents, crisis residential, and level 14 group homes. I have worked with Transitional Age Youth (TAY) clients that struggle with the daily stressors of transitioning into adulthood, and I have worked with older adults that struggle with severe mental illness.
(442) 250-1731 View (442) 250-1731
Photo of Jodi Milstein - Jodi Milstein, LMFT, LPCC, and RockStarTherapy, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jodi Milstein, LMFT, LPCC, and RockStarTherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91411
I have extensive experience working with clients dealing with addiction, substance abuse & dependence, eating disorders, relationship issues, depression, women's issues, life transitions.
Are you looking for a safe, nurturing, supportive environment where you can work on reaching a higher level of personal satisfaction, fulfillment and happiness? I support the idea that each individual has great freedom in directing his or her own future and resolving past issues as well as a large capacity for achieving personal growth. I believe it is important to remember that everyone's challenges and concerns are unique to them. I take a humanistic approach to psychotherapy. I am flexible in utilizing a variety of theoretical orientations depending upon the client, their personal issues, and communication style.
I have extensive experience working with clients dealing with addiction, substance abuse & dependence, eating disorders, relationship issues, depression, women's issues, life transitions.
Are you looking for a safe, nurturing, supportive environment where you can work on reaching a higher level of personal satisfaction, fulfillment and happiness? I support the idea that each individual has great freedom in directing his or her own future and resolving past issues as well as a large capacity for achieving personal growth. I believe it is important to remember that everyone's challenges and concerns are unique to them. I take a humanistic approach to psychotherapy. I am flexible in utilizing a variety of theoretical orientations depending upon the client, their personal issues, and communication style.
(818) 623-7222 View (818) 623-7222

See more therapy options for Lake Balboa

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.