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 Jo-Anne C Guenette, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonton, AB
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.
(587) 604-6314 View (587) 604-6314
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 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 Daisy Lee, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Daisy Lee
Psychologist, MACP
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5M
I am an Edmonton based Registered Psychologist with over 10 years of experience in the field of addiction and mental health. I specialize in working with adults and teenagers (16+), and have had the privilege of walking alongside Client's in diverse settings with a wide range of psychological issues/concerns including addiction (substance abuse, gambling...), life transition, life skills, coping skills, existential/spiritual crises, personality disorders, emotional regulation, trauma, anxiety, and depression.
I am an Edmonton based Registered Psychologist with over 10 years of experience in the field of addiction and mental health. I specialize in working with adults and teenagers (16+), and have had the privilege of walking alongside Client's in diverse settings with a wide range of psychological issues/concerns including addiction (substance abuse, gambling...), life transition, life skills, coping skills, existential/spiritual crises, personality disorders, emotional regulation, trauma, anxiety, and depression.
(587) 410-3484 View (587) 410-3484
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
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 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 Iasis Psychological and Consulting Services, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
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.
(587) 317-6310 View (587) 317-6310
Photo of Grant M. Waldman - Healing Works Counselling, Counsellor in Edmonton, AB
Grant M. Waldman - Healing Works Counselling
Counsellor, PhD, MCP, CCC
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5A  (Online Only)
Have anxiety, depression, addiction, isolation, anger management issues, self-harm, or suicide ideation left you feeling concerned about the quality of your life? Perhaps you’ve struggled to resolve these issues on your own, to no avail? Are you ready to take 100% responsibility for your life and committed to making the necessary changes? Due to my own inter-generational trauma, I have a first-hand understanding of where you are in your life’s journey. I’d like you to know that the act of reaching out for help is a deeply courageous act, especially for most men, as most of us are conditioned to self-isolate and suffer in silence.
Have anxiety, depression, addiction, isolation, anger management issues, self-harm, or suicide ideation left you feeling concerned about the quality of your life? Perhaps you’ve struggled to resolve these issues on your own, to no avail? Are you ready to take 100% responsibility for your life and committed to making the necessary changes? Due to my own inter-generational trauma, I have a first-hand understanding of where you are in your life’s journey. I’d like you to know that the act of reaching out for help is a deeply courageous act, especially for most men, as most of us are conditioned to self-isolate and suffer in silence.
(778) 401-0761 View (778) 401-0761
Photo of Palmquist Psychology Services, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Palmquist Psychology Services
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6C
Waitlist for new clients
I have a strong interest in working with adolescents and adults who are struggling with substance use issues. Working from a client-centered, harm reduction approach, I am committed to assisting you in achieving a better quality of life. I am also passionate about helping others deal with grief and loss, relationship issues, depression and anxiety, and I believe all individuals have the capacity and strength to change and achieve their goals.
I have a strong interest in working with adolescents and adults who are struggling with substance use issues. Working from a client-centered, harm reduction approach, I am committed to assisting you in achieving a better quality of life. I am also passionate about helping others deal with grief and loss, relationship issues, depression and anxiety, and I believe all individuals have the capacity and strength to change and achieve their goals.
(855) 829-5889 View (855) 829-5889
Photo of Sarah Stone Msw Rsw - Accepting New Clients, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonton, AB
Sarah Stone Msw Rsw - Accepting New Clients
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, BA
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5K
A happy life is not experienced when everything is perfect, but when everything is in balance. I am committed to supporting you throughout your difficult experiences, whether it is a situational stress, or one that has been a long term concern. The goal is to assist you in moving closer towards becoming the best version of yourself! Many clients access services for support in managing anxiety and depression symptoms, problematic substance use, medical model cannabis use therapy, harm reduction, relationship concerns, and / or in understanding how their body responds to stressful, or even traumatic, experiences.
A happy life is not experienced when everything is perfect, but when everything is in balance. I am committed to supporting you throughout your difficult experiences, whether it is a situational stress, or one that has been a long term concern. The goal is to assist you in moving closer towards becoming the best version of yourself! Many clients access services for support in managing anxiety and depression symptoms, problematic substance use, medical model cannabis use therapy, harm reduction, relationship concerns, and / or in understanding how their body responds to stressful, or even traumatic, experiences.
