Photo of Ashley Holcman - Kokoro Counseling, LLC, LCPC, NCC, EMDR, CMHIMP, Counselor
Kokoro Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, EMDR, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peru, IL 61354
Did you know that over a quarter of Americans seek professional counseling? If you are here, chances are you are suffering from anxiety, depression, loss, struggling with your relationships, or adjusting to life in general, and you are not alone! Seeking help in the form of therapy is the first step toward relief, happiness, and change. My name is Ashley Holcman and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and I am here to help. My goal is to create a warm, comfortable, safe environment that will allow you to feel completely at ease to discuss what is troubling you.
Did you know that over a quarter of Americans seek professional counseling? If you are here, chances are you are suffering from anxiety, depression, loss, struggling with your relationships, or adjusting to life in general, and you are not alone! Seeking help in the form of therapy is the first step toward relief, happiness, and change. My name is Ashley Holcman and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and I am here to help. My goal is to create a warm, comfortable, safe environment that will allow you to feel completely at ease to discuss what is troubling you.
(815) 998-8689 View (815) 998-8689

Online Therapists

Photo of Kellen M Smith, LSW, CADC, CODP I, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kellen M Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, CADC, CODP I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McHenry, IL 60050
My goal is to help others who struggle with substance use disorders, mental health disorders, religious trauma, human trafficking survivors, and life struggles, and to empower them to know that whatever life throws at them, they can get through the stress and come out on the other side.
My goal is to help others who struggle with substance use disorders, mental health disorders, religious trauma, human trafficking survivors, and life struggles, and to empower them to know that whatever life throws at them, they can get through the stress and come out on the other side.
(815) 420-3257 View (815) 420-3257
Photo of Bonnie Estensen - Guided Path Psychological Services, PsyD, LCPC, Counselor
Guided Path Psychological Services
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60074
"When life brings challenges that exceed your ability to cope, it might be the time to consider working with a competent, respectful, and understanding therapist. I believe in living life to the fullest extent possible, and sometimes that means peering into your past to understand how the solutions of yesterday transform to the problems of today. Whether your issue is substance abuse, unhealthy expression of anger, depression, anxiety, self esteem/body imagine or difficult relationships with others; counseling can be your first step towards a healthy way of living. Make that first step in your journey towards wellness.
"When life brings challenges that exceed your ability to cope, it might be the time to consider working with a competent, respectful, and understanding therapist. I believe in living life to the fullest extent possible, and sometimes that means peering into your past to understand how the solutions of yesterday transform to the problems of today. Whether your issue is substance abuse, unhealthy expression of anger, depression, anxiety, self esteem/body imagine or difficult relationships with others; counseling can be your first step towards a healthy way of living. Make that first step in your journey towards wellness.
(847) 243-6898 View (847) 243-6898
Photo of Shannon A Daidone, MA, LCPC
Shannon A Daidone
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
I have experience working in both inpatient, outpatient and community-based services with a variety of clients experiencing challenges including: substance use, severe mental illness, anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, self-esteem/identity issues, life transitions, grief/loss, relationship issues, and difficulties finding work life balance.
Life can be difficult and messy, but also beautiful. I believe wholeheartedly in helping others find the beauty and balance the uncertainty in their lives through a collaborative process. As your therapist, I will listen and provide support and guidance on your journey. I believe growth and change are best fostered in an environment where you feel heard, seen, respected, safe, and valued. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space where growth is cultivated to find a deeper understanding of self and ultimately evolve as you discover the power within yourself to create lasting change.
I have experience working in both inpatient, outpatient and community-based services with a variety of clients experiencing challenges including: substance use, severe mental illness, anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, self-esteem/identity issues, life transitions, grief/loss, relationship issues, and difficulties finding work life balance.
Life can be difficult and messy, but also beautiful. I believe wholeheartedly in helping others find the beauty and balance the uncertainty in their lives through a collaborative process. As your therapist, I will listen and provide support and guidance on your journey. I believe growth and change are best fostered in an environment where you feel heard, seen, respected, safe, and valued. My goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space where growth is cultivated to find a deeper understanding of self and ultimately evolve as you discover the power within yourself to create lasting change.
(872) 204-1514 View (872) 204-1514
Photo of Sharleeta (Shar) Marshall, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sharleeta (Shar) Marshall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I have experience in helping people who struggle with significant trauma, substance use or addiction, anxiety, depression, loss and mourning/grief, managing intense feelings, self-esteem, and relationship challenges.
