Counselling in South East Queensland, QLD

Photo of Ericas counselling services, Counsellor in South East Queensland, QLD
Ericas counselling services
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
I work with: mental health, grief and loss, relationships, family violence and substance abuse support.
Family violence support I offer is empathy, psyhoeducation, harm minimisation strategies, safety plans, networking to provide the best support and therapeutic interventions catered for the clients needs. Including self worth, self esteem and gaining resilience power and control over situations. My knowledge highlights work from safe and together a family violence intervention.
I work with: mental health, grief and loss, relationships, family violence and substance abuse support.
Family violence support I offer is empathy, psyhoeducation, harm minimisation strategies, safety plans, networking to provide the best support and therapeutic interventions catered for the clients needs. Including self worth, self esteem and gaining resilience power and control over situations. My knowledge highlights work from safe and together a family violence intervention.
(03) 8595 5150 View (03) 8595 5150
Photo of Jana Maddock Counselling, Counsellor in South East Queensland, QLD
Jana Maddock Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Noosa Heads, QLD 4567  (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Jana, a registered Psychotherapist/Counsellor with a B.Couns. and M.A.C.A. level 4 certification. My practice focuses on supporting young adults, adults, and couples, offering support for various issues including Trauma Counselling, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Abuse, Self Harm and Relationship issues.
Hi there, I'm Jana, a registered Psychotherapist/Counsellor with a B.Couns. and M.A.C.A. level 4 certification. My practice focuses on supporting young adults, adults, and couples, offering support for various issues including Trauma Counselling, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Abuse, Self Harm and Relationship issues.
(07) 5241 1842 View (07) 5241 1842
Photo of Hannah Lohman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South East Queensland, QLD
Hannah Lohman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AASW
Verified Verified
Tugun, QLD 4224
What do you want? This can be the hardest question to answer! I am an experienced mental health clinician committed to helping people discover (or remember) their unique strengths, capabilities, desires and goals. I have worked with people experiencing a very broad range of challenges, from acute mental health issues and addiction to workplace or career difficulties and personal stress. It has become clear to me that beneath all issues, behaviours and labels, we are ultimately all wanting to improve our relationship with ourself and the people around us.
What do you want? This can be the hardest question to answer! I am an experienced mental health clinician committed to helping people discover (or remember) their unique strengths, capabilities, desires and goals. I have worked with people experiencing a very broad range of challenges, from acute mental health issues and addiction to workplace or career difficulties and personal stress. It has become clear to me that beneath all issues, behaviours and labels, we are ultimately all wanting to improve our relationship with ourself and the people around us.
(03) 5910 7523 View (03) 5910 7523
Photo of Heather Woodford, Psychologist in South East Queensland, QLD
Heather Woodford
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Mooloolaba, QLD 4557
Areas of interest include anxiety, issues with mood, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, relationship issues, family and domestic violence, parenting issues, persistent pain and injury rehabilitation, chronic health issues, fertility issues, eating and body image issues, developmental disorders, substance use problems, and veteran mental health.
Heather is a Psychologist at Nurturing Minds, a local clinic on the Sunshine Coast. We have a less clinical feel and focus on providing our clients with a warm and welcoming environment. Heather spent over 20 years working for Government Health Services, Private Hospital settings, and Not-For-Profit organisations, before deciding to focus fully on her private work. She strives to offer a warm, empathic approach as a therapist, as she knows it can be difficult to make that step to see someone. She is non-judgmental and down to earth and her main goal is to assist people to feel at ease and make sense of their issues.
Areas of interest include anxiety, issues with mood, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, relationship issues, family and domestic violence, parenting issues, persistent pain and injury rehabilitation, chronic health issues, fertility issues, eating and body image issues, developmental disorders, substance use problems, and veteran mental health.
Heather is a Psychologist at Nurturing Minds, a local clinic on the Sunshine Coast. We have a less clinical feel and focus on providing our clients with a warm and welcoming environment. Heather spent over 20 years working for Government Health Services, Private Hospital settings, and Not-For-Profit organisations, before deciding to focus fully on her private work. She strives to offer a warm, empathic approach as a therapist, as she knows it can be difficult to make that step to see someone. She is non-judgmental and down to earth and her main goal is to assist people to feel at ease and make sense of their issues.
