Photo of Andrea Deal - Restore Counseling & Consulting,LLC, PsyD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Restore Counseling & Consulting,LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
I am aware of the potential setbacks and implications of neglected substance abuse, mental health issues, and their impact if left untreated. While working in a variety of settings, I’ve seen first hand how they affect the individual, community, and the immediate family. I am fully committed to advocate for those in need of the highest quality of treatment services. I am a firm believer that when an individual is given the opportunity to tell his/her story and given a chance to heal and develop effective coping skills, they too, can find a road to restoration.
I am aware of the potential setbacks and implications of neglected substance abuse, mental health issues, and their impact if left untreated. While working in a variety of settings, I’ve seen first hand how they affect the individual, community, and the immediate family. I am fully committed to advocate for those in need of the highest quality of treatment services. I am a firm believer that when an individual is given the opportunity to tell his/her story and given a chance to heal and develop effective coping skills, they too, can find a road to restoration.
(703) 879-3922 View (703) 879-3922
Photo of Carol A Erbes - Carol Erbes, Hampton Roads Counseling Services, PhD, LCSW, CSAC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Erbes, Hampton Roads Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CSAC, LICSW
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23503  (Online Only)
My major speciality for therapy is addiction of all kinds.
I am currently licensed to practice and supervise in Virginia , DC and Vermont. I provide clinical supervision for those seeking their LPC, LCSW or CSAC. I provide this in person as well as through Skype, etc. I am board approved in the state of Virginia. I am also a person-centered therapist and believe in treating all people with unconditional positive regard. My main approach is CBT. My ideal client is one who is aware that they have a problem and are willing to change the way they think.My fee is $45 for half an hour of therapy or half an hour of supervision, $90 for an hour of either.
My major speciality for therapy is addiction of all kinds.
I am currently licensed to practice and supervise in Virginia , DC and Vermont. I provide clinical supervision for those seeking their LPC, LCSW or CSAC. I provide this in person as well as through Skype, etc. I am board approved in the state of Virginia. I am also a person-centered therapist and believe in treating all people with unconditional positive regard. My main approach is CBT. My ideal client is one who is aware that they have a problem and are willing to change the way they think.My fee is $45 for half an hour of therapy or half an hour of supervision, $90 for an hour of either.
(757) 665-2473 View (757) 665-2473
Photo of Abeba Fekade - Dr. Abeba Fekade -Healing Education & Research Ctr, PhD, CSAC, MAC, SAP, ADS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Dr. Abeba Fekade -Healing Education & Research Ctr
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, CSAC, MAC, SAP, ADS
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
HER-Center also provide counseling, classes and workshops for alcohol and substance use disorder using integrative approach with a focus on core areas of biological, psychological social and spiritual knowledge and application.
At HER-Center, we provide integrative education, coaching and counseling to help clients find the pathways to wellness, healing, and positive transformation in their lives in a judgement free setting. Our primary guiding principle is " In the Absence of Unnecessary Fear and in the Presence of Unconditional Love, All is Possible." we use a unified field of healing energy using a holistic/tewahedo modality and therapeutic conditions that aligns body, mind and spirit coherence; and help our clients manage their thoughts, emotions and behaviors so that they bring wellness and enhance joy and growth in their life...
HER-Center also provide counseling, classes and workshops for alcohol and substance use disorder using integrative approach with a focus on core areas of biological, psychological social and spiritual knowledge and application.
At HER-Center, we provide integrative education, coaching and counseling to help clients find the pathways to wellness, healing, and positive transformation in their lives in a judgement free setting. Our primary guiding principle is " In the Absence of Unnecessary Fear and in the Presence of Unconditional Love, All is Possible." we use a unified field of healing energy using a holistic/tewahedo modality and therapeutic conditions that aligns body, mind and spirit coherence; and help our clients manage their thoughts, emotions and behaviors so that they bring wellness and enhance joy and growth in their life...
