Addiction Therapists in Waianae, HI

Photo of Christopher Lopa, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Lopa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waianae, HI 96792
Aloha, my name is Christopher Lopa. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor in Hawaii. I find immense fulfillment in working with adolescent clients, particularly those aged 13-19, who are navigating challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. My comfort lies in creating a supportive and empathetic space for them to explore and address these issues. Witnessing their resilience and growth during this critical stage of development is incredibly rewarding, and I am passionate about helping them build the skills and resilience needed for a brighter future.
Aloha, my name is Christopher Lopa. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor in Hawaii. I find immense fulfillment in working with adolescent clients, particularly those aged 13-19, who are navigating challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. My comfort lies in creating a supportive and empathetic space for them to explore and address these issues. Witnessing their resilience and growth during this critical stage of development is incredibly rewarding, and I am passionate about helping them build the skills and resilience needed for a brighter future.
(808) 320-4758 View (808) 320-4758
Photo of Moana Gaspar - West Coast Counseling Services, LMHC, Counselor
West Coast Counseling Services
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Waianae, HI 96792
Aloha Mai Kakou! Anger Management? Feeling Depressed? Stressed Out? Domestic Violence? PTSD? Addiction? Marriage issues? Challenges With Your Children? Are you just satisfied with how things are in your life? Do you want change? Maybe you need to work on your communication with your spouse or your family members? Perhaps your love life has lost its spark? Are you just settling with what things are or the way things are? It is what is it? NO! It is not!! I am offering you the chance to change your life. Make today the start of a new day. I provide individual, couples and or family sessions depending on the need of the client. Malama
Aloha Mai Kakou! Anger Management? Feeling Depressed? Stressed Out? Domestic Violence? PTSD? Addiction? Marriage issues? Challenges With Your Children? Are you just satisfied with how things are in your life? Do you want change? Maybe you need to work on your communication with your spouse or your family members? Perhaps your love life has lost its spark? Are you just settling with what things are or the way things are? It is what is it? NO! It is not!! I am offering you the chance to change your life. Make today the start of a new day. I provide individual, couples and or family sessions depending on the need of the client. Malama
(808) 518-4965 View (808) 518-4965
Photo of Tyson Ortiz, LMHC, Counselor
Tyson Ortiz
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Waianae, HI 96792  (Online Only)
My name is Tyson Ortiz, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who was born and raised on the Big Island. I have spent the last eight years working with victims of sexual abuse, domestic violence and those struggling with addiction. I am in my 20th year of social work and find that the best approach is whatever works best for my client. That can be different for each person. Some benefit from EMDR to eliminate negative cognitions, while others benefit most from having a sounding board to talk through situations. You are the expert on your life, don’t settle until you find the right fit.
My name is Tyson Ortiz, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who was born and raised on the Big Island. I have spent the last eight years working with victims of sexual abuse, domestic violence and those struggling with addiction. I am in my 20th year of social work and find that the best approach is whatever works best for my client. That can be different for each person. Some benefit from EMDR to eliminate negative cognitions, while others benefit most from having a sounding board to talk through situations. You are the expert on your life, don’t settle until you find the right fit.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Alika Querubin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alika Querubin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waianae, HI 96792  (Online Only)
I typically work with adolescents and adults whose challenges include substance abuse, school-based issues, peer conflicts, self-esteem management, depression, PTSD, interpersonal relationships, and family conflict.
Aloha! I'm Alika Querubin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) born and raised on the Big Island of Hawaii. I work primarily with adolescents and adults statewide via telehealth. I've worked in the mental health field for over 20 years, helping our local population to accomplish their goals despite their challenges and disabilities. My professional experience includes working with students on the Autism spectrum, creating school-based behavioral interventions, substance abuse counseling, addressing emotional disabilities, and military veterans with PTSD.
I typically work with adolescents and adults whose challenges include substance abuse, school-based issues, peer conflicts, self-esteem management, depression, PTSD, interpersonal relationships, and family conflict.
