Addiction Therapists in Sunnyvale, CA

Photo of Danielle Murphy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
Hi! My name is Danielle Murphy, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My goal as your therapist is to work comfortably and collaboratively to build a life for you that is peaceful, meaningful, and joyful. I have experience working with anxiety, substance use, depression, life changes and transitions, relationship and family issues, and trauma/PTSD. I like to use a blend of interventions in my practice based on my client's preferences but enjoy blending mindfulness practices, trainspotting, CBT, psychodynamic therapy, and attachment theory, among others. I am constantly learning and evolving my practice in response.
Hi! My name is Danielle Murphy, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My goal as your therapist is to work comfortably and collaboratively to build a life for you that is peaceful, meaningful, and joyful. I have experience working with anxiety, substance use, depression, life changes and transitions, relationship and family issues, and trauma/PTSD. I like to use a blend of interventions in my practice based on my client's preferences but enjoy blending mindfulness practices, trainspotting, CBT, psychodynamic therapy, and attachment theory, among others. I am constantly learning and evolving my practice in response.
(408) 478-9502 View (408) 478-9502
Photo of Scott Henrywestwood Licensed, MA, LAADC, NCAC-II, SAP, IS-E, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Scott Henrywestwood Licensed
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LAADC, NCAC-II, SAP, IS-E
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
Mental health problems and substance abuse are often seen together because one makes you more vulnerable to the other.
Accepting New Clients - My goal is to provide clients with safe, effective, comprehensive, and life-changing counseling-therapy. I use both time tested and cutting-edge methods to break the cycle of poor behaviors. I never suggest to a client to do something that I have not tried myself. I assist the client to stay abstinent from negative behaviors for the long-term, stabilize mental health, and to restore relationships. I enjoy being able to guide a client through the changes they want to make on their life journey. I witness extraordinary miracles daily. Please consider allowing me to help you. Call/text me direct 408 203 0964
Mental health problems and substance abuse are often seen together because one makes you more vulnerable to the other.
Accepting New Clients - My goal is to provide clients with safe, effective, comprehensive, and life-changing counseling-therapy. I use both time tested and cutting-edge methods to break the cycle of poor behaviors. I never suggest to a client to do something that I have not tried myself. I assist the client to stay abstinent from negative behaviors for the long-term, stabilize mental health, and to restore relationships. I enjoy being able to guide a client through the changes they want to make on their life journey. I witness extraordinary miracles daily. Please consider allowing me to help you. Call/text me direct 408 203 0964
(408) 409-8277 View (408) 409-8277
Photo of Francis Abueg, PhD, Psychologist
Francis Abueg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
Clients with histories of trauma and addiction have been the center of a 33-year practice as a clinical psychologist.
You are ready to make a big change finally and this may be your best year ever. Paradoxically, in the midst of greatest stress and suffering you reach out to therapy. After 33 years as a clinical psychologist, I have great confidence that I can partner with you to manage overwhelming pain, loss and fear. More than that, you can reawaken resilience and wisdom, and find your way to great meaning and purpose once again in your life.
Clients with histories of trauma and addiction have been the center of a 33-year practice as a clinical psychologist.
You are ready to make a big change finally and this may be your best year ever. Paradoxically, in the midst of greatest stress and suffering you reach out to therapy. After 33 years as a clinical psychologist, I have great confidence that I can partner with you to manage overwhelming pain, loss and fear. More than that, you can reawaken resilience and wisdom, and find your way to great meaning and purpose once again in your life.
(408) 337-2953 View (408) 337-2953
Photo of David Ellner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Ellner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
Hello, my name is David. I have worked in the mental healthcare field for over 20 years. I have worked with young adults, veterans, individuals diagnosed with severe psychiatric disorders, older adults, and adults struggling with substance abuse disorders, including those suffering from homelessness. My top modalities include Eclectic and Psychodynamic approaches, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness/Meditation. Through a secure-video format, I offer traditional, high-quality therapy to treat a variety of stressful and challenging conditions.
Hello, my name is David. I have worked in the mental healthcare field for over 20 years. I have worked with young adults, veterans, individuals diagnosed with severe psychiatric disorders, older adults, and adults struggling with substance abuse disorders, including those suffering from homelessness. My top modalities include Eclectic and Psychodynamic approaches, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness/Meditation. Through a secure-video format, I offer traditional, high-quality therapy to treat a variety of stressful and challenging conditions.
(747) 281-2874 View (747) 281-2874
Photo of Peter Shum, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Peter Shum
