Addiction Therapists in Arlington, MA

Photo of Emily E Manove, PhD, Psychologist
Emily E Manove
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02476
I welcome your courage in sharing your challenges with me and believe that we can work together using evidence-based therapy to create change. Our relationship matters to me and I will check in with you frequently about our work. I bring respect, empathy, humor, and authenticity (I'm a real person!) to the therapy room. I often work with OCD, anxiety, substance use, shame, perfectionism, body image, eating issues, depression, trauma/PTSD, relationship issues and parenting. I am an experienced IFS and AEDP therapist. I also use mindfulness, ACT, CBT and DBT heavily in my practice. I am a certified and experienced couples' therapist.
I welcome your courage in sharing your challenges with me and believe that we can work together using evidence-based therapy to create change. Our relationship matters to me and I will check in with you frequently about our work. I bring respect, empathy, humor, and authenticity (I'm a real person!) to the therapy room. I often work with OCD, anxiety, substance use, shame, perfectionism, body image, eating issues, depression, trauma/PTSD, relationship issues and parenting. I am an experienced IFS and AEDP therapist. I also use mindfulness, ACT, CBT and DBT heavily in my practice. I am a certified and experienced couples' therapist.
(339) 233-4578 View (339) 233-4578
Photo of Emily Schneider, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Schneider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474  (Online Only)
I work with adolescents, adults, and older adults, and my interests include addiction, stress, anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship concerns.
Life can be challenging and asking for help takes courage. Engaging in therapy can lead to many benefits such as better communication skills, improved relationships, increased self-esteem, relief from many mental health conditions, and the ability to manage stress. Everyone’s journey is different, and this is why I use a patient-centered approach where we will work together to create an individualized plan that promotes your goals and needs.
I work with adolescents, adults, and older adults, and my interests include addiction, stress, anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship concerns.
Life can be challenging and asking for help takes courage. Engaging in therapy can lead to many benefits such as better communication skills, improved relationships, increased self-esteem, relief from many mental health conditions, and the ability to manage stress. Everyone’s journey is different, and this is why I use a patient-centered approach where we will work together to create an individualized plan that promotes your goals and needs.
(617) 579-8301 View (617) 579-8301
Photo of Carmen Dominguez - Carmen Dominguez, LMHC
Carmen Dominguez
LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02474
Who are you really? This is a question I ask my clients. I have been a psychotherapist and consultant for over 30 years. I draw on my innate intuitive abilities as well as my traditional clinical training to bring healing and transformation to my clients. My family systems background allows me to see the individual as a multifaceted system. What we perceive as a “problem” often reflects how we have adapted to the stress and trauma that we may have endured. Our perceived problems, such as addiction to substances, and other self- defeating patterns become encoded within our whole system, and ultimately distort our true essence.
Who are you really? This is a question I ask my clients. I have been a psychotherapist and consultant for over 30 years. I draw on my innate intuitive abilities as well as my traditional clinical training to bring healing and transformation to my clients. My family systems background allows me to see the individual as a multifaceted system. What we perceive as a “problem” often reflects how we have adapted to the stress and trauma that we may have endured. Our perceived problems, such as addiction to substances, and other self- defeating patterns become encoded within our whole system, and ultimately distort our true essence.
(339) 218-3561 View (339) 218-3561
Photo of Chuck Weinstein, LMHC, CPRP, CPS, Counselor
Chuck Weinstein
Counselor, LMHC, CPRP, CPS
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
Waitlist for new clients
I understand on a deep level what it can be like to live with and overcome mental health challenges and to be impacted by and overcome an addiction; this experience enriches my empathy and informs my clinical practice and ability to connect and understand more fully with you.
While I am currently at capacity with clients, there are times when openings become available. Drawing from over three decades of experience in mental health, addiction counseling, and psychiatric rehabilitation, I offer specialized, personalized approaches for both individuals and couples. In couples counseling, our focus is on enhancing communication and fostering skills to reignite connections and reopen hearts. I approach our work with utmost respect, collaboration, and a deep appreciation for your unique journey. You are the expert in your own experience, I provide unwavering support, strategies and realistic optimism.
I understand on a deep level what it can be like to live with and overcome mental health challenges and to be impacted by and overcome an addiction; this experience enriches my empathy and informs my clinical practice and ability to connect and understand more fully with you.
