Addiction Counselling in Port Douglas, QLD

Photo of Jana Maddock - Jana Maddock Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Jana Maddock Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Online Only
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.
My primary therapeutic approach is the Internal Family System Therapy (IFS), which aims to restore trust in self-leadership, achieve harmony and balance, and bring self-energy to the system. I also integrate Solution Focused Therapy (SFT) and Mindfulness Based Therapies (MBT) to provide a holistic approach to healing.
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.
My primary therapeutic approach is the Internal Family System Therapy (IFS), which aims to restore trust in self-leadership, achieve harmony and balance, and bring self-energy to the system. I also integrate Solution Focused Therapy (SFT) and Mindfulness Based Therapies (MBT) to provide a holistic approach to healing.
(07) 5241 1842 View (07) 5241 1842
Photo of Victoria Ivanek - Flourish Counselling QLD, Counsellor
As a qualified and incredibly dedicated trauma informed counsellor, I work with adults (18+) to support your mental and emotional health. Whether it be ongoing mental health struggles, or challenging life circumstances - it’s my absolute pleasure to help you navigate whatever turbulence you may be facing, guiding you toward better days ahead. For short or long term support, I can help you in many areas including: - Depression - Anxiety - Stress - Self esteem - Grief and loss support - Relationship support - Alcohol and other drugs - Life and career guidance - Conflict resolution, boundaries and assertiveness & more!
As a qualified and incredibly dedicated trauma informed counsellor, I work with adults (18+) to support your mental and emotional health. Whether it be ongoing mental health struggles, or challenging life circumstances - it’s my absolute pleasure to help you navigate whatever turbulence you may be facing, guiding you toward better days ahead. For short or long term support, I can help you in many areas including: - Depression - Anxiety - Stress - Self esteem - Grief and loss support - Relationship support - Alcohol and other drugs - Life and career guidance - Conflict resolution, boundaries and assertiveness & more!
(08) 6629 4246 View (08) 6629 4246

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tammy Maskill, Counsellor
Tammy Maskill
Counsellor
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work primarily with trauma, substance use issues/addictions.
I have a bachelor’s degree in counselling and have carried out (and continue to carry out) further training in both trauma and addictions. Before moving into private practice, I worked as an Alcohol and Other Drug Clinician within the community sector.
I work primarily with trauma, substance use issues/addictions.
I have a bachelor’s degree in counselling and have carried out (and continue to carry out) further training in both trauma and addictions. Before moving into private practice, I worked as an Alcohol and Other Drug Clinician within the community sector.
(03) 9118 9023 View (03) 9118 9023
Photo of Izumi Yamaguchi, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Izumi Yamaguchi
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Serves Area
I have experienced with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, grief, addiction, adjustment problems and relationship concerns.
I am passionate to help clients overcome their challenges and take meaningful steps toward a better future. By exploring clients' internal conflicts and working on underlying vulnerabilities, I assist clients in finding ways together to alleviate or solve them.
I have experienced with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, grief, addiction, adjustment problems and relationship concerns.
I am passionate to help clients overcome their challenges and take meaningful steps toward a better future. By exploring clients' internal conflicts and working on underlying vulnerabilities, I assist clients in finding ways together to alleviate or solve them.
(03) 7003 2420 View (03) 7003 2420
Photo of Cynthia Dunn, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Cynthia Dunn
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Addiction focused EMDR & other modalities are available.
Cynthia is offering F2F sessions at 13 Vanessa Boulevard, Springwood on Friday-Saturday. Telehealth sessions are available Thursday with Online EMDR & reduced fee options. I am passionate about working with men, women & youth who have experienced adverse events and uncovering their path to recovery. For those who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, addictions, sexual abuse, dissociative disorders, PTSD, anger, or gambling problems and want change, Artemis can help. Presentence Court reports are also available. Please visit website for resources, book online or email. "When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be."
Addiction focused EMDR & other modalities are available.
Cynthia is offering F2F sessions at 13 Vanessa Boulevard, Springwood on Friday-Saturday. Telehealth sessions are available Thursday with Online EMDR & reduced fee options. I am passionate about working with men, women & youth who have experienced adverse events and uncovering their path to recovery. For those who may be experiencing depression, anxiety, addictions, sexual abuse, dissociative disorders, PTSD, anger, or gambling problems and want change, Artemis can help. Presentence Court reports are also available. Please visit website for resources, book online or email. "When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be."
