Addiction Counselling in South East Queensland, QLD

Photo of Josie Coco, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Josie Coco
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Maleny, QLD 4552
My work has given me extensive experience with anxiety and depression, recovery from substance and non- substance addictions, PTSD, cPTSD
When life becomes challenging, our time together will support you to overcome mental and emotional obstacles to thriving and living well. My work is trauma informed with multiple evidence-based and evidence-informed therapy methodologies to provide an wholistic approach. Private health funds have approved my psychotherapy work with provider numbers, if you have the appropriate health insurance cover. I work with private clients only, and support students of Gestalt Psychotherapy. Schedule a complimentary discovery call, through my website.
My work has given me extensive experience with anxiety and depression, recovery from substance and non- substance addictions, PTSD, cPTSD
When life becomes challenging, our time together will support you to overcome mental and emotional obstacles to thriving and living well. My work is trauma informed with multiple evidence-based and evidence-informed therapy methodologies to provide an wholistic approach. Private health funds have approved my psychotherapy work with provider numbers, if you have the appropriate health insurance cover. I work with private clients only, and support students of Gestalt Psychotherapy. Schedule a complimentary discovery call, through my website.
(07) 5224 2070 View (07) 5224 2070
Jane Veronica Gray
Counsellor
Upper Coomera, QLD 4209
For over 10 years I have worked within the mental health and addiction field and graduated with a Bachelor of Addiction Studies in 2019. I have had a personal experience of mental health and addiction recovery, and I know that a lived experience, coupled with academic learning has given me a unique insight into how to connect with people in a genuine, empathic, hope-filled, non-judgemental way. My areas of expertise are: Alcohol and drug use recovery, Non- substance addiction support, Mental health support, Solo parenting, Relationship grief and loss.
For over 10 years I have worked within the mental health and addiction field and graduated with a Bachelor of Addiction Studies in 2019. I have had a personal experience of mental health and addiction recovery, and I know that a lived experience, coupled with academic learning has given me a unique insight into how to connect with people in a genuine, empathic, hope-filled, non-judgemental way. My areas of expertise are: Alcohol and drug use recovery, Non- substance addiction support, Mental health support, Solo parenting, Relationship grief and loss.
(07) 2801 6642 View (07) 2801 6642
Photo of Gregg Palmer, Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L3
Gregg Palmer
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L3
1 Endorsed
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 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 Patrick Pheasant - Dr Patrick Pheasant, Counsellor, PhD, ACA-L2
Dr Patrick Pheasant
Counsellor, PhD, ACA-L2
Online Only
But underneath, you are carrying the weight of unresolved trauma, anxiety, or patterns of addiction that are quietly eroding your life.
I am a psychotherapist specialising in Psychodrama, Trauma, and Addiction recovery. My work is dynamic and practical. I don't just sit and nod; we work together to unpack the roles you play, process the grief or trauma holding you back, and script a new way forward. I specifically support the LGBTIQA+ community.
But underneath, you are carrying the weight of unresolved trauma, anxiety, or patterns of addiction that are quietly eroding your life.
I am a psychotherapist specialising in Psychodrama, Trauma, and Addiction recovery. My work is dynamic and practical. I don't just sit and nod; we work together to unpack the roles you play, process the grief or trauma holding you back, and script a new way forward. I specifically support the LGBTIQA+ community.
0434 881 060 View 0434 881 060
Photo of Mudit Vashist, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Mudit Vashist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Southport, QLD 4215
I focus on areas such as anxiety, low mood, struggles with anger and emotion regulation, relationship challenges, substance abuse, and supporting men’s mental health.
As a Clinical Psychologist and Director of Wisemind & Body, I have created a welcoming and supportive practice dedicated to providing expert care tailored to individual needs. My holistic, mind-body, and trauma-informed approach ensures that each client receives comprehensive treatment for mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and trauma. Beyond just treatment, I am passionate about empowering clients to embrace their personal journeys, equipping them with tools to overcome challenges. Choosing Wisemind & Body means choosing a path that respects your unique experiences, gives you control, and fosters lasting change.
