Addiction Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Carolyn Coker Ross, MD, MPH
Carolyn Coker Ross
MD, MPH
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123  (Online Only)
I am board certified in Preventive Medicine and Addiction Medicine (by exam) and completed a two year fellowship in Dr.
Carolyn Coker Ross, MD, MPH, CEDS (www.carolynrossmd.com) is an African American author, speaker, expert the treatment of eating disorders, trauma and addictions and is board certified in Preventive Medicine and in Addiction Medicine. Dr. Ross presented a TEDxPleasantGrove talk on “Historical and Intergenerational Trauma in January 2020. She is the author of 3 books on eating disorders, the most recent is “The Food Addiction Recovery Workbook.” She is a contributing author to : “Treating Black Women with Eating Disorders: A Clinician’s Guide.” She is co-founder of the Institute for Antiracism and Equity (antiracismandequity.com).
I am board certified in Preventive Medicine and Addiction Medicine (by exam) and completed a two year fellowship in Dr.
Carolyn Coker Ross, MD, MPH, CEDS (www.carolynrossmd.com) is an African American author, speaker, expert the treatment of eating disorders, trauma and addictions and is board certified in Preventive Medicine and in Addiction Medicine. Dr. Ross presented a TEDxPleasantGrove talk on “Historical and Intergenerational Trauma in January 2020. She is the author of 3 books on eating disorders, the most recent is “The Food Addiction Recovery Workbook.” She is a contributing author to : “Treating Black Women with Eating Disorders: A Clinician’s Guide.” She is co-founder of the Institute for Antiracism and Equity (antiracismandequity.com).
(833) 686-9533 View (833) 686-9533
Photo of Matthew H. Koch - Matthew H. Koch, Marriage & Family Therapist, Inc., LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Matthew H. Koch, Marriage & Family Therapist, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
The services I offer address issues that interfere with a more genuine and fulfilling lifestyle including: addiction, co-dependence, family and relationship problems, symptoms associated with various Mood, Anxiety, Psychotic, and Personality Disorders, difficulties with transition, challenges acculturating, depression, anxiety, mood instability, low self-esteem, trauma, and problems communicating.
Confronting the challenges that accompany our lives can be daunting and result in a deviation from the expectations we have of ourselves and those with whom we interact. I am here to assist you in the process to heighten awareness and gain more meaningful and fulfilling experiences in your life through psychotherapy. I utilize the DAFT (Depth & Freedom Therapy) approach that combines various counseling theories and techniques, philosophical tenets, and spiritual teachings to collaborate with clients in order to strengthen individual identity while considering the impact of past experiences, modern day socio-cultural influences, and current personal issues.
The services I offer address issues that interfere with a more genuine and fulfilling lifestyle including: addiction, co-dependence, family and relationship problems, symptoms associated with various Mood, Anxiety, Psychotic, and Personality Disorders, difficulties with transition, challenges acculturating, depression, anxiety, mood instability, low self-esteem, trauma, and problems communicating.
Confronting the challenges that accompany our lives can be daunting and result in a deviation from the expectations we have of ourselves and those with whom we interact. I am here to assist you in the process to heighten awareness and gain more meaningful and fulfilling experiences in your life through psychotherapy. I utilize the DAFT (Depth & Freedom Therapy) approach that combines various counseling theories and techniques, philosophical tenets, and spiritual teachings to collaborate with clients in order to strengthen individual identity while considering the impact of past experiences, modern day socio-cultural influences, and current personal issues.
(619) 376-1244 View (619) 376-1244
Photo of Carolyn Rhoades, MA, LPCC
Carolyn Rhoades
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92130
Whether you are struggling with addiction, abuse or trauma, rejection or loss, I am here to support you.
Distressing thoughts and memories can keep us feeling like we are stranded in the past. Every time we have tried to dig ourselves out, shame, guilt, and overwhelming thoughts keep us feeling stuck. These feelings and thoughts can feel so isolating and exhausting. Traumatic experiences can have a detrimental impact on how individuals cope with stress and regulate emotions. I understand that at various times in our lives we endure situations that can cause distress, leading to unhealthy behaviors and patterns. We can feel completely lost in figuring out how to proceed and it can feel daunting to reach out for support.