Life experiences and the thoughts and feelings we have about them can be overwhelming to figure out and make sense of alone. I believe that the therapeutic relationship fostered with clients is a safe space where you can truly be seen, heard, and feel comfortable being your authentic self. I help clients make sense, make meaning, and manage the difficult challenges and symptoms experienced throughout your daily lives (and past). I'm LGBTQ affirming, and I practice as an integrative, intersectional-feminist relational trauma therapist who operates from an anti-racist/anti-oppressive lens.
I have experience in helping people who struggle with significant trauma, substance use or addiction, anxiety, depression, loss and mourning/grief, managing intense feelings, self-esteem, and relationship challenges.
Life experiences and the thoughts and feelings we have about them can be overwhelming to figure out and make sense of alone. I believe that the therapeutic relationship fostered with clients is a safe space where you can truly be seen, heard, and feel comfortable being your authentic self. I help clients make sense, make meaning, and manage the difficult challenges and symptoms experienced throughout your daily lives (and past). I'm LGBTQ affirming, and I practice as an integrative, intersectional-feminist relational trauma therapist who operates from an anti-racist/anti-oppressive lens.
(872) 250-4389 View (872) 250-4389
Photo of Jalinia Logan, MSW, LCSW, CCATP, LPN, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jalinia Logan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCATP, LPN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Lawn, IL 60453
I use CBT, Psychodynamic, Solution Focused, Supportive Therapy Spiritual Therapy topic: anxiety Anger Behavioral issues Crisis, Depression Divorce/separation Fear Grief Medical issues Mood disorders Personality disorders Stress Relationship issues Religious/Spiritual Substance abuse Suicidal ideations Trauma Work issues, Identification of barriers .
For the past 12 years, I enjoyed working with people seeking supportive services such as counseling and mental health referrals. While working with people in therapy, I utilize a strengths-based approach. I believe in meeting people where they are and providing educational as well as open social support with mental health needs. My goal is to help people express their thoughts/feelings and develop healthy coping mechanisms along with giving support. I work with individuals, couples, families, adolescents, and adults in counseling. I have a specialty in treating anxiety as a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP).
I use CBT, Psychodynamic, Solution Focused, Supportive Therapy Spiritual Therapy topic: anxiety Anger Behavioral issues Crisis, Depression Divorce/separation Fear Grief Medical issues Mood disorders Personality disorders Stress Relationship issues Religious/Spiritual Substance abuse Suicidal ideations Trauma Work issues, Identification of barriers .
For the past 12 years, I enjoyed working with people seeking supportive services such as counseling and mental health referrals. While working with people in therapy, I utilize a strengths-based approach. I believe in meeting people where they are and providing educational as well as open social support with mental health needs. My goal is to help people express their thoughts/feelings and develop healthy coping mechanisms along with giving support. I work with individuals, couples, families, adolescents, and adults in counseling. I have a specialty in treating anxiety as a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP).
(708) 719-4081 View (708) 719-4081
Photo of Derek Bylsma, LCPC, Counselor
Derek Bylsma
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
We have a very unique Intensive Program for Addiction and Mood Disorders.
Derek is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and respected expert in his field. He is also fully trained in EMDR Therapy. In addition to two bachelor degrees, one from Kalamazoo College and the other from University of Wisconsin-Madison, Derek also holds a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Roosevelt University. Derek has worked extensively with people suffering from all types of addictions as well as depression, anxiety and dual diagnosis. He believes in collaborating with his clients and "It all works out in the end. If it hasn't worked out, it's not the end"
We have a very unique Intensive Program for Addiction and Mood Disorders.
Derek is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and respected expert in his field. He is also fully trained in EMDR Therapy. In addition to two bachelor degrees, one from Kalamazoo College and the other from University of Wisconsin-Madison, Derek also holds a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Roosevelt University. Derek has worked extensively with people suffering from all types of addictions as well as depression, anxiety and dual diagnosis. He believes in collaborating with his clients and "It all works out in the end. If it hasn't worked out, it's not the end"
(312) 757-7509 View (312) 757-7509
Photo of Dr. Colin Ryan, PsyD, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Colin Ryan
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bloomingdale, IL 60108
I help individuals suffering from: An unnatural way of living: addiction, anxiety, mood difficulties, sleep issues, men’s issues, overall life-satisfaction struggles; Struggling with resentments: past or present; and/or Lack of structure in daily living (Life-style changes). They’re in need of: Coping skills; identifying character defects: shortcomings/mistakes/defects/faults ; or learning to stay in the present moment. Attainable goals are: Help people move from an unnatural way of living to a natural way of living, by prioritizing mental health, in daily living; Surrendering to the illusion of control; and/or Learning.