Aloha! I'm Alika Querubin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) born and raised on the Big Island of Hawaii. I work primarily with adolescents and adults statewide via telehealth. I've worked in the mental health field for over 20 years, helping our local population to accomplish their goals despite their challenges and disabilities. My professional experience includes working with students on the Autism spectrum, creating school-based behavioral interventions, substance abuse counseling, addressing emotional disabilities, and military veterans with PTSD.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Elnora Waoala Hiers, MSCP, LMHC, NCC, QMHP, Counselor
Elnora Waoala Hiers
Counselor, MSCP, LMHC, NCC, QMHP
Verified Verified
Waianae, HI 96792
Anger Management, Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Anxiety Relaxation Coping Mechanisms, Relationship Building, Social Skills Training Impulse Control, Thought Stopping, Managing Negative Rumination, Catastrophizing, Substance Abuse Addictions, Trauma, Life Coaching.
Are you feeling as if your life isn’t going anywhere? Are you unsatisfied, unhappy, feeling depressed, anxious, or lacking purpose and meaning in your life? Have you felt “stuck” or “feel down in the pit” and lack motivation to accomplish your goals? Do you need balance and happiness in your life and strength to overcome obstacles? Are you feeling disconnected and alone from broken relationships? Turn adversity into opportunity by taking the first step to happiness and abundant living through a collaborative healing process.
Anger Management, Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Anxiety Relaxation Coping Mechanisms, Relationship Building, Social Skills Training Impulse Control, Thought Stopping, Managing Negative Rumination, Catastrophizing, Substance Abuse Addictions, Trauma, Life Coaching.
Are you feeling as if your life isn’t going anywhere? Are you unsatisfied, unhappy, feeling depressed, anxious, or lacking purpose and meaning in your life? Have you felt “stuck” or “feel down in the pit” and lack motivation to accomplish your goals? Do you need balance and happiness in your life and strength to overcome obstacles? Are you feeling disconnected and alone from broken relationships? Turn adversity into opportunity by taking the first step to happiness and abundant living through a collaborative healing process.
(808) 400-6405 View (808) 400-6405
Photo of Melissa Stevens, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Stevens
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Waianae, HI 96792
I have found my style and approach are a good fit for young adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions, relationship issues, communication, substance abuse, and struggles with their mental health.
Aloha and Welcome. My name is Melissa Stevens, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Mental Health counselor based in Hawaii. I also hold a certificate as a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor. My approach focuses on the individual, the strengths of the individual, and their goals. Together, we will work collaboratively and learn how to navigate and work through the struggles you have encountered in order to heal, gain strength, and move towards a healthier future. This provider resides in Hawaii.
I have found my style and approach are a good fit for young adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions, relationship issues, communication, substance abuse, and struggles with their mental health.
Aloha and Welcome. My name is Melissa Stevens, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Mental Health counselor based in Hawaii. I also hold a certificate as a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor. My approach focuses on the individual, the strengths of the individual, and their goals. Together, we will work collaboratively and learn how to navigate and work through the struggles you have encountered in order to heal, gain strength, and move towards a healthier future. This provider resides in Hawaii.
(808) 460-6561 View (808) 460-6561
Photo of Dana Lucio, LMHC, Counselor
Dana Lucio
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Waianae, HI 96792
Aloha, my name is Dana Lucio. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 5 years of therapeutic experience in Hawaii. I am passionate about therapy and I typically alter my clinical approach based on individual needs. I do find additional passion in working with substance abuse, trauma, and emotional regulation. I have a wide range of experience working with diverse ages and diagnoses. I have extended experience working with younger adults (14-24), working with substance use challenges, trauma, and anger management.
Aloha, my name is Dana Lucio. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 5 years of therapeutic experience in Hawaii. I am passionate about therapy and I typically alter my clinical approach based on individual needs. I do find additional passion in working with substance abuse, trauma, and emotional regulation. I have a wide range of experience working with diverse ages and diagnoses. I have extended experience working with younger adults (14-24), working with substance use challenges, trauma, and anger management.
(808) 201-3486 View (808) 201-3486
Photo of Michelle Simpson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Simpson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waianae, HI 96792  (Online Only)
Michelle is experienced in working with those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, chronic medical conditions, substance use, and serious mental illness.
Michelle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nineteen years of experience. She is born and raised on Oahu and earned her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Michelle aims to help individuals work on building confidence and empowering them to make positive changes. Guiding them through hardships so that they can find their way to healthier situations.
