Addiction Therapists in San Bruno, CA
![Photo of Ginny Pizzardi, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/3d8eb28c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of expertise include self-esteem, relationships, grief, parenting, adoption, trauma and addiction.
Are you struggling in your relationships or personal connections? Suffering from depression or anxiety? Experiencing loss, grief or sadness? Difficulty with work/life balance? You don't need to struggle alone. I'm a psychotherapist with over 40 years of experience, and I'm here to help. Individuals, couples and families call me when they're ready to tackle the problems that make life difficult.
My areas of expertise include self-esteem, relationships, grief, parenting, adoption, trauma and addiction.
Are you struggling in your relationships or personal connections? Suffering from depression or anxiety? Experiencing loss, grief or sadness? Difficulty with work/life balance? You don't need to struggle alone. I'm a psychotherapist with over 40 years of experience, and I'm here to help. Individuals, couples and families call me when they're ready to tackle the problems that make life difficult.
![Photo of Amy F Trusso, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/4fc24359-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I also have extensive experience working with anxiety, depression and PTSD, eating disorders, substance use/abuse, anger issues and performance anxiety.
Does your primary relationship feel stuck? Are you tired of coming up against the same issues and not able to move past them? Has your life (job, children) come between you and your partner? My approach is to be empathic and engaging. I work to provide an environment that will help you to learn and practice emotional skills, improve communication, and develop a keener awareness and understanding of yourself and others. I want you to leave knowing you have several tools in your toolbox to use in daily practice.
I also have extensive experience working with anxiety, depression and PTSD, eating disorders, substance use/abuse, anger issues and performance anxiety.
Does your primary relationship feel stuck? Are you tired of coming up against the same issues and not able to move past them? Has your life (job, children) come between you and your partner? My approach is to be empathic and engaging. I work to provide an environment that will help you to learn and practice emotional skills, improve communication, and develop a keener awareness and understanding of yourself and others. I want you to leave knowing you have several tools in your toolbox to use in daily practice.
![Photo of Bernadette Baltazar, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/42878f84-8a3d-4ad5-b78d-2cd06b2705d0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bernadette Baltazar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Bruno, CA 94066 (Online Only)
I specialized in working with dual-diagnosed clients with substance use disorder & serious & chronic mental health illness Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Borderline, Depression, Anxiety, & Trauma.
Welcome to an empathetic, warm, and collaborative space where self-discovery awaits. As a therapist, my aim is to guide you on life's journey and help you uncover its true meaning. I am here to support you through challenging times by providing coping tools and assisting you in exploring your goals and dreams. Together, we will uncover your innate resilience and foster stronger, more meaningful connections. with a holistic and honest approach, I will help you identify and transform unhealthy thought patterns, enhancing your overall quality of life. Let's embark on a transformative journey towards personal growth and THRIVE.
I specialized in working with dual-diagnosed clients with substance use disorder & serious & chronic mental health illness Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Borderline, Depression, Anxiety, & Trauma.
Welcome to an empathetic, warm, and collaborative space where self-discovery awaits. As a therapist, my aim is to guide you on life's journey and help you uncover its true meaning. I am here to support you through challenging times by providing coping tools and assisting you in exploring your goals and dreams. Together, we will uncover your innate resilience and foster stronger, more meaningful connections. with a holistic and honest approach, I will help you identify and transform unhealthy thought patterns, enhancing your overall quality of life. Let's embark on a transformative journey towards personal growth and THRIVE.
![Photo of Barbara Ochsner-Walsh, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/3d40c1e4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
With more than 20 yrs as a life coach and now a clinical psychologist as well, I work with the elderly and their family members who are experiencing gerontological issues. This can be either within the family or in a residential setting. I work with couples in primary relationships with external issues that can include unemployment, substance abuse, parenting, as well as those specific to the relationship such as communication difficulties and maintaining a healthy sexual/intimate life. For individuals who are stuck in any area, together we'll identify the issues and how to resolve them.
