Addiction Therapists in Vancouver, BC

Photo of Noel Tait, CCAC, BA, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor
Noel Tait
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, CCAC, BA
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5V  (Online Only)
When we break the cycle of addiction we discover choice.
Are drugs and alcohol interfering with your life? Thinking about making some changes but now sure where to start? Are you concerned about a loved one and need some guidance and support? Call me - I can help. Together we can discover choice, find hope, and create a road map for what to do next. Compassion, understanding and empowerment have been central to my own journey of recovery and are at the heart of my approach. I'm a Nationally Certified Addictions Counsellor and have been involved in all facets of Addiction Recovery for over 15 years.
When we break the cycle of addiction we discover choice.
Are drugs and alcohol interfering with your life? Thinking about making some changes but now sure where to start? Are you concerned about a loved one and need some guidance and support? Call me - I can help. Together we can discover choice, find hope, and create a road map for what to do next. Compassion, understanding and empowerment have been central to my own journey of recovery and are at the heart of my approach. I'm a Nationally Certified Addictions Counsellor and have been involved in all facets of Addiction Recovery for over 15 years.
(778) 400-1387 View (778) 400-1387
Photo of Maryam Dada, BA, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Maryam Dada
Counsellor, BA, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B
I specialize in addiction and recovery, grief and loss, trauma, life transitions, anxiety, depression, relational, and family concerns.
Hi there, my name is Maryam, and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC). My goal is to provide you a safe space to express how you’re feeling. I am a second-generation South-Asian settler living, working, and playing, on the sacred, stolen, and ancestral territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. I identify as a third-culture kid and know how difficult it can be to feel like you belong, especially while struggling with the multiple pressures of our communities or families.
I specialize in addiction and recovery, grief and loss, trauma, life transitions, anxiety, depression, relational, and family concerns.
Hi there, my name is Maryam, and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC). My goal is to provide you a safe space to express how you’re feeling. I am a second-generation South-Asian settler living, working, and playing, on the sacred, stolen, and ancestral territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. I identify as a third-culture kid and know how difficult it can be to feel like you belong, especially while struggling with the multiple pressures of our communities or families.
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Photo of Leia Newland, BA, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Leia Newland
Counsellor, BA, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B
I specialize in trauma, systemic barriers, and addictions for both adults and youth.
Hi I'm Leia! I have experience helping others navigate trauma or distressing life experiences that are affecting their daily life and relationships. I believe connection is key for removing barriers and working through problems. I provide a non-judgmental safe space where together we can do just this. My experience includes working with youth and young adults navigating addiction, anxiety, depression, oppression, and trauma who are diverse in culture. My education in counselling is through Adler University. Through personal identity I am familiar with injury and disability culture.
I specialize in trauma, systemic barriers, and addictions for both adults and youth.
Hi I'm Leia! I have experience helping others navigate trauma or distressing life experiences that are affecting their daily life and relationships. I believe connection is key for removing barriers and working through problems. I provide a non-judgmental safe space where together we can do just this. My experience includes working with youth and young adults navigating addiction, anxiety, depression, oppression, and trauma who are diverse in culture. My education in counselling is through Adler University. Through personal identity I am familiar with injury and disability culture.
(236) 900-2107 View (236) 900-2107
Photo of Sarah Al Kaati, MCP, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Sarah Al Kaati
Counsellor, MCP, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5Z
To name a few anxiety, depression, addiction, women issues, grief, relationships, and trauma.
I believe therapy is a collaborative and supportive space between you and I, in which we can work together to identify and achieve your goals. The therapy room is a space for you to feel safe and comfortable. By creating that, we can then work together to peel back the layers of who you are, explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and work on making positive changes in your life. I take a holistic approach to therapy, as this allows me to consider many factors that can impact your mental health and well-being. By considering your past experiences, childhood, environment, intersectionality and identity.
To name a few anxiety, depression, addiction, women issues, grief, relationships, and trauma.
I believe therapy is a collaborative and supportive space between you and I, in which we can work together to identify and achieve your goals. The therapy room is a space for you to feel safe and comfortable. By creating that, we can then work together to peel back the layers of who you are, explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and work on making positive changes in your life. I take a holistic approach to therapy, as this allows me to consider many factors that can impact your mental health and well-being. By considering your past experiences, childhood, environment, intersectionality and identity.
