Addiction Therapists in Stanford, CA

Photo of Laura 'lucy' Moore - Laura "Lucy" Moore, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura "Lucy" Moore, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stanford, CA 94305
Not accepting new clients
Our work may address grief, anxiety, depression, anger, denial, avoidance, isolation, overwhelm, relational discord and addiction.
When life begins to present its inevitable and unexpected crises and losses, you may find yourself in need of support during times of transition and change. Friends and family may not be safe to resource to help you "get over it". My job as your therapist is to support you on your unique journey through adversity toward opportunity. It's my privilege to accompany you on your journey as guide, facilitator and ally with compassion, respect, creativity, expertise and sometimes humor. I commend you on your courage to begin.
Our work may address grief, anxiety, depression, anger, denial, avoidance, isolation, overwhelm, relational discord and addiction.
When life begins to present its inevitable and unexpected crises and losses, you may find yourself in need of support during times of transition and change. Friends and family may not be safe to resource to help you "get over it". My job as your therapist is to support you on your unique journey through adversity toward opportunity. It's my privilege to accompany you on your journey as guide, facilitator and ally with compassion, respect, creativity, expertise and sometimes humor. I commend you on your courage to begin.
(650) 399-9412 View (650) 399-9412
Photo of Brandy Dunn - Silver Lake Psychology, PsyD, Psychologist
Silver Lake Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Stanford, CA 94305
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) 903-4894 View (415) 903-4894
Photo of Brandy Dunn - Silver Lake Psychology, PsyD, Psychologist
Silver Lake Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Stanford, CA 94309
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) 548-4519 View (415) 548-4519
Photo of Simone Brooks, Marriage & Family Therapist
Simone Brooks
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stanford, CA 94305
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 Dr. Marlina Rose Selva, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Marlina Rose Selva
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Stanford, CA 94305  (Online Only)
I work with foster/adopted children and their families, as well as individuals and couples seeking counseling. I help families work through difficulties including depression, anxiety, trauma, school adjustment, attachment, and family conflict. My passion for working with families dates back to my undergraduate training in psychology at UCLA. I have worked extensivley with children, adolescents, and parents on overcoming obstacles related to cognitive, social and emotional needs. Upon special request, I provide in-home therapy services in the Bay Area.
I work with foster/adopted children and their families, as well as individuals and couples seeking counseling. I help families work through difficulties including depression, anxiety, trauma, school adjustment, attachment, and family conflict. My passion for working with families dates back to my undergraduate training in psychology at UCLA. I have worked extensivley with children, adolescents, and parents on overcoming obstacles related to cognitive, social and emotional needs. Upon special request, I provide in-home therapy services in the Bay Area.
(650) 899-8509 View (650) 899-8509
Photo of Kyle Kennedy, PhD, CMPC, Psychologist
Kyle Kennedy
Psychologist, PhD, CMPC
Verified Verified
Stanford, CA 94305
I am licensed psychologist in Texas and California dedicated to helping individuals enhance their well-being. Whether you are simply looking for your child to be assessed for ADHD or you are an elite athlete seeking help, I am here to support you on your journey. With my expertise and experience in Division I athletics, I can assist you in developing goals, increasing focus and motivation, and managing stress and anxiety. My psychological testing services can provide valuable insights into your personality, learning strengths, social skills, and intellect which can be beneficial in both athletics or in your personal life.
I am licensed psychologist in Texas and California dedicated to helping individuals enhance their well-being. Whether you are simply looking for your child to be assessed for ADHD or you are an elite athlete seeking help, I am here to support you on your journey. With my expertise and experience in Division I athletics, I can assist you in developing goals, increasing focus and motivation, and managing stress and anxiety. My psychological testing services can provide valuable insights into your personality, learning strengths, social skills, and intellect which can be beneficial in both athletics or in your personal life.
(903) 257-3956 View (903) 257-3956

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Madeleine (Maddie) Zimmerman, MSW, LCSW, CCTP-I, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madeleine (Maddie) Zimmerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP-I
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94306  (Online Only)
Unlock the power to reclaim control over your life! Whether you’re grappling with the weight of guilt, anxiety or navigating addiction-either your own or a loved one’s-I provide a safe & encouraging space where you can break free from the grips of overwhelm. It’s common to neglect self-care amidst the hustle of work, family, school, personal obligations and/or strained relationships. Together, we will focus on developing alternative strategies, breaking unhelpful patterns, effectively manage anxiety & stress, and nurture healthy & fulfilling relationships. Clients frequently leave session with fresh insights & a clear path forward.