I help individuals suffering from: An unnatural way of living: addiction, anxiety, mood difficulties, sleep issues, men’s issues, overall life-satisfaction struggles; Struggling with resentments: past or present; and/or Lack of structure in daily living (Life-style changes). They’re in need of: Coping skills; identifying character defects: shortcomings/mistakes/defects/faults ; or learning to stay in the present moment. Attainable goals are: Help people move from an unnatural way of living to a natural way of living, by prioritizing mental health, in daily living; Surrendering to the illusion of control; and/or Learning.
(708) 729-6989 View (708) 729-6989
Photo of Ruth Hedvat Shorr, LCPC, Counselor
Ruth Hedvat Shorr
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60603
I'm an experienced, sensitive, insightful psychotherapist & psychoanalyst. On the faculty of The Chicago Institute for Psychoanalysis. I'm Cultural sensitive, speak English & Hebrew fluently, have a degree in Judaica. I work with Adolescents, Adults, Older Adults. I work with Gays, Lesbians, and Bisexuals. Individuals, Couples, Families. People in Business, Academia, writers, people in the Arts. Exploring who you are, Enhancing your Creativity, what complicates your Emergence, Expression, Fulfillment. Satisfaction, Individually, & in relationships.Trauma, Cross-Generational Trauma, Gender issues, Conflicts, Creativity Blocks, Performance & Achievement Anxiety, Separation, Loss, Midlife crises. Mood difficulties -- Depression, Anxiety., Attachment Difficulties. Enhancing relationships. SUPERVISION.
I'm an experienced, sensitive, insightful psychotherapist & psychoanalyst. On the faculty of The Chicago Institute for Psychoanalysis. I'm Cultural sensitive, speak English & Hebrew fluently, have a degree in Judaica. I work with Adolescents, Adults, Older Adults. I work with Gays, Lesbians, and Bisexuals. Individuals, Couples, Families. People in Business, Academia, writers, people in the Arts. Exploring who you are, Enhancing your Creativity, what complicates your Emergence, Expression, Fulfillment. Satisfaction, Individually, & in relationships.Trauma, Cross-Generational Trauma, Gender issues, Conflicts, Creativity Blocks, Performance & Achievement Anxiety, Separation, Loss, Midlife crises. Mood difficulties -- Depression, Anxiety., Attachment Difficulties. Enhancing relationships. SUPERVISION.
(312) 239-3012 View (312) 239-3012
Photo of Donald Price, LCPC
Donald Price
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I discovered my passion to make a difference in others’ lives when I began my career in Behavioral Health over 20 years ago. I am privileged to meet people and together we find the solutions to whatever life problems come into our lives. I have been consistently told by clients that they feel safe and comfortable talking about whatever brings them in and that they feel better when they leave a session. It’s my goal to provide you the ability to leave a session with more than you came with as part of the process of change and healing.
I discovered my passion to make a difference in others’ lives when I began my career in Behavioral Health over 20 years ago. I am privileged to meet people and together we find the solutions to whatever life problems come into our lives. I have been consistently told by clients that they feel safe and comfortable talking about whatever brings them in and that they feel better when they leave a session. It’s my goal to provide you the ability to leave a session with more than you came with as part of the process of change and healing.
(331) 204-1896 View (331) 204-1896
Photo of Cindy Lynn Esposito, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cindy Lynn Esposito
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McHenry, IL 60050
All of my clients are the best! They come to see me with all types of issues and I enjoy treating each client as an individual. I treat many different types of clients with mutual respect and empathy. I feel blessed to be with clients on their journey whatever that may be.
All of my clients are the best! They come to see me with all types of issues and I enjoy treating each client as an individual. I treat many different types of clients with mutual respect and empathy. I feel blessed to be with clients on their journey whatever that may be.