(365) 363-1495 View (365) 363-1495
Photo of Justin Bagan, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Justin Bagan
Counsellor, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6H  (Online Only)
Overwhelmed by life's challenges? Whether it's anxiety, complex relationships, substance use, impulsive habits, depression, or feeling lost and disconnected, you're not alone. With a background in addiction and substance use counselling, I’ve walked alongside clients to figure out what practical insights, tools, and resources to draw on to move forward. Originally from Winnipeg, my approach is based in CBT and Taoist and Buddhist philosophy. Successes with clients in areas of personal well-being, relationships, family, behavioral health, coping, and adapting to changes inform our work together.
Overwhelmed by life's challenges? Whether it's anxiety, complex relationships, substance use, impulsive habits, depression, or feeling lost and disconnected, you're not alone. With a background in addiction and substance use counselling, I’ve walked alongside clients to figure out what practical insights, tools, and resources to draw on to move forward. Originally from Winnipeg, my approach is based in CBT and Taoist and Buddhist philosophy. Successes with clients in areas of personal well-being, relationships, family, behavioral health, coping, and adapting to changes inform our work together.
(778) 762-0364 View (778) 762-0364
Photo of Candace Plattor - Love With Boundaries, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Love With Boundaries
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6K  (Online Only)
When addiction is present, everyone in the family is affected and everyone needs to heal.
Having an addicted person in your life can feel like a nightmare and tear your family apart. In order for addiction to have a chance of healing, we must first address the dynamics of the addict's relationships with their loved ones. Many loved ones unwittingly enable the addiction to continue, sometimes because they want to avoid confrontation and conflict. As the enabling continues, the addiction continues as well-and becomes progressively worse. It is important to understand that enabling an addict is never a loving act-and only leads to more severe consequences as time goes on.
When addiction is present, everyone in the family is affected and everyone needs to heal.
Having an addicted person in your life can feel like a nightmare and tear your family apart. In order for addiction to have a chance of healing, we must first address the dynamics of the addict's relationships with their loved ones. Many loved ones unwittingly enable the addiction to continue, sometimes because they want to avoid confrontation and conflict. As the enabling continues, the addiction continues as well-and becomes progressively worse. It is important to understand that enabling an addict is never a loving act-and only leads to more severe consequences as time goes on.
(604) 239-8429 View (604) 239-8429
Photo of Mark van Vliet, MDiv, RCC, CSAT, Counsellor
Mark van Vliet
Counsellor, MDiv, RCC, CSAT
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6H
I understand how difficult these addictions are to overcome on your own and I know the real damage it can create in your life.
I work with clients struggling with pornography and sex addiction. I draw upon my training as a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and my experience as an addictions counsellor at a premier addictions treatment clinic in Vancouver. Working with you would allow us to target the underlying issues and the root causes of these behaviours to provide a plan for you to move forward and be free. My other areas of expertise include drug and alcohol addiction.
I understand how difficult these addictions are to overcome on your own and I know the real damage it can create in your life.
I work with clients struggling with pornography and sex addiction. I draw upon my training as a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and my experience as an addictions counsellor at a premier addictions treatment clinic in Vancouver. Working with you would allow us to target the underlying issues and the root causes of these behaviours to provide a plan for you to move forward and be free. My other areas of expertise include drug and alcohol addiction.
(778) 764-1560 View (778) 764-1560
Photo of Mike Mathers - Mike Mathers - Wellness Evolved Counselling, MSc, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Mike Mathers - Wellness Evolved Counselling
Counsellor, MSc, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B
Depression, anxiety, trauma and addiction often involve loss and I believe that people can most effectively recover from these challenges when they have the proper support to help make sense of loss.
If you or a loved one are suffering from addictions or are concerned about emotional well being please get in touch for a FREE 20 minute phone consult. I am a Counsellor with 15 years of experience working in residential and outpatient treatment programs with both individuals and groups. I have a passion for helping individuals and families impacted by substance use disorders as well as for supporting first responders dealing with operational stress injuries. I use a blend of approaches including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, existential therapy and mindfulness.
Depression, anxiety, trauma and addiction often involve loss and I believe that people can most effectively recover from these challenges when they have the proper support to help make sense of loss.
If you or a loved one are suffering from addictions or are concerned about emotional well being please get in touch for a FREE 20 minute phone consult. I am a Counsellor with 15 years of experience working in residential and outpatient treatment programs with both individuals and groups. I have a passion for helping individuals and families impacted by substance use disorders as well as for supporting first responders dealing with operational stress injuries. I use a blend of approaches including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, existential therapy and mindfulness.