(571) 257-4969 View (571) 257-4969
Photo of Eva Chiriboga, PsyD, Psychologist
Eva Chiriboga
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22309  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in working with trauma, substance abuse, chronic pain and anxiety.
Now accepting new Aetna clients! Being a human can be really hard sometimes. Maybe it’s hard because there’s an area in our lives where we struggle, like in our careers or relationships. Perhaps, we’ve experienced some painful times that we haven’t fully healed from or find ourselves engaging in problematic behaviors. Whatever our struggles, I’ve found that psychotherapy can help reduce our suffering and help connect us to the joy of being alive.
I have specialized training in working with trauma, substance abuse, chronic pain and anxiety.
Now accepting new Aetna clients! Being a human can be really hard sometimes. Maybe it’s hard because there’s an area in our lives where we struggle, like in our careers or relationships. Perhaps, we’ve experienced some painful times that we haven’t fully healed from or find ourselves engaging in problematic behaviors. Whatever our struggles, I’ve found that psychotherapy can help reduce our suffering and help connect us to the joy of being alive.
View
Photo of Timothy H Barclay - Advanced Psychotherapeutics, PhD, Psychologist
Advanced Psychotherapeutics
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Forest, VA 24551
I am a published author and researcher with clinical expertise in treating a variety of disorders to include ADHD, Mood Disorders, Substance abuse, and Autism.
Our motto: "We don't treat problems, we fix them." We offer the best in counseling and alternative medicine in Virginia. I have been trained in research applications and the clinical use of non-invasive brain stimulation at Harvard Medical School. I'm also trained in neurofeedback. Our therapists treat a variety of disorders to include ADHD, Autism, Mood disorders, substance abuse, marriage and family, and others. We offer the most comprehensive services available in Virginia. In addition to treatment, we are also a training and research facility. Whether you're looking for therapy, life coaching, or brain stimulation, we can help.
I am a published author and researcher with clinical expertise in treating a variety of disorders to include ADHD, Mood Disorders, Substance abuse, and Autism.
Our motto: "We don't treat problems, we fix them." We offer the best in counseling and alternative medicine in Virginia. I have been trained in research applications and the clinical use of non-invasive brain stimulation at Harvard Medical School. I'm also trained in neurofeedback. Our therapists treat a variety of disorders to include ADHD, Autism, Mood disorders, substance abuse, marriage and family, and others. We offer the most comprehensive services available in Virginia. In addition to treatment, we are also a training and research facility. Whether you're looking for therapy, life coaching, or brain stimulation, we can help.
(434) 446-1018 View (434) 446-1018
Photo of Shelia E Williams, MDiv, LPC, LSATP, CAADC, ASAM, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelia E Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, LPC, LSATP, CAADC, ASAM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23234
We also provide services for those who are struggling with substance abuse.
There are times in life when situations will drive you to your knees. If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health, behavioral health, marital/family or substance abuse issues, let us help you experience the process of finding hope, restoration, and healing. If you are in need of an evaluation for the Department of Transportation (DOT), I am also a qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) that can help you through the process.
We also provide services for those who are struggling with substance abuse.
There are times in life when situations will drive you to your knees. If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health, behavioral health, marital/family or substance abuse issues, let us help you experience the process of finding hope, restoration, and healing. If you are in need of an evaluation for the Department of Transportation (DOT), I am also a qualified Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) that can help you through the process.
(804) 396-2006 View (804) 396-2006
Photo of Eugene Allen Jr. - AEDA Associates, LLC, CSAC, NCAC II, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
AEDA Associates, LLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CSAC, NCAC II
Verified Verified
Centreville, VA 20121
We approach each case with an innovative methodology, illuminating underlying issues of grief, abandonment, anger, abuse, lack of self-esteem, contributing factors to substance abuse disorder.
AEDA ASSOCIATES, LLC empowers substance abuse individuals to recover sobriety by providing addiction counseling, sober living housing referral services, spiritual, therapeutic and supportive services. Call For your FREE 1 Hour Session!
