Therapists in Victoria, BC
Joelene Heathcote Registered Counsellor
Counsellor, BA, MFA, RTC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8R
I support clients managing emotional challenges, BPD traits, depression, OCD, perfectionism, negative internal dialogue, addiction, grief, trauma, and difficult family dynamics. Together we explore a client's history, experience, emotions, and develop better skills for managing challenges. Often old coping strategies are no longer serving the client. Developing relational intimacy with others, and more compassionate communication with self is integral to my work with individuals and families. Together we find solutions for healing and moving forward in healthy ways so clients can align more authenticly with themselves.
I support clients managing emotional challenges, BPD traits, depression, OCD, perfectionism, negative internal dialogue, addiction, grief, trauma, and difficult family dynamics. Together we explore a client's history, experience, emotions, and develop better skills for managing challenges. Often old coping strategies are no longer serving the client. Developing relational intimacy with others, and more compassionate communication with self is integral to my work with individuals and families. Together we find solutions for healing and moving forward in healthy ways so clients can align more authenticly with themselves.
Lauren Kniewasser
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V (Online Only)
Two Spirit, Queer, and Trans friendly and accepting new clients! I am a settler from unceded Algonquin territory living on the traditional territory of the Dane-zaa Nation. I am a strong believer in social justice and I work with adults, teens, and families who want support with anxiety, depression, trauma, systemic oppression and bullying, substance use, family and relationship conflict, 2Slgbtqia+ identity, attachment wounds, and whatever you feel you need support with! I love nature and outdoor sports, expressing myself through art, and laughing with friends. Humour and playing help me feel alive and most like myself.
Two Spirit, Queer, and Trans friendly and accepting new clients! I am a settler from unceded Algonquin territory living on the traditional territory of the Dane-zaa Nation. I am a strong believer in social justice and I work with adults, teens, and families who want support with anxiety, depression, trauma, systemic oppression and bullying, substance use, family and relationship conflict, 2Slgbtqia+ identity, attachment wounds, and whatever you feel you need support with! I love nature and outdoor sports, expressing myself through art, and laughing with friends. Humour and playing help me feel alive and most like myself.
Hanna Shapiro
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8W
I am an RCC specializing in treating addiction, trauma, mood disorders, and interpersonal issues. My approach is rooted in the belief that a greater awareness of where our actions and reactions come from can give us the power to change. I work with my clients to understand how their attachment styles and life experiences have informed how they relate to others and to themselves. With this knowledge we work together to address unwanted behaviours and implement new coping skills for emotional regulation and communication.
I am an RCC specializing in treating addiction, trauma, mood disorders, and interpersonal issues. My approach is rooted in the belief that a greater awareness of where our actions and reactions come from can give us the power to change. I work with my clients to understand how their attachment styles and life experiences have informed how they relate to others and to themselves. With this knowledge we work together to address unwanted behaviours and implement new coping skills for emotional regulation and communication.
Dr. Jacqueline Armour
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, PhD, CSAT, ICADC, CPTT
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8T
Are you struggling with addiction or the betrayal trauma of a loved one's addiction? My name is Jacqueline Armour and I would be honored to help. I understand the unique challenges of sex addiction and the impact it can have on relationships. With years of experience and extensive training in the field, my team and I offer a safe and compassionate space for individuals and couples to heal and regain control of their lives. Our expertise extends beyond sex addiction, we also provide support for those struggling with substance abuse, recognizing the complex interplay between addiction and mental health.
Are you struggling with addiction or the betrayal trauma of a loved one's addiction? My name is Jacqueline Armour and I would be honored to help. I understand the unique challenges of sex addiction and the impact it can have on relationships. With years of experience and extensive training in the field, my team and I offer a safe and compassionate space for individuals and couples to heal and regain control of their lives. Our expertise extends beyond sex addiction, we also provide support for those struggling with substance abuse, recognizing the complex interplay between addiction and mental health.
Michelle Bass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, PhD, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8W
I can help you overcome substance misuse, depression, anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties and trauma.