Whether you are struggling with addiction, abuse or trauma, rejection or loss, I am here to support you.
Distressing thoughts and memories can keep us feeling like we are stranded in the past. Every time we have tried to dig ourselves out, shame, guilt, and overwhelming thoughts keep us feeling stuck. These feelings and thoughts can feel so isolating and exhausting. Traumatic experiences can have a detrimental impact on how individuals cope with stress and regulate emotions. I understand that at various times in our lives we endure situations that can cause distress, leading to unhealthy behaviors and patterns. We can feel completely lost in figuring out how to proceed and it can feel daunting to reach out for support.
(858) 358-7780 View (858) 358-7780
Photo of Paul M. Whitaker, PhD, Psychologist
Paul M. Whitaker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I have been in practice as a licensed psychologist for over twenty years in California. My areas of expertise include depression and anxiety, relationship and intimacy issues, addiction and recovery, stress and anger management,, work-related and life-transition issues,, physical health and chronic illness.
I have been in practice as a licensed psychologist for over twenty years in California. My areas of expertise include depression and anxiety, relationship and intimacy issues, addiction and recovery, stress and anger management,, work-related and life-transition issues,, physical health and chronic illness.
(619) 800-3970 View (619) 800-3970
Photo of Jessica Blair Sturgill - Mental Health First Counseling Services, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mental Health First Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
Jessica Sturgill, LMFT is a Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, I believe in creating goals and assisting my clients to meet those goals. We address negative thoughts, address negative beliefs all while addressing life's complicated ups and downs . My clients range age 11 to 65 and are seeking help with anxiety, depression, addiction and adjustments in their life (children, divorce, illness). We work together as I help guide my clients of all ages in creating the healthy and happy life they envision for themselves.
Jessica Sturgill, LMFT is a Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, I believe in creating goals and assisting my clients to meet those goals. We address negative thoughts, address negative beliefs all while addressing life's complicated ups and downs . My clients range age 11 to 65 and are seeking help with anxiety, depression, addiction and adjustments in their life (children, divorce, illness). We work together as I help guide my clients of all ages in creating the healthy and happy life they envision for themselves.
(858) 358-7587 View (858) 358-7587
Photo of Pilar M. Placone, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pilar M. Placone
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
I love to work with Couples, Teens, Individuals and Families who have been affected by addiction, abuse, betrayal, illness, financial stress, life trauma/suicide and relationship neglect.
The relationship between therapist and client is one of the most unique and confidential relationships there is. Studies show the alliance the therapist cultivates with his/her/them client is crucial to therapeutic-effectivity. Helping you review your life and identify the changes you want to make is a sacred and respectful process. I provide each client the best quality care and will support you in examining the underlying issues causing pain and discouraging patterns. I am honest, compassionate, directive, and I want you to see promising changes in the life you want and deserve as soon as possible.
I love to work with Couples, Teens, Individuals and Families who have been affected by addiction, abuse, betrayal, illness, financial stress, life trauma/suicide and relationship neglect.
The relationship between therapist and client is one of the most unique and confidential relationships there is. Studies show the alliance the therapist cultivates with his/her/them client is crucial to therapeutic-effectivity. Helping you review your life and identify the changes you want to make is a sacred and respectful process. I provide each client the best quality care and will support you in examining the underlying issues causing pain and discouraging patterns. I am honest, compassionate, directive, and I want you to see promising changes in the life you want and deserve as soon as possible.
(619) 870-1427 View (619) 870-1427
Photo of Hazzel Angulo, AMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Hazzel Angulo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Trauma, anxiety, and addiction can make you feel stuck. The most important step towards healing is to address the unresolved emotion inside you. Healing requires feelings. Acceptance slowly dissolves pain. When we function from the fear and scarring of our trauma, the cycles continue until we learn how to transmute that energy into love. I apply a Holistic approach that integrates physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual forms of well-being, addressing the “whole” self. Through a holistic framework tailored to your unique needs, the goal is to support you develop a deeper understanding of the self on all these levels.
Trauma, anxiety, and addiction can make you feel stuck. The most important step towards healing is to address the unresolved emotion inside you. Healing requires feelings. Acceptance slowly dissolves pain. When we function from the fear and scarring of our trauma, the cycles continue until we learn how to transmute that energy into love. I apply a Holistic approach that integrates physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual forms of well-being, addressing the “whole” self. Through a holistic framework tailored to your unique needs, the goal is to support you develop a deeper understanding of the self on all these levels.
