Addiction Therapists in Cupertino, CA

Photo of Francis Abueg, PhD, Psychologist
Francis Abueg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cupertino, CA 95014
Clients with histories of trauma and addiction have been the center of a 33-year practice as a clinical psychologist.
You are ready to make a big change finally and this may be your best year ever. Paradoxically, in the midst of greatest stress and suffering you reach out to therapy. After 33 years as a clinical psychologist, I have great confidence that I can partner with you to manage overwhelming pain, loss and fear. More than that, you can reawaken resilience and wisdom, and find your way to great meaning and purpose once again in your life.
Clients with histories of trauma and addiction have been the center of a 33-year practice as a clinical psychologist.
You are ready to make a big change finally and this may be your best year ever. Paradoxically, in the midst of greatest stress and suffering you reach out to therapy. After 33 years as a clinical psychologist, I have great confidence that I can partner with you to manage overwhelming pain, loss and fear. More than that, you can reawaken resilience and wisdom, and find your way to great meaning and purpose once again in your life.
(408) 337-2953 View (408) 337-2953
Photo of Peter Shum, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Peter Shum
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Cupertino, CA 95014
Not accepting new clients
I have additional training and experiences in working with people struggling with addiction and people who want to improve their couples relationships.
Our world today is full of challenges. Many stressors in life knock us off balance, and we feel overwhelmed, distressed, sometimes angry, sad and lonely. But you do not need to face the challenges alone. I am passionate to help people regain the balance by being more attuned to themselves - their identities, emotions, and physical needs. I work collaboratively with my clients to explore and identify ways to meet their goals, and provide tools and interventions as fitting. Most importantly, I walk alongside them in their journey to attain health and growth.
I have additional training and experiences in working with people struggling with addiction and people who want to improve their couples relationships.
Our world today is full of challenges. Many stressors in life knock us off balance, and we feel overwhelmed, distressed, sometimes angry, sad and lonely. But you do not need to face the challenges alone. I am passionate to help people regain the balance by being more attuned to themselves - their identities, emotions, and physical needs. I work collaboratively with my clients to explore and identify ways to meet their goals, and provide tools and interventions as fitting. Most importantly, I walk alongside them in their journey to attain health and growth.
(408) 889-7589 View (408) 889-7589
Photo of Kevin Kuhlow, LAADC, MS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Kevin Kuhlow
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAADC, MS
Verified Verified
Cupertino, CA 95014
Is alcohol or another substance holding you back? Are you a professional or executive who has found that the one thing you haven't been able to overcome is substance use? Many clinicians don't truly understand the stress and loneliness that professional success can create. My experience as a senior executive and addiction professional can help you break free and achieve your true potential. Don't let substance abuse be the one thing you haven't been able to overcome as a professional. I utilize positive counseling techniques designed to capitalize on your strengths to help you overcome substance use and achieve your potential.
Is alcohol or another substance holding you back? Are you a professional or executive who has found that the one thing you haven't been able to overcome is substance use? Many clinicians don't truly understand the stress and loneliness that professional success can create. My experience as a senior executive and addiction professional can help you break free and achieve your true potential. Don't let substance abuse be the one thing you haven't been able to overcome as a professional. I utilize positive counseling techniques designed to capitalize on your strengths to help you overcome substance use and achieve your potential.
(650) 420-4560 View (650) 420-4560
Photo of Melissa E Miller, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa E Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cupertino, CA 95014  (Online Only)
EMDR therapy is a speedy and effective way to relieve your emotional distress from traumatic events, fears, phobias and anxiety, and to treat your substance abuse problems, eating disorders, and chronic pain.
Are you a worried parent of a teenager who's headed for trouble, or is already there? I'll help you get your kid back on track. Are you suffering the aftereffects of trauma (nightmares, flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, feeling disconnected from yourself and loved ones)? We'll find a way to heal your pain and make you whole again. Had enough of the bipolar roller-coaster? Want to break free of alcohol, substances, and other addictions, including eating disorders? Let's develop a plan for your recovery, so you have your life back.
EMDR therapy is a speedy and effective way to relieve your emotional distress from traumatic events, fears, phobias and anxiety, and to treat your substance abuse problems, eating disorders, and chronic pain.
