Photo of Jerry Richardson, LLMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jerry Richardson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49686
My areas of expertise include psychotherapy, alcohol/substance abuse, and relationship issues and I utilize aspects from numerous evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Psychoeducation.
This Clinician Has Immediate Availability! We are all going through our own struggles, and it is natural to want to find some kind of relief from what we are going through. Too often though, we frequently find ourselves back at square one over and over again wondering why this keeps happening. Mental Health counseling offers us a chance to try and understand our stress, the meaning behind our symptoms, and allows us an opportunity to finally get unstuck.
My areas of expertise include psychotherapy, alcohol/substance abuse, and relationship issues and I utilize aspects from numerous evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Psychoeducation.
This Clinician Has Immediate Availability! We are all going through our own struggles, and it is natural to want to find some kind of relief from what we are going through. Too often though, we frequently find ourselves back at square one over and over again wondering why this keeps happening. Mental Health counseling offers us a chance to try and understand our stress, the meaning behind our symptoms, and allows us an opportunity to finally get unstuck.
(231) 403-0865 View (231) 403-0865
Photo of Julie A Bernhard (Kachadurian), MA, LLP, CAADC, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Julie A Bernhard (Kachadurian)
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP, CAADC
Not Verified Not Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684
I am adept in working with people experiencing addiction, gambling problems, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, ADHD, depression and self-esteem issues.
My passion is helping people function to the best of their ability and reach their goals. I have been providing therapy for people with mental health and substance use problems since 1988. I have a Master of Arts in Counseling and I am a Limited Licensed Psychologist. I am a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. My approach to treatment of substance use problems includes therapy, education, relapse prevention skills, and developing a healthy non-using life style. I also provide therapy for clients who participate in medically assisted treatment for substance use problems.
I am adept in working with people experiencing addiction, gambling problems, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, ADHD, depression and self-esteem issues.
My passion is helping people function to the best of their ability and reach their goals. I have been providing therapy for people with mental health and substance use problems since 1988. I have a Master of Arts in Counseling and I am a Limited Licensed Psychologist. I am a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. My approach to treatment of substance use problems includes therapy, education, relapse prevention skills, and developing a healthy non-using life style. I also provide therapy for clients who participate in medically assisted treatment for substance use problems.
(231) 674-1088 View (231) 674-1088
Photo of Matthew D VanDerMeulen, PsyD, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Matthew D VanDerMeulen
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PsyD, LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
Matt has over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families with a wide range of issues such as mood related issues, behavioral related issues, severe and persistent mental illness, substance abuse and addictions, relationship issues, TBI and other cognitive related issues, performance related issues.
Life can get hard. There are countless obstacles that we encounter on a daily basis that can be overwhelming at times. When trying to make it through the day these obstacles sometimes present a weight that feels insurmountable. In addition, life can sometimes seem isolating and debilitating. I believe that the core component of a successful therapeutic relationship is, in fact, the relationship. Making the changes one desires is achievable through a collaborative, trusting, and compassionate dynamic.
Matt has over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families with a wide range of issues such as mood related issues, behavioral related issues, severe and persistent mental illness, substance abuse and addictions, relationship issues, TBI and other cognitive related issues, performance related issues.
Life can get hard. There are countless obstacles that we encounter on a daily basis that can be overwhelming at times. When trying to make it through the day these obstacles sometimes present a weight that feels insurmountable. In addition, life can sometimes seem isolating and debilitating. I believe that the core component of a successful therapeutic relationship is, in fact, the relationship. Making the changes one desires is achievable through a collaborative, trusting, and compassionate dynamic.
(231) 241-8178 View (231) 241-8178
Photo of Margaret (Maggie) Hartmann - Begin Again Counseling Pllc, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret (Maggie) Hartmann - Begin Again Counseling Pllc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49686  (Online Only)
My focus is women and adult individuals seeking support with trauma, substance use/addiction, co-occurring disorders, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, loss, aging, relationships and co-dependence. Perceptions can and do change throughout our lives. It is never too late to begin again and there is always hope! Therapy serves as a vehicle to help you safely navigate your learning and personal growth, and to open doors to new possibilities. Together, through non-judgmental supportive guidance, we’ll develop skills that are the best fit to empower and enable the attainment of the life you desire!
