Addiction Therapists in McKeesport, PA
![Photo of Philicia A Barbieri - Elevate Wellness and Recovery , LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0d30243-b286-4ea9-bb47-8ee25ec9ab07/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elevate Wellness and Recovery
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
McKeesport, PA 15132
Welcome, I am glad you are here! I am a licensed Therapist with 10+ years of experience. I specialize in a mental health and addiction issues. I have worked in a variety of settings including licensed substance use treatment centers, outpatient community mental health, and community based mental health treatment. I use an integrative approach of cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, skill building . I am also trained in EMDR. I work with each person to set goals, either short term or long term, and then help them find their path to achieving those goals.
Welcome, I am glad you are here! I am a licensed Therapist with 10+ years of experience. I specialize in a mental health and addiction issues. I have worked in a variety of settings including licensed substance use treatment centers, outpatient community mental health, and community based mental health treatment. I use an integrative approach of cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, skill building . I am also trained in EMDR. I work with each person to set goals, either short term or long term, and then help them find their path to achieving those goals.
![Photo of Seema Chaubey, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4094ddda-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Seema Chaubey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McKeesport, PA 15133 (Online Only)
As a counselor I have 20+ years of experience working with adults and children. I treat my clients in a compassionate and professional manner and my approach is usually eclectic as I choose them according to the needs of my client. Techniques used by me are CBT, REBT, ACT, Motivational, Gestalt approach, meditation, relaxation and guided imagery. My expertise is in mood disorders such as depression, bipolar disorders, and on anxiety disorders such as OCD, panic disorder, and phobias. Anger management in relationships and marriage and relationship therapy are also my interest areas as well as resolution of trauma issues, whether acute or chronic. I have and continue to treat dually diagnosed substance abuse clients.
As a counselor I have 20+ years of experience working with adults and children. I treat my clients in a compassionate and professional manner and my approach is usually eclectic as I choose them according to the needs of my client. Techniques used by me are CBT, REBT, ACT, Motivational, Gestalt approach, meditation, relaxation and guided imagery. My expertise is in mood disorders such as depression, bipolar disorders, and on anxiety disorders such as OCD, panic disorder, and phobias. Anger management in relationships and marriage and relationship therapy are also my interest areas as well as resolution of trauma issues, whether acute or chronic. I have and continue to treat dually diagnosed substance abuse clients.
![Photo of Melanie Murdock, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5116688c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Melanie Murdock
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
McKeesport, PA 15132
I offer services to those looking to explore personal growth, change and support. I understand that certain stressors can become attached to our daily life responsibilities or interests and I want to help you find ways to overcome the obstacles you feel are present in your life. It takes great courage to be open to the process of therapy and I am willing to listen to your needs and create a plan with you. My therapeutic approach is one that allows you to organize your thoughts and develop insightful ways to cope with life adjustments.
I offer services to those looking to explore personal growth, change and support. I understand that certain stressors can become attached to our daily life responsibilities or interests and I want to help you find ways to overcome the obstacles you feel are present in your life. It takes great courage to be open to the process of therapy and I am willing to listen to your needs and create a plan with you. My therapeutic approach is one that allows you to organize your thoughts and develop insightful ways to cope with life adjustments.
![Photo of Richard Hoffman - Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA, PhD, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54a08b38-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKeesport, PA 15133
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website at www.ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website at www.ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
![Photo of Nancy A. Hamilton, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf6b00e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
Nancy A. Hamilton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKeesport, PA 15132
I treat adult clients with a range of concerns, including life adjustments, mood disorders, trauma history, anxiety, personality disorders, stress, dual diagnosis (MH/D&A), dual diagnosis (MH/ID), as well as individuals who wish to maximize their full potential. The nature of the therapeutic relationship is the bedrock from which trust develops and is the key to improve upon all other relationships, including with one's self. I assist individuals to discover and build upon inner strengths, skills, and abilities to better adapt to the challenges that a fulfilling life presents.
I treat adult clients with a range of concerns, including life adjustments, mood disorders, trauma history, anxiety, personality disorders, stress, dual diagnosis (MH/D&A), dual diagnosis (MH/ID), as well as individuals who wish to maximize their full potential. The nature of the therapeutic relationship is the bedrock from which trust develops and is the key to improve upon all other relationships, including with one's self. I assist individuals to discover and build upon inner strengths, skills, and abilities to better adapt to the challenges that a fulfilling life presents.
