Photo of Kathryn Richardson, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Kathryn Richardson
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1B
I am a licensed therapist specializing in C-PTSD/PTSD, Addictions and Recovery, families and partners affected by a loved one's substance abuse. As well as couples navigating ENM. My therapeutic approach is client centred and science based with complex psycho-education that I translate to be easily understood. I fundamentally believe we all want to know WHY we do what we do to make our lives difficult. WHAT happened to us to make life hard and HOW we get back to a state of peace. Almost every interaction we have is influenced by habits and belief systems that have been ingrained in us from the time we were little kids.
I am a licensed therapist specializing in C-PTSD/PTSD, Addictions and Recovery, families and partners affected by a loved one's substance abuse. As well as couples navigating ENM. My therapeutic approach is client centred and science based with complex psycho-education that I translate to be easily understood. I fundamentally believe we all want to know WHY we do what we do to make our lives difficult. WHAT happened to us to make life hard and HOW we get back to a state of peace. Almost every interaction we have is influenced by habits and belief systems that have been ingrained in us from the time we were little kids.
(548) 457-0205 View (548) 457-0205
Photo of Shannon Thomas, Registered Social Worker in Vernon, BC
Shannon Thomas
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1T
Are you struggling with the harms associated with problematic substance use or are overwhelmed with life stressors? You may be exhausted and unsure of your next move. Or perhaps you know what the next step is but are having difficulty getting started, my name is Shannon, and I offer one to one in person or virtual counselling to help you identify what is stopping you from achieving your goals.
Are you struggling with the harms associated with problematic substance use or are overwhelmed with life stressors? You may be exhausted and unsure of your next move. Or perhaps you know what the next step is but are having difficulty getting started, my name is Shannon, and I offer one to one in person or virtual counselling to help you identify what is stopping you from achieving your goals.
(431) 244-1019 View (431) 244-1019
Photo of Chris Bader, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Chris Bader
Counsellor, RTC, MTC, CCAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1T
I am a Registered & Master Therapeutic Counsellor with the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada, a Gottman Method & EFT Couples Therapist, and a Certified Canadian Addiction Counsellor.
Life is full of unexpected twists and turns. At some points, we can all experience difficult times and need help and support to guide us through. Experiences that have caused pain, anxiety, grief, loss, or shame can feel overpowering if left unrecognized. Working side by side with you on your journey is a privilege. My approach not only focuses on relief from distress, but also helps to develop new tools and clarity of thoughts and feelings through open exploration. A process that can ultimately open up greater inner strength, joy, self-compassion, and serenity.
I am a Registered & Master Therapeutic Counsellor with the Association of Cooperative Counselling Therapists of Canada, a Gottman Method & EFT Couples Therapist, and a Certified Canadian Addiction Counsellor.
Life is full of unexpected twists and turns. At some points, we can all experience difficult times and need help and support to guide us through. Experiences that have caused pain, anxiety, grief, loss, or shame can feel overpowering if left unrecognized. Working side by side with you on your journey is a privilege. My approach not only focuses on relief from distress, but also helps to develop new tools and clarity of thoughts and feelings through open exploration. A process that can ultimately open up greater inner strength, joy, self-compassion, and serenity.
(866) 691-9230 View (866) 691-9230
Photo of Grant M. Waldman - Healing Works Counselling, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Grant M. Waldman - Healing Works Counselling
Counsellor, PhD, MCP, CCC
Verified Verified
Vernon, BC V1T  (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 Ten66 Recovery - Substance Use Counsellor, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Ten66 Recovery - Substance Use Counsellor
Counsellor, CCAC, CIAC, CCPCPr
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1B
Is Substance Use having negative impacts in your life? Are you unsure of what to do next and how to go about doing it? The relationship that we have with substances can feel like handcuffs. It can be that force that tells you it will be different this time and then it isn’t different. It’s this cycle of chaos that can keep us stuck. Breaking the stigma and isolation by walking towards vulnerability and courage can feel like an overwhelming journey, but the rewards can be lifelong. If your substance use is keeping you stuck and hopeless, there is help.
Is Substance Use having negative impacts in your life? Are you unsure of what to do next and how to go about doing it? The relationship that we have with substances can feel like handcuffs. It can be that force that tells you it will be different this time and then it isn’t different. It’s this cycle of chaos that can keep us stuck. Breaking the stigma and isolation by walking towards vulnerability and courage can feel like an overwhelming journey, but the rewards can be lifelong. If your substance use is keeping you stuck and hopeless, there is help.