(213) 531-5473 View (213) 531-5473
Photo of Dana Sockolov, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Dana Sockolov
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
My journey into the helping profession started almost a decade ago, when I began recovery from an addiction and eating disorder.
You are someone who struggles with anxiety and fear, and feels stuck in certain areas of your life. Change feels overwhelming, but you can't keep living like this. You have hopes, dreams and goals, but are often confused as to why you can't reach them. Most importantly, you are open and willing to do what it takes to find healing for yourself. My clients are individuals who struggle with anxiety, life changes, and relationship issues. I also work with people in recovery from addictions who need that extra, deeper layer of discovery, and individuals whose lives have been affected by addiction.
My journey into the helping profession started almost a decade ago, when I began recovery from an addiction and eating disorder.
You are someone who struggles with anxiety and fear, and feels stuck in certain areas of your life. Change feels overwhelming, but you can't keep living like this. You have hopes, dreams and goals, but are often confused as to why you can't reach them. Most importantly, you are open and willing to do what it takes to find healing for yourself. My clients are individuals who struggle with anxiety, life changes, and relationship issues. I also work with people in recovery from addictions who need that extra, deeper layer of discovery, and individuals whose lives have been affected by addiction.
(619) 815-4349 View (619) 815-4349
Photo of Dr. Maxwell Maris, PsyD, Psychological Associate
Dr. Maxwell Maris
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
I have immediate openings and will return calls within 24 hours. I utilize well-researched evidence-based practices including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and motivational enhancement for in substance-related work. The focus of our work together is to help you learn the tools to better manage your concerns for the long haul. Additionally, we will build skills in effective communication, stress management, motivation, and psychological flexibility. My clients are individuals and couples who may suffer from depression, anxiety, or who want to figure out how to live a fuller life.
I have immediate openings and will return calls within 24 hours. I utilize well-researched evidence-based practices including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and motivational enhancement for in substance-related work. The focus of our work together is to help you learn the tools to better manage your concerns for the long haul. Additionally, we will build skills in effective communication, stress management, motivation, and psychological flexibility. My clients are individuals and couples who may suffer from depression, anxiety, or who want to figure out how to live a fuller life.
(858) 544-1202 View (858) 544-1202
Photo of Jim Goethel, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jim Goethel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92175  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have 22 years experience treating individuals, families and groups of all ages struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, loss and addiction.
I would like to help you clarify your goals, identify obstacles to reaching those goals, and then work together collaboratively to determine the best method of navigating your life and relationships to achieve personal fulfillment. I believe that attitude and perception significantly impact how individuals deal with pain and conflict, and that exploring problematic areas from different perspectives in a safe, nonjudgmental environment can transform and heal.
I have 22 years experience treating individuals, families and groups of all ages struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, loss and addiction.
I would like to help you clarify your goals, identify obstacles to reaching those goals, and then work together collaboratively to determine the best method of navigating your life and relationships to achieve personal fulfillment. I believe that attitude and perception significantly impact how individuals deal with pain and conflict, and that exploring problematic areas from different perspectives in a safe, nonjudgmental environment can transform and heal.
(619) 452-3038 View (619) 452-3038
Photo of Dr. Hedieh Azadmehr, PhD, SEP, Psychologist
Dr. Hedieh Azadmehr
Psychologist, PhD, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92130
Do traumas from the past hold you back? Are you stuck in addiction and tired of stigmas and judgments? Every time you tried to change, the intrusive negative thoughts and anxiety overwhelm you. it's so scary to think about sharing your secrets with a stranger. I understand how traumatic past experience sets a limit on individuals ability to deal with stress, where the drugs become the solution and how the two are connected. Whether you are struggling with addition, rejection or loss, abuse or trauma, I am here to help. I integrate various therapeutic modalities to tailor treatment based on every individual's unique needs.