We approach each case with an innovative methodology, illuminating underlying issues of grief, abandonment, anger, abuse, lack of self-esteem, contributing factors to substance abuse disorder.
AEDA ASSOCIATES, LLC empowers substance abuse individuals to recover sobriety by providing addiction counseling, sober living housing referral services, spiritual, therapeutic and supportive services. Call For your FREE 1 Hour Session!
(703) 832-4807 View (703) 832-4807
Photo of Cynthia Turner - Insight Recovery Centers, LCSW, LSATP, MAC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Insight Recovery Centers
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCSW, LSATP, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147
Treatment is lead by masters level counselors with credentials in substance use disorders.
Are you or a loved one struggling with alcohol or drug use? Tried other treatments that didn't work? Not find 12-step meetings useful? Insight Recovery Centers is a DBHDS licensed, Joint Commission accredited adult Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) and Outpatient Program. We are for people stepping down from a residential or detox program or need more than once a week therapy. Your treatment may include a combination of group, individual, or family counseling, case management, and drug/alcohol testing. There is a step down Continuing Care group. If you are not ready to quit drinking, the Alcohol Moderation Program may be for you.
Treatment is lead by masters level counselors with credentials in substance use disorders.
Are you or a loved one struggling with alcohol or drug use? Tried other treatments that didn't work? Not find 12-step meetings useful? Insight Recovery Centers is a DBHDS licensed, Joint Commission accredited adult Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) and Outpatient Program. We are for people stepping down from a residential or detox program or need more than once a week therapy. Your treatment may include a combination of group, individual, or family counseling, case management, and drug/alcohol testing. There is a step down Continuing Care group. If you are not ready to quit drinking, the Alcohol Moderation Program may be for you.
(571) 200-3109 View (571) 200-3109
Photo of Jason Kent, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jason Kent
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
I offer individual therapy for adults and adolescents, with a primary focus and expertise on those who are currently struggling with anxiety, addiction, depression, grief, and trauma. I also provide couples counseling. Other areas of expertise include family conflict, difficult life transitions, career/vocational issues, and challenges unique to men during this season.
I offer individual therapy for adults and adolescents, with a primary focus and expertise on those who are currently struggling with anxiety, addiction, depression, grief, and trauma. I also provide couples counseling. Other areas of expertise include family conflict, difficult life transitions, career/vocational issues, and challenges unique to men during this season.
(434) 722-3494 View (434) 722-3494
Photo of Laurie Carter, PhD, LMHC, LPC, CAADC, Counselor
Laurie Carter
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Stafford, VA 22554  (Online Only)
My experience as a veteran of the United States Air Force inspired my early work with homeless veterans and veterans struggling with substance use disorders.
Hello! I am currently accepting new clients for telehealth sessions. I currently work with adults, adolescents, preteens, and partners who want to embark on a journey of self-exploration, improve mood and behavior regulation, recover from substance misuse, increase self-worth and coping skills, and heal from trauma. I currently use the following therapeutic modalities: cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT - informed individual therapy and skills development, motivational interviewing, substance use disorder treatment, supportive and solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, bibliotherapy, and narrative therapy.
My experience as a veteran of the United States Air Force inspired my early work with homeless veterans and veterans struggling with substance use disorders.
Hello! I am currently accepting new clients for telehealth sessions. I currently work with adults, adolescents, preteens, and partners who want to embark on a journey of self-exploration, improve mood and behavior regulation, recover from substance misuse, increase self-worth and coping skills, and heal from trauma. I currently use the following therapeutic modalities: cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT - informed individual therapy and skills development, motivational interviewing, substance use disorder treatment, supportive and solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, bibliotherapy, and narrative therapy.