With more than 20 yrs as a life coach and now a clinical psychologist as well, I work with the elderly and their family members who are experiencing gerontological issues. This can be either within the family or in a residential setting. I work with couples in primary relationships with external issues that can include unemployment, substance abuse, parenting, as well as those specific to the relationship such as communication difficulties and maintaining a healthy sexual/intimate life. For individuals who are stuck in any area, together we'll identify the issues and how to resolve them.
![Photo of Oscar F Cervantes, PhD, Psychologist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/3b946574-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Oscar F. Cervantes is a bicultural, Spanish/English bilingual clinical psychologist with a Masters in Sciences in Clinical Counseling and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with over 34 years of academic and clinical experience. He has privileges in some of the most prestigious hospitals in the Bay Area. Dr. Cervantes specializes in cross-cultural psychology, mood and anxiety disorders, cognitive behavioral therapy, and behavioral medicine. In addition to his private practice, he is an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of California, San Francisco Medical School Department of Internal Medicine.
Dr. Oscar F. Cervantes is a bicultural, Spanish/English bilingual clinical psychologist with a Masters in Sciences in Clinical Counseling and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with over 34 years of academic and clinical experience. He has privileges in some of the most prestigious hospitals in the Bay Area. Dr. Cervantes specializes in cross-cultural psychology, mood and anxiety disorders, cognitive behavioral therapy, and behavioral medicine. In addition to his private practice, he is an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of California, San Francisco Medical School Department of Internal Medicine.
![Photo of Nicole McElderry, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/c4babdd3-0b45-4b1a-a632-5fe6b7f95257/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there, my name is Nicole McElderry. I am a LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) with a focus on client centered and holistic approach to therapy. I work collaboratively with clients to help you achieve your goals and help you step into the life you want to be living. I have worked extensively in rural settings where wearing many hats professionally and thinking outside the box is required. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, domestic violence survivors, adoptive and foster families, and veterans.
Hi there, my name is Nicole McElderry. I am a LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) with a focus on client centered and holistic approach to therapy. I work collaboratively with clients to help you achieve your goals and help you step into the life you want to be living. I have worked extensively in rural settings where wearing many hats professionally and thinking outside the box is required. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, domestic violence survivors, adoptive and foster families, and veterans.
![Photo of Tina Paxton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/a9b073e7-b832-4562-8537-9a0c8f83072c/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Tina Paxton. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have been providing therapy for the last 12 years in the State of California. I provide Problem-Solving Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal therapy, and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, divorce/separation, child custody/co-parenting, life transitions, peri-natal/post-partum depression, new parents, parenting issues, ADHD, and work issues.
My name is Tina Paxton. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have been providing therapy for the last 12 years in the State of California. I provide Problem-Solving Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal therapy, and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, divorce/separation, child custody/co-parenting, life transitions, peri-natal/post-partum depression, new parents, parenting issues, ADHD, and work issues.
![Photo of Maggie B. de Vera, PsyD(c), LMFT, CCHT, CLC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6d0ccf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maggie B. de Vera
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD(c), LMFT, CCHT, CLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Bruno, CA 94066
Maggie de Vera is a respected Holistic Practitioner, Therapist, Clinical Supervisor, Life Coach, Trainer & Consultant in the Bay Area. Backed with over 30+ years of extensive experience, education/training and leadership, Maggie is acclaimed in her field for effective work with the most challenging cases and runs a private practice as a Psychotherapist, Clinical Hypnotherapist, Sex Therapist, Life Coach, Speaker/Trainer, Consultant and also the Founder & President/CEO of a Non-profit Agency serving the disadvantaged & high-risk. Maggie focuses on supporting/ empowering her clients to heal and grow to create a healthy & positive life
Maggie de Vera is a respected Holistic Practitioner, Therapist, Clinical Supervisor, Life Coach, Trainer & Consultant in the Bay Area. Backed with over 30+ years of extensive experience, education/training and leadership, Maggie is acclaimed in her field for effective work with the most challenging cases and runs a private practice as a Psychotherapist, Clinical Hypnotherapist, Sex Therapist, Life Coach, Speaker/Trainer, Consultant and also the Founder & President/CEO of a Non-profit Agency serving the disadvantaged & high-risk. Maggie focuses on supporting/ empowering her clients to heal and grow to create a healthy & positive life
![Photo of Annette M Taylor, MA, MFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/3c0f4730-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am now accepting new clients. I work with clients to explore past experiences and life transitions that are affecting their lives. Through weekly sessions, we will work through self exploration, personal concerns and life challenges. We will explore circumstances that can be changed, those that cannot be changed, and how to discern the difference. We will also discuss and practice various coping mechanisms that can help clients improve their lives. Therapy is a gift to yourself!
