Addiction Therapists in Bellevue, TN
![Photo of Sherrie E. McKinney - Sherrie E. McKinney, BS, LADC II, NCAC II, SAP, P4LIFE, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df07c310-9e29-430f-aa37-5ff88b817c44/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sherrie E. McKinney
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, BS, LADC II, NCAC II, SAP, P4LIFE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, TN 37221 (Online Only)
Addiction is progressive, incurable and can be fatal; relapse is common but not a requirement.
I work with clients who have some desire to move toward abstinence and/or recovery. Many of my clients have experienced negative consequences due to alcohol or drug use, including contact with the criminal justice system, loss of their driver's license, job, children, etc. I provide substance abuse counseling, drug education and an Alcohol and Drug Assessment that will satisfy most state requirements.
Addiction is progressive, incurable and can be fatal; relapse is common but not a requirement.
I work with clients who have some desire to move toward abstinence and/or recovery. Many of my clients have experienced negative consequences due to alcohol or drug use, including contact with the criminal justice system, loss of their driver's license, job, children, etc. I provide substance abuse counseling, drug education and an Alcohol and Drug Assessment that will satisfy most state requirements.
![Photo of Carissa Bartnick, LADC II, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8ff37be-7185-4c70-a860-b403cfcfa6e6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and welcome! I believe we all have inherent worth and value, but our perception of our worth can be impacted by trauma, stress, and mental health concerns. Life is often challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. I utilize attachment-focused, experiential, somatic, mindfulness, and other modalities to promote healing and realignment with our authentic selves. I specialize in helping people navigate trauma processing, substance use and addiction, eating disorders, codependency, anxiety, depression, relationship and intimacy issues, and family of origin concerns. I enjoy working with adults, teens, couples, and families.
Hello and welcome! I believe we all have inherent worth and value, but our perception of our worth can be impacted by trauma, stress, and mental health concerns. Life is often challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. I utilize attachment-focused, experiential, somatic, mindfulness, and other modalities to promote healing and realignment with our authentic selves. I specialize in helping people navigate trauma processing, substance use and addiction, eating disorders, codependency, anxiety, depression, relationship and intimacy issues, and family of origin concerns. I enjoy working with adults, teens, couples, and families.
Ubuntu Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, TN 37221
At Ubuntu Counseling & Wellness we believe that we are all hard wired for connection and have an innate desire to simply matter. Often times, the pain and fear we experience in relation to depression, anxiety, grief/loss, vulnerability, life transitions and more are indicative of feelings of disconnection. It is my desire to meet clients in that space of disconnection and offer a therapeutic relationship characteristic of empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness.
At Ubuntu Counseling & Wellness we believe that we are all hard wired for connection and have an innate desire to simply matter. Often times, the pain and fear we experience in relation to depression, anxiety, grief/loss, vulnerability, life transitions and more are indicative of feelings of disconnection. It is my desire to meet clients in that space of disconnection and offer a therapeutic relationship characteristic of empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness.
![Photo of Misha Laster, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9dae5e38-f565-4f29-a01d-0f2fa5eaccce/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be difficult at times with so many life transitions and still having to complete everyday tasks without support and encouragement. You are not alone in feeling the weight of trying to carry it all while experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout. Most importantly losing who you are deep down. Therapy can serve as a safe space to begin exploring who you are and what your needs are through creative expressions such as art or music and utilizing evidence-based interventions to help relieve the weight of those everyday stressors.
Life can be difficult at times with so many life transitions and still having to complete everyday tasks without support and encouragement. You are not alone in feeling the weight of trying to carry it all while experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout. Most importantly losing who you are deep down. Therapy can serve as a safe space to begin exploring who you are and what your needs are through creative expressions such as art or music and utilizing evidence-based interventions to help relieve the weight of those everyday stressors.
![Photo of Frances M Bledsoe, LCSW, CFAAMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5dbc8865-8629-4d10-aff0-d16bc2392da1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Frances M Bledsoe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CFAAMFT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, TN 37221
Life can be difficult at times. Perhaps you are wanting to make some changes in your life, or relationship. I believe that most of us CAN make the changes we deeply want to, particularly if we have a kind and knowledgeable advocate to that process. You may have reservations about asking for support. Know that when you do, you are bravely moving yourself forward to a better tomorrow. I strive to be a compassionate, trustworthy, and enthusiastic partner to my clients' growth processes.