(321) 221-5820 View (321) 221-5820
Photo of Dr. Darlise Baron, PhD, LCSW-QS, CAP, CHT, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Darlise Baron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-QS, CAP, CHT, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23232
Greetings! My name is Dr. Darlise Baron, I am the CEO of Baron Counseling Services LLC. I have been in the field of Social Work for over 23 years. I earned my doctorate degree in Sexology, Licensed clinical social worker, Certified Addiction Professional and a certified Hypnotherapist. In addition, I specialize in hypnosis, anger management, substance abuse, domestic violence, parenting, family issues, relationship concerns, grief counseling and struggles with everyday living. I provide services to Children, Adults, Families, Couples, Veterans, First Responders, LGBTQ+, and Celebrities.
Greetings! My name is Dr. Darlise Baron, I am the CEO of Baron Counseling Services LLC. I have been in the field of Social Work for over 23 years. I earned my doctorate degree in Sexology, Licensed clinical social worker, Certified Addiction Professional and a certified Hypnotherapist. In addition, I specialize in hypnosis, anger management, substance abuse, domestic violence, parenting, family issues, relationship concerns, grief counseling and struggles with everyday living. I provide services to Children, Adults, Families, Couples, Veterans, First Responders, LGBTQ+, and Celebrities.
(786) 574-3468 View (786) 574-3468
Photo of Kristin L Milne-Glasser - Allied Counseling Group, LCADC, SAP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Allied Counseling Group
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCADC, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Purcellville, VA 20132  (Online Only)
Treatment for Internet/cyber addiction, compulsive gambling & spending, substance abuse, pornography addiction.
In crisis? I specialize in same-day phone/on-site/on-line sessions/ interventions; teens, chronic relapse, Internet/cyber addictions, co-occurring issues, trauma & failure to launch young adult & family conflicts. I am certified for evaluations, treatment, pre-employment/random drug testing. I offer indiv., group sessions, EAP, custody evaluations, case management, anger/stress management, certified domestic violence batterer's intervention counseling, alcohol/drug treatment, including SMART non-12-Step & cognitive therapies. Inpatient evals & referrals & post-discharge continuing care & family therapy targeting "failure to launch" young adult issues. Most insurance accepted.
Treatment for Internet/cyber addiction, compulsive gambling & spending, substance abuse, pornography addiction.
In crisis? I specialize in same-day phone/on-site/on-line sessions/ interventions; teens, chronic relapse, Internet/cyber addictions, co-occurring issues, trauma & failure to launch young adult & family conflicts. I am certified for evaluations, treatment, pre-employment/random drug testing. I offer indiv., group sessions, EAP, custody evaluations, case management, anger/stress management, certified domestic violence batterer's intervention counseling, alcohol/drug treatment, including SMART non-12-Step & cognitive therapies. Inpatient evals & referrals & post-discharge continuing care & family therapy targeting "failure to launch" young adult issues. Most insurance accepted.
(301) 278-8808 View (301) 278-8808
Photo of Carrie Jaffe, PhD, Psychologist
Carrie Jaffe
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
I use a variety of approaches, and specialize in depth/psychodynamic psychotherapy, psychological assessment, group therapy, and addiction treatment.
Do you have the same painful relationship, job, or family problems over and over? Have you been unable to figure out why, or how to do it differently? I can help you learn how and why, and help you change these patterns. If you are unhappy, insecure, stuck in self-defeating patterns, have repeated relationship conflicts, addiction issues, or have stopped progressing in life, I can help you gain insight, change negative patterns, modify personality issues, achieve consistent Recovery from addictions, and live a happier life. I also have expertise in helping people cope with, and recover from relationships with narcissistic people.
I use a variety of approaches, and specialize in depth/psychodynamic psychotherapy, psychological assessment, group therapy, and addiction treatment.
Do you have the same painful relationship, job, or family problems over and over? Have you been unable to figure out why, or how to do it differently? I can help you learn how and why, and help you change these patterns. If you are unhappy, insecure, stuck in self-defeating patterns, have repeated relationship conflicts, addiction issues, or have stopped progressing in life, I can help you gain insight, change negative patterns, modify personality issues, achieve consistent Recovery from addictions, and live a happier life. I also have expertise in helping people cope with, and recover from relationships with narcissistic people.
