Addiction Therapists in Surrey, BC

Photo of Jacqueline Nakamura, Counsellor, MA, RCC
Jacqueline Nakamura
Counsellor, MA, RCC
2 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3S
Together, we'll work to shift behaviours that no longer serve you, and develop practical, personalized tools for managing stress, anxiety, substance use, depression, or effects of trauma experiences.
My approach is grounded in compassion and evidence-based practices. I draw from DBT and CBT to help identify unhelpful patterns and build emotion regulation skills. I am also trained in EMDR, an effective approach for processing trauma and reducing the emotional impact of difficult past experiences.
Together, we'll work to shift behaviours that no longer serve you, and develop practical, personalized tools for managing stress, anxiety, substance use, depression, or effects of trauma experiences.
My approach is grounded in compassion and evidence-based practices. I draw from DBT and CBT to help identify unhelpful patterns and build emotion regulation skills. I am also trained in EMDR, an effective approach for processing trauma and reducing the emotional impact of difficult past experiences.
(867) 731-0307 View (867) 731-0307
Photo of Lauren Henneberry, Counsellor, RCC, PMH-C
Lauren Henneberry
Counsellor, RCC, PMH-C
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V4N
Lauren also works with individuals struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, substance use, self-harm, body image and self-esteem related concerns.
Sometimes our pain can become distracting, confusing and overwhelming; making it difficult to appreciate our worth and create meaning in our lives. Lauren considers it an honour to create a space for individuals to experience healing. Growth is more likely to occur when individuals are provided with respect, care, genuineness, and empathy—all of which Lauren strives to provide.
Lauren also works with individuals struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, substance use, self-harm, body image and self-esteem related concerns.
Sometimes our pain can become distracting, confusing and overwhelming; making it difficult to appreciate our worth and create meaning in our lives. Lauren considers it an honour to create a space for individuals to experience healing. Growth is more likely to occur when individuals are provided with respect, care, genuineness, and empathy—all of which Lauren strives to provide.
(506) 497-5978 View (506) 497-5978
Photo of Saloni Shah, Counsellor
Saloni Shah
Counsellor
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m a Registered Clinical Counsellor based in Vancouver, working with adults experiencing anxiety, grief and loss, self-esteem issues, relationship stress, caregiver burnout, addiction, eating concerns, and major life or cultural transitions.
I take a trauma-informed and collaborative approach to therapy. I believe that healing looks different for everyone, and I aim to create a space where you feel safe, heard, and understood. I draw from Internal Family Systems (IFS), Adlerian therapy, and integrate creative tools like art and music when it feels right.
I’m a Registered Clinical Counsellor based in Vancouver, working with adults experiencing anxiety, grief and loss, self-esteem issues, relationship stress, caregiver burnout, addiction, eating concerns, and major life or cultural transitions.
I take a trauma-informed and collaborative approach to therapy. I believe that healing looks different for everyone, and I aim to create a space where you feel safe, heard, and understood. I draw from Internal Family Systems (IFS), Adlerian therapy, and integrate creative tools like art and music when it feels right.
(249) 315-0504 View (249) 315-0504
Photo of Kuldip Gill - Kuldip Counselling & Consulting Services, Counsellor, BA, MEd, RCC
Kuldip Counselling & Consulting Services
Counsellor, BA, MEd, RCC
Surrey, BC V3S
I started my career in addiction where I was a Mental Health and Addictions Counsellor at FHA for 7 years.
There are many times in one person's life where one seeks support and information with resolving personal and psychological difficulties. Seeking counselling at this time will help break isolation and improve coping more effectively and quickly. Finding a good fit with someone is important to the success of the journey. I am trained in Feedback Informed Treatment (FIT) where a client directs the counselling relationship by the feedback they provide. I believe in the right FIT and relationship between client and counsellor to be of great importance in helping a client in counselling.
I started my career in addiction where I was a Mental Health and Addictions Counsellor at FHA for 7 years.
There are many times in one person's life where one seeks support and information with resolving personal and psychological difficulties. Seeking counselling at this time will help break isolation and improve coping more effectively and quickly. Finding a good fit with someone is important to the success of the journey. I am trained in Feedback Informed Treatment (FIT) where a client directs the counselling relationship by the feedback they provide. I believe in the right FIT and relationship between client and counsellor to be of great importance in helping a client in counselling.