(587) 327-1495 View (587) 327-1495
Photo of Samuel Arthur Platts, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Samuel Arthur Platts
Psychologist, MA, RPsych, CSAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5K
Waitlist for new clients
I am a certified sex addiction therapist.
Individual clients come to see me when there is recognition of loss of control of their moods and behaviors. Difficulty with boundaries, honesty and building secure attachments create a lonely and isolated life. Depression and anxiety can be so overwhelming and we often don't want to feel like a burden to friends or family so we keep it to ourselves. I help my clients find themselves and find hope. I work with couples who are experiencing breakdowns in communication, loss of trust due to infidelity or other secrets and help them navigate the way through the repair process.
I am a certified sex addiction therapist.
Individual clients come to see me when there is recognition of loss of control of their moods and behaviors. Difficulty with boundaries, honesty and building secure attachments create a lonely and isolated life. Depression and anxiety can be so overwhelming and we often don't want to feel like a burden to friends or family so we keep it to ourselves. I help my clients find themselves and find hope. I work with couples who are experiencing breakdowns in communication, loss of trust due to infidelity or other secrets and help them navigate the way through the repair process.
(587) 410-5932 View (587) 410-5932
Photo of Paula Gurnett, Counsellor in Edmonton, AB
Paula Gurnett
Counsellor, MA , CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6B
I offer support to couples dealing with trauma, substance use, and the aftermath of affairs.
*Currently accepting new clients for Intensive Therapy; waitlist for all other services.* Sometimes RELATIONSHIP issues can feel overwhelming and as though things are cycling with no end in sight. The stress and uncertainty can be emotionally paralyzing or explosive. If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, confused, stressed, or strained…I am here to support you as you gain clarity, peace, healing, and confidence. I hold a relational approach to recovery and healing and respect self-determination, as individuals and couples find clarity in the direction that is best for them.
I offer support to couples dealing with trauma, substance use, and the aftermath of affairs.
*Currently accepting new clients for Intensive Therapy; waitlist for all other services.* Sometimes RELATIONSHIP issues can feel overwhelming and as though things are cycling with no end in sight. The stress and uncertainty can be emotionally paralyzing or explosive. If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, confused, stressed, or strained…I am here to support you as you gain clarity, peace, healing, and confidence. I hold a relational approach to recovery and healing and respect self-determination, as individuals and couples find clarity in the direction that is best for them.
(587) 840-5161 View (587) 840-5161
Photo of Dean (David) Buhr, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Dean (David) Buhr
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5L
Feeling distant from your spouse? Fighting with your teen? Struggling with anger, anxiety, depression, or addiction? Experienced trauma? I work with a variety of clients, but particularly enjoy problems in which clients that have felt misunderstood or mistreated. This includes working with adolescents, parent-teen conflict, relationship difficulties in both individuals and couples, addictions, anger or anxiety management, trauma, and Borderline Personality Disorder. In many of the clients I see, fear and confusion are often barriers to a satisfying life. Healing often comes through gaining confidence in areas one can control.
Feeling distant from your spouse? Fighting with your teen? Struggling with anger, anxiety, depression, or addiction? Experienced trauma? I work with a variety of clients, but particularly enjoy problems in which clients that have felt misunderstood or mistreated. This includes working with adolescents, parent-teen conflict, relationship difficulties in both individuals and couples, addictions, anger or anxiety management, trauma, and Borderline Personality Disorder. In many of the clients I see, fear and confusion are often barriers to a satisfying life. Healing often comes through gaining confidence in areas one can control.
(587) 841-5885 View (587) 841-5885
Photo of Leonard McEwen, Registered Social Worker in Edmonton, AB
Leonard McEwen
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, FCFCH-A
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T5L
If you've experienced a traumatic event and suspect you have PTSD, if you're dealing with ADHD, have sustained a brain injury or concussion, or are confronting challenges related to addiction, depression, and anxiety, or if you are looking to improve in business, arts, or athletics, I have the experience and techniques to help you.
If you've experienced a traumatic event and suspect you have PTSD, if you're dealing with ADHD, have sustained a brain injury or concussion, or are confronting challenges related to addiction, depression, and anxiety, or if you are looking to improve in business, arts, or athletics, I have the experience and techniques to help you.