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
Not accepting new clients
I have additional training and experiences in working with people struggling with addiction and people who want to improve their couples relationships.
Our world today is full of challenges. Many stressors in life knock us off balance, and we feel overwhelmed, distressed, sometimes angry, sad and lonely. But you do not need to face the challenges alone. I am passionate to help people regain the balance by being more attuned to themselves - their identities, emotions, and physical needs. I work collaboratively with my clients to explore and identify ways to meet their goals, and provide tools and interventions as fitting. Most importantly, I walk alongside them in their journey to attain health and growth.
I have additional training and experiences in working with people struggling with addiction and people who want to improve their couples relationships.
Our world today is full of challenges. Many stressors in life knock us off balance, and we feel overwhelmed, distressed, sometimes angry, sad and lonely. But you do not need to face the challenges alone. I am passionate to help people regain the balance by being more attuned to themselves - their identities, emotions, and physical needs. I work collaboratively with my clients to explore and identify ways to meet their goals, and provide tools and interventions as fitting. Most importantly, I walk alongside them in their journey to attain health and growth.
(408) 889-7589 View (408) 889-7589
Photo of Liana Kostandyan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liana Kostandyan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
Have you ever asked yourself if a positive change can happen when you can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel? I will say, “Yes, it can!” I am a psychotherapist specializing in treatment for depressive disorders, PTSD, anxiety, impulse control, grief, trauma, and substance use disorders in adolescents and adults. My practice focuses on targeting ineffective behaviors, habits, and beliefs that affect activities of daily functioning. I meet my clients where they are and help them learn how to cope effectively with life stressors to building healthier relationships with themselves and their loved ones.
Have you ever asked yourself if a positive change can happen when you can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel? I will say, “Yes, it can!” I am a psychotherapist specializing in treatment for depressive disorders, PTSD, anxiety, impulse control, grief, trauma, and substance use disorders in adolescents and adults. My practice focuses on targeting ineffective behaviors, habits, and beliefs that affect activities of daily functioning. I meet my clients where they are and help them learn how to cope effectively with life stressors to building healthier relationships with themselves and their loved ones.
(650) 297-0589 View (650) 297-0589
Photo of Andrew Schnell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrew Schnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
This includes areas of community mental health, private practice, residential facilities, foster care, county mental health, juvenile hall, schools, substance abuse and chemical dependency, adults with severe and persistent mental illness, and crisis intervention.
As human beings we learn, develop meaning, and create a sense of purpose through each other and the relationships we form. In the same spirit I believe the therapeutic process is driven by the relationship formed between the client and the therapist. This is why my approach in therapy is guided by the question - "How can I provide a relationship which this person may use for their personal growth?" I strive to create an empathic, nonjudgmental atmosphere where you feel safe and empowered to work toward personal growth and creating lasting change; forming trust and leaning toward vulnerability.
This includes areas of community mental health, private practice, residential facilities, foster care, county mental health, juvenile hall, schools, substance abuse and chemical dependency, adults with severe and persistent mental illness, and crisis intervention.
As human beings we learn, develop meaning, and create a sense of purpose through each other and the relationships we form. In the same spirit I believe the therapeutic process is driven by the relationship formed between the client and the therapist. This is why my approach in therapy is guided by the question - "How can I provide a relationship which this person may use for their personal growth?" I strive to create an empathic, nonjudgmental atmosphere where you feel safe and empowered to work toward personal growth and creating lasting change; forming trust and leaning toward vulnerability.
(650) 405-0646 View (650) 405-0646
Photo of Rebecca Schack, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Schack
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, relational issues, substance use, or other distressing challenges there is hope and a road to healing.
My name is Rebecca Schack LMFT. I am passionate about healing through a holistic framework. My clinical orientation draws from somatic psychotherapy (Core Energetics), trauma treatment (Comprehensive Resource Model), attachment theory, and depth psychology. . I utilize a blend of contemporary approaches to inform and aid in treatment ranging from body reading, attachment theory, neurobiology, energy tracking, breath work, gestalt techniques, DBT, mindfulness, inner child/parts work, as well as resourcing, regulating, and grounding techniques for the central nervous system.
Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, relational issues, substance use, or other distressing challenges there is hope and a road to healing.