Unlock the power to reclaim control over your life! Whether you’re grappling with the weight of guilt, anxiety or navigating addiction-either your own or a loved one’s-I provide a safe & encouraging space where you can break free from the grips of overwhelm. It’s common to neglect self-care amidst the hustle of work, family, school, personal obligations and/or strained relationships. Together, we will focus on developing alternative strategies, breaking unhelpful patterns, effectively manage anxiety & stress, and nurture healthy & fulfilling relationships. Clients frequently leave session with fresh insights & a clear path forward.
(310) 361-1709 View (310) 361-1709
Photo of Roger Grossman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Roger Grossman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025  (Online Only)
I specialize in couples therapy, addiction counseling and working with victims of trauma, emergency services and veterans.
My name is Roger Grossman I literally wrote to book on how to have a successful marriage: "Making Marriage Work: A User’s Guide To A Successful Marriage" by Roger Grossman, I Am Not The Smile and Nod Therapist. I roll up my sleeves and get in there with you. I have a great BS detector. I’ll call you on your stuff. We’ll laugh (a lot).
I specialize in couples therapy, addiction counseling and working with victims of trauma, emergency services and veterans.
My name is Roger Grossman I literally wrote to book on how to have a successful marriage: "Making Marriage Work: A User’s Guide To A Successful Marriage" by Roger Grossman, I Am Not The Smile and Nod Therapist. I roll up my sleeves and get in there with you. I have a great BS detector. I’ll call you on your stuff. We’ll laugh (a lot).
(858) 533-2684 View (858) 533-2684
Photo of Dee-Dee Stout, MA, MINT, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Dee-Dee Stout
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, MINT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94301
"I see things differently." I see you fully able to achieve your goals. I see you as one who likely needs a non-judgmental place to talk about things: your future goals, how drug/alcohol use, etc fits w/that future, & how you see yourself getting there: abstinence, sober curious. moderation. I'm a collaborator, one who's committed to listening deeply & providing a space to talk about anything, for individuals/families/all. I am not a therapist; my main focus is on today & tomorrow though we may visit the past. And I follow the science of change & addiction; it shows there's no one way to recover/change & that's great news!
"I see things differently." I see you fully able to achieve your goals. I see you as one who likely needs a non-judgmental place to talk about things: your future goals, how drug/alcohol use, etc fits w/that future, & how you see yourself getting there: abstinence, sober curious. moderation. I'm a collaborator, one who's committed to listening deeply & providing a space to talk about anything, for individuals/families/all. I am not a therapist; my main focus is on today & tomorrow though we may visit the past. And I follow the science of change & addiction; it shows there's no one way to recover/change & that's great news!
(510) 447-1456 View (510) 447-1456
Photo of Kelly Blaser, MA, LMFT, RYT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Blaser
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RYT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301
The issues I have worked with deeply include relationship struggles, parenting, grief, addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Panic Disorder, and spiritual crises, and co-occurring disorders.
Having a good relationship with oneself is a process and a practice, and can be cultivated through the therapeutic process. Every relationship is dependent on how we talk to ourselves, and this inner conversation is what therapy can shift. If you have the willingness, huge transformation is possible. I am in this field to help people sort out a way through and beyond unnecessary suffering, and towards deep peace with themselves and others. I have successfully treated high-functioning CEOs as well as people traumatized, addicted, and broke. Being human is challenging, and with the right support, beautiful. Call. I can help!
The issues I have worked with deeply include relationship struggles, parenting, grief, addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Panic Disorder, and spiritual crises, and co-occurring disorders.
Having a good relationship with oneself is a process and a practice, and can be cultivated through the therapeutic process. Every relationship is dependent on how we talk to ourselves, and this inner conversation is what therapy can shift. If you have the willingness, huge transformation is possible. I am in this field to help people sort out a way through and beyond unnecessary suffering, and towards deep peace with themselves and others. I have successfully treated high-functioning CEOs as well as people traumatized, addicted, and broke. Being human is challenging, and with the right support, beautiful. Call. I can help!
(831) 346-1195 View (831) 346-1195
Photo of Melissa O'Donnell, PsyD, Psychologist
Melissa O'Donnell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306
I specialize in treating a wide-range of challenges including addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and relationship stress.
The decision to enter therapy can be a difficult one. For many, recent and/or previous stressors have begun to feel insurmountable, and seem to be getting in the way of living a full, meaningful life. I strive to provide a safe, supportive, and accepting atmosphere in order to truly understand each individual's lived-experience. I also work together with my clients, flexibly tailoring evidence-based interventions to best meet their unique needs and goals. In doing so, I help clients to develop greater awareness of their strengths, build resiliency, and learn new strategies for overcoming emotional suffering.
I specialize in treating a wide-range of challenges including addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and relationship stress.
