1. Doctors and Medical Professionals:
Primary Care Doctor: Start with a visit to your son’s primary care doctor, who can assess his physical and mental health and suggest next steps. They can also help manage withdrawal symptoms or refer him to a specialist.
Addiction Specialists: An addiction medicine doctor or psychiatrist specializing in addiction can prescribe medications to help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings. They also provide ongoing support and therapy.
2. Therapists and Counselors:
Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) and Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW): These professionals specialize in treating mental health and addiction issues. They can work with your son individually or in group therapy, helping him explore the root causes of his drug use and teaching strategies to cope with triggers and cravings.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a highly effective therapy for addiction. It focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns that contribute to addictive behaviors. It can help your son gain insight into his actions and develop healthier coping strategies.
Motivational Interviewing (MI): This therapy is designed to strengthen your son’s motivation to change. It’s non-confrontational and helps him explore his ambivalence about quitting drugs while focusing on his desire to improve.
3. Rehabilitation Centers (Rehab):
Inpatient Rehab (Residential Treatment Programs): These programs provide a controlled, supportive environment where your son will live while undergoing treatment. He will receive therapy, medical support, and 24/7 care to help him detox and recover. Inpatient rehab is ideal if the addiction is severe or if your son is unable to stop using drugs on his own. Rehab programs typically last between 30 days and several months, depending on the individual’s needs.
Examples of inpatient rehab centers include:
Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation (multiple locations)
The Caron Foundation (multiple locations)
The Recovery Village (multiple locations)
Outpatient Rehab Programs: If your son cannot take time off from work or school, outpatient rehab may be a good option. He can attend therapy sessions several times a week while continuing to live at home. This is ideal for those with less severe addiction or those who have completed inpatient rehab and need continued support.
Examples of outpatient programs include:
SMART Recovery (focused on self-management and recovery)
Outpatient therapy through local mental health centers
4. Support Groups:
Narcotics Anonymous (NA): This is a 12-step program where individuals struggling with addiction can share their experiences, find support, and work through the steps to recovery. It’s free and available in many locations. There are also online meetings if your son is not ready to attend in person.
Al-Anon/Alateen: Al-Anon is for family members who are affected by a loved one's addiction, while Alateen is specifically for teenagers and young adults. These groups provide emotional support and practical advice for coping with the challenges of supporting someone with addiction.
SMART Recovery: Unlike NA, SMART Recovery is a non-12-step program that focuses on self-empowerment and scientifically supported recovery methods. It’s another option that might appeal to your son if he prefers a different approach to traditional 12-step programs.
5. Community Resources:
SAMHSA Helpline: The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration offers a confidential helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357), which operates 24/7. They can provide resources, information on local treatment options, and guidance on the best course of action for your son.
Local Mental Health Centers: Many communities have free or sliding-scale-cost addiction services, including detox centers, therapy, and support groups. Check with local clinics, hospitals, or community organizations.
Nonprofit Organizations: Some nonprofits, such as The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), provide educational resources and links to local treatment centers. Websites like can also be helpful.
6. Interventionists:
Professional Interventionists: If your son is resisting treatment or refuses to acknowledge his addiction, a professional interventionist can help guide your family through the process of organizing an intervention. They can help plan what will be said, ensure the intervention is done in a supportive way, and increase the chances of your son accepting help.
You can find an interventionist through organizations like the Association of Intervention Specialists (AIS) or through recommendations from therapists and rehab centers.
How to Get Started:
Call SAMHSA at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for immediate help and to explore treatment options.
Find a local therapist or counselor to begin therapy for your son. They can help him start the recovery process and recommend further treatments.
Research local rehab centers (either inpatient or outpatient) and see which one fits your son’s needs.
Attend a support group (like NA or Al-Anon) for family members to learn how to support your son while taking care of your own well-being.
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