Therapists in Parksville, BC

Photo of Vancouver Island Therapy, Counsellor in Parksville, BC
Vancouver Island Therapy
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CSAT, RSW, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P  (Online Only)
We offer individual, couples, family, child/adolescent therapy, in addition to addiction, mental health, and trauma counselling.
Vancouver Island Therapy is a full service, multi—disciplinary health clinic focused on providing multiple healing services to help you and your family. Located in Nanaimo, BC, we service many communities including; Port Alberni, Qualicum, Parksville, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Duncan to Victoria.
We offer individual, couples, family, child/adolescent therapy, in addition to addiction, mental health, and trauma counselling.
Vancouver Island Therapy is a full service, multi—disciplinary health clinic focused on providing multiple healing services to help you and your family. Located in Nanaimo, BC, we service many communities including; Port Alberni, Qualicum, Parksville, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Duncan to Victoria.
(249) 700-1308 View (249) 700-1308
Photo of Awaken Counselling, Registered Social Worker in Parksville, BC
Awaken Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
I use (IFS) Internal Family Systems as my primary therapeutic model. Our goal is to assist people to release the burdens that they carry and to foster access to their deeper Selves. I have experience working with individual's and couples with a vast array of Mental Health, Emotional, and Relational concerns. Often the people I see carry; anxiety, depression, complex trauma, PTSD, substance use, and OCD, relational stress, amongst others. My partner is an RCC and she also uses IFS and has experience treating complex trauma. Full details can be found on our website.
I use (IFS) Internal Family Systems as my primary therapeutic model. Our goal is to assist people to release the burdens that they carry and to foster access to their deeper Selves. I have experience working with individual's and couples with a vast array of Mental Health, Emotional, and Relational concerns. Often the people I see carry; anxiety, depression, complex trauma, PTSD, substance use, and OCD, relational stress, amongst others. My partner is an RCC and she also uses IFS and has experience treating complex trauma. Full details can be found on our website.
(604) 337-2545 View (604) 337-2545
Photo of Sutton Counselling and Coaching, Counsellor in Parksville, BC
Sutton Counselling and Coaching
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
I specialize in the area of trauma including acute, chronic, or complex as well as the resulting grief, anxiety, depression, and addictions that may have developed. I am passionate about helping women understand that the coping mechanisms that evolved were functional and helped them survive in times of difficulty. These may now show up as patterns that hold you back and cause you to think, feel, and behave in ways that no longer serve you. I believe everyone has the capacity to heal and the ability to learn new skills to become free of overwhelming fear, anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction.
I specialize in the area of trauma including acute, chronic, or complex as well as the resulting grief, anxiety, depression, and addictions that may have developed. I am passionate about helping women understand that the coping mechanisms that evolved were functional and helped them survive in times of difficulty. These may now show up as patterns that hold you back and cause you to think, feel, and behave in ways that no longer serve you. I believe everyone has the capacity to heal and the ability to learn new skills to become free of overwhelming fear, anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction.
(778) 608-3643 View (778) 608-3643
Photo of Vancouver Island Therapy, Counsellor in Parksville, BC
Vancouver Island Therapy
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Welcome! We all love what we do and are here to help you find health, balance and peace. Vancouver Island Therapy is a full service, multi—disciplinary health clinic focused on providing multiple healing services to help you and your family. Located in Nanaimo, BC, we service many communities including; Port Alberni, Qualicum, Parksville, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Duncan to Victoria. Diverse, professional and experienced, our practitioners bring a broad range of experience into their practice with clients. We are here to help emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually. Each of us has decades of experience, a unique approach
Welcome! We all love what we do and are here to help you find health, balance and peace. Vancouver Island Therapy is a full service, multi—disciplinary health clinic focused on providing multiple healing services to help you and your family. Located in Nanaimo, BC, we service many communities including; Port Alberni, Qualicum, Parksville, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Duncan to Victoria. Diverse, professional and experienced, our practitioners bring a broad range of experience into their practice with clients. We are here to help emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually. Each of us has decades of experience, a unique approach
(778) 200-2900 View (778) 200-2900
Photo of Earl Blacklock, Counsellor in Parksville, BC
Earl Blacklock