I have 25 years of experience and I can help you achieve your goals. I am knowledgeable and skilled in a variety of effective counseling practices including psycho-dynamic, solution- focused and cognitive-behavioral therapy. I will work with you to find the most effective approach that is best suited to your situation. I am compassionate, non-judgmental and will provide you with a safe place to explore your issues. My focus is on you the whole person. My approach is active, goal-directed and collaborative. I can help you feel better and gain a new perspective.
I can help you overcome substance misuse, depression, anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties and trauma.
I have 25 years of experience and I can help you achieve your goals. I am knowledgeable and skilled in a variety of effective counseling practices including psycho-dynamic, solution- focused and cognitive-behavioral therapy. I will work with you to find the most effective approach that is best suited to your situation. I am compassionate, non-judgmental and will provide you with a safe place to explore your issues. My focus is on you the whole person. My approach is active, goal-directed and collaborative. I can help you feel better and gain a new perspective.
Amanda Fowler
BScN, RN
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8X (Online Only)
This may be your first time working with a therapist or maybe a venture away from avenues you've explored so far. I'm happy to meet you at any stage of your journey and offer kindness and empathy while walking that path with you. In particular, I have a compassionate understanding of the struggles known by those experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD/CPTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, BPD, grief, and difficulty with relationships, self-esteem, and intimacy. I’ve worked extensively with first responders and military. Under unbearable weight, I understand that addiction and self-harming patterns are often a means of coping.
This may be your first time working with a therapist or maybe a venture away from avenues you've explored so far. I'm happy to meet you at any stage of your journey and offer kindness and empathy while walking that path with you. In particular, I have a compassionate understanding of the struggles known by those experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD/CPTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, BPD, grief, and difficulty with relationships, self-esteem, and intimacy. I’ve worked extensively with first responders and military. Under unbearable weight, I understand that addiction and self-harming patterns are often a means of coping.
Valerie MacNeil
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8R
I work with anxiety and depression, ADHD, grief, loss, transition, stress, addiction and codependency.
Are you experiencing overwhelming emotions, unwanted thoughts, challenging relationships, codependency, ADHD, symptoms of trauma, unhelpful habits or addiction? You are not alone, anyone can benefit from counselling at some point in their lives; we all need help from time to time. Depression and anxiety are some of the most uncomfortable emotions we can feel and can take away our motivation and joy in life. If you are feeling stuck in life, I can help by listening to your concerns and providing the support you need.
I work with anxiety and depression, ADHD, grief, loss, transition, stress, addiction and codependency.
Are you experiencing overwhelming emotions, unwanted thoughts, challenging relationships, codependency, ADHD, symptoms of trauma, unhelpful habits or addiction? You are not alone, anyone can benefit from counselling at some point in their lives; we all need help from time to time. Depression and anxiety are some of the most uncomfortable emotions we can feel and can take away our motivation and joy in life. If you are feeling stuck in life, I can help by listening to your concerns and providing the support you need.
Lori Cunningham
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8Z
If you are suffering through anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, relationship difficulties, a loss of a loved one, parenting issues or simply in need of guidance in your life; I am here for you.
Sometimes life throws us a curve ball that we have a difficult time managing on our own. The good new is we don't have to. You have taking the first step. I know it can sometimes feel like there’s no way out and this is just the way you are, but I’m here to tell you, it’s not and there is. Together we are going to work to breakthrough the things that have been bringing you down, getting in your way, and holding you back –Collaboratively, we will work to help you gain the skills and confidence needed to live your best life possible. I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgemental counselling experience.
If you are suffering through anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, relationship difficulties, a loss of a loved one, parenting issues or simply in need of guidance in your life; I am here for you.
Sometimes life throws us a curve ball that we have a difficult time managing on our own. The good new is we don't have to. You have taking the first step. I know it can sometimes feel like there’s no way out and this is just the way you are, but I’m here to tell you, it’s not and there is. Together we are going to work to breakthrough the things that have been bringing you down, getting in your way, and holding you back –Collaboratively, we will work to help you gain the skills and confidence needed to live your best life possible. I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgemental counselling experience.
Monica Freudenreich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8T
Waitlist for new clients
Since 2010, I have worked with individuals struggling with trauma, substance use, and chronic health conditions including HIV.
