Addiction Therapists in Commack, NY

Photo of Angela Paz, LMHC, CASAC-T, Counselor
Angela Paz
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Commack, NY 11725
My expertise lies in CBT and addiction counseling.
Life's journey often presents us with daunting obstacles like anxiety, depression, and addiction, making daily tasks feel unmanageable. However, there is a path forward through these challenges. I am here to help you process and grow through life's trials and tribulations, assisting you in rediscovering self-love and building a healthier relationship with yourself and others. The foundation of my practice is my dream to create a positive therapeutic relationship that genuinely aids those grappling with mental health challenges.
My expertise lies in CBT and addiction counseling.
Life's journey often presents us with daunting obstacles like anxiety, depression, and addiction, making daily tasks feel unmanageable. However, there is a path forward through these challenges. I am here to help you process and grow through life's trials and tribulations, assisting you in rediscovering self-love and building a healthier relationship with yourself and others. The foundation of my practice is my dream to create a positive therapeutic relationship that genuinely aids those grappling with mental health challenges.
(631) 212-0520 View (631) 212-0520
Photo of James Mayer, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Mayer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Commack, NY 11725
TTSC also offers expert guidance and treatment for those with substance use disorders and/or addiction concerns.
Hello and Welcome- At True to Self Counseling we believe a supportive therapeutic relationship can have a significant impact for anyone. It can help provide insight, strength, solutions, and new coping strategies for all types of challenges in life. Our experience has shown us that when people are provided with a comfortable environment, they become willing to explore and express themselves more freely and honestly. Our hope is that we successfully guide people towards a greater self-awareness. We believe it is empowering when people can utilize their own unique abilities to overcome the concerns that led them into therapy
TTSC also offers expert guidance and treatment for those with substance use disorders and/or addiction concerns.
Hello and Welcome- At True to Self Counseling we believe a supportive therapeutic relationship can have a significant impact for anyone. It can help provide insight, strength, solutions, and new coping strategies for all types of challenges in life. Our experience has shown us that when people are provided with a comfortable environment, they become willing to explore and express themselves more freely and honestly. Our hope is that we successfully guide people towards a greater self-awareness. We believe it is empowering when people can utilize their own unique abilities to overcome the concerns that led them into therapy
(516) 570-3998 View (516) 570-3998
Photo of Michaella Vagelatos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michaella Vagelatos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Commack, NY 11725  (Online Only)
My experience in this field varies from settings including inpatient psychiatric hospitals, private practice and outpatient substance abuse facility with a large mental health component.
First and foremost, thank you for visiting my page! I am a firm believer that we are all doing the best we can with the resources we are given. In addition, we are making decisions based off our reality at that time. Meeting my clients where they are at is a value I will always uphold. Taking the step to seek counseling is one to be proud of, and I am looking forward to navigating the uncertainty of this process together!
My experience in this field varies from settings including inpatient psychiatric hospitals, private practice and outpatient substance abuse facility with a large mental health component.
First and foremost, thank you for visiting my page! I am a firm believer that we are all doing the best we can with the resources we are given. In addition, we are making decisions based off our reality at that time. Meeting my clients where they are at is a value I will always uphold. Taking the step to seek counseling is one to be proud of, and I am looking forward to navigating the uncertainty of this process together!
(631) 894-9478 View (631) 894-9478
Photo of Judith H. Grodinsky, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judith H. Grodinsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Commack, NY 11725  (Online Only)
My treatment specialization includes:Marital and Couples' Difficulties, Addiction and Recovery, Anxiety and Stress, Eating Disorders, Family Problems, Work Difficulties, Gay Issues, Adolescent Behaviors, and Academic Under/Achievement.
My name is Judy and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-R/Therapist with over 23 years experience in private practice. I specialize in counseling children, adolescents, and adults in individual, family, and group modalities. I assist these individuals navigate life's rapids helping them experience joys while confronting challenges of life's transitions. I aid parents in helping their children navigate the land mines of contemporary childhood. I believe in the work I do and I sincerely want to help people live richer, more satisfying lives. I am committed to supporting my clients in achieving their fullest potential.
My treatment specialization includes:Marital and Couples' Difficulties, Addiction and Recovery, Anxiety and Stress, Eating Disorders, Family Problems, Work Difficulties, Gay Issues, Adolescent Behaviors, and Academic Under/Achievement.
