Therapists 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Jo-Anne C Guenette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5W
Have you been struggling with adapting to recent changes? Has there been an increase in your substance consumption over the last few months? While alcohol consumption is a socially acceptable solution, it can lead to much bigger issues.
Accepting New Patients - Navigating life's unexpected challenges and stress can lead to feelings of overwhelm, being lost, and feeling alone. Often when people experience this discomfort they use coping strategies that can lead to negative outcomes, such as low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and using substances. If you are needing help to get back to yourself and learn new healthy coping strategies, wanting to explore addictions treatment or have untreated trauma, we will work together to develop a treatment plan that suits your needs and helps to achieve your goals.
Have you been struggling with adapting to recent changes? Has there been an increase in your substance consumption over the last few months? While alcohol consumption is a socially acceptable solution, it can lead to much bigger issues.
Accepting New Patients - Navigating life's unexpected challenges and stress can lead to feelings of overwhelm, being lost, and feeling alone. Often when people experience this discomfort they use coping strategies that can lead to negative outcomes, such as low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and using substances. If you are needing help to get back to yourself and learn new healthy coping strategies, wanting to explore addictions treatment or have untreated trauma, we will work together to develop a treatment plan that suits your needs and helps to achieve your goals.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
15 Second Videos
Zac Berg
Keisha Virago Integrative Counselling
Shirvington M. A. Hannays
Jennifer Roesler
Alcia J. Reynolds-Mains
Dig Counselling
Erin Fischer
Newlife Psychology - Mental Health & Addiction
Bethany Miller
Hanna Brechka
Manju Ann Antony
Paula Gurnett
Leonard McEwen
Petrina Calder
Summit Counselling Services
Low Cost Redbird Therapy Centre
Therapeutic Inter. Psyc. Service Inc. (TIPS)
Alisha MacIsaac
Deena Seaward - Stillwater Counselling
Brian Welling
ReDiscover Psychological Services
Meredith Shaw
Shedean Jones
Key Psychological
Stephen Lee Roberts
Dawn Doucet Banting
Logan McColl
Chris Lefebvre
Mateo Huezo
Chantal Rose
Alice Wilmes
Joan Neehall
Grant Wardlow
Karen Williams
The Grief and Trauma Healing Centre Inc.
Kyle Poon
Eric Luther Krepstekies
Sasha Campbell
Kelsey Lummer
Kristeen Britton
Gerard MacLellan - Pathway Psychology
Matthew Shandro
Vanessa Fingland
Bradley Wall
Savneet Singh
Cornerstone Counselling
Kerri Severin
Toby John
Mahmoud Shabani-Ghazvini
Daisy Grossi - Clear Presence Psychology
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.
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".
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.
Eva Haug
Counsellor, MACP, CCC, OEI
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5Y (Online Only)
I am skilled working with anger management, trauma, communication issues, stress management, grief issues, substance abuse, and assisting people to cope with anxiety and depression.
Welcome to my page! Reaching out for help takes courage, and I honour the strength you are demonstrating by searching for someone to talk to. I use techniques from several therapies (REBT, CBT, MI and Gestalt) and my first goal is to connect with my clients. Unconditional positive regard and reflective listening are supportive ways which I use to build rapport while learning about the areas in which you are seeking support. We can explore various coping strategies to see what benefits you the most. I am certified in Observed and Experiential Integration, which is specifically used to relieve past traumas.
I am skilled working with anger management, trauma, communication issues, stress management, grief issues, substance abuse, and assisting people to cope with anxiety and depression.
Welcome to my page! Reaching out for help takes courage, and I honour the strength you are demonstrating by searching for someone to talk to. I use techniques from several therapies (REBT, CBT, MI and Gestalt) and my first goal is to connect with my clients. Unconditional positive regard and reflective listening are supportive ways which I use to build rapport while learning about the areas in which you are seeking support. We can explore various coping strategies to see what benefits you the most. I am certified in Observed and Experiential Integration, which is specifically used to relieve past traumas.
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.
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.
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.
Sheena Shilton - Psychotherapy For You Alberta
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5Y
My area of expertise are Addictions and Mental Health. With Addictions and Mental Health there are a variety of complex issues that can arise from these difficulties. I provide therapy to individuals, couples, families and groups. My approach is psycho-educational, using practice methods, and cognitive behavioural therapy to help change dysfunctional behaviour patterns that are interfering with daily life. As an Addictions and Mental Health Counsellor with The Royal Mental Health Care Centre for the 8 years, in the Substance Use and Concurrent Disorders Unit.
My area of expertise are Addictions and Mental Health. With Addictions and Mental Health there are a variety of complex issues that can arise from these difficulties. I provide therapy to individuals, couples, families and groups. My approach is psycho-educational, using practice methods, and cognitive behavioural therapy to help change dysfunctional behaviour patterns that are interfering with daily life. As an Addictions and Mental Health Counsellor with The Royal Mental Health Care Centre for the 8 years, in the Substance Use and Concurrent Disorders Unit.
Iasis Psychological and Consulting Services
Psychologist, PhD, MA, BN, RPsych, RN
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
My speciality is working with individuals who may be struggling with: trauma, addiction, grief, depression and anxiety, and stress.
Deciding to attend therapy often happens at very difficult times in life and it can be challenging to meet with a stranger to discuss personal issues. I work hard to create a space where a client can feel comfortable enough to engage in the therapeutic process and feel like they are actually getting something out of therapy, more than what they could get from having a chat with a good friend. I am able to offer a client a sense of partnership; that we are continually working towards change. I know clients do better when the therapist is present and engaged and so I work to give you a sense of who I am in our interactions.
My speciality is working with individuals who may be struggling with: trauma, addiction, grief, depression and anxiety, and stress.
Deciding to attend therapy often happens at very difficult times in life and it can be challenging to meet with a stranger to discuss personal issues. I work hard to create a space where a client can feel comfortable enough to engage in the therapeutic process and feel like they are actually getting something out of therapy, more than what they could get from having a chat with a good friend. I am able to offer a client a sense of partnership; that we are continually working towards change. I know clients do better when the therapist is present and engaged and so I work to give you a sense of who I am in our interactions.
See more therapy options for Edmonton
Nearby Addiction Counsellors Searches for Edmonton
- Beaumont
- Devon
- Fort Saskatchewan
- Leduc
- Morinville
- Sherwood Park
- Spruce Grove
- St Albert
- Stony Plain
- Wetaskiwin
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.