(07) 5224 2062 View (07) 5224 2062
Photo of Gregg Palmer, Psychotherapist in South East Queensland, QLD
Gregg Palmer
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nerang, QLD 4211  (Online Only)
I have special expertise with the following but if your issue is not listed below please contact me to discuss if I can help: Addiction / Anger Management / Relationship Issues / Work Related Issues / Acute Stress and/or Anxiety / Sexuality and Sexual Issues / Identity Issues / Bereavement and Loss / Depression / Spirituality And Meditation / Lack Of Confid.
I am an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist with an extensive knowledge of working with adults undergoing stress, trauma and crises. I work within a leading edge relational, embodied and psychospiritual context, primarily focused on the unconscious informed by transference and countertransference dynamics. I specialise in working with deep trauma and am skilled at tolerating difficult states, such as profound despair, that, for example, intense self hatred can lead us to. When we lose our own value and meaning in life we can spiral into a black hole.
I have special expertise with the following but if your issue is not listed below please contact me to discuss if I can help: Addiction / Anger Management / Relationship Issues / Work Related Issues / Acute Stress and/or Anxiety / Sexuality and Sexual Issues / Identity Issues / Bereavement and Loss / Depression / Spirituality And Meditation / Lack Of Confid.
I am an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist with an extensive knowledge of working with adults undergoing stress, trauma and crises. I work within a leading edge relational, embodied and psychospiritual context, primarily focused on the unconscious informed by transference and countertransference dynamics. I specialise in working with deep trauma and am skilled at tolerating difficult states, such as profound despair, that, for example, intense self hatred can lead us to. When we lose our own value and meaning in life we can spiral into a black hole.
(07) 2801 6982 View (07) 2801 6982
Photo of Cynthia Dunn, Psychologist in South East Queensland, QLD
Cynthia Dunn
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Upper Coomera, QLD 4209
Cynthia is offering Face2Face sessions at 13 Vanessa Boulevard, Springwood & Telehealth, including EMDR Online. Cynthia is passionate about working with people, from all walks of life, who have experienced complex trauma and uncovering their path to post-traumatic growth. For those who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, attachment or dissociative disorders, PTSD, personality, gender and identity issues, anger, substance misuse, or gambling problems and want change, Artemis can help. Remote & F2F sessions of the Safe & Sound Protocol by Dr Stephen Porges are now available. Book online here: W:artemispsychologyservices/contact
Cynthia is offering Face2Face sessions at 13 Vanessa Boulevard, Springwood & Telehealth, including EMDR Online. Cynthia is passionate about working with people, from all walks of life, who have experienced complex trauma and uncovering their path to post-traumatic growth. For those who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, attachment or dissociative disorders, PTSD, personality, gender and identity issues, anger, substance misuse, or gambling problems and want change, Artemis can help. Remote & F2F sessions of the Safe & Sound Protocol by Dr Stephen Porges are now available. Book online here: W:artemispsychologyservices/contact
(07) 2100 4051 View (07) 2100 4051
Photo of YourSpace Psychology, Psychologist in South East Queensland, QLD
YourSpace Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaudesert, QLD 4285  (Online Only)
We are Queensland based registered telehealth psychologists. Between Shannon and Leah there is a wealth of experience and training in psychological/psychometric assessments, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) intervention, Counselling, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma-Informed Care, and Attachment-Based Therapy. We work with all ages and specialize in the areas of anxiety, depression, substance use, work-related problems, concerns relating to relationships and criminal justice.
We are Queensland based registered telehealth psychologists. Between Shannon and Leah there is a wealth of experience and training in psychological/psychometric assessments, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) intervention, Counselling, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma-Informed Care, and Attachment-Based Therapy. We work with all ages and specialize in the areas of anxiety, depression, substance use, work-related problems, concerns relating to relationships and criminal justice.
(07) 3113 9923 View (07) 3113 9923
Photo of Cheryl Freeman, Psychologist in South East Queensland, QLD
Cheryl Freeman
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
We all experience varying degrees of anxiety or depression, but when those feelings become debilitating, life can lose its colour. You are not alone. I invite you to come and tell your story in a safe space where you can process what you are going through, and begin to move towards a lifestyle that aligns with your values. Whether you are dealing with trauma, relationship difficulties, identity issues, major life changes, grief and loss, work/study problems, addiction or maybe you just want to connect with your best self, my door is open.