(778) 488-0611 View (778) 488-0611
Photo of Afsah Ahmad, Counsellor, RCC
Afsah Ahmad
Counsellor, RCC
Surrey, BC V3T
I help with anxiety, depression, trauma, panic attacks, overthinking, low self-esteem, burnout, grief, relationship issues, life transitions, emotional overwhelm, sadness, anger, feeling stuck and addiction.
Life can be overwhelming at times, and reaching out for support is a courageous first step toward healing and growth. I’m here to walk alongside you on that journey. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, or navigating the aftermath of trauma or life transitions, I offer a space where you can be fully seen and supported. My approach is compassionate, trauma-informed, client-centered, and grounded in evidence-based practices. I believe that every person has the inner strength and wisdom to heal, and therapy can be a powerful space to reconnect with that resilience.
I help with anxiety, depression, trauma, panic attacks, overthinking, low self-esteem, burnout, grief, relationship issues, life transitions, emotional overwhelm, sadness, anger, feeling stuck and addiction.
Life can be overwhelming at times, and reaching out for support is a courageous first step toward healing and growth. I’m here to walk alongside you on that journey. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, or navigating the aftermath of trauma or life transitions, I offer a space where you can be fully seen and supported. My approach is compassionate, trauma-informed, client-centered, and grounded in evidence-based practices. I believe that every person has the inner strength and wisdom to heal, and therapy can be a powerful space to reconnect with that resilience.
(249) 802-7775 View (249) 802-7775
Photo of Romana Hrivnakova, Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Romana Hrivnakova
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
With over 15 years of experience in addiction, trauma, and mental health, I have worked in various settings, including private practice, homeless organizations, and community addiction services both in Canada and abroad.
Unresolved trauma, attachment injuries, and old emotional wounds from our past create a fractured foundation within us. These issues can impact our sense of self, leave us feeling empty inside, and lead us to believe there is something fundamentally wrong with us. Some symptoms we experience as adults, such as excessive self-blame, addictive behaviors, anxiety, depression, a constant need to please others, sensitivity to rejection, and a tendency to feel overwhelmed, are often rooted in what was missing during our childhood. I invite you to explore the part of yourself that was hurt and still carries this trauma and suffering.
With over 15 years of experience in addiction, trauma, and mental health, I have worked in various settings, including private practice, homeless organizations, and community addiction services both in Canada and abroad.
Unresolved trauma, attachment injuries, and old emotional wounds from our past create a fractured foundation within us. These issues can impact our sense of self, leave us feeling empty inside, and lead us to believe there is something fundamentally wrong with us. Some symptoms we experience as adults, such as excessive self-blame, addictive behaviors, anxiety, depression, a constant need to please others, sensitivity to rejection, and a tendency to feel overwhelmed, are often rooted in what was missing during our childhood. I invite you to explore the part of yourself that was hurt and still carries this trauma and suffering.
(437) 800-1976 View (437) 800-1976
Photo of Tracy Wilkins, Counsellor, MA, CCC
Tracy Wilkins
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Surrey, BC V3S
Tracy is dedicated to guiding youth, adults, couples, and families towards harmony and a better quality of life. Drawing from 24 years of expertise, she has supported numerous individuals and couples through challenging life transitions including divorce, addiction, trauma, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, and anxiety. She also specializes in providing support to families and individuals navigating Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). She provides a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. Her individualized approach ensures that each client receives tailored support that meets their specific needs.
Tracy is dedicated to guiding youth, adults, couples, and families towards harmony and a better quality of life. Drawing from 24 years of expertise, she has supported numerous individuals and couples through challenging life transitions including divorce, addiction, trauma, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, and anxiety. She also specializes in providing support to families and individuals navigating Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). She provides a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. Her individualized approach ensures that each client receives tailored support that meets their specific needs.
(438) 816-9763 View (438) 816-9763
Photo of Frances J Jans - Pink Sky Counselling, Counsellor, RTC
Pink Sky Counselling
Counsellor, RTC
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V4P
Being faced with and healing from my own adversity is the main reason I counsel those who suffer from the same trauma, addiction and life issues.
Did you know that any trauma you may have experienced growing up shapes how you conduct yourself in the present? Is now the time to repair conflictual relationships, manage your anger, recover from addictions, or heal from your trauma, PTSD, or Gaslighting? There are effective treatment modalities that I offer within empathetic and compassionate exploration. I can help you reach your goals and change the outcomes of your challenges. Your decision to ask for help is the most courageous step forward on your recovery path and I will be here with you every step of the way.