Life can be difficult at times. Perhaps you are wanting to make some changes in your life, or relationship. I believe that most of us CAN make the changes we deeply want to, particularly if we have a kind and knowledgeable advocate to that process. You may have reservations about asking for support. Know that when you do, you are bravely moving yourself forward to a better tomorrow. I strive to be a compassionate, trustworthy, and enthusiastic partner to my clients' growth processes.
![Photo of Kari Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/726e6398-89d8-4003-8d6b-f9dfffaf2f98/2/320x400.jpeg)
We all experience times of stress, fear, loneliness and sadness. Worries and "what if's" can keep us up at night. But when these things start to affect our overall well being and daily functioning, help from a professional can be beneficial. I can work with you in these difficult times and provide support and tools necessary for healing.I hope you will find my office safe, welcoming, nonjudgemental and a place where you can talk through what's bothering you.
We all experience times of stress, fear, loneliness and sadness. Worries and "what if's" can keep us up at night. But when these things start to affect our overall well being and daily functioning, help from a professional can be beneficial. I can work with you in these difficult times and provide support and tools necessary for healing.I hope you will find my office safe, welcoming, nonjudgemental and a place where you can talk through what's bothering you.
![Photo of Catherine Stutzner, MS, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/503d8746-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Catherine is a unique therapist with a breadth of lifetime experience that makes her an ideal therapist for adolescents and teens through adulting and on into parenting phases of life. Her background as a coach, entrepreneur, non-profit leader, and mom are life experiences she can draw from to guide you through your journey towards healing. Using a person-centered approach to counseling, Catherine uses multiple evidence-based techniques tailored to each stage of life and the problems that arise. Life doesn't happen in a straight line. Sometimes we get stuck and need a little help getting back onto our path.
Catherine is a unique therapist with a breadth of lifetime experience that makes her an ideal therapist for adolescents and teens through adulting and on into parenting phases of life. Her background as a coach, entrepreneur, non-profit leader, and mom are life experiences she can draw from to guide you through your journey towards healing. Using a person-centered approach to counseling, Catherine uses multiple evidence-based techniques tailored to each stage of life and the problems that arise. Life doesn't happen in a straight line. Sometimes we get stuck and need a little help getting back onto our path.
![Photo of Nancy Speas, MA, MDiv, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0079e67d-cd70-428a-a010-4beff8fded1f/2/320x400.jpeg)
"I'm TIRED." I hear this all the time from my clients and/or their parents. Life has gotten so busy that we are flying from one thing to another without a chance to catch our breath. Maybe you are tired of fighting with your child to get them to behave. Maybe you are tired of losing track of things and time. Maybe you are tired of wondering if you made the right choice or if you'll ever be good enough. Maybe you are tired of being haunted by trauma. Maybe you are tired of taking care of everyone else without a break for yourself. Or maybe you're just plain tired. I get it! And there's good news: therapy can help.
"I'm TIRED." I hear this all the time from my clients and/or their parents. Life has gotten so busy that we are flying from one thing to another without a chance to catch our breath. Maybe you are tired of fighting with your child to get them to behave. Maybe you are tired of losing track of things and time. Maybe you are tired of wondering if you made the right choice or if you'll ever be good enough. Maybe you are tired of being haunted by trauma. Maybe you are tired of taking care of everyone else without a break for yourself. Or maybe you're just plain tired. I get it! And there's good news: therapy can help.
![Photo of Crystal Anderson - The Sweatshirt Therapist , LPC, MHSP, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a211b01-e61a-4aa0-b3f8-279436cd321b/3/320x400.jpeg)
The Sweatshirt Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, TN 37221
Have you ever thought, I’ll feel better when (fill in the blank) happens. However, every time you think about it the (fill in the blank) never seems to come or has come but you still feel unsettled. Moving through transitions can seem uncomfortable or chaotic at times but so can seeing a therapist. I’ll help you walk through the journey of your transition or current issue usually while wearing one of my many comfortable sweatshirts.
