Photo of Kalyan N Rao, Psychiatrist in Illinois
Kalyan N Rao
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
When someone has an addiction problem, they have usually started abusing substances in order to self medicate some underlying disorder.
I am a board certified psychiatrist with a specialization in addiction psychiatrist. I collaboratively work with my patients to provide the most personalized care directed toward their overall wellbeing using a holistic approach deploying all the modern tools available including but not limited to medication when appropriate, individual supportive psychotherapy, and motivational interviewing.
When someone has an addiction problem, they have usually started abusing substances in order to self medicate some underlying disorder.
I am a board certified psychiatrist with a specialization in addiction psychiatrist. I collaboratively work with my patients to provide the most personalized care directed toward their overall wellbeing using a holistic approach deploying all the modern tools available including but not limited to medication when appropriate, individual supportive psychotherapy, and motivational interviewing.
(312) 219-9195 View (312) 219-9195
Photo of Dr. Ola Fapohunda, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Illinois
Dr. Ola Fapohunda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Frankfort, IL 60423  (Online Only)
Areas of special interest include ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma care, Sleep disturbances, Mood/Bipolar disorder, Substance and Addiction.
Do you miss your old self? Do you still enjoy the things that you once upon a time found very enjoyable? Are you struggling with keeping up with your work, daily tasks and social life? Are you overwhelmed by the general worries of life? My goal is to help you get back to your optimal mental health by bringing you back to a place where you can do your work, take care of things at home, or get along with other people without any difficulty.
Areas of special interest include ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma care, Sleep disturbances, Mood/Bipolar disorder, Substance and Addiction.
Do you miss your old self? Do you still enjoy the things that you once upon a time found very enjoyable? Are you struggling with keeping up with your work, daily tasks and social life? Are you overwhelmed by the general worries of life? My goal is to help you get back to your optimal mental health by bringing you back to a place where you can do your work, take care of things at home, or get along with other people without any difficulty.
(708) 419-3580 View (708) 419-3580
Photo of Kim Dennis, Psychiatrist in Illinois
Kim Dennis
Psychiatrist, MD, CEDS
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
She is a member of the American Medical Association, Academy for Eating Disorders, the American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry, and the American Society for Addiction Medicine.
Kim Dennis, MD, CEDS is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in treating addictions, eating disorders, and co-occurring disorders. She has helped thousands of remarkable people with their illnesses. Her knowledge of eating disorders and addiction isn’t just limited to her academic and clinical experience, having had her own personal experience as a woman in recovery from an eating disorder and alcoholism. She is able to combine her personal journey with her medical training to help SunCloud Health patients become emotionally strong, responsible problem-solvers, who are inspired to create fulfilling lives for themselves.
She is a member of the American Medical Association, Academy for Eating Disorders, the American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry, and the American Society for Addiction Medicine.
Kim Dennis, MD, CEDS is a board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in treating addictions, eating disorders, and co-occurring disorders. She has helped thousands of remarkable people with their illnesses. Her knowledge of eating disorders and addiction isn’t just limited to her academic and clinical experience, having had her own personal experience as a woman in recovery from an eating disorder and alcoholism. She is able to combine her personal journey with her medical training to help SunCloud Health patients become emotionally strong, responsible problem-solvers, who are inspired to create fulfilling lives for themselves.
(224) 707-8482 View (224) 707-8482
Photo of Advanced Behavioral Health Services, Psychiatrist in Illinois
Advanced Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Some of the treatment modalities we use are: Crisis Intervention, Solution Focused individual psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavior Management for children and adolescents, Behavior Management Training for parents, Family Therapy, Couples Therapy, Specialized services for child victims of traumatic events, Individualized Substance Abuse Treatment for Adolescents and Adult, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, “Seeking Safety” strategies for survivors of abuse etc.
Advanced Behavioral Health Services is guided by the principle of giving people the best possible service. Our mission is to help people enjoy life to the fullest. We are committed to helping people cope with their behavioral and mental health issues so that they are able to live independently and - if possible - take a proactive stance on their own treatment. Advanced Behavioral Health Services puts the welfare of their clients first. Our specialists take time to establish rapport and get to know each client. This way, we are able to determine early on if our professional relationship would lead to progress in the client's quality of life. Each expert at Advanced Behavioral Health Services operates from the perspective that each client is our partner in treatment. After all, it is the client's response to treatment that determines our success or failure.
