Addiction Therapists in Sherman Oaks, CA

Photo of Shirley Eylor Asif, PsyD, Psychologist
Shirley Eylor Asif
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
As an expert in addiction and procrastination, I will guide you to face your real challenges, to build new coping skills, and to motivate yourself towards action.
Feeling overwhelmed with life demands? Finding yourself stuck in unsatisfying relationships? Having difficulties with intimacy? Keep fighting with your spouse and children? you know what you need to do but can't motivate yourself to actually do it? In a safe environment, together we can start the process of change and acceptance. Striving towards a balanced life while promoting growth, changing or adjusting old patterns and habits to better suit your current life goals, and sparking the joy of life throughout this process.
As an expert in addiction and procrastination, I will guide you to face your real challenges, to build new coping skills, and to motivate yourself towards action.
Feeling overwhelmed with life demands? Finding yourself stuck in unsatisfying relationships? Having difficulties with intimacy? Keep fighting with your spouse and children? you know what you need to do but can't motivate yourself to actually do it? In a safe environment, together we can start the process of change and acceptance. Striving towards a balanced life while promoting growth, changing or adjusting old patterns and habits to better suit your current life goals, and sparking the joy of life throughout this process.
(310) 896-4694 View (310) 896-4694
Photo of Allison Levine, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison Levine
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
My approach is to help you work through the pain in your life. Focusing on reducing: anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, anger, overeating, ADHD, depression, alcohol/substance issues, codependecy, sleep issues. I am in network with Aetna, Cigna,Optum. I offer a warm and friendly counseling style with lots of feedback and CBT exercises. Specializing in reducing self defeating negative thoughts, increasing positive self talk and raising self confidence. I work towards helping you negotiate through difficult decision making skills with others without losing yourself in the process. A healthier lifestyle with a toolbox full of coping skills.
My approach is to help you work through the pain in your life. Focusing on reducing: anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, anger, overeating, ADHD, depression, alcohol/substance issues, codependecy, sleep issues. I am in network with Aetna, Cigna,Optum. I offer a warm and friendly counseling style with lots of feedback and CBT exercises. Specializing in reducing self defeating negative thoughts, increasing positive self talk and raising self confidence. I work towards helping you negotiate through difficult decision making skills with others without losing yourself in the process. A healthier lifestyle with a toolbox full of coping skills.
(213) 290-3934 View (213) 290-3934
Photo of Stephanie Kavoulakos, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Kavoulakos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Reaching out to a therapist can be a difficult step to take. I know the profound pain that can come with dealing with mental health challenges, including addiction...yours, or as a family member affected by another person's addictive behaviors. I understand how traumatic growing up with an alcoholic/addicted or a dysfunctional parent can be, or being involved in an unhealthy relationship. These experiences can lead to devastating feelings - shame, abandonment, depression, anxiety, isolation, anger, and much more. I invite you to share your feelings in a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel understood & heard.
Reaching out to a therapist can be a difficult step to take. I know the profound pain that can come with dealing with mental health challenges, including addiction...yours, or as a family member affected by another person's addictive behaviors. I understand how traumatic growing up with an alcoholic/addicted or a dysfunctional parent can be, or being involved in an unhealthy relationship. These experiences can lead to devastating feelings - shame, abandonment, depression, anxiety, isolation, anger, and much more. I invite you to share your feelings in a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel understood & heard.
(747) 207-4590 View (747) 207-4590
Roya Tiarraz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (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 Dr. Zoë Ogulnick, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Zoë Ogulnick
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91401  (Online Only)
I feel passionate about my work with addiction, but have also learned that it is merely a symptom of some underlying issue.
[NOW ACCEPTING ONLINE/REMOTE CLIENTS] In my opinion, there is nothing more powerful than authentic human connection. The connection built between therapist and client has the ability to foster immense change and growth. As a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist I feel truly honored to be trusted with this responsibility and want nothing more than to create a safe space for my clients to share their stories.
I feel passionate about my work with addiction, but have also learned that it is merely a symptom of some underlying issue.
[NOW ACCEPTING ONLINE/REMOTE CLIENTS] In my opinion, there is nothing more powerful than authentic human connection. The connection built between therapist and client has the ability to foster immense change and growth. As a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist I feel truly honored to be trusted with this responsibility and want nothing more than to create a safe space for my clients to share their stories.
(626) 624-4367 View (626) 624-4367
Photo of Jessica Steinman, MA, LMFT, CSAT , Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Steinman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
I also work closely with people struggling with addictions such as sex and love addiction, gambling addiction and substance abuse.
Many have lives where we wear many hats; home, career, relationships, family, and it can become overwhelming. When life adds stressors, it can make managing the hats difficult. I work with clients to take control of their lives by learning to set boundaries and discover the best versions of themselves, no matter what life has handed them in their pasts or in the present. My goal is for each person to learn why they are the way they are, learn how to progress through life, choose different paths, change patterns and behaviors to find a hopeful, peaceful sense of self.