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Photo of Natasha Roop, MCP, RCC, BSc, Counsellor
Natasha Roop
Counsellor, MCP, RCC, BSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I am glad you are reading my profile and hope we can connect! My name is Natasha Roop (she/they), and I am a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive therapist. I am Splatsin First Nations and European and am working to help decolonize the field of counselling. Individuals who seek my counselling services want to take back their power and better understand themselves on a deeper level. I work with individuals unpacking their racial, gender and sexual identity and the effects of structures in our society. With other individuals, we process and work through trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, life changes, and addiction/ substance abuse.
Hello, I am glad you are reading my profile and hope we can connect! My name is Natasha Roop (she/they), and I am a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive therapist. I am Splatsin First Nations and European and am working to help decolonize the field of counselling. Individuals who seek my counselling services want to take back their power and better understand themselves on a deeper level. I work with individuals unpacking their racial, gender and sexual identity and the effects of structures in our society. With other individuals, we process and work through trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, life changes, and addiction/ substance abuse.
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Photo of Kaitlin Harvey, MA, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Kaitlin Harvey
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6B
I am so happy you are looking for therapy! My ideal client is anyone who wants to make some changes or practice self-discovery. I am particularly attuned to the issues of people who struggle with substance use and eating disorders, but I love to work with couples and individuals with any other desire for change.
I am so happy you are looking for therapy! My ideal client is anyone who wants to make some changes or practice self-discovery. I am particularly attuned to the issues of people who struggle with substance use and eating disorders, but I love to work with couples and individuals with any other desire for change.
(819) 510-4402 View (819) 510-4402
Photo of Michael Kenneth Horne, RCC, Counsellor
Michael Kenneth Horne
Counsellor, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5L  (Online Only)
I specialize in addictions, including substance use and other addictive behaviours.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a background in person-centred interaction. I work in partnership with you on the issues that bring you to counselling. I believe that each individual has the capacity to change and can discover and use his or her own strengths to create change. I treat all my clients with the understanding that they have an inherent striving for a positive life, and will work with the person to achieve his or her own goals.
I specialize in addictions, including substance use and other addictive behaviours.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a background in person-centred interaction. I work in partnership with you on the issues that bring you to counselling. I believe that each individual has the capacity to change and can discover and use his or her own strengths to create change. I treat all my clients with the understanding that they have an inherent striving for a positive life, and will work with the person to achieve his or her own goals.
(778) 767-2318 View (778) 767-2318
Photo of Olivia Ng, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Olivia Ng
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6J
Olivia has the aspiration of working with a diverse clientele presenting a broad range of counselling concerns. She has experience counselling adults who have severe, persistent mental illness including: schizophrenia, other psychotic disorders, mood disorders (e.g. bipolar and major depressive disorders), co-occurring disorders such as personality disorders disorders substance abuse, mental challenges etc. She also has experience counselling groups of adults who have addiction and addictive behaviours. Olivia has experience counselling groups of family members and caregivers of people with mental and substance use difficulties.
Olivia has the aspiration of working with a diverse clientele presenting a broad range of counselling concerns. She has experience counselling adults who have severe, persistent mental illness including: schizophrenia, other psychotic disorders, mood disorders (e.g. bipolar and major depressive disorders), co-occurring disorders such as personality disorders disorders substance abuse, mental challenges etc. She also has experience counselling groups of adults who have addiction and addictive behaviours. Olivia has experience counselling groups of family members and caregivers of people with mental and substance use difficulties.
(778) 766-4838 View (778) 766-4838
Photo of Chris Nicol, BSc, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Chris Nicol
Counsellor, BSc, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5Y  (Online Only)
Something's in the way. Sadness, anxiety, loneliness, stress, worry, depression, substance use, loss. The world is heavy, and that weight can be paralyzing. You know that you have something to offer. You're compassionate, creative, intelligent, sensitive, loving, and yet strong-willed, skeptical, and maybe even a bit rebellious. It seems as though you don't fit the mold, but it's the mold that doesn't fit you. Social isolation, feeling disconnected from others, from the world, adds to the weight, to the pain. If you could only break free from the self-doubt that cultures and institutions feed, the world might just open up for you.