(07) 2100 4051 View (07) 2100 4051
Photo of Bridie Gigney - Just Breathe Therapy Services , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Just Breathe Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Serves Area
Focused Psychological strategies We can assist in the following areas: Depression Anxiety Disorders PTSD Obsessive compulsive Substance Abuse/ Addiction Behaviour Relationship Concerns Parent / Child conflict Trauma Dissociation and dissociative disorders.
Just Breathe Values The Ability To Understand, Have Compassion And Share Feelings are Paramount to Building New Experiences And Sets The Stage For Achieving Measurable, Positive Change. Therapy Is A Collaborative Approach Founded On Mutual Trust And Respect And Is Founded In Cooperation. Positive Change And Growth Are Possible As We All Have The Tools Necessary To Lead A Rich And Fulfilling Life We All Possess The Quality To Be Outstanding And Achieving Excellence Is Possible Honesty And Showing A Consistent Adherence To Strong Moral And Ethical Principles And Values Is Of The Utmost Importance.
Focused Psychological strategies We can assist in the following areas: Depression Anxiety Disorders PTSD Obsessive compulsive Substance Abuse/ Addiction Behaviour Relationship Concerns Parent / Child conflict Trauma Dissociation and dissociative disorders.
Just Breathe Values The Ability To Understand, Have Compassion And Share Feelings are Paramount to Building New Experiences And Sets The Stage For Achieving Measurable, Positive Change. Therapy Is A Collaborative Approach Founded On Mutual Trust And Respect And Is Founded In Cooperation. Positive Change And Growth Are Possible As We All Have The Tools Necessary To Lead A Rich And Fulfilling Life We All Possess The Quality To Be Outstanding And Achieving Excellence Is Possible Honesty And Showing A Consistent Adherence To Strong Moral And Ethical Principles And Values Is Of The Utmost Importance.
(08) 7534 5994 View (08) 7534 5994
Photo of Alicia Marie Garrett - Alicia Garrett - Vista Counselling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Alicia Garrett - Vista Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Online Only
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.
My therapeutic approach is underpinned by trauma-informed practice. Supporting people to develop a deeper understanding of their experiences at individual and relational levels; whilst empowering them with knowledge, understanding and skills. I am also trained in; Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectic Behavioural.
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.
My therapeutic approach is underpinned by trauma-informed practice. Supporting people to develop a deeper understanding of their experiences at individual and relational levels; whilst empowering them with knowledge, understanding and skills. I am also trained in; Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectic Behavioural.
(07) 5240 9990 View (07) 5240 9990
Photo of Sidney Mandis, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Sport Psych.
Sidney Mandis
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Sport Psych.
Online Only
I work holistically with individuals and athletes presenting with various difficulties in life such as: anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, sexual trauma, addiction, stress, burnout, low self-esteem, body image issues, anger management, relationship issues, ASD, injury rehabilitation, sports performance, motivation, confidence.
I believe in a holistic approach to overall mental wellbeing and peak performance. My services encompass a collaborative and person-centred approach to working with clients.
I work holistically with individuals and athletes presenting with various difficulties in life such as: anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, sexual trauma, addiction, stress, burnout, low self-esteem, body image issues, anger management, relationship issues, ASD, injury rehabilitation, sports performance, motivation, confidence.
I believe in a holistic approach to overall mental wellbeing and peak performance. My services encompass a collaborative and person-centred approach to working with clients.
(08) 7666 0416 View (08) 7666 0416
Photo of Syann Hamden - Syann - MSNQC Counselling & Expressive Therapies, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Syann - MSNQC Counselling & Expressive Therapies
Counsellor, ACA-L1
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I run Mindscape NQ with my husband, Frederick, who specialises in working with men struggling with addiction issues.
Hi, I'm Syann. I’m a compassionate, person-centered counsellor dedicated to supporting women, young people (13+), and couples through life’s transitions and challenges. I tailor my approach to suit your unique needs, I provide a safe, non-judgmental, supportive space for reflection, healing and growth. I offer face-2-face sessions in Townsville on Flinders Street and sessions via Zoom and telephone. For more about me and the services I offer, please take a look at my website where you can also book a free 15 min. discussion. I specialise in areas such as cancer diagnosis, depression, relationship concerns, parenting, and trauma.
