Addiction Therapists in Edmonton, AB

Photo of Kairos Counseling Services, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Kairos Counseling Services
Psychologist, MSc, MTS, MFT, CCAC
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6B
My specialization has been in the areas of substance abuse, domestic violence and relationship injuries.
The impact of adverse childhood experiences often colours our choices, responses and reactions to the challenges of everyday life. These childhood experiences often manifest themselves in how we experience ourselves, as well as in our relationships with our spouses, partners, family, friends and co-workers. I have over a decade of experience working with individuals, couples and families struggling with trauma, relationship challenges, substance abuse, and domestic violence.
My specialization has been in the areas of substance abuse, domestic violence and relationship injuries.
The impact of adverse childhood experiences often colours our choices, responses and reactions to the challenges of everyday life. These childhood experiences often manifest themselves in how we experience ourselves, as well as in our relationships with our spouses, partners, family, friends and co-workers. I have over a decade of experience working with individuals, couples and families struggling with trauma, relationship challenges, substance abuse, and domestic violence.
(866) 893-6985 View (866) 893-6985
Photo of Stephanie Yang, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Stephanie Yang
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
Do you struggle with trauma, connecting to others, violence, or substance abuse/addiction? Is the hurt from old wounds through relationships across your lifespan still causing you pain? I believe that like hurt, healing happens through relationships and we will work together to meet your goals and help you move forward on a path of healing. First and foremost, I believe you have inherent value simply by being human and will take a humanistic and strengths-based approach to your challenges. We will work together to process your experiences and create realistic strategies for moving forward.
Do you struggle with trauma, connecting to others, violence, or substance abuse/addiction? Is the hurt from old wounds through relationships across your lifespan still causing you pain? I believe that like hurt, healing happens through relationships and we will work together to meet your goals and help you move forward on a path of healing. First and foremost, I believe you have inherent value simply by being human and will take a humanistic and strengths-based approach to your challenges. We will work together to process your experiences and create realistic strategies for moving forward.
(825) 250-3855 View (825) 250-3855
Photo of Garrett Gooch, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Garrett Gooch
Psychologist, BA, MA
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
I am a compassionate and growth-oriented counsellor dedicated to helping others on their personal life journeys. Having studied and worked in the mental health field for the majority of my adult life, I have gained a broad range of experience counselling adults of all walks of life. I am passionate about helping my clients deal with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD and trauma, work-related issues, gender identity, sexual concerns, stress, body image, sleep issues, grief and loss, as well as life transitions.
I am a compassionate and growth-oriented counsellor dedicated to helping others on their personal life journeys. Having studied and worked in the mental health field for the majority of my adult life, I have gained a broad range of experience counselling adults of all walks of life. I am passionate about helping my clients deal with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD and trauma, work-related issues, gender identity, sexual concerns, stress, body image, sleep issues, grief and loss, as well as life transitions.
(587) 602-2355 View (587) 602-2355
Photo of Christine Lee, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Christine Lee
Psychologist, MEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6G
My areas of interests include anxiety, depression, anger management, substance abuse/addiction, trauma, stress management and self-esteem.
I believe we all have internal strengths and resources to work through life's challenges. Sometimes we lose sight of these strengths, sometimes there are gaps in our skills set, or perhaps there are blind spots in how we view a problem situation. My role is to help clients explore, discover and understand themselves and to help clients learn new skills and strategies to address the presenting concern.
My areas of interests include anxiety, depression, anger management, substance abuse/addiction, trauma, stress management and self-esteem.
I believe we all have internal strengths and resources to work through life's challenges. Sometimes we lose sight of these strengths, sometimes there are gaps in our skills set, or perhaps there are blind spots in how we view a problem situation. My role is to help clients explore, discover and understand themselves and to help clients learn new skills and strategies to address the presenting concern.
(587) 410-6721 View (587) 410-6721
Photo of Alcia J. Reynolds-Mains, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Alcia J. Reynolds-Mains
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MA, Bsc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5Y  (Online Only)
I work mainly with challenges faced by women and children related to immigration and reintegration in another country, addiction, mental health, marginalization and relationships. My number one goal is to meet people where they are at and walk along with them on their journey towards a more rewarding and fulfilling one, where they can resolve or gain a different perspective on their situation, and is and learn new skills to help them through life. Clients strengths are highlighted and they are motivated to develop autonomy and confidence in their ability to make important decisions that affect their wellbeing.