I am now accepting new clients. I work with clients to explore past experiences and life transitions that are affecting their lives. Through weekly sessions, we will work through self exploration, personal concerns and life challenges. We will explore circumstances that can be changed, those that cannot be changed, and how to discern the difference. We will also discuss and practice various coping mechanisms that can help clients improve their lives. Therapy is a gift to yourself!
![Photo of Lisa M Kelsey, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/43449922-6b0b-4427-9fc4-5c7a9597888c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Therapy means many different things to different people. For some it is a journey of growth, self-awareness, and healing. For others it is necessary for them to survive. For some it is something they are mandated to do, and for many it is something they really want to do. No matter where you fall on this spectrum, I am here to support you through your process. Therapy is about where you are, where you want to go, what you want to explore, and joining you on your experience. I am here to listen, to guide you, focus you, support you and push you when needed.
Therapy means many different things to different people. For some it is a journey of growth, self-awareness, and healing. For others it is necessary for them to survive. For some it is something they are mandated to do, and for many it is something they really want to do. No matter where you fall on this spectrum, I am here to support you through your process. Therapy is about where you are, where you want to go, what you want to explore, and joining you on your experience. I am here to listen, to guide you, focus you, support you and push you when needed.
![Photo of Aliza Shelan, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/5444dd81-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Teen angst? Bring it on! I work with adolescents, teens, and parents in navigating some of the most difficult years. If you are having difficulty connecting with your child, tween, or teen I will assist you with enhancing your connection while simultaneously setting boundaries as a parent. Sounds like a difficult feat? I know! But isn't it from the challenging times that we gain the most? Do you remember what it was like getting through middle school? Many of us would like to forget, however, with assistance it does not have to be so difficult for your child or for you to reach them.
Teen angst? Bring it on! I work with adolescents, teens, and parents in navigating some of the most difficult years. If you are having difficulty connecting with your child, tween, or teen I will assist you with enhancing your connection while simultaneously setting boundaries as a parent. Sounds like a difficult feat? I know! But isn't it from the challenging times that we gain the most? Do you remember what it was like getting through middle school? Many of us would like to forget, however, with assistance it does not have to be so difficult for your child or for you to reach them.
![Photo of Toni-Joan Mocci - Octave - Oakland Clinic, PhD, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/e4b88c14-b79f-4e91-a944-a30d8de01b76/1/320x400.jpeg)
Octave - Oakland Clinic
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Bruno, CA 94066 (Online Only)
Octave is a modern practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. With in-person and virtual clinics in California, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington D.C., we partner with you to develop personalized plans that can include individual, couples, and family therapy to best suit your needs. Grounded in science, our approach enables you to experience profound change that is just as measurable as it is meaningful. Learn more at www.findoctave.com
Octave is a modern practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. With in-person and virtual clinics in California, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington D.C., we partner with you to develop personalized plans that can include individual, couples, and family therapy to best suit your needs. Grounded in science, our approach enables you to experience profound change that is just as measurable as it is meaningful. Learn more at www.findoctave.com
![Photo of Stephen Chen, PsyD, Psychologist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/218ffd37-f3b1-4e1e-b2e8-fd2c4891d3b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe every person has a unique story, and my open, compassionate approach reflects my respect and desire to help. In working together, we will create a therapy plan tailored around your coping style, relational patterns, and most importantly- your goals. No matter what you come in for (anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, identity questions, personality issues, career issues, etc.), I will meet you where you are in life, and work actively to understand your situation and collaborate on the best treatment plan.
