Addiction Therapists in Ardmore, PA

Photo of Makalay Samuella Tarawally - Angel Counseling LLC at angelcounselingllc.com, LPC, MA, MPH, ICADC, DBT,SAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angel Counseling LLC at angelcounselingllc.com
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, MPH, ICADC, DBT,SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ardmore, PA 19003  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Substance Abuse Professional with DoT and DBT certified therapist. I hold a master's degree in Public Health and Counseling Psychology . I am interested in treating a wide array of issues, including depression, anxiety, and substance-related disorder and Personality Disorder. I am also specialized in group and individual therapy. As a mental health therapist, I am passionate about helping my patients foster self-awareness and gain insight into their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Substance Abuse Professional with DoT and DBT certified therapist. I hold a master's degree in Public Health and Counseling Psychology . I am interested in treating a wide array of issues, including depression, anxiety, and substance-related disorder and Personality Disorder. I am also specialized in group and individual therapy. As a mental health therapist, I am passionate about helping my patients foster self-awareness and gain insight into their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
(484) 573-7064 View (484) 573-7064
Photo of David Yusko, PsyD, Psychologist
David Yusko
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ardmore, PA 19003
At Rutgers I learned state of the art treatments for substance abuse and was trained in sports psychology by faculty working with professional athletes.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and Co-Founder of the Center for Anxiety & Behavior Therapy which specializes in providing compassionate evidence-based treatment for anxiety disorders including OCD, PTSD, social anxiety, generalized anxiety, panic, and phobias. I also treat substance use disorders and work with athletes seeking to enhance performance through the mental aspect of competition. My work is largely guided by cognitive behavioral therapy principles, but I often incorporate aspects of mindfulness and psychodynamic theory. I seek to help clients return to the meaningful parts of their lives through a collaborative, goal-oriented, and practical approach.
At Rutgers I learned state of the art treatments for substance abuse and was trained in sports psychology by faculty working with professional athletes.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and Co-Founder of the Center for Anxiety & Behavior Therapy which specializes in providing compassionate evidence-based treatment for anxiety disorders including OCD, PTSD, social anxiety, generalized anxiety, panic, and phobias. I also treat substance use disorders and work with athletes seeking to enhance performance through the mental aspect of competition. My work is largely guided by cognitive behavioral therapy principles, but I often incorporate aspects of mindfulness and psychodynamic theory. I seek to help clients return to the meaningful parts of their lives through a collaborative, goal-oriented, and practical approach.
(610) 850-0319 View (610) 850-0319
Photo of Lisa Silk - Silk Counseling Group, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Silk Counseling Group, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ardmore, PA 19003
Our personal experience coupled with extensive education gives us a unique advantage to understand the true nature of addiction.
We are accepting new clients! SCG is a small group practice, we help our clients live their best life. We are honored to support you in gaining relief from anxiety, depression, loneliness, feeling stuck, and afraid. The journey to wellness is not easy, but worth everything. We are located on the Main Line in Haverford. Our approach is compassionate with a solution-focused and practical approach. Additionally, much of our work with clients includes developing coping strategies to deal with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and separation and divorce.
Our personal experience coupled with extensive education gives us a unique advantage to understand the true nature of addiction.
We are accepting new clients! SCG is a small group practice, we help our clients live their best life. We are honored to support you in gaining relief from anxiety, depression, loneliness, feeling stuck, and afraid. The journey to wellness is not easy, but worth everything. We are located on the Main Line in Haverford. Our approach is compassionate with a solution-focused and practical approach. Additionally, much of our work with clients includes developing coping strategies to deal with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and separation and divorce.
(610) 572-2361 View (610) 572-2361
Photo of Perry Liss, Esq, MA
Perry Liss
Esq, MA
Verified Verified
Ardmore, PA 19003
I gave up my career as a successful attorney to dedicate my life to helping people overcome the addiction/mental health issues I have personally battled.
While I counsel clients on all mental health related issues, my expertise lies in recovery from addiction/alcoholism, and coping with anxiety, stress & depression. If your goal is to stop drinking/using drugs, to cope with or support a loved one who suffers from addiction/alcoholism, or to cope with anxiety, stress and depression, I can absolutely help you. I know how difficult these issues are, and how important it is to find the right therapist to help you navigate them. I have lived with and overcome issues with addiction, anxiety, and depression. You want someone who personally understands what it's like, and I definitely do.