![Photo of Kristie Harmon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96c39fc0-1b8c-41d8-9a3d-4d859d9a288a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristie Harmon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKeesport, PA 15132 (Online Only)
Hi there, have you been feeling stuck? Just going through the day to day motions? Looking to change some things up? Let’s get started! First step is scheduling your initial appointment. I am here to help you navigate into a better state of mind. A little about me, I live a very active and healthy lifestyle and truly love motivating others. I also am diagnosed with Celiac disease, therefore I am quite the gluten free expert! I enjoy helping others tap into new coping skills. I love animals and have a big fluffy golden retriever. His name is Gus and from time to time crashes in to say hi during sessions.
Hi there, have you been feeling stuck? Just going through the day to day motions? Looking to change some things up? Let’s get started! First step is scheduling your initial appointment. I am here to help you navigate into a better state of mind. A little about me, I live a very active and healthy lifestyle and truly love motivating others. I also am diagnosed with Celiac disease, therefore I am quite the gluten free expert! I enjoy helping others tap into new coping skills. I love animals and have a big fluffy golden retriever. His name is Gus and from time to time crashes in to say hi during sessions.
![Photo of Jessi Mayfield, MS, LPC, CAADC, SAP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43e92d59-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessi Mayfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CAADC, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKeesport, PA 15132
My name is Jessi Mayfield and I am a licensed professional counselor with 12 years of experience in the mental health and drug and alcohol field. My approach to therapy is one that is strength based, holistic and down to earth. I will guide clients to draw from experiences as they discover and explore their goals for personal change and growth.
My name is Jessi Mayfield and I am a licensed professional counselor with 12 years of experience in the mental health and drug and alcohol field. My approach to therapy is one that is strength based, holistic and down to earth. I will guide clients to draw from experiences as they discover and explore their goals for personal change and growth.
![Photo of Madelena Tran - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/712b6b32-99d8-44b3-a7e5-58ce543fbe9a/1/320x400.png)
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
McKeesport, PA 15132 (Online Only)
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
![Photo of Michelle Gressem - Just A Little Talk Integrated Services LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8a5f16f-1e55-402f-81f7-bf86d503c3dd/3/320x400.jpeg)
Just A Little Talk Integrated Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McKeesport, PA 15132
Through trust, honesty and confidentiality, my goal is to empower individuals with tools to use their inner strength to overcome those stumbling blocks within. I aim to develop self sufficiency, sustainability, and resiliency to allow individuals to meet the challenges of life well after engaging with this agency.
Through trust, honesty and confidentiality, my goal is to empower individuals with tools to use their inner strength to overcome those stumbling blocks within. I aim to develop self sufficiency, sustainability, and resiliency to allow individuals to meet the challenges of life well after engaging with this agency.
![Photo of Nicole Brooke - Sanderson Psychological, LLC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e01d6a6-eeab-4c1e-b57e-008508d5759b/1/320x400.png)
Sanderson Psychological is a mental health counseling practice that values quality of client care. We have multiple providers with varying interests and expertise in order to provide the best therapist/client fit. Our mission is to help our clients reconnect with themselves and to explore current or past experiences that have not yet been processed. We hope that through this journey, we will help our clients find deeper self-understanding and compassion.
Sanderson Psychological is a mental health counseling practice that values quality of client care. We have multiple providers with varying interests and expertise in order to provide the best therapist/client fit. Our mission is to help our clients reconnect with themselves and to explore current or past experiences that have not yet been processed. We hope that through this journey, we will help our clients find deeper self-understanding and compassion.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Elizabeth Simmons, LCSW , DBT-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb285159-86d6-4dec-9408-832a3489bab5/2/320x400.png)
Elizabeth Simmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , DBT-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
I specialize in trauma, personality disorders, addiction disorders, LGBTQIA+ issues, body positivity, HIV/AIDS, forensic issues, immigrant/refugee issues, women's issues, and civil rights/social justice.
I will teach you how to live fully in each moment, be unapologetically and authentically you, cope with stress more effectively, regulate your emotions, and improve your relationships with others. My ideal client is ready to work with me, as i support and guide them. I will work with you if you feel like you're doing mostly ok, and I will work with you if you feel like you are a mess and don't even know where to start. Healing is hard work, but it's so worthwhile and I'd love to help you get to the other side and be able to live your best life as your best, most authentic self.
I specialize in trauma, personality disorders, addiction disorders, LGBTQIA+ issues, body positivity, HIV/AIDS, forensic issues, immigrant/refugee issues, women's issues, and civil rights/social justice.
I will teach you how to live fully in each moment, be unapologetically and authentically you, cope with stress more effectively, regulate your emotions, and improve your relationships with others. My ideal client is ready to work with me, as i support and guide them. I will work with you if you feel like you're doing mostly ok, and I will work with you if you feel like you are a mess and don't even know where to start. Healing is hard work, but it's so worthwhile and I'd love to help you get to the other side and be able to live your best life as your best, most authentic self.
