Addiction Therapists in Highland Park, IL

Photo of Joshua Annex, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joshua Annex
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
I also treat process addictions including eating, gambling and sex addiction.
Challenges can overwhelm our ability to cope. My objective, as a certified psychotherapist, is to assist in managing these issues safely, in a stress- free environment. Treatment is tailored towards the individual's needs. My job is to support you through the process of change in order to feel greater security and self-esteem. I use psychodynamic, relational and CBT approaches. I specialize in mood issues - anxiety, depression and chronic feelings of isolation being among the most common. I am a certified drug and alcohol counselor and have spent years helping clients grappling with substance abuse.
I also treat process addictions including eating, gambling and sex addiction.
Challenges can overwhelm our ability to cope. My objective, as a certified psychotherapist, is to assist in managing these issues safely, in a stress- free environment. Treatment is tailored towards the individual's needs. My job is to support you through the process of change in order to feel greater security and self-esteem. I use psychodynamic, relational and CBT approaches. I specialize in mood issues - anxiety, depression and chronic feelings of isolation being among the most common. I am a certified drug and alcohol counselor and have spent years helping clients grappling with substance abuse.
(224) 214-5119 View (224) 214-5119
Photo of Kari Fitzgerald, LCPC, NCC, ERYT, Counselor
Kari Fitzgerald
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, ERYT
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035  (Online Only)
From late-adolescents to aging adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, trauma and substance use disorders, we will partner together to find the best course of treatment on your terms. It is important to me that we build trust and cohesively create your treatment plan on a timeline that feels right for your needs. Building trust in our relationship is incredibly important & authenticity is key. Getting to know you and your history takes some time. But we will address what brought you into therapy & find you some relief right away as we begin your healing process.
From late-adolescents to aging adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, trauma and substance use disorders, we will partner together to find the best course of treatment on your terms. It is important to me that we build trust and cohesively create your treatment plan on a timeline that feels right for your needs. Building trust in our relationship is incredibly important & authenticity is key. Getting to know you and your history takes some time. But we will address what brought you into therapy & find you some relief right away as we begin your healing process.
(779) 242-2771 View (779) 242-2771
Photo of Noah Gelfman, MEd, LCPC
Noah Gelfman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life and all of its moving parts? Are your emotions weighing you down and keeping you from reaching your full potential? I am here to be the support you need to make long lasting change. Together, we can make sense of your struggles and put the past to rest, so you can take charge over the rest of your life. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and substance use related issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life and all of its moving parts? Are your emotions weighing you down and keeping you from reaching your full potential? I am here to be the support you need to make long lasting change. Together, we can make sense of your struggles and put the past to rest, so you can take charge over the rest of your life. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and substance use related issues.
(847) 416-8319 View (847) 416-8319
Photo of Eileen Harte, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eileen Harte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
I have been privileged to guide people through complex medical situations, terminal illnesses, chronic illness, trauma and addiction.
This is all about you! I believe we are born with exactly what we need to be successful in this life, it’s just a matter of being willing to do the deep dive. I am passionate about helping people recognize and embrace their strength and hope. Seeking guidance and support on any leg of life’s journey takes courage, a commitment to truth, and an openness to vulnerability. One of my favorite quotes is from Brene Brown, Ph.D., “Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change.” Compassion, humor, and vulnerability create a superpower that builds a foundation for lasting change.
I have been privileged to guide people through complex medical situations, terminal illnesses, chronic illness, trauma and addiction.
This is all about you! I believe we are born with exactly what we need to be successful in this life, it’s just a matter of being willing to do the deep dive. I am passionate about helping people recognize and embrace their strength and hope. Seeking guidance and support on any leg of life’s journey takes courage, a commitment to truth, and an openness to vulnerability. One of my favorite quotes is from Brene Brown, Ph.D., “Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change.” Compassion, humor, and vulnerability create a superpower that builds a foundation for lasting change.
(224) 218-5383 View (224) 218-5383
Photo of Leigh C Rzepecki - Leigh Rzepecki, LCSW, CADC, PLLC, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leigh Rzepecki, LCSW, CADC, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
In addition to my passion of healing from diet-culture, disordered eating patterns, and substance abuse, I’ve worked as an antepartum and postpartum social worker.
