Psychiatrists in New York, NY

Photo of Elie G Aoun, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Elie G Aoun
Psychiatrist, MD, MRO
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10004
Elie G. Aoun, MD, MRO, is a Columbia University, quadruple board certified psychiatrist licensed in New York and in California practicing in downtown NYC. Dr. Aoun trained in general psychiatry at Brown University, in addiction psychiatry at UCSF and in forensic psychiatry at the combined Columbia University and Cornell University program. He has additional expertise in neuro-psycho-endocrinology and psychotherapy. Dr. Aoun provides diagnostic evaluations including second opinions, treatment for psychiatric disorders using psychotherapy, medication management , and forensic evaluations for civil and criminal litigation.
Elie G. Aoun, MD, MRO, is a Columbia University, quadruple board certified psychiatrist licensed in New York and in California practicing in downtown NYC. Dr. Aoun trained in general psychiatry at Brown University, in addiction psychiatry at UCSF and in forensic psychiatry at the combined Columbia University and Cornell University program. He has additional expertise in neuro-psycho-endocrinology and psychotherapy. Dr. Aoun provides diagnostic evaluations including second opinions, treatment for psychiatric disorders using psychotherapy, medication management , and forensic evaluations for civil and criminal litigation.
(347) 658-5633 View (347) 658-5633
Photo of Paula F Eagle, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Paula F Eagle
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
I am a Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Columbia University and I specialize in trauma, dissociation, addiction, depression, and personality disorders.
If you are anxious and depressed despite trying different medications and treatments and, you can't seem to get the relief you need, and if you still don't connect in relationships, and can't find satisfaction in your accomplishments, or engage in self-destructive behavior, then I am the person to contact. I have traditional training in psychoanalysis and psychopharmacology, but I also use hypnosis, EMDR, and other innovative forms of treatment. I believe that communication is the key to effective treatment and that our teamwork is essential to the development of trust and empathy necessary in developing healthy relationships..
I am a Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Columbia University and I specialize in trauma, dissociation, addiction, depression, and personality disorders.
If you are anxious and depressed despite trying different medications and treatments and, you can't seem to get the relief you need, and if you still don't connect in relationships, and can't find satisfaction in your accomplishments, or engage in self-destructive behavior, then I am the person to contact. I have traditional training in psychoanalysis and psychopharmacology, but I also use hypnosis, EMDR, and other innovative forms of treatment. I believe that communication is the key to effective treatment and that our teamwork is essential to the development of trust and empathy necessary in developing healthy relationships..
(212) 448-0248 View (212) 448-0248
Photo of Derek Blevins, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Derek Blevins
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist and addiction psychiatrist. I completed training at the University of Virginia and Columbia University. I hold positions as an Assistant Professor at Columbia and a Research Psychiatrist at the New York State Psychiatric Institute. I have experience treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, ADHD/ADD, OCD, thought disorders, and addictions (including alcohol, opioids, stimulants, and cannabis). I can offer psychotherapy to some patients or will work closely with your current therapist. I directly supervise the psychotherapy practice of Bryan Leach, LMSW.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist and addiction psychiatrist. I completed training at the University of Virginia and Columbia University. I hold positions as an Assistant Professor at Columbia and a Research Psychiatrist at the New York State Psychiatric Institute. I have experience treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, ADHD/ADD, OCD, thought disorders, and addictions (including alcohol, opioids, stimulants, and cannabis). I can offer psychotherapy to some patients or will work closely with your current therapist. I directly supervise the psychotherapy practice of Bryan Leach, LMSW.
(914) 996-4641 View (914) 996-4641
Photo of Benjamin R Bryan, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Benjamin R Bryan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
Much of my work is focused on helping people experiencing problems with addiction and mental illness.
Worried that your partying has gotten out of hand? Worried you are drinking or drugging too much? Not sure what to do about it? I can help. I am a great psychiatrist for people questioning if their substance use is a problem or what they might do about it, people with mental illness and substance use problems, people in recovery, people not sure they are ready to commit to abstaining altogether from drugs or alcohol, or people experiencing depression, anxiety, or other general psychiatric issues.