Do traumas from the past hold you back? Are you stuck in addiction and tired of stigmas and judgments? Every time you tried to change, the intrusive negative thoughts and anxiety overwhelm you. it's so scary to think about sharing your secrets with a stranger. I understand how traumatic past experience sets a limit on individuals ability to deal with stress, where the drugs become the solution and how the two are connected. Whether you are struggling with addition, rejection or loss, abuse or trauma, I am here to help. I integrate various therapeutic modalities to tailor treatment based on every individual's unique needs.
(858) 758-4409 View (858) 758-4409
Photo of Daniel Powell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniel Powell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92104
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. I'm comfortable working with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, bi-polar, substance abuse, psychosis, autism spectrum disorders and obsessive compulsive disorder. I implement individual evidenced based interventions designed to positive behavior change. I enjoy working with couples, families, parent training, adults and adolescents.
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. I'm comfortable working with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, bi-polar, substance abuse, psychosis, autism spectrum disorders and obsessive compulsive disorder. I implement individual evidenced based interventions designed to positive behavior change. I enjoy working with couples, families, parent training, adults and adolescents.
(619) 305-0826 View (619) 305-0826
Photo of Jennifer Konzen, PsyD, LMFT, CST, CCDC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Konzen
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CST, CCDC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92120  (Online Only)
I work with couples to renew the fire in their love life and sexual relationship, couples affected by addiction, as well as couples who are no longer communicating or are on the brink of divorce. I counsel men and women who have experienced depression, anxiety, and OCD. I work with individuals dealing with grief, trauma, sexual abuse, and childhood or partner violence. I also work with parents and adolescents. I am a Certified Sex Therapist and a Certified Chemical Dependency Counselor.
I work with couples to renew the fire in their love life and sexual relationship, couples affected by addiction, as well as couples who are no longer communicating or are on the brink of divorce. I counsel men and women who have experienced depression, anxiety, and OCD. I work with individuals dealing with grief, trauma, sexual abuse, and childhood or partner violence. I also work with parents and adolescents. I am a Certified Sex Therapist and a Certified Chemical Dependency Counselor.
(858) 217-4992 View (858) 217-4992
Photo of Christina Elizabeth Ames-Cotto - Hope, Growth & Healing Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hope, Growth & Healing Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121  (Online Only)
I have 6 years of experience working with diverse populations with a multitude of different challenges; some of which include intergenerational trauma, substance abuse, domestic violence, relationship conflict, neurodiversity, LGBTQIA, and cultural identity.
Offer Telehealth Only - Life provides happiness as well as its share of challenges. I believe individuals and couples are capable of navigating life but sometimes need a little extra help and compassion. Therapy can be that place where a person can discuss, learn and work through any past or present challenges that may be getting in the way of living a happy and hopeful life.
I have 6 years of experience working with diverse populations with a multitude of different challenges; some of which include intergenerational trauma, substance abuse, domestic violence, relationship conflict, neurodiversity, LGBTQIA, and cultural identity.
Offer Telehealth Only - Life provides happiness as well as its share of challenges. I believe individuals and couples are capable of navigating life but sometimes need a little extra help and compassion. Therapy can be that place where a person can discuss, learn and work through any past or present challenges that may be getting in the way of living a happy and hopeful life.
(619) 776-3039 View (619) 776-3039
Photo of Nathan Feder, Psychological Associate
Nathan Feder
Psychological Associate
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
Hardships can show up unexpectedly and be overwhelming. Processing the past and navigating the future isn't easy. I help couples, families, teens, and young adults grow into better versions of themselves. I frequently work with people who have military, LGBTQ, and neurodivergent (ADHD, autism) backgrounds and their families. Depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction can happen to anyone. Reducing symptoms and improving communication uplifts our confidence, relationships and overall wellbeing.
Hardships can show up unexpectedly and be overwhelming. Processing the past and navigating the future isn't easy. I help couples, families, teens, and young adults grow into better versions of themselves. I frequently work with people who have military, LGBTQ, and neurodivergent (ADHD, autism) backgrounds and their families. Depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction can happen to anyone. Reducing symptoms and improving communication uplifts our confidence, relationships and overall wellbeing.
(858) 330-5181 View (858) 330-5181
Photo of Jon Steele, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jon Steele
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
Athletes or professionals, if you or someone you know struggles with anxiety, grief/loss or addiction, let me help! As a former collegiate athlete and current sports enthusiast, there are complexities that an athlete or professional experiences: pressures of in-game performance, managing high stress, season or career ending injuries, or life transitions after sports career ends. All of these can produce intense anxiety, grief/loss and addiction which can cause shameful, intrusive thought patterns. I focus on combating shame by expanding healthy coping strategies, increasing self kindness, and understanding family patterns.