My focus is women and adult individuals seeking support with trauma, substance use/addiction, co-occurring disorders, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, loss, aging, relationships and co-dependence. Perceptions can and do change throughout our lives. It is never too late to begin again and there is always hope! Therapy serves as a vehicle to help you safely navigate your learning and personal growth, and to open doors to new possibilities. Together, through non-judgmental supportive guidance, we’ll develop skills that are the best fit to empower and enable the attainment of the life you desire!
(231) 646-8236 View (231) 646-8236
Photo of Nicholas J Comai, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicholas J Comai
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684  (Online Only)
Adults with anxiety, depression, PTSD, adjustment disorders (difficult life transitions), mood/emotion management struggles, and substance use disorders, paired with LGBTQIA stressors, equality/diversity advocacy, relationship challenges, young adult/professional struggles, performance pressure/stress, chronic pain/physical health conditions,and grief/loss.
I began my journey into the helping profession by directly reaching out to individuals experiencing chronic homelessness in the streets, camps, and surrounding areas of Grand Traverse County as a member of a local Street Outreach team. I continued by earning both bachelor and master degrees in clinical social work from Ferris State University, while gathering diverse experience in a range of settings and roles in the Kent County area; including community living supports, family case management, inpatient psychiatric hospitalization, crisis residential, home-based family therapy, outpatient individual therapy, and private practice.
Adults with anxiety, depression, PTSD, adjustment disorders (difficult life transitions), mood/emotion management struggles, and substance use disorders, paired with LGBTQIA stressors, equality/diversity advocacy, relationship challenges, young adult/professional struggles, performance pressure/stress, chronic pain/physical health conditions,and grief/loss.
I began my journey into the helping profession by directly reaching out to individuals experiencing chronic homelessness in the streets, camps, and surrounding areas of Grand Traverse County as a member of a local Street Outreach team. I continued by earning both bachelor and master degrees in clinical social work from Ferris State University, while gathering diverse experience in a range of settings and roles in the Kent County area; including community living supports, family case management, inpatient psychiatric hospitalization, crisis residential, home-based family therapy, outpatient individual therapy, and private practice.
(616) 427-1938 View (616) 427-1938
Photo of Tanya S Douglas, LMSW, CAADC, CHT, QIDP, QMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tanya S Douglas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, CHT, QIDP, QMHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684  (Online Only)
As an LMSW I have experience in treating substance use disorders, relapse prevention, crisis, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, PTSD, trauma, mood disorders, personality disorders, and more.
It can be scary and intimidating when entering therapy. It is quite common that people can feel very vulnerable with the idea of sharing intimate details of their life. As a therapist, I believe it is a privilege to be invited into another person’s life. My philosophy is that I do not believe that people are broken, but rather each person is a unique individual who has, at some point, encountered struggles on the journey of being human. Therapy is often needed when those struggles become so intense that they impact the quality of life. Therapy is not about fixing people but rather learning, adapting and overcoming the challenges.
As an LMSW I have experience in treating substance use disorders, relapse prevention, crisis, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, PTSD, trauma, mood disorders, personality disorders, and more.
It can be scary and intimidating when entering therapy. It is quite common that people can feel very vulnerable with the idea of sharing intimate details of their life. As a therapist, I believe it is a privilege to be invited into another person’s life. My philosophy is that I do not believe that people are broken, but rather each person is a unique individual who has, at some point, encountered struggles on the journey of being human. Therapy is often needed when those struggles become so intense that they impact the quality of life. Therapy is not about fixing people but rather learning, adapting and overcoming the challenges.
(616) 236-2683 View (616) 236-2683
Photo of Ryan Townes, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ryan Townes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients - Morning and Afternoon appointments available. I have a focus in working with adult individuals, 18 and older, struggling with anxiety and/or seeking support with LGBTQ+ related concerns, such as sexual orientation, sexual identity, and dysphoria. If you, or someone you know, is seeking an LGBTQIA+ affirming counselor who also identifies under the spectrum, or is seeking help with substance use related concerns, ADHD, racial identity, grief, or depression, please contact the office and ask for an appointment with Ryan Townes by texting 6162872283, or you can also email me.