Michelle is experienced in working with those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, chronic medical conditions, substance use, and serious mental illness.
Michelle is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with nineteen years of experience. She is born and raised on Oahu and earned her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Michelle aims to help individuals work on building confidence and empowering them to make positive changes. Guiding them through hardships so that they can find their way to healthier situations.
(808) 278-9803 View (808) 278-9803
Photo of Phyllis Rooney, LIMHP, LMHC, Counselor
Phyllis Rooney
Counselor, LIMHP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Waianae, HI 96792
Aloha: Are you tired of trying to better your life and till getting the same results? Why wait until a crises starts? Why pit off what you know you need to do? What are you waiting for? Don't be afraid, you have nothing to lose but everything to gain! FREE counseling services with most participating healthcare insurances. What are your goals? My goal is to help you succeed as long as you are open and willing to work hard at improving your life. We can work out a counseling plan to fit your need.
Aloha: Are you tired of trying to better your life and till getting the same results? Why wait until a crises starts? Why pit off what you know you need to do? What are you waiting for? Don't be afraid, you have nothing to lose but everything to gain! FREE counseling services with most participating healthcare insurances. What are your goals? My goal is to help you succeed as long as you are open and willing to work hard at improving your life. We can work out a counseling plan to fit your need.
(808) 664-1423 View (808) 664-1423
Photo of Christine Ochimas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Ochimas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Waianae, HI 96792  (Online Only)
My name is Christine Ochimas and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. You control your life and actions, but why not bring laughter and happiness to it while you try and figure it out? Think of me as the person who wants to help grow that seed inside of you, bring out the inner child, and awaken the laughter and beauty that has been waiting to come out! I can't wait to meet you!
My name is Christine Ochimas and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. You control your life and actions, but why not bring laughter and happiness to it while you try and figure it out? Think of me as the person who wants to help grow that seed inside of you, bring out the inner child, and awaken the laughter and beauty that has been waiting to come out! I can't wait to meet you!
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Tami Marie Asako Yamashita, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tami Marie Asako Yamashita
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waianae, HI 96792  (Online Only)
My name is Tami Yamashita and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in the state of Hawaii. I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and emotions. My mindfulness-based approach encourages clients to develop greater self-awareness and presence, which is essential in breaking unhelpful patterns and building healthier coping strategies. I specialize in providing compassionate care for individuals dealing with the complexities of mental health, with a strong focus on transforming dysfunctional thought patterns and managing the stressors of daily life.
My name is Tami Yamashita and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in the state of Hawaii. I am committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and emotions. My mindfulness-based approach encourages clients to develop greater self-awareness and presence, which is essential in breaking unhelpful patterns and building healthier coping strategies. I specialize in providing compassionate care for individuals dealing with the complexities of mental health, with a strong focus on transforming dysfunctional thought patterns and managing the stressors of daily life.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Taryn Ivers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taryn Ivers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waianae, HI 96792  (Online Only)
Hi there! My name is Taryn Valdez Ivers, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Hawai'i. I focus on empowering and providing support to adult individuals to make meaningful decisions and changes within their lives while facing the complexities of it. The center of my therapeutic approach is Person-oriented, seeing it from your lens/perspective. I am passionate about supporting individuals to make positive changes within themselves and obtaining preventative measures to cope with new skills and knowledge to navigate the stressors of everyday life.