We all experience varying degrees of anxiety or depression, but when those feelings become debilitating, life can lose its colour. You are not alone. I invite you to come and tell your story in a safe space where you can process what you are going through, and begin to move towards a lifestyle that aligns with your values. Whether you are dealing with trauma, relationship difficulties, identity issues, major life changes, grief and loss, work/study problems, addiction or maybe you just want to connect with your best self, my door is open.
(07) 5508 0950 View (07) 5508 0950
Photo of Richard Elms Therapy Training Consulting, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South East Queensland, QLD
Richard Elms Therapy Training Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Parrearra, QLD 4575  (Online Only)
Richard provides therapy for children, adolescents & adults with issues including anxiety & depression, behavioural problems, domestic violence, anger problems, sexual abuse, addiction, disability, trauma, parenting challenges, relationship problems etc.
Richard Elms is an experienced therapist, offering compassionate and solution focussed counselling, working together with his clients to create meaningful and lasting change in their lives. Richard also provides clinical and professional supervision as well as training to other professionals.
Richard provides therapy for children, adolescents & adults with issues including anxiety & depression, behavioural problems, domestic violence, anger problems, sexual abuse, addiction, disability, trauma, parenting challenges, relationship problems etc.
Richard Elms is an experienced therapist, offering compassionate and solution focussed counselling, working together with his clients to create meaningful and lasting change in their lives. Richard also provides clinical and professional supervision as well as training to other professionals.
(07) 5241 2997 View (07) 5241 2997
Photo of Psych-ed Psychology / Sandy Ogier, Psychologist in South East Queensland, QLD
Psych-ed Psychology / Sandy Ogier
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
She has additional expertise in Chronic pain, Gambling Addiction, Suicide prevention, and Carer's resilience.
We offer 100% customised treatment plan, combining specific self-exploration and mindfulness, with the result of feeling less stuck and being able to move forward in life using inner strengths long term. A powerful new psychotherapy based on cutting-edge research into how the human mind works (3rd wave CBT), called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, is used to create a meaningful life (perspectives and values) and skills. It has been clinically proven to be successful in a wide range of psychological problems such as Anxiety, trauma, self/shame, depression, stress, bullying, emotions/anger/grief, sleep, and suicidal thoughts.
She has additional expertise in Chronic pain, Gambling Addiction, Suicide prevention, and Carer's resilience.
We offer 100% customised treatment plan, combining specific self-exploration and mindfulness, with the result of feeling less stuck and being able to move forward in life using inner strengths long term. A powerful new psychotherapy based on cutting-edge research into how the human mind works (3rd wave CBT), called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, is used to create a meaningful life (perspectives and values) and skills. It has been clinically proven to be successful in a wide range of psychological problems such as Anxiety, trauma, self/shame, depression, stress, bullying, emotions/anger/grief, sleep, and suicidal thoughts.
(03) 6146 3252 View (03) 6146 3252
Photo of Margot Trinder, Psychologist in South East Queensland, QLD
Margot Trinder
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Coolum Beach, QLD 4573  (Online Only)
The Issues I can assist you with include: anxiety, depression and stress, trauma, grief and loss, lifestage transitions, parenting, substance addictions, neurodiversity and relationship difficulties .
I am a warm and experienced psychologist working with adults across the lifespan to address a broad range of issues. I bring deep respect and awareness to how each person's story, needs and circumstances are different. I draw from my decades of experience and professional training across a wide range of therapeutic modalities. My work is guided by a strong systemic approach: seeing all parts of a person, as well as the layers of relationships, family, work, culture and society that have and continue to influence and shape us. My approach ensures that each person I work with receives support tailored specifically for them.
The Issues I can assist you with include: anxiety, depression and stress, trauma, grief and loss, lifestage transitions, parenting, substance addictions, neurodiversity and relationship difficulties .
I am a warm and experienced psychologist working with adults across the lifespan to address a broad range of issues. I bring deep respect and awareness to how each person's story, needs and circumstances are different. I draw from my decades of experience and professional training across a wide range of therapeutic modalities. My work is guided by a strong systemic approach: seeing all parts of a person, as well as the layers of relationships, family, work, culture and society that have and continue to influence and shape us. My approach ensures that each person I work with receives support tailored specifically for them.
(07) 5240 9828 View (07) 5240 9828
Photo of Freeman Clinic, Psychologist in South East Queensland, QLD
Freeman Clinic
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Landsborough, QLD 4550
I work with adults of all ages who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction and attentional issues. My forte is empowering clients to access their own inner resources and strengths so they can return to health and well being.
