Therapists in Houston, TX
![Photo of Tiffany T. Murphy, LCSW, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13bffce9-83ee-4374-9c61-83997221fa5f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffany T. Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77030 (Online Only)
“The ability to find your true self is one of the most important elements to sound mental health,” thus, the option is yours to start searching. My mission is to help clients understand life is worth living and to redefine their experience while providing a safe space in doing so. I want them to perceive the therapeutic process as a comprehensive endeavor toward success. It is my motivation to guide clients on their journey of healing as they attack issues related to mood, grief, substance abuse, and maladaptive behaviors that do not serve them well.
“The ability to find your true self is one of the most important elements to sound mental health,” thus, the option is yours to start searching. My mission is to help clients understand life is worth living and to redefine their experience while providing a safe space in doing so. I want them to perceive the therapeutic process as a comprehensive endeavor toward success. It is my motivation to guide clients on their journey of healing as they attack issues related to mood, grief, substance abuse, and maladaptive behaviors that do not serve them well.
![Photo of Melissa Pless, MEd, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/105bdeeb-e9ce-4fbf-956f-f6f3e1b43e78/7/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Pless
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77079
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor with clinical experience treating substance use and co-occurring disorders. Some of the issues I frequently work with include: alcohol and drug use, process addictions, anxiety, depression, stress management, self-esteem, interpersonal relationships and challenges related to life transitions.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor with clinical experience treating substance use and co-occurring disorders. Some of the issues I frequently work with include: alcohol and drug use, process addictions, anxiety, depression, stress management, self-esteem, interpersonal relationships and challenges related to life transitions.
![Photo of Dana A Burns, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52dae6ee-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
With over 25 years of experience working with clients in treatment for substance use, anger management and other mental health needs - I believe that growth is possible in every individual. I am a certified Prepare/Enrich facilitator, which supports couples toward building healthy relationships and stronger marriages. My straight forward collaborative approach incorporates a variety of therapeutic principles and philosophies in order to create the ideal treatment plan to meet the needs of each individual client or couple in areas related to grief, divorce, substance abuse, marriage, relationship concerns and life transitions.
With over 25 years of experience working with clients in treatment for substance use, anger management and other mental health needs - I believe that growth is possible in every individual. I am a certified Prepare/Enrich facilitator, which supports couples toward building healthy relationships and stronger marriages. My straight forward collaborative approach incorporates a variety of therapeutic principles and philosophies in order to create the ideal treatment plan to meet the needs of each individual client or couple in areas related to grief, divorce, substance abuse, marriage, relationship concerns and life transitions.
![Photo of Eric Williams, LCSW, CSAT, CDWF, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/601ff754-5d57-4453-9b8a-94235a5fe5dd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eric Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT, CDWF
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77006
I am an addiction specialist treating compulsive behaviors for the last ten years. I have helped people struggling with substance, food, gambling and compulsive sexual behaviors. I am a licensed clinical social worker and a certified sexual addiction therapist. With this experience I have specialized in developing techniques to support the parents and partners in relationship with those in active addiction. There is a reason addiction is our number one public health issue and the sooner people intervene on themselves or others the sooner recovery begins.
I am an addiction specialist treating compulsive behaviors for the last ten years. I have helped people struggling with substance, food, gambling and compulsive sexual behaviors. I am a licensed clinical social worker and a certified sexual addiction therapist. With this experience I have specialized in developing techniques to support the parents and partners in relationship with those in active addiction. There is a reason addiction is our number one public health issue and the sooner people intervene on themselves or others the sooner recovery begins.
![Photo of Anne Taylor Kitts, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1b24ea6-5f6c-4559-84db-d399fd71c049/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anne Taylor Kitts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002 (Online Only)
With over 30 years of experience, I have developed an expertise in substance abuse, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, borderline personality disorders and high functioning autism spectrum disorder.
Do you want a therapist that goes against the norm? Do you want to be challenged while celebrating the changes you are making in your life? Are you interested in looking at your concerns from a different perspective? I can help you identify your roadblocks as you move in the direction to become the person you want to be.
With over 30 years of experience, I have developed an expertise in substance abuse, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, borderline personality disorders and high functioning autism spectrum disorder.