Hi there! My name is Taryn Valdez Ivers, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Hawai'i. I focus on empowering and providing support to adult individuals to make meaningful decisions and changes within their lives while facing the complexities of it. The center of my therapeutic approach is Person-oriented, seeing it from your lens/perspective. I am passionate about supporting individuals to make positive changes within themselves and obtaining preventative measures to cope with new skills and knowledge to navigate the stressors of everyday life.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Kailee Napoleon, LMHC, Counselor
Kailee Napoleon
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Waianae, HI 96792  (Online Only)
Aloha mai kākou, My name is Kailee Napoleon and I am a Licensed Therapist (LMHC) in the state of Hawai'i. I was born and raised on the island of O'ahu. As a culturally sensitive therapist, I specialize in helping individuals and families navigate a variety of mental health challenges. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, as I also incorporate traditional Hawaiian culture and values to provide holistic and culturally relevant care. I'm committed to empowering my clients to develop the skills and resilience they need to overcome challenges and lead fulfilling lives
Aloha mai kākou, My name is Kailee Napoleon and I am a Licensed Therapist (LMHC) in the state of Hawai'i. I was born and raised on the island of O'ahu. As a culturally sensitive therapist, I specialize in helping individuals and families navigate a variety of mental health challenges. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, as I also incorporate traditional Hawaiian culture and values to provide holistic and culturally relevant care. I'm committed to empowering my clients to develop the skills and resilience they need to overcome challenges and lead fulfilling lives
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Syeda Maharaj, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Syeda Maharaj
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waianae, HI 96792  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Rabia Maharaj, I am here to offer support, clarity, and a safe space where you can openly express and explore your thoughts and feelings. I'm hoping to provide support to you in any way that I can while improving your quality of life and your relationships within them. Life is a journey, and it's not meant to be faced alone, I am honored to be helping you along the way. I like to be personable, casual, and relatable in my therapeutic approach while also challenging you to think outside the box. I will assist you in prioritizing your physical and mental health to live a healthier and happier quality of life.
Hello! My name is Rabia Maharaj, I am here to offer support, clarity, and a safe space where you can openly express and explore your thoughts and feelings. I'm hoping to provide support to you in any way that I can while improving your quality of life and your relationships within them. Life is a journey, and it's not meant to be faced alone, I am honored to be helping you along the way. I like to be personable, casual, and relatable in my therapeutic approach while also challenging you to think outside the box. I will assist you in prioritizing your physical and mental health to live a healthier and happier quality of life.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Lindsay Roth, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay Roth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waianae, HI 96792  (Online Only)
Lindsay A. Roth, LCSW. I take an eclectic approach that includes evidenced-based practices and intuitive modalities, such as astrology and dreamwork, that will be tailored to actualize your unique goals. Social workers are different from other therapists because we are trained to consider the client within their environment. I do not diagnose or medicate. I work to amplify the sovereign wisdom of each individual; while honoring and addressing the ways they may be debilitated by environmental factors such as trauma, oppression, and systemic violence.
Lindsay A. Roth, LCSW. I take an eclectic approach that includes evidenced-based practices and intuitive modalities, such as astrology and dreamwork, that will be tailored to actualize your unique goals. Social workers are different from other therapists because we are trained to consider the client within their environment. I do not diagnose or medicate. I work to amplify the sovereign wisdom of each individual; while honoring and addressing the ways they may be debilitated by environmental factors such as trauma, oppression, and systemic violence.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Elijah Pierick, LMHC, Counselor
Elijah Pierick
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Waianae, HI 96792  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Elijah Pierick. I was raised in Hawaii, am part of a military family, enjoy being outside, exercising, learning, connecting with friends, and helping other people get healthy. I was in the Air Force Chaplain Core, been a hospice chaplain, university counselor, assisting pastor, and am an elected State Representative. I would love to get to know you and help you become healthy. military dependent, joined the military, ran for office, got elected, and now provide counseling services on the side I have a Doctor of Counseling rooted in faith-based therapy.
Hello! I'm Elijah Pierick. I was raised in Hawaii, am part of a military family, enjoy being outside, exercising, learning, connecting with friends, and helping other people get healthy. I was in the Air Force Chaplain Core, been a hospice chaplain, university counselor, assisting pastor, and am an elected State Representative. I would love to get to know you and help you become healthy. military dependent, joined the military, ran for office, got elected, and now provide counseling services on the side I have a Doctor of Counseling rooted in faith-based therapy.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Monique Gomes - Anonui Health & Wellness Hawaii LLC, MFT, CSAC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Anonui Health & Wellness Hawaii LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT, CSAC
Verified Verified
Waianae, HI 96792
Aloha Ka Kou, My name is Monique Pualani Anuenue Gomes and I would be honored to provide you with "Culturally Sensitive" therapeutic services. Please allow me to lend my Kokua (help) and walk with you through this therapeutic journey. Being Native Hawaiian born & raised on Oahu island, have experience working with Hawaii's Unique Multicultural population. According to a recent study by Krogstad (2015) Hawaii is home to the Nation's Largest Multiracial American population. This means, 1 out of 4 individuals (24%) identify with multiracial or multicultural ancestry. Therefore, to provide "culturally sensitive" therapeutic services, is to, provide "competent" therapeutic services.