(858) 375-4733 View (858) 375-4733
Photo of Sid Binks, PhD, ABPP-CN, Psychologist
Sid Binks
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP-CN
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22203
I have been working with clients for almost two decades around issues of identity development, sexual orientation, anxiety, depression and addiction.
Ideal clients are those who are looking for help and feel ready to challenge themselves and are ready for change. Issues of happiness, fulfullment, identity development, sexual orientation, gender, addiction, anxiety, depression and psychosis are some of the typical things clients bring into treatment.
I have been working with clients for almost two decades around issues of identity development, sexual orientation, anxiety, depression and addiction.
Ideal clients are those who are looking for help and feel ready to challenge themselves and are ready for change. Issues of happiness, fulfullment, identity development, sexual orientation, gender, addiction, anxiety, depression and psychosis are some of the typical things clients bring into treatment.
(844) 931-3479 View (844) 931-3479
Photo of Michael Arthur, MA, MPhil, Pre-Licensed Professional
Michael Arthur
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MPhil
Verified Verified
Sterling, VA 20164
Acceptance leads to solutions but denial leads to confusion. My name is Michael Arthur. I am a therapist and a teacher who combines Cognitive Behavior Therapy with Spirituality to support my patients. I have been working with diverse groups, children and adults who experience Mental Health illnesses, deal with substance abuse problems and those with developmental disabilities using empirically supported treatments and evidence-based practices for over 12 years now. I help achieve patients’ goals by using empathy, cultural-responsiveness, and person-centeredness among other things.
Acceptance leads to solutions but denial leads to confusion. My name is Michael Arthur. I am a therapist and a teacher who combines Cognitive Behavior Therapy with Spirituality to support my patients. I have been working with diverse groups, children and adults who experience Mental Health illnesses, deal with substance abuse problems and those with developmental disabilities using empirically supported treatments and evidence-based practices for over 12 years now. I help achieve patients’ goals by using empathy, cultural-responsiveness, and person-centeredness among other things.
(571) 339-3098 View (571) 339-3098
Photo of Mona Abuhamda, PsyD, Psychologist
Mona Abuhamda
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
Waitlist for new clients
Emotional/behavioral problems are a part of life and can affect any human being regardless of age, race, social status. There is no shame in seeking help when one is vulnerable as you would if you were suffering from any other illness. Life brings tremendous challenges to all of us and it takes strength to confront them and improve the quality of our life. We can't change our past but we can change our relationship to it. I am partnered up with a physician board certified in psychiatry and addiction medicine to provide comprehensive treatment if medication is needed.
Emotional/behavioral problems are a part of life and can affect any human being regardless of age, race, social status. There is no shame in seeking help when one is vulnerable as you would if you were suffering from any other illness. Life brings tremendous challenges to all of us and it takes strength to confront them and improve the quality of our life. We can't change our past but we can change our relationship to it. I am partnered up with a physician board certified in psychiatry and addiction medicine to provide comprehensive treatment if medication is needed.
(703) 356-9136 View (703) 356-9136
Photo of Amy E Couch - Shore Therapy, LLC, LPC, CSOTP, LSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shore Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSOTP, LSAT
Verified Verified
Cape Charles, VA 23310
As well certifications in substance abuse.
I am a Culturally competent Psychotherapist with over 15 years of experience working with diverse populations providing treatment using various evidence-based, person-centered treatment modalities. I do not believe in stigmatizing or judging people, nor do I believe that people "are" their diagnosis. I believe that the relationship between client and therapist is one of the most important tools of change, so I strive to create a safe space where the client feels free to be their authentic self. I have experience working with individuals, groups, couples, polyamorous, unions, and justice involved clients.
As well certifications in substance abuse.