I work mainly with challenges faced by women and children related to immigration and reintegration in another country, addiction, mental health, marginalization and relationships. My number one goal is to meet people where they are at and walk along with them on their journey towards a more rewarding and fulfilling one, where they can resolve or gain a different perspective on their situation, and is and learn new skills to help them through life. Clients strengths are highlighted and they are motivated to develop autonomy and confidence in their ability to make important decisions that affect their wellbeing.
(587) 815-4019 View (587) 815-4019
Photo of Karen Gaudin, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Karen Gaudin
Psychologist, R Psych, MC, HBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6X
From my personal battles and experiences with ADHD, anxiety, trauma, addiction and being bi-sexual I can intimately understand your life struggles.
Life doesn't unfold neatly; neither does healing. The complexities that life throws at you can feel very overwhelming. Yet these experiences, though challenging, are also avenues for positive change. Together we will not only explore these aspects but also unravel your strength and resilience that often remain hidden beneath the surface. Through your journey I aim to not only help you find relief from pain; but also to empower you to transform these challenges into stepping stones toward a brighter future, and a more Authentic YOU! I promise to provide a safe space where you feel accepted, heard, respected, supported and understood.
From my personal battles and experiences with ADHD, anxiety, trauma, addiction and being bi-sexual I can intimately understand your life struggles.
Life doesn't unfold neatly; neither does healing. The complexities that life throws at you can feel very overwhelming. Yet these experiences, though challenging, are also avenues for positive change. Together we will not only explore these aspects but also unravel your strength and resilience that often remain hidden beneath the surface. Through your journey I aim to not only help you find relief from pain; but also to empower you to transform these challenges into stepping stones toward a brighter future, and a more Authentic YOU! I promise to provide a safe space where you feel accepted, heard, respected, supported and understood.
(587) 821-2289 View (587) 821-2289
Photo of Shirvington M. A. Hannays, Counsellor in Edmonton, AB
Shirvington M. A. Hannays
Counsellor, CCS-AC, CCTACP, CCAC
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5J
I work with clients challenged with repeat relapsing with Addictions, Substance Use Disorders, and other Mental Health related disorders or Maladaptive behaviours who have never done treatment before or have successfully done treatment several times but gave up after several repeated relapses and are being referred for treatment due to mild or moderate-to-severe Substance Use Disorder. I use personalized teletherapy treatments using CBT and REBT therapies along with my signature RElapseREScue brief interventions from the masterclasses “How to become motivated and committed to Change”, and "How to REScue YourSELF from a RElapse".
I work with clients challenged with repeat relapsing with Addictions, Substance Use Disorders, and other Mental Health related disorders or Maladaptive behaviours who have never done treatment before or have successfully done treatment several times but gave up after several repeated relapses and are being referred for treatment due to mild or moderate-to-severe Substance Use Disorder. I use personalized teletherapy treatments using CBT and REBT therapies along with my signature RElapseREScue brief interventions from the masterclasses “How to become motivated and committed to Change”, and "How to REScue YourSELF from a RElapse".
(587) 417-2659 View (587) 417-2659
Photo of Michelle Finley, Counsellor in Edmonton, AB
Michelle Finley
Counsellor, Bsc, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5M
I work with anxiety, addiction (substance use) and chronic pain. Sometimes the little things become too much and you find you're overreacting or panicking. Maybe you can't get a situation out of your head and you're overthinking or stressed about it. Maybe you tired of numbing the pain or avoiding your problems cause it isn't helping. Sometimes our motivation is to stop passing on unhealthy patterns to our kids. Maybe you want to control your emotions so they don't control you. If you want to work on the roots of addiction and the stress and anxiety that is always brewing below the surface of chronic pain, we could be a fit.
I work with anxiety, addiction (substance use) and chronic pain. Sometimes the little things become too much and you find you're overreacting or panicking. Maybe you can't get a situation out of your head and you're overthinking or stressed about it. Maybe you tired of numbing the pain or avoiding your problems cause it isn't helping. Sometimes our motivation is to stop passing on unhealthy patterns to our kids. Maybe you want to control your emotions so they don't control you. If you want to work on the roots of addiction and the stress and anxiety that is always brewing below the surface of chronic pain, we could be a fit.