Being faced with and healing from my own adversity is the main reason I counsel those who suffer from the same trauma, addiction and life issues.
Did you know that any trauma you may have experienced growing up shapes how you conduct yourself in the present? Is now the time to repair conflictual relationships, manage your anger, recover from addictions, or heal from your trauma, PTSD, or Gaslighting? There are effective treatment modalities that I offer within empathetic and compassionate exploration. I can help you reach your goals and change the outcomes of your challenges. Your decision to ask for help is the most courageous step forward on your recovery path and I will be here with you every step of the way.
(778) 488-8691 View (778) 488-8691
Photo of Anil Baines, Counsellor, BSc, MA, RCC
Anil Baines
Counsellor, BSc, MA, RCC
Surrey, BC V3Z
Whether it is anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, addiction, or work stress, I will help you to assess what are the presenting obstacles and what may be potential solutions to get you to where you want to be.
How did I get here? and Why am I feeling this way? may be questions that you have been faced with lately. I work with clients to find creative solutions to achieve happier, healthier and more fulfilled lives. I have been working professionally with individuals, couples and families for the past 20 years in the areas of conflict resolution, emotional regulation, mindfulness and healthy attachment.
Whether it is anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, addiction, or work stress, I will help you to assess what are the presenting obstacles and what may be potential solutions to get you to where you want to be.
How did I get here? and Why am I feeling this way? may be questions that you have been faced with lately. I work with clients to find creative solutions to achieve happier, healthier and more fulfilled lives. I have been working professionally with individuals, couples and families for the past 20 years in the areas of conflict resolution, emotional regulation, mindfulness and healthy attachment.
(855) 636-9935 View (855) 636-9935
Photo of Rahul Minhas - On My Own Side: Counselling Services, Counsellor, MEd, RCC, Author
On My Own Side: Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, Author
2 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3S
Together, we create a space of trust and collaboration to navigate issues like addiction, trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief and loss.
Hello and a warm welcome! I'm Rahul Minhas, a Registered Clinical Counsellor and EMDR therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges. I specialize in supporting youth, adults, families, and first responders in areas such as addictions, depression, grief and loss, anxiety, PTSD, relationship challenges, and more. In addition to this, I offer family counselling, drawing from my experience as a school counsellor for the Surrey School District.
Together, we create a space of trust and collaboration to navigate issues like addiction, trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief and loss.
Hello and a warm welcome! I'm Rahul Minhas, a Registered Clinical Counsellor and EMDR therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges. I specialize in supporting youth, adults, families, and first responders in areas such as addictions, depression, grief and loss, anxiety, PTSD, relationship challenges, and more. In addition to this, I offer family counselling, drawing from my experience as a school counsellor for the Surrey School District.
(604) 716-3166 View (604) 716-3166
Photo of John Nweke, Counsellor, MA, RCC
John Nweke
Counsellor, MA, RCC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I have worked with clients (youth and adults) experiencing a variety of difficulties, with emphasis on grief, substance use, anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship concerns.
Life presents many challenges to the various domains of wellbeing. The stressors can manifest through negative or difficult thoughts, overwhelming emotions, and ruptures in our relationships with others and our selves. As a consequence, we may struggle with harmful or addictive behaviors, or overly critical self-talk, which may lead to anxiety, depression, burnout, chronic stress, and many other difficulties. Unfortunately, in the midst of overwhelm we often feel disconnected and isolated from those in our lives. I aim to create a supportive empathetic therapeutic relationship that encourages the growth and wellbeing of each client.
I have worked with clients (youth and adults) experiencing a variety of difficulties, with emphasis on grief, substance use, anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship concerns.
Life presents many challenges to the various domains of wellbeing. The stressors can manifest through negative or difficult thoughts, overwhelming emotions, and ruptures in our relationships with others and our selves. As a consequence, we may struggle with harmful or addictive behaviors, or overly critical self-talk, which may lead to anxiety, depression, burnout, chronic stress, and many other difficulties. Unfortunately, in the midst of overwhelm we often feel disconnected and isolated from those in our lives. I aim to create a supportive empathetic therapeutic relationship that encourages the growth and wellbeing of each client.
(431) 340-7749 View (431) 340-7749
Photo of Jas Hundal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RCC, RCSW, MSW, BSW
Jas Hundal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RCC, RCSW, MSW, BSW
2 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3S
I have over 18 years experience working with individuals suffering from a variety of issues including mental health concerns, substance use, domestic violence and anger management.