I work with adults of all ages who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction and attentional issues. My forte is empowering clients to access their own inner resources and strengths so they can return to health and well being.
(07) 5240 7000 View (07) 5240 7000
Photo of Rhiannon Flavel, Psychotherapist in South East Queensland, QLD
Rhiannon Flavel
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
I work with adults & adolescents experiencing complex trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, anger, life transitions, grief & loss, overwhelm & stress, LGBTQIA+ issues, & relational challenges between people who long to connect more fully.
My approach as a psychotherapist is holistic, non-judgemental, trauma informed & deeply relational. I have worked in various roles including mental health counselling, outdoor education teaching, adventure therapy, wilderness rites of passage, & group facilitation for over a decade, supporting adults, young people & families. I bring these diverse experiences into my therapeutic practice to offer a specialised approach to this transformational work.
I work with adults & adolescents experiencing complex trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, anger, life transitions, grief & loss, overwhelm & stress, LGBTQIA+ issues, & relational challenges between people who long to connect more fully.
My approach as a psychotherapist is holistic, non-judgemental, trauma informed & deeply relational. I have worked in various roles including mental health counselling, outdoor education teaching, adventure therapy, wilderness rites of passage, & group facilitation for over a decade, supporting adults, young people & families. I bring these diverse experiences into my therapeutic practice to offer a specialised approach to this transformational work.
(02) 5016 7519 View (02) 5016 7519
Photo of Nicole Trewick | Psychologist | Zenith Humans, Psychologist in South East Queensland, QLD
Nicole Trewick | Psychologist | Zenith Humans
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Southport, QLD 4215
Nicole provides both short-term and long-term therapy to help support and empower individuals to process traumatic experiences, overcome addiction and distress, create meaningful change, and improve emotional wellbeing.
Nicole is a registered psychologist who provides evidence-based client-centric interventions for a range of psychological presentations including trauma (PTSD, complex trauma/PTSD), psychosis (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder), addictions, mood disorders, stress and burnout, anxiety, and life transitions. She also works with athletes and professionals who need support for their wellbeing and development of mental skills to improve performance.
Nicole provides both short-term and long-term therapy to help support and empower individuals to process traumatic experiences, overcome addiction and distress, create meaningful change, and improve emotional wellbeing.
Nicole is a registered psychologist who provides evidence-based client-centric interventions for a range of psychological presentations including trauma (PTSD, complex trauma/PTSD), psychosis (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder), addictions, mood disorders, stress and burnout, anxiety, and life transitions. She also works with athletes and professionals who need support for their wellbeing and development of mental skills to improve performance.
(07) 2801 5339 View (07) 2801 5339
Photo of Ebonie Stewart, Psychologist in South East Queensland, QLD
Ebonie Stewart
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Broadbeach, QLD 4218  (Online Only)
Ebonie is a passionate and empathetic registered psychologist who can provide thorough assessment and intervention across all ages. Ebonie's aim is to work collaboratively with you to enhance your mental health and achieve your goals. Ebonie has worked in a wide variety of settings including Psychiatric Hospital, Schools, Industry, Forensic, Private Practice and Primary Health Care Network. Ebonie has a keen interest in helping clients with substance use and addiction. She also work with offenders and can provide forensic court reports.
Ebonie is a passionate and empathetic registered psychologist who can provide thorough assessment and intervention across all ages. Ebonie's aim is to work collaboratively with you to enhance your mental health and achieve your goals. Ebonie has worked in a wide variety of settings including Psychiatric Hospital, Schools, Industry, Forensic, Private Practice and Primary Health Care Network. Ebonie has a keen interest in helping clients with substance use and addiction. She also work with offenders and can provide forensic court reports.
1800 327 477 View 1800 327 477
Photo of Alicia Garrett , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South East Queensland, QLD
Alicia Garrett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Maroochydore, QLD 4558
Hi, I'm Alicia. I am passionate about providing specialist mental health support. I have worked with teens, adults and families experiencing a diverse range of difficulties including; anxiety, depression, family violence, relationship difficulties/breakdowns, personality disorders, complex trauma/trauma, disordered eating, low self-esteem and substance misuse. I believe in developing respectful, authentic and open-minded relationships with each person I work with. My approach is inclusive, relaxed and when appropriate humorous and playful.