I run Mindscape NQ with my husband, Frederick, who specialises in working with men struggling with addiction issues.
Hi, I'm Syann. I’m a compassionate, person-centered counsellor dedicated to supporting women, young people (13+), and couples through life’s transitions and challenges. I tailor my approach to suit your unique needs, I provide a safe, non-judgmental, supportive space for reflection, healing and growth. I offer face-2-face sessions in Townsville on Flinders Street and sessions via Zoom and telephone. For more about me and the services I offer, please take a look at my website where you can also book a free 15 min. discussion. I specialise in areas such as cancer diagnosis, depression, relationship concerns, parenting, and trauma.
(07) 4439 9962 View (07) 4439 9962
Photo of Lauren Lacey - Free Your Body Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Free Your Body Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Serves Area
Now I help people worldwide overcome eating disorder recovery, exercise addiction, and have a joyful and effortless relationship with movement and food.
Lauren has a Master’s in Counselling and Psychotherapy, Certified Psychedelic assisted therapy, a Degree in Nutrition Dietetics, Naturopathy, and a Graduate Dip in Psychology. Integrating these holistic and scientific approaches enables a whole person-centered approach tailored to the unique needs of the individual.
Now I help people worldwide overcome eating disorder recovery, exercise addiction, and have a joyful and effortless relationship with movement and food.
Lauren has a Master’s in Counselling and Psychotherapy, Certified Psychedelic assisted therapy, a Degree in Nutrition Dietetics, Naturopathy, and a Graduate Dip in Psychology. Integrating these holistic and scientific approaches enables a whole person-centered approach tailored to the unique needs of the individual.
(02) 4504 0383 View (02) 4504 0383
Photo of Samantha Shepherd - Ability To Thrive Counselling and Life Coaching, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Ability To Thrive Counselling and Life Coaching
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I have worked for 13 years as a counsellor and life coach in a residential rehabilitation setting providing me with a wealth of skills and knowledge in working with people experiencing substance misuse issues with coexisting mental health diagnosis and related traumas including legal, personal, family and relationship challenges.
I am a registered Counsellor, Psychosocial Recovery Coach and Supervisor who offers support both via telehealth and face to face by arrangement I have an empathic, compassionate approach through which I provide a safe, nonjudgemental space to work collaboratively in encouraging and empowering people to navigate challenges in their day-to-day life and achieve their goals. I take a holistic approach encompassing the mental, emotional, physical, social and wellbeing. I use a client centred, solution focused and trauma informed approach using a mix of CBT, ACT and DBT methodologies.
I have worked for 13 years as a counsellor and life coach in a residential rehabilitation setting providing me with a wealth of skills and knowledge in working with people experiencing substance misuse issues with coexisting mental health diagnosis and related traumas including legal, personal, family and relationship challenges.
I am a registered Counsellor, Psychosocial Recovery Coach and Supervisor who offers support both via telehealth and face to face by arrangement I have an empathic, compassionate approach through which I provide a safe, nonjudgemental space to work collaboratively in encouraging and empowering people to navigate challenges in their day-to-day life and achieve their goals. I take a holistic approach encompassing the mental, emotional, physical, social and wellbeing. I use a client centred, solution focused and trauma informed approach using a mix of CBT, ACT and DBT methodologies.
(07) 3477 9563 View (07) 3477 9563
Photo of Carlyn Chen, Counsellor, PACFA
Carlyn Chen
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
I am experienced seeing clients with issues such as attachment trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, oppression, racism, cultural issues, sexual abuse, childhood trauma, identity issues, religious trauma, grief, domestic violence, family issues and relationships.
I am a Teochew person working on Gadigal land, working to decolonise myself and my therapy to offer culturally sensitive and inclusive counselling to people of all cultures and identities. I offer trauma-informed, integrative therapy that will be tailored to your needs, taking into account mind, body, nervous system, emotions and context. I believe in the innate capacity of each person to heal and will work collaboratively with you to uncover and grow this. I have provided holistic counselling and case management support to young people and adults experiencing complex trauma in the not for profit and health sectors since 2015.
I am experienced seeing clients with issues such as attachment trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, oppression, racism, cultural issues, sexual abuse, childhood trauma, identity issues, religious trauma, grief, domestic violence, family issues and relationships.