I focus on areas such as anxiety, low mood, struggles with anger and emotion regulation, relationship challenges, substance abuse, and supporting men’s mental health.
As a Clinical Psychologist and Director of Wisemind & Body, I have created a welcoming and supportive practice dedicated to providing expert care tailored to individual needs. My holistic, mind-body, and trauma-informed approach ensures that each client receives comprehensive treatment for mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and trauma. Beyond just treatment, I am passionate about empowering clients to embrace their personal journeys, equipping them with tools to overcome challenges. Choosing Wisemind & Body means choosing a path that respects your unique experiences, gives you control, and fosters lasting change.
(07) 2801 7785 View (07) 2801 7785
Photo of Deborah Anne Campbell - Back on Track Counselling & Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
Back on Track Counselling & Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
2 Endorsed
Tewantin, QLD 4565
In over 30 years practice experience & ongoing professional development; I have had the privilege of working with children, young people and adults whose engagement, potential and enjoyment in education, employment, social recreational & family contexts has been compromised through challenging acute (short) or chronic (long term) experiences – affecting their mental health and overall wellbeing. Through an integrative therapeutic model we have many positive, wonderful, inspiring and occasionally surprising outcomes; with felt and observable progress - often from our very first session.
In over 30 years practice experience & ongoing professional development; I have had the privilege of working with children, young people and adults whose engagement, potential and enjoyment in education, employment, social recreational & family contexts has been compromised through challenging acute (short) or chronic (long term) experiences – affecting their mental health and overall wellbeing. Through an integrative therapeutic model we have many positive, wonderful, inspiring and occasionally surprising outcomes; with felt and observable progress - often from our very first session.
(07) 5224 2037 View (07) 5224 2037
Photo of Matt Vance, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Org. Psych.
Matt Vance
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Org. Psych.
Flaxton, QLD 4560
Specialize in Gambling Addiction and Alcohol Addiction.
After hours and weekends appointments available. Matt specialises in Anxiety, Alcohol, and Gambling addictions, Phobias release through Hypnosis and NLP. Chronic Pain release techniques. Matt also works part time at a long term addiction retreat.
Specialize in Gambling Addiction and Alcohol Addiction.
After hours and weekends appointments available. Matt specialises in Anxiety, Alcohol, and Gambling addictions, Phobias release through Hypnosis and NLP. Chronic Pain release techniques. Matt also works part time at a long term addiction retreat.
(07) 5451 4089 View (07) 5451 4089
Photo of Rachel Hopkins, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Rachel Hopkins
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Robina, QLD 4226
At Metanoia Psychology, I provide therapy for adults seeking meaningful change, whether you’re navigating trauma, addiction, anxiety, or the impact of early life experiences.
With over a decade of experience across public health, rehabilitation, and community settings, I am experienced in supporting people with co-occurring mental health and substance use challenges, complex trauma, and emotional dysregulation. Drawing primarily on EMDR, Schema Therapy, DBT, and CBT, I tailor therapy to your needs and personal goals.
At Metanoia Psychology, I provide therapy for adults seeking meaningful change, whether you’re navigating trauma, addiction, anxiety, or the impact of early life experiences.
With over a decade of experience across public health, rehabilitation, and community settings, I am experienced in supporting people with co-occurring mental health and substance use challenges, complex trauma, and emotional dysregulation. Drawing primarily on EMDR, Schema Therapy, DBT, and CBT, I tailor therapy to your needs and personal goals.
(07) 5240 9372 View (07) 5240 9372
Photo of Shannon Thomas Barton - YourSpace Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
YourSpace Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
2 Endorsed
Online Only
We are Queensland based registered telehealth psychologists with 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 people experiencing multiple and complex needs. We have worked in a variety of settings in Australia and the United Kingdom including custodial centres, not for profit mental health care services, the Department of Justice and Attorney General, Corrective Services and with voluntary early intervention programs through a number of courts.