I also work closely with people struggling with addictions such as sex and love addiction, gambling addiction and substance abuse.
Many have lives where we wear many hats; home, career, relationships, family, and it can become overwhelming. When life adds stressors, it can make managing the hats difficult. I work with clients to take control of their lives by learning to set boundaries and discover the best versions of themselves, no matter what life has handed them in their pasts or in the present. My goal is for each person to learn why they are the way they are, learn how to progress through life, choose different paths, change patterns and behaviors to find a hopeful, peaceful sense of self.
(213) 322-0928 View (213) 322-0928
Photo of Joanne Barron, PsyD, Psychologist
Joanne Barron
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
I work with Complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety and addiction and see clients for a wide range of psychological disorders including; codependency, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues.
When life isn't going well, or you feel stuck, anxious, depressed or angry. Therapy may help you to move beyond patterns and circumstances that are causing distress. Those who have experienced trauma , childhood neglect or abuse can benefit from trauma focused therapy to help move beyond the past. Together we can explore what is keeping you from living the life you want, and work towards more fulfilling relationships , increased connection to self, and a deeper capacity for joy. Whether you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, panic, fear, addiction, numbness, isolation or depression therapy can help in facilitating change.
I work with Complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety and addiction and see clients for a wide range of psychological disorders including; codependency, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues.
When life isn't going well, or you feel stuck, anxious, depressed or angry. Therapy may help you to move beyond patterns and circumstances that are causing distress. Those who have experienced trauma , childhood neglect or abuse can benefit from trauma focused therapy to help move beyond the past. Together we can explore what is keeping you from living the life you want, and work towards more fulfilling relationships , increased connection to self, and a deeper capacity for joy. Whether you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, panic, fear, addiction, numbness, isolation or depression therapy can help in facilitating change.
(818) 616-6888 View (818) 616-6888
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
Photo of Dr. Robert B. Weiss, LCSW, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Robert B. Weiss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Rob is the author of eleven books, including Prodependence: Beyond the Myth of Codependency, Sex Addiction 101, and Out of the Doghouse.
Dr. Robert Weiss LCSW, CSAT is Chief Clinical Officer of Seeking Integrity LLC, which provides residential and online treatment, education, and support for male sexual addicts and their families. Seeking Integrity also offers specialized residential treatment for men with sex/porn addiction/intimacy disorders or those with co-occurring sexual and substance abuse disorders. Expert holistic treatment provided in 14, 21 or 28 day length of stay. Separately: Online workgroups provide psychoeducation in a 6 week, 90 minutes per week format. Many free resources provided also.
Rob is the author of eleven books, including Prodependence: Beyond the Myth of Codependency, Sex Addiction 101, and Out of the Doghouse.
Dr. Robert Weiss LCSW, CSAT is Chief Clinical Officer of Seeking Integrity LLC, which provides residential and online treatment, education, and support for male sexual addicts and their families. Seeking Integrity also offers specialized residential treatment for men with sex/porn addiction/intimacy disorders or those with co-occurring sexual and substance abuse disorders. Expert holistic treatment provided in 14, 21 or 28 day length of stay. Separately: Online workgroups provide psychoeducation in a 6 week, 90 minutes per week format. Many free resources provided also.
(747) 998-0517 View (747) 998-0517
Photo of Elena Gharibian, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elena Gharibian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
I have 5 years of experience working with clients of all ages, ranging from depression and anxiety to childhood trauma and addiction.
As someone who’s been through my own healing journey, I have a profound appreciation for the therapeutic process and the changes people are capable of making in their lives. I know the healing power of having a trusted guide and supportive person. I understand the transformation that takes place from being truly heard and seen by a compassionate other. As a therapist, I endeavor to provide these things to my clients. I offer a safe space where you can express your worst fears and deepest hopes, without fear of judgment or criticism. Together, we will work to find relief from your suffering and develop the capacity for genuine joy.
I have 5 years of experience working with clients of all ages, ranging from depression and anxiety to childhood trauma and addiction.
As someone who’s been through my own healing journey, I have a profound appreciation for the therapeutic process and the changes people are capable of making in their lives. I know the healing power of having a trusted guide and supportive person. I understand the transformation that takes place from being truly heard and seen by a compassionate other. As a therapist, I endeavor to provide these things to my clients. I offer a safe space where you can express your worst fears and deepest hopes, without fear of judgment or criticism. Together, we will work to find relief from your suffering and develop the capacity for genuine joy.
(310) 361-3977 View (310) 361-3977
Photo of Lynne Friedman-Gell, PhD, Psychologist
Lynne Friedman-Gell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