I gave up my career as a successful attorney to dedicate my life to helping people overcome the addiction/mental health issues I have personally battled.
While I counsel clients on all mental health related issues, my expertise lies in recovery from addiction/alcoholism, and coping with anxiety, stress & depression. If your goal is to stop drinking/using drugs, to cope with or support a loved one who suffers from addiction/alcoholism, or to cope with anxiety, stress and depression, I can absolutely help you. I know how difficult these issues are, and how important it is to find the right therapist to help you navigate them. I have lived with and overcome issues with addiction, anxiety, and depression. You want someone who personally understands what it's like, and I definitely do.
(267) 668-2021 View (267) 668-2021
Photo of Robia Smith-Herman, MSS, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robia Smith-Herman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LSW
Verified Verified
Ardmore, PA 19003
Clinical experience at NET and The Renfrew Center has facilitated a proficiency for the treatment of substance use disorders in adolescent and adult males and females and eating disorders in adolescent and adult females respectfully.
My ideal client is an individual who is motivated to improve their overall quality of life. I have a passion for working with individuals who struggle with trauma and PTSD, substance abuse and disordered eating. I believe that a good rapport is key in treatment of these issues and aim to build a positive working therapeutic relationship.
Clinical experience at NET and The Renfrew Center has facilitated a proficiency for the treatment of substance use disorders in adolescent and adult males and females and eating disorders in adolescent and adult females respectfully.
My ideal client is an individual who is motivated to improve their overall quality of life. I have a passion for working with individuals who struggle with trauma and PTSD, substance abuse and disordered eating. I believe that a good rapport is key in treatment of these issues and aim to build a positive working therapeutic relationship.
(301) 880-4050 View (301) 880-4050
Photo of Melissa C Harrison, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa C Harrison
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Ardmore, PA 19003
I have helped many clients with the following: emotional eating, significant guilt after eating or not exercising, exercise addiction, poor self esteem or body image, above average desire to have a perfect body, perfectionism, sports anxiety, PCOS, anorexia, bulimia,binge eating, depressed mood, inability to control worry, and anxiety disorders.
I strive to provide efficient and effective treatment to meet the needs of each individual client while ensuring a warm, safe, and friendly environment. In addition to an inviting environment and a strong focus on outcomes, I value a collaborative approach and a strong relationship in therapy. Although I am the expert in helping people, you are the expert on you. This philosophy allows the client to feel responsible for his or her own successes and stay accountable for progress. My therapy is goal focused, fosters change, empirically supported, supportive, and incorporates an overall goal to attain balance and wellness.
I have helped many clients with the following: emotional eating, significant guilt after eating or not exercising, exercise addiction, poor self esteem or body image, above average desire to have a perfect body, perfectionism, sports anxiety, PCOS, anorexia, bulimia,binge eating, depressed mood, inability to control worry, and anxiety disorders.
I strive to provide efficient and effective treatment to meet the needs of each individual client while ensuring a warm, safe, and friendly environment. In addition to an inviting environment and a strong focus on outcomes, I value a collaborative approach and a strong relationship in therapy. Although I am the expert in helping people, you are the expert on you. This philosophy allows the client to feel responsible for his or her own successes and stay accountable for progress. My therapy is goal focused, fosters change, empirically supported, supportive, and incorporates an overall goal to attain balance and wellness.
(908) 574-4913 View (908) 574-4913
Photo of Mary Salotto, PsyD, Psychologist
Mary Salotto
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ardmore, PA 19003  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experiences in clinical settings ranging from schools to substance use treatment & evaluation of severe mental illness.
I believe that therapy should be a partnership and strive to create a warm environment where trust can grow and people can thrive. I hope to help each of my clients identify what makes them their best selves and learn how to leverage those strengths. By finding ways to work with your unique brain instead of against it, we can create individualized strategies that are both practical and effective for you and your ADHD. As a person with ADHD myself, I also know that its effects often reach outside of productivity and organization into psychological and emotional wellbeing.
I have experiences in clinical settings ranging from schools to substance use treatment & evaluation of severe mental illness.
I believe that therapy should be a partnership and strive to create a warm environment where trust can grow and people can thrive. I hope to help each of my clients identify what makes them their best selves and learn how to leverage those strengths. By finding ways to work with your unique brain instead of against it, we can create individualized strategies that are both practical and effective for you and your ADHD. As a person with ADHD myself, I also know that its effects often reach outside of productivity and organization into psychological and emotional wellbeing.