(548) 490-1798 View (548) 490-1798
Photo of Darrin J Taylor in Vernon, BC
Darrin J Taylor
BA, MTC, CCAC, CIP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1T
If you or someone you love or rely upon is affected by alcoholism or addiction I would like to offer you hope. Whether you are considering an intervention or if you would just like to talk, my toll free number is available 24 hours a day. I offer counselling, assessment, treatment placement assistance and patient transfer services. We offer out-patient addiction treatment at both of our clinics and we work closely with residential treatment providers across North America. Helping families heal is priority one. Axis also serves employers by assisting in the development and management of workplace substance abuse policy. Initial phone consultations are provided at no charge.
If you or someone you love or rely upon is affected by alcoholism or addiction I would like to offer you hope. Whether you are considering an intervention or if you would just like to talk, my toll free number is available 24 hours a day. I offer counselling, assessment, treatment placement assistance and patient transfer services. We offer out-patient addiction treatment at both of our clinics and we work closely with residential treatment providers across North America. Helping families heal is priority one. Axis also serves employers by assisting in the development and management of workplace substance abuse policy. Initial phone consultations are provided at no charge.
(866) 771-9424 View (866) 771-9424
Photo of Joel M. Brazier, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Joel M. Brazier
Counsellor, MSc, RPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1B
I am a Registered Professional Counsellor who has over 10 years experience in the Mental Health and Human Service field. I have a BA, with a Major in Psychology, and a Masters of Science in Psychology in which I graduated with Honours. I have experience helping clients in the following areas: Anxiety, Depression, Self-harm, Substance Abuse, Bullying, Relationships, Family Conflict, and Parenting After Separation. I also work as a vender with ICBC and can help with any symptoms due to a motor vehicle accident.
I am a Registered Professional Counsellor who has over 10 years experience in the Mental Health and Human Service field. I have a BA, with a Major in Psychology, and a Masters of Science in Psychology in which I graduated with Honours. I have experience helping clients in the following areas: Anxiety, Depression, Self-harm, Substance Abuse, Bullying, Relationships, Family Conflict, and Parenting After Separation. I also work as a vender with ICBC and can help with any symptoms due to a motor vehicle accident.
(778) 762-3403 View (778) 762-3403
Photo of Morganna Lerch, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Morganna Lerch
Counsellor, RPC-C, CYCP
Verified Verified
Vernon, BC V1T
I have experience working with barriers such as substance use, neurodiversity, trauma, stress, anxiety, and depression utilizing evidence based practice such as CBT.
Do you feel disconnected, lost, or without a sense of direction in life? Does it feel like stress and anxiety consumes your mental/emotional energy leaving you drained? Maybe at one point, you had a clear sense of who you were and what you wanted out of life but that seems far away now, or maybe motivation and energy has never come naturally to you. If this is something you can relate to, a supportive counselling journey can help you transition from just getting through each day to living life with a sense of purpose and goals.
I have experience working with barriers such as substance use, neurodiversity, trauma, stress, anxiety, and depression utilizing evidence based practice such as CBT.
Do you feel disconnected, lost, or without a sense of direction in life? Does it feel like stress and anxiety consumes your mental/emotional energy leaving you drained? Maybe at one point, you had a clear sense of who you were and what you wanted out of life but that seems far away now, or maybe motivation and energy has never come naturally to you. If this is something you can relate to, a supportive counselling journey can help you transition from just getting through each day to living life with a sense of purpose and goals.
(249) 444-2499 View (249) 444-2499
Photo of John E Charlton, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
John E Charlton
Counsellor, DMin, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1T  (Online Only)
Are you Anxious? Depressed? Stressed? Overwhelmed? Feeling out of control? Are you struggling with trauma or substance abuse? Are you having relationship problems? Difficulty communicating effectively? I can help.
Discover your strengths. Identify your obstacles. Embrace your mental acuity. I offer a blend of innovative, evidence-based, person-centred, best practice mental health therapy and coaching that is designed and tailored for people who think outside the box. You will NOT get a cookie cutter, one size fits all, experience here! Nor will you receive a shallow, feel good, session. We will look at underlying issues and root causes. If you are looking for actionable results each session. Take that bold step, reach out. I can help.
