Addiction Therapists in Aurora, IL

Photo of Gina Weber, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Gina Weber
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60504
During my 11 years in this field, I’ve worked in community mental health, primarily with older teens and adults within the specialties of mental health, substance use disorders, adjustment concerns, and relational issues.
Did you know that 70% of the changes that clients make is based off of the relationship between client and therapist? I pride myself in practicing from a person-centered, strengths-based, and existential framework in order create a safe space for clients, validate their experiences, and provide unconditional positive regard. I use humor and warmth in sessions in order to build a strong therapeutic relationship quickly so that we can work together to achieve your goals.
During my 11 years in this field, I’ve worked in community mental health, primarily with older teens and adults within the specialties of mental health, substance use disorders, adjustment concerns, and relational issues.
Did you know that 70% of the changes that clients make is based off of the relationship between client and therapist? I pride myself in practicing from a person-centered, strengths-based, and existential framework in order create a safe space for clients, validate their experiences, and provide unconditional positive regard. I use humor and warmth in sessions in order to build a strong therapeutic relationship quickly so that we can work together to achieve your goals.
(815) 657-9198 View (815) 657-9198
Photo of Amber Nikkol Reed, LCSW, CADC, CODP I, RYT-200, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Nikkol Reed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CODP I, RYT-200, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60503  (Online Only)
Has anxiety, depression, or trauma hindered you from experiencing life to the fullest? I want to remind you that you are not alone, nor should you continue to feel that way. Perhaps you are struggling with addiction, emotional pain, or feeling overwhelmed with the pressures of life. . . and struggling in solitude can be lonely. Currently, we live in an age that allows for us to disconnect from emotions and our bodies; while subscribing to a culture of suppressing emotions, over extending ourselves with busy schedules, and being unforgiving of failure.
Has anxiety, depression, or trauma hindered you from experiencing life to the fullest? I want to remind you that you are not alone, nor should you continue to feel that way. Perhaps you are struggling with addiction, emotional pain, or feeling overwhelmed with the pressures of life. . . and struggling in solitude can be lonely. Currently, we live in an age that allows for us to disconnect from emotions and our bodies; while subscribing to a culture of suppressing emotions, over extending ourselves with busy schedules, and being unforgiving of failure.
(331) 244-2707 View (331) 244-2707
Photo of Jennifer DiCostanzo, LCSW, CADC, CODP I, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer DiCostanzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CODP I
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60504
My experience as a clinical social worker is vast, but my real passion is treating individuals that struggle with dual diagnosis- both mental health and addiction issues.
As a therapist, I want to ensure that I provide a safe space that allows my clients to express themselves and feel comfortable. I believe in meeting my clients where they are at and letting the client guide the journey as their own experts. My style of therapy is to provide empathy and compassion combined with humor and honesty in order to help my clients achieve their goals. Whether you are affected by trauma, struggling with an addiction or are just feeling "stuck", I want to use my skills to help you move forward with your journey and live your best life possible.
My experience as a clinical social worker is vast, but my real passion is treating individuals that struggle with dual diagnosis- both mental health and addiction issues.
As a therapist, I want to ensure that I provide a safe space that allows my clients to express themselves and feel comfortable. I believe in meeting my clients where they are at and letting the client guide the journey as their own experts. My style of therapy is to provide empathy and compassion combined with humor and honesty in order to help my clients achieve their goals. Whether you are affected by trauma, struggling with an addiction or are just feeling "stuck", I want to use my skills to help you move forward with your journey and live your best life possible.
(630) 318-2027 View (630) 318-2027
Photo of Robert Moore - Sandstone Care Teen & Young Adult Treatment Center, LPC, LAC, CAC-III, CSAC-A
Sandstone Care Teen & Young Adult Treatment Center
LPC, LAC, CAC-III, CSAC-A
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60502
Our clinical team includes licensed professional counselors with substance abuse specializations, a licensed clinical social worker with substance abuse specialization, a family therapist, a family recovery coach, and an academic & vocational specialist.
Sandstone Care Chicago ensures that you receive the correct diagnosis, and helps you find the proper and most effective treatment for your substance use and mental health conditions. We listen to your concerns and meet you wherever you are on your recovery journey.
Our clinical team includes licensed professional counselors with substance abuse specializations, a licensed clinical social worker with substance abuse specialization, a family therapist, a family recovery coach, and an academic & vocational specialist.
Sandstone Care Chicago ensures that you receive the correct diagnosis, and helps you find the proper and most effective treatment for your substance use and mental health conditions. We listen to your concerns and meet you wherever you are on your recovery journey.
(708) 866-1280 View (708) 866-1280