Much of my work is focused on helping people experiencing problems with addiction and mental illness.
Worried that your partying has gotten out of hand? Worried you are drinking or drugging too much? Not sure what to do about it? I can help. I am a great psychiatrist for people questioning if their substance use is a problem or what they might do about it, people with mental illness and substance use problems, people in recovery, people not sure they are ready to commit to abstaining altogether from drugs or alcohol, or people experiencing depression, anxiety, or other general psychiatric issues.
(646) 374-4648 View (646) 374-4648
Photo of Edward V. Haas, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Edward V. Haas
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10005
I offer caring, professional, evaluation and treatment of a wide variety of mental health issues including severe depression, anxiety, and addiction issues, using medication and/or psychotherapy. Whether with the help of cutting edge medical treatments including suboxone, ketamine, and ssri's, or insightful psychotherapy, I can help you feel better quickly, and get back to being productive and enjoying your life.
I offer caring, professional, evaluation and treatment of a wide variety of mental health issues including severe depression, anxiety, and addiction issues, using medication and/or psychotherapy. Whether with the help of cutting edge medical treatments including suboxone, ketamine, and ssri's, or insightful psychotherapy, I can help you feel better quickly, and get back to being productive and enjoying your life.
(646) 535-4227 View (646) 535-4227
Photo of Michael Morhous, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Michael Morhous
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10012
As a Clinical Assistant Professor at NYU Medical School, I provide supervision to NYU General Psychiatry residents and Addiction Psychiatry fellows, working with veterans on a dual-diagnosis inpatient psychiatric unit at the Manhattan VA.
My practice is devoted to helping patients surmount the obstacles that interfere with their ability to function optimally and live their best lives. Using evidence-based practices, I will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is compatible with your goals and values as an individual. Some of my patients see great benefit from the judicious use of the right medications alone; others prefer treatment which involves only psychotherapy. Many find that a combination of these two treatment modalities brings the quickest and longest lasting results.
As a Clinical Assistant Professor at NYU Medical School, I provide supervision to NYU General Psychiatry residents and Addiction Psychiatry fellows, working with veterans on a dual-diagnosis inpatient psychiatric unit at the Manhattan VA.
My practice is devoted to helping patients surmount the obstacles that interfere with their ability to function optimally and live their best lives. Using evidence-based practices, I will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is compatible with your goals and values as an individual. Some of my patients see great benefit from the judicious use of the right medications alone; others prefer treatment which involves only psychotherapy. Many find that a combination of these two treatment modalities brings the quickest and longest lasting results.
(347) 577-9772 View (347) 577-9772
Photo of Benjamin A Solomon, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Benjamin A Solomon
Psychiatrist, MD, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003
I use a number of psychotherapeutic modalities with a particular focus on psychodynamic psychotherapy. Where appropriate, I prescribe carefully tailored medication in conjunction with psychotherapy to help my clients meet their goals. I am experienced in treating a wide range of mental health problems including anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar disorder, ADHD, alcohol and other substance use disorders, PTSD, grief and interpersonal conflict. I prescribe based on the best available scientific evidence and my clinical experience, and have no affiliation with any pharmaceutical company.
I use a number of psychotherapeutic modalities with a particular focus on psychodynamic psychotherapy. Where appropriate, I prescribe carefully tailored medication in conjunction with psychotherapy to help my clients meet their goals. I am experienced in treating a wide range of mental health problems including anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar disorder, ADHD, alcohol and other substance use disorders, PTSD, grief and interpersonal conflict. I prescribe based on the best available scientific evidence and my clinical experience, and have no affiliation with any pharmaceutical company.
(646) 970-8264 View (646) 970-8264
Photo of Evans Rochaste, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Evans Rochaste
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10028
So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.
So many people struggle with mental health issues or chemical dependency but are afraid to seek help. Here’s the truth — there is no shame in finding the care you need. In fact, it’s one of the bravest things you can do. Better mental health is a process, and there is no shame in working with an expert who can guide you through that journey. Our practice employs a holistic approach to care for people struggling with addiction, anxiety, insomnia, inattention, fatigue, low mood, stress, and depression.