Are you Anxious? Depressed? Stressed? Overwhelmed? Feeling out of control? Are you struggling with trauma or substance abuse? Are you having relationship problems? Difficulty communicating effectively? I can help.
Discover your strengths. Identify your obstacles. Embrace your mental acuity. I offer a blend of innovative, evidence-based, person-centred, best practice mental health therapy and coaching that is designed and tailored for people who think outside the box. You will NOT get a cookie cutter, one size fits all, experience here! Nor will you receive a shallow, feel good, session. We will look at underlying issues and root causes. If you are looking for actionable results each session. Take that bold step, reach out. I can help.
(365) 659-4006 View (365) 659-4006
Photo of Deborah Pearce Counselling, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Deborah Pearce Counselling
Counsellor, RTC, MTC, SEP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1B
It is often referred for addiction recovery, abuse and neglect of childhood trauma, among various other mental health issues and diagnoses.
If you arrived here with stress, anxiety, loneliness, depression, fear, anger, old trauma... and possibly the intense issues of the recent 3 years magnify the sense that it will never end. Struggling to fix unsuccessfully, the pain and confusion feels stuck. Pain requires attention that heals it, not the kind that perpetuates it. We can do lot on our own, but we don't heal alone. When no courage is felt, is exactly the time to reach for acceptance and support. Connection is basic human instinct. Now is your time. Make the call you deeply long to.
It is often referred for addiction recovery, abuse and neglect of childhood trauma, among various other mental health issues and diagnoses.
If you arrived here with stress, anxiety, loneliness, depression, fear, anger, old trauma... and possibly the intense issues of the recent 3 years magnify the sense that it will never end. Struggling to fix unsuccessfully, the pain and confusion feels stuck. Pain requires attention that heals it, not the kind that perpetuates it. We can do lot on our own, but we don't heal alone. When no courage is felt, is exactly the time to reach for acceptance and support. Connection is basic human instinct. Now is your time. Make the call you deeply long to.
(250) 878-9503 View (250) 878-9503
Photo of Janice Helle Psychological Services, Psychologist in Vernon, BC
Janice Helle Psychological Services
Psychologist, BScPEd, BEd, MA
Verified Verified
Vernon, BC V1T  (Online Only)
As a Registered Psychologist I offer the best in emotional, mental, social, physical, and spiritual guidance. I can assess and help you with anxiety, depression and stress. I can also help with life transitions, relationships, conflict resolution, and communication issues. I have experience working with mental health and addiction issues. I can also plan a physical wellness program and help with weight management issues. I also work with students who have academic and learning issues. I do career counselling and can help you find your inner passions to live the life you want.
As a Registered Psychologist I offer the best in emotional, mental, social, physical, and spiritual guidance. I can assess and help you with anxiety, depression and stress. I can also help with life transitions, relationships, conflict resolution, and communication issues. I have experience working with mental health and addiction issues. I can also plan a physical wellness program and help with weight management issues. I also work with students who have academic and learning issues. I do career counselling and can help you find your inner passions to live the life you want.
(250) 253-0190 View (250) 253-0190
Photo of Cory Arthurs, MC RCC, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Cory Arthurs, MC RCC
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1T
I am especially informed around women's issues, substance use, and trauma.
We all face challenges, obstacles, and the pain of our inner wounds- and you deserve a safe space to explore and heal from these experiences. Perhaps you are noticing the impacts of childhood experiences, past relationships, or recent events. Maybe life shifts and transitions are feeling heavy or confusing. I am here to support you in discovering what healing looks like for you, to allow us to gently approach the vulnerable parts of your experiences. You do not need to be alone in your next steps of your healing journey.
I am especially informed around women's issues, substance use, and trauma.
We all face challenges, obstacles, and the pain of our inner wounds- and you deserve a safe space to explore and heal from these experiences. Perhaps you are noticing the impacts of childhood experiences, past relationships, or recent events. Maybe life shifts and transitions are feeling heavy or confusing. I am here to support you in discovering what healing looks like for you, to allow us to gently approach the vulnerable parts of your experiences. You do not need to be alone in your next steps of your healing journey.