There are so many individuals and families that I enjoy working with. What I am most passionate about is working with individuals struggling to find peace with his/her/their body, food, and self-worth. This topic has been the focus of my training and professional life for nearly a decade. Working in higher levels of care has provided extensive training with emphasis on disordered eating and mood and anxiety diagnoses, as well as substance abuse. This training has helped to address patterns that often appear in family milieus and where shame often perpetuates the cycle of maladaptive behaviors.
In addition to my passion of healing from diet-culture, disordered eating patterns, and substance abuse, I’ve worked as an antepartum and postpartum social worker.
There are so many individuals and families that I enjoy working with. What I am most passionate about is working with individuals struggling to find peace with his/her/their body, food, and self-worth. This topic has been the focus of my training and professional life for nearly a decade. Working in higher levels of care has provided extensive training with emphasis on disordered eating and mood and anxiety diagnoses, as well as substance abuse. This training has helped to address patterns that often appear in family milieus and where shame often perpetuates the cycle of maladaptive behaviors.
(224) 218-5322 View (224) 218-5322
Photo of Jean Rock, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Jean Rock
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
My specialties include Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Addiction, LGBTQIA+, Grief, Loss, Relationship Issues, Trauma, and Eating Related Concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with strong clinical training and years of experience in private practice, high school and community mental health settings. I obtained a Master's in Counseling and Psychotherapy from the Institute for Clinical Social Work. In addition, I received certification as a Grief Support Specialist from the University of Wisconsin. My main objective is to support you in gaining a deeper understanding of your emotional challenges, while at the same time, empowering you to make healthy and desired changes.
My specialties include Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Addiction, LGBTQIA+, Grief, Loss, Relationship Issues, Trauma, and Eating Related Concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with strong clinical training and years of experience in private practice, high school and community mental health settings. I obtained a Master's in Counseling and Psychotherapy from the Institute for Clinical Social Work. In addition, I received certification as a Grief Support Specialist from the University of Wisconsin. My main objective is to support you in gaining a deeper understanding of your emotional challenges, while at the same time, empowering you to make healthy and desired changes.
(847) 321-7325 View (847) 321-7325
Photo of Piper M Benjamin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Piper M Benjamin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
I specialize in Addiction, Anxiety, Equestrian-related Concerns, and Women’s health.
I am a licensed clinical social worker dedicated to helping individuals overcome challenges and discover their strengths. With a warm and empathetic approach, I create a safe space for clients to explore their vulnerabilities and embark on their journey to healing. From there, we create healthy coping skills and encourage emotional regulation to improve overall wellbeing.
I specialize in Addiction, Anxiety, Equestrian-related Concerns, and Women’s health.
I am a licensed clinical social worker dedicated to helping individuals overcome challenges and discover their strengths. With a warm and empathetic approach, I create a safe space for clients to explore their vulnerabilities and embark on their journey to healing. From there, we create healthy coping skills and encourage emotional regulation to improve overall wellbeing.
(224) 258-0592 View (224) 258-0592
Photo of Serge Sorokin, PsyD, Psychologist
Serge Sorokin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
Dr. Sorokin effectively treats depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and substance abuse by successfully combining hypnosis and psychotherapy. He also specializes in relationship problems, anger management, OCD, domestic abuse, sleep issues and PTSD. If you feel stock in life and powerless to change things, if you feel fatigue and constantly worry it's time to start changing your life. Dr. Sorokin utilizes his innovative approach to create a long-lasting improvement in your emotional and physical condition and achieve a successful, balanced life. He effectively utilizes holistic approach to help you recognize an important unity of human body, mind and spirit.
Dr. Sorokin effectively treats depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and substance abuse by successfully combining hypnosis and psychotherapy. He also specializes in relationship problems, anger management, OCD, domestic abuse, sleep issues and PTSD. If you feel stock in life and powerless to change things, if you feel fatigue and constantly worry it's time to start changing your life. Dr. Sorokin utilizes his innovative approach to create a long-lasting improvement in your emotional and physical condition and achieve a successful, balanced life. He effectively utilizes holistic approach to help you recognize an important unity of human body, mind and spirit.