(825) 254-9764 View (825) 254-9764
Photo of JDC Psychological Services, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
JDC Psychological Services
Psychologist, BA, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5S
Hi! You've taken the first step in searching for help - let me help you take the next one. I am a registered psychologist with a passion for helping people recover from their past, learn new ways of navigating their present, and discover their life's purpose. I work with a variety of life concerns - including trauma, abuse, addiction, stress/anxiety, depression, emotions management and issues of faith. I believe that every person has the capacity for love, joy and peace in their lives. And that we can all use a little help along the way.
Hi! You've taken the first step in searching for help - let me help you take the next one. I am a registered psychologist with a passion for helping people recover from their past, learn new ways of navigating their present, and discover their life's purpose. I work with a variety of life concerns - including trauma, abuse, addiction, stress/anxiety, depression, emotions management and issues of faith. I believe that every person has the capacity for love, joy and peace in their lives. And that we can all use a little help along the way.
(587) 316-8175 View (587) 316-8175
Photo of Andrea Matheson, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Andrea Matheson
Psychologist, MEd, BA
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
Andrea Offers services in both Alberta and Quebec. For the past 18 years, Andrea has been working with individuals dealing with an array of personal issues. Some examples include: marriage discord, trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, PTSD, substance abuse disorders (SUD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorders (OCD), personality disorders and eating disorders. Andrea Matheson provides telehealth services in both Alberta and Quebec, Canada.
Andrea Offers services in both Alberta and Quebec. For the past 18 years, Andrea has been working with individuals dealing with an array of personal issues. Some examples include: marriage discord, trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, PTSD, substance abuse disorders (SUD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorders (OCD), personality disorders and eating disorders. Andrea Matheson provides telehealth services in both Alberta and Quebec, Canada.
(587) 400-1655 View (587) 400-1655
Photo of Sadique Ahmed Pathan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Edmonton, AB
Sadique Ahmed Pathan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6V
Many people who struggle with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and stress, feel embarrassed or stigmatized. Others who struggle with domestic violence, relationship issues, faith based struggles, addiction issues, suicidal ideations, and anger management issues feel alone and unsure of who they can speak to. The foundation of my counselling practice is being compassionate and non-judgmental. I provide a person-centred practice which is about the client defining their own goals. I assure my clients they are in a safe place, confidentiality upheld, validated, and their life story and experiences honoured.
Many people who struggle with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and stress, feel embarrassed or stigmatized. Others who struggle with domestic violence, relationship issues, faith based struggles, addiction issues, suicidal ideations, and anger management issues feel alone and unsure of who they can speak to. The foundation of my counselling practice is being compassionate and non-judgmental. I provide a person-centred practice which is about the client defining their own goals. I assure my clients they are in a safe place, confidentiality upheld, validated, and their life story and experiences honoured.
(825) 250-3352 View (825) 250-3352
Photo of Summit Counselling Services, Psychologist in Edmonton, AB
Summit Counselling Services
Psychologist, BA, MC, CAATP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5N
Some of our areas of practice are trauma, performance/sports psych, depression, anxiety, stress, addiction, grief/loss, relationship conflict, eco-grief, infertility, prenatal and postpartum concerns, mood disorders, personality disorders, couples and family counselling and life transitions.
Whatever your are hoping to work on - we are here to help. Our team is just as unique as you are. Each therapist at Summit works in their own unique way, each specializing in different areas. Our aim is to provide the most effective individualized service for each client we see. We all have skills and resources to work through life's challenges, our goal is to help you find those within yourself. Together we will develop a plan to strategically address your areas of concern and create lasting positive change. Our role is to provide a safe, nonjudgemental space where you can explore ways to create positive life change.
Some of our areas of practice are trauma, performance/sports psych, depression, anxiety, stress, addiction, grief/loss, relationship conflict, eco-grief, infertility, prenatal and postpartum concerns, mood disorders, personality disorders, couples and family counselling and life transitions.
Whatever your are hoping to work on - we are here to help. Our team is just as unique as you are. Each therapist at Summit works in their own unique way, each specializing in different areas. Our aim is to provide the most effective individualized service for each client we see. We all have skills and resources to work through life's challenges, our goal is to help you find those within yourself. Together we will develop a plan to strategically address your areas of concern and create lasting positive change. Our role is to provide a safe, nonjudgemental space where you can explore ways to create positive life change.
(587) 318-6092 View (587) 318-6092

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.