Photo of Nathan Chase, LCPC-IL, LPCMHSP, CADC
Nathan Chase
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC-IL, LPCMHSP, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60506
Specializes in cross-cultural adjustment issues, trauma/PTSD, physical & sexual abuse, healing from racial discrimination, chemical dependency and sexual addictions, young adults, first responders, helping professions, compassion fatigue, at-risk youth, attachment disorders, depression/bi-polar, grief & loss, life transitions, and spiritual development.
Nathan has a pursued a career of inviting others into safety, healing, and growth through counseling, chaplaincy, and mentoring. He is licensed in both Illinois (Telehealth) and Tennessee (in-person and telehealth). Experienced in working with multiple varieties of trauma, addiction, grief, and life transitions.
Specializes in cross-cultural adjustment issues, trauma/PTSD, physical & sexual abuse, healing from racial discrimination, chemical dependency and sexual addictions, young adults, first responders, helping professions, compassion fatigue, at-risk youth, attachment disorders, depression/bi-polar, grief & loss, life transitions, and spiritual development.
Nathan has a pursued a career of inviting others into safety, healing, and growth through counseling, chaplaincy, and mentoring. He is licensed in both Illinois (Telehealth) and Tennessee (in-person and telehealth). Experienced in working with multiple varieties of trauma, addiction, grief, and life transitions.
(423) 556-4742 View (423) 556-4742
Photo of Kyle Opperman-Hill, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kyle Opperman-Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60506  (Online Only)
I have experience working with families, teens and adults with mood dysregulation, depression, ADHD, anxiety, grief, trauma, and issues with substance use.
I believe the most significant element of successful therapy is the genuine bond between the client and therapist. My approach to therapy is interactive, nonjudgmental, and empathic. I strive to create a warm and nurturing environment so you feel comfortable to communicate the challenges you face in your life. My goal is to help you better understand your relationship with your innermost self, your needs and how the patterns of your choices affect your life. If you notice signs of depression, anxiety, ADHD, or strained family relationships, we can work together to sort through it and create a more solid path forward.
I have experience working with families, teens and adults with mood dysregulation, depression, ADHD, anxiety, grief, trauma, and issues with substance use.
I believe the most significant element of successful therapy is the genuine bond between the client and therapist. My approach to therapy is interactive, nonjudgmental, and empathic. I strive to create a warm and nurturing environment so you feel comfortable to communicate the challenges you face in your life. My goal is to help you better understand your relationship with your innermost self, your needs and how the patterns of your choices affect your life. If you notice signs of depression, anxiety, ADHD, or strained family relationships, we can work together to sort through it and create a more solid path forward.
(331) 258-3389 View (331) 258-3389
Photo of Katie Andersen, LSW, CADC, CIP, CAI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Andersen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, CADC, CIP, CAI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60505
Accepting NEW Clients! I work with teens 16+, adults, and families. My passion for athletics and wellness led me to work in collegiate athletics and coaching prior to entering into the mental health and addiction field. I'm passionate about helping people and guiding them to overcome their most challenging situations and supporting them until they make their lives happier and healthier. I'm looking forward to educate individuals about anxiety, OCD, depression, PTSD and trauma, women's issues, life transitions, co-parenting, marital problems, addiction and behavioral/ addiction interventions.
Accepting NEW Clients! I work with teens 16+, adults, and families. My passion for athletics and wellness led me to work in collegiate athletics and coaching prior to entering into the mental health and addiction field. I'm passionate about helping people and guiding them to overcome their most challenging situations and supporting them until they make their lives happier and healthier. I'm looking forward to educate individuals about anxiety, OCD, depression, PTSD and trauma, women's issues, life transitions, co-parenting, marital problems, addiction and behavioral/ addiction interventions.
(630) 552-6066 View (630) 552-6066
Photo of Mercedes Laws, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mercedes Laws
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60505
I work with various issues including addiction, anxiety, depression, stress, social skills, difficulty adjusting to major life changes, family and marital issues and support.
Hello! Taking the first step and choosing a counselor to talk to when you are struggling can be overwhelming, and I am so glad you are here. I understand you may feel alone, anxious, or even a bit down but this is the first step in creating a better you! My approach is honest, relatable, and knowledgeable. As a team, we will establish goals and begin working to achieve them. We will identify your personal strengths and support you in using these strengths to overcome life's challenges. I can help you find a path to feeling better and stronger emotionally as an individual as well as in your relationships
I work with various issues including addiction, anxiety, depression, stress, social skills, difficulty adjusting to major life changes, family and marital issues and support.