"We are all wired for connection. It’s in our biology. As infants, our need for connection is about survival. As we grow older, connection means thriving – emotionally, physically, spiritually, and intellectually. Connection is critical because we all have the basic need to feel accepted and to believe that we belong and are valued for who we are” - Brene Brown At the core of my practice, I believe that a meaningful therapeutic connection can spark change. Talk therapy is a powerful tool to build and enhance acceptance, connection, and healing.
Since 2010, I have worked with individuals struggling with trauma, substance use, and chronic health conditions including HIV.
"We are all wired for connection. It’s in our biology. As infants, our need for connection is about survival. As we grow older, connection means thriving – emotionally, physically, spiritually, and intellectually. Connection is critical because we all have the basic need to feel accepted and to believe that we belong and are valued for who we are” - Brene Brown At the core of my practice, I believe that a meaningful therapeutic connection can spark change. Talk therapy is a powerful tool to build and enhance acceptance, connection, and healing.
Serena Polt
Counsellor, RCC, MA, BSc, BEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8Z
My clients are people suffering from addictions, anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders and are also the families of those affected by substance-use issues. The goal of my clients is to find more freedom and joy in their lives.
My clients are people suffering from addictions, anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders and are also the families of those affected by substance-use issues. The goal of my clients is to find more freedom and joy in their lives.
Michelle McLean
Counsellor, MEd, CCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8P (Online Only)
My background is in cancer care, addiction, and workplace stress, with specializations in mood concerns (depression, anxiety), loss and grief (death, pet loss, unexpected life transitions, identity crises), health and illness (health anxiety, chronic pain), addiction (substance use, recovery, behavioural), and trauma (veterans, first responders).
Feeling overwhelmed by frustrated needs, responsibilities, being overlooked in love or work, losing someone important, health concerns, or a relentless internal critic? Does this lead to sadness, despair, rage, dread, or shame that feels too heavy to bear? Do you cope by numbing, lashing out at loved ones, engaging in addictive behaviours, socially isolating, or avoiding what matters? We can grow weary managing this chaos of life alone, yet asking for help is hard. I can lend a hand supporting you to face pain and find meaning in troubled times, lightening the load so you can spread your wings to find more room for joy in life.
My background is in cancer care, addiction, and workplace stress, with specializations in mood concerns (depression, anxiety), loss and grief (death, pet loss, unexpected life transitions, identity crises), health and illness (health anxiety, chronic pain), addiction (substance use, recovery, behavioural), and trauma (veterans, first responders).
Feeling overwhelmed by frustrated needs, responsibilities, being overlooked in love or work, losing someone important, health concerns, or a relentless internal critic? Does this lead to sadness, despair, rage, dread, or shame that feels too heavy to bear? Do you cope by numbing, lashing out at loved ones, engaging in addictive behaviours, socially isolating, or avoiding what matters? We can grow weary managing this chaos of life alone, yet asking for help is hard. I can lend a hand supporting you to face pain and find meaning in troubled times, lightening the load so you can spread your wings to find more room for joy in life.
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Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8Z
If you are suffering with trauma, substance abuse, relationship difficulties, a loss of a loved one, parenting issues or simply in need of guidance in your life; I am here for you.
The deepest desire of a human is to belong…to be heard…and to be accepted… Sometimes life presents us with difficulties that are tough to manage or resolve on our own. There are times when we need to ask for help in order to find ourselves and to move forward. As a person and a counsellor, I know that life’s challenges can happen at all stages of our lives at multiple levels and that every situation is unique to us alone. Circumstances that can challenge how we think, how we perceive, how we believe and how we respond.
If you are suffering with trauma, substance abuse, relationship difficulties, a loss of a loved one, parenting issues or simply in need of guidance in your life; I am here for you.
The deepest desire of a human is to belong…to be heard…and to be accepted… Sometimes life presents us with difficulties that are tough to manage or resolve on our own. There are times when we need to ask for help in order to find ourselves and to move forward. As a person and a counsellor, I know that life’s challenges can happen at all stages of our lives at multiple levels and that every situation is unique to us alone. Circumstances that can challenge how we think, how we perceive, how we believe and how we respond.
Christine Petra Hegedus
Counsellor, BA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W
This often leads to anxiety, depression, substance abuse, burnout and/or a sense of nihilism and lack of meaning.