While I am currently at capacity with clients, there are times when openings become available. Drawing from over three decades of experience in mental health, addiction counseling, and psychiatric rehabilitation, I offer specialized, personalized approaches for both individuals and couples. In couples counseling, our focus is on enhancing communication and fostering skills to reignite connections and reopen hearts. I approach our work with utmost respect, collaboration, and a deep appreciation for your unique journey. You are the expert in your own experience, I provide unwavering support, strategies and realistic optimism.
(339) 217-8830 View (339) 217-8830
Photo of Anya Mack, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anya Mack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
My ideal client would be someone who is seeking growth and change. Their issues may be family relationships, substance use disorders, employment, unmanageable symptoms of mental health, or a history of trauma that impacts their daily lives. Their needs may vary based on the challenges they exhibit. Some Patients don't have goals when they engage in therapy. I am skilled at goal development. My ideal client is someone who is genuinely seeking help and ready to accept ideas and recommendations and set and achieve realistic goals. I am not intimidated by problems others think are impossible.
My ideal client would be someone who is seeking growth and change. Their issues may be family relationships, substance use disorders, employment, unmanageable symptoms of mental health, or a history of trauma that impacts their daily lives. Their needs may vary based on the challenges they exhibit. Some Patients don't have goals when they engage in therapy. I am skilled at goal development. My ideal client is someone who is genuinely seeking help and ready to accept ideas and recommendations and set and achieve realistic goals. I am not intimidated by problems others think are impossible.
(339) 217-6849 View (339) 217-6849
Photo of Lucia Ciccarello, LMHC, Counselor
Lucia Ciccarello
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
My ideal client would be someone who has not had much success with counseling in the past but is very motivated to participate. I would love to work with a client who has struggled with depression, anxiety, some substance use, and has a history of trauma. I would work to help this client recognize how these issues are connected and perpetuate a cycle. I would also want to help them interrupt that cycle and set boundaries with themselves and in interpersonal relationships. I would work with this client to find healthy hobbies and coping skills while also challenging them.
My ideal client would be someone who has not had much success with counseling in the past but is very motivated to participate. I would love to work with a client who has struggled with depression, anxiety, some substance use, and has a history of trauma. I would work to help this client recognize how these issues are connected and perpetuate a cycle. I would also want to help them interrupt that cycle and set boundaries with themselves and in interpersonal relationships. I would work with this client to find healthy hobbies and coping skills while also challenging them.
(856) 291-9878 View (856) 291-9878
Photo of Lena Wright, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lena Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
I have experience working with Individuals, Couples, and Families of First responders and marginalized communities struggling with the challenges of complex trauma impacting mental health, including Anxiety, Depressive disorders, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
I have experience working with Individuals, Couples, and Families of First responders and marginalized communities struggling with the challenges of complex trauma impacting mental health, including Anxiety, Depressive disorders, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
(339) 330-3752 View (339) 330-3752
Photo of Jennifer Almeida, LADC1, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Almeida
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LADC1, LICSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
My ideal client is someone who is motivated to improve the quality of their thoughts and lives and is willing to put in the effort to make positive changes. They understand the importance of mental health and are open to exploring innovative techniques to improve their well-being. One of the key issues my ideal client might be facing is low self-esteem, addiction issues, difficulty setting boundaries, and navigating difficult life transitions. The goals of my ideal client are centered around self-discovery, personal growth, and living their best life.
My ideal client is someone who is motivated to improve the quality of their thoughts and lives and is willing to put in the effort to make positive changes. They understand the importance of mental health and are open to exploring innovative techniques to improve their well-being. One of the key issues my ideal client might be facing is low self-esteem, addiction issues, difficulty setting boundaries, and navigating difficult life transitions. The goals of my ideal client are centered around self-discovery, personal growth, and living their best life.
(339) 329-8572 View (339) 329-8572
Photo of Jessica Nargiso, PhD, Psychologist
Jessica Nargiso
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02476  (Online Only)
I help women work on strategies for improving anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, as well as substance use concerns.
Do you overthink everything or are you too caught up in the “what ifs” in your head that you ensure you stay stuck? Are you too focused on making other people happy that you have lost track of yourself? Maybe you are your own worst enemy- with a well-honed inner critic that has been shit talking you for awhile now, reminding you of all the things you are messing up or getting wrong. You are doing your best- caffeine, multitasking, or white knuckling it may be getting you through (kind of), but at the end of the day you are exhausted and overwhelmed. You want to feel connected, loved, and self-confident.