Hello! Taking the first step and choosing a counselor to talk to when you are struggling can be overwhelming, and I am so glad you are here. I understand you may feel alone, anxious, or even a bit down but this is the first step in creating a better you! My approach is honest, relatable, and knowledgeable. As a team, we will establish goals and begin working to achieve them. We will identify your personal strengths and support you in using these strengths to overcome life's challenges. I can help you find a path to feeling better and stronger emotionally as an individual as well as in your relationships
(630) 229-5139 View (630) 229-5139
Photo of Laura Donavon, LCSW, CADC, CODP I, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Donavon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CODP I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60506
My practice experience covers a range of presenting concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, challenging relationship dynamics, court ordered treatment, and life transitions.
With over 25 years of social work practice experience and over 10 years as a social work educator, I consider it a privilege to be able to partner with others to identify strategies to overcome current challenges, and navigate life stressors. I have extensive experience and expansive knowledge working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and emerging professionals. Empathetic, strengths-based approaches are the core of the focus of my work.
My practice experience covers a range of presenting concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, challenging relationship dynamics, court ordered treatment, and life transitions.
With over 25 years of social work practice experience and over 10 years as a social work educator, I consider it a privilege to be able to partner with others to identify strategies to overcome current challenges, and navigate life stressors. I have extensive experience and expansive knowledge working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and emerging professionals. Empathetic, strengths-based approaches are the core of the focus of my work.
(331) 253-5726 View (331) 253-5726
Photo of Julia Guest, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Guest
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504
Julia has worked extensively with individuals and families who have experienced trauma and substance use disorders.
Taking the first step to healing is difficult especially when you are unsure where to start and how to get where you would like, making your first appointment is a great start. Are there thing's that you have experienced that feel unresolved? Julia can help you unpack these experiences, feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Julia also enjoys working with parents and children/teenagers to reconnect with one another and be that bridge of communication. Give Julia a call today for a free 15 min consultation to see if she is a good fit for you.
Julia has worked extensively with individuals and families who have experienced trauma and substance use disorders.
Taking the first step to healing is difficult especially when you are unsure where to start and how to get where you would like, making your first appointment is a great start. Are there thing's that you have experienced that feel unresolved? Julia can help you unpack these experiences, feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Julia also enjoys working with parents and children/teenagers to reconnect with one another and be that bridge of communication. Give Julia a call today for a free 15 min consultation to see if she is a good fit for you.
(630) 686-0069 View (630) 686-0069
Photo of Sharon Adams, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Sharon Adams
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
**New Clients waitlist** If you deal with Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma history, Eating Disorders, Addiction issues, Personality Disorders, Sharon is a licensed clinical therapist that has over 15 years working experience with treating adolescents and adults. Whether you are looking to explore current issues or past deep painful ones, she provides a safe, non-judgmental space to discuss/express/process difficult emotions, thoughts, behaviors and relationships. Her therapy is an eclectic approach using DBT, CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing.
**New Clients waitlist** If you deal with Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma history, Eating Disorders, Addiction issues, Personality Disorders, Sharon is a licensed clinical therapist that has over 15 years working experience with treating adolescents and adults. Whether you are looking to explore current issues or past deep painful ones, she provides a safe, non-judgmental space to discuss/express/process difficult emotions, thoughts, behaviors and relationships. Her therapy is an eclectic approach using DBT, CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing.
(630) 354-0507 View (630) 354-0507
Photo of Dr. Eleni Malamis, Psy D, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Eleni Malamis
Psychologist, Psy D, MA
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60505
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who offers professional yet warm and caring help to those struggling with life's challenges. I have devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression and anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication and relationship concerns.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who offers professional yet warm and caring help to those struggling with life's challenges. I have devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression and anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication and relationship concerns.
(331) 207-9766 View (331) 207-9766
Photo of Mary Holmes, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Holmes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504  (Online Only)
My clinical passions include trauma/PTSD psychoeducation, mindfulness techniques, anxiety reduction, motivational interviewing for addiction, and interpersonal therapy for grief and depression.