I believe every person has a unique story, and my open, compassionate approach reflects my respect and desire to help. In working together, we will create a therapy plan tailored around your coping style, relational patterns, and most importantly- your goals. No matter what you come in for (anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, identity questions, personality issues, career issues, etc.), I will meet you where you are in life, and work actively to understand your situation and collaborate on the best treatment plan.
![Photo of Marjorie E Sturdy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/ac8c2dfc-dfc7-41c0-9764-ce7386a57262/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mental illness is a part of life for many and it should not be viewed as shameful or embarrassing. I am here to provide a supportive, confidential, non judgmental environment for people to heal from whatever illness they may suffer from. Weather you are depressed, anxious, grieving, or adjusting to life's circumstances everyone needs help, at times, to heal. I am part listener, part teacher, and part encourager. I listen to clients to help them understand their feelings. I teach clients tools to identify their healthiest path for healing and I encourage them to make the types of changes they need to increase their joy in life.
Mental illness is a part of life for many and it should not be viewed as shameful or embarrassing. I am here to provide a supportive, confidential, non judgmental environment for people to heal from whatever illness they may suffer from. Weather you are depressed, anxious, grieving, or adjusting to life's circumstances everyone needs help, at times, to heal. I am part listener, part teacher, and part encourager. I listen to clients to help them understand their feelings. I teach clients tools to identify their healthiest path for healing and I encourage them to make the types of changes they need to increase their joy in life.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of John T Duda, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/47ab365b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treating anxiety disorders, depression, substance abuse, pornography addiction, sexual disorders, and couples therapy.
I have been doing individual and couples therapy for over 25 years. I help clients reduce anxiety and depression through cognitive behavioral therapy. I work with substance abuse and addiction issues and teach coping skills. Helping couples improve communication and teach problem solving skills is one of my primary objectives. My ability to connect with people is very strong and I am often told that I am very easy to talk to and confide in and trust.
I specialize in treating anxiety disorders, depression, substance abuse, pornography addiction, sexual disorders, and couples therapy.
I have been doing individual and couples therapy for over 25 years. I help clients reduce anxiety and depression through cognitive behavioral therapy. I work with substance abuse and addiction issues and teach coping skills. Helping couples improve communication and teach problem solving skills is one of my primary objectives. My ability to connect with people is very strong and I am often told that I am very easy to talk to and confide in and trust.
![Photo of Alexander Gilburd, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/aa03e201-33a2-4f54-ac10-93704e527b7b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alexander Gilburd
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080 (Online Only)
I also help people who are struggling with substance abuse, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, and schizophrenia.
I believe in people’s innate ability to persevere and evolve through their struggles. Everyone has an innate potential to achieve their goals if given the proper nourishment and environment. As a therapist, I strive to provide that environment. I help patients find their path towards their own peace of mind. I foster a trusting and caring relationship with my patients, focusing on the unique and fascinating experiences that every individual brings to the table.
I also help people who are struggling with substance abuse, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, and schizophrenia.
I believe in people’s innate ability to persevere and evolve through their struggles. Everyone has an innate potential to achieve their goals if given the proper nourishment and environment. As a therapist, I strive to provide that environment. I help patients find their path towards their own peace of mind. I foster a trusting and caring relationship with my patients, focusing on the unique and fascinating experiences that every individual brings to the table.
![Photo of Patricia Mary Pike - Patricia Pike: Certified Intervention Professional, LAADC, CADC II, CIP, CCIP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/fded0af6-2935-4669-9f64-42fec2dcb514/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Pike: Certified Intervention Professional
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAADC, CADC II, CIP, CCIP
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080
Patricia M. Pike, CEO of CanAm Interventions, Certified Interventionist & Addiction Specialist, is a trained expert with over 25 years of professional experience in the field of behavioral heath treatment, specializing in addiction and alcoholism. Ms. Pike holds a master accredited certification in addiction studies, conducts successful interventions nationally and internationally. Patricia is a Licensed Advance Alcohol Drug Counselor (LAADC), Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC-II), long standing member of the Canadian Addiction Counselor Association Federation, internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor.