(780) 710-9567 View (780) 710-9567
Photo of Edmonton Counselling Services, Counsellor in Edmonton, AB
Edmonton Counselling Services
Counsellor, MPCC, RSW, SAP, CCAC, DCA
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6K
Do you ever feel too overwhelmed to deal with your problems, and is it affecting your health and performance in your personal or professional life? If so, you are not alone! Psychotherapy may help you to get relief from symptoms and make you hopeful and smile again. I have a Master of Social Work Degree equivalency, I am a Master Practitioner in Clinical Counselling, Substance Abuse Professionals (SAP) US DOT, Designated Capacity Assessor in Alberta, & Canadian Clinical Supervisor - Addiction Counselor. I am a member of the Canadian Addiction Counselors Certification Federation and the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association.
Do you ever feel too overwhelmed to deal with your problems, and is it affecting your health and performance in your personal or professional life? If so, you are not alone! Psychotherapy may help you to get relief from symptoms and make you hopeful and smile again. I have a Master of Social Work Degree equivalency, I am a Master Practitioner in Clinical Counselling, Substance Abuse Professionals (SAP) US DOT, Designated Capacity Assessor in Alberta, & Canadian Clinical Supervisor - Addiction Counselor. I am a member of the Canadian Addiction Counselors Certification Federation and the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association.
(780) 666-7351 View (780) 666-7351
Photo of Keisha Virago Integrative Counselling, Registered Professional Counsellor - Candidate in Edmonton, AB
Keisha Virago Integrative Counselling
Registered Professional Counsellor - Candidate, RPC-C
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E  (Online Only)
I have 15 years of experience dealing with addictions and understand how unresolved trauma can lead to substance abuse, unhealthy relationships and lifestyle, as well as mental health complications including anxiety, depression, and chronic stress.
I help people learn to forgive themselves for the things they had to do in order to survive. I believe that when we feel safe in our body and free from the shackles of our past, we can create our dream reality. By honouring our sensitive nature, and creating a safe space to explore, we can set our inner child free - inviting playfulness, humour, and curiosity to the healing process. We are not what has happened to us, we are who we choose to become. I'm here to help you discover who you truly are on a soul level.
I have 15 years of experience dealing with addictions and understand how unresolved trauma can lead to substance abuse, unhealthy relationships and lifestyle, as well as mental health complications including anxiety, depression, and chronic stress.
I help people learn to forgive themselves for the things they had to do in order to survive. I believe that when we feel safe in our body and free from the shackles of our past, we can create our dream reality. By honouring our sensitive nature, and creating a safe space to explore, we can set our inner child free - inviting playfulness, humour, and curiosity to the healing process. We are not what has happened to us, we are who we choose to become. I'm here to help you discover who you truly are on a soul level.
(581) 502-0783 View (581) 502-0783
Photo of Marcela Chavez-Harrison - Self Care Psychology Inc, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Marcela Chavez-Harrison - Self Care Psychology Inc
Psychologist, RPsych, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
Is it time to get some help with making a change in your life? Do you find yourself stuck in the same patterns despite trying your best to do something different? My goal is to support and help individuals to become their best selves, whether it be to increase self-esteem, work through trauma issues from your past, or address your struggles with a bad habit or addiction. I have 20+ years of experience in working in addictions and working with people in various stages of readiness. I also support family members who have a loved one struggling with an addiction with a focus on finding hope and strength in this difficult situation.
Is it time to get some help with making a change in your life? Do you find yourself stuck in the same patterns despite trying your best to do something different? My goal is to support and help individuals to become their best selves, whether it be to increase self-esteem, work through trauma issues from your past, or address your struggles with a bad habit or addiction. I have 20+ years of experience in working in addictions and working with people in various stages of readiness. I also support family members who have a loved one struggling with an addiction with a focus on finding hope and strength in this difficult situation.
(587) 805-0703 View (587) 805-0703
Photo of Billie-Jo Guidi (Stewart), Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Billie-Jo Guidi (Stewart)
Psychologist, RPsych, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6B
I value working with adult individuals from all walks of life. I have 17 plus years working in the Addiction and Mental Health field. Whether you are feeling stuck, ambivalent or confused we can explore ways together to achieve your own hopes and dreams. I provide a safe and collaborative environment that fosters exploring change and growth. My style is warm, supportive and nurturing. I strive to treat all of my clients with unconditional acceptance and compassion. I hope we as a team together will be active in pursuing your personal goals for therapy.