My name is Judy and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-R/Therapist with over 23 years experience in private practice. I specialize in counseling children, adolescents, and adults in individual, family, and group modalities. I assist these individuals navigate life's rapids helping them experience joys while confronting challenges of life's transitions. I aid parents in helping their children navigate the land mines of contemporary childhood. I believe in the work I do and I sincerely want to help people live richer, more satisfying lives. I am committed to supporting my clients in achieving their fullest potential.
(631) 392-7186 View (631) 392-7186
Photo of Caroline G O'Connell, MA, Ed, MHC-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Caroline G O'Connell
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, Ed, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Commack, NY 11725
Are you navigating life challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, or a personality disorder? If you're looking to transform your life, find clarity, and achieve personal growth, you’ve already taken a brave first step towards healing. My practice offers a sanctuary where your goals are our central focus, providing a safe space to explore your aspirations and empower you towards the life you desire. Together, we can unlock your potential and guide you on a path of self-discovery and resilience.
Are you navigating life challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, or a personality disorder? If you're looking to transform your life, find clarity, and achieve personal growth, you’ve already taken a brave first step towards healing. My practice offers a sanctuary where your goals are our central focus, providing a safe space to explore your aspirations and empower you towards the life you desire. Together, we can unlock your potential and guide you on a path of self-discovery and resilience.
(631) 825-7647 View (631) 825-7647
Photo of Kisha Heron, LMHC, CASAC-T, Counselor
Kisha Heron
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Commack, NY 11725  (Online Only)
I have both personal and professional experience dealing with the brokenness of addiction, struggles of mood disorders, being dually diagnosed, and the pain of trauma.
Do you ever feel like something is missing? Like there is a void that nothing seems to fill? Ever feel bound or trapped by the failures of your past? The regrets of your mistakes? The pressure and weight of depression, anxiety, family strain, and stress ever wear you down and wear you out? Well I believe there is an answer and it is found in wholeness! It is found in the truth of who you are! The unity of the family system. The healing from the past. The acceptance of the present. The hope of the future.
I have both personal and professional experience dealing with the brokenness of addiction, struggles of mood disorders, being dually diagnosed, and the pain of trauma.
Do you ever feel like something is missing? Like there is a void that nothing seems to fill? Ever feel bound or trapped by the failures of your past? The regrets of your mistakes? The pressure and weight of depression, anxiety, family strain, and stress ever wear you down and wear you out? Well I believe there is an answer and it is found in wholeness! It is found in the truth of who you are! The unity of the family system. The healing from the past. The acceptance of the present. The hope of the future.
(631) 881-4710 View (631) 881-4710
Photo of Sean Tendler, LMHC, Counselor
Sean Tendler
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Commack, NY 11725
I specialize in addiction, anxiety, OCD, depression, and stress.
I sincerely believe that people can change. Sometimes we just need help navigating that process. If you are experiencing distress, despair, or maybe just feel lost, I will help you find a solution. My approach involves helping people get unstuck from the destructive traps that we find ourselves in. I can help you tap into your internal strength, tenacity, and motivation. This will empower you to not only achieve your goals, but sustain them long-term. I do this through effective therapy techniques backed by scientific research, coupled with compassion, support, and encouragement. In our sessions, we can heal your suffering together.
I specialize in addiction, anxiety, OCD, depression, and stress.
I sincerely believe that people can change. Sometimes we just need help navigating that process. If you are experiencing distress, despair, or maybe just feel lost, I will help you find a solution. My approach involves helping people get unstuck from the destructive traps that we find ourselves in. I can help you tap into your internal strength, tenacity, and motivation. This will empower you to not only achieve your goals, but sustain them long-term. I do this through effective therapy techniques backed by scientific research, coupled with compassion, support, and encouragement. In our sessions, we can heal your suffering together.
(631) 529-2170 View (631) 529-2170
Photo of Roy W. Berman, LCSW, BCD, CASAC, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roy W. Berman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, CASAC, CSAT
Verified Verified
Commack, NY 11725
The ultimate goals of treatment are to help clients develop greater emotional maturity, a healthier self-identity and to enhance and develop healthy interpersonal relationships, a better self-esteem and self-worth addiction free.
My name is Roy Berman, L.C.S.W., B.C.D. , C.A.S.A.C., C.S.A.T. I have been a psychotherapist over forty years and I was clinically trained at Columbia University School of Social Work. I also have over two thousand hours of training in the addictions. My areas of specialty are alcoholism, substance abuse, gambling, sex addiction, compulsive over-eating, co-dependency and how these disorders affect the family. I am a psychodynamic and interactive psychotherapist. I actively get involved with my clients, constantly offering feedback and interpretation, not afraid to actively participate in the therapeutic process.
