Addiction therapy can refer to a number of different treatment methods that help people overcome alcohol, drug, or gambling addictions, among many others. Though some individuals are court-ordered to attend treatment sessions, many people voluntarily seek addiction therapy to regain control of their lives. People can find help in anonymous group therapy meetings, outpatient and inpatient treatment centers, psychologists' offices, and mental health facilities.

Organizations such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous offer non-medical addiction therapy for individuals. These organizations promote a 12 step recovery program, which stresses the importance of abstinence from addictive substances, spiritual health, and service work. Members discuss their experiences, problems, and successes with one another in group meetings. Meetings are usually open to the public and free to attend, though local groups depend on financial donations from members to maintain facilities and resources.

Individuals admit themselves into treatment centers to find help with their addictions. Treatment centers may offer outpatient or inpatient services, in which clients attend group and individual counseling sessions facilitated by licensed addiction counselors or psychologists. New clients are often interviewed and examined upon entry into a treatment center to determine their specific medical and mental health needs. A client with a severe, active alcohol or drug addiction may receive medical detoxification services to cleanse his or her body of harmful chemicals. When needed, regular medication is administered by qualified nurses or residential counselors.

Many practicing psychologists specialize in addiction therapy. A licensed psychologist can meet regularly with an addict to discuss his or her problems and design an appropriate program of recovery. Sessions may entail casual conversations about the client's daily activities or intensive psychotherapy to uncover the nature of his or her addiction. The psychologist may refer individuals with acute physical or mental health issues to a medical doctor or psychiatrist to provide additional care.

Addiction therapy often involves a combination of treatment strategies. Many substance abuse treatment centers, for example, employ the same 12 step recovery programs featured in Alcoholics Anonymous and similar group meetings. Clients may be required to attend meetings as a part of their inpatient or outpatient recovery program. People who do unable to find success with other treatment methods may be admitted into mental health hospitals, where they can be constantly monitored and receive highly-individualized care by physicians, nurses, and counselors. With enough determination and the support of caring individuals, many people learn how to manage their own lives and maintain healthy personal and professional relationships.