Aloha Ka Kou, My name is Monique Pualani Anuenue Gomes and I would be honored to provide you with "Culturally Sensitive" therapeutic services. Please allow me to lend my Kokua (help) and walk with you through this therapeutic journey. Being Native Hawaiian born & raised on Oahu island, have experience working with Hawaii's Unique Multicultural population. According to a recent study by Krogstad (2015) Hawaii is home to the Nation's Largest Multiracial American population. This means, 1 out of 4 individuals (24%) identify with multiracial or multicultural ancestry. Therefore, to provide "culturally sensitive" therapeutic services, is to, provide "competent" therapeutic services.
(808) 400-7247 View (808) 400-7247
Photo of Kayla Ennett, PsyD, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kayla Ennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Waianae, HI 96792  (Online Only)
Kayla Ennett, PsyD, LMHC, is a licensed therapist living in Colorado who is very motivated and excited to work with the residents of Hawaii via TeleHealth therapy. Kayla has an eclectic experience with counseling. She started off as a college career counselor and then moved on to school counseling. Later in her career, she began doing therapy with inmates at a state prison then veterans and their families on post. She currently focuses on working with clients and couples who suffer from depression, anxiety, personality disorders, LGBTQ+, and concerns related to intimacy and sex.
Kayla Ennett, PsyD, LMHC, is a licensed therapist living in Colorado who is very motivated and excited to work with the residents of Hawaii via TeleHealth therapy. Kayla has an eclectic experience with counseling. She started off as a college career counselor and then moved on to school counseling. Later in her career, she began doing therapy with inmates at a state prison then veterans and their families on post. She currently focuses on working with clients and couples who suffer from depression, anxiety, personality disorders, LGBTQ+, and concerns related to intimacy and sex.
(808) 825-4214 View (808) 825-4214
Photo of Emilee L Omoto, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emilee L Omoto
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Waianae, HI 96792
Not accepting new clients
Aloha! I am Emilee Omoto and I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist on the Leeward side of Oahu. I have experience working with individuals, families, and couples and specialize in issues including: PTSD (trauma), Anxiety, Depression, Narcisissm, Marital Conflict and Infidelity, Autism and ADHD, Parenting, Domestic Violence, Grief, Substance Abuse, and Anger Management. I specialize in the issues listed above, but welcome patients that may be facing other issues as well. I also offer Christian-based therapy for those who follow, and provide a Hawaiian cultural perspective as well.
Aloha! I am Emilee Omoto and I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist on the Leeward side of Oahu. I have experience working with individuals, families, and couples and specialize in issues including: PTSD (trauma), Anxiety, Depression, Narcisissm, Marital Conflict and Infidelity, Autism and ADHD, Parenting, Domestic Violence, Grief, Substance Abuse, and Anger Management. I specialize in the issues listed above, but welcome patients that may be facing other issues as well. I also offer Christian-based therapy for those who follow, and provide a Hawaiian cultural perspective as well.
(808) 272-5355 View (808) 272-5355

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Yonie Keala Ledward-Herrera - Hawaii Child and Family Therapy, LMHC, MAC, Counselor
Hawaii Child and Family Therapy
Counselor, LMHC, MAC
Verified Verified
Waialua, HI 96791
With over 10 years of experience working with families, adults, and children I am confident that most anyone can get through life's trials with the right support. As a helper I look guide you as you identify, and confront, issues that may be feeding addiction, abusive and stagnant relationships, or simply discouragement. Professionally, I have worked closely with anxiety, depression, and PSTD in outpatient and inpatient settings and also offer continuing care groups. I have extensive experience with military and immigrant families.
With over 10 years of experience working with families, adults, and children I am confident that most anyone can get through life's trials with the right support. As a helper I look guide you as you identify, and confront, issues that may be feeding addiction, abusive and stagnant relationships, or simply discouragement. Professionally, I have worked closely with anxiety, depression, and PSTD in outpatient and inpatient settings and also offer continuing care groups. I have extensive experience with military and immigrant families.
(808) 201-1711 View (808) 201-1711

See more therapy options for Waianae

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.