Something's in the way. Sadness, anxiety, loneliness, stress, worry, depression, substance use, loss. The world is heavy, and that weight can be paralyzing. You know that you have something to offer. You're compassionate, creative, intelligent, sensitive, loving, and yet strong-willed, skeptical, and maybe even a bit rebellious. It seems as though you don't fit the mold, but it's the mold that doesn't fit you. Social isolation, feeling disconnected from others, from the world, adds to the weight, to the pain. If you could only break free from the self-doubt that cultures and institutions feed, the world might just open up for you.
(226) 887-1365 View (226) 887-1365
Photo of Laurie Hollingdrake, RCC, CCC, MCP, Counsellor
Laurie Hollingdrake
Counsellor, RCC, CCC, MCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B  (Online Only)
Hi I’m Laurie, and I understand how lonely it can be to feel that there are things you can’t talk about with anyone in your life. I have experience working with folks who have dual diagnoses of mental health and substance use, folks questioning sexuality and gender identity, divorce, fertility issues, people working in the sex economy, stress, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, and more. I hold a Master’s in Counselling Psychology, a diploma in Addictions Medicine, am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BCACC, and am a Certified Yoga Instructor. I also provide clinical supervision to other mental health professionals.
Hi I’m Laurie, and I understand how lonely it can be to feel that there are things you can’t talk about with anyone in your life. I have experience working with folks who have dual diagnoses of mental health and substance use, folks questioning sexuality and gender identity, divorce, fertility issues, people working in the sex economy, stress, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, and more. I hold a Master’s in Counselling Psychology, a diploma in Addictions Medicine, am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BCACC, and am a Certified Yoga Instructor. I also provide clinical supervision to other mental health professionals.
(604) 359-5808 View (604) 359-5808
Photo of Reza Roodi - Reza Roodi Counselling & Consulting, MSc, RCC, GMBPsS, Counsellor
Reza Roodi Counselling & Consulting
Counsellor, MSc, RCC, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V5R
I understand it can be difficult to reach out for help, whether you or your loved ones are experiencing substance use issues, anxiety, depression, pornography issues, family conflict, or problems with interpersonal relationships.
As a Registered Clinical Counsellor/Psychotherapist with 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families, I use a client-centred, integrative approach to address the therapeutic goals of clients. No one should be defined by their diagnoses, and rather than placing emphasis on what is not working, I collaborate with clients to determine what actions can be taken to improve on their circumstances. All individuals exist along their own continuum of mental health, and with adequate supports and a focus on holistic well-being, every client can be nurtured towards growth and a healthier sense of self.
I understand it can be difficult to reach out for help, whether you or your loved ones are experiencing substance use issues, anxiety, depression, pornography issues, family conflict, or problems with interpersonal relationships.
As a Registered Clinical Counsellor/Psychotherapist with 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families, I use a client-centred, integrative approach to address the therapeutic goals of clients. No one should be defined by their diagnoses, and rather than placing emphasis on what is not working, I collaborate with clients to determine what actions can be taken to improve on their circumstances. All individuals exist along their own continuum of mental health, and with adequate supports and a focus on holistic well-being, every client can be nurtured towards growth and a healthier sense of self.
(604) 200-8346 View (604) 200-8346
Photo of Heather Talbot, MTC, Counsellor
Heather Talbot
Counsellor, MTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6B
I have been working as a counsellor for over ten years and specialize in working with trauma, substance use and mental health conditions.
There are so many reasons a person might choose to seek counselling. Perhaps some life experience has left you feeling overwhelmed and disconnected; perhaps you struggle with depression or anxiety. There may be behaviours that you are engaging in that you don’t feel good about or are causing problems in your life, or maybe there’s a more general feeling of malaise or low self esteem. If you want to move forward in your life, change behaviours or unwanted patterns; restore a sense of meaning and purpose; build confidence and vitality; and learn healthier ways to cope with life's challenges... I believe I can help!
I have been working as a counsellor for over ten years and specialize in working with trauma, substance use and mental health conditions.
There are so many reasons a person might choose to seek counselling. Perhaps some life experience has left you feeling overwhelmed and disconnected; perhaps you struggle with depression or anxiety. There may be behaviours that you are engaging in that you don’t feel good about or are causing problems in your life, or maybe there’s a more general feeling of malaise or low self esteem. If you want to move forward in your life, change behaviours or unwanted patterns; restore a sense of meaning and purpose; build confidence and vitality; and learn healthier ways to cope with life's challenges... I believe I can help!