Some of the treatment modalities we use are: Crisis Intervention, Solution Focused individual psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavior Management for children and adolescents, Behavior Management Training for parents, Family Therapy, Couples Therapy, Specialized services for child victims of traumatic events, Individualized Substance Abuse Treatment for Adolescents and Adult, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, “Seeking Safety” strategies for survivors of abuse etc.
Advanced Behavioral Health Services is guided by the principle of giving people the best possible service. Our mission is to help people enjoy life to the fullest. We are committed to helping people cope with their behavioral and mental health issues so that they are able to live independently and - if possible - take a proactive stance on their own treatment. Advanced Behavioral Health Services puts the welfare of their clients first. Our specialists take time to establish rapport and get to know each client. This way, we are able to determine early on if our professional relationship would lead to progress in the client's quality of life. Each expert at Advanced Behavioral Health Services operates from the perspective that each client is our partner in treatment. After all, it is the client's response to treatment that determines our success or failure.
(331) 204-1791 View (331) 204-1791
Photo of Sarah Sims, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Illinois
Sarah Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, FPA
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Specialty include but not limited to: Depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, addiction, eating disorders, schizophrenia, postpartum, professionals in recovery, disease with underlying symptoms including, shame, guilt, sexual issues, self-defeating behavior; intimacy issues, dissociation, emotional dysregulation.
Sarah Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Transcendent Psychiatry treats pediatric, adolescents, and adults. In her practice, she integrates a combination of evidence-based psychopharmacologic management, psychotherapy, compassionate trauma informed care and various cognitive modalities to help you heal. She believes that high quality psychiatric care is more than just treating mental illness. It is a patient centered journey through transitioning mental illness to into mental wellness. Feel free to email us to schedule an intake.
Specialty include but not limited to: Depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, addiction, eating disorders, schizophrenia, postpartum, professionals in recovery, disease with underlying symptoms including, shame, guilt, sexual issues, self-defeating behavior; intimacy issues, dissociation, emotional dysregulation.
Sarah Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Transcendent Psychiatry treats pediatric, adolescents, and adults. In her practice, she integrates a combination of evidence-based psychopharmacologic management, psychotherapy, compassionate trauma informed care and various cognitive modalities to help you heal. She believes that high quality psychiatric care is more than just treating mental illness. It is a patient centered journey through transitioning mental illness to into mental wellness. Feel free to email us to schedule an intake.
(331) 214-3648 View (331) 214-3648
Photo of Michael Ficaro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Illinois
Michael Ficaro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
Michael Ficaro is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Illinois. Michael has been in the mental health field for eight years and has experience working with both adolescents and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Michael has worked with patients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, substance use disorders, spectrum disorders, personality disorders, and behavioral disorders. Michael also offers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
Michael Ficaro is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Illinois. Michael has been in the mental health field for eight years and has experience working with both adolescents and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Michael has worked with patients with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, substance use disorders, spectrum disorders, personality disorders, and behavioral disorders. Michael also offers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
(847) 423-6645 View (847) 423-6645
Photo of Eappen Clinic, Psychiatrist in Illinois
Eappen Clinic
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622
The issues I am best suited to treat are vast, and include diagnosis and treatment of mood/anxiety/psychotic disorders, child/adolescent psychiatric disorders, reduction of polypharmacy in patients receiving multiple psychiatric medicines, psychiatric diagnostic clarification, second opinion consultations, management of substance abuse disorders, psychiatric illness in the elderly and the medically ill, and more.
I am a board certified adult, child & adolescent psychiatrist. I completed medical school at the University of Illinois in Chicago, a general (adult) psychiatry residency at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, and a child psychiatry fellowship at the Medical University of South Carolina. The training I received in residency and fellowship has prepared me to manage essentially any psychiatric issue that comes through my clinic doors, regardless of severity or complexity.
The issues I am best suited to treat are vast, and include diagnosis and treatment of mood/anxiety/psychotic disorders, child/adolescent psychiatric disorders, reduction of polypharmacy in patients receiving multiple psychiatric medicines, psychiatric diagnostic clarification, second opinion consultations, management of substance abuse disorders, psychiatric illness in the elderly and the medically ill, and more.
I am a board certified adult, child & adolescent psychiatrist. I completed medical school at the University of Illinois in Chicago, a general (adult) psychiatry residency at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, and a child psychiatry fellowship at the Medical University of South Carolina. The training I received in residency and fellowship has prepared me to manage essentially any psychiatric issue that comes through my clinic doors, regardless of severity or complexity.