(847) 607-6525 View (847) 607-6525
Photo of Jarrett Langfitt, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jarrett Langfitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035  (Online Only)
Whether you are struggling with depression, worry, work-related stress, substance use, relationship difficulties, or emotions resulting from traumatic experience(s), I offer a supportive ear and a nonjudgmental environment in which we can work together to identify and implement strategies to move you toward your goals. I strive to assist clients in fully exploring their emotions in an environment characterized by compassion, acceptance, and safety.
Whether you are struggling with depression, worry, work-related stress, substance use, relationship difficulties, or emotions resulting from traumatic experience(s), I offer a supportive ear and a nonjudgmental environment in which we can work together to identify and implement strategies to move you toward your goals. I strive to assist clients in fully exploring their emotions in an environment characterized by compassion, acceptance, and safety.
(847) 565-1323 View (847) 565-1323
Photo of Victor Spatafora Psy. D., PsyD, Psychologist
Victor Spatafora Psy. D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
My counseling approach emphasizes how all individuals have the capabilities to live life authentically and with reduced stress. My goal is to help you utilize your strengths to achieve positive self-change and growth through the many transitions in life. I provide counseling for adults, couples, and older adults experiencing depression, low self esteem, anxiety, parental difficulties, relationship problems, substance abuse, anger, and stress related symptoms. I have training in teaching relaxation techniques and anger management skills including deep breathing and systematic desensitization.
My counseling approach emphasizes how all individuals have the capabilities to live life authentically and with reduced stress. My goal is to help you utilize your strengths to achieve positive self-change and growth through the many transitions in life. I provide counseling for adults, couples, and older adults experiencing depression, low self esteem, anxiety, parental difficulties, relationship problems, substance abuse, anger, and stress related symptoms. I have training in teaching relaxation techniques and anger management skills including deep breathing and systematic desensitization.
(773) 717-2945 View (773) 717-2945
Photo of Pam Meyerson, LCSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pam Meyerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
As an experienced therapist I have witnessed many clients overcome issues with relationships, infidelity, addiction and chronic pain.
You present yourself as having things all figured out when deep down inside you are feeling lost and vulnerable. You are scared because you have lived this way for so long and have never experienced more than temporary relief from it. Perhaps you have not been able to share how you really feel with friends or loved ones. Deep down inside you are exhausted and are ready to feel differently. You are ready to be vulnerable and live life differently with hope and passion. (I am licensed to practice in Illinois, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Florida and Washington State.)
As an experienced therapist I have witnessed many clients overcome issues with relationships, infidelity, addiction and chronic pain.
You present yourself as having things all figured out when deep down inside you are feeling lost and vulnerable. You are scared because you have lived this way for so long and have never experienced more than temporary relief from it. Perhaps you have not been able to share how you really feel with friends or loved ones. Deep down inside you are exhausted and are ready to feel differently. You are ready to be vulnerable and live life differently with hope and passion. (I am licensed to practice in Illinois, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Florida and Washington State.)
(561) 816-3122 View (561) 816-3122
Photo of Lisa Mutterperl, LMFT, LASAC, CAADC, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Mutterperl
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LASAC, CAADC, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
First, it is to be acknowledged that you have taken a BIG step in reaching out! Be proud of yourself as this is NOT as easy as it sounds. If you feel stuck or are struggling with how to respond to life's challenges and are ready to create positive change, I can help in navigating you towards identified goals. My expertise lies in addressing complex trauma, depression, anxiety and substance use for ages 14 and up. You are not alone and you do not have to do this alone. Please take one more step and contact me to begin your journey to well being.
First, it is to be acknowledged that you have taken a BIG step in reaching out! Be proud of yourself as this is NOT as easy as it sounds. If you feel stuck or are struggling with how to respond to life's challenges and are ready to create positive change, I can help in navigating you towards identified goals. My expertise lies in addressing complex trauma, depression, anxiety and substance use for ages 14 and up. You are not alone and you do not have to do this alone. Please take one more step and contact me to begin your journey to well being.