My name is Rebecca Schack LMFT. I am passionate about healing through a holistic framework. My clinical orientation draws from somatic psychotherapy (Core Energetics), trauma treatment (Comprehensive Resource Model), attachment theory, and depth psychology. . I utilize a blend of contemporary approaches to inform and aid in treatment ranging from body reading, attachment theory, neurobiology, energy tracking, breath work, gestalt techniques, DBT, mindfulness, inner child/parts work, as well as resourcing, regulating, and grounding techniques for the central nervous system.
(650) 613-4417 View (650) 613-4417
Photo of Bryan Nguyen, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bryan Nguyen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
I specialize in trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, and burnout.
The world has changed in the last few years and many of us have survived as best as we could through innumerable challenges. Sometimes our natural strengths can get us through and other times, we might reach a breaking point. I am here to help others look inside of themselves to find that light again and get through the obstacles that continue to get in our paths to peace and serenity. With my experience as a director of a dual-diagnosis clinic and graduate school professor at the Santa Clara University Counseling Psychology Program, I have gained an immense amount of experience treating countless patients using a medical model.
I specialize in trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, and burnout.
The world has changed in the last few years and many of us have survived as best as we could through innumerable challenges. Sometimes our natural strengths can get us through and other times, we might reach a breaking point. I am here to help others look inside of themselves to find that light again and get through the obstacles that continue to get in our paths to peace and serenity. With my experience as a director of a dual-diagnosis clinic and graduate school professor at the Santa Clara University Counseling Psychology Program, I have gained an immense amount of experience treating countless patients using a medical model.
(650) 663-3652 View (650) 663-3652
Photo of Dexter Mai, MSW, ASW
Dexter Mai
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
23 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94086  (Online Only)
I specialize in supporting people who are experiencing challenges with depression, anxiety, relationships, sexual identity, gender identity, substance use, and men's issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Have you experienced traumas that have left you feeling stressed? Or perhaps you're simply looking to understand yourself better and lead to a happier life. If these resonate with you, I can help. As a Taiwanese American who immigrated to America at a young age, I have firsthand experience of the challenges individuals from AAPI/immigrant communities face. I also understand the unique challenges the LGBTQ population faces, and I'm committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all of my clients.
I specialize in supporting people who are experiencing challenges with depression, anxiety, relationships, sexual identity, gender identity, substance use, and men's issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Have you experienced traumas that have left you feeling stressed? Or perhaps you're simply looking to understand yourself better and lead to a happier life. If these resonate with you, I can help. As a Taiwanese American who immigrated to America at a young age, I have firsthand experience of the challenges individuals from AAPI/immigrant communities face. I also understand the unique challenges the LGBTQ population faces, and I'm committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all of my clients.
(408) 478-9309 View (408) 478-9309
Photo of Susan Madson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Madson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
My name is Susan K Madson and I am a LCSW. I specialize in depression, anxiety, anger issues, identify coping skills, build relationship skills, identify client strengths, teach meditation, grounding, and relaxation techniques, reduce trauma response by teaching self regulation skills and other mental health treatment techniques to stabilize emotional and behavioral functioning. Further, specialties include addiction issues, grief work and couples therapy. The client's that I am most comfortable treating are ages 18-65. Most of my experience is with mental health and substance abuse disorders.
My name is Susan K Madson and I am a LCSW. I specialize in depression, anxiety, anger issues, identify coping skills, build relationship skills, identify client strengths, teach meditation, grounding, and relaxation techniques, reduce trauma response by teaching self regulation skills and other mental health treatment techniques to stabilize emotional and behavioral functioning. Further, specialties include addiction issues, grief work and couples therapy. The client's that I am most comfortable treating are ages 18-65. Most of my experience is with mental health and substance abuse disorders.
(408) 650-8238 View (408) 650-8238
Photo of Ross Lisman, CP, Psychologist
Ross Lisman
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
I am a licensed clinical psychologist (Ph.D.) and I specialize in helping you along your path to healing using evidence-based practices provided with warmth and care. I want to work with you to both reduce the symptoms that have been interfering with your life and help you to build a life worth living! I have extensive experience working with trauma, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, bipolar disorder, addiction, and borderline personality disorder.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist (Ph.D.) and I specialize in helping you along your path to healing using evidence-based practices provided with warmth and care. I want to work with you to both reduce the symptoms that have been interfering with your life and help you to build a life worth living! I have extensive experience working with trauma, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, bipolar disorder, addiction, and borderline personality disorder.