(855) 221-8542 View (855) 221-8542
Photo of Mary Graydon, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Mary Graydon
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
Vernon, BC V1B
I treat trauma - childhood, shock (eg. accidents, medical) and relational (eg. betrayal, bullying) utilizing IFS and EMDR. These models are experiential, not "talk therapy". I also offer Gottman Method couples counselling. While I see all adults, I have additional training in treating those suffering and addiction, their family members and adult children of alcoholics. Often, people impacted by addiction - their own or someone else's - carry the heavy burdens of shame, anxiety, low self-esteem and other extremely painful legacies. If you are ready to dive deeply into the roots of your distress, IFS and EMDR may be a fit for you.
I treat trauma - childhood, shock (eg. accidents, medical) and relational (eg. betrayal, bullying) utilizing IFS and EMDR. These models are experiential, not "talk therapy". I also offer Gottman Method couples counselling. While I see all adults, I have additional training in treating those suffering and addiction, their family members and adult children of alcoholics. Often, people impacted by addiction - their own or someone else's - carry the heavy burdens of shame, anxiety, low self-esteem and other extremely painful legacies. If you are ready to dive deeply into the roots of your distress, IFS and EMDR may be a fit for you.
(365) 659-2714 View (365) 659-2714
Photo of Tara Irwin, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Tara Irwin
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1B
I have been providing support for individuals struggling with mental health concerns for over a decade. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, substance abuse, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, self-harm and other emotion regulation difficulties. I hope to make people to feel safe and secure in sharing personal challenges and provide a compassionate, respectful, and non-judgmental perspective on complex struggles and coping difficulties.
I have been providing support for individuals struggling with mental health concerns for over a decade. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, substance abuse, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, self-harm and other emotion regulation difficulties. I hope to make people to feel safe and secure in sharing personal challenges and provide a compassionate, respectful, and non-judgmental perspective on complex struggles and coping difficulties.
(778) 860-7976 View (778) 860-7976
Photo of Nathan MacRae, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vernon, BC
Nathan MacRae
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Vernon, BC V1T  (Online Only)
My approach combines over 10 years in mental health/addiction services with my own lived experience.
There is a path forward to a fulfilling and happy future for everyone. Working together, I can support you in cultivating compassion for yourself and others, taking pride in who you are, navigating relationships and moving through the difficulties that arise in life. As a queer trans person, I use an anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, intersectional framework, supporting the queer, trans, kink, and non-monogamous communities in unpacking identity, sex and relationship issues, emotional dysregulation, trauma, depression, anxiety and addiction. I offer gender-affirming hormone and top and gonadectomy surgical readiness assessments.
My approach combines over 10 years in mental health/addiction services with my own lived experience.
There is a path forward to a fulfilling and happy future for everyone. Working together, I can support you in cultivating compassion for yourself and others, taking pride in who you are, navigating relationships and moving through the difficulties that arise in life. As a queer trans person, I use an anti-oppressive, trauma-informed, intersectional framework, supporting the queer, trans, kink, and non-monogamous communities in unpacking identity, sex and relationship issues, emotional dysregulation, trauma, depression, anxiety and addiction. I offer gender-affirming hormone and top and gonadectomy surgical readiness assessments.
(604) 330-0117 View (604) 330-0117
Photo of Dr. John Álvarez, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Dr. John Álvarez
Counsellor, MD, MA, RCC, CGP, PATGC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon, BC V1B
My practice specializes in psychedelic-assisted therapy and men's issues, including anger, break-ups, burnout, stress and addiction.
Ever feel like saying F#CK My Life? I sure do, especially with therapy being the second toughest thing in the world to sell to men! Not only do you have to admit you need help, which is hard enough for most guys, but then there's the ridiculous social stigma that getting therapy is admitting weakness instead of strength. To add insult to injury therapy can be time consuming, results aren't guaranteed and it isn't cheap either. So why bother? Because regret is a much worse feeling than failure. Those who become old and regret not taking leaps of faith now realize it is too late to fulfill their purpose. So, let's get started.
My practice specializes in psychedelic-assisted therapy and men's issues, including anger, break-ups, burnout, stress and addiction.
Ever feel like saying F#CK My Life? I sure do, especially with therapy being the second toughest thing in the world to sell to men! Not only do you have to admit you need help, which is hard enough for most guys, but then there's the ridiculous social stigma that getting therapy is admitting weakness instead of strength. To add insult to injury therapy can be time consuming, results aren't guaranteed and it isn't cheap either. So why bother? Because regret is a much worse feeling than failure. Those who become old and regret not taking leaps of faith now realize it is too late to fulfill their purpose. So, let's get started.