Are you a worried parent of a teenager who's headed for trouble, or is already there? I'll help you get your kid back on track. Are you suffering the aftereffects of trauma (nightmares, flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, feeling disconnected from yourself and loved ones)? We'll find a way to heal your pain and make you whole again. Had enough of the bipolar roller-coaster? Want to break free of alcohol, substances, and other addictions, including eating disorders? Let's develop a plan for your recovery, so you have your life back.
(408) 676-9909 View (408) 676-9909
Photo of Angela Brownemiller - Dr. Angela Brownemiller, Dr. Angela® Programs, PhD, PhD2DSW, MPH, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Angela Brownemiller, Dr. Angela® Programs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, PhD2DSW, MPH, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cupertino, CA 95014  (Online Only)
See my books to know more about my approaches to self, spirit, and personal change, such as: Seeing The Hidden Face Of Addiction, and Navigating Life's Stuff, also How To Die And Survive (concepts for living and dying).
People come to see me to talk about what's going on in their minds, their spirits, their lives. I work with people on whatever level they wish. For some of you, this is about finding a way to communicate with other people. For some, this is about managing your own emotions such as anger or fear or sadness, or dreams or nightmares, or traumatic stress, or cravings and triggers. Some people want to develop pathways to successful personal change. Some want to dig deeply into their minds, even into their consciousnesses. I can walk with you on your journey into yourself. Dr. Angela Brownemiller. Licensed in California and Nevada.
See my books to know more about my approaches to self, spirit, and personal change, such as: Seeing The Hidden Face Of Addiction, and Navigating Life's Stuff, also How To Die And Survive (concepts for living and dying).
People come to see me to talk about what's going on in their minds, their spirits, their lives. I work with people on whatever level they wish. For some of you, this is about finding a way to communicate with other people. For some, this is about managing your own emotions such as anger or fear or sadness, or dreams or nightmares, or traumatic stress, or cravings and triggers. Some people want to develop pathways to successful personal change. Some want to dig deeply into their minds, even into their consciousnesses. I can walk with you on your journey into yourself. Dr. Angela Brownemiller. Licensed in California and Nevada.
View
Photo of Peter Seimas - A Center for Growth - Peter Seimas, Ph.D., PhD, Pastoral Counselor
A Center for Growth - Peter Seimas, Ph.D.
Pastoral Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Cupertino, CA 95014
Pastoral Counselor: Pastoral Marriage and Family Counselor, & Certified Conflict Resolution Mediator, Ph.D. in Pastoral Counseling - Atlantic Coast Seminary, Ph.D. in Theology - Atlantic Coast Seminary, MA in Counseling Psychology Marriage and Family Therapy - University of San Francisco, MDiv - St. Patrick’s Seminary & University, BA in Business Management - San Jose State University, Clinical Pastoral Counseling Training (CPE) - Stanford University Hospital and Clinics Conflict Resolution Mediation Certification - National Conflict Resolution Center Sex Addiction Training - American Association for Sex Addiction Therapy (AASAT).
Pastoral Counselor: Pastoral Marriage and Family Counselor, & Certified Conflict Resolution Mediator, Ph.D. in Pastoral Counseling - Atlantic Coast Seminary, Ph.D. in Theology - Atlantic Coast Seminary, MA in Counseling Psychology Marriage and Family Therapy - University of San Francisco, MDiv - St. Patrick’s Seminary & University, BA in Business Management - San Jose State University, Clinical Pastoral Counseling Training (CPE) - Stanford University Hospital and Clinics Conflict Resolution Mediation Certification - National Conflict Resolution Center Sex Addiction Training - American Association for Sex Addiction Therapy (AASAT).
(408) 590-5847 View (408) 590-5847
Photo of Nickolas Persons, LCPC, Counselor
Nickolas Persons
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Cupertino, CA 95014
I am comfortable treating depressive and anxious disorders, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia-spectrum disorders, co-occurring and substance use disorders, and stress-related disorders.
Hello, my name is Nick Persons, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California looking for new clients. My approach is, first and foremost, person-centered; I believe there is no one-size-fits-all technique, so I like to meet my clients where they are and start with where they feel comfortable to help them become better prepared to navigate the obstacles they encounter in their lives.
I am comfortable treating depressive and anxious disorders, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia-spectrum disorders, co-occurring and substance use disorders, and stress-related disorders.