The decision to enter therapy can be a difficult one. For many, recent and/or previous stressors have begun to feel insurmountable, and seem to be getting in the way of living a full, meaningful life. I strive to provide a safe, supportive, and accepting atmosphere in order to truly understand each individual's lived-experience. I also work together with my clients, flexibly tailoring evidence-based interventions to best meet their unique needs and goals. In doing so, I help clients to develop greater awareness of their strengths, build resiliency, and learn new strategies for overcoming emotional suffering.
(628) 214-7502 View (628) 214-7502
Photo of Evelyn Turner - Evelyn Turner, PsyD Licensed Psychologist, PsyD, Psychologist
Evelyn Turner, PsyD Licensed Psychologist
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94301
I have experience working in supporting clients experiencing depression, anxiety, eating disorders, life transition, addiction, PTSD and mood disorders.
Welcome, I’m so glad you’re here. Starting therapy can be a daunting process, I take a collaborative approach so that together, we create change that leads to a life well lived. I utilize therapeutic techniques that serve as a set of tools that can support you in the most challenging seasons of your life. I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) with strong influences from Person-Centered Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). The therapeutic relationship we will build will be used as an agent for change. As we work together, we will develop meaningful and reasonable goals that feel empowering.
I have experience working in supporting clients experiencing depression, anxiety, eating disorders, life transition, addiction, PTSD and mood disorders.
Welcome, I’m so glad you’re here. Starting therapy can be a daunting process, I take a collaborative approach so that together, we create change that leads to a life well lived. I utilize therapeutic techniques that serve as a set of tools that can support you in the most challenging seasons of your life. I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) with strong influences from Person-Centered Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). The therapeutic relationship we will build will be used as an agent for change. As we work together, we will develop meaningful and reasonable goals that feel empowering.
(805) 210-8465 View (805) 210-8465
Photo of Raya Smail, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Raya Smail
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301
If you have made your way to this page, you are probably struggling with a "relationship problem"--either with someone else, or with yourself. This is likely causing you significant emotional pain. Your predicament may have been triggered by a recent event, such as loss or trauma, or may have lingered and festered for years. Your symptoms may vary--you may experience persistent discontent, loneliness, emptiness...; have difficulty finding or sustaining a relationship, or have a spouse who wants you to get "fixed".You may be battling addiction or a destructive behavior that is thwarting your life, but impossible to give up, despite endless attempts.
If you have made your way to this page, you are probably struggling with a "relationship problem"--either with someone else, or with yourself. This is likely causing you significant emotional pain. Your predicament may have been triggered by a recent event, such as loss or trauma, or may have lingered and festered for years. Your symptoms may vary--you may experience persistent discontent, loneliness, emptiness...; have difficulty finding or sustaining a relationship, or have a spouse who wants you to get "fixed".You may be battling addiction or a destructive behavior that is thwarting your life, but impossible to give up, despite endless attempts.
(415) 766-0949 View (415) 766-0949
Photo of Sally Anne Broder - Dr . Sally Broder, PsyD, PsyD, SAP, Psychologist
Dr . Sally Broder, PsyD
Psychologist, PsyD, SAP
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306
I specialize in trauma and addiction issues and breaking through invisible but tough internal barriers to a full life.
Hello, I know seeking out a therapist is a bit intimidating and an important decision. I provide a warm environment, inviting my clients to get acquainted with themselves on a deeper level. In this process, healthy changes can manifest and possibilities that have seemed out of reach can begin to be considered and worked towards. Therapy is now available via Zoom. I particularly like to help clients to help themselves get unstuck from unhealthy patterns as well as getting their energy flowing positively and creatively. Working collaboratively we can identify what is blocking you from getting to where you want to be in your life.
I specialize in trauma and addiction issues and breaking through invisible but tough internal barriers to a full life.
Hello, I know seeking out a therapist is a bit intimidating and an important decision. I provide a warm environment, inviting my clients to get acquainted with themselves on a deeper level. In this process, healthy changes can manifest and possibilities that have seemed out of reach can begin to be considered and worked towards. Therapy is now available via Zoom. I particularly like to help clients to help themselves get unstuck from unhealthy patterns as well as getting their energy flowing positively and creatively. Working collaboratively we can identify what is blocking you from getting to where you want to be in your life.
(415) 226-6132 View (415) 226-6132
Photo of Dr. Brandon Mason - Resilience Collective Psychology Group, PsyD, Psychologist
Resilience Collective Psychology Group
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94304  (Online Only)
It's good to meet you. I'm Brandon Mason, a licensed psychologist, specializing in supporting individuals dealing with anxiety. I am also certified in exposure therapy for OCD and can help with trauma and addiction. I can also help with trauma, bipolar disorder, BPD.
It's good to meet you. I'm Brandon Mason, a licensed psychologist, specializing in supporting individuals dealing with anxiety. I am also certified in exposure therapy for OCD and can help with trauma and addiction. I can also help with trauma, bipolar disorder, BPD.