Counsellor, MALM, MDiv, MC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Although I am also a couples counsellor, I work primarily with those who have experienced trauma. Trauma is the experience of being emotionally and psychologically overwhelmed and overcome for weeks, months, or years by adverse childhood experiences and adult traumatic events. My focus is always on the present and a hopeful future - how can those debilitated by anxiety, shame, poor self-worth, child sexual abuse, c-PTSD and PTSD, and dissociative disorders including Dissociative Identity Disorder, become healthy enough to meet their own needs for income, housing, affirming relationships, and wellness - physical, emotional AND mental
Although I am also a couples counsellor, I work primarily with those who have experienced trauma. Trauma is the experience of being emotionally and psychologically overwhelmed and overcome for weeks, months, or years by adverse childhood experiences and adult traumatic events. My focus is always on the present and a hopeful future - how can those debilitated by anxiety, shame, poor self-worth, child sexual abuse, c-PTSD and PTSD, and dissociative disorders including Dissociative Identity Disorder, become healthy enough to meet their own needs for income, housing, affirming relationships, and wellness - physical, emotional AND mental
(778) 770-2917 View (778) 770-2917
Photo of Barb Gottfried, Counsellor in Parksville, BC
Barb Gottfried
Counsellor, MSc, RPC, MPCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with over 30 years of experience providing counselling services to individuals (all ages), couples, families and first responders. I offer respectful, collaborative, holistic, compassionate and goal focused counselling in a safe and supportive environment. I offer a broad spectrum of services ranging from brief solution focused support to intensive psychotherapeutic support, including EMDR. I believe in the value of working collaboratively with my clients, and I have a deep respect and appreciation for diversity.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with over 30 years of experience providing counselling services to individuals (all ages), couples, families and first responders. I offer respectful, collaborative, holistic, compassionate and goal focused counselling in a safe and supportive environment. I offer a broad spectrum of services ranging from brief solution focused support to intensive psychotherapeutic support, including EMDR. I believe in the value of working collaboratively with my clients, and I have a deep respect and appreciation for diversity.
(778) 655-8538 View (778) 655-8538
Photo of Ron Lafleur, Counsellor in Parksville, BC
Ron Lafleur
Counsellor, M, Ed, RCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
My view on counselling is based upon the level of trust and the quality of the connection that we are able to create together. In essence, the relationship that we develop together is key. I would wish to provide you with a safe, caring environment where you could come to feel completely heard and understood. I see my role as being more of a Guide, offering support while at the same time gently encouraging your growth by pointing out certain areas, thoughts, beliefs or behaviours that may be keeping you stuck, or that you may be unaware of.
My view on counselling is based upon the level of trust and the quality of the connection that we are able to create together. In essence, the relationship that we develop together is key. I would wish to provide you with a safe, caring environment where you could come to feel completely heard and understood. I see my role as being more of a Guide, offering support while at the same time gently encouraging your growth by pointing out certain areas, thoughts, beliefs or behaviours that may be keeping you stuck, or that you may be unaware of.
(855) 694-0493 View (855) 694-0493
Photo of John Taylor, Counselling, Counsellor in Parksville, BC
John Taylor, Counselling
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
Turn relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and stress downside-up and stop repeating the same troublesome patterns. I am an experienced counsellor who can help you turn problems into solutions, getting you the tools you need to make real changes, starting now. Doing more than just listen, I help you deal with problems and underlying causes so that you can gain relief now and for the future. Life is better with help: I can help with relationships, infidelity, trust, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, sex issues, panic, addictions, anger, trauma, grief, and more. Frowns really can turn into smiles.
Turn relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and stress downside-up and stop repeating the same troublesome patterns. I am an experienced counsellor who can help you turn problems into solutions, getting you the tools you need to make real changes, starting now. Doing more than just listen, I help you deal with problems and underlying causes so that you can gain relief now and for the future. Life is better with help: I can help with relationships, infidelity, trust, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, sex issues, panic, addictions, anger, trauma, grief, and more. Frowns really can turn into smiles.
(855) 782-3011 View (855) 782-3011
Photo of Body Mind Soul Healing Centre Inc., Counsellor in Parksville, BC
Body Mind Soul Healing Centre Inc.
Counsellor, MC, CYT, RCC
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Are you feeling anxious, have trouble sleeping, experiencing pained body of grief that wont go away? Complex trauma can lead to individuals developing body hyper-vigilance. This is where the body is continually tensed, as though the body is “braced” for potential trauma. Our bodies hold on to tension & stress from past traumas that can manifest as symptoms: chronic pain & fatigue, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, sexual dysfunction, & immune system dysfunction, Somatic Therapy allows you to connect to deep intuitive experience of body sensations, emotions, movements, & energy to access & release stuck patterns of functioning.