I value working with adult individuals from all walks of life. I have 17 plus years working in the Addiction and Mental Health field. Whether you are feeling stuck, ambivalent or confused we can explore ways together to achieve your own hopes and dreams. I provide a safe and collaborative environment that fosters exploring change and growth. My style is warm, supportive and nurturing. I strive to treat all of my clients with unconditional acceptance and compassion. I hope we as a team together will be active in pursuing your personal goals for therapy.
(587) 742-0551 x2 View (587) 742-0551 x2
Photo of Emanuelito Tomas in Edmonton, AB
Emanuelito Tomas
RN, BScN
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5H  (Online Only)
Before becoming an RN, I provided crisis intervention and specialized in addiction, suicide prevention, and supporting survivors of violence in a trauma-informed and empowerment-focused lens.
As a Registered Nurse with a passion for mental health, I bring a unique blend of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to my practice. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences while working towards positive change and personal growth.
Before becoming an RN, I provided crisis intervention and specialized in addiction, suicide prevention, and supporting survivors of violence in a trauma-informed and empowerment-focused lens.
As a Registered Nurse with a passion for mental health, I bring a unique blend of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to my practice. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences while working towards positive change and personal growth.
(825) 445-0067 View (825) 445-0067
Photo of Kiran Qureshi, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Kiran Qureshi
Psychologist, MA, R Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6X
Accepting new clients- Are you feeling overwhelmed, discouraged and disconnected? Are you feeling lost, anxious, unhappy and struggling with a lack of meaning in life? I am here to support you. I will work collaboratively with you to reduce troubling symptoms and help you regain a sense of purpose and connection. I predominately work with clients who have experienced trauma, in addition to other concerns such as PTSD, anxiety, addiction and body image issues. I have experience working with people from various ethnic backgrounds, including Indigenous peoples and immigrants struggling with complex trauma and loss of culture.
Accepting new clients- Are you feeling overwhelmed, discouraged and disconnected? Are you feeling lost, anxious, unhappy and struggling with a lack of meaning in life? I am here to support you. I will work collaboratively with you to reduce troubling symptoms and help you regain a sense of purpose and connection. I predominately work with clients who have experienced trauma, in addition to other concerns such as PTSD, anxiety, addiction and body image issues. I have experience working with people from various ethnic backgrounds, including Indigenous peoples and immigrants struggling with complex trauma and loss of culture.
(825) 809-5159 View (825) 809-5159
Photo of Angela Eddy, Registered Psychotherapist in Edmonton, AB
Angela Eddy
Registered Psychotherapist, BHSc, RP, CCAC, CSAT
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6K
I offer individual counselling to adults in areas such as alcohol, drug, gambling and sex addiction I also counsel people who struggle with anxiety, depression, managing emotions and communication. I work with people who want to quit smoking or cut back to make positive healthy change in their lives. I believe everyone can lead a healthy fulfilled life and I support people who want to make that change. I help families who have loved ones who are addicted and help support them to understand their loved ones addiction and how it impacts their lives.
I offer individual counselling to adults in areas such as alcohol, drug, gambling and sex addiction I also counsel people who struggle with anxiety, depression, managing emotions and communication. I work with people who want to quit smoking or cut back to make positive healthy change in their lives. I believe everyone can lead a healthy fulfilled life and I support people who want to make that change. I help families who have loved ones who are addicted and help support them to understand their loved ones addiction and how it impacts their lives.
(289) 273-2267 View (289) 273-2267
Photo of Jennifer Roesler, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Jennifer Roesler
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
Welcome, you have just taken the first step to healing! I have experience working with anxiety, depression, substance use, medical trauma & chronic illness, ADHD, brain injury, OCD, boundaries, career/life transitions, suicide, abuse, trauma, and PTSD. Additionally, I work with couples to help increase communication, overcome betrayal, or regulate emotions. I also work with families to increase boundaries, communication, and heal trauma. I work with Pre-teens, Teens, Adults, Elderly, Couples, and Families. I am also Indigenous and support inter-generational trauma, cultural and mental health issues for clients of all cultures.
Welcome, you have just taken the first step to healing! I have experience working with anxiety, depression, substance use, medical trauma & chronic illness, ADHD, brain injury, OCD, boundaries, career/life transitions, suicide, abuse, trauma, and PTSD. Additionally, I work with couples to help increase communication, overcome betrayal, or regulate emotions. I also work with families to increase boundaries, communication, and heal trauma. I work with Pre-teens, Teens, Adults, Elderly, Couples, and Families. I am also Indigenous and support inter-generational trauma, cultural and mental health issues for clients of all cultures.