The ultimate goals of treatment are to help clients develop greater emotional maturity, a healthier self-identity and to enhance and develop healthy interpersonal relationships, a better self-esteem and self-worth addiction free.
My name is Roy Berman, L.C.S.W., B.C.D. , C.A.S.A.C., C.S.A.T. I have been a psychotherapist over forty years and I was clinically trained at Columbia University School of Social Work. I also have over two thousand hours of training in the addictions. My areas of specialty are alcoholism, substance abuse, gambling, sex addiction, compulsive over-eating, co-dependency and how these disorders affect the family. I am a psychodynamic and interactive psychotherapist. I actively get involved with my clients, constantly offering feedback and interpretation, not afraid to actively participate in the therapeutic process.
(631) 593-5696 View (631) 593-5696
Photo of Tina Flanagan, LMHC, CASAC, Counselor
Tina Flanagan
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Commack, NY 11725
What happens when you sit at home at night and the world quiets down around you? Do you feel uncomfortable in your own skin? Do you feel as though you’re not at ease with where you are in life? So many of us struggle with this uneasiness inside of us that we don’t know exactly how to handle. The uneasiness leads us to make decisions that end up being counterproductive in our life. Whether it comes down to anxiety, addiction, codependency, impulsive shopping/eating or any other destructive behavior, we can help you work through these experiences and accomplish all your goals!
What happens when you sit at home at night and the world quiets down around you? Do you feel uncomfortable in your own skin? Do you feel as though you’re not at ease with where you are in life? So many of us struggle with this uneasiness inside of us that we don’t know exactly how to handle. The uneasiness leads us to make decisions that end up being counterproductive in our life. Whether it comes down to anxiety, addiction, codependency, impulsive shopping/eating or any other destructive behavior, we can help you work through these experiences and accomplish all your goals!
(631) 449-7200 View (631) 449-7200
Photo of Stephanie Persico, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Persico
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Commack, NY 11725  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with adults and adolescents battling various mental health barriers; some including: anxiety disorders, depression, alcohol/ substance abuse, personality disorders, family/relationship concerns, trauma and self-esteem issues. I offer a warm, safe and supportive environment that allows individuals to discuss their concerns free of judgment.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with adults and adolescents battling various mental health barriers; some including: anxiety disorders, depression, alcohol/ substance abuse, personality disorders, family/relationship concerns, trauma and self-esteem issues. I offer a warm, safe and supportive environment that allows individuals to discuss their concerns free of judgment.
(631) 652-9809 View (631) 652-9809
Photo of Tiffany S Grant-Zellem, LCSW-R, CASAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany S Grant-Zellem
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CASAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Commack, NY 11725
I am specialized in, addiction, anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, adjustment disorder, relationship and family issues.
I work with many clients from many different backgrounds and cultures. My priority and number one goal is to enhance their lives and over all psychological functioning and wellbeing. I am not here to fix you, as you are not broken. My main goal is to help every single client to actualize and become the best version of themselves. I approach each client as an individual, with respect, dignity, and sensitivity. I view myself as working alongside each client towards creating more fulfilling opportunities, while reducing long standing negative behaviors, feelings, and thought patterns.
I am specialized in, addiction, anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, adjustment disorder, relationship and family issues.
I work with many clients from many different backgrounds and cultures. My priority and number one goal is to enhance their lives and over all psychological functioning and wellbeing. I am not here to fix you, as you are not broken. My main goal is to help every single client to actualize and become the best version of themselves. I approach each client as an individual, with respect, dignity, and sensitivity. I view myself as working alongside each client towards creating more fulfilling opportunities, while reducing long standing negative behaviors, feelings, and thought patterns.
(631) 239-7160 View (631) 239-7160
Photo of Andrew Parisi, MSW, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrew Parisi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Commack, NY 11725
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years experience in the field of mental health and addiction. I have extensive experience working with individuals diagnosed with mood disorders and personality disorders but also treat behavioral issues, anger management, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction. My philosophy on addiction recovery is rooted in the 12 steps. I prefer an eclectic approach when it comes to treatment in order to foster growth and promote self-awareness. I am reality based and have a genuine desire to help individuals grow emotionally and spiritually in order to get results with their difficulties while offering unconditional acceptance versus enabling.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years experience in the field of mental health and addiction. I have extensive experience working with individuals diagnosed with mood disorders and personality disorders but also treat behavioral issues, anger management, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction. My philosophy on addiction recovery is rooted in the 12 steps. I prefer an eclectic approach when it comes to treatment in order to foster growth and promote self-awareness. I am reality based and have a genuine desire to help individuals grow emotionally and spiritually in order to get results with their difficulties while offering unconditional acceptance versus enabling.