Patricia M. Pike, CEO of CanAm Interventions, Certified Interventionist & Addiction Specialist, is a trained expert with over 25 years of professional experience in the field of behavioral heath treatment, specializing in addiction and alcoholism. Ms. Pike holds a master accredited certification in addiction studies, conducts successful interventions nationally and internationally. Patricia is a Licensed Advance Alcohol Drug Counselor (LAADC), Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC-II), long standing member of the Canadian Addiction Counselor Association Federation, internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor.
![Photo of Lindsay Olshan, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/ad45ccc4-9c57-4579-983d-9ed1a858bab0/3/320x400.png)
Lindsay Olshan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South San Francisco, CA 94080
My experience includes treating symptoms such as addiction, depression, anxiety, PTSD, self-esteem and self-image issues as well as relationship issues.
My goal is to help people regain balance in their lives, deepen their understanding of self and achieve a level of awareness that alleviates helplessness and creates choice and ultimate change.
My experience includes treating symptoms such as addiction, depression, anxiety, PTSD, self-esteem and self-image issues as well as relationship issues.
My goal is to help people regain balance in their lives, deepen their understanding of self and achieve a level of awareness that alleviates helplessness and creates choice and ultimate change.
![Photo of Louis Morello, PhD, Psychologist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/e8051aa8-7bcb-4d02-a4fd-fd400eb03662/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychologist I evaluate and treat individuals who seek help for depression, anxiety, life dissatisfaction (from relationships and work stress), relational trauma (e.g. childhood abuse and emotional neglect) and addiction/compulsive behaviors that may co-occur with depression, anxiety or trauma/PTSD. Of note, you do not have to be in crisis to be in therapy; I often work with individuals who are interested in personal growth, long-term recovery issues, regaining meaning and passion after loss and sometimes stopping distressing interpersonal patterns. Treatment is generally trauma-informed and phase-oriented, integrating body-mind interventions and neurobiology. Please visit my website for details,
As a psychologist I evaluate and treat individuals who seek help for depression, anxiety, life dissatisfaction (from relationships and work stress), relational trauma (e.g. childhood abuse and emotional neglect) and addiction/compulsive behaviors that may co-occur with depression, anxiety or trauma/PTSD. Of note, you do not have to be in crisis to be in therapy; I often work with individuals who are interested in personal growth, long-term recovery issues, regaining meaning and passion after loss and sometimes stopping distressing interpersonal patterns. Treatment is generally trauma-informed and phase-oriented, integrating body-mind interventions and neurobiology. Please visit my website for details,
![Photo of Tamara Tucker, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://cdn.statically.io/img/photos.psychologytoday.com/3d5178d3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My style is direct, transparent and positive. All work is supported by solid psychodynamic theory. I am comfortable with challenges. Most of my clients come in to address relationship issues, career and life-stage transitions, depression and anxiety. However, I have considerable experience in areas of disordered eating, addiction, and (Complex)PTSD. I believe that in order for successful transformational work to occur, the therapeutic relationship is central. Therefore, I offer an initial free 20 minute meeting to test for the ineffable 'fit.' I am a private practice out-of-network provider. WEBSITE: tamaratuckermft.com
My style is direct, transparent and positive. All work is supported by solid psychodynamic theory. I am comfortable with challenges. Most of my clients come in to address relationship issues, career and life-stage transitions, depression and anxiety. However, I have considerable experience in areas of disordered eating, addiction, and (Complex)PTSD. I believe that in order for successful transformational work to occur, the therapeutic relationship is central. Therefore, I offer an initial free 20 minute meeting to test for the ineffable 'fit.' I am a private practice out-of-network provider. WEBSITE: tamaratuckermft.com
See more therapy options for San Bruno
Nearby Addiction Therapists Searches for San Bruno
- Alameda
- Belmont
- Burlingame
- Daly City
- Foster City
- Half Moon Bay
- Hillsborough
- Millbrae
- Pacifica
- San Francisco
- San Mateo
- South San Francisco
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.