(510) 904-0429 View (510) 904-0429
Photo of Shilo M Satran, LPC-MHS, LPC/OR, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shilo M Satran
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MHS, LPC/OR, MAC
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94085
Everyone eventually comes upon a life situation that confuses or distresses them. I believe that is part of the human condition. Whether it be situational anxiety or depression, trauma, mental illness or addiction, nobody gets through life without experiencing something. These life events serve as wake up calls to help us make changes and live a more fulfilling life. It is helpful to have someone to navigate new territory with, someone who has been there themselves, to help find a better way. And that's what I am here to help you do, find a better way that leads to a more fulfilling life.
Everyone eventually comes upon a life situation that confuses or distresses them. I believe that is part of the human condition. Whether it be situational anxiety or depression, trauma, mental illness or addiction, nobody gets through life without experiencing something. These life events serve as wake up calls to help us make changes and live a more fulfilling life. It is helpful to have someone to navigate new territory with, someone who has been there themselves, to help find a better way. And that's what I am here to help you do, find a better way that leads to a more fulfilling life.
(615) 729-7981 View (615) 729-7981
Photo of Julie Colfax, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Colfax
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
Hello, I am Julie Pennington (previously Colfax) LMFT. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with people of all ages, levels of development, abilities, and stages of life. My focus is on you, your goals for yourself, and your family in the therapy space. The majority of the clients I see working to recover from trauma and minimize the impact or development of trauma responses (Acute Stress Disorder or PTSD), dealing with depression (bipolar or unipolar), anxiety, neuro-divergent and differently-abled, wanting to improve emotional management skills or work through substance use and addiction challenges.
Hello, I am Julie Pennington (previously Colfax) LMFT. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with people of all ages, levels of development, abilities, and stages of life. My focus is on you, your goals for yourself, and your family in the therapy space. The majority of the clients I see working to recover from trauma and minimize the impact or development of trauma responses (Acute Stress Disorder or PTSD), dealing with depression (bipolar or unipolar), anxiety, neuro-divergent and differently-abled, wanting to improve emotional management skills or work through substance use and addiction challenges.
(805) 600-8854 View (805) 600-8854
Photo of Amanda Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
I am comfortable treating a wide range of diagnosis including, depression, anxiety, attachment disorder, substance abuse, PTSD, BiPolar Disorder and adjustment disorder to name a few.
Hi, I am Amanda Johnson, LCSW (101426). I approach therapy from a client centered lens. It's important to me that my client's feel safe, heard, and have input in their treatment. I use a Strength Based approach with a variety of other therapeutic modalities to work with many DSM5 diagnosis. Depression, anxiety, attachment, personality disorder, bipolar, and substance abuse are some of my most worked with disorders. Some of the populations I have served are, families that have encountered the CPS system, domestic violence survivors, teens released from psychiatric care, and pre-teens.
I am comfortable treating a wide range of diagnosis including, depression, anxiety, attachment disorder, substance abuse, PTSD, BiPolar Disorder and adjustment disorder to name a few.
Hi, I am Amanda Johnson, LCSW (101426). I approach therapy from a client centered lens. It's important to me that my client's feel safe, heard, and have input in their treatment. I use a Strength Based approach with a variety of other therapeutic modalities to work with many DSM5 diagnosis. Depression, anxiety, attachment, personality disorder, bipolar, and substance abuse are some of my most worked with disorders. Some of the populations I have served are, families that have encountered the CPS system, domestic violence survivors, teens released from psychiatric care, and pre-teens.
(323) 996-0669 View (323) 996-0669
Photo of Laura Crabb, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Crabb
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94087  (Online Only)
Welcome, and congratulations! Finding the right therapist is a big step. If you'd like to understand how your mind causes you mischief--anxiety, stress, depression, anger, addictions, or relationship problems--I can help you to pursue these goals. I have many years of experience in mindfulness meditation and practice, and a thorough understanding of how our thoughts, stories, and assumptions result in increased stress or increased happiness. I also make good use of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy in helping adults and teens with sexual abuse or addiction issues. Clients tell me that I am "an easy person to talk to."