(778) 400-1469 View (778) 400-1469
Photo of Steve Braun Coaching & Counselling, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Steve Braun Coaching & Counselling
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, CCRC
Verified Verified
Vernon, BC V1T
Counselling for people who don’t want counselling. Ya, you read that right. Let’s be honest, searching for a counsellor probably wasn't on your bucket list. However, we commend you for being here if you’re ready to make some life changes. We don’t believe therapy should be a boring, stale, clinical experience. We combine a casual approach with hyper-focused intensity, real talk, everyday language and a whole lot of fun. Self-improvement shouldn't feel like a chore. We want you looking forward to your appointments and leave feeling empowered. So if getting help is a must for you right now, might as well try and enjoy the process!
Counselling for people who don’t want counselling. Ya, you read that right. Let’s be honest, searching for a counsellor probably wasn't on your bucket list. However, we commend you for being here if you’re ready to make some life changes. We don’t believe therapy should be a boring, stale, clinical experience. We combine a casual approach with hyper-focused intensity, real talk, everyday language and a whole lot of fun. Self-improvement shouldn't feel like a chore. We want you looking forward to your appointments and leave feeling empowered. So if getting help is a must for you right now, might as well try and enjoy the process!
(778) 932-1978 View (778) 932-1978
Photo of Noland Trombley Counselling Services, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Noland Trombley Counselling Services
Counsellor, RPC, RHIP
Verified Verified
Vernon, BC V1T
I'm here to help you examine the issues and concerns you have about your thoughts, fears, behaviours, habits, work, and relationships. I especially enjoy assisting people who feel "stuck" to understand the mechanics of what helped get you stuck, and how to get moving again. My area of particular focus is relational issues, whether they be with friends, romantic partners or prospects, co-workers, family, etc.
I'm here to help you examine the issues and concerns you have about your thoughts, fears, behaviours, habits, work, and relationships. I especially enjoy assisting people who feel "stuck" to understand the mechanics of what helped get you stuck, and how to get moving again. My area of particular focus is relational issues, whether they be with friends, romantic partners or prospects, co-workers, family, etc.
(855) 459-6711 View (855) 459-6711
Photo of Monica Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vernon, BC
Monica Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Vernon, BC V1T
Helping families, individuals and children through difficult experiences has been my career's focus for over 25 years. I utilize child-centered play/art therapy, sand tray work, emotional regulation, cognitive behavioural therapy and rational emotive behavioural therapy. These strategies allow children and adults to reveal their anger, fears sadness or frustrations in order to better understand and express themselves. My holistic and creative approach allows clients to feel comfortable, heal, overcome obstacles and embrace positive changes that can ultimately create a more satisfying quality of life.
Helping families, individuals and children through difficult experiences has been my career's focus for over 25 years. I utilize child-centered play/art therapy, sand tray work, emotional regulation, cognitive behavioural therapy and rational emotive behavioural therapy. These strategies allow children and adults to reveal their anger, fears sadness or frustrations in order to better understand and express themselves. My holistic and creative approach allows clients to feel comfortable, heal, overcome obstacles and embrace positive changes that can ultimately create a more satisfying quality of life.
(250) 540-2410 View (250) 540-2410
Photo of Paige Hollingsworth, Counsellor in Vernon, BC
Paige Hollingsworth
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Vernon, BC V1B  (Online Only)
I specialize in relationship counselling and individual counselling. Have you noticed that worrying is negatively impacting your life or your relationships? Are you feeling hijacked by worry, distressing thoughts, or rumination? Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed, have difficulty falling asleep, or are feeling stuck in life. Are you and your partner no longer feeling connected and supported by each other? Do you look at your partner and wonder where the person you committed to went? Do you feel like your partner is a stranger, and experience loneliness? Are you looking for a change? I can help.
I specialize in relationship counselling and individual counselling. Have you noticed that worrying is negatively impacting your life or your relationships? Are you feeling hijacked by worry, distressing thoughts, or rumination? Perhaps you are feeling overwhelmed, have difficulty falling asleep, or are feeling stuck in life. Are you and your partner no longer feeling connected and supported by each other? Do you look at your partner and wonder where the person you committed to went? Do you feel like your partner is a stranger, and experience loneliness? Are you looking for a change? I can help.
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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.