Have you ever thought, I’ll feel better when (fill in the blank) happens. However, every time you think about it the (fill in the blank) never seems to come or has come but you still feel unsettled. Moving through transitions can seem uncomfortable or chaotic at times but so can seeing a therapist. I’ll help you walk through the journey of your transition or current issue usually while wearing one of my many comfortable sweatshirts.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Dean Porterfield, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/466ed790-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dean Porterfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37221
In addition to my private practice I have served as a Director of an Outdoor Therapeutic Boarding School, and currently serve as the Director of Adolescent and Young Men Services at a residential Substance Abuse program.
Understanding that for most, making the decision to enter therapy is a difficult step, it is essential that I not only connect and relate, but I provide a degree of noticeable relief or insight within the first session. This is especially true with adolescents, young adults and men, who tend to be resistant at the onset of the therapy process. I meet my clients where they are at, build upon their strengths to address their struggles, establish mutually agreed upon goals, and become an advocate for their overall growth and well-being. I am affirming, but direct in my approach.
In addition to my private practice I have served as a Director of an Outdoor Therapeutic Boarding School, and currently serve as the Director of Adolescent and Young Men Services at a residential Substance Abuse program.
Understanding that for most, making the decision to enter therapy is a difficult step, it is essential that I not only connect and relate, but I provide a degree of noticeable relief or insight within the first session. This is especially true with adolescents, young adults and men, who tend to be resistant at the onset of the therapy process. I meet my clients where they are at, build upon their strengths to address their struggles, establish mutually agreed upon goals, and become an advocate for their overall growth and well-being. I am affirming, but direct in my approach.
![Photo of Janet V Heilbronn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54529b36-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Janet V Heilbronn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37221
I love working with clients that are actively on the path of healing. I have extensive experience working with addiction (both process and substance) and trauma and welcome sober and newly sober people to step in to a process with me. I am an 'out of the box' therapist and work best with those that are open to doing their therapeutic work 'beyond the talking'. In addition to recovery I love to help people identify ways in which to be more fully who they know inside that they are - even if they don't have the fully formed picture of what that is yet!
I love working with clients that are actively on the path of healing. I have extensive experience working with addiction (both process and substance) and trauma and welcome sober and newly sober people to step in to a process with me. I am an 'out of the box' therapist and work best with those that are open to doing their therapeutic work 'beyond the talking'. In addition to recovery I love to help people identify ways in which to be more fully who they know inside that they are - even if they don't have the fully formed picture of what that is yet!
![Photo of Jeff Wilson, LADACII, MSW, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d49b796-b6c8-491b-865b-4391a1d4090d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alcohol and substance use disorders can significantly impact the lives of young adults, posing significant health concerns. However, it is important to remember that recovery and remission are highly achievable outcomes. As a therapist specialized in young adult substance use disorders, my goal is to provide solution-focused therapy that helps you navigate the complexities of these conditions. I understand the unique challenges you may be facing and aim to help you comprehend the nature and extent of your problems, as well as any related obstacles you encounter.
Alcohol and substance use disorders can significantly impact the lives of young adults, posing significant health concerns. However, it is important to remember that recovery and remission are highly achievable outcomes. As a therapist specialized in young adult substance use disorders, my goal is to provide solution-focused therapy that helps you navigate the complexities of these conditions. I understand the unique challenges you may be facing and aim to help you comprehend the nature and extent of your problems, as well as any related obstacles you encounter.
![Photo of Jamshid Khoshnoodi, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fb6dc10-fe28-415a-aad0-da27cdad8854/4/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treating trauma, PTSD, addiction, mood, and personality disorders.
Unresolved childhood trauma, neglect, and attachment disorders can turn into long-lasting mental health challenges well into adulthood. Without proper treatment and support, childhood adversities can lead to feelings of unworthiness, hopelessness, helplessness, mood and personality disorders, relationship issues, and a range of other maladaptive and compulsive addictive behaviors in adulthood. Addressing childhood adversities through effective therapies can empower individuals to overcome their mental health challenges and have a chance of living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
I specialize in treating trauma, PTSD, addiction, mood, and personality disorders.
