Addiction Therapists in Kelowna, BC

Photo of Courtney Rogers - Reach Out Counselling & Support Services, BSW, MSW, RSW, BCCSW, Registered Social Worker
Reach Out Counselling & Support Services
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW, BCCSW
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Specializations in addiction, grief, ADHD, grief, and disability.
Courtney is a Registered Social Worker with a Master's Degree in Social Work from UBC. She has enjoyed supporting youth, adults, caregivers, and families for over 15 years in the Okanagan, and her background includes working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Developmental Disabilities. She believes that every individual has the ability for positive change, and great internal strength to discover themselves and what they need.
Specializations in addiction, grief, ADHD, grief, and disability.
Courtney is a Registered Social Worker with a Master's Degree in Social Work from UBC. She has enjoyed supporting youth, adults, caregivers, and families for over 15 years in the Okanagan, and her background includes working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Developmental Disabilities. She believes that every individual has the ability for positive change, and great internal strength to discover themselves and what they need.
(548) 800-1948 View (548) 800-1948
Photo of Alisha Wozny, BA, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Alisha Wozny
Counsellor, BA, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I offer online and in-person mental health support in the form of individual counselling, couples counselling, and/or family counselling! I specialize in working with anxiety/phobias, depression, trauma, grief, and substance use.
“Grow through what you go through”. I like to call myself a “WHY” therapist. I believe that clients grow through their experiences starting from their “roots” (or their childhood). I believe that growing through experiences that may have stemmed from traumatic events in life or maladaptive ways of being, are the pinnacle of a therapeutic experience. I am here to guide you on your journey to self-actualization and improved mental health.
I offer online and in-person mental health support in the form of individual counselling, couples counselling, and/or family counselling! I specialize in working with anxiety/phobias, depression, trauma, grief, and substance use.
“Grow through what you go through”. I like to call myself a “WHY” therapist. I believe that clients grow through their experiences starting from their “roots” (or their childhood). I believe that growing through experiences that may have stemmed from traumatic events in life or maladaptive ways of being, are the pinnacle of a therapeutic experience. I am here to guide you on your journey to self-actualization and improved mental health.
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Photo of Stephanie Hopkins, RCC, RSW, MACP, Registered Social Worker
Stephanie Hopkins
Registered Social Worker, RCC, RSW, MACP
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Stephanie has over a decade of experience working with clients living with addiction, grief and mental health challenges.
Are you feeling stuck, repeating patterns in relationships despite best efforts to change? Maybe you are seeking recovery from addiction, or coping with the loss of a loved one. How do you function in a life that keeps going despite your great loss? You're overwhelmed and feel like you're spiraling out of control. It is difficult to sleep or function at work or home. I can help you make sense of what you are experiencing, so that you can learn new ways of thinking and responding. You are not alone! Let's work together to build on your unique strengths and move toward the things that matter most to you.
Stephanie has over a decade of experience working with clients living with addiction, grief and mental health challenges.
Are you feeling stuck, repeating patterns in relationships despite best efforts to change? Maybe you are seeking recovery from addiction, or coping with the loss of a loved one. How do you function in a life that keeps going despite your great loss? You're overwhelmed and feel like you're spiraling out of control. It is difficult to sleep or function at work or home. I can help you make sense of what you are experiencing, so that you can learn new ways of thinking and responding. You are not alone! Let's work together to build on your unique strengths and move toward the things that matter most to you.
(819) 805-0346 View (819) 805-0346
Photo of Glenn Bekar, BSW, RN, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Glenn Bekar
Counsellor, BSW, RN, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I have over 20 years of experience in mental health and substance use services. My areas of competence include working with individuals in the LGBTQIA community, addiction, depression, anxiety, anger, and interpersonal violence. Having worked for over two decades as a frontline registered nurse, social worker and clinical counsellor in health care, I have an interest in working with individuals and front line workers in the health care field.
I have over 20 years of experience in mental health and substance use services. My areas of competence include working with individuals in the LGBTQIA community, addiction, depression, anxiety, anger, and interpersonal violence. Having worked for over two decades as a frontline registered nurse, social worker and clinical counsellor in health care, I have an interest in working with individuals and front line workers in the health care field.