Hello, my name is Nick Persons, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California looking for new clients. My approach is, first and foremost, person-centered; I believe there is no one-size-fits-all technique, so I like to meet my clients where they are and start with where they feel comfortable to help them become better prepared to navigate the obstacles they encounter in their lives.
(408) 583-6430 View (408) 583-6430
Photo of Laura Crabb, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Crabb
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cupertino, CA 95014  (Online Only)
Welcome, and congratulations! Finding the right therapist is a big step. If you'd like to understand how your mind causes you mischief--anxiety, stress, depression, anger, addictions, or relationship problems--I can help you to pursue these goals. I have many years of experience in mindfulness meditation and practice, and a thorough understanding of how our thoughts, stories, and assumptions result in increased stress or increased happiness. I also make good use of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy in helping adults and teens with sexual abuse or addiction issues. Clients tell me that I am "an easy person to talk to."
Welcome, and congratulations! Finding the right therapist is a big step. If you'd like to understand how your mind causes you mischief--anxiety, stress, depression, anger, addictions, or relationship problems--I can help you to pursue these goals. I have many years of experience in mindfulness meditation and practice, and a thorough understanding of how our thoughts, stories, and assumptions result in increased stress or increased happiness. I also make good use of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy in helping adults and teens with sexual abuse or addiction issues. Clients tell me that I am "an easy person to talk to."
(408) 412-5613 View (408) 412-5613
Photo of Brandy Dunn - Silver Lake Psychology, PsyD, Psychologist
Silver Lake Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Cupertino, CA 95014
Relationship and sexual concerns, couples therapy, anxiety, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, stress management, insomnia, women's issues, creativity, LGBTQ- welcome.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others, and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability, and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience.
Relationship and sexual concerns, couples therapy, anxiety, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, stress management, insomnia, women's issues, creativity, LGBTQ- welcome.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others, and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability, and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience.
(415) 484-0997 View (415) 484-0997
Photo of Mark Acuna, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mark Acuna
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cupertino, CA 95014
Mark Anthony Acuna is a licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT 78330) with over 20 years of clinical experience. He specializes in working with clients dealing with PTSD, substance abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety, autism, and grief and loss, as well as clients working on building their self-esteem. Mark is engaging and thoughtful in his treatment methodology; employing a client-centered therapy approach, which highlights the strengths of his clients in order to facilitate a smoother therapeutic healing process.
Mark Anthony Acuna is a licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT 78330) with over 20 years of clinical experience. He specializes in working with clients dealing with PTSD, substance abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety, autism, and grief and loss, as well as clients working on building their self-esteem. Mark is engaging and thoughtful in his treatment methodology; employing a client-centered therapy approach, which highlights the strengths of his clients in order to facilitate a smoother therapeutic healing process.
(661) 493-8892 View (661) 493-8892
Photo of Patricia Aston, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Aston
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cupertino, CA 95014
For individuals dealing with addiction, I use evidence-based approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and relapse prevention strategies.
Hey there I am Patricia Ann Aston. I am an experienced marriage and family therapist with a focus on helping individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma as well as PTSD. I understand the unique challenges that these issues can bring into people's lives. My approach to therapy is compassionate, evidence-based, and tailored to the specific needs of each client. I help clients manage their depression and anxiety through a combination of therapeutic techniques, including mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and cognitive restructuring. I also explore the role of underlying issues and trauma in these conditions.
For individuals dealing with addiction, I use evidence-based approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and relapse prevention strategies.
Hey there I am Patricia Ann Aston. I am an experienced marriage and family therapist with a focus on helping individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma as well as PTSD. I understand the unique challenges that these issues can bring into people's lives. My approach to therapy is compassionate, evidence-based, and tailored to the specific needs of each client. I help clients manage their depression and anxiety through a combination of therapeutic techniques, including mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and cognitive restructuring. I also explore the role of underlying issues and trauma in these conditions.
(949) 990-5836 View (949) 990-5836
Photo of Joanna Leung, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joanna Leung
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cupertino, CA 95014
Not accepting new clients
I have experience in treating children, adolescent, and adults struggling with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Addiction, and Adjustment Disorder.
We all go through ups and downs and it's okay to be not okay, I am here to help. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have been in the field for 5+ years. You might be thinking "What can she do anyway? I've done this before; I've heard it all." Or, you have never been to therapy and would like to give it a try. Either way, I am glad that you are here and would like to help you to begin the journey to heal.