Do you want a therapist that goes against the norm? Do you want to be challenged while celebrating the changes you are making in your life? Are you interested in looking at your concerns from a different perspective? I can help you identify your roadblocks as you move in the direction to become the person you want to be.
![Photo of Abraham Aviles, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9dec1e3-368e-4f14-829c-9fca20da81f6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Through this journey we can share different techniques to help you overcome addiction, hardships or self doubts.
Hi, I'm Abraham. Sometimes in life, we hit rock bottom and feel like there's no hope. I am here to tell you, hope is being able to see the light despite all of the darkness. As a Substance Abuse Counselor, I understand that seeking help is not always easy; it can be scary and intimidating. However, I want to let you know that you are not alone. I am here to understand your story and to support your journey towards your desired goals in life.
Through this journey we can share different techniques to help you overcome addiction, hardships or self doubts.
Hi, I'm Abraham. Sometimes in life, we hit rock bottom and feel like there's no hope. I am here to tell you, hope is being able to see the light despite all of the darkness. As a Substance Abuse Counselor, I understand that seeking help is not always easy; it can be scary and intimidating. However, I want to let you know that you are not alone. I am here to understand your story and to support your journey towards your desired goals in life.
![Photo of Josephine Barclay, LPC, LCDC, MS, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5eb91382-c044-436c-9438-88960c96dab1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Josephine Barclay
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC, LCDC, MS, MA
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77064
Are you in that very dark place? Don’t care if life passing you by? Are your thoughts creating more thoughts, and causing you to be completely unable to function? Are you struggling to sleep unable to turn off the thoughts? Do you function on autopilot during the day? Is your day consumed with alcohol, drugs, or a behavior or activity that leaves you with even more stress and anxiety? Is your house so cluttered and you have no energy to sort? Are you grieving a loss? Worry, stress, anxiety, boredom, loneliness, sadness, lack of sleep, addiction, grief /loss and trauma affect your daily living activities. Time to get help.
Are you in that very dark place? Don’t care if life passing you by? Are your thoughts creating more thoughts, and causing you to be completely unable to function? Are you struggling to sleep unable to turn off the thoughts? Do you function on autopilot during the day? Is your day consumed with alcohol, drugs, or a behavior or activity that leaves you with even more stress and anxiety? Is your house so cluttered and you have no energy to sort? Are you grieving a loss? Worry, stress, anxiety, boredom, loneliness, sadness, lack of sleep, addiction, grief /loss and trauma affect your daily living activities. Time to get help.
![Photo of Doretha Annett Duncan - D.A. Duncan Counseling, LLC, MA, MAC-CCC, CMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2ffc8d3-79d5-4a4b-8882-1d7f97759d96/2/320x400.png)
Addiction, Relationships, Mental Health, Conflict Resolution, Problem Solving and Crisis Counseling.
I want to help you achieve whatever life challenges you are dealing with while enjoying the process of experiencing significant changes. So many people just want someone to Listen to them. I promise…I will Listen. Calling a Therapist can be intimidating, but I hope you will seize the moment (I also teach mindfulness breathing) to call for your free 15 min consultation. Life is short; so don’t waste your energy with toxic relationships, anxiety, inability to understand why things are happening to you and still unable to find healing, purpose and meaning of your current situation and all the other areas of your life.
Addiction, Relationships, Mental Health, Conflict Resolution, Problem Solving and Crisis Counseling.
I want to help you achieve whatever life challenges you are dealing with while enjoying the process of experiencing significant changes. So many people just want someone to Listen to them. I promise…I will Listen. Calling a Therapist can be intimidating, but I hope you will seize the moment (I also teach mindfulness breathing) to call for your free 15 min consultation. Life is short; so don’t waste your energy with toxic relationships, anxiety, inability to understand why things are happening to you and still unable to find healing, purpose and meaning of your current situation and all the other areas of your life.
![Photo of Alexandra Svadlenak, MS, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27898c94-fa9c-4612-a768-bb6dc8b54582/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra Svadlenak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77065
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) who specializes in treating addiction disorders, including alcohol and substance use disorders, as well as internalizing disorders including depression and anxiety. My goal is to always encourage, motivate, and instill hope in those I work with. Change can be challenging but is very much obtainable with self compassion, courage, and the right tools. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy to adolescents and adults using tailored treatment plans to meet the unique needs and goals of each patient.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) who specializes in treating addiction disorders, including alcohol and substance use disorders, as well as internalizing disorders including depression and anxiety. My goal is to always encourage, motivate, and instill hope in those I work with. Change can be challenging but is very much obtainable with self compassion, courage, and the right tools. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy to adolescents and adults using tailored treatment plans to meet the unique needs and goals of each patient.