Hi, I'm Alicia. I am passionate about providing specialist mental health support. I have worked with teens, adults and families experiencing a diverse range of difficulties including; anxiety, depression, family violence, relationship difficulties/breakdowns, personality disorders, complex trauma/trauma, disordered eating, low self-esteem and substance misuse. I believe in developing respectful, authentic and open-minded relationships with each person I work with. My approach is inclusive, relaxed and when appropriate humorous and playful.
(07) 5240 9990 View (07) 5240 9990
Photo of Sandra Morris, Counsellor in South East Queensland, QLD
Sandra Morris
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am an experienced, holistic minded and professional counsellor implementing effective person-centred practices and working from an ethical framework meeting confidentiality, privacy and quality standards with insurance and ACA registration. I am skilled, empathetic and passionate with experience and an understanding of addiction, trauma, BPD, relationship and family issues to name a few.
I am an experienced, holistic minded and professional counsellor implementing effective person-centred practices and working from an ethical framework meeting confidentiality, privacy and quality standards with insurance and ACA registration. I am skilled, empathetic and passionate with experience and an understanding of addiction, trauma, BPD, relationship and family issues to name a few.
(07) 2801 6333 View (07) 2801 6333
Photo of Natalee Cooper, Counsellor in South East Queensland, QLD
Natalee Cooper
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Moreton Bay, QLD 4178
My name is Natalee and I am a registered trauma informed counsellor with 2 locations in Brisbane's northern suburbs of Narangba and Elimbah. I have extensive experience with anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD and relationship concerns. Reaching out for support can be overwhelming in itself. I provide a calm, compassionate, non-judgemental space for clients where you will be heard and valued. I will work with you to develop a treatment plan that you are comfortable with to achieve your goals. Please read my reviews on Google and Facebook under my business name Holistic Wellness Australia.
My name is Natalee and I am a registered trauma informed counsellor with 2 locations in Brisbane's northern suburbs of Narangba and Elimbah. I have extensive experience with anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD and relationship concerns. Reaching out for support can be overwhelming in itself. I provide a calm, compassionate, non-judgemental space for clients where you will be heard and valued. I will work with you to develop a treatment plan that you are comfortable with to achieve your goals. Please read my reviews on Google and Facebook under my business name Holistic Wellness Australia.
(07) 4243 4377 View (07) 4243 4377
Photo of Michael Burgess, Counsellor in South East Queensland, QLD
Michael Burgess
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Beaudesert, QLD 4285
During 20 years as a front-line ambulance paramedic I have attended to people from many backgrounds in crisis. I have seen how experiences such as anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction and family issues can contribute to chronic illnesses. They may also develop from a difficult life event. I am committed to helping people by compassionate listening and by exploring their natural resilience and coping strategies. Building awareness and acceptance of oneself in a safe therapy space leads to change and growth.
During 20 years as a front-line ambulance paramedic I have attended to people from many backgrounds in crisis. I have seen how experiences such as anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction and family issues can contribute to chronic illnesses. They may also develop from a difficult life event. I am committed to helping people by compassionate listening and by exploring their natural resilience and coping strategies. Building awareness and acceptance of oneself in a safe therapy space leads to change and growth.
(07) 5648 2748 View (07) 5648 2748
Photo of Dean Rogers Counselling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South East Queensland, QLD
Dean Rogers Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Caloundra, QLD 4551
My practice is geared for individuals & couples who struggle with relationship issues which may include common healthy relationship barriers such as addiction, anger, anxiety & stress, depression, grief and loss. As a vital aspect of the human experience, fostering healthy social and intimate relationships is a key component of the Positive Relationships client experience. Whether it is strengthening connection through development of emotional intelligence, learning the art of communication or resolving conflict, the Positive Relationship model will help you achieve your mutual relationship goals. Be prepared for a new connection.
My practice is geared for individuals & couples who struggle with relationship issues which may include common healthy relationship barriers such as addiction, anger, anxiety & stress, depression, grief and loss. As a vital aspect of the human experience, fostering healthy social and intimate relationships is a key component of the Positive Relationships client experience. Whether it is strengthening connection through development of emotional intelligence, learning the art of communication or resolving conflict, the Positive Relationship model will help you achieve your mutual relationship goals. Be prepared for a new connection.
(07) 5230 3758 View (07) 5230 3758

See more therapy options for South East Queensland

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.