(778) 924-0957 View (778) 924-0957
Photo of Pete Grinberg, BA, Bed, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Pete Grinberg
Counsellor, BA, Bed, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1V
I have worked many years with people from all walks of life and have experienced first hand relationship trauma, challenging family dynamics and the effects of addiction.
Life can brings unexpected changes: Relationships come to an end; There may be Infidelity, failure, and disappointments. For those who value spirituality and faith there is a loss of hope. Alcohol and/or drug issues take control. If any of this resonates with you it may be a good time to consider counselling. I have a passion for people who struggle with chronic anxiety, aging gracefully, faith issues, addictions, depression, and relationship strife. I also have good understanding of the complicated world of blended families, those who struggle with work/family balance, and men who struggle with gaming/porn addictions.
I have worked many years with people from all walks of life and have experienced first hand relationship trauma, challenging family dynamics and the effects of addiction.
Life can brings unexpected changes: Relationships come to an end; There may be Infidelity, failure, and disappointments. For those who value spirituality and faith there is a loss of hope. Alcohol and/or drug issues take control. If any of this resonates with you it may be a good time to consider counselling. I have a passion for people who struggle with chronic anxiety, aging gracefully, faith issues, addictions, depression, and relationship strife. I also have good understanding of the complicated world of blended families, those who struggle with work/family balance, and men who struggle with gaming/porn addictions.
(778) 745-5083 View (778) 745-5083
Photo of Ammy Kaur, MEd, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Ammy Kaur
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I utilize a trauma-informed practice, integrating elements from Cognitive behavior therapy for substance abuse, Bowen's family therapy and Emotion-focused couples therapy.
We are all struggling in our own ways through many challenges of life. The past is essential for understanding the present and shaping our future. I work collaboratively with Clients to discover their self-identity and navigate ways to explore their inner strengths.
I utilize a trauma-informed practice, integrating elements from Cognitive behavior therapy for substance abuse, Bowen's family therapy and Emotion-focused couples therapy.
We are all struggling in our own ways through many challenges of life. The past is essential for understanding the present and shaping our future. I work collaboratively with Clients to discover their self-identity and navigate ways to explore their inner strengths.
(587) 856-0603 View (587) 856-0603
Photo of Darrin J Taylor, BA, MTC, CCAC, CIP
Darrin J Taylor
BA, MTC, CCAC, CIP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1V
I am a Board Certified Interventionist, a Master Therapeutic Counsellor and a Canadian Certified Addiction Counsellor.
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.
I am a Board Certified Interventionist, a Master Therapeutic Counsellor and a Canadian Certified Addiction Counsellor.
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 Krista Giilck, RCC, MA, BSSc, Counsellor
Krista Giilck
Counsellor, RCC, MA, BSSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Is your life being negatively impacted by stress, substance abuse, relationship difficulties or trauma? Are you overwhelmed with feelings of sadness, worthlessness, shame, anger, anxiety, grief or guilt? If so, I can help. How you experience and respond to life’s challenges has a lot to do with how you interpret them and this is shaped by your past experiences. With a deeper understanding of (and compassion for) yourself and some tools, you will feel a sense of relief and strength to be able to deal with whatever has been troubling you. My goal is for you to feel seen, safe and heard so you feel supported every step of the way.
Is your life being negatively impacted by stress, substance abuse, relationship difficulties or trauma? Are you overwhelmed with feelings of sadness, worthlessness, shame, anger, anxiety, grief or guilt? If so, I can help. How you experience and respond to life’s challenges has a lot to do with how you interpret them and this is shaped by your past experiences. With a deeper understanding of (and compassion for) yourself and some tools, you will feel a sense of relief and strength to be able to deal with whatever has been troubling you. My goal is for you to feel seen, safe and heard so you feel supported every step of the way.