My expertise as a therapist is in creating a safe and trusting connection as the foundation of our work. Are you struggling with anxiety, trauma, addiction, depression or multiple issues? Through collaboration, attunement and curiosity, explore the life you want, what interferes with achieving it, and how life experiences influence relational dynamics and perceptions of the world. I support this process of exploration towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life, with healthier connections to self and others. Treatment focus is also on strengths and experiencing a sense of empowerment, resiliency, aliveness and joy in your life!
My expertise as a therapist is in creating a safe and trusting connection as the foundation of our work. Are you struggling with anxiety, trauma, addiction, depression or multiple issues? Through collaboration, attunement and curiosity, explore the life you want, what interferes with achieving it, and how life experiences influence relational dynamics and perceptions of the world. I support this process of exploration towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life, with healthier connections to self and others. Treatment focus is also on strengths and experiencing a sense of empowerment, resiliency, aliveness and joy in your life!
(424) 401-3705 View (424) 401-3705
Photo of Jody P Evans, LMFT, JD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jody P Evans
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, JD
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety or emotional upheaval? Are you struggling with an addiction to a substance or to a behavior (e.g. food addiction, gambling addiction)? Do you feel completely defeated because you don't have the coping tools to remain sober? I have been working in the field of addictions for the past 10 years and have been a primary therapist and Clinical director of several detox/residential facilities in the Los Angeles area. I am open to doing individual, couples and family therapy. I have 5 years of experience working with eating disorders.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety or emotional upheaval? Are you struggling with an addiction to a substance or to a behavior (e.g. food addiction, gambling addiction)? Do you feel completely defeated because you don't have the coping tools to remain sober? I have been working in the field of addictions for the past 10 years and have been a primary therapist and Clinical director of several detox/residential facilities in the Los Angeles area. I am open to doing individual, couples and family therapy. I have 5 years of experience working with eating disorders.
(323) 996-3756 View (323) 996-3756
Photo of Amy Clayton, PsyD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Clayton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91401
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 Theresa J Leinweber, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Theresa J Leinweber
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
Available immediately. I work with people confronting the consequences of sexual addiction and compulsion. If you’re dealing with the shame of your own sexual behavior or suffering from the painful discovery of an addicted partner’s infidelity (again?), you have suffered enough. Betrayal trauma is all consuming. By booking a consultation with me to honestly confront the problem, you begin the process of restoring your sanity and sexual integrity. You’ll get empathy, understanding and safety to uncover feelings, secrets, lies and patterns that no longer serve you. Making informed decisions about your future begins here.
Available immediately. I work with people confronting the consequences of sexual addiction and compulsion. If you’re dealing with the shame of your own sexual behavior or suffering from the painful discovery of an addicted partner’s infidelity (again?), you have suffered enough. Betrayal trauma is all consuming. By booking a consultation with me to honestly confront the problem, you begin the process of restoring your sanity and sexual integrity. You’ll get empathy, understanding and safety to uncover feelings, secrets, lies and patterns that no longer serve you. Making informed decisions about your future begins here.
(818) 426-3311 View (818) 426-3311
Photo of Andrew D. Greif, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrew D. Greif
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
It takes a great deal of courage to embark on an experience of bettering one’s life. I feel honored to be a part of that process. Clients arrive in therapy for a myriad of different reasons, but most of all, seem to have a very clear goal of bettering their lives. I truly enjoy collaborating with Clients to make this happen, and strive to give my Clients tools to use many years into the future. I work with children, adolescents, adults and couples with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, relationship issues and addiction.
It takes a great deal of courage to embark on an experience of bettering one’s life. I feel honored to be a part of that process. Clients arrive in therapy for a myriad of different reasons, but most of all, seem to have a very clear goal of bettering their lives. I truly enjoy collaborating with Clients to make this happen, and strive to give my Clients tools to use many years into the future. I work with children, adolescents, adults and couples with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, relationship issues and addiction.
(818) 848-1488 View (818) 848-1488
Photo of Jennifer Schneider, PhD, Psychologist
Jennifer Schneider
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
My areas of specialty include treating individuals with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addiction and chemical dependency, and eating disorders.
In my therapy practice, I nurture a trusting relationship; one in which clients can feel safe to explore their thoughts and feelings. I work collaboratively and am interactive in my approach to therapy. I believe it is the relationship between a client and therapist that is paramount in creating lasting change and personal healing. Developing trust, understanding and authenticity is essential before any meaningful healing can take place. I work with my patients to help them achieve an awareness of themselves and their personal histories in order to broaden and deepen their sense of self-efficacy and self-esteem.
My areas of specialty include treating individuals with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addiction and chemical dependency, and eating disorders.