I have experience in treating children, adolescent, and adults struggling with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Addiction, and Adjustment Disorder.
We all go through ups and downs and it's okay to be not okay, I am here to help. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have been in the field for 5+ years. You might be thinking "What can she do anyway? I've done this before; I've heard it all." Or, you have never been to therapy and would like to give it a try. Either way, I am glad that you are here and would like to help you to begin the journey to heal.
(408) 404-5602 View (408) 404-5602
Photo of Lily Lu, MBA, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lily Lu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Cupertino, CA 95014  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stressed? Do you wake up moody? Is your anger affecting your loved ones? Has your addiction isolated you? Is your relationship suffering? You can feel better and enjoy your life. Sometimes you just need a bit of guidance to find tools and techniques that help you. I shine a light on your toolbox so that you can find the right tools to take charge of your life.
Are you feeling stressed? Do you wake up moody? Is your anger affecting your loved ones? Has your addiction isolated you? Is your relationship suffering? You can feel better and enjoy your life. Sometimes you just need a bit of guidance to find tools and techniques that help you. I shine a light on your toolbox so that you can find the right tools to take charge of your life.
(408) 797-7067 View (408) 797-7067
Photo of Pooja Shah, PsyD, Psychologist
Pooja Shah
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cupertino, CA 95014
I specialize in substance and food addiction, personality disorders, grief, loss and trauma.
If you are exhausted with trying the same thing over and over, I can help. I will help you identify areas and habits that keep you stuck and learn skills to help you move forward. I tend to be direct and honest with clients and encourage feedback from you as we move forward. If you feel something does not work for you, I am open to switching gears toward what you believe will help you. However, in saying that, I too will be honest with you regarding your progress, strengths, barriers, and hesitations or patterns of behaviors that I observe. I enjoy working with clients who are open to joking, humor, and banter.
I specialize in substance and food addiction, personality disorders, grief, loss and trauma.
If you are exhausted with trying the same thing over and over, I can help. I will help you identify areas and habits that keep you stuck and learn skills to help you move forward. I tend to be direct and honest with clients and encourage feedback from you as we move forward. If you feel something does not work for you, I am open to switching gears toward what you believe will help you. However, in saying that, I too will be honest with you regarding your progress, strengths, barriers, and hesitations or patterns of behaviors that I observe. I enjoy working with clients who are open to joking, humor, and banter.
(331) 215-9767 View (331) 215-9767
Photo of Ellen Noon, LMFT, CSAT, CEMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ellen Noon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, CEMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cupertino, CA 95014  (Online Only)
I am a sex therapist and couples counselor. I provide expert care for couples’ issues, intimacy struggles, sexual struggles, infidelity, sexual compulsivity, sexual addiction and trauma. My goal is to create an intimate space where both partners can share their experience and feelings. I also work with individuals on their relationship issues. My intention is to share a journey that will allow you to unlock the whatever it is that is keeping you from having a happy, fulfilling life. The work that you do now can positively impact you and your partner for a life time. If you are serious about change deep transformation is possible.
I am a sex therapist and couples counselor. I provide expert care for couples’ issues, intimacy struggles, sexual struggles, infidelity, sexual compulsivity, sexual addiction and trauma. My goal is to create an intimate space where both partners can share their experience and feelings. I also work with individuals on their relationship issues. My intention is to share a journey that will allow you to unlock the whatever it is that is keeping you from having a happy, fulfilling life. The work that you do now can positively impact you and your partner for a life time. If you are serious about change deep transformation is possible.
(669) 254-3007 View (669) 254-3007
Photo of Lois Sharp, PhD, Psychologist
Lois Sharp
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cupertino, CA 95014
I enjoy working with people who have addictions or anxiety or something else weighing them down, working with them for a relatively short period of time, and watching them become energized and passionate about their lives. I believe that my clients know themselves better than anyone else. I work to help my clients achieve their goals. I believe I can best serve people by using what research has shown to be effective. I do not believe therapy should take a long time; most of my clients graduate within 3-6 months. I work on an time-sensitive basis so some require more sessions.
I enjoy working with people who have addictions or anxiety or something else weighing them down, working with them for a relatively short period of time, and watching them become energized and passionate about their lives. I believe that my clients know themselves better than anyone else. I work to help my clients achieve their goals. I believe I can best serve people by using what research has shown to be effective. I do not believe therapy should take a long time; most of my clients graduate within 3-6 months. I work on an time-sensitive basis so some require more sessions.