I am a Culturally competent Psychotherapist with over 15 years of experience working with diverse populations providing treatment using various evidence-based, person-centered treatment modalities. I do not believe in stigmatizing or judging people, nor do I believe that people "are" their diagnosis. I believe that the relationship between client and therapist is one of the most important tools of change, so I strive to create a safe space where the client feels free to be their authentic self. I have experience working with individuals, groups, couples, polyamorous, unions, and justice involved clients.
(757) 801-3797 View (757) 801-3797
Photo of Catherine J. Mills, PsyD, LCP, CCTP, CAADC, Psychologist
Catherine J. Mills
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP, CCTP, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portsmouth, VA 23704
Experiencing trauma can be life-changing. I specialize in helping to process the traumatic event and help you meet your personal goals. I also conduct brief Cognitive-Behavioral Psychotherapy, Interpersonal Therapy and Substance Abuse Counseling Services.
Experiencing trauma can be life-changing. I specialize in helping to process the traumatic event and help you meet your personal goals. I also conduct brief Cognitive-Behavioral Psychotherapy, Interpersonal Therapy and Substance Abuse Counseling Services.
(804) 318-4276 x1 View (804) 318-4276 x1
Photo of Christine Tice, BSW, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Christine Tice
Pre-Licensed Professional, BSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23230
Christy has experience serving a diverse group of individuals who have experienced or are currently experiencing a variety of complex challenges including grief, difficult and layered life transitions, substance use concerns, relationship problems, trauma, and mental illness.
Christy demonstrates warmth and genuineness towards each individual that she serves and strives to create a non-judgmental space for clients to explore and unpack their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Christy appreciates the complexity and uniqueness of each individual and upholds the belief that each individual is the expert of their own thoughts, feelings, experiences, and problems. Christy enacts a humanistic and strengths-based approach to support individuals with overcoming barriers that come between them and the life they want to live.
Christy has experience serving a diverse group of individuals who have experienced or are currently experiencing a variety of complex challenges including grief, difficult and layered life transitions, substance use concerns, relationship problems, trauma, and mental illness.
Christy demonstrates warmth and genuineness towards each individual that she serves and strives to create a non-judgmental space for clients to explore and unpack their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Christy appreciates the complexity and uniqueness of each individual and upholds the belief that each individual is the expert of their own thoughts, feelings, experiences, and problems. Christy enacts a humanistic and strengths-based approach to support individuals with overcoming barriers that come between them and the life they want to live.
(804) 259-0526 View (804) 259-0526
Photo of Sahair Monfared, PsyD, Psychologist
Sahair Monfared
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
In addition to psychotherapy, I conduct psychological evaluations in connection with a variety of issues, including substance abuse, intellectual/cognitive functioning, and forensic/legal matters.
My orientation to psychotherapy is integrative; I recognize the value of psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and family approaches. I have come to believe that no one approach is necessarily the best. Each individual is unique, so the therapeutic approach that is used should reflect the needs of the client. By tailoring therapy to fit the needs of each individual, an atmosphere is created in which the client feels secure to explore his or her feelings. I have worked in many different treatment settings, and with diverse population of adults and adolescents. I have experience treating individuals, couples, and families.
In addition to psychotherapy, I conduct psychological evaluations in connection with a variety of issues, including substance abuse, intellectual/cognitive functioning, and forensic/legal matters.
My orientation to psychotherapy is integrative; I recognize the value of psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and family approaches. I have come to believe that no one approach is necessarily the best. Each individual is unique, so the therapeutic approach that is used should reflect the needs of the client. By tailoring therapy to fit the needs of each individual, an atmosphere is created in which the client feels secure to explore his or her feelings. I have worked in many different treatment settings, and with diverse population of adults and adolescents. I have experience treating individuals, couples, and families.
(540) 254-0909 x103 View (540) 254-0909 x103
1
Addiction Therapists

What is the best therapy for addiction?

Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.

How long does therapy for addiction take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.

How effective is drug addiction treatment?

Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?

The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.