Unresolved childhood trauma, neglect, and attachment disorders can turn into long-lasting mental health challenges well into adulthood. Without proper treatment and support, childhood adversities can lead to feelings of unworthiness, hopelessness, helplessness, mood and personality disorders, relationship issues, and a range of other maladaptive and compulsive addictive behaviors in adulthood. Addressing childhood adversities through effective therapies can empower individuals to overcome their mental health challenges and have a chance of living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
![Photo of Lisa R Lyons, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45e5b5ae-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa R Lyons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37221
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you deal with anxiety, depression, out of control emotions, numb emotions, dissociation, anger/irritablity, sexual behaviors that concern you, you've lost a sense of who you are, experience eating disorders, substance abuse, alcoholism, or want sexual therapy to restore the lost connection, I look forward to our work.
If you are an adult and have experienced childhood sexual/emotional/physical abuse, an adult who was recently abused, or a person who has done their abuse work, but wants to restore sexuality, let us work together. If you are a partner who wants to understand, work through your own emotions and responses, I would like to hear from you as well. With 20 years at the Sexual Assault Center, as well as 1 year at the VA working with Military Sexual Assault, I would tell you, the path is hopeful.
Whether you deal with anxiety, depression, out of control emotions, numb emotions, dissociation, anger/irritablity, sexual behaviors that concern you, you've lost a sense of who you are, experience eating disorders, substance abuse, alcoholism, or want sexual therapy to restore the lost connection, I look forward to our work.
If you are an adult and have experienced childhood sexual/emotional/physical abuse, an adult who was recently abused, or a person who has done their abuse work, but wants to restore sexuality, let us work together. If you are a partner who wants to understand, work through your own emotions and responses, I would like to hear from you as well. With 20 years at the Sexual Assault Center, as well as 1 year at the VA working with Military Sexual Assault, I would tell you, the path is hopeful.
![Photo of Elena G Hearn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d384bec-8d35-4b52-9c47-a183e4491305/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have worked with people struggling with eating disorders and addictions.
If you are looking for a very experienced therapist, I have had more than 40 years in the Mental Health field. I worked at the VA Women's Clinic for over 7 years. I started the Eating Disorders program at the Ranch in 2004. I worked at the Student Counseling Center at Vanderbilt for 14 years. I have also worked at several Addictions Treatment Centers. If you are struggling with an eating disorder, recovering from an addiction or having problems balancing work, family and self care, I can help you to get back on track. I have availability and would be happy to be a part of your healing process!
I have worked with people struggling with eating disorders and addictions.
If you are looking for a very experienced therapist, I have had more than 40 years in the Mental Health field. I worked at the VA Women's Clinic for over 7 years. I started the Eating Disorders program at the Ranch in 2004. I worked at the Student Counseling Center at Vanderbilt for 14 years. I have also worked at several Addictions Treatment Centers. If you are struggling with an eating disorder, recovering from an addiction or having problems balancing work, family and self care, I can help you to get back on track. I have availability and would be happy to be a part of your healing process!
![Photo of Stuart Eldon Cook, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/541fe13b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stuart Eldon Cook
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37221
I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Hypnosis, and Positive Psychology to help people overcome anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, and trauma.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Anxiety exhausts, paralyzes, and overwhelms us. Depression leaves us feeling hopeless, worthless, and alone. ADHD can stifle our productivity while crushing our self-esteem. Addiction keeps us in bondage to that which will never truly satisfy. And marital and family relationships that were supposed to serve as secure bases can quickly become sources of tremendous pain and distress. You've tried to overcome these issues on your own but to no avail; you feel stuck and as though you've run out of options. But there is hope!
I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Hypnosis, and Positive Psychology to help people overcome anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, and trauma.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Anxiety exhausts, paralyzes, and overwhelms us. Depression leaves us feeling hopeless, worthless, and alone. ADHD can stifle our productivity while crushing our self-esteem. Addiction keeps us in bondage to that which will never truly satisfy. And marital and family relationships that were supposed to serve as secure bases can quickly become sources of tremendous pain and distress. You've tried to overcome these issues on your own but to no avail; you feel stuck and as though you've run out of options. But there is hope!