![Photo of Sharon Rosenthal, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5aec4dd-65db-4034-a3be-70045db0745d/3/320x400.jpeg)
I support people with anxiety, depression, anger, self-esteem issues, family conflict, substance use disorders, OCD, trauma and so much more.
My favorite part of helping people is collaborating with my clients. I work together with teens and adults to help them reach their goals, get some relief and learn new ways to cope. As a licensed professional counselor and a Nationally Certified Counselor, my approach is both nurturing and strengths-based. I believe that every person is unique and has the ability to cope and heal.
I support people with anxiety, depression, anger, self-esteem issues, family conflict, substance use disorders, OCD, trauma and so much more.
My favorite part of helping people is collaborating with my clients. I work together with teens and adults to help them reach their goals, get some relief and learn new ways to cope. As a licensed professional counselor and a Nationally Certified Counselor, my approach is both nurturing and strengths-based. I believe that every person is unique and has the ability to cope and heal.
![Photo of Connor Paoletti, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/619071aa-ff9d-4dd9-a931-387e8220ca85/2/320x400.jpeg)
In treating PTSD, depression, anxiety, addiction, personality disorders, and self-esteem issues, I strive to utilize a trauma-informed perspective.
As intimidating as therapy may seem, it is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding processes an individual can go through. I have such a deep appreciation for my clients as they show the willingness and commitment to improving their well-being. I believe that each client has their own unique set of strengths and through our collaborative efforts, will learn how to harness them to overcome their struggles. I work with individuals ranging from late adolescence to late adulthood. Additionally, I have experience with athletic populations both in treatment and mentoring.
In treating PTSD, depression, anxiety, addiction, personality disorders, and self-esteem issues, I strive to utilize a trauma-informed perspective.
As intimidating as therapy may seem, it is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding processes an individual can go through. I have such a deep appreciation for my clients as they show the willingness and commitment to improving their well-being. I believe that each client has their own unique set of strengths and through our collaborative efforts, will learn how to harness them to overcome their struggles. I work with individuals ranging from late adolescence to late adulthood. Additionally, I have experience with athletic populations both in treatment and mentoring.
![Photo of Christopher P Smith, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c14eb85-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher P Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Each of us each and every day is confronted with significant life difficulties. We can become overwhelmed and unable to cope with what appears to be insurmountable problems. My approach to counseling and consultation is that of a life coach assisting and supporting each person in learning new ways to deal with life difficulties and reach ones full potential. Most of us can benefit from a coach from time to time to help us deal with issues such as: relationships, parenting, adolescent struggles, substance misuse, abuse or addiction, anxiety and depression. Tomorrow can be different than today!
Each of us each and every day is confronted with significant life difficulties. We can become overwhelmed and unable to cope with what appears to be insurmountable problems. My approach to counseling and consultation is that of a life coach assisting and supporting each person in learning new ways to deal with life difficulties and reach ones full potential. Most of us can benefit from a coach from time to time to help us deal with issues such as: relationships, parenting, adolescent struggles, substance misuse, abuse or addiction, anxiety and depression. Tomorrow can be different than today!
![Photo of Larissa Johnston, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f17c2fe-641b-49bd-a4d2-33f669178127/3/320x400.jpeg)
Larissa Johnston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monroeville, PA 15146
I am an LPC with experience providing therapy to clients with mental health problems, substance use disorders and also co-occurring disorders. My experience comes from a variety of diverse treatment settings including Shawnee Academy Residential Treatment Facility, Southwood Hospital, Southwestern Pennsylvania Human Services and Wesley Spectrum Services. I have delivered quality services across the lifespan. I am currently working with children and adults in individual, family, and couples counseling. I have addressed various issues in counseling such as bullying, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders.
I am an LPC with experience providing therapy to clients with mental health problems, substance use disorders and also co-occurring disorders. My experience comes from a variety of diverse treatment settings including Shawnee Academy Residential Treatment Facility, Southwood Hospital, Southwestern Pennsylvania Human Services and Wesley Spectrum Services. I have delivered quality services across the lifespan. I am currently working with children and adults in individual, family, and couples counseling. I have addressed various issues in counseling such as bullying, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders.
![Photo of Courtney Pfohlman, MS, LPC, NCC, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d10eea2a-db11-43b7-82f4-8d50e9470765/2/320x400.jpeg)
Courtney Pfohlman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15210 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes working with adults and couples. I am an EMDR trained clinician and have a history of working with clients in treatment facilities for substance use disorders, co-occuring disorders including trauma and anxiety, and completing forensic assessments.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes working with adults and couples. I am an EMDR trained clinician and have a history of working with clients in treatment facilities for substance use disorders, co-occuring disorders including trauma and anxiety, and completing forensic assessments.