(825) 525-2949 View (825) 525-2949
Photo of Corine Kozuchowski, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Corine Kozuchowski
Psychologist, BA, MC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6C
Trouble managing your substance use? Looking to control it better so you experience less shame? Or did you relapse and you want to get your recovery back on track? Substance use counselling is my jam! Depression, anxiety, work stress, burn-out, codependency, self-esteem, and trauma are my other areas of focus. I strive to foster holistic wellbeing while validating, inspiring, challenging, and empowering. It is also likely we will have laugh! What sets me apart? It's my commitment to experiential knowledge and embracing real-life moments. www.ckps.ca
Trouble managing your substance use? Looking to control it better so you experience less shame? Or did you relapse and you want to get your recovery back on track? Substance use counselling is my jam! Depression, anxiety, work stress, burn-out, codependency, self-esteem, and trauma are my other areas of focus. I strive to foster holistic wellbeing while validating, inspiring, challenging, and empowering. It is also likely we will have laugh! What sets me apart? It's my commitment to experiential knowledge and embracing real-life moments. www.ckps.ca
(587) 801-7002 View (587) 801-7002
Photo of Adrian James, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Adrian James
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6C
Some of my approaches will include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), couples counselling, addiction counseling, and trauma therapy.
If you are dealing with addictions or emotional challenges I look forward to working with you. One can often feel alone, feel that no one understands and fear being judged. I will support you by creating a safe space to work through the problem. Issues such as relationship conflicts, addictions, anger and stress can impede your daily functioning. My goal is to help you identify potential causes and find healthy ways to resolve issues and to guide you through those vulnerable moments.
Some of my approaches will include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), couples counselling, addiction counseling, and trauma therapy.
If you are dealing with addictions or emotional challenges I look forward to working with you. One can often feel alone, feel that no one understands and fear being judged. I will support you by creating a safe space to work through the problem. Issues such as relationship conflicts, addictions, anger and stress can impede your daily functioning. My goal is to help you identify potential causes and find healthy ways to resolve issues and to guide you through those vulnerable moments.
(587) 804-5454 View (587) 804-5454
Photo of Krista Wright, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Krista Wright
Psychologist, MEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5A
Waitlist for new clients
She works with individuals aged 10 and up struggling with trauma, anxiety, anger or behavioral concerns, body image/self esteem concerns, relationship struggles, self-harm, substance or technology addictions.
As someone who has experienced life’s unexpected curve-balls along with the distress and joy that can come along with them, Krista strives for her clients to feel unconditionally supported in therapy sessions. Her approach is being your team-mate with a healthy sprinkle of humour to help you navigate life’s difficult times. Krista has over 7 years of experience helping adolescents and adults.
She works with individuals aged 10 and up struggling with trauma, anxiety, anger or behavioral concerns, body image/self esteem concerns, relationship struggles, self-harm, substance or technology addictions.
As someone who has experienced life’s unexpected curve-balls along with the distress and joy that can come along with them, Krista strives for her clients to feel unconditionally supported in therapy sessions. Her approach is being your team-mate with a healthy sprinkle of humour to help you navigate life’s difficult times. Krista has over 7 years of experience helping adolescents and adults.
(587) 841-5932 View (587) 841-5932
Photo of Zac Berg, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Zac Berg
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6B
Life is messy. It’s filled with constant struggles - feeling unfulfilled, overwhelmed, lost, or that life is out of control. Do you feel unwanted, struggle with finding purpose, worry about the future, or avoid or distract yourself from feeling painful thoughts and emotions? Are you struggling with issues such as, traumatic events, chronic pain or illness, addiction, couples or relationship issues, grief, anxiety, or depression? I can offer a safe place where you will feel supported, understood, and cared for, as we navigate through this together. As a team, we will carve a path towards the life you want to live.
Life is messy. It’s filled with constant struggles - feeling unfulfilled, overwhelmed, lost, or that life is out of control. Do you feel unwanted, struggle with finding purpose, worry about the future, or avoid or distract yourself from feeling painful thoughts and emotions? Are you struggling with issues such as, traumatic events, chronic pain or illness, addiction, couples or relationship issues, grief, anxiety, or depression? I can offer a safe place where you will feel supported, understood, and cared for, as we navigate through this together. As a team, we will carve a path towards the life you want to live.
(587) 418-8469 View (587) 418-8469

See more therapy options for Edmonton

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.