(431) 341-4104 View (431) 341-4104
Photo of Lindsay Nordlof, MC, Counsellor
Lindsay Nordlof
Counsellor, MC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Lindsay is a Registered Clinical Counsellor in the province of British Columbia and a Registered Psychologist in the province of Alberta. She provides comprehensive counselling to adolescents, adults, and couples affected by a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, substance use and addictions, and relationship difficulties.
Lindsay is a Registered Clinical Counsellor in the province of British Columbia and a Registered Psychologist in the province of Alberta. She provides comprehensive counselling to adolescents, adults, and couples affected by a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, substance use and addictions, and relationship difficulties.
(587) 602-2897 View (587) 602-2897
Photo of Carrie DeJong And Associates, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Carrie DeJong And Associates
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1P  (Online Only)
If you are experiencing substance misuse or addiction, therapy can help you identify and explore the life issues that have led to addiction.
We all desire to discover and experience the best parts of who we are. But sometimes we need help exploring those parts of ourselves where we experience struggle or pain. Whether you are experiencing the negative impacts of trauma, engaging in unhealthy behaviours, or seeking new tools to be the best version of yourself, therapy can make a difference. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with 20 years experience. My approach is informed by the mind-body connection, attachment theory, and the recent contributions of neuroscience. My goal is to provide the tools and support you need to rediscover the best parts of who you truly are.
If you are experiencing substance misuse or addiction, therapy can help you identify and explore the life issues that have led to addiction.
We all desire to discover and experience the best parts of who we are. But sometimes we need help exploring those parts of ourselves where we experience struggle or pain. Whether you are experiencing the negative impacts of trauma, engaging in unhealthy behaviours, or seeking new tools to be the best version of yourself, therapy can make a difference. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with 20 years experience. My approach is informed by the mind-body connection, attachment theory, and the recent contributions of neuroscience. My goal is to provide the tools and support you need to rediscover the best parts of who you truly are.
(604) 808-0806 View (604) 808-0806
Photo of Tracy Atkins, BSW, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Tracy Atkins
Counsellor, BSW, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y
Hello! My name is Tracy and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor who has been working with youth and adults with various mental health and substance use struggles for over fifteen years. I specialize in substance use, depression, anxiety, trauma, perfectionism, grief and low self-worth. Over the past five years I have also expanded my practice to include couples. Guiding my practice is a belief that behind these struggles are individuals with unique stories and lived experiences that connect to both suffering and strength. I strive to create a compassionate and safe space for exploring together experiences and desired change.
Hello! My name is Tracy and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor who has been working with youth and adults with various mental health and substance use struggles for over fifteen years. I specialize in substance use, depression, anxiety, trauma, perfectionism, grief and low self-worth. Over the past five years I have also expanded my practice to include couples. Guiding my practice is a belief that behind these struggles are individuals with unique stories and lived experiences that connect to both suffering and strength. I strive to create a compassionate and safe space for exploring together experiences and desired change.
(778) 400-1421 View (778) 400-1421
Photo of Annette Marie Adkin - PureInsights Counselling, RPC, Counsellor
PureInsights Counselling
Counsellor, RPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1W
experience working with addictions, couple and family counselling, attachment based parenting, managing/understanding anger, anxiety, self esteem etc.
Over 30 yrs. experience in helping people overcome their challenges and start to make choices about themselves and the life they want to be living. Have you been struggling with an addiction, anxiety or anger? Do you need to learn more about boundaries and self esteem? Feeling overwhelmed and not knowing how to cope in your current relationship? Nobody goes through life without having to face difficulties. I will create a safe, comfortable and supportive relationship, so we can explore your current struggles and learn new skills in overcoming/managing yourself, relationships and dealing with your circumstances in your life.
experience working with addictions, couple and family counselling, attachment based parenting, managing/understanding anger, anxiety, self esteem etc.
Over 30 yrs. experience in helping people overcome their challenges and start to make choices about themselves and the life they want to be living. Have you been struggling with an addiction, anxiety or anger? Do you need to learn more about boundaries and self esteem? Feeling overwhelmed and not knowing how to cope in your current relationship? Nobody goes through life without having to face difficulties. I will create a safe, comfortable and supportive relationship, so we can explore your current struggles and learn new skills in overcoming/managing yourself, relationships and dealing with your circumstances in your life.