We are Queensland based registered telehealth psychologists with 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 people experiencing multiple and complex needs. We have worked in a variety of settings in Australia and the United Kingdom including custodial centres, not for profit mental health care services, the Department of Justice and Attorney General, Corrective Services and with voluntary early intervention programs through a number of courts.
(07) 3113 9923 View (07) 3113 9923
Photo of Dadirai Gara - PsychCare Psychology & Mental Health, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
PsychCare Psychology & Mental Health
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
PsychCare Psychology & Mental Health is an Ipswich based multidisciplinary mental health and well-being clinic. The PsychCare Psychology & Mental Health clinicians highly consider the association between mental health (well-being) and mental illness and work collaboratively with their clients to reduces symptoms of mental illness and increase their clients’ emotional, psychological and social well-being. Our clinicians use evidence-based treatment approaches and are committed to tracking progress during therapy and utilise a range of outcome measures to monitor changes in our clients’ symptomatology over time.
PsychCare Psychology & Mental Health is an Ipswich based multidisciplinary mental health and well-being clinic. The PsychCare Psychology & Mental Health clinicians highly consider the association between mental health (well-being) and mental illness and work collaboratively with their clients to reduces symptoms of mental illness and increase their clients’ emotional, psychological and social well-being. Our clinicians use evidence-based treatment approaches and are committed to tracking progress during therapy and utilise a range of outcome measures to monitor changes in our clients’ symptomatology over time.
(07) 2801 5072 View (07) 2801 5072
Photo of Lucas Plunkett, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Lucas Plunkett
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
I provide a warm, attuned space where you can bring whatever you’re going through, whether it’s; anxiety, depression, addictions/compulsions, relationship issues, sexuality, identity or that you're simply feeling stuck in life.
My approach is person-centred, psychodynamic and process-oriented. My work is about helping you develop a deeper understanding of yourself—your patterns, emotions, and the unconscious dynamics shaping your life. It's about creating real change and helping you on your evolutionary path.
I provide a warm, attuned space where you can bring whatever you’re going through, whether it’s; anxiety, depression, addictions/compulsions, relationship issues, sexuality, identity or that you're simply feeling stuck in life.
My approach is person-centred, psychodynamic and process-oriented. My work is about helping you develop a deeper understanding of yourself—your patterns, emotions, and the unconscious dynamics shaping your life. It's about creating real change and helping you on your evolutionary path.
0404 991 746 View 0404 991 746
Photo of Luke Mahon, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Luke Mahon
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
I’m a clinically registered psychotherapist and counsellor with nearly a decade of experience supporting individuals, couples, and families through trauma, addiction, and mental health challenges.
I use a holistic approach to therapy. Drawing on my training in Somatic Psychotherapy and Gestalt Therapy, coupled with mindfulness practices, can help manage anxiety, depression, stress and relational issues. Extensive experience and training in addictions and childhood and adult trauma further supports my clinical work with couples and individuals.
I’m a clinically registered psychotherapist and counsellor with nearly a decade of experience supporting individuals, couples, and families through trauma, addiction, and mental health challenges.
I use a holistic approach to therapy. Drawing on my training in Somatic Psychotherapy and Gestalt Therapy, coupled with mindfulness practices, can help manage anxiety, depression, stress and relational issues. Extensive experience and training in addictions and childhood and adult trauma further supports my clinical work with couples and individuals.
(02) 8074 5828 View (02) 8074 5828
Photo of Cynthia Dunn, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Cynthia Dunn
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
For those who may be experiencing neurodiversty, depression, anxiety, addictions, sexual abuse, adjustment or dissociative disorders, PTSD or anger issues and want change, Artemis can help.