(631) 830-0059 View (631) 830-0059
Photo of Cristina Porchetta, MHC-LP
Cristina Porchetta
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Commack, NY 11725
Seeking support can be overwhelming, but you don't have to face it alone. My goal is to foster a safe, empathetic, and accepting environment where you can comfortably explore and achieve your personal goals. With extensive experience working across diverse populations and age groups, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, substance use, and personality disorders, My therapeutic approach is eclectic and tailored to your needs, incorporating CBT, DBT, Person-Centered Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Our sessions will empower you to navigate life with confidence and turn difficulties into opportunities of growth.
Seeking support can be overwhelming, but you don't have to face it alone. My goal is to foster a safe, empathetic, and accepting environment where you can comfortably explore and achieve your personal goals. With extensive experience working across diverse populations and age groups, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, substance use, and personality disorders, My therapeutic approach is eclectic and tailored to your needs, incorporating CBT, DBT, Person-Centered Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Our sessions will empower you to navigate life with confidence and turn difficulties into opportunities of growth.
(631) 353-6685 View (631) 353-6685
Photo of Juliann O’Leary - Juliann O’Leary LMHC, LMHC, CASAC, Counselor
Juliann O’Leary LMHC
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Commack, NY 11725
My areas of practice include anxiety, depression, SPMI population, substance abuse counseling, life transitions, wellness-self management and self-esteem.
“Half the Battle is just showing up.” Seeking counseling is often not easy; but showing up is half the battle. It would be my pleasure to walk along side you on your journey to wellness. I believe in the importance of finding the right counselor; and look forward to helping you embark on the path to healing.
My areas of practice include anxiety, depression, SPMI population, substance abuse counseling, life transitions, wellness-self management and self-esteem.
“Half the Battle is just showing up.” Seeking counseling is often not easy; but showing up is half the battle. It would be my pleasure to walk along side you on your journey to wellness. I believe in the importance of finding the right counselor; and look forward to helping you embark on the path to healing.
(631) 888-5917 View (631) 888-5917
Photo of Lauren Donahue, MHC-LP
Lauren Donahue
MHC-LP
Not Verified Not Verified
Commack, NY 11725
I have experience working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, trauma, grief/bereavement, OCD, sexual abuse, and substance abuse.
I am a mental health counselor(MHC-LP). I graduated from Adelphi University with my master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am fluent in Spanish, and also received a bachelor's degree in Spanish and Translation studies. I have worked with a large variety of clients from pre-teens to adults, and have experience working in both private practices and school settings. My preferred counseling style is to meet you where you’re at as I understand that everyone's struggle is unique, and there is no "one size fits all" approach to therapy.
I have experience working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, trauma, grief/bereavement, OCD, sexual abuse, and substance abuse.
I am a mental health counselor(MHC-LP). I graduated from Adelphi University with my master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am fluent in Spanish, and also received a bachelor's degree in Spanish and Translation studies. I have worked with a large variety of clients from pre-teens to adults, and have experience working in both private practices and school settings. My preferred counseling style is to meet you where you’re at as I understand that everyone's struggle is unique, and there is no "one size fits all" approach to therapy.
(631) 801-0961 View (631) 801-0961
Photo of Caryl Brent, LMHC, Counselor
Caryl Brent
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Commack, NY 11725  (Online Only)
I have been trained in a variety of different approaches that address women's issues, depression, concerns about substance use/abuse, chronic pain, trauma and boundary issues.
Do you ever feel irrelevant or disconnected from others you care about? Do you feel overwhelmed with too much to do, or not involved enough with things you enjoy doing? Do you ever feel isolated or empty? Do you stay in relationships too long or not long enough? Do you have difficulty asking for what you want or what you need? Do you ever feel like you are constantly getting more than you are getting? Do you want to make some changes but feel stuck? "Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced". James Baldwin
I have been trained in a variety of different approaches that address women's issues, depression, concerns about substance use/abuse, chronic pain, trauma and boundary issues.