Jas is a Registered Clinical Social Worker with the BC College of Social Workers, Ontario College of Social Workers and a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. I believe that a counselor is a guide in a clients journey of healing and self-awareness. My practice is rooted in a holistic approach and I utilize techniques that integrate physical, mental, social, emotional and spiritual health. I am a Registered Clinical Social Worker and Registered Clinical Counsellor. I fluently speak Punjabi & English.
I have over 18 years experience working with individuals suffering from a variety of issues including mental health concerns, substance use, domestic violence and anger management.
Jas is a Registered Clinical Social Worker with the BC College of Social Workers, Ontario College of Social Workers and a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. I believe that a counselor is a guide in a clients journey of healing and self-awareness. My practice is rooted in a holistic approach and I utilize techniques that integrate physical, mental, social, emotional and spiritual health. I am a Registered Clinical Social Worker and Registered Clinical Counsellor. I fluently speak Punjabi & English.
(778) 767-2189 View (778) 767-2189
Photo of Andy Resham Bhatti - Andy Bhatti Interventions & Addiction Services, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, CCAC
Andy Bhatti Interventions & Addiction Services
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, CCAC
Surrey, BC V3R
Andy works with families that have loved ones stuck in alcoholism or addiction.
Andy's personal experience with living in addiction and recovery gives him the compassion, understanding, and ability to connect with addicts and their families. Andy believes it's important for addicts to know during the intervention that he is in recovery. Andys interventions are caring , loving , compassionate and successful. Interventions save lives.
Andy works with families that have loved ones stuck in alcoholism or addiction.
Andy's personal experience with living in addiction and recovery gives him the compassion, understanding, and ability to connect with addicts and their families. Andy believes it's important for addicts to know during the intervention that he is in recovery. Andys interventions are caring , loving , compassionate and successful. Interventions save lives.
(604) 670-7936 View (604) 670-7936
Photo of Mike Mathers - Mike Mathers - Wellness Evolved Counselling, Counsellor, MSc, MA, RCC
Mike Mathers - Wellness Evolved Counselling
Counsellor, MSc, MA, RCC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have a passion for helping individuals and families impacted by substance use disorders as well as for supporting first responders dealing with operational stress injuries.
Most importantly, I don't believe in telling people what to do. Instead I believe in helping people get to where they want to be with their quality of life. Depression, anxiety, trauma and addiction often involve loss and I believe that people can most effectively recover from these challenges when they have the proper support to help make sense of loss.
I have a passion for helping individuals and families impacted by substance use disorders as well as for supporting first responders dealing with operational stress injuries.
Most importantly, I don't believe in telling people what to do. Instead I believe in helping people get to where they want to be with their quality of life. Depression, anxiety, trauma and addiction often involve loss and I believe that people can most effectively recover from these challenges when they have the proper support to help make sense of loss.
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Photo of Rob Hammond, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, ICADC, CCAC, SAP
Rob Hammond
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, ICADC, CCAC, SAP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Addiction is a complex and challenging battle, but it's important to remember that recovery is not only possible but within reach for everyone.
As someone who has personally experienced addiction in my own life, I am deeply passionate about helping others who are struggling with addiction to find the support and resources they need to overcome their challenges.
Addiction is a complex and challenging battle, but it's important to remember that recovery is not only possible but within reach for everyone.
As someone who has personally experienced addiction in my own life, I am deeply passionate about helping others who are struggling with addiction to find the support and resources they need to overcome their challenges.
(579) 589-3348 View (579) 589-3348
Photo of Sam Dubetz, Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
Sam Dubetz
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3S
Some of my focuses include trans affirming practice / working with 2SLGBTQ+ communities, substance use, anxiety, depression, ADHD, suicidal thoughts, psychosis, chronic illness, men (or anyone) burdened by anger, people who have been labelled "treatment resistant".
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Please contact me for a free 20 minute consult. So many people struggle with their concerns alone, whether they are in fact experiencing isolation or whether they are surrounded by other people. Some worry they might burden others, some fear what others might think, and some struggle to believe they are worthy or deserving of support. As a counsellor and social worker, I firmly believe we all need substantial supports in our lives. Whether the issues you're facing feel small or insurmountable, I strive to offer a space where you can share your experiences without feeling judged or ashamed.