Are you feeling anxious, have trouble sleeping, experiencing pained body of grief that wont go away? Complex trauma can lead to individuals developing body hyper-vigilance. This is where the body is continually tensed, as though the body is “braced” for potential trauma. Our bodies hold on to tension & stress from past traumas that can manifest as symptoms: chronic pain & fatigue, digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, sexual dysfunction, & immune system dysfunction, Somatic Therapy allows you to connect to deep intuitive experience of body sensations, emotions, movements, & energy to access & release stuck patterns of functioning.
(604) 229-2862 View (604) 229-2862
Photo of Lauren Aebig, Counsellor in Parksville, BC
Lauren Aebig
Counsellor, MEd, CCC
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P
I offer personalized therapy that is grounded in research and relationship; in-person & online; child, teen, & individual adult counselling. I want to connect you back to you. You may have experienced trauma in your life such as: unsettling events or experiences, to challenging or abusive relationships that left you feeling wounded, and alone. You may feel blocked or triggered. This may manifest as: anxiety, depression, numbness, flashbacks, trouble sleeping, addictions, or even the need to be perfect. You may find it hard to connect with others, or navigate certain situations. You just want to feel calmer and happier.
I offer personalized therapy that is grounded in research and relationship; in-person & online; child, teen, & individual adult counselling. I want to connect you back to you. You may have experienced trauma in your life such as: unsettling events or experiences, to challenging or abusive relationships that left you feeling wounded, and alone. You may feel blocked or triggered. This may manifest as: anxiety, depression, numbness, flashbacks, trouble sleeping, addictions, or even the need to be perfect. You may find it hard to connect with others, or navigate certain situations. You just want to feel calmer and happier.
(579) 539-0241 View (579) 539-0241
Photo of Christina James, Counsellor in Parksville, BC
Christina James
Counsellor, MACP, MEd, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
ACCEPTING CLIENTS NOW! I firmly believe that each person has the potential to overcome the effects of their difficult life experiences. I am committed to walk alongside you on your path towards healing from depression, anxiety, (complex) trauma, abuse, and other mental health challenges. Providing a safe, non-judgmental environment, I tailor my methods to your needs. I love and have experience working with individuals and families from a variety of cultural backgrounds. My expertise is in supporting those struggling with traumatic experiences as well as difficulties related to cultural and relational contexts.
ACCEPTING CLIENTS NOW! I firmly believe that each person has the potential to overcome the effects of their difficult life experiences. I am committed to walk alongside you on your path towards healing from depression, anxiety, (complex) trauma, abuse, and other mental health challenges. Providing a safe, non-judgmental environment, I tailor my methods to your needs. I love and have experience working with individuals and families from a variety of cultural backgrounds. My expertise is in supporting those struggling with traumatic experiences as well as difficulties related to cultural and relational contexts.
(782) 823-3125 View (782) 823-3125
Photo of Eden Dratva, Registered Social Worker in Parksville, BC
Eden Dratva
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parksville, BC V9P
Not accepting new clients
Currently not accepting new clients. I am a trauma-specific therapist and offer support to children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing mental health symptoms such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use or relationship difficulties. These symptoms may be rooted in trauma, abuse or wounds from the past or you may be experiencing them for the first time; no matter your circumstance, I am here to listen. I also work with new and expectant mothers who may be struggling with postpartum anxiety or depression, intrusive thoughts, rage, loss of identity, or transitioning into their new role as a caregiver.
Currently not accepting new clients. I am a trauma-specific therapist and offer support to children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing mental health symptoms such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use or relationship difficulties. These symptoms may be rooted in trauma, abuse or wounds from the past or you may be experiencing them for the first time; no matter your circumstance, I am here to listen. I also work with new and expectant mothers who may be struggling with postpartum anxiety or depression, intrusive thoughts, rage, loss of identity, or transitioning into their new role as a caregiver.
(867) 670-8317 View (867) 670-8317
Photo of Paola Lake, Psychologist in Parksville, BC
Paola Lake
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Parksville, BC V9P  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy helping individuals create positive change in their lives and dissolve barriers that interfere with personal success. Therapy provides opportunities to learn how to dissolve troublesome emotions that inter with quality of life and the ability to enjoy the present moment. As a therapist, I enjoy helping people overcome a variety of emotional difficulties, including depression, anxiety, adjustment to life changes, addictions, trauma, grief, pain management, low self-esteem and interpersonal problems. I help people access their inner strength to help cope with life's challenges and I provide coaching for goal achievement.