(610) 724-7010 View (610) 724-7010
Photo of Christina Mitrofanis, PsyD, MEd, Psychologist
Christina Mitrofanis
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ardmore, PA 19003  (Online Only)
I’ve worked with clients to manage ADHD, depression, anxiety, substance use, interpersonal issues and other life stressors.
Having ADHD can often feel like a daily battle with yourself to accomplish tasks, maintain relationships, and attend to your own needs, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Learning how to work with, rather than against, your ADHD can be a transformative experience, and I would be honored to work with you through this journey. Together in therapy, we can work to tackle the challenges of ADHD while also bolstering your natural strengths and coming into and honoring your most authentic self. I work to create a therapeutic space that is constructive, creative, and above all compassionate. I can’t wait to welcome you in.
I’ve worked with clients to manage ADHD, depression, anxiety, substance use, interpersonal issues and other life stressors.
Having ADHD can often feel like a daily battle with yourself to accomplish tasks, maintain relationships, and attend to your own needs, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Learning how to work with, rather than against, your ADHD can be a transformative experience, and I would be honored to work with you through this journey. Together in therapy, we can work to tackle the challenges of ADHD while also bolstering your natural strengths and coming into and honoring your most authentic self. I work to create a therapeutic space that is constructive, creative, and above all compassionate. I can’t wait to welcome you in.
(610) 719-3145 View (610) 719-3145
Photo of David Joseph Meyer, MSS, LCSW, E-RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Joseph Meyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, E-RYT
Verified Verified
Ardmore, PA 19003
My name is David, and I strive to support people on their healing journeys. Do you find yourself battling a harsh inner critic? Is depression and anxiety dominating your life? Have you lost a sense of meaning, purpose, or dignity due to relational trauma and addiction? I have been a dedicated figure in the wellness field since 2015, working as a yoga and mindfulness teacher and as a peer recovery coach. In 2020, I became a licensed psychotherapist, combining insights from my personal healing journey with my extensive training in yoga and therapy to guide others toward wholeness.
My name is David, and I strive to support people on their healing journeys. Do you find yourself battling a harsh inner critic? Is depression and anxiety dominating your life? Have you lost a sense of meaning, purpose, or dignity due to relational trauma and addiction? I have been a dedicated figure in the wellness field since 2015, working as a yoga and mindfulness teacher and as a peer recovery coach. In 2020, I became a licensed psychotherapist, combining insights from my personal healing journey with my extensive training in yoga and therapy to guide others toward wholeness.
(610) 553-3527 View (610) 553-3527
Photo of Melisa O. Furman, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melisa O. Furman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ardmore, PA 19003  (Online Only)
Many find themselves at a point in their lives where external support is necessary to navigate life's challenges. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am that support for my clients.I create a safe space for my clients to explore their deep feelings, develop a plan, learn healthy coping strategies and increase self-confidence. I am experienced in facilitating conversations around divorce and separation with children and teenagers. I specialize in behavioral change and healing inter-personal relationships. I work with many individuals, families and youth experiencing ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction and Post Traumatic Stress.
Many find themselves at a point in their lives where external support is necessary to navigate life's challenges. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am that support for my clients.I create a safe space for my clients to explore their deep feelings, develop a plan, learn healthy coping strategies and increase self-confidence. I am experienced in facilitating conversations around divorce and separation with children and teenagers. I specialize in behavioral change and healing inter-personal relationships. I work with many individuals, families and youth experiencing ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Addiction and Post Traumatic Stress.
(484) 464-0296 View (484) 464-0296
Photo of Michael C Reichert, PhD, Psychologist
Michael C Reichert
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ardmore, PA 19003  (Online Only)
I have worked with individuals, couples and families in a wide variety of settings for over 25 years. During this time, I have developed a number of particular specialties, including adolescents and families, boys and men, and addiction treatment. Typically, I offer a 3-session initial evaluation, at the end of which I make treatment recommendations. If the recommendation is to continue treatment in my practice, I can work in a variety of modes - individual, couples and family - and emphasize strategies that mobilize relationships and problem solving.
I have worked with individuals, couples and families in a wide variety of settings for over 25 years. During this time, I have developed a number of particular specialties, including adolescents and families, boys and men, and addiction treatment. Typically, I offer a 3-session initial evaluation, at the end of which I make treatment recommendations. If the recommendation is to continue treatment in my practice, I can work in a variety of modes - individual, couples and family - and emphasize strategies that mobilize relationships and problem solving.