Accepting New Clients - Morning and Afternoon appointments available. I have a focus in working with adult individuals, 18 and older, struggling with anxiety and/or seeking support with LGBTQ+ related concerns, such as sexual orientation, sexual identity, and dysphoria. If you, or someone you know, is seeking an LGBTQIA+ affirming counselor who also identifies under the spectrum, or is seeking help with substance use related concerns, ADHD, racial identity, grief, or depression, please contact the office and ask for an appointment with Ryan Townes by texting 6162872283, or you can also email me.
(616) 208-5832 View (616) 208-5832
Photo of Amy Kerin Creagh (Formerly Reynolds) - Being Centered Counseling, MA, LLP, LLPC, NCC, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Being Centered Counseling
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP, LLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684  (Online Only)
For the past 25 years I have worked with clients in individual and group therapy settings addressing a wide array of addiction, psychological, and life transition issues.
Therapy can be an essential support to help you reduce stress, process issues, and find more joy in life. I aim to help clients find peace in themselves and the world around them. Whether we are focused on learning better coping skills, addressing addiction, or processing past traumas, we will use the therapy relationship to meet your goals. I have specialized training in Adult ADHD treatment. Parts Work/Internal Family Systems therapy, and Brainspotting therapy for treating trauma and improving performance.
For the past 25 years I have worked with clients in individual and group therapy settings addressing a wide array of addiction, psychological, and life transition issues.
Therapy can be an essential support to help you reduce stress, process issues, and find more joy in life. I aim to help clients find peace in themselves and the world around them. Whether we are focused on learning better coping skills, addressing addiction, or processing past traumas, we will use the therapy relationship to meet your goals. I have specialized training in Adult ADHD treatment. Parts Work/Internal Family Systems therapy, and Brainspotting therapy for treating trauma and improving performance.
(616) 236-2915 View (616) 236-2915
Photo of Daniel Herd, MSW, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniel Herd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
Therapy should be fun. It should be something you look forward to, not something you push yourself to get through. I want you to leave the counseling session feeling lighter, more energized, and more enthusiastic about your future. My goal is to enthrive; and to help you do the same for yourself. Counseling with me is a series of skill sessions for your brain, to help it develop new methods of looking at the past and relating to the future. Together we can create your new outlook on life. Call or check out Enthrive North to find out more.
Therapy should be fun. It should be something you look forward to, not something you push yourself to get through. I want you to leave the counseling session feeling lighter, more energized, and more enthusiastic about your future. My goal is to enthrive; and to help you do the same for yourself. Counseling with me is a series of skill sessions for your brain, to help it develop new methods of looking at the past and relating to the future. Together we can create your new outlook on life. Call or check out Enthrive North to find out more.
(231) 492-0808 View (231) 492-0808
Photo of Nicole Ball - Mental Wellness Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mental Wellness Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49686
Mental Wellness Counseling is a Northern Michigan Counseling Practice. Our counselors use their passion, experience and specialties to help clients heal from traumatic experiences, address symptoms related to anxiety and depression, help strengthen relationships and help guide you through the journey of finding the best version of yourself. When you call we try to make the best fit for you based on your needs and goals. We offer face to face and virtual sessions to best meet your needs. We now have 3 locations! Two in Traverse City and a new office in Manistee!
Mental Wellness Counseling is a Northern Michigan Counseling Practice. Our counselors use their passion, experience and specialties to help clients heal from traumatic experiences, address symptoms related to anxiety and depression, help strengthen relationships and help guide you through the journey of finding the best version of yourself. When you call we try to make the best fit for you based on your needs and goals. We offer face to face and virtual sessions to best meet your needs. We now have 3 locations! Two in Traverse City and a new office in Manistee!
(231) 714-0282 View (231) 714-0282
Photo of Roberta LaMont - Traverse Health Clinic, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Traverse Health Clinic
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49686
Waitlist for new clients
Traverse Health Clinic provides behavioral health services to adults and adolescents ages 12 and up, even if you haven't established primary care with one of our medical providers. Our behavioral health services are provided by licensed therapists who are trained and qualified to help patients experiencing life stressors or mental health issues. Therapists are able to assist individuals in learning constructive ways to handle problems that interfere with everyday life. Services are usually time-limited and focused on specific goals that you, the patient, have identified.