(844) 632-7736 View (844) 632-7736
Photo of Thrive Psychiatric Services, Lisa Hengen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Illinois
Thrive Psychiatric Services, Lisa Hengen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grayslake, IL 60030  (Online Only)
At Thrive Psychiatric Services, I provide personalized, comprehensive and compassionate Psychiatric Care. I love what I do and never feel like it is work. I enjoy helping people to feel better, so they can have better quality of life. I strive to provide every patient with the best possible care. I feel it is an honor and a privilege to be part of my patient’s healthcare journey, and I am always mindful of the respect and trust that is needed to maintain a therapeutic relationship. I provide comprehensive mental health services, psychiatric evaluation, medication management, substance abuse/addiction treatment and psychotherapy.
At Thrive Psychiatric Services, I provide personalized, comprehensive and compassionate Psychiatric Care. I love what I do and never feel like it is work. I enjoy helping people to feel better, so they can have better quality of life. I strive to provide every patient with the best possible care. I feel it is an honor and a privilege to be part of my patient’s healthcare journey, and I am always mindful of the respect and trust that is needed to maintain a therapeutic relationship. I provide comprehensive mental health services, psychiatric evaluation, medication management, substance abuse/addiction treatment and psychotherapy.
(224) 298-8260 View (224) 298-8260
Photo of Holistic Behavioral and TMS therapy , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Illinois
Holistic Behavioral and TMS therapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frankfort, IL 60423
He treats Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, Insomnia, ADHD, binge eating, substance use disorder, Medication management, Genetic testing and more.
Lawrence Abah, PMHNP treats patients starting from 12 years old. Lawrence is dual board certified in Across the lifespan psychiatry and Family practice. Lawrence believes in using holistic approach to behavioral health and partnering with his clients for the best treatment outcome. He believes in development of good therapeutic alliance with his patients. He prides himself in providing patient focused, high quality and individualized care to his patients. Lawrence has more than 15 years experience in behavioral health, and he understands how difficult it is finding that provider that truly cares about your holistic wellness.
He treats Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, Insomnia, ADHD, binge eating, substance use disorder, Medication management, Genetic testing and more.
Lawrence Abah, PMHNP treats patients starting from 12 years old. Lawrence is dual board certified in Across the lifespan psychiatry and Family practice. Lawrence believes in using holistic approach to behavioral health and partnering with his clients for the best treatment outcome. He believes in development of good therapeutic alliance with his patients. He prides himself in providing patient focused, high quality and individualized care to his patients. Lawrence has more than 15 years experience in behavioral health, and he understands how difficult it is finding that provider that truly cares about your holistic wellness.
(708) 627-9296 View (708) 627-9296
Photo of Shani Alam, Psychiatrist in Illinois
Shani Alam
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I have been practicing general adult psychiatry since 1997 and have extensive expertise in evaluating and treating individuals of all ages, as well as treating a wide variety of emotional and mental conditions that range from mood/anxiety disorders, substance abuse, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and eating disorders to consulting with clients about grief, trauma, work stress, relationship problems, adoption, legal cases, disability, and other major life changing events. I utilize biopsychosocial approach to mental illness that takes into account each individual's physical health, environment, and psychological experiences throughout their life.
I have been practicing general adult psychiatry since 1997 and have extensive expertise in evaluating and treating individuals of all ages, as well as treating a wide variety of emotional and mental conditions that range from mood/anxiety disorders, substance abuse, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and eating disorders to consulting with clients about grief, trauma, work stress, relationship problems, adoption, legal cases, disability, and other major life changing events. I utilize biopsychosocial approach to mental illness that takes into account each individual's physical health, environment, and psychological experiences throughout their life.
(512) 686-2315 View (512) 686-2315
Photo of Matthew Barnes (Addiction Treatment), Physician Assistant in Illinois
Matthew Barnes (Addiction Treatment)
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol psychiatrist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
Don't settle for a generic drug and alcohol psychiatrist. You deserve help that actually helps you feel happy again. (And, that's in-network with your insurance).
(331) 200-5993 View (331) 200-5993
Photo of Ci Psychiatry PLLC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Illinois
Ci Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APN, CEO
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60123
I utilize a comprehensive approach to treating your brain and body. By combining genetic testing with a variety of assessment screenings and lab work, I try to identify just exactly what your brain needs and what chemicals need to regulated.