(778) 901-7092 View (778) 901-7092
Photo of Heather Mitchell, MCP, RCC, Counsellor
Heather Mitchell
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6J
My name is Heather, and my counselling approach is centred on genuine connection and creating safety for the folks I get to work with. I could be a good fit for you if you are looking to address substance use, trauma symptoms, relationship struggles, curiosities around sex/sexuality, and/or general mental health concerns. My clients have described me as calm and compassionate while also holding people accountable to their therapy goals. I work from an emotion focused, relational, and experiential framework. You are in the driver's seat and I am here to support you with compassion and curiosity. Looking forward to connecting!
My name is Heather, and my counselling approach is centred on genuine connection and creating safety for the folks I get to work with. I could be a good fit for you if you are looking to address substance use, trauma symptoms, relationship struggles, curiosities around sex/sexuality, and/or general mental health concerns. My clients have described me as calm and compassionate while also holding people accountable to their therapy goals. I work from an emotion focused, relational, and experiential framework. You are in the driver's seat and I am here to support you with compassion and curiosity. Looking forward to connecting!
(778) 601-6699 View (778) 601-6699
Photo of Avery Viet Chaplan-Hoang, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Avery Viet Chaplan-Hoang
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6J
I have experience working with children, teens and young adults who are dealing with social and emotional issues, while striving to strengthen their internal locus of control. Outside of counselling, I work with individuals in the Vancouver Downtown Eastside who are living with addiction and housing insecurity. Through this work, I have developed an appreciation that mental health challenges can be exacerbated by both internal and external factors, such as past trauma and poverty.
I have experience working with children, teens and young adults who are dealing with social and emotional issues, while striving to strengthen their internal locus of control. Outside of counselling, I work with individuals in the Vancouver Downtown Eastside who are living with addiction and housing insecurity. Through this work, I have developed an appreciation that mental health challenges can be exacerbated by both internal and external factors, such as past trauma and poverty.
(506) 516-1654 View (506) 516-1654
Photo of Matty Devenish, MSW, RSW, Counsellor
Matty Devenish
Counsellor, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5V
I also specialize in working with parents and families who are struggling with youth/young adults who are caught in addiction.
Throughout my work I have supported many people who are struggling with: depression, anxiety, negative thoughts about oneself, addiction, dis-ordered eating, self-harm, suicidal thinking, sexuality, gender identity, sexual orientation, issues related to racism, sexism, homophobia and transphobia, grief and loss, men's issues, anger and frustration. I encourage you to contact me if you are experiencing any of these struggles. Exploration with another person can help us to re-author our relationship to problems and begin to move towards our preferred ways of being in the world.
I also specialize in working with parents and families who are struggling with youth/young adults who are caught in addiction.
Throughout my work I have supported many people who are struggling with: depression, anxiety, negative thoughts about oneself, addiction, dis-ordered eating, self-harm, suicidal thinking, sexuality, gender identity, sexual orientation, issues related to racism, sexism, homophobia and transphobia, grief and loss, men's issues, anger and frustration. I encourage you to contact me if you are experiencing any of these struggles. Exploration with another person can help us to re-author our relationship to problems and begin to move towards our preferred ways of being in the world.
(855) 733-8099 View (855) 733-8099
Photo of Dwayne Mason, RTC, CACC, Counsellor
Dwayne Mason
Counsellor, RTC, CACC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5R
Having been on the road of recovery for nearly three decades myself, I bring a deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs that come with addiction.
Welcome! I'm Dwayne, a dedicated therapist passionate about supporting individuals and families on their journey towards healing from addiction. With a focus on addiction recovery and family dynamics, I provide a safe and empathetic space for clients to explore their challenges and cultivate resilience. With 27 years of experience in the field, I understand the complexities of addiction and its impact on individuals and their loved ones. My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based practices, tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.
Having been on the road of recovery for nearly three decades myself, I bring a deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs that come with addiction.
Welcome! I'm Dwayne, a dedicated therapist passionate about supporting individuals and families on their journey towards healing from addiction. With a focus on addiction recovery and family dynamics, I provide a safe and empathetic space for clients to explore their challenges and cultivate resilience. With 27 years of experience in the field, I understand the complexities of addiction and its impact on individuals and their loved ones. My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based practices, tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.
(365) 398-5091 View (365) 398-5091
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Addiction Counsellors

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.



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