(815) 368-4137 View (815) 368-4137
Photo of Sophia Shlain - 360 Degrees Wellness and Coaching, LCSW, LCPC, MSW, CRADC, CADC, Counselor
360 Degrees Wellness and Coaching
Counselor, LCSW, LCPC, MSW, CRADC, CADC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
We are a group of board certified psychotherapists and executive coaches specializing in behavioral health. Our highly experienced staff averages more than 18 years experience in their respective fields: Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Solution- Focused, Collaborative and Health-Oriented Therapies. We can help you with: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Low self-esteem, Postpartum depression, Martial or family issues, School problems, Parenting issues, Chronic pain, Grief, Trauma and managing negative feelings.
We are a group of board certified psychotherapists and executive coaches specializing in behavioral health. Our highly experienced staff averages more than 18 years experience in their respective fields: Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Solution- Focused, Collaborative and Health-Oriented Therapies. We can help you with: Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Low self-esteem, Postpartum depression, Martial or family issues, School problems, Parenting issues, Chronic pain, Grief, Trauma and managing negative feelings.
(847) 807-1012 View (847) 807-1012
Photo of Teletherapy Emdr Offered Rosy Tyree, MAAT, ATR, LCPC, EMDR
Teletherapy Emdr Offered Rosy Tyree
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MAAT, ATR, LCPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
Waitlist for new clients
Are you tired of feeling anxious and depressed? Do you have intrusive and/or brooding thoughts that may be connected to an old memory or issue that is hard to quiet? Are you tired of feeling miserable and would like to learn tangible and useful techniques that will help take the edge and, in some instances, eliminate these thoughts and feelings? If you are ready to make that change, are open minded to learning non-traditional therapeutic methods, then please reach out to me and we’ll get started! As of now, I am taking new clients with convenient Saturday and Sunday hours. I am providing teletherapy / Skype services.
Are you tired of feeling anxious and depressed? Do you have intrusive and/or brooding thoughts that may be connected to an old memory or issue that is hard to quiet? Are you tired of feeling miserable and would like to learn tangible and useful techniques that will help take the edge and, in some instances, eliminate these thoughts and feelings? If you are ready to make that change, are open minded to learning non-traditional therapeutic methods, then please reach out to me and we’ll get started! As of now, I am taking new clients with convenient Saturday and Sunday hours. I am providing teletherapy / Skype services.
(872) 266-7949 View (872) 266-7949
Photo of For More Information - Advanced Behavioral Solutions, LLC, Counselor
Advanced Behavioral Solutions, LLC
Counselor
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Advanced Behavioral Solutions, LLC is a comprehensive psychological practice that provides a variety of services for children, adolescents, adults, and families. We offer individual, couples, and family therapy due to anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, and many other psychological problems that occur throughout the lifespan. We also provide psychotherapeutic social skills groups to teach pro-social skill development and symptom management while also providing parents with educational information to assist their children, teens, and young adults.
Advanced Behavioral Solutions, LLC is a comprehensive psychological practice that provides a variety of services for children, adolescents, adults, and families. We offer individual, couples, and family therapy due to anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, and many other psychological problems that occur throughout the lifespan. We also provide psychotherapeutic social skills groups to teach pro-social skill development and symptom management while also providing parents with educational information to assist their children, teens, and young adults.
(847) 496-4693 View (847) 496-4693
Photo of Jeff Bondora And Jessica Zaucha - BZA Behavioral Health - Schaumburg office, LCSW, MEd, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
BZA Behavioral Health - Schaumburg office
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60173
BZA Behavioral Health is an inclusive, highly specialized group of clinicians dedicated to the emotional and behavioral wellness of the individuals and families we treat. We value the diversity & unique experiences of each person & it is our mission to have comprehensive & individualized types of treatment options to best match those personal needs. Services we offer include (but are not limited to) neuropsychological/psychological assessment, psychiatry, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, & art therapy. We work with clients of all ages to utilizing strength to cope with life's challenges.
BZA Behavioral Health is an inclusive, highly specialized group of clinicians dedicated to the emotional and behavioral wellness of the individuals and families we treat. We value the diversity & unique experiences of each person & it is our mission to have comprehensive & individualized types of treatment options to best match those personal needs. Services we offer include (but are not limited to) neuropsychological/psychological assessment, psychiatry, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, & art therapy. We work with clients of all ages to utilizing strength to cope with life's challenges.