I am a Teochew person working on Gadigal land, working to decolonise myself and my therapy to offer culturally sensitive and inclusive counselling to people of all cultures and identities. I offer trauma-informed, integrative therapy that will be tailored to your needs, taking into account mind, body, nervous system, emotions and context. I believe in the innate capacity of each person to heal and will work collaboratively with you to uncover and grow this. I have provided holistic counselling and case management support to young people and adults experiencing complex trauma in the not for profit and health sectors since 2015.
(02) 9100 0467 View (02) 9100 0467
Photo of Catherine O'Leary - first things first counselling, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
first things first counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Online Only
I am an experienced trauma-&IFS-informed therapist. I work well with people who are ready to do 'the work'. I briefly bring strategies that can be useful to your everyday life initially, relying on modalities such as mindfulness and polyvagal theory, before moving into deeper work based in Internal Family Systems (IFS), if and when the time is right. I assist/guide you to reveal and heal the parts of you that carry thoughts, feelings and behaviours that no longer serve you. It is not always doom and gloom. We work together light-heartedly to safely reveal your unconscious motivations and inner strength, towards lasting healing.
I am an experienced trauma-&IFS-informed therapist. I work well with people who are ready to do 'the work'. I briefly bring strategies that can be useful to your everyday life initially, relying on modalities such as mindfulness and polyvagal theory, before moving into deeper work based in Internal Family Systems (IFS), if and when the time is right. I assist/guide you to reveal and heal the parts of you that carry thoughts, feelings and behaviours that no longer serve you. It is not always doom and gloom. We work together light-heartedly to safely reveal your unconscious motivations and inner strength, towards lasting healing.
(02) 9100 0725 View (02) 9100 0725
At Cramli Psychological and Behavioural Services (CPBS) we offer therapeutic and evidence based interventions specifically for parents, children, teenagers, adults and their families, where emotional, behavioural and developmental concerns are present. CPBS focuses on providing strategies to assist with reducing symptoms of mental health, increasing emotional intelligence, emotional regulation and building an understanding of their triggers and early warning signs.
At Cramli Psychological and Behavioural Services (CPBS) we offer therapeutic and evidence based interventions specifically for parents, children, teenagers, adults and their families, where emotional, behavioural and developmental concerns are present. CPBS focuses on providing strategies to assist with reducing symptoms of mental health, increasing emotional intelligence, emotional regulation and building an understanding of their triggers and early warning signs.
(03) 5726 4706 View (03) 5726 4706
Photo of Frederick P Hamden - Frederick Hamden-Mindscape NQ Counselling Services, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Frederick Hamden-Mindscape NQ Counselling Services
Counsellor, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You’ve been carrying a lot — the expectations, the pressure, the silence. Maybe you’re successful on the outside, but inside, you feel stuck, worn out, or disconnected. I work with men who are ready to stop pushing it all down and start making meaningful change. Whether it’s anxiety, burnout, anger, or a sense that something’s just off, this is a space where you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Together, we’ll get to the heart of what’s going on — and work toward real, lasting relief. Feel free to contact me and ask questions.
You’ve been carrying a lot — the expectations, the pressure, the silence. Maybe you’re successful on the outside, but inside, you feel stuck, worn out, or disconnected. I work with men who are ready to stop pushing it all down and start making meaningful change. Whether it’s anxiety, burnout, anger, or a sense that something’s just off, this is a space where you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Together, we’ll get to the heart of what’s going on — and work toward real, lasting relief. Feel free to contact me and ask questions.
(07) 4439 9777 View (07) 4439 9777
Photo of Jess Yeh, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Jess Yeh
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
Jessica is a dedicated, professional, and passionate registered psychologist with more than 5 years of experience in providing culturally aware and evidence-based interventions within both private and public sectors. Jessica takes a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental approach to each client. She takes immense pride in treating all clients fairly with mutual respect and understanding regardless of cultural, religious, ethnic, and linguistic backgrounds. Jessica has a strong passion in working with couples, families, adolescents, LGBTQI+, and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) individuals.
Jessica is a dedicated, professional, and passionate registered psychologist with more than 5 years of experience in providing culturally aware and evidence-based interventions within both private and public sectors. Jessica takes a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental approach to each client. She takes immense pride in treating all clients fairly with mutual respect and understanding regardless of cultural, religious, ethnic, and linguistic backgrounds. Jessica has a strong passion in working with couples, families, adolescents, LGBTQI+, and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) individuals.