Welcome, and congratulations! Finding the right therapist is a big step. If you'd like to understand how your mind causes you mischief--anxiety, stress, depression, anger, addictions, or relationship problems--I can help you to pursue these goals. I have many years of experience in mindfulness meditation and practice, and a thorough understanding of how our thoughts, stories, and assumptions result in increased stress or increased happiness. I also make good use of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy in helping adults and teens with sexual abuse or addiction issues. Clients tell me that I am "an easy person to talk to."
(408) 412-5613 View (408) 412-5613
Photo of Alex Lerza, LMFT, CSAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alex Lerza
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94087  (Online Only)
This is the last time. I can stop anytime. It's not like I'm the only one who does this. If you, your partner or child has said these words you are not alone. My clients select me because I offer practical tools to stop compulsive behaviors, have hundreds of hours of training in sexual addiction, can treat the underlying issues with scientifically validated techniques and have an approach that is compassionate and relational. I take a holistic approach that integrates addict, partner and couples therapy which is critical to lasting change. Check out my website for more info: alexlerza.com
This is the last time. I can stop anytime. It's not like I'm the only one who does this. If you, your partner or child has said these words you are not alone. My clients select me because I offer practical tools to stop compulsive behaviors, have hundreds of hours of training in sexual addiction, can treat the underlying issues with scientifically validated techniques and have an approach that is compassionate and relational. I take a holistic approach that integrates addict, partner and couples therapy which is critical to lasting change. Check out my website for more info: alexlerza.com
(408) 610-1356 View (408) 610-1356
Photo of Jeffrey Miller, PhD, Psychologist
Jeffrey Miller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94085
I work primarily with teenage boys and adult men and women. My work addresses a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, learning differences, attention and executive functioning deficits, divorce and other family issues, substance abuse and dependence, parenting, health concerns, stage of life issues, professional stresses and transitions, and deeper exploration of emotional, psychological and spiritual issues. Many of my teenage patients are facing a combination of family, school and social issues. My adult patients are often seeking assistance with personal and family issues, struggles in the workplace, and deeper issues relating to meaning, purpose and spiritual direction.
I work primarily with teenage boys and adult men and women. My work addresses a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, learning differences, attention and executive functioning deficits, divorce and other family issues, substance abuse and dependence, parenting, health concerns, stage of life issues, professional stresses and transitions, and deeper exploration of emotional, psychological and spiritual issues. Many of my teenage patients are facing a combination of family, school and social issues. My adult patients are often seeking assistance with personal and family issues, struggles in the workplace, and deeper issues relating to meaning, purpose and spiritual direction.
(650) 458-0171 View (650) 458-0171
Photo of Carol Williams, PhD, Psychologist
Carol Williams
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
Not accepting new clients
Working with adults and teens, my experience is largely with mood and anxiety disorders, particularly Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. This includes work with people at all stages of recovery from substance abuse and with survivors of sexual abuse. In addition, I partner with physicians in helping people live well with chronic pain or chronic medical conditions. I also have expertise in family work - helping people to negotiate the challenges of divorce and remarriage, and enhancing the lives of intercultural and interracial families. My approach is grounded in mindfulness, cognitive behavioral, and attachment theories.
Working with adults and teens, my experience is largely with mood and anxiety disorders, particularly Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. This includes work with people at all stages of recovery from substance abuse and with survivors of sexual abuse. In addition, I partner with physicians in helping people live well with chronic pain or chronic medical conditions. I also have expertise in family work - helping people to negotiate the challenges of divorce and remarriage, and enhancing the lives of intercultural and interracial families. My approach is grounded in mindfulness, cognitive behavioral, and attachment theories.
(650) 924-9799 View (650) 924-9799
Photo of Alysia St. Clair, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alysia St. Clair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
She is an expert on addiction and trauma based interventions.
SUMMER 2024: Accepting New Patients if also seeing a medication management provider in our practice or are in our TMS/ Ketamine program.
She is an expert on addiction and trauma based interventions.
SUMMER 2024: Accepting New Patients if also seeing a medication management provider in our practice or are in our TMS/ Ketamine program.
(310) 361-4164 View (310) 361-4164
1
Addiction Therapists

What is the best therapy for addiction?

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

How long does therapy for addiction take?

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

How effective is drug addiction treatment?

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

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?

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