I utilize a comprehensive approach to treating your brain and body. By combining genetic testing with a variety of assessment screenings and lab work, I try to identify just exactly what your brain needs and what chemicals need to regulated.
(224) 347-6943 View (224) 347-6943
Photo of Clarity Clinic, Psychiatrist in Illinois
Clarity Clinic
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
We offer Psychiatric services and counseling services to those in the Chicago area
We offer Psychiatric services and counseling services to those in the Chicago area
(312) 883-8789 View (312) 883-8789
Mindwell
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
Request an appointment today at www.mindwell.health
Request an appointment today at www.mindwell.health
(630) 528-0049 View (630) 528-0049
Photo of Irina Salabai, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Illinois
Irina Salabai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) working with children, adolescents, and adults. I am a patient-centered, compassionate, dedicated, and attentive PMHNP who enjoys working with patients diagnosed with anxiety, depression, insomnia, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, mood disorder, self-injurious behaviors, chemical dependency, postpartum, etc. I deliver care that is empathetic, compassionate, and evidence based. I take time to listen and to understand each person's unique needs. I aim to provide and maintain a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive therapeutic environment.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) working with children, adolescents, and adults. I am a patient-centered, compassionate, dedicated, and attentive PMHNP who enjoys working with patients diagnosed with anxiety, depression, insomnia, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, mood disorder, self-injurious behaviors, chemical dependency, postpartum, etc. I deliver care that is empathetic, compassionate, and evidence based. I take time to listen and to understand each person's unique needs. I aim to provide and maintain a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive therapeutic environment.
(888) 628-6100 View (888) 628-6100
Photo of VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Illinois
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61701  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
(309) 808-6562 View (309) 808-6562
Photo of VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Illinois
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61109  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth for entire state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting BCBS of IL, Optum/UHC insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth for entire state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting BCBS of IL, Optum/UHC insurances.
(855) 910-6739 View (855) 910-6739
Photo of Audrey Rolandelli, Psychiatric Nurse in Illinois
Audrey Rolandelli
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNPBC, APN
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
New Lenox, IL 60451
Audrey is a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats psychiatric conditions using a holistic approach with therapeutic intervention and medication management. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of disorders and behavioral symptoms. In 2018, She completed her Advanced Practice degree through St. Francis University in Joliet. Prior to this, Audrey worked as psychiatric nurse. Audrey has had extensive experience within multiple settings including inpatient, residential, PHP/IOP, and outpatient practice across the lifespan.
Audrey is a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats psychiatric conditions using a holistic approach with therapeutic intervention and medication management. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of disorders and behavioral symptoms. In 2018, She completed her Advanced Practice degree through St. Francis University in Joliet. Prior to this, Audrey worked as psychiatric nurse. Audrey has had extensive experience within multiple settings including inpatient, residential, PHP/IOP, and outpatient practice across the lifespan.
(779) 235-5857 View (779) 235-5857
Photo of Cherie Borkorm, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Illinois
Cherie Borkorm
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-c, PMHNP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Shorewood, IL 60404  (Online Only)
As a mental healthcare provider, I specialize in delivering comprehensive care that merges medical expertise with evidence-based treatments through a dynamic tele-health platform. With a steadfast commitment to Integrative Health approaches, I strive to uncover the root causes of mental health disorders, crafting tailored treatment plans to suit the unique needs of each individual. With over two decades of experience in healthcare, I am dedicated to offering genuine, compassionate care to my patients and clients. Serving as a guide through life's challenges, I provide a supportive presence aimed at nurturing a positive balance.
As a mental healthcare provider, I specialize in delivering comprehensive care that merges medical expertise with evidence-based treatments through a dynamic tele-health platform. With a steadfast commitment to Integrative Health approaches, I strive to uncover the root causes of mental health disorders, crafting tailored treatment plans to suit the unique needs of each individual. With over two decades of experience in healthcare, I am dedicated to offering genuine, compassionate care to my patients and clients. Serving as a guide through life's challenges, I provide a supportive presence aimed at nurturing a positive balance.
(815) 569-0267 View (815) 569-0267
Photo of VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Illinois
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
Accepting new Illinois patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. My clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting Optum/UHC/UBH, BCBS of IL insurances.
Accepting new Illinois patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. My clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting Optum/UHC/UBH, BCBS of IL insurances.
(312) 561-3923 View (312) 561-3923
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.