Led by compassion and curiosity, I see people, not problems. My practice style is client-led, culturally humble, trauma-informed, sex-positive, kink aware, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and social justice-oriented. I believe we live our best lives when we are seen, heard, and met with empathy, free of judgment. I work with clients to support a safe base from which to explore vulnerabilities, assess struggles, and process emotions. My clients hold the key to their own self-discovery, wellness, and balance and I am honored to walk this path with them.
My clinical passions include trauma/PTSD psychoeducation, mindfulness techniques, anxiety reduction, motivational interviewing for addiction, and interpersonal therapy for grief and depression.
Led by compassion and curiosity, I see people, not problems. My practice style is client-led, culturally humble, trauma-informed, sex-positive, kink aware, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and social justice-oriented. I believe we live our best lives when we are seen, heard, and met with empathy, free of judgment. I work with clients to support a safe base from which to explore vulnerabilities, assess struggles, and process emotions. My clients hold the key to their own self-discovery, wellness, and balance and I am honored to walk this path with them.
View
Photo of Kim Milton, MSW, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Milton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60503  (Online Only)
Client-centered is always Kim's approach during a session. This allows a client to open up at their own pace. She takes time to build rapport with her clients, which creates a space for clients to process complex feelings and emotions. A few areas of specialization for Kim are substance abuse, anxiety, and family conflict.
Client-centered is always Kim's approach during a session. This allows a client to open up at their own pace. She takes time to build rapport with her clients, which creates a space for clients to process complex feelings and emotions. A few areas of specialization for Kim are substance abuse, anxiety, and family conflict.
(847) 999-4170 View (847) 999-4170
Photo of Amber Mitchell - Connect Online Counseling, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Connect Online Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60503  (Online Only)
Moreover, she has worked in multiple settings, including outpatient, inpatient substance abuse, correctional and mental health facilities.
Amber is a passionate, qualified, and experienced therapist who practices CBT, Motivational Interviewing, DBT, and Solution Focused Therapy techniques. Her compassion drives her to deliver a safe, welcoming, and comfortable environment to the clients without judgment, promoting steady healing. During her professional career, she has worked with hundreds of clients between the ages of 4 to 70 years. She has extensive experience in providing counseling for substance abuse and mental health.
Moreover, she has worked in multiple settings, including outpatient, inpatient substance abuse, correctional and mental health facilities.
Amber is a passionate, qualified, and experienced therapist who practices CBT, Motivational Interviewing, DBT, and Solution Focused Therapy techniques. Her compassion drives her to deliver a safe, welcoming, and comfortable environment to the clients without judgment, promoting steady healing. During her professional career, she has worked with hundreds of clients between the ages of 4 to 70 years. She has extensive experience in providing counseling for substance abuse and mental health.
(331) 207-9158 View (331) 207-9158
Photo of William H Utz, MA, LCPC, Counselor
William H Utz
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60506
As a seasoned therapist, I specialize in couples counseling, relational trauma, addiction, men's issues, anxiety, life transitions, and existential concerns.
It is a sacred privilege to meet with people wherever they are in their life journey and help them move toward health and wholeness. In my practice, I work with couples, young adults, and men and women in midlife. The main issues I treat are relationship problems, anxiety, depression, and addiction.
As a seasoned therapist, I specialize in couples counseling, relational trauma, addiction, men's issues, anxiety, life transitions, and existential concerns.
It is a sacred privilege to meet with people wherever they are in their life journey and help them move toward health and wholeness. In my practice, I work with couples, young adults, and men and women in midlife. The main issues I treat are relationship problems, anxiety, depression, and addiction.
(630) 318-4920 View (630) 318-4920
Photo of Brian Rzepczynski, DHS, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brian Rzepczynski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DHS, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60505  (Online Only)
I hold certifications & additional specialized training in: relationship therapy, sex therapy, anger management, grief recovery, trauma, substance abuse, career counseling, LGBT treatment, & life coaching.
If you're looking for a therapist who is well-trained in relationships and sex, and you want to take your love-life to the next level, then look no further! I work with individuals and couples, single or partnered, on relationship issues and sexual concerns. I help men and women of all sexual orientations learn how to establish and maintain long-term, healthy, fulfilling, and thriving relationships. Whether you're looking for dating coaching, relationship enrichment, or healing a troubled partnership, my mission is to help you achieve the type of relationship you've always wanted!
I hold certifications & additional specialized training in: relationship therapy, sex therapy, anger management, grief recovery, trauma, substance abuse, career counseling, LGBT treatment, & life coaching.