(623) 304-9712 View (623) 304-9712
Photo of Elissa Geier, PsyD, Psychologist
Elissa Geier
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
I work with individuals with relationship and family problems, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, emotional abuse, social, career and academic stress, life transitions, self-harm, low self-esteem, eating disorders and addiction.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working in private practice since 1998 and the co-founder of Lakeshore Psychology Group (click website). I provide individual psychotherapy to adults, adolescents, as well as treatment, for couples. I am very active in the therapy relationship and work to help clients uncover patterns, which become barriers to healthy relationships, career goals and personal happiness by learning more effective ways of coping and gaining greater insight into their problems. My clients describe me as accessible, authentic, empathic and supportive. My therapeutic approach is tailored to fit the unique needs and desires of each client
I work with individuals with relationship and family problems, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, emotional abuse, social, career and academic stress, life transitions, self-harm, low self-esteem, eating disorders and addiction.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working in private practice since 1998 and the co-founder of Lakeshore Psychology Group (click website). I provide individual psychotherapy to adults, adolescents, as well as treatment, for couples. I am very active in the therapy relationship and work to help clients uncover patterns, which become barriers to healthy relationships, career goals and personal happiness by learning more effective ways of coping and gaining greater insight into their problems. My clients describe me as accessible, authentic, empathic and supportive. My therapeutic approach is tailored to fit the unique needs and desires of each client
(847) 380-8665 View (847) 380-8665
Photo of Diane Copeland, PsyD, Psychologist
Diane Copeland
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035  (Online Only)
As an experienced clinical-health psychologist, I specialize in helping people navigate life transitions (divorce, remarriage, parenting, relationships, work, health), manage food and weight issues (binge/emotional eating, weight management, weight-loss surgery), deal with addictions of all kinds (substance use, co-dependency, recovery, internet, shopping), develop healthier ways to manage stress and illness, and to deal with anxiety and depression. My approach to therapy is collaborative, interactive, and tailored to your unique needs and goals.
As an experienced clinical-health psychologist, I specialize in helping people navigate life transitions (divorce, remarriage, parenting, relationships, work, health), manage food and weight issues (binge/emotional eating, weight management, weight-loss surgery), deal with addictions of all kinds (substance use, co-dependency, recovery, internet, shopping), develop healthier ways to manage stress and illness, and to deal with anxiety and depression. My approach to therapy is collaborative, interactive, and tailored to your unique needs and goals.
(847) 512-8399 View (847) 512-8399
Photo of Lindsay McDonnell, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Lindsay McDonnell
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
I have extensive experience working with alcohol/other substance abuse, generalized and social anxiety, depression, chronic stress, relationship issues, and adjustment disorders.
We all experience emotional, physical, and psychological difficulties in our lives. If we cannot find relief, or achieve change on our own, professional help is appropriate. My approach to therapy is insight-oriented, with an emphasis on exploring patterns in clients' belief systems, emotional experiences, and behaviors. My ideal clients are those that desire to truthfully investigate themselves. With a further understanding of yourself, you inevitably increase your opportunities for growth and positive change. I offer assistance in beginning and continuing this process.
I have extensive experience working with alcohol/other substance abuse, generalized and social anxiety, depression, chronic stress, relationship issues, and adjustment disorders.
We all experience emotional, physical, and psychological difficulties in our lives. If we cannot find relief, or achieve change on our own, professional help is appropriate. My approach to therapy is insight-oriented, with an emphasis on exploring patterns in clients' belief systems, emotional experiences, and behaviors. My ideal clients are those that desire to truthfully investigate themselves. With a further understanding of yourself, you inevitably increase your opportunities for growth and positive change. I offer assistance in beginning and continuing this process.
(224) 298-7797 View (224) 298-7797
Photo of Lara Garwood Martin - 360 Therapy, LCPC, IEC, PEL
360 Therapy
LCPC, IEC, PEL
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
360 therapy is a group of expert therapists focused on helping you manage and overcome the challenges in your life. As our name suggests, we take a holistic approach, looking at how social, biological and psychological factors influence emotional well being. 360 Therapy offers men's, women's, couple's, family and group counseling. Our clinician team has many year's experience in a wide range of issues, from Addiction, ADHD and Anxiety, to Depression, Eating Disorder and Trauma. We accept several major insurance plans, and we have a sliding scale fee program if needed.
360 therapy is a group of expert therapists focused on helping you manage and overcome the challenges in your life. As our name suggests, we take a holistic approach, looking at how social, biological and psychological factors influence emotional well being. 360 Therapy offers men's, women's, couple's, family and group counseling. Our clinician team has many year's experience in a wide range of issues, from Addiction, ADHD and Anxiety, to Depression, Eating Disorder and Trauma. We accept several major insurance plans, and we have a sliding scale fee program if needed.