Hello and welcome. I am a Master's level counsellor (RCC, MA - University of Victoria) who specializes in three main (often overlapping) areas: addictions, neurodivergence and complex trauma. As a therapist, my goal is to help you understand who you are and to help you make sense of what happened to you, so that you can move forward in a more conscious and intentional way. Beyond self-awareness, I believe the purpose of therapy is to transform the negative emotional patterns and beliefs that have been influencing your thoughts, behaviors and relationships.
This often leads to anxiety, depression, substance abuse, burnout and/or a sense of nihilism and lack of meaning.
Hello and welcome. I am a Master's level counsellor (RCC, MA - University of Victoria) who specializes in three main (often overlapping) areas: addictions, neurodivergence and complex trauma. As a therapist, my goal is to help you understand who you are and to help you make sense of what happened to you, so that you can move forward in a more conscious and intentional way. Beyond self-awareness, I believe the purpose of therapy is to transform the negative emotional patterns and beliefs that have been influencing your thoughts, behaviors and relationships.
Plum Blossom Counselling Inc.
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CSAT, SEP, CPTT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9A
I am a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist; for problematic sexual behaviour, Internet Gaming Disorder, a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist for partners of those struggling with compulsive sexual behaviour, and I use Somatic Experiencing, CPT and Prolonged Exposure, and to help individuals heal from trauma including complex trauma.
Do you feel you’re not living the life that you want for yourself? Do you find that you repeat patterns of behaviour that you realize aren’t serving you and are keeping you from meaningful connections and intimate relationships? I can support you to heal from chemical and behavioural addictions (compulsive sexual behaviours, problematic pornography use, intimacy disorders, internet gaming), childhood, attachment, and/or family of origin wounds, unhealthy financial behaviours, and mental health (depression, anxiety, etc.). I work with individuals who have experienced trauma, PTSD, Complex PTSD, sexual trauma, and First Responders.
I am a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist; for problematic sexual behaviour, Internet Gaming Disorder, a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist for partners of those struggling with compulsive sexual behaviour, and I use Somatic Experiencing, CPT and Prolonged Exposure, and to help individuals heal from trauma including complex trauma.
Do you feel you’re not living the life that you want for yourself? Do you find that you repeat patterns of behaviour that you realize aren’t serving you and are keeping you from meaningful connections and intimate relationships? I can support you to heal from chemical and behavioural addictions (compulsive sexual behaviours, problematic pornography use, intimacy disorders, internet gaming), childhood, attachment, and/or family of origin wounds, unhealthy financial behaviours, and mental health (depression, anxiety, etc.). I work with individuals who have experienced trauma, PTSD, Complex PTSD, sexual trauma, and First Responders.
Sue Donaldson
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, RSW, CCAC, ICADC, CEC, CIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8T
Pegasus Recovery Solutions offers a range of comprehensive services to treat individuals who are dealing with a substance use disorder or process addiction. We also provides education and support to their affected family members. Sue Donaldson, founder and director, is an addictions treatment specialist, with 27 years of experience, who leads a team of excellent professionals at Pegasus.
Pegasus Recovery Solutions offers a range of comprehensive services to treat individuals who are dealing with a substance use disorder or process addiction. We also provides education and support to their affected family members. Sue Donaldson, founder and director, is an addictions treatment specialist, with 27 years of experience, who leads a team of excellent professionals at Pegasus.
Love With Boundaries
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8Z (Online Only)
Having an addicted person in your life can feel like a nightmare and tear your family apart. In order for addiction to have a chance of healing, we must first address the dynamics of the addict's relationships with their loved ones. Many loved ones unwittingly enable the addiction to continue, sometimes because they want to avoid confrontation and conflict. As the enabling continues, the addiction continues as well-and becomes progressively worse. It is important to understand that enabling an addict is never a loving act-and only leads to more severe consequences as time goes on.
Having an addicted person in your life can feel like a nightmare and tear your family apart. In order for addiction to have a chance of healing, we must first address the dynamics of the addict's relationships with their loved ones. Many loved ones unwittingly enable the addiction to continue, sometimes because they want to avoid confrontation and conflict. As the enabling continues, the addiction continues as well-and becomes progressively worse. It is important to understand that enabling an addict is never a loving act-and only leads to more severe consequences as time goes on.