(866) 832-8648 View (866) 832-8648
Photo of Steve Braun - Steve Braun Coaching & Counselling, CCRC, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor
Steve Braun Coaching & Counselling
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, CCRC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I specialize in addiction recovery and personal development counselling for high functioning individuals.
Are you successful in most areas of your life but alcohol or drugs are affecting your relationship, job or health? Maybe you don't require in-patient rehab or can't afford private treatment centres. Perhaps 12 step programs or time away from your job and family aren't options. Addiction treatment is not a ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution. As a counsellor utilizing a 'coach-approach', I provide uniquely tailored programs based on the individuals needs and wants. Whether you are looking to cut back, take a break, quit completely or maybe you’re not even sure if you have a problem, there is an option for you. Are you ready to take action?
I specialize in addiction recovery and personal development counselling for high functioning individuals.
Are you successful in most areas of your life but alcohol or drugs are affecting your relationship, job or health? Maybe you don't require in-patient rehab or can't afford private treatment centres. Perhaps 12 step programs or time away from your job and family aren't options. Addiction treatment is not a ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution. As a counsellor utilizing a 'coach-approach', I provide uniquely tailored programs based on the individuals needs and wants. Whether you are looking to cut back, take a break, quit completely or maybe you’re not even sure if you have a problem, there is an option for you. Are you ready to take action?
(778) 932-1978 View (778) 932-1978
Photo of Ryan Leiderman, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Ryan Leiderman
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y  (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Clients - I help clients dealing with issues like anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, substance misuse, and existential concerns.
Now Accepting New Clients - I help clients dealing with issues like anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, substance misuse, and existential concerns.
(855) 982-1214 View (855) 982-1214
Photo of Deanna Scammell, MAC, RCC, Counsellor
Deanna Scammell
Counsellor, MAC, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1X  (Online Only)
I enjoy supporting a wide range of individuals but am particularly passionate about supporting those who are highly sensitive, neurodivergent, have addiction issues, attachment trauma, individuals who want to deepen their spiritual connection and those who struggle with their self-esteem.
I offer virtual counselling that focuses on the exploration of past experiences through emotion-focused and existential therapies. I also use acceptance and commitment therapy, body-based interventions and psycho-education.
I enjoy supporting a wide range of individuals but am particularly passionate about supporting those who are highly sensitive, neurodivergent, have addiction issues, attachment trauma, individuals who want to deepen their spiritual connection and those who struggle with their self-esteem.
I offer virtual counselling that focuses on the exploration of past experiences through emotion-focused and existential therapies. I also use acceptance and commitment therapy, body-based interventions and psycho-education.
(506) 405-9656 View (506) 405-9656
Photo of Leia Newland, BA, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Leia Newland
Counsellor, BA, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1P
I specialize in trauma, systemic barriers, and addictions for both adults and youth.
Hi I'm Leia! I have experience helping others navigate trauma or distressing life experiences that are affecting their daily life and relationships. I believe connection is key for removing barriers and working through problems. I provide a non-judgmental safe space where together we can do just this. My experience includes working with youth and young adults navigating addiction, anxiety, depression, oppression, and trauma who are diverse in culture. My education in counselling is through Adler University. Through personal identity I am familiar with injury and disability culture.
I specialize in trauma, systemic barriers, and addictions for both adults and youth.
Hi I'm Leia! I have experience helping others navigate trauma or distressing life experiences that are affecting their daily life and relationships. I believe connection is key for removing barriers and working through problems. I provide a non-judgmental safe space where together we can do just this. My experience includes working with youth and young adults navigating addiction, anxiety, depression, oppression, and trauma who are diverse in culture. My education in counselling is through Adler University. Through personal identity I am familiar with injury and disability culture.