![Photo of David H Pickup, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4281aea6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in: Addictions, Gender dysphoria/sexuality and related issues, EMDR, marriage and family therapy, depression and anxiety issues, spiritual/faith issues, with children, adolescents and adults. Whatever you do...contact me first for the latest treatment for addictions and the above. Feeling State work (EMDR) is the latest treatment for the issues above, and it is fast becoming the quickest method to address addiction issues. To discover and live from the authentic self is paramount to my work. A therapeutic atmosphere not only includes expertise, but includes a trusting, non-judgmental experience in which issues are compassionately explored.
I specialize in: Addictions, Gender dysphoria/sexuality and related issues, EMDR, marriage and family therapy, depression and anxiety issues, spiritual/faith issues, with children, adolescents and adults. Whatever you do...contact me first for the latest treatment for addictions and the above. Feeling State work (EMDR) is the latest treatment for the issues above, and it is fast becoming the quickest method to address addiction issues. To discover and live from the authentic self is paramount to my work. A therapeutic atmosphere not only includes expertise, but includes a trusting, non-judgmental experience in which issues are compassionately explored.
![Photo of James Marshall Rorie Jr - Christian Counselors of Hedwig Village, MA, MEd, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b60897c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christian Counselors of Hedwig Village
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77024
Many of my clients are men/marriages where sex addiction is an issue.
Clients benefit from a therapist with a diverse background and life experience. I am a Christian counselor with a varied experience. I served in the US Navy, spent 15 years as a school teacher and served on a church staff . I have been married for 43 years have four adult children and ten grandchildren. I understand clergy and school related issues. I enjoy my family, being outdoors, and collecting Thomas Kincaid.
Many of my clients are men/marriages where sex addiction is an issue.
Clients benefit from a therapist with a diverse background and life experience. I am a Christian counselor with a varied experience. I served in the US Navy, spent 15 years as a school teacher and served on a church staff . I have been married for 43 years have four adult children and ten grandchildren. I understand clergy and school related issues. I enjoy my family, being outdoors, and collecting Thomas Kincaid.
15 Second Videos
Abraham Aviles
D.A. Duncan Counseling, LLC
Janelle Martin
Tom Stevens
Cheryl Rhode
Mark Duane Woodhouse
Laquinta Milson
Prasad Counseling and Training
James Flowers
Aaron Hallstrom
Monique Yvonne Harris
Life 8 LLC
Christian Biscotti
David James Grenn
Steven Gonzalez Bcba-D
Quin'tara Spencer Vallaire
Cody McCain
Noel Robert Love
District Counseling at Spring-Tomball
Bryant Hyland Packard
Sarah Burnette-Rodriguez
Olajumoke M. Iyiola
Bettison and Bettison of TX Inc
Wise MindBody Institute, PLLC
Thomas O Whitehead
Garreth Pfennig
Rosalia Vazquez
Leroy Scott
Bianca Bonaventure
Kagey Family Counseling
Liz Ross
Tanner Raab
Scott D Altamirano
Boisey Bristo
Steve Spohr
Ebony V McClain
Cristina's Counseling and Recovery
Meagan Butler
WholeNest Recovery Counseling 222
Marci'a Blake
Sofia Naupari
Marlene Merchant
Jesus Tamez
La Shaundrea Harris
Alcohol and Drug Evaluations
Judy Lee Bou Kheir
Ashley Deleon
Kate Doherty
Jill Robin Payne
Cyrus Martin
![Photo of Clayton Michael Goldberg, LCDC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93474626-a1e2-4244-8b52-5591bd3de60e/2/320x400.jpeg)
My mission as a counselor is to help my clients confront and address their struggles concerning substance use and other related issues. Along with that is helping them create a recovering lifestyle that they can be proud of. I serve those that struggle with an addiction and have the readiness to work through the issues addiction brings and promote self-improvement in their life of recovery.