Heather Mitchell
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8L
My name is Heather, and my counselling approach is centred on genuine connection and creating safety for the folks I get to work with. I could be a good fit for you if you are looking to address substance use, trauma symptoms, relationship struggles, curiosities around sex/sexuality, and/or general mental health concerns. My clients have described me as calm and compassionate while also holding people accountable to their therapy goals. I work from an emotion focused, relational, and experiential framework. You are in the driver's seat and I am here to support you with compassion and curiosity. Looking forward to connecting!
My name is Heather, and my counselling approach is centred on genuine connection and creating safety for the folks I get to work with. I could be a good fit for you if you are looking to address substance use, trauma symptoms, relationship struggles, curiosities around sex/sexuality, and/or general mental health concerns. My clients have described me as calm and compassionate while also holding people accountable to their therapy goals. I work from an emotion focused, relational, and experiential framework. You are in the driver's seat and I am here to support you with compassion and curiosity. Looking forward to connecting!
Natasha Roop
Counsellor, MCP, RCC, BSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8P
Hello, I am glad you are reading my profile and hope we can connect! My name is Natasha Roop (she/they), and I am a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive therapist. I am Splatsin First Nations and European and am working to help decolonize the field of counselling. Individuals who seek my counselling services want to take back their power and better understand themselves on a deeper level. I work with individuals unpacking their racial, gender and sexual identity and the effects of structures in our society. With other individuals, we process and work through trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, life changes, and addiction/substance abuse.
Hello, I am glad you are reading my profile and hope we can connect! My name is Natasha Roop (she/they), and I am a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive therapist. I am Splatsin First Nations and European and am working to help decolonize the field of counselling. Individuals who seek my counselling services want to take back their power and better understand themselves on a deeper level. I work with individuals unpacking their racial, gender and sexual identity and the effects of structures in our society. With other individuals, we process and work through trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, life changes, and addiction/substance abuse.
Surrender To Hope Counselling
Counsellor, MA, RCC, ADACR
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V9A
Dana is trained in trauma informed care, expressive therapies, is an expert in addiction recovery, and integrates behavioural therapies into her work.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor in British Columbia and a certified Drug and Alcohol Counsellor with over 15 years of counselling experience. I was born and raised on Vancouver Island and have a Bachelor in Child and Youth Care with extensive experience in children, youth and family counselling. Personal and professional experiences led me to complete a Master of Arts in Addiction Counselling at the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation School of Addiction Studies. I have been mentored by, and worked alongside, the experts in addiction and mental health recovery. If you, or a loved one, is struggling, I can help.
Dana is trained in trauma informed care, expressive therapies, is an expert in addiction recovery, and integrates behavioural therapies into her work.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor in British Columbia and a certified Drug and Alcohol Counsellor with over 15 years of counselling experience. I was born and raised on Vancouver Island and have a Bachelor in Child and Youth Care with extensive experience in children, youth and family counselling. Personal and professional experiences led me to complete a Master of Arts in Addiction Counselling at the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation School of Addiction Studies. I have been mentored by, and worked alongside, the experts in addiction and mental health recovery. If you, or a loved one, is struggling, I can help.
Colleen McKee
Counsellor, BA, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8L
Experience working with addiction, trauma, and occupational stress injuries in First Responders.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS - Now open in Sidney, BC! Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, struggling, stuck in negative self-thought patterns, or in need of a little help to sort through life’s challenges? You are not alone and I can help. As a therapist, I have developed skills to support and help you along your healing journey. Our therapeutic relationship is an integral part of your healing and it is my goal to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, compassionate environment based on caring and trust. We can work together to help you find ways to overcome life's difficulties and challenges so you can live your best life.
Experience working with addiction, trauma, and occupational stress injuries in First Responders.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS - Now open in Sidney, BC! Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, struggling, stuck in negative self-thought patterns, or in need of a little help to sort through life’s challenges? You are not alone and I can help. As a therapist, I have developed skills to support and help you along your healing journey. Our therapeutic relationship is an integral part of your healing and it is my goal to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, compassionate environment based on caring and trust. We can work together to help you find ways to overcome life's difficulties and challenges so you can live your best life.
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Nearby Addiction Counsellors Searches for Victoria
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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.