I help women work on strategies for improving anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, as well as substance use concerns.
Do you overthink everything or are you too caught up in the “what ifs” in your head that you ensure you stay stuck? Are you too focused on making other people happy that you have lost track of yourself? Maybe you are your own worst enemy- with a well-honed inner critic that has been shit talking you for awhile now, reminding you of all the things you are messing up or getting wrong. You are doing your best- caffeine, multitasking, or white knuckling it may be getting you through (kind of), but at the end of the day you are exhausted and overwhelmed. You want to feel connected, loved, and self-confident.
(617) 286-3714 View (617) 286-3714
Photo of Joseph Scholl, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joseph Scholl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02474
In my 24 years as social worker at McLean Hospital and in private practice, I have worked with individuals, couples, and families who are dealing addiction to drugs and alcohol. I believe that one size does not fit all in the recovery process. I find traditional forms of recovery such as 12-step programs to be very helpful. I also utilize alternatives such as motivational enhancement therapy SMART recovery, which utilizes behavior modification techniques. I aid families in pursuing Al-Anon, where appropriate. I also facilitate interventions, both traditional and the CRAFT model, which utilizes a positive reinforcement approach.
In my 24 years as social worker at McLean Hospital and in private practice, I have worked with individuals, couples, and families who are dealing addiction to drugs and alcohol. I believe that one size does not fit all in the recovery process. I find traditional forms of recovery such as 12-step programs to be very helpful. I also utilize alternatives such as motivational enhancement therapy SMART recovery, which utilizes behavior modification techniques. I aid families in pursuing Al-Anon, where appropriate. I also facilitate interventions, both traditional and the CRAFT model, which utilizes a positive reinforcement approach.
(781) 519-2602 View (781) 519-2602
Photo of Theodore Chelmow, PhD, MEd MA, LMHC, Counselor
Theodore Chelmow
Counselor, PhD, MEd MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474  (Online Only)
Providing Massachusetts statewide services. Mental health issues are at an all time high. It's ok to ask for help. Please don't struggle alone. Dr. Chelmow has > 30 years in the mental health field - focusing on work, family, education, financial & social problems to quickly help reduce anxiety, depression, family issues & substance abuse. He has worked as a business executive & in governance. He has taught at Harvard Medical School, the University of Massachusetts, Cambridge College & Springfield College & written many articles on health care. He provides training to business on difficult work situations, stigma & multiculturalism.
Providing Massachusetts statewide services. Mental health issues are at an all time high. It's ok to ask for help. Please don't struggle alone. Dr. Chelmow has > 30 years in the mental health field - focusing on work, family, education, financial & social problems to quickly help reduce anxiety, depression, family issues & substance abuse. He has worked as a business executive & in governance. He has taught at Harvard Medical School, the University of Massachusetts, Cambridge College & Springfield College & written many articles on health care. He provides training to business on difficult work situations, stigma & multiculturalism.
(617) 855-0317 View (617) 855-0317
Photo of Ashlyn Brooks, LMHC, Counselor
Ashlyn Brooks
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474  (Online Only)
I'm Ashlyn, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Massachusetts, dedicated to working with adults who want to foster a greater sense of self-awareness & connection in their lives. I believe in an eclectic approach to therapy, 1 that blends different techniques to help you feel more connected in mind, body, & relationships. I have experience supporting individuals facing challenges with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, communication, life transitions, & substance use. In our work together, I bring transparency, authenticity, creative problem-solving, & a touch of humor to make the therapeutic process effective.
I'm Ashlyn, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Massachusetts, dedicated to working with adults who want to foster a greater sense of self-awareness & connection in their lives. I believe in an eclectic approach to therapy, 1 that blends different techniques to help you feel more connected in mind, body, & relationships. I have experience supporting individuals facing challenges with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, communication, life transitions, & substance use. In our work together, I bring transparency, authenticity, creative problem-solving, & a touch of humor to make the therapeutic process effective.