Traverse Health Clinic provides behavioral health services to adults and adolescents ages 12 and up, even if you haven't established primary care with one of our medical providers. Our behavioral health services are provided by licensed therapists who are trained and qualified to help patients experiencing life stressors or mental health issues. Therapists are able to assist individuals in learning constructive ways to handle problems that interfere with everyday life. Services are usually time-limited and focused on specific goals that you, the patient, have identified.
(231) 935-0799 View (231) 935-0799
Photo of Thomas J Zinski, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thomas J Zinski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684  (Online Only)
I have been able to work with a variety of people experiencing a variety of symptoms and situations. I'm very motivated to help people gain insight linked to thinking and behavioral patterns, and develop healthier ways of coping and getting through the day with less struggle.
I have been able to work with a variety of people experiencing a variety of symptoms and situations. I'm very motivated to help people gain insight linked to thinking and behavioral patterns, and develop healthier ways of coping and getting through the day with less struggle.
(906) 208-8339 View (906) 208-8339
Photo of Jc Bailey, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jc Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49686
I believe that all humans are created with the desire to heal and move to wholeness. Life events, family of origin or trauma can disrupt this wholeness often leaving in it's place anxiety, depression and feeling stuck. It is my honor to collaborate with my clients to restore balance and return to a place of wholeness, joy and security.
I believe that all humans are created with the desire to heal and move to wholeness. Life events, family of origin or trauma can disrupt this wholeness often leaving in it's place anxiety, depression and feeling stuck. It is my honor to collaborate with my clients to restore balance and return to a place of wholeness, joy and security.
(231) 599-9292 View (231) 599-9292
Photo of Marcie L Hester, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marcie L Hester
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49686  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a client-centered therapist, I believe you are the expert in your own life. I consider it to be a privilege and blessing to be a part of your journey to find fulfillment in your life. I work from a holistic framework, holding the central hypothesis that every person has the innate potential for personal awareness and growth. I strive to maintain the creative and dynamic process of therapy utilizing theory and interventions from multiple models of therapy. I am committed to creating a therapeutic environment based on collaboration, action-oriented interventions, skill building and honest, supportive feedback.
As a client-centered therapist, I believe you are the expert in your own life. I consider it to be a privilege and blessing to be a part of your journey to find fulfillment in your life. I work from a holistic framework, holding the central hypothesis that every person has the innate potential for personal awareness and growth. I strive to maintain the creative and dynamic process of therapy utilizing theory and interventions from multiple models of therapy. I am committed to creating a therapeutic environment based on collaboration, action-oriented interventions, skill building and honest, supportive feedback.
(231) 879-5114 View (231) 879-5114
Photo of Emily K Knapp - Leelanau Life Counseling, PLLC, MA, LPC, Counselor
Leelanau Life Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49684
I have a passion for helping others achieve the best version of themselves. Taking the first step to become a happier person can be a daunting task. I want to reassure you that you are not alone. We will work together to rebuild relationships, overcome anxieties, fears, and negative behaviors. I will strive to help you achieve the best version of yourself. Located in the heart of downtown Traverse City, MI.
I have a passion for helping others achieve the best version of themselves. Taking the first step to become a happier person can be a daunting task. I want to reassure you that you are not alone. We will work together to rebuild relationships, overcome anxieties, fears, and negative behaviors. I will strive to help you achieve the best version of yourself. Located in the heart of downtown Traverse City, MI.
(231) 225-4186 View (231) 225-4186
Photo of Gary Vann, PhD, Psychologist
Gary Vann
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684
Thank you for taking time to learn how we can partner together. I offer an atmosphere of warmth, encouragement, wellness and 35 years of experience as a marriage & family psychologist. Having raised a son and daughter, married a long time and six grandchildren, I know families, careers and life in general can be very stressful. It is my passion to help you make your journey easier and successful for you. Knowledge is power - the more you learn about yourself, communication skills, and acquire tools to eliminate depression, anxiety, anger, phobias, etc. the happier you will be in all aspects of life!
Thank you for taking time to learn how we can partner together. I offer an atmosphere of warmth, encouragement, wellness and 35 years of experience as a marriage & family psychologist. Having raised a son and daughter, married a long time and six grandchildren, I know families, careers and life in general can be very stressful. It is my passion to help you make your journey easier and successful for you. Knowledge is power - the more you learn about yourself, communication skills, and acquire tools to eliminate depression, anxiety, anger, phobias, etc. the happier you will be in all aspects of life!