![Photo of Frank Bienkowski - Frank Bienkowski at True to You Counseling, MSEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d680f9c5-8b74-4202-9012-7947c109c05e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Frank Bienkowski at True to You Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Though my perspective has been shaped primarily through the addiction model, I haven't limited myself to working solely with addicts and other members of addictive family systems.
Beginning in January 2024, my valued colleague, Jennifer Huffman and I are launching a combined practice that will be known as True to You. Each of us brings 20+ years of experience in the helping professions into this new venture. Both Jennifer and I have a background in addictions treatment, working together at Gateway Rehabilitation Center for 8 years. In the past decade we have both expanded our focus into other areas of therapeutic work. A common thread of purpose in our work has been to assist our clients in actively living from a more authentic sense of themselves. We hope to help you along on your path to being true to you.
Though my perspective has been shaped primarily through the addiction model, I haven't limited myself to working solely with addicts and other members of addictive family systems.
Beginning in January 2024, my valued colleague, Jennifer Huffman and I are launching a combined practice that will be known as True to You. Each of us brings 20+ years of experience in the helping professions into this new venture. Both Jennifer and I have a background in addictions treatment, working together at Gateway Rehabilitation Center for 8 years. In the past decade we have both expanded our focus into other areas of therapeutic work. A common thread of purpose in our work has been to assist our clients in actively living from a more authentic sense of themselves. We hope to help you along on your path to being true to you.
![Photo of Karen Garland, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/165408a7-a900-47ed-86e7-2cf28c4b31aa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) practicing in Pennsylvania. I received my masters in Clinical Mental Health from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. I am a doctorial candidate; working towards a PhD in Counseling Education and Supervision. I have been practicing for over 20 years with individuals with a substance use disorder in in-patient facilities, as well as, private practice working with children 8 years old through adults assisting them in becoming the best version of themself with skills to manage their future.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) practicing in Pennsylvania. I received my masters in Clinical Mental Health from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. I am a doctorial candidate; working towards a PhD in Counseling Education and Supervision. I have been practicing for over 20 years with individuals with a substance use disorder in in-patient facilities, as well as, private practice working with children 8 years old through adults assisting them in becoming the best version of themself with skills to manage their future.
![Photo of Debra M Whittam, LPC, MSEd, CCDPD, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afd744b7-5053-4f9e-a69c-7182cbeaf541/1/320x400.jpeg)
Debra M Whittam
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSEd, CCDPD, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Squirrel Hill, PA 15217
My ideal clients have issues with anxiety, depression, addiction and grief. Those who have little to no family support or friend network to rely on during difficult times. I work with people who struggle with alcoholism and drug abuse and repeated relapse. I also specialize in Adult Children of Alcoholism or Dysfunctional Homes. Many of my clients need help making life decisions especially between the ages of 16-26. Also those who are in transition either from divorce, from college to the workplace and single parents. Most everyone needs to know if they are going to be okay and if they are, how will they be okay.
My ideal clients have issues with anxiety, depression, addiction and grief. Those who have little to no family support or friend network to rely on during difficult times. I work with people who struggle with alcoholism and drug abuse and repeated relapse. I also specialize in Adult Children of Alcoholism or Dysfunctional Homes. Many of my clients need help making life decisions especially between the ages of 16-26. Also those who are in transition either from divorce, from college to the workplace and single parents. Most everyone needs to know if they are going to be okay and if they are, how will they be okay.
![Photo of Dorothy L Ingram - Peace and Perspective Counseling, LLC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c771f901-43eb-49e6-a7d2-15dae4716bdb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Peace and Perspective Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206 (Online Only)
Please note the location change! In these times of uncertainty, everyone could use a little support. As a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience in mental health and substance abuse treatment, I'm here to support you, whether you're looking to learn how to better manage stress, a chronic health condition, heal trauma, resolve family conflict, substance abuse/dependency, grief/loss, or manage a mood disorder. We partner together to tailor therapy that addresses your individual needs. Change is always possible and I'd be honored to be a part of your journey.
Please note the location change! In these times of uncertainty, everyone could use a little support. As a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years of experience in mental health and substance abuse treatment, I'm here to support you, whether you're looking to learn how to better manage stress, a chronic health condition, heal trauma, resolve family conflict, substance abuse/dependency, grief/loss, or manage a mood disorder. We partner together to tailor therapy that addresses your individual needs. Change is always possible and I'd be honored to be a part of your journey.
See more therapy options for McKeesport
Nearby Addiction Therapists Searches for McKeesport
- Elizabeth
- Irwin
- Jefferson Hills
- Monroeville
- North Huntingdon
- Penn Hills
- Pittsburgh
- South Park
- Squirrel Hill
- Swissvale
- West Mifflin
- White Oak
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.