If you're looking for a therapist who is well-trained in relationships and sex, and you want to take your love-life to the next level, then look no further! I work with individuals and couples, single or partnered, on relationship issues and sexual concerns. I help men and women of all sexual orientations learn how to establish and maintain long-term, healthy, fulfilling, and thriving relationships. Whether you're looking for dating coaching, relationship enrichment, or healing a troubled partnership, my mission is to help you achieve the type of relationship you've always wanted!
(630) 473-3145 View (630) 473-3145
Photo of Kaamilya Wedwick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaamilya Wedwick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504  (Online Only)
Kaamilya Wedwick is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has years of experience assisting others in acheiving their mental health goals. She specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use. Kaamilya aims to create a therapeutic space by remaining non-judgmental where her clients feel welcome to heal. Kaamilya completed her Master's degree in Social Work at the University of Missouri-Columbia. She is also certified in dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
Kaamilya Wedwick is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has years of experience assisting others in acheiving their mental health goals. She specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use. Kaamilya aims to create a therapeutic space by remaining non-judgmental where her clients feel welcome to heal. Kaamilya completed her Master's degree in Social Work at the University of Missouri-Columbia. She is also certified in dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
(630) 387-6361 View (630) 387-6361
Photo of Veleka J Avant, LSW, CADC
Veleka J Avant
Licensed Social Worker, LSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60504  (Online Only)
I have experience working with a wide variety of concerns, including, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, grief, substance use disorders, divorce, and relational challenges.
You’re likely here because life has become overwhelmingly challenging. Sure, you’re surviving (and others may look at you and think you have it all together), but inside you feel sad, angry, ashamed, stuck, and exhausted. You’ve always been the “giver” in your life, and saying “no,” feels like a luxury and beyond your reach. If you're ready to experience a healthier life, I'd like to provide you with a space to start prioritizing yourself and get the support you need to regain a sense of control and peace. Together, we can work through complex relationships, emotions, and uncertainties you're facing in a non-judgmental environment.
I have experience working with a wide variety of concerns, including, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, grief, substance use disorders, divorce, and relational challenges.
You’re likely here because life has become overwhelmingly challenging. Sure, you’re surviving (and others may look at you and think you have it all together), but inside you feel sad, angry, ashamed, stuck, and exhausted. You’ve always been the “giver” in your life, and saying “no,” feels like a luxury and beyond your reach. If you're ready to experience a healthier life, I'd like to provide you with a space to start prioritizing yourself and get the support you need to regain a sense of control and peace. Together, we can work through complex relationships, emotions, and uncertainties you're facing in a non-judgmental environment.
(773) 867-5362 View (773) 867-5362
Photo of Gary R Dec, PsyD, CSAT, CMAT, Psychologist
Gary R Dec
Psychologist, PsyD, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60506  (Online Only)
This compliments my extensive experience in the practice of cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy for anxiety disorders and ADHD, and task-focused treatment of sex addiction and other process addictions.
I have been in practice in the Chicago suburbs for years experience serving individuals from adolescence through adulthood in individual psychotherapy couples therapy. Although my practice is a general psychological practice, I maintain specialties in the areas of anxiety disorders including phobias and obsessive-compulsive disorder, addictions including process addictions and sexual addiction, and attention-deficit disorder in adolescents and adults. I am a licensed psychologist in Illinois, and hold certifications in the treatment of sexual addiction (CSAT) and multiple addictions (CMAT). For more information, please visit my website at http://www.garydecpsyd.com.
This compliments my extensive experience in the practice of cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy for anxiety disorders and ADHD, and task-focused treatment of sex addiction and other process addictions.
I have been in practice in the Chicago suburbs for years experience serving individuals from adolescence through adulthood in individual psychotherapy couples therapy. Although my practice is a general psychological practice, I maintain specialties in the areas of anxiety disorders including phobias and obsessive-compulsive disorder, addictions including process addictions and sexual addiction, and attention-deficit disorder in adolescents and adults. I am a licensed psychologist in Illinois, and hold certifications in the treatment of sexual addiction (CSAT) and multiple addictions (CMAT). For more information, please visit my website at http://www.garydecpsyd.com.
(630) 426-3436 View (630) 426-3436
1
Addiction Therapists

What is the best therapy for addiction?

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

How long does therapy for addiction take?

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

How effective is drug addiction treatment?

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

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?

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