I utilize EMDR which is evidence based, fast, & efficacious. F2F for Brisbane clients, Online EMDR for Remote/Regional clients, Court Reports; Psychological Screening & Testing for: ASD, ADHD; Burn Out; Addictions, Eating, Gambling & Trauma. Coaching for professionals. No Bulk Bill but reduced fees for Telehealth with MHTP on Thursday only - Wait-listed.
For those who may be experiencing neurodiversty, depression, anxiety, addictions, sexual abuse, adjustment or dissociative disorders, PTSD or anger issues and want change, Artemis can help.
I utilize EMDR which is evidence based, fast, & efficacious. F2F for Brisbane clients, Online EMDR for Remote/Regional clients, Court Reports; Psychological Screening & Testing for: ASD, ADHD; Burn Out; Addictions, Eating, Gambling & Trauma. Coaching for professionals. No Bulk Bill but reduced fees for Telehealth with MHTP on Thursday only - Wait-listed.
(07) 2100 4051 View (07) 2100 4051
Photo of Lorretta Anza - Dharma Psychology, Psychotherapist, AMHSW
Dharma Psychology
Psychotherapist, AMHSW
Serves Area
Couples counselling, Addictions, PTSD , anxiety depression and eating disorders/issues
Lorretta offers evidence based therapy grounded in traditional Buddhist wisdom, insights, and perspectives. Medicare Provider . University quals. No faith req. Individuals & Couples, Women's mental health, EMDR, Workcover, NDIS, Eating issues, 30 yrs exp. Ensuring ethical and professional standards memberships APS (professional affiliate) AASW & AABCAP. Accredited Buddhist Psychotherapist and Certified Mindfulness & Compassion teacher “Trauma is not what happens to us, but what we hold inside in the absence of an empathetic witness" P. Levine.
Couples counselling, Addictions, PTSD , anxiety depression and eating disorders/issues
Lorretta offers evidence based therapy grounded in traditional Buddhist wisdom, insights, and perspectives. Medicare Provider . University quals. No faith req. Individuals & Couples, Women's mental health, EMDR, Workcover, NDIS, Eating issues, 30 yrs exp. Ensuring ethical and professional standards memberships APS (professional affiliate) AASW & AABCAP. Accredited Buddhist Psychotherapist and Certified Mindfulness & Compassion teacher “Trauma is not what happens to us, but what we hold inside in the absence of an empathetic witness" P. Levine.
(02) 5602 4119 View (02) 5602 4119
Photo of Julia Leprotti - Breath of Life Counselling-Julia Leprotti, Counsellor, PACFA
Breath of Life Counselling-Julia Leprotti
Counsellor, PACFA
Online Only
I am a counsellor with 23 years’ experience in private practice, a qualified Clinical Supervisor, and a registered WorkCover provider for Queensland. I offer a compassionate, supportive, and nurturing space where you can safely explore life’s challenges—whether in your personal life, work, family, or relationships. Together, we use evidence-based approaches tailored to your needs to build resilience, ease stress, nurture wellbeing, and create meaningful, lasting change, guiding you with understanding, care, and encouragement every step of the way.
I am a counsellor with 23 years’ experience in private practice, a qualified Clinical Supervisor, and a registered WorkCover provider for Queensland. I offer a compassionate, supportive, and nurturing space where you can safely explore life’s challenges—whether in your personal life, work, family, or relationships. Together, we use evidence-based approaches tailored to your needs to build resilience, ease stress, nurture wellbeing, and create meaningful, lasting change, guiding you with understanding, care, and encouragement every step of the way.
(07) 5651 3075 View (07) 5651 3075
Photo of Michelle Kao Nguyen - Complete Wellness Counselling (Michelle), Counsellor, ACA-L1
Meaningful employment is often a key pillar of mental health stability and self-worth. I specialise in supporting individuals who are navigating their employment goals, but are facing complex mental health, disability, or personal barriers. I offer a unique therapeutic approach that bridges the gap between mental health support and practical vocational success. My background involves not just counselling, but extensive experience in assessing work capacity, navigating government contracts, and advocating for clients with complex needs.