I enjoy helping individuals create positive change in their lives and dissolve barriers that interfere with personal success. Therapy provides opportunities to learn how to dissolve troublesome emotions that inter with quality of life and the ability to enjoy the present moment. As a therapist, I enjoy helping people overcome a variety of emotional difficulties, including depression, anxiety, adjustment to life changes, addictions, trauma, grief, pain management, low self-esteem and interpersonal problems. I help people access their inner strength to help cope with life's challenges and I provide coaching for goal achievement.
(250) 999-0508 View (250) 999-0508

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Robin Jacobs, Counsellor in Parksville, BC
Robin Jacobs
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Qualicum Beach, BC V9K
Ever feel stuck in a loop of frustrating patterns? Long for meaningful connection, but get lost in estrangement or conflict? Wonder why that joyful ease you occasionally glimpse feels buried under a sludge of anxiety, numbness, or anger? No matter how many "new leaves" we turn over — we find ourselves sinking back into the familiar muck. Here we go again! It's not just in your head. Pain and anxiety get encoded and frozen in the physical body, along with all the feelings it's not okay to feel. By adulthood, our nervous systems are hardwired to survive the situation we grew up in – and can get stuck there, replaying the same script.
Ever feel stuck in a loop of frustrating patterns? Long for meaningful connection, but get lost in estrangement or conflict? Wonder why that joyful ease you occasionally glimpse feels buried under a sludge of anxiety, numbness, or anger? No matter how many "new leaves" we turn over — we find ourselves sinking back into the familiar muck. Here we go again! It's not just in your head. Pain and anxiety get encoded and frozen in the physical body, along with all the feelings it's not okay to feel. By adulthood, our nervous systems are hardwired to survive the situation we grew up in – and can get stuck there, replaying the same script.
(506) 308-0970 View (506) 308-0970
Photo of Dawna Anne Silver, Counsellor in Parksville, BC
Dawna Anne Silver
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Qualicum Beach, BC V9K
Life is challenging and we all experience difficulties coping at times. Growth often comes from crises and the taxing periods of our lives. When our resilience is overwhelmed by our life circumstances, we can feel lost and doubt ourselves. Our emotions tell us if we are living true to our needs and values...or not. Experiences can lead to healing and growth. My speciality, Soul Work is an investment that leads to a richly authentic life experience. I am dedicated to helping you navigate the difficult times and understand your journey. Together we will help you regain holistic health in a safe, confidential space.
Life is challenging and we all experience difficulties coping at times. Growth often comes from crises and the taxing periods of our lives. When our resilience is overwhelmed by our life circumstances, we can feel lost and doubt ourselves. Our emotions tell us if we are living true to our needs and values...or not. Experiences can lead to healing and growth. My speciality, Soul Work is an investment that leads to a richly authentic life experience. I am dedicated to helping you navigate the difficult times and understand your journey. Together we will help you regain holistic health in a safe, confidential space.
(866) 568-1448 View (866) 568-1448

Online Therapists

Photo of Kenneth (Ken) Marchtaler, Counsellor in Parksville, BC
Kenneth (Ken) Marchtaler
Counsellor, DOPC, CLC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8R
Are you stuck between where you are, and where you would like to be? Life can be challenging and sometimes all we need is to share our story and consider what opportunities exist for us today. Examining our beliefs and considering the possibilities creates hope for our future. My work is directed towards helping clients better manage challenges such as anxiety, worry, fear, depression, anger, relationship conflict, addiction, trauma, life transitions, loss and grief, energy regulation, and to create better opportunities for the future. A life of health, happiness and harmony - isn't that what we looking for?
Are you stuck between where you are, and where you would like to be? Life can be challenging and sometimes all we need is to share our story and consider what opportunities exist for us today. Examining our beliefs and considering the possibilities creates hope for our future. My work is directed towards helping clients better manage challenges such as anxiety, worry, fear, depression, anger, relationship conflict, addiction, trauma, life transitions, loss and grief, energy regulation, and to create better opportunities for the future. A life of health, happiness and harmony - isn't that what we looking for?