My mission as a counselor is to help my clients confront and address their struggles concerning substance use and other related issues. Along with that is helping them create a recovering lifestyle that they can be proud of. I serve those that struggle with an addiction and have the readiness to work through the issues addiction brings and promote self-improvement in their life of recovery.
![Photo of Amy Buford, LADC/MH, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81c381b4-10ab-4663-b7b7-429394aeadb3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Buford
Licensed Professional Counselor, LADC/MH, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77005 (Online Only)
Have you been struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, problematic substance use, self esteem problems, addiction, and/ or relationship problems? Are you in a helping profession and finding yourself struggling? Together we walk through the journey of your life and help you heal from emotions that are hindering your quality of life.
Have you been struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, problematic substance use, self esteem problems, addiction, and/ or relationship problems? Are you in a helping profession and finding yourself struggling? Together we walk through the journey of your life and help you heal from emotions that are hindering your quality of life.
![Photo of Janelle Martin, LPC-A, LCDC, ICP, BHP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f503ce26-a260-4413-a839-2f76cc987348/1/320x400.jpeg)
Janelle Martin
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LPC-A, LCDC, ICP, BHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77070
We are a mother/daughter team with lived experience with substance use disorder and individual and family recovery.
At The Mind Connection, we approach mental health naturally by addressing brain health. We are Dr. Amen Certified Brain Health Professionals and believe that mental health is equal to the health of your brain. We offer multiple brain health assessments to determine the conditions you are experiencing as well as the brain systems affected. We address any issues with natural, brain-formulated supplements and IASIS MicroCurrent Neurofeedback to support and heal the brain without toxic medications and their unwanted side effects. We offer Brainspotting and counseling for those with traumatic experiences in need of additional support.
We are a mother/daughter team with lived experience with substance use disorder and individual and family recovery.
At The Mind Connection, we approach mental health naturally by addressing brain health. We are Dr. Amen Certified Brain Health Professionals and believe that mental health is equal to the health of your brain. We offer multiple brain health assessments to determine the conditions you are experiencing as well as the brain systems affected. We address any issues with natural, brain-formulated supplements and IASIS MicroCurrent Neurofeedback to support and heal the brain without toxic medications and their unwanted side effects. We offer Brainspotting and counseling for those with traumatic experiences in need of additional support.
![Photo of David Stuart Aron, LCSW, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/caa8eb64-2cf1-42bd-aa14-017610430953/2/320x400.jpeg)
David Stuart Aron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77057
I work with individuals and families to navigate the complexities associated with anxiety and substance use challenges. My expertise is in the treatment of anxiety, depression, addiction, and OCD. Before becoming a therapist, I worked in business development for various tech companies in the United States and internationally. My journey through these non-clinical careers gives me a unique ability to identify and treat individuals using non-clinical skills who need direction applicable to their complex journeys. I am well connected in the therapeutic world and can help expedite the process of finding additional resources.
I work with individuals and families to navigate the complexities associated with anxiety and substance use challenges. My expertise is in the treatment of anxiety, depression, addiction, and OCD. Before becoming a therapist, I worked in business development for various tech companies in the United States and internationally. My journey through these non-clinical careers gives me a unique ability to identify and treat individuals using non-clinical skills who need direction applicable to their complex journeys. I am well connected in the therapeutic world and can help expedite the process of finding additional resources.
![Photo of Kathleen Park, MA, LPC-S, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1baef54e-e7f9-4cee-8b65-cface6e558f4/2/320x400.jpeg)
My therapeutic philosophy is rooted in the belief that deep connection and holding space for one another can lead to profound healing and transformation. I prioritize the therapeutic relationship and clients' safety above all else, fostering an environment of trust and authenticity. Passionate about guiding clients towards a more fulfilled and embodied existence, I specialize in helping individuals cultivate a deeper connection to themselves and others in their lives. I am experienced in addressing issues related to substance use, trauma, relationships, and self-esteem.
My therapeutic philosophy is rooted in the belief that deep connection and holding space for one another can lead to profound healing and transformation. I prioritize the therapeutic relationship and clients' safety above all else, fostering an environment of trust and authenticity. Passionate about guiding clients towards a more fulfilled and embodied existence, I specialize in helping individuals cultivate a deeper connection to themselves and others in their lives. I am experienced in addressing issues related to substance use, trauma, relationships, and self-esteem.