In my therapy practice, I nurture a trusting relationship; one in which clients can feel safe to explore their thoughts and feelings. I work collaboratively and am interactive in my approach to therapy. I believe it is the relationship between a client and therapist that is paramount in creating lasting change and personal healing. Developing trust, understanding and authenticity is essential before any meaningful healing can take place. I work with my patients to help them achieve an awareness of themselves and their personal histories in order to broaden and deepen their sense of self-efficacy and self-esteem.
(310) 402-0621 View (310) 402-0621
Photo of Elisabeth S Sadler, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elisabeth S Sadler
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Are you looking for answers? Did you know that you have all the answers; all you need is within your grasp if you know where to look and how to access them. ANGER, ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, or SUBSTANCE ABUSE destroy the spirit of the person as well as their relationships. Finding your true authentic self requires only the repetition of new and productive behaviors for change. Call me and we can start today!
Are you looking for answers? Did you know that you have all the answers; all you need is within your grasp if you know where to look and how to access them. ANGER, ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, or SUBSTANCE ABUSE destroy the spirit of the person as well as their relationships. Finding your true authentic self requires only the repetition of new and productive behaviors for change. Call me and we can start today!
(818) 381-4959 View (818) 381-4959
Photo of Laura Calnan, PsyD, Psychologist
Laura Calnan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I also have a comprehensive understanding of the addiction/recovery process and the deeper work on self that is necessary for long-term recovery.
My goal in therapy is to facilitate self-exploration in an attempt to heal and make sense of difficult situations, emotional states and relationships. I do this by providing a safe space to explore, free of judgments and agendas. Many of us get stuck in particular patterns just like grooves in a record and we never get out of those patterns. Through work in therapy we can create new grooves that result in different responses to the situations, emotions and relationships of life. The aim of therapy is to develop an awareness of our cognitive, behavioral and emotional patterns so that we can change them. Teletherapy & sliding scale.
I also have a comprehensive understanding of the addiction/recovery process and the deeper work on self that is necessary for long-term recovery.
My goal in therapy is to facilitate self-exploration in an attempt to heal and make sense of difficult situations, emotional states and relationships. I do this by providing a safe space to explore, free of judgments and agendas. Many of us get stuck in particular patterns just like grooves in a record and we never get out of those patterns. Through work in therapy we can create new grooves that result in different responses to the situations, emotions and relationships of life. The aim of therapy is to develop an awareness of our cognitive, behavioral and emotional patterns so that we can change them. Teletherapy & sliding scale.
(818) 962-6449 View (818) 962-6449
Photo of Leslie Ackerman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leslie Ackerman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Are you struggling with problems in relationships? Hoping someone will change? Do you get lost in a relationship? I can help you. I have extensive experience working with families/couples/individuals struggling with substance abuse, eating disorders, gambling and self destructive behaviors. I collaborate with my clients to achieve their goals while gaining insight into their patterns of behavior. Our work will help regulate emotions, to respond, not react. I am passionate about collaborating with clients using a variety of modalities. My clients feel secure, in a trusting environment as we address any concerns and goals.
Are you struggling with problems in relationships? Hoping someone will change? Do you get lost in a relationship? I can help you. I have extensive experience working with families/couples/individuals struggling with substance abuse, eating disorders, gambling and self destructive behaviors. I collaborate with my clients to achieve their goals while gaining insight into their patterns of behavior. Our work will help regulate emotions, to respond, not react. I am passionate about collaborating with clients using a variety of modalities. My clients feel secure, in a trusting environment as we address any concerns and goals.
(818) 962-2786 View (818) 962-2786
Photo of Jessica Fieldman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Fieldman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist whose practice has four main focuses: (1) addiction; (2) young adults feeling overwhelmed by the transition to life after college; (3) individuals struggling to find love; and (4) couples facing difficulty starting a family. I have a Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Phillips Graduate University, a Master's Degree in Business Taxation from the University of Southern California, and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from the University of California, Berkeley.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist whose practice has four main focuses: (1) addiction; (2) young adults feeling overwhelmed by the transition to life after college; (3) individuals struggling to find love; and (4) couples facing difficulty starting a family. I have a Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Phillips Graduate University, a Master's Degree in Business Taxation from the University of Southern California, and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from the University of California, Berkeley.
(818) 794-7021 View (818) 794-7021
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Addiction Therapists

What is the best therapy for addiction?

Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.

How long does therapy for addiction take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.

How effective is drug addiction treatment?

Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?

The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.