(646) 692-0326 View (646) 692-0326
Photo of Shane S Spicer, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Shane S Spicer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
Presently, I am the Medical Director of an LGBT Addiction Clinic and provide consultation to HIV/AIDS clinics throughout NYC.
Are you looking for a psychiatrist who genuinely cares about his clients? A psychiatrist who spends more time with clients than the average psychiatrist? Then you are in the right place. My practice offers an easily accessible Manhattan location and a relaxed environment in which you can receive psychotherapy, medication management, or both, in order to address your unique needs. Services are provided in a comfortable and nonjudgmental climate and we can draw from different psychotherapy theories and treatment models in order to best meet your specific goals.
Presently, I am the Medical Director of an LGBT Addiction Clinic and provide consultation to HIV/AIDS clinics throughout NYC.
Are you looking for a psychiatrist who genuinely cares about his clients? A psychiatrist who spends more time with clients than the average psychiatrist? Then you are in the right place. My practice offers an easily accessible Manhattan location and a relaxed environment in which you can receive psychotherapy, medication management, or both, in order to address your unique needs. Services are provided in a comfortable and nonjudgmental climate and we can draw from different psychotherapy theories and treatment models in order to best meet your specific goals.
(646) 600-8231 View (646) 600-8231
Photo of Doreen Zarfati, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Doreen Zarfati
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10036
I am double board certified psychiatrist specializing in numerous psychiatric disorders as well as addiction disorders. I completed training at St. Lukes Roosevelt Hospital, Columbia and a specialty in Addiction at Beth Israel Hospital. For many years I was the Associate Director of the Psychiatric Emergency Department at Kings County Hospital and later became the Director of Woodhull Hospital in Brooklyn, NY. I have lectured about the many forms of addiction at conferences and participated in Grand Rounds for hospitals, discussing addiction and eating disorders.I am on the medical faculty at SUNY Downstate Hospital providing guidance, teaching and mentoring for psychiatric residents.
I am double board certified psychiatrist specializing in numerous psychiatric disorders as well as addiction disorders. I completed training at St. Lukes Roosevelt Hospital, Columbia and a specialty in Addiction at Beth Israel Hospital. For many years I was the Associate Director of the Psychiatric Emergency Department at Kings County Hospital and later became the Director of Woodhull Hospital in Brooklyn, NY. I have lectured about the many forms of addiction at conferences and participated in Grand Rounds for hospitals, discussing addiction and eating disorders.I am on the medical faculty at SUNY Downstate Hospital providing guidance, teaching and mentoring for psychiatric residents.
(347) 848-1517 View (347) 848-1517
Photo of Edwin H Rodriguez, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Edwin H Rodriguez
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10023  (Online Only)
Dr. Rodriguez is a board-certified Columbia-trained psychiatrist who graduated from Stanford with honors and distinction and from UCSF with MD and PhD degrees. He completed adult psychiatry residency training at Columbia University, and he is currently a research fellow. He has completed trainings in couples therapy, psychedelic psychotherapy, and integrative psychiatry. He specializes in treatment for depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction.
Dr. Rodriguez is a board-certified Columbia-trained psychiatrist who graduated from Stanford with honors and distinction and from UCSF with MD and PhD degrees. He completed adult psychiatry residency training at Columbia University, and he is currently a research fellow. He has completed trainings in couples therapy, psychedelic psychotherapy, and integrative psychiatry. He specializes in treatment for depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction.
(914) 228-7852 View (914) 228-7852
Photo of Arthur Robin Williams, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Arthur Robin Williams
Psychiatrist, MD, MBE
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
I am a board certified psychiatrist, addiction psychiatrist, and NIH-funded research scientist at Columbia University Medical Center.
I specialize in working with patients with mood, anxiety, and personality disorders who have found that drugs and alcohol are worsening their ability to feel fulfilled, be productive, or thrive in healthy relationships. I use modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and relapse prevention (RPT) to help patients enhance their adaptive coping strategies in response to distress in life. When indicated, I also provide medication management to augment psychotherapy.
I am a board certified psychiatrist, addiction psychiatrist, and NIH-funded research scientist at Columbia University Medical Center.