(610) 667-9503 View (610) 667-9503
Photo of Caroline S Robboy - The Center for Growth/Sex Therapy in Philadelphia, CAS, MSW, ACSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Center for Growth/Sex Therapy in Philadelphia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CAS, MSW, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ardmore, PA 19003
Alex Caroline Robboy, CAS, MSW, ACSW, LCSW is the founder of the Center for Growth Inc, a 30 + therapist group practice in 4 states. She has 20+ years of experience working with children and adults who are struggling to overcome sexual disorders, postpartum depression, grief, panic, chronic pain, depression, anger, anxiety, shame. trauma, tourettes and addiction. She focuses on individuals, couples and family therapy. Therapists at Alex's practice are able to see clients for as low as 50$. You cam self schedule online at her website.
Alex Caroline Robboy, CAS, MSW, ACSW, LCSW is the founder of the Center for Growth Inc, a 30 + therapist group practice in 4 states. She has 20+ years of experience working with children and adults who are struggling to overcome sexual disorders, postpartum depression, grief, panic, chronic pain, depression, anger, anxiety, shame. trauma, tourettes and addiction. She focuses on individuals, couples and family therapy. Therapists at Alex's practice are able to see clients for as low as 50$. You cam self schedule online at her website.
(267) 888-4162 View (267) 888-4162
Photo of Nancy Barton, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nancy Barton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Ardmore, PA 19003
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with many years experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, guilt, shame and grief.
Life transitions can be tough. Whether you are a young adult transitioning to life on your own, a parent whose child is exerting their independence in the teen years, relationship issues in marriage, divorce, or caring for aging parents; life throws us all curve balls from time to time that can leave us feeling paralyzed, and not knowing what to do or how to respond. I can help you process your situation and give you the confidence to move forward with courage and dignity.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with many years experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, guilt, shame and grief.
Life transitions can be tough. Whether you are a young adult transitioning to life on your own, a parent whose child is exerting their independence in the teen years, relationship issues in marriage, divorce, or caring for aging parents; life throws us all curve balls from time to time that can leave us feeling paralyzed, and not knowing what to do or how to respond. I can help you process your situation and give you the confidence to move forward with courage and dignity.
(484) 406-3166 View (484) 406-3166
Photo of Suzanne Carlin, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Suzanne Carlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Ardmore, PA 19003
There is nothing more important than the relationships we have with both ourselves and others! Without a healthy feeling of belonging and connection to others, problems will exist. Be it parent/child conflicts, problems at school, adolescent issues, marital/premarital, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and/or issues with life transitions, I can help you! .
There is nothing more important than the relationships we have with both ourselves and others! Without a healthy feeling of belonging and connection to others, problems will exist. Be it parent/child conflicts, problems at school, adolescent issues, marital/premarital, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, and/or issues with life transitions, I can help you! .
(610) 624-8338 View (610) 624-8338
Photo of Chris J Malanga, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chris J Malanga
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ardmore, PA 19003
I support individuals and families navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use, professional challenges, and family issues.
Are you feeling like the happiness, peace of mind, and professional success which you desire is consistently out of your grasp? My typical client knows that something in their life is not working, and they are ready to seek out meaningful change. Making the first step to reach out and pursue support is often the most difficult step. The good news is that psychotherapy and professional coaching are powerful tools for creating lasting change; for those ready to make the leap.
I support individuals and families navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, substance use, professional challenges, and family issues.
Are you feeling like the happiness, peace of mind, and professional success which you desire is consistently out of your grasp? My typical client knows that something in their life is not working, and they are ready to seek out meaningful change. Making the first step to reach out and pursue support is often the most difficult step. The good news is that psychotherapy and professional coaching are powerful tools for creating lasting change; for those ready to make the leap.
(484) 573-6395 View (484) 573-6395
Photo of Mark Edward Walthofer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mark Edward Walthofer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ardmore, PA 19003
Specializing in, depression, anxiety addiction, grief and addiction, I help individuals navigate complex emotional landscapes.
In today's world, individuals and families often face formidable challenges. As an experienced LCSW, I harness the power of collaboration to navigate these hurdles. For an adult, it might be their spouse. When I treat children, their parents, primary care providers, and the school system all contribute to an exhaustive needs assessment. From this rich tapestry, we weave a bespoke treatment plan that accentuates your inherent positives. With our partnership, I hope we can empower your journey toward becoming your best "you."