(339) 244-7023 View (339) 244-7023
Photo of Elizabeth Kelley, MS, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Kelley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02476  (Online Only)
"The best way out is always through." Are you feeling stuck? Like you aren’t living life to its full potential? People begin therapy for many reasons and I believe the therapeutic relationship should be a safe and supportive mechanism for change. My goal is to create a non-judgmental space in which you feel heard, understood, and valued. I have worked with people struggling with a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, PTSD, and psychosis. I currently work in local ERs conducting evaluations for individuals in psychiatric and substance use crises.
"The best way out is always through." Are you feeling stuck? Like you aren’t living life to its full potential? People begin therapy for many reasons and I believe the therapeutic relationship should be a safe and supportive mechanism for change. My goal is to create a non-judgmental space in which you feel heard, understood, and valued. I have worked with people struggling with a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, PTSD, and psychosis. I currently work in local ERs conducting evaluations for individuals in psychiatric and substance use crises.
(339) 300-1040 View (339) 300-1040
Photo of Elif Engin, PhD, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elif Engin
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02476
I have experience working with clients suffering from substance use, mood, and anxiety disorders, as well as trauma and PTSD.
I am a therapist with over 20 years of experience working as a neuroscientist investigating the brain mechanisms of mental health conditions. I am currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and the Director of the Stress Neurobiology Laboratory at McLean Hospital. I bring a unique, holistic approach that combines evidence-based therapies with a neuroscience-informed perspective.
I have experience working with clients suffering from substance use, mood, and anxiety disorders, as well as trauma and PTSD.
I am a therapist with over 20 years of experience working as a neuroscientist investigating the brain mechanisms of mental health conditions. I am currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and the Director of the Stress Neurobiology Laboratory at McLean Hospital. I bring a unique, holistic approach that combines evidence-based therapies with a neuroscience-informed perspective.
(339) 244-8225 View (339) 244-8225
Photo of Allen Bailey, PhD, Psychologist
Allen Bailey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
Allen focuses on compassionately delivering the most scientifically supported interventions for anxiety, mood and substance related issues.
Allen’s therapeutic approach is based on collaboration with the client to develop a personalized therapy plan based on each person’s unique concerns and life circumstances. Allen specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for the treatment of depression, social and generalized anxiety, alcohol/ substance problems, and phobias. Although Allen relies heavily on CBT principles, he also utilizes skills from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Allen's therapeutic style focuses on building skills and helping clients build a content and meaningful life.
Allen focuses on compassionately delivering the most scientifically supported interventions for anxiety, mood and substance related issues.
Allen’s therapeutic approach is based on collaboration with the client to develop a personalized therapy plan based on each person’s unique concerns and life circumstances. Allen specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for the treatment of depression, social and generalized anxiety, alcohol/ substance problems, and phobias. Although Allen relies heavily on CBT principles, he also utilizes skills from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Allen's therapeutic style focuses on building skills and helping clients build a content and meaningful life.
(617) 675-4251 View (617) 675-4251
Photo of Christine Carr, LICSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Carr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02474
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals and groups to cope with anxiety, depression, relationship/school/work concerns, trauma, substance use and other obstacles. I believe in creating a safe space, developing a therapeutic partnership, identify strengths and practice the skills so that you will have the tools to thrive.
I work with individuals and groups to cope with anxiety, depression, relationship/school/work concerns, trauma, substance use and other obstacles. I believe in creating a safe space, developing a therapeutic partnership, identify strengths and practice the skills so that you will have the tools to thrive.
(508) 684-2996 View (508) 684-2996
Photo of Michelle Cresta, LMHC, MEd, CCTP, Counselor
Michelle Cresta
Counselor, LMHC, MEd, CCTP
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
My deep experience in the field, includes a focus on anxiety, depression, substance use, identity, trauma, perinatal emotional complications, and adjustment.
Welcome to my page! I wanted to start by saying, I am happy you are making active steps to better manage your mental health. I know how challenging it can be to start the process. I wanted to share some information about my background, specialties and approach to help determine if I would be a good fit as your therapist. I graduated from Cambridge College in 2014 with an M.Ed in Counseling Psychology and Addiction Counseling. I have worked in an array of settings, including residential, inpatient and outpatient with individuals, families and groups. I also have experience with Vocational and Education Counseling and Case Management.
My deep experience in the field, includes a focus on anxiety, depression, substance use, identity, trauma, perinatal emotional complications, and adjustment.