![Photo of Katy Odenbaugh, MSSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58ce2ec6-ef89-4d81-8e15-4a845c069734/1/320x400.jpeg)
In addition, some of her primary therapeutic focuses are relationship issues, trauma, substance use and addiction, divorce, codependency, depression, anxiety, and self-esteem.
Katy (she/her) is a pre-licensed clinician with experience working with individuals in different stages of life with a wide variety of clinical concerns. She uses a person-centered approach to her work, combining holistic and mindfulness-based techniques.
In addition, some of her primary therapeutic focuses are relationship issues, trauma, substance use and addiction, divorce, codependency, depression, anxiety, and self-esteem.
Katy (she/her) is a pre-licensed clinician with experience working with individuals in different stages of life with a wide variety of clinical concerns. She uses a person-centered approach to her work, combining holistic and mindfulness-based techniques.
![Photo of Logan Cornelison, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dddd14a2-1c95-486e-8eab-680123751743/2/320x400.jpeg)
Logan Cornelison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37221 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for working with adults struggling to cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, substance use, and adjustment to difficult life transitions. I believe that every individual has inherent strengths that can be powerful catalysts for positive change- although these can often feel just out of reach when we try to carry our struggles on our own. Through a collaborative and client-centered approach, I work with you to uncover and utilize these strengths to facilitate growth and healing that lasts long after therapy has ended.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for working with adults struggling to cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, substance use, and adjustment to difficult life transitions. I believe that every individual has inherent strengths that can be powerful catalysts for positive change- although these can often feel just out of reach when we try to carry our struggles on our own. Through a collaborative and client-centered approach, I work with you to uncover and utilize these strengths to facilitate growth and healing that lasts long after therapy has ended.
![Photo of Carrie Fraser, LMFT, SD, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/700c18e8-8712-4496-b98c-c41c7c721edc/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with people undergoing life transitions, premarital counseling, experiencing professional development challenges, addiction/recovery, co-dependency, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues.
Asking for help and support is a courageous first step toward wholeness. I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals and couples to navigate their unique struggles and challenges. We will work together to help you identify your goals for building a healthier and more fulfilling life. In our time together we will develop techniques to help you practice and integrate skills to meet your goals. I am trained in Somatic and Attachment focused EMDR trauma therapy with experience working with clients who have experienced trauma or addiction/codependency directly or within their family systems. I am certified in dream work.
I work with people undergoing life transitions, premarital counseling, experiencing professional development challenges, addiction/recovery, co-dependency, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues.
Asking for help and support is a courageous first step toward wholeness. I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals and couples to navigate their unique struggles and challenges. We will work together to help you identify your goals for building a healthier and more fulfilling life. In our time together we will develop techniques to help you practice and integrate skills to meet your goals. I am trained in Somatic and Attachment focused EMDR trauma therapy with experience working with clients who have experienced trauma or addiction/codependency directly or within their family systems. I am certified in dream work.
![Photo of Leslie Gonzales, MA , Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e09317fa-ed53-410c-abe6-7e1d287c60e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leslie Gonzales
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37221 (Online Only)
Leslie collaborates with clients across the lifespan to address issues such as depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, eating disorders, and life transitions.
Leslie Gonzales is a pre-licensed therapist who earned her Master’s degree in counseling from the University of Hawaii at Hilo. Throughout her master’s program, Leslie gained experience working with various populations in different settings to help them achieve their goals. Her experiences include providing outpatient counseling services to individuals with substance use disorders and guidance counseling services to students earning their high school equivalency credentials.
Leslie collaborates with clients across the lifespan to address issues such as depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, eating disorders, and life transitions.
Leslie Gonzales is a pre-licensed therapist who earned her Master’s degree in counseling from the University of Hawaii at Hilo. Throughout her master’s program, Leslie gained experience working with various populations in different settings to help them achieve their goals. Her experiences include providing outpatient counseling services to individuals with substance use disorders and guidance counseling services to students earning their high school equivalency credentials.
See more therapy options for Bellevue
Nearby Addiction Therapists Searches for Bellevue
- Antioch
- Berry Hill
- Brentwood
- Fairview
- Franklin
- Hermitage
- La Vergne
- Madison
- Nashville
- Nolensville
- Old Hickory
- Thompsons Station
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.