Specializing in, depression, anxiety addiction, grief and addiction, I help individuals navigate complex emotional landscapes.
In today's world, individuals and families often face formidable challenges. As an experienced LCSW, I harness the power of collaboration to navigate these hurdles. For an adult, it might be their spouse. When I treat children, their parents, primary care providers, and the school system all contribute to an exhaustive needs assessment. From this rich tapestry, we weave a bespoke treatment plan that accentuates your inherent positives. With our partnership, I hope we can empower your journey toward becoming your best "you."
(267) 627-6298 View (267) 627-6298
Photo of Patrick Smith, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patrick Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ardmore, PA 19003  (Online Only)
In my experience, all of us will ultimately experience problems that seem to overwhelm our normal abilities to cope. Life is hard and we need outlets to process those difficult times. I’ve worked with a variety of clients that have experienced anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, codependency, PTSD, substance abuse/ addiction, anger management, marital/relationship issues, grief and loss, trauma & abuse, stress management and OCD. All of my sessions are currently virtual.
In my experience, all of us will ultimately experience problems that seem to overwhelm our normal abilities to cope. Life is hard and we need outlets to process those difficult times. I’ve worked with a variety of clients that have experienced anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, codependency, PTSD, substance abuse/ addiction, anger management, marital/relationship issues, grief and loss, trauma & abuse, stress management and OCD. All of my sessions are currently virtual.
(570) 623-1659 View (570) 623-1659
Photo of Robert M Pomerantz, PhD, Psychologist
Robert M Pomerantz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ardmore, PA 19003
In my psychology practice I help people address problems of depression, anxiety, coping with stress, adjusting to difficult life changes or events, self-esteem issues, relationship/marital concerns, and work related difficulties. I have a clinical specialty in assessing and treating problems related to drug and alcohol use.
In my psychology practice I help people address problems of depression, anxiety, coping with stress, adjusting to difficult life changes or events, self-esteem issues, relationship/marital concerns, and work related difficulties. I have a clinical specialty in assessing and treating problems related to drug and alcohol use.
(610) 664-8519 View (610) 664-8519
Photo of Sharon Gera, MSS, LCSW, CETII, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon Gera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, CETII
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ardmore, PA 19003
I focus on working with attachment issues, grief and loss, trauma and addictions.
Now you realize you need a change in your life. You might have a direction or a vision, though not sure about the how. When you find it difficult to let go of the past, when the past keeps being a significant part of your present, it is time to seek professional help. Together, we can work through issues of grief, loss or painful and traumatic events in an atmosphere of respect, caring and safety. We will collaborate to understand and help you bring that change. I specialize in experiential therapy, Psychodrama and EMDR - integrative and effective therapies researched and recommended for the treatment a wide range of difficulties.
I focus on working with attachment issues, grief and loss, trauma and addictions.
Now you realize you need a change in your life. You might have a direction or a vision, though not sure about the how. When you find it difficult to let go of the past, when the past keeps being a significant part of your present, it is time to seek professional help. Together, we can work through issues of grief, loss or painful and traumatic events in an atmosphere of respect, caring and safety. We will collaborate to understand and help you bring that change. I specialize in experiential therapy, Psychodrama and EMDR - integrative and effective therapies researched and recommended for the treatment a wide range of difficulties.
(240) 802-8189 View (240) 802-8189
Photo of Leon Gellert, PsyD, Psychologist
Leon Gellert
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ardmore, PA 19003
Discussing our concerns in therapy can be daunting, so my goal is to create a space where clients can be comfortable enough to engage with uncomfortable thoughts, emotions, and experiences. In my career I have worked at University Counseling Centers including NYU, Drexel, and SJU, and also with Veterans at the Brooklyn VA. Through these experiences I have worked with individuals from varied backgrounds who have come to work on a range of issues ranging from managing the difficulties of growing independence to the significant impacts of past traumatic experiences.
Discussing our concerns in therapy can be daunting, so my goal is to create a space where clients can be comfortable enough to engage with uncomfortable thoughts, emotions, and experiences. In my career I have worked at University Counseling Centers including NYU, Drexel, and SJU, and also with Veterans at the Brooklyn VA. Through these experiences I have worked with individuals from varied backgrounds who have come to work on a range of issues ranging from managing the difficulties of growing independence to the significant impacts of past traumatic experiences.
(484) 559-7545 View (484) 559-7545
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.