(236) 900-2107 View (236) 900-2107
Photo of Darren Curtis Gulka, RPN, BHSc, NNPBC, CNMBC, Psychiatric Nurse
Darren Curtis Gulka
Psychiatric Nurse, RPN, BHSc, NNPBC, CNMBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1X
Almost 3 decades has been spent gaining a diverse background in Mental Health & Substance Use. A career that includes Crisis Intervention, Psychiatric Emergencies, Acute Psychiatry, Case Management, and Comprehensive Assessments including medication reviews. Darren has been part of many multi-disciplinary teams, and has actively served on numerous Community Committees and Commissions as well as been a court appointed Mediator for the City of Calgary. His experience includes clinical leadership, educating and mentoring, group work, and individual supportive psychotherapy.
Almost 3 decades has been spent gaining a diverse background in Mental Health & Substance Use. A career that includes Crisis Intervention, Psychiatric Emergencies, Acute Psychiatry, Case Management, and Comprehensive Assessments including medication reviews. Darren has been part of many multi-disciplinary teams, and has actively served on numerous Community Committees and Commissions as well as been a court appointed Mediator for the City of Calgary. His experience includes clinical leadership, educating and mentoring, group work, and individual supportive psychotherapy.
(844) 619-6855 View (844) 619-6855
Photo of Troy Len Gergely - Second Chances Counselling, BA, CAC II, CIAC, CCTACP, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor
Second Chances Counselling
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, BA, CAC II, CIAC, CCTACP
Verified Verified
Kelowna, BC V1Y
I specialize in treatment of anxiety, depression and addictions and offer a genuine approach to helping you improve your psychological health.
At Second Chances Counselling we offer a comprehensive range of therapies that are tailored to your specific situation. I have been working with both youth and adults for over 18 years in helping them to understand and treat addiction and mental health issues. I have extensive experience with anxiety because I have personally suffered with this disorder. I understand how debilitating the symptoms of anxiety can be to deal with in everyday life and believe because of this I am uniquely positioned to help you to overcome it.
I specialize in treatment of anxiety, depression and addictions and offer a genuine approach to helping you improve your psychological health.
At Second Chances Counselling we offer a comprehensive range of therapies that are tailored to your specific situation. I have been working with both youth and adults for over 18 years in helping them to understand and treat addiction and mental health issues. I have extensive experience with anxiety because I have personally suffered with this disorder. I understand how debilitating the symptoms of anxiety can be to deal with in everyday life and believe because of this I am uniquely positioned to help you to overcome it.
(833) 377-0768 View (833) 377-0768
Photo of Heather Mitchell, MCP, RCC, Counsellor
Heather Mitchell
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1P
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!
(778) 601-6699 View (778) 601-6699
Photo of Brianne Flaherty - Brianne Flaherty Counselling Services, RPC-C, CCAC, CCTP, Counsellor
Brianne Flaherty Counselling Services
Counsellor, RPC-C, CCAC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kelowna, BC V1Y  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Professional Counsellor - Candidate, and hold Certifications as a Canadian Addiction Counsellor and Clinical Trauma Professional.
Brianne Flaherty Counselling Services is a private practice facilitating virtual sessions. Specializing in addiction recovery and mental wellness I create a safe space for you to explore your emotions, develop coping strategies and build resilience as you navigate through life's challenges. Through a holistic approach that addresses both physical and psychological aspects of addiction and mental health, we address underlying issues and create a solid foundation for long-term recovery and mental well-being. I offer unwavering compassion, support and guidance as you embark on your healing and self-discovery journey.
I am a Registered Professional Counsellor - Candidate, and hold Certifications as a Canadian Addiction Counsellor and Clinical Trauma Professional.
Brianne Flaherty Counselling Services is a private practice facilitating virtual sessions. Specializing in addiction recovery and mental wellness I create a safe space for you to explore your emotions, develop coping strategies and build resilience as you navigate through life's challenges. Through a holistic approach that addresses both physical and psychological aspects of addiction and mental health, we address underlying issues and create a solid foundation for long-term recovery and mental well-being. I offer unwavering compassion, support and guidance as you embark on your healing and self-discovery journey.
(249) 496-1956 View (249) 496-1956

See more therapy options for Kelowna

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.