I specialize in working with patients with mood, anxiety, and personality disorders who have found that drugs and alcohol are worsening their ability to feel fulfilled, be productive, or thrive in healthy relationships. I use modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and relapse prevention (RPT) to help patients enhance their adaptive coping strategies in response to distress in life. When indicated, I also provide medication management to augment psychotherapy.
(929) 207-6097 View (929) 207-6097
Photo of Dioanne Adsuara, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Dioanne Adsuara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I am an NYU-educated, Board Certified Psych NP with 10 years experience providing authentic and non-judgmental nursing care. My practice focuses on the treatment of: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, insomnia & substance use disorders. I trained in addiction treatment, med management & psychotherapeutic modalities and takes a holistic, individualized approach to treatment.
I am an NYU-educated, Board Certified Psych NP with 10 years experience providing authentic and non-judgmental nursing care. My practice focuses on the treatment of: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, insomnia & substance use disorders. I trained in addiction treatment, med management & psychotherapeutic modalities and takes a holistic, individualized approach to treatment.
(332) 877-9357 View (332) 877-9357
Photo of Michael A Ketteringham, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Michael A Ketteringham
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
My training in addiction and sex therapy enhances my ability to treat an array of mental health issues including but not limited to depression, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, OCD, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and personality disorders.
Mental health and its treatment are stigmatized, rendering the initiation of treatment intimidating for many. That is why I provide a professional and empathetic space for consultation and treatment; everyone should be comfortable seeking the care they feel they need. I also utilize telepsychiatry when appropriate to increase access to care. I am dual board certified in adult general psychiatry and addiction. I have also specialized in clinical training in sex therapy and I am affiliated with NYU's Program in Human Sexuality. I offer both treatment for patients and supervision for other mental health professionals.
My training in addiction and sex therapy enhances my ability to treat an array of mental health issues including but not limited to depression, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, OCD, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and personality disorders.
Mental health and its treatment are stigmatized, rendering the initiation of treatment intimidating for many. That is why I provide a professional and empathetic space for consultation and treatment; everyone should be comfortable seeking the care they feel they need. I also utilize telepsychiatry when appropriate to increase access to care. I am dual board certified in adult general psychiatry and addiction. I have also specialized in clinical training in sex therapy and I am affiliated with NYU's Program in Human Sexuality. I offer both treatment for patients and supervision for other mental health professionals.
(917) 267-0681 View (917) 267-0681
Photo of Lisa M Patrick, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Lisa M Patrick
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10075
I have completed both my psychiatry residency and addiction psychiatry fellowship at NYU School of Medicine.
I have extensive training in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. I prefer to see patients for both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, although I am open to working with other therapists. I have affiliation with both NYU and Lenox Hill Hospital and enjoy teaching both psychiatry residents and medical students as a voluntary attending. I provide patient focused therapy. I believe that everyone responds differently to different treatment and the best way to achieve their goals is to take a collaborative approach.
I have completed both my psychiatry residency and addiction psychiatry fellowship at NYU School of Medicine.
I have extensive training in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry. I prefer to see patients for both psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, although I am open to working with other therapists. I have affiliation with both NYU and Lenox Hill Hospital and enjoy teaching both psychiatry residents and medical students as a voluntary attending. I provide patient focused therapy. I believe that everyone responds differently to different treatment and the best way to achieve their goals is to take a collaborative approach.
(212) 717-4867 View (212) 717-4867
Photo of Daniel Bober, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Daniel Bober
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
I specialize in the treatment of adults and children with mental illness and addiction.
It is my belief that true peace and healing can only occur with a full understanding of the individual and how they relate to the world around them. Therefore, medication is only a small piece of the puzzle and although there is much talk about the use of evidence based treatments, the absence of evidence is not the evidence of absence and so I try to incorporate different schools of thought from not only Western Medicine, but Eastern Medicine as well. In the final analysis we are on this journey together and I find it a privilege to be able to join you.
I specialize in the treatment of adults and children with mental illness and addiction.
It is my belief that true peace and healing can only occur with a full understanding of the individual and how they relate to the world around them. Therefore, medication is only a small piece of the puzzle and although there is much talk about the use of evidence based treatments, the absence of evidence is not the evidence of absence and so I try to incorporate different schools of thought from not only Western Medicine, but Eastern Medicine as well. In the final analysis we are on this journey together and I find it a privilege to be able to join you.