1800 327 477 View 1800 327 477
Photo of Cody Tonkin, Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Cody Tonkin
Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Online Only
Cody is a registered psychologist who works towards long lasting change by helping you understand how your past can influence your present and by looking at the roots of an issue. In doing so, she hopes to help you develop a deeper sense of self, whilst also uncovering patterns that have developed over time that can be transformed into healthier ways of living. Cody welcomes you to a safe, warm and non-judgemental space where you can feel comfortable to explore and share what you need.
Cody is a registered psychologist who works towards long lasting change by helping you understand how your past can influence your present and by looking at the roots of an issue. In doing so, she hopes to help you develop a deeper sense of self, whilst also uncovering patterns that have developed over time that can be transformed into healthier ways of living. Cody welcomes you to a safe, warm and non-judgemental space where you can feel comfortable to explore and share what you need.
(03) 9118 9048 View (03) 9118 9048
Photo of Doug Nichols - Kindred Counselling and Psychotherapy, Counsellor, PACFA
As humans, we all aim to live meaningfully in the world, to connect, to belong & to flourish. My role is to support you to make sense of your experience, by co-creating a safe, calm, & compassionate space within which you can manage & process your concerns, to re-establish those meaningful connections in life. To address your concerns, I will work with you to tailor a variety of evidence-based modalities & approaches to support you in the most therapeutically beneficial way. I am an accredited, clinical practitioner, with over 9 years’ experience working in the health industry addressing various areas of support, & diagnosis.
As humans, we all aim to live meaningfully in the world, to connect, to belong & to flourish. My role is to support you to make sense of your experience, by co-creating a safe, calm, & compassionate space within which you can manage & process your concerns, to re-establish those meaningful connections in life. To address your concerns, I will work with you to tailor a variety of evidence-based modalities & approaches to support you in the most therapeutically beneficial way. I am an accredited, clinical practitioner, with over 9 years’ experience working in the health industry addressing various areas of support, & diagnosis.
(07) 4079 0848 View (07) 4079 0848
Photo of Advaitha Sriramaneni, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Advaitha Sriramaneni
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Smithfield, QLD 4878
I’m an experienced mental health counsellor dedicated to helping individuals of all ages overcome mental health challenges. With a Master’s degree in Counselling, Mental Health, and Rehabilitation, along with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology (Honours), I bring a solid educational foundation to my practice. I specialise in supporting individuals dealing with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, grief, and trauma, and I am equipped to help those navigating racial/ethnic identity crises, alcohol and drug dependency, school or work-related stress, and relationship difficulties.
I’m an experienced mental health counsellor dedicated to helping individuals of all ages overcome mental health challenges. With a Master’s degree in Counselling, Mental Health, and Rehabilitation, along with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology (Honours), I bring a solid educational foundation to my practice. I specialise in supporting individuals dealing with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, grief, and trauma, and I am equipped to help those navigating racial/ethnic identity crises, alcohol and drug dependency, school or work-related stress, and relationship difficulties.
(03) 7302 2470 View (03) 7302 2470
Photo of Eliza Mealey, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Eliza Mealey
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I am a qualified counsellor registered with ACA and hold a BD of Creative Arts Psychotherapy from Ikon Institute Australia. The combination of having experience in both counselling and art therapy allows me to reach a diverse clientele. I work in a holistic way, guiding clients towards their strengths. I have experience working with adults who face life challenges and young children and adolescents who have social, emotional and behavioural issues. I facilitate individual counselling and group therapy/art therapy for adolescents who struggle with self identity and the pressures that come with school/family and social settings.
I am a qualified counsellor registered with ACA and hold a BD of Creative Arts Psychotherapy from Ikon Institute Australia. The combination of having experience in both counselling and art therapy allows me to reach a diverse clientele. I work in a holistic way, guiding clients towards their strengths. I have experience working with adults who face life challenges and young children and adolescents who have social, emotional and behavioural issues. I facilitate individual counselling and group therapy/art therapy for adolescents who struggle with self identity and the pressures that come with school/family and social settings.
(07) 3132 2928 View (07) 3132 2928

Nearby Addiction Counsellors Searches for Port Douglas

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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.