(847) 562-5202 View (847) 562-5202
Photo of Edward Patzelt, PhD, Psychologist
Edward Patzelt
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035  (Online Only)
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of personality disorders, anxiety, addiction, depression, trauma, PTSD and relationship issues.
The people I work with sense a shift could be important. Their relationships seem to have a lot of ups and downs, they feel like they cannot control their emotions, and they sometimes experience unwanted mood swings. Specialized evidence-based treatment can generate a shift. They feel more centered in themselves, are less likely to be taken over by emotions, and can more quickly recover from intense feelings. Their relationships with themselves, and with others, improves. They gain a stronger sense of purpose, increased ability to communicate, more often avoid misunderstandings, and can resolve conflicts more quickly.
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of personality disorders, anxiety, addiction, depression, trauma, PTSD and relationship issues.
The people I work with sense a shift could be important. Their relationships seem to have a lot of ups and downs, they feel like they cannot control their emotions, and they sometimes experience unwanted mood swings. Specialized evidence-based treatment can generate a shift. They feel more centered in themselves, are less likely to be taken over by emotions, and can more quickly recover from intense feelings. Their relationships with themselves, and with others, improves. They gain a stronger sense of purpose, increased ability to communicate, more often avoid misunderstandings, and can resolve conflicts more quickly.
(773) 232-6984 View (773) 232-6984
Photo of Lauren Madden, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Lauren Madden
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035
Utilizing a variety of approaches and styles, my passion is helping individuals and systems overcome life changes, stressors, and figuring out the “why”. I have experience supporting those of all ages with depression, anxiety, executive functioning issues, career development, and most recently, I spent 2 years leading facilities catered to those struggling with the disease of addiction. Discomfort comes from incongruence within yourself - between what is present and what you’d like to be. You are the expert on your life, and together we can make sure you are on the path to being the best version of you possible!
Utilizing a variety of approaches and styles, my passion is helping individuals and systems overcome life changes, stressors, and figuring out the “why”. I have experience supporting those of all ages with depression, anxiety, executive functioning issues, career development, and most recently, I spent 2 years leading facilities catered to those struggling with the disease of addiction. Discomfort comes from incongruence within yourself - between what is present and what you’d like to be. You are the expert on your life, and together we can make sure you are on the path to being the best version of you possible!
(224) 218-5091 View (224) 218-5091
Photo of Lisa Benedetto - Here & Now Mental Wellness, NCMHC, LCPC
Here & Now Mental Wellness
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, NCMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, IL 60035
At Here & Now our goal is to help each client discover the joy of feeling comfortable in their skin and knowing their purpose in life. Our clinical specialists thoughtfully and compassionately tailor a wellness hub of solutions to each client’s unique needs. Our Wellness Hub of professionals incorporates evidence-based practices. Everyone's Hub at Here & Now is unique; it may involve Psychiatry, Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, Talk therapy, Neurobiofeedback/brain training, EMDR, Art therapy, VR exposure therapy, Movement, Breath, Trauma Release and Somatic work. We also offer support for overcoming substance abuse issues.
At Here & Now our goal is to help each client discover the joy of feeling comfortable in their skin and knowing their purpose in life. Our clinical specialists thoughtfully and compassionately tailor a wellness hub of solutions to each client’s unique needs. Our Wellness Hub of professionals incorporates evidence-based practices. Everyone's Hub at Here & Now is unique; it may involve Psychiatry, Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, Talk therapy, Neurobiofeedback/brain training, EMDR, Art therapy, VR exposure therapy, Movement, Breath, Trauma Release and Somatic work. We also offer support for overcoming substance abuse issues.
(847) 396-9541 View (847) 396-9541
Photo of Dr. Eleni Malamis, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Eleni Malamis
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Highland Park, IL 60035  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. I provide warm and caring support to those struggling with life's challenges. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has devoted my clinical work to assisting adult individuals with a broad spectrum of concerns. I provide warm and caring support to those struggling with life's challenges. Specifically, I enjoy working with individuals in the following areas: depression, anxiety, substance abuse, life transitions, low self-esteem, communication, and relationship concerns.
(224) 243-8095 View (224) 243-8095
1

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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.