(559) 462-8504 View (559) 462-8504
Photo of Sarah Whitmore Boe, MA, SUDCC, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sarah Whitmore Boe
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, SUDCC, AMFT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301
I have extensive personal and professional experience with addiction and it's effects on both the individual and the family dynamic.
Are your habits getting in the way of living your best life? Do you consider yourself a "functioning" substance user? Maybe you are ready to change but 12-step programs or rehab are not for you. My approach is coaching-based, and solution focused. Sessions focus on authentic self-discovery, recognizing and removing patterns that are keeping you stuck, setting realistic goals, and developing strategy to achieve them. I work well with individuals in a transition period of their lives, and with those who are motivated to make a change. I will help you develop a plan and accountability.
I have extensive personal and professional experience with addiction and it's effects on both the individual and the family dynamic.
Are your habits getting in the way of living your best life? Do you consider yourself a "functioning" substance user? Maybe you are ready to change but 12-step programs or rehab are not for you. My approach is coaching-based, and solution focused. Sessions focus on authentic self-discovery, recognizing and removing patterns that are keeping you stuck, setting realistic goals, and developing strategy to achieve them. I work well with individuals in a transition period of their lives, and with those who are motivated to make a change. I will help you develop a plan and accountability.
(805) 429-6428 View (805) 429-6428
Photo of Joyce Schmid, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joyce Schmid
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306  (Online Only)
My typical client is an adult of exceptional intelligence, creativity, achievement, and kindness, who needs to address problems in his or her life. These problems include depression, anxiety, the disease of addiction, childhood trauma,the addictions of others, and/or difficulties in forming or enjoying relationships. Too many people emerge from childhood with wounds from parental loss, abuse, or neglect. Some carry genetic loadings for addiction. The aftermath of these is devastating, despite success and "looking good." Revealing the pain to another person and revising basic assumptions about yourself and others in a safe relationship can help.
My typical client is an adult of exceptional intelligence, creativity, achievement, and kindness, who needs to address problems in his or her life. These problems include depression, anxiety, the disease of addiction, childhood trauma,the addictions of others, and/or difficulties in forming or enjoying relationships. Too many people emerge from childhood with wounds from parental loss, abuse, or neglect. Some carry genetic loadings for addiction. The aftermath of these is devastating, despite success and "looking good." Revealing the pain to another person and revising basic assumptions about yourself and others in a safe relationship can help.
(650) 629-7185 View (650) 629-7185
Photo of Lea Goldstein, PhD, Psychologist
Lea Goldstein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Welcome to my practice. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, or other issues impacting your ability to live your life to its fullest, I would be happy to speak with you about working together. I am a clinical psychologist with over 25 years experience working with individuals, couples, and families. My work focuses on both internal stumbling blocks to feeling better and on interpersonal problems with important people in your life. We will focus on leveraging your strengths to tackle the difficulties you are experiencing.
Welcome to my practice. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, or other issues impacting your ability to live your life to its fullest, I would be happy to speak with you about working together. I am a clinical psychologist with over 25 years experience working with individuals, couples, and families. My work focuses on both internal stumbling blocks to feeling better and on interpersonal problems with important people in your life. We will focus on leveraging your strengths to tackle the difficulties you are experiencing.
(650) 453-8950 View (650) 453-8950
Photo of Christine Rivlin, LPCC, Counselor
Christine Rivlin
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301
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.
(408) 418-2143 View (408) 418-2143
Photo of Monica Dyer, PsyD(c), Psychological Associate
Monica Dyer
Psychological Associate, PsyD(c)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94301  (Online Only)
My expertise is in treating couples, addiction, codependency, burnout, trauma, and relationship wounds.
The way you've gone through life is not working for you anymore, and you don’t know why. You are ready to explore why you repeat things that are not working for you but you're finding that some issues are difficult to confront alone. I'm here to help. I work with adults, couples, and teens to transform unhelpful beliefs, burdens or habits that keep them stuck. People come to me seeking someone who's done their own work and can help guide them through theirs—someone who is highly trained, compassionate, and honest. You can create a life that you are proud of in therapy.
My expertise is in treating couples, addiction, codependency, burnout, trauma, and relationship wounds.
The way you've gone through life is not working for you anymore, and you don’t know why. You are ready to explore why you repeat things that are not working for you but you're finding that some issues are difficult to confront alone. I'm here to help. I work with adults, couples, and teens to transform unhelpful beliefs, burdens or habits that keep them stuck. People come to me seeking someone who's done their own work and can help guide them through theirs—someone who is highly trained, compassionate, and honest. You can create a life that you are proud of in therapy.
(805) 422-7350 View (805) 422-7350
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.