Welcome to my page! I wanted to start by saying, I am happy you are making active steps to better manage your mental health. I know how challenging it can be to start the process. I wanted to share some information about my background, specialties and approach to help determine if I would be a good fit as your therapist. I graduated from Cambridge College in 2014 with an M.Ed in Counseling Psychology and Addiction Counseling. I have worked in an array of settings, including residential, inpatient and outpatient with individuals, families and groups. I also have experience with Vocational and Education Counseling and Case Management.
(339) 217-1933 View (339) 217-1933
Photo of Esteban Manuel da Cruz, LMHC, RYT-500, Counselor
Esteban Manuel da Cruz
Counselor, LMHC, RYT-500
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02474
I have extensive experience in trauma-informed IFS, addiction and substance use through a harm reduction lens, psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, and navigating challenging intrapersonal and interpersonal relational dynamics.
I work with individuals at all stages of their recovery, growth and development. I've found that one of the most important factors for success is that the individuals I support are ready to reclaim personal responsibility for themselves and are motivated to implement behavioral/lifestyle changes and practices that support their long-term healing and wellness. I will support you in clarifying your purpose(s), identifying necessary (inner and outer) resources to progress towards fulfilment of those purposes, and developing practices and insights into what obstructs movement towards peace, wisdom, love and fulfilment in your life.
I have extensive experience in trauma-informed IFS, addiction and substance use through a harm reduction lens, psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, and navigating challenging intrapersonal and interpersonal relational dynamics.
I work with individuals at all stages of their recovery, growth and development. I've found that one of the most important factors for success is that the individuals I support are ready to reclaim personal responsibility for themselves and are motivated to implement behavioral/lifestyle changes and practices that support their long-term healing and wellness. I will support you in clarifying your purpose(s), identifying necessary (inner and outer) resources to progress towards fulfilment of those purposes, and developing practices and insights into what obstructs movement towards peace, wisdom, love and fulfilment in your life.
(339) 300-1488 View (339) 300-1488
Photo of Meg Savin, LMHC, Counselor
Meg Savin
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02476
While I enjoy working with adults of all ages on a variety of concerns, I have particular expertise in anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, relationship struggles, career transitions or job-related stress, aging, grief and loss, assertiveness and boundary setting, and in supporting survivors of sexual assault.
In-person (Arlington) or telehealth sessions available! You may be experiencing challenges moving in a desired direction in your life or perhaps noticing patterns in your current behavior or relationships that you would like to change. I feel fortunate to work in a field where I witness healing change every day, and it is a privilege to hear your unique story. With experience working in a number of diverse settings including community mental health, offering group therapy, working with college counseling centers, as well as on a rape crisis hotline, I bring an active and warm approach to therapy.
While I enjoy working with adults of all ages on a variety of concerns, I have particular expertise in anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, relationship struggles, career transitions or job-related stress, aging, grief and loss, assertiveness and boundary setting, and in supporting survivors of sexual assault.
In-person (Arlington) or telehealth sessions available! You may be experiencing challenges moving in a desired direction in your life or perhaps noticing patterns in your current behavior or relationships that you would like to change. I feel fortunate to work in a field where I witness healing change every day, and it is a privilege to hear your unique story. With experience working in a number of diverse settings including community mental health, offering group therapy, working with college counseling centers, as well as on a rape crisis hotline, I bring an active and warm approach to therapy.
(339) 209-2663 View (339) 209-2663
Photo of Paulomi Davé-Potter, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paulomi Davé-Potter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02474
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about helping foreign-born professionals, first generation Americans, young adults, and women learn how to manage the stresses of daily life. Whether it's ongoing depression, anxiety, parenting struggles, health issues, job-related stress, addiction, or difficult behaviors in children and adolescents; I believe you can overcome these challenges and live a full and rewarding life. I approach your problems with curiosity and kindness as I believe you are the expert on your own experience. I will work with you to help guide you, learn new tools, and make positive choices that fit for you, your family, and your life.
I am passionate about helping foreign-born professionals, first generation Americans, young adults, and women learn how to manage the stresses of daily life. Whether it's ongoing depression, anxiety, parenting struggles, health issues, job-related stress, addiction, or difficult behaviors in children and adolescents; I believe you can overcome these challenges and live a full and rewarding life. I approach your problems with curiosity and kindness as I believe you are the expert on your own experience. I will work with you to help guide you, learn new tools, and make positive choices that fit for you, your family, and your life.
(339) 674-6028 View (339) 674-6028
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.