(408) 896-5972 View (408) 896-5972
Photo of Connie Kay, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Connie Kay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cupertino, CA 95014
Do you find yourself having the same conversation with your partner and getting nowhere? Do you have changes you want to make but don't know where to start? Do you have addictions or patterns of behavior that you would like to change? Are you down, frustrated, tired, depressed, angry, sad? Are you in transition and need help sorting things out? Do you need help in communicating with a family member or friend? Are you unhappy with your initmate relationship, or want to explore new things? Do you experience shame or guilt related to your sexuality and unspoken desires? Are you wondering "Is there more to life?"
Do you find yourself having the same conversation with your partner and getting nowhere? Do you have changes you want to make but don't know where to start? Do you have addictions or patterns of behavior that you would like to change? Are you down, frustrated, tired, depressed, angry, sad? Are you in transition and need help sorting things out? Do you need help in communicating with a family member or friend? Are you unhappy with your initmate relationship, or want to explore new things? Do you experience shame or guilt related to your sexuality and unspoken desires? Are you wondering "Is there more to life?"
(408) 868-5498 View (408) 868-5498
Photo of Simone Brooks, Marriage & Family Therapist
Simone Brooks
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cupertino, CA 95014
For the last 26 years, I have engaged with a variety of people and their issues while always attempting to help them make sense of what they need to do to enhance their own lives. I am curious, attentive, non-judgemental, and can offer a safe environment for people to share whatever it is that is so troublesome. I don't adhere to any one modality, I discover with the client what will work best for them with the issues that they bring to the table. I look forward to this new form of therapy as being both a challenge and a convenience that I could not have imagined 26 years ago!
For the last 26 years, I have engaged with a variety of people and their issues while always attempting to help them make sense of what they need to do to enhance their own lives. I am curious, attentive, non-judgemental, and can offer a safe environment for people to share whatever it is that is so troublesome. I don't adhere to any one modality, I discover with the client what will work best for them with the issues that they bring to the table. I look forward to this new form of therapy as being both a challenge and a convenience that I could not have imagined 26 years ago!
(650) 977-4354 View (650) 977-4354
Photo of Holly N Kirth, LMFT, MA, ME, Marriage & Family Therapist
Holly N Kirth
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, ME
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cupertino, CA 95014  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to cope with life’s difficulties? Are you feeling out of control? Hopeless? Whether this is a recent experience or a life long issue, I am here to help. I believe every person has the innate ability and power within themselves to manage life’s challenges and improve yourselves—you just don’t always know how to access it. I will assist you and challenge you into accessing your tools, utilizing your innate strengths, and finding new insights into yourself.
Are you struggling to cope with life’s difficulties? Are you feeling out of control? Hopeless? Whether this is a recent experience or a life long issue, I am here to help. I believe every person has the innate ability and power within themselves to manage life’s challenges and improve yourselves—you just don’t always know how to access it. I will assist you and challenge you into accessing your tools, utilizing your innate strengths, and finding new insights into yourself.
(949) 468-5731 View (949) 468-5731
Photo of Lisa Jiang, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Jiang
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cupertino, CA 95014
Waitlist for new clients
Life is a journey. Inevitably there are highs and lows. If you are hurting and seeking breakthroughs, you don’t have to do it alone. We can walk together as “Fellow Travelers”. I will meet you where you are. I believe that ultimately, you have the wisdom, power and strength to bring the changes you need, because change is your work and your choice. Along the way, I will help you set the stage, in some instances empty it, explore what stands in the way, remove the obstacles to growth, discover with you all the options/possibilities for change. In the safe space where we work together amazing healing and personal growth can happen.
Life is a journey. Inevitably there are highs and lows. If you are hurting and seeking breakthroughs, you don’t have to do it alone. We can walk together as “Fellow Travelers”. I will meet you where you are. I believe that ultimately, you have the wisdom, power and strength to bring the changes you need, because change is your work and your choice. Along the way, I will help you set the stage, in some instances empty it, explore what stands in the way, remove the obstacles to growth, discover with you all the options/possibilities for change. In the safe space where we work together amazing healing and personal growth can happen.
(408) 539-5323 View (408) 539-5323
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.