Athletes or professionals, if you or someone you know struggles with anxiety, grief/loss or addiction, let me help! As a former collegiate athlete and current sports enthusiast, there are complexities that an athlete or professional experiences: pressures of in-game performance, managing high stress, season or career ending injuries, or life transitions after sports career ends. All of these can produce intense anxiety, grief/loss and addiction which can cause shameful, intrusive thought patterns. I focus on combating shame by expanding healthy coping strategies, increasing self kindness, and understanding family patterns.
(619) 494-3583 View (619) 494-3583
Photo of Christine Rivlin, LPCC, Counselor
Christine Rivlin
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing addiction issues, and eating disorders.
I work primarily with adults who are wanting to manage symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I will be with you on your path to discovery, recovery, and finding the person you would like to become. I approach therapy with a client-centered approach in order to create a safe, comfortable space for you to share and express yourself, and your vulnerabilities. We will explore healthy ways to process your trauma, regulate difficult emotions, and restore broken relationships. I believe the trust built between Client and Therapist is powerful, and necessary in order to help you through your healing journey.
I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing addiction issues, and eating disorders.
I work primarily with adults who are wanting to manage symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I will be with you on your path to discovery, recovery, and finding the person you would like to become. I approach therapy with a client-centered approach in order to create a safe, comfortable space for you to share and express yourself, and your vulnerabilities. We will explore healthy ways to process your trauma, regulate difficult emotions, and restore broken relationships. I believe the trust built between Client and Therapist is powerful, and necessary in order to help you through your healing journey.
(760) 206-3607 View (760) 206-3607
Photo of Caleb Abrams, CSAT, CCTP, CLC, MA
Caleb Abrams
CSAT, CCTP, CLC, MA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
Caleb is Christian Counselor, a Certified Sex Addiction Counselor (CSAT), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), Ordained Minister, Certified Life Coach, with a Masters of Psychology in Counseling and a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology. Caleb specializes in helping men work through addiction recovery, anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. His passion is to provide a safe space for his clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
Caleb is Christian Counselor, a Certified Sex Addiction Counselor (CSAT), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), Ordained Minister, Certified Life Coach, with a Masters of Psychology in Counseling and a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology. Caleb specializes in helping men work through addiction recovery, anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. His passion is to provide a safe space for his clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
(619) 597-1491 View (619) 597-1491
Photo of Mikayla Weathers, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mikayla Weathers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92115  (Online Only)
I believe through a therapeutic & safe relationship, you will have the ability to work though past & current struggles. Whether you find yourself having trouble in your relationships, are dealing with a substance related issue, are desiring a better connection with yourself, or are struggling with trauma, I know I can help you, help yourself. My passion is walking along side those suffering to encourage and support healing. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming & support those dealing with gender identity/expression issues; self, family, and community acceptance; & those pre, during & post transition.
I believe through a therapeutic & safe relationship, you will have the ability to work though past & current struggles. Whether you find yourself having trouble in your relationships, are dealing with a substance related issue, are desiring a better connection with yourself, or are struggling with trauma, I know I can help you, help yourself. My passion is walking along side those suffering to encourage and support healing. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming & support those dealing with gender identity/expression issues; self, family, and community acceptance; & those pre, during & post transition.
(619) 350-4755 View (619) 350-4755
Photo of Ashlee Wilson, LPCC
Ashlee Wilson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who specializes in co-occurring (mental health and substance abuse) disorders. I have been practicing for several years and believe in treating clients with mental health and/or substance abuse issues from a holistic approach. While medicine management can be a crucial aspect of treatment, I believe, to aid healing one must consider the human as a whole.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who specializes in co-occurring (mental health and substance abuse) disorders. I have been practicing for several years and believe in treating clients with mental health and/or substance abuse issues from a holistic approach. While medicine management can be a crucial aspect of treatment, I believe, to aid healing one must consider the human as a whole.
(858) 289-0160 View (858) 289-0160
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.