(954) 967-6776 View (954) 967-6776
Photo of Vinod P. Suresh, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Vinod P. Suresh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
There, I attained specialized knowledge in addiction psychiatry, personality disorders, and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist providing patient-centered care. I take pride in my ability to treat a variety of psychiatric conditions with evidence-based knowledge and novel methods. I have experience in working with healthcare professionals, students (college, graduate, law and medical), LGBT clients, and survivors of trauma. I am licensed in New Jersey, New York, and Massachusetts.
There, I attained specialized knowledge in addiction psychiatry, personality disorders, and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist providing patient-centered care. I take pride in my ability to treat a variety of psychiatric conditions with evidence-based knowledge and novel methods. I have experience in working with healthcare professionals, students (college, graduate, law and medical), LGBT clients, and survivors of trauma. I am licensed in New Jersey, New York, and Massachusetts.
(551) 272-7103 View (551) 272-7103
Photo of Samantha Mehlman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Samantha Mehlman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10009
My practice centers around the trauma-related issues of addiction, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and gender / sexual identity.
Through active listening and thoughtful questioning, I aim to provide the highest quality care to my patients. As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my expertise in psychopharmacology is best utilized by taking the whole person into account. There is no one size fits all approach to mental health treatment, and we will work together to carefully understand your unique struggles. We will then customize a plan to get you feeling centered and empowered. While I offer both medication and therapy services, I also enjoy collaborating with other providers and seeing clients solely for medication management.
My practice centers around the trauma-related issues of addiction, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and gender / sexual identity.
Through active listening and thoughtful questioning, I aim to provide the highest quality care to my patients. As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my expertise in psychopharmacology is best utilized by taking the whole person into account. There is no one size fits all approach to mental health treatment, and we will work together to carefully understand your unique struggles. We will then customize a plan to get you feeling centered and empowered. While I offer both medication and therapy services, I also enjoy collaborating with other providers and seeing clients solely for medication management.
(929) 207-7291 View (929) 207-7291
Photo of Allen Family Healthcare, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Allen Family Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
Allen family Healthcare provides one on one counseling, Opioid addiction therapy, Medical Services for DM, HTN, Physicals (Sports, DOT, Work, & Student), as well as family therapy. The psychiatric and medical team uses a variety of approaches to help guide and treat patients. In addition, they can evaluate and assess patients and determine when it is medically necessary to prescribe medication. “My overall goal for my patients is to help them to develop a new normal, to live life to the fullest, and help them find things that make them happy. It’s very important to seize the day and live that day to the fullest,” says Allen.
Allen family Healthcare provides one on one counseling, Opioid addiction therapy, Medical Services for DM, HTN, Physicals (Sports, DOT, Work, & Student), as well as family therapy. The psychiatric and medical team uses a variety of approaches to help guide and treat patients. In addition, they can evaluate and assess patients and determine when it is medically necessary to prescribe medication. “My overall goal for my patients is to help them to develop a new normal, to live life to the fullest, and help them find things that make them happy. It’s very important to seize the day and live that day to the fullest,” says Allen.
(470) 323-8773 View (470) 323-8773
Joan Gerbasi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10017
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience. My practice includes psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. I have extensive experience treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD and trauma, eating disorders, substance use disorders, personality disorders and maladaptive personality traits. I have a secondary specialty in women's mental health including symptoms associated with the reproductive cycle. I have an additional focus on work life balance, especially in the context of high achieving careers, major life transitions and acute stress. I am accepting patients in NY and CA (telehealth).
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience. My practice includes psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. I have extensive experience treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD and trauma, eating disorders, substance use disorders, personality disorders and maladaptive personality traits. I have a secondary specialty in women's mental health including symptoms associated with the reproductive cycle. I have an additional focus on work life balance, especially in the context of high achieving careers, major life transitions and acute stress. I am accepting patients in NY and CA (telehealth).
(347) 851-8340 View (347) 851-8340
Addiction Psychiatrists

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.