![Photo of Daniell Chisley, LPC, LSOTP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/651f347e-8c9c-4fb8-9ea7-2ead88719307/1/320x400.jpeg)
Daniell Chisley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSOTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77089 (Online Only)
My experience encompasses various mental health disorders, including but not limited to substance use, sex addiction, anxiety, ADHD, male and female issues, anger management, and PTSD.
Hello, my name is Daniell’ Chisley. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I work with individual clients, adults, and juveniles (13-17), as well as couples. I am here to give you the support and help that you need, to get through the tough times in your life. With both of use working together, you will achieve your goals. Keep in mind that times can be hard and stressful, but we can work to develop a plan that will bring ideas, as well as solutions. Thank you, hope to hear from you very soon.
My experience encompasses various mental health disorders, including but not limited to substance use, sex addiction, anxiety, ADHD, male and female issues, anger management, and PTSD.
Hello, my name is Daniell’ Chisley. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I work with individual clients, adults, and juveniles (13-17), as well as couples. I am here to give you the support and help that you need, to get through the tough times in your life. With both of use working together, you will achieve your goals. Keep in mind that times can be hard and stressful, but we can work to develop a plan that will bring ideas, as well as solutions. Thank you, hope to hear from you very soon.
![Photo of Antonio M Wilson, MA, LPC-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61b75eb3-76af-47ac-ac1a-f0880ca3438b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Antonio's expertise extends across several critical areas, including faith-based issues, depression, anxiety, anger management, substance use issues, life transitions, couples counseling, support for the LGBTQ+ community, and trauma recovery.
Antonio's ideal client is someone who is new to the world of mental health support, driven by a genuine desire to improve their mental well-being, and seeking a counselor who can provide a safe, compassionate, and educational therapeutic experience. Antonio's dedication to breaking down the barriers of stigma and his commitment to supporting their mental health journey make him the perfect ally on their path to personal growth and well-being.
Antonio's expertise extends across several critical areas, including faith-based issues, depression, anxiety, anger management, substance use issues, life transitions, couples counseling, support for the LGBTQ+ community, and trauma recovery.
Antonio's ideal client is someone who is new to the world of mental health support, driven by a genuine desire to improve their mental well-being, and seeking a counselor who can provide a safe, compassionate, and educational therapeutic experience. Antonio's dedication to breaking down the barriers of stigma and his commitment to supporting their mental health journey make him the perfect ally on their path to personal growth and well-being.
![Photo of Anne King, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f7c6d81-2f90-4f81-bc0b-fa39c488d52b/2/320x400.jpeg)
At The Integrated Self, PLLC, I value the opportunity to work as a queer-informed, Substance Use and Mental & Behavioral Health therapist. My primary areas of focus are LGBTQIA+ related issues, working with folx in recovery from substance abuse, and supporting parents of adolescents and young adults. I work with a diverse group of clients who are motivated to develop the skills necessary for coping with issues including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, history of trauma, adjustment to life changes, and difficulty maintaining healthy relationships.
At The Integrated Self, PLLC, I value the opportunity to work as a queer-informed, Substance Use and Mental & Behavioral Health therapist. My primary areas of focus are LGBTQIA+ related issues, working with folx in recovery from substance abuse, and supporting parents of adolescents and young adults. I work with a diverse group of clients who are motivated to develop the skills necessary for coping with issues including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, history of trauma, adjustment to life changes, and difficulty maintaining healthy relationships.
![Photo of Kari Ellingsen, LPC-A, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80b3c9ba-d2d6-4746-9b77-53608863bbad/1/320x400.jpeg)
I primarily work with individuals struggling with substance use disorder, anxiety and OCD.
I believe that we, as humans, possess so many hidden strengths that can help us find the light in our lives again. Sometimes, we just need someone to help us see what we don’t see! I believe in working collaboratively with my clients to develop a personalized treatment plan that focuses on achievable goals and taking things one step at a time.
I primarily work with individuals struggling with substance use disorder, anxiety and OCD.
I believe that we, as humans, possess so many hidden strengths that can help us find the light in our lives again. Sometimes, we just need someone to help us see what we don’t see! I believe in working collaboratively with my clients to develop a personalized treatment plan that focuses on achievable goals and taking things one step at a time.
See more therapy options for Houston
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.