(873) 363-1116 View (873) 363-1116
Photo of Robyn Vardy, Counsellor in Parksville, BC
Robyn Vardy
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W
I am particularly interested in working with those experiencing addiction, trauma, sexual orientation or gender identity issues, life transitions, ADHD, burnout, mood challenges, chronic illness/pain, and grief.
My goal is to honour the best in you while holistically making space for what it means to be a human on this weird, wonderful, messy, precious, sublime adventure we call life. I am mindful of the immense courage and vulnerability it takes to enlist the support of a helping professional and honour this by bringing my most authentic, present, and respectful self to each and every therapeutic interaction.
I am particularly interested in working with those experiencing addiction, trauma, sexual orientation or gender identity issues, life transitions, ADHD, burnout, mood challenges, chronic illness/pain, and grief.
My goal is to honour the best in you while holistically making space for what it means to be a human on this weird, wonderful, messy, precious, sublime adventure we call life. I am mindful of the immense courage and vulnerability it takes to enlist the support of a helping professional and honour this by bringing my most authentic, present, and respectful self to each and every therapeutic interaction.
(431) 341-0894 View (431) 341-0894
Photo of Edric Parasad, Counsellor in Parksville, BC
Edric Parasad
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Langley, BC V2Y
I have provided counselling service to a diverse population of clients. My experience with helping individuals has varied at different capacities including counselling at-risk youth in a Forensic setting to supporting adults with developmental disabilities through community living. My passion involves helping vulnerable people and providing guidance. My therapeutic experience encompasses a broad range of client concerns including trauma, anxiety, abuse, neglect, addiction, emotional regulation, life transitions, identity, interpersonal conflict, self-esteem, stress management and and various disorders (PTSD, ADHD, Depression, etc.).
I have provided counselling service to a diverse population of clients. My experience with helping individuals has varied at different capacities including counselling at-risk youth in a Forensic setting to supporting adults with developmental disabilities through community living. My passion involves helping vulnerable people and providing guidance. My therapeutic experience encompasses a broad range of client concerns including trauma, anxiety, abuse, neglect, addiction, emotional regulation, life transitions, identity, interpersonal conflict, self-esteem, stress management and and various disorders (PTSD, ADHD, Depression, etc.).
(778) 761-4426 View (778) 761-4426
Photo of Dr. Garima Garg, Counsellor in Parksville, BC
Dr. Garima Garg
Counsellor, RCC, CCC, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5V  (Online Only)
Welcome to a safe harbour for your journey towards healing. I am Dr. Garima Garg, a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Certified Life Coach. I specialize in Cognitive behavioural therapy, Neuro-linguistic programming and Dialectical behavioural therapy with clients struggling with their emotions, including in response to unresolved childhood trauma, issues related to family of origin, adult interpersonal trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, gender identity, ADHD, borderline personality disorder, body dysphoria, substance use, low self-esteem, and relationships, including issues related to infidelity and other relationship conflicts.
Welcome to a safe harbour for your journey towards healing. I am Dr. Garima Garg, a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Certified Life Coach. I specialize in Cognitive behavioural therapy, Neuro-linguistic programming and Dialectical behavioural therapy with clients struggling with their emotions, including in response to unresolved childhood trauma, issues related to family of origin, adult interpersonal trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, gender identity, ADHD, borderline personality disorder, body dysphoria, substance use, low self-esteem, and relationships, including issues related to infidelity and other relationship conflicts.
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Photo of Geoffrey Kenneth Argue, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Parksville, BC
Geoffrey Kenneth Argue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, BEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sechelt, BC V0N
My name is Geoff and I received my Masters of Social Work degree from the University of British Columbia as well as my Bachelors of Education degree. Since 2009 I have been working in the mental health and addictions field as well as the public and private school systems. As both a fully licensed Social Worker and Teacher, I have spent the majority of my practice working with youth and Young adults and helping them overcome a variety of issues related to their mental health. I have significant experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, substance misuse, stress (school/career/interpersonal) and psychosis.
My name is Geoff and I received my Masters of Social Work degree from the University of British Columbia as well as my Bachelors of Education degree. Since 2009 I have been working in the mental health and addictions field as well as the public and private school systems. As both a fully licensed Social Worker and Teacher, I have spent the majority of my practice working with youth and Young adults and helping them overcome a variety of issues related to their mental health. I have significant experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, substance misuse, stress (school/career/interpersonal) and psychosis.
(450) 804-4314 View (450) 804-4314

See more therapy options for Parksville

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.