(231) 225-9699 View (231) 225-9699
Photo of Jessica Warpup, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Warpup
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49686
My name is Jessica, and I'm hoping you will let me help you work through “every day” challenges to improve your relationships and daily functioning. I will work to provide an environment in which together you and I can work through your past and present struggles, coping mechanisms, and experiences in order to better understand your needs and ultimately yourself. This will help you to improve communication of your needs and thus your relationship(s) with others. I offer a secure place to be your authentic self where you can explore your history, self- and family values, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
My name is Jessica, and I'm hoping you will let me help you work through “every day” challenges to improve your relationships and daily functioning. I will work to provide an environment in which together you and I can work through your past and present struggles, coping mechanisms, and experiences in order to better understand your needs and ultimately yourself. This will help you to improve communication of your needs and thus your relationship(s) with others. I offer a secure place to be your authentic self where you can explore your history, self- and family values, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
(231) 216-0291 View (231) 216-0291
Photo of Chad Allee - Michigan Safe Space LGBT+ Therapy & Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michigan Safe Space LGBT+ Therapy & Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684  (Online Only)
We welcome you. We will welcome you regardless of your present status; anxious, sad, angry, lonely, happy, questioning, depressed, lost or otherwise. We will welcome you regardless of your current family situation, relationship or marital status or lack thereof. We will welcome you if you have been to therapy in the past, are looking to come in for the first time, or have no idea what to expect. We will not judge you based upon your personal history, age, race, ethnic background, appearance, sexual orientation or gender identity. We welcome all beliefs, religions, spirituality, and affiliations. We welcome you.
We welcome you. We will welcome you regardless of your present status; anxious, sad, angry, lonely, happy, questioning, depressed, lost or otherwise. We will welcome you regardless of your current family situation, relationship or marital status or lack thereof. We will welcome you if you have been to therapy in the past, are looking to come in for the first time, or have no idea what to expect. We will not judge you based upon your personal history, age, race, ethnic background, appearance, sexual orientation or gender identity. We welcome all beliefs, religions, spirituality, and affiliations. We welcome you.
(231) 277-2414 View (231) 277-2414
Photo of Tami Hubbard, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tami Hubbard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49686  (Online Only)
Are you having Mental health symptoms or awakening symptoms? Do you feel stuck in the OLD and wanting to become NEW? Are you experiencing symptoms mentally, emotionally and physically from the fear and uncertainty that is present ? Lets explore together what you need to move forward on this journey with more ease which will bring you into alignment and embodiment with your Whole Self. I have been on this Journey for years and facilitating others in this process of integration/transmutation along my path. Come and explore this 3 step process of natural awakening and evolve to new YOU! -
Are you having Mental health symptoms or awakening symptoms? Do you feel stuck in the OLD and wanting to become NEW? Are you experiencing symptoms mentally, emotionally and physically from the fear and uncertainty that is present ? Lets explore together what you need to move forward on this journey with more ease which will bring you into alignment and embodiment with your Whole Self. I have been on this Journey for years and facilitating others in this process of integration/transmutation along my path. Come and explore this 3 step process of natural awakening and evolve to new YOU! -
(541) 612-8360 View (541) 612-8360
Photo of Wendy Dittrich Croll, MA, LPC, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wendy Dittrich Croll
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LLC
Verified Verified
Traverse City, MI 49684
No matter how hard you try to move forward, you feel like your taking one step back. You’re a high performer with perfectionism tendencies and always put on a smile, which helps you forget your pain. You feel you will never be fully happy and never be able to fully enjoy life how others do, because of your many losses, attributing to your decreased self esteem. You may keep friends and family at a distance, to protect yourself from yet another inevitable loss. You may have stopped exercising and taking care of yourself the way you used to, since it takes too much work and you're just surviving at the end of another long day.
No matter how hard you try to move forward, you feel like your taking one step back. You’re a high performer with perfectionism tendencies and always put on a smile, which helps you forget your pain. You feel you will never be fully happy and never be able to fully enjoy life how others do, because of your many losses, attributing to your decreased self esteem. You may keep friends and family at a distance, to protect yourself from yet another inevitable loss. You may have stopped exercising and taking care of yourself the way you used to, since it takes too much work and you're just surviving at the end of another long day.
(231) 742-7095 View (231) 742-7095
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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.