(224) 505-8631 View (224) 505-8631
Photo of Tyler Fortman, PhD, Psychologist
Tyler Fortman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Dr. Fortman serves as clinical faculty at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine and in full-time private practice. A former member of the Sexual Orientation and Gender Institute (SOGI) and staff psychologist at the Center on Halsted, he continues to provide supervision to graduate students. He trained at The Ohio State University, University of Virginia, and Sarah Lawrence College and has worked onsite at Google and Uber. Dr. Fortman is experienced in helping people who are struggling with relationship difficulties, anxiety & depression, low self esteem, LGBT related issues, grief, abuse & neglect, and trauma.
Dr. Fortman serves as clinical faculty at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine and in full-time private practice. A former member of the Sexual Orientation and Gender Institute (SOGI) and staff psychologist at the Center on Halsted, he continues to provide supervision to graduate students. He trained at The Ohio State University, University of Virginia, and Sarah Lawrence College and has worked onsite at Google and Uber. Dr. Fortman is experienced in helping people who are struggling with relationship difficulties, anxiety & depression, low self esteem, LGBT related issues, grief, abuse & neglect, and trauma.
(312) 828-9420 View (312) 828-9420
Photo of Victoriya Tsaran, PsyD, LPC, Psychologist
Victoriya Tsaran
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Over the years, I have developed an eclectic perspective to therapy and utilize a unique combination of psychotherapy, mind-body awareness and hypnotic relaxation techniques, family systems therapy, emotion focused therapy and cognitive behavioral techniques. My wide range of knowledge and competency in various psychological theories allows me to be flexible in my treatment. I aim to revive my patients from the current positions in their lives and help bring in the much needed harmony and infused positivity that will allow my clients to progress in their minds, their mental health and their overall life.
Over the years, I have developed an eclectic perspective to therapy and utilize a unique combination of psychotherapy, mind-body awareness and hypnotic relaxation techniques, family systems therapy, emotion focused therapy and cognitive behavioral techniques. My wide range of knowledge and competency in various psychological theories allows me to be flexible in my treatment. I aim to revive my patients from the current positions in their lives and help bring in the much needed harmony and infused positivity that will allow my clients to progress in their minds, their mental health and their overall life.
(847) 786-2098 View (847) 786-2098
Photo of Shira Behal, MA, LPC, Counselor
Shira Behal
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60074  (Online Only)
Shira Behal is a therapist with experience, who knows how to weave different approaches together to find the right one for you. Shira is someone who listens, and also educates and guides. Someone to help you reach your goals and grow into a life that matches your values. Someone ready to do the deep work, and stay with you through the long work. Shira is a therapist who knows that healing takes a balance between the intellect, the emotional mind, and the body.
Shira Behal is a therapist with experience, who knows how to weave different approaches together to find the right one for you. Shira is someone who listens, and also educates and guides. Someone to help you reach your goals and grow into a life that matches your values. Someone ready to do the deep work, and stay with you through the long work. Shira is a therapist who knows that healing takes a balance between the intellect, the emotional mind, and the body.
(224) 263-0959 View (224) 263-0959
Photo of Polly M Vaughn - Institute for Social and Emotional Learning, EdD, CADC, LCPC, Counselor
Institute for Social and Emotional Learning
Counselor, EdD, CADC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor. I work with all ages. I work with men, women, children and adolescents. My work is based on Gestalt Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing and Play Therapy. My interest includes helping others achieve their dreams through learning to develop their Social and Emotional Intelligence. Sometimes, in life obstacles get in the way of a person being able to achieve their dreams and they often need help learning to better use their emotions and their social environments. Because, dreams comes from change and change comes from dreams.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor. I work with all ages. I work with men, women, children and adolescents. My work is based on Gestalt Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing and Play Therapy. My interest includes helping others achieve their dreams through learning to develop their Social and Emotional Intelligence. Sometimes, in life obstacles get in the way of a person being able to achieve their dreams and they often need help learning to better use their emotions and their social environments. Because, dreams comes from change and change comes from dreams.
(815) 768-3134 View (815) 768-3134
Photo of Lia Schillinger, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Lia Schillinger
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Kankakee, IL 60901
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience providing treatment to a wide range of ages, backgrounds, and intellectual abilities. I have a Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology and a Master of Arts in Counseling from Olivet Nazarene University. I have worked extensively with adults and adolescents with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience providing treatment to a wide range of ages, backgrounds, and intellectual abilities. I have a Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology and a Master of Arts in Counseling from Olivet Nazarene University. I have worked extensively with adults and adolescents with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and trauma.
(779) 237-1811 View (779) 237-1811

See more therapy options for La Salle County

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.