Do you ever feel irrelevant or disconnected from others you care about? Do you feel overwhelmed with too much to do, or not involved enough with things you enjoy doing? Do you ever feel isolated or empty? Do you stay in relationships too long or not long enough? Do you have difficulty asking for what you want or what you need? Do you ever feel like you are constantly getting more than you are getting? Do you want to make some changes but feel stuck? "Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced". James Baldwin
(347) 647-2454 View (347) 647-2454
Photo of Stephanie D. Kilgannon, MS, LMHC, CASACAC, CAMS-II, Counselor
Stephanie D. Kilgannon
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CASACAC, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Commack, NY 11725
I have experience working with adults and couples in substance use, community residence and private practice settings.
Seeking therapy or counseling can be overwhelming. But reaching out for support in life can also lead to positive change. Counseling is essentially geared towards reducing your symptoms of distress while building your capability to handle life's inevitable demands and anxieties. No one can change what they have experienced in the past nor change things out of their control. However, every individual can work towards a better understanding of themselves while learning coping strategies for managing challenge and change.
I have experience working with adults and couples in substance use, community residence and private practice settings.
Seeking therapy or counseling can be overwhelming. But reaching out for support in life can also lead to positive change. Counseling is essentially geared towards reducing your symptoms of distress while building your capability to handle life's inevitable demands and anxieties. No one can change what they have experienced in the past nor change things out of their control. However, every individual can work towards a better understanding of themselves while learning coping strategies for managing challenge and change.
(516) 550-0734 View (516) 550-0734
Photo of Cody Pickrodt, LMHC
Cody Pickrodt
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Commack, NY 11725  (Online Only)
I specialize in personality disorders, anger management, resilience building, adjustments/transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, sleep/insomnia, career counseling/vocational rehabilitation, relationships/dating, the addiction recovery process and smoking cessation.
My approach is person centered and psychodynamic. I use evidence-based therapeutic practices with a foundation in existential therapy. Together, we can uncover the "why," so you may live with any "how."
I specialize in personality disorders, anger management, resilience building, adjustments/transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, sleep/insomnia, career counseling/vocational rehabilitation, relationships/dating, the addiction recovery process and smoking cessation.
My approach is person centered and psychodynamic. I use evidence-based therapeutic practices with a foundation in existential therapy. Together, we can uncover the "why," so you may live with any "how."
(631) 203-0397 View (631) 203-0397
Photo of Sean Tendler - North Star Mental Health Counseling Services, LMHC, Counselor
North Star Mental Health Counseling Services
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Commack, NY 11725
At North Star, we help and empower adults, adolescents, and children facing stressful life challenges. Our expertise spans anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, OCD, PTSD, relationship issues, and difficulties with ADHD, procrastination, and motivation. Our diverse and experienced team of over 30 therapists provides personalized in-person care in Commack and Jericho. We also offer comprehensive telehealth services throughout New York State. This ensures the perfect therapeutic match to light your path to wellness. We tailor our approaches to meet your unique needs, helping you achieve personal breakthroughs and lasting wellbeing.
At North Star, we help and empower adults, adolescents, and children facing stressful life challenges. Our expertise spans anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, OCD, PTSD, relationship issues, and difficulties with ADHD, procrastination, and motivation. Our diverse and experienced team of over 30 therapists provides personalized in-person care in Commack and Jericho. We also offer comprehensive telehealth services throughout New York State. This ensures the perfect therapeutic match to light your path to wellness. We tailor our approaches to meet your unique needs, helping you achieve personal breakthroughs and lasting wellbeing.
(631) 557-0675 View (631) 557-0675
Photo of Kenny Carroll, LMHC, Counselor
Kenny Carroll
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Commack, NY 11725
I also have extensive experience with addiction, BPD, and trauma/PTSD.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges? Seeking a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore your feelings and find effective strategies? I offer personalized therapy using CBT, DBT, MI, and Person-Centered Therapy to help you build resilience and manage life's difficulties. With experience across various age groups and backgrounds, including the LGBTQ+ community, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, respectful support tailored to your unique needs.
I also have extensive experience with addiction, BPD, and trauma/PTSD.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges? Seeking a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore your feelings and find effective strategies? I offer personalized therapy using CBT, DBT, MI, and Person-Centered Therapy to help you build resilience and manage life's difficulties. With experience across various age groups and backgrounds, including the LGBTQ+ community, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, respectful support tailored to your unique needs.
(631) 614-6593 View (631) 614-6593
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.