Meaningful employment is often a key pillar of mental health stability and self-worth. I specialise in supporting individuals who are navigating their employment goals, but are facing complex mental health, disability, or personal barriers. I offer a unique therapeutic approach that bridges the gap between mental health support and practical vocational success. My background involves not just counselling, but extensive experience in assessing work capacity, navigating government contracts, and advocating for clients with complex needs.
(07) 2801 5699 View (07) 2801 5699
Photo of Angela Diaz, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Angela Diaz
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Bundall, QLD 4217
As an experienced Snr psychologist and Director at All Access Psychology, I conduct assessment and treatment of adolescents, adults, and couples with NDIS, Workcover QLD, DVA, Medicare and Private Health Ins facing a variety of concerns including PTSD and complex trauma, relationship issues, personality disorders, and alcohol use and addiction issues.
My approach is compassionate, evidence-based, and tailored to each client’s unique needs, providing support through both individual and couples counseling.
As an experienced Snr psychologist and Director at All Access Psychology, I conduct assessment and treatment of adolescents, adults, and couples with NDIS, Workcover QLD, DVA, Medicare and Private Health Ins facing a variety of concerns including PTSD and complex trauma, relationship issues, personality disorders, and alcohol use and addiction issues.
My approach is compassionate, evidence-based, and tailored to each client’s unique needs, providing support through both individual and couples counseling.
(07) 2801 5538 View (07) 2801 5538
Photo of Susan Jennifer Loane - Australian Telehealth Counselling c/- Susan Loane , Psychotherapist, AMHSW
Relationship, Individual counselling, Addictions, Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, DV , Self Esteem.
Susan is a kind and intuitive psychotherapist and counsellor with a non judgemental attitude. Susan values confidentiality and shows respect towards her clients. Susan states " I am grateful for the number of return clients over the years, who have remarked that they enjoyed and benefited from their time with me. Susan offers Telehealth and In House Appointments. "In this field experience does make a big difference to the time and quality of counselling a person receives from their counsellor. " See Susan Loane's reviews on her website. Information provided in Susan's Profile/ P.T.
Relationship, Individual counselling, Addictions, Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, DV , Self Esteem.
Susan is a kind and intuitive psychotherapist and counsellor with a non judgemental attitude. Susan values confidentiality and shows respect towards her clients. Susan states " I am grateful for the number of return clients over the years, who have remarked that they enjoyed and benefited from their time with me. Susan offers Telehealth and In House Appointments. "In this field experience does make a big difference to the time and quality of counselling a person receives from their counsellor. " See Susan Loane's reviews on her website. Information provided in Susan's Profile/ P.T.
(08) 9939 0307 View (08) 9939 0307
Photo of Sarah Drobczyk, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Sarah Drobczyk
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Worongary, QLD 4213
Hello, I work with clients who are navigating trauma, abuse, PTSD, relationship issues, sexual assault, stress and anxiety, depression, chronic illness, injury, grief and loss, workplace issues and life changes. I’m particularly passionate about providing holistic supports. I honour the uniqueness of every person’s own story. I have a warm, gentle and authentic approach. Everyone deserves to feel heard and understood. Nurturing self compassion is often helpful. Clients I work with often highly value empathy, choice, compassion, empowerment - and feeling safe in the counselling space to work together collaboratively.
Hello, I work with clients who are navigating trauma, abuse, PTSD, relationship issues, sexual assault, stress and anxiety, depression, chronic illness, injury, grief and loss, workplace issues and life changes. I’m particularly passionate about providing holistic supports. I honour the uniqueness of every person’s own story. I have a warm, gentle and authentic approach. Everyone deserves to feel heard and understood. Nurturing self compassion is often helpful. Clients I work with often highly value empathy, choice, compassion, empowerment - and feeling safe in the counselling space to work together collaboratively.
(08) 7008 7023 View (08) 7008 7023

See more therapy options for South East Queensland

Addiction Therapists

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.