Some of my focuses include trans affirming practice / working with 2SLGBTQ+ communities, substance use, anxiety, depression, ADHD, suicidal thoughts, psychosis, chronic illness, men (or anyone) burdened by anger, people who have been labelled "treatment resistant".
Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Please contact me for a free 20 minute consult. So many people struggle with their concerns alone, whether they are in fact experiencing isolation or whether they are surrounded by other people. Some worry they might burden others, some fear what others might think, and some struggle to believe they are worthy or deserving of support. As a counsellor and social worker, I firmly believe we all need substantial supports in our lives. Whether the issues you're facing feel small or insurmountable, I strive to offer a space where you can share your experiences without feeling judged or ashamed.
(604) 706-5052 View (604) 706-5052
Photo of Johnson Hou, Counsellor, MA, MSc, RCC, CCC
Johnson Hou
Counsellor, MA, MSc, RCC, CCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether grappling with anxiety, depression, addiction, OCD, or navigating relationship dynamics and conflicts, I meet clients where they are with empathy, compassion, and cultural humility.
I believe in the power of collaboration and empowerment, working alongside clients to co-create personalized strategies and interventions that align with their values, strengths, and goals. I am determined to supporting clients in their journey towards self-discovery, growth, and meaning finding.
Whether grappling with anxiety, depression, addiction, OCD, or navigating relationship dynamics and conflicts, I meet clients where they are with empathy, compassion, and cultural humility.
I believe in the power of collaboration and empowerment, working alongside clients to co-create personalized strategies and interventions that align with their values, strengths, and goals. I am determined to supporting clients in their journey towards self-discovery, growth, and meaning finding.
(778) 776-3098 View (778) 776-3098
Photo of Tajinder (Tj) Rai, Counsellor, MC, RCC
Tajinder (Tj) Rai
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Surrey, BC V3S
I have worked extensively with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, anger, and relationship issues.
Are you or your child feeling Stuck? Depressed? Anxious? Frustrated? Overwhelmed? Do you want things to change or be different? You are not alone. Many people have faced situations that have challenged them to the point where they feel that they cannot move forward. It may be difficult to even understand what is truly happening. Everyone has the capacity for change, even you! Together we can work through your concerns and issues and help you reach your ultimate goal of moving forward in your life.
I have worked extensively with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, anger, and relationship issues.
Are you or your child feeling Stuck? Depressed? Anxious? Frustrated? Overwhelmed? Do you want things to change or be different? You are not alone. Many people have faced situations that have challenged them to the point where they feel that they cannot move forward. It may be difficult to even understand what is truly happening. Everyone has the capacity for change, even you! Together we can work through your concerns and issues and help you reach your ultimate goal of moving forward in your life.
(604) 649-3447 View (604) 649-3447
Photo of Shauntal Padda, Counsellor, BA, MCP, RCC
Shauntal Padda
Counsellor, BA, MCP, RCC
2 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3S
I specialize in areas like emotional regulation, anger management, substance use, borderline personality disorder, relationship challenges, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and couples therapy.
As a South Asian therapist, I offer a holistic, culturally sensitive approach, integrating trauma-informed care to ensure you feel heard, respected, and understood. My aim is to help you reconnect with yourself, build emotional resilience, and find belonging within your community.
I specialize in areas like emotional regulation, anger management, substance use, borderline personality disorder, relationship challenges, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and couples therapy.
As a South Asian therapist, I offer a holistic, culturally sensitive approach, integrating trauma-informed care to ensure you feel heard, respected, and understood. My aim is to help you reconnect with yourself, build emotional resilience, and find belonging within your community.
(438) 794-8785 View (438) 794-8785
Photo of Jas Sandhu, Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC
Jas Sandhu
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC
Surrey, BC V3S
Jas has over a decade of clinical experience and expertise in integrating holistic wellness with contemporary psychotherapy in the treatment of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger, stress, substance use and relationship issues.
Are you feeling unsure, overwhelmed, or alone in your life situation? Is your mental, emotional, physical, or social wellness being compromised by stress and unhealthy coping? Therapeutic counselling offers a compassionate and supportive space where you can press pause on the daily grind and engage in a personal growth journey to identify, manage and overcome the obstacles blocking you from living a satisfying and successful life.
Jas has over a decade of clinical experience and expertise in integrating holistic wellness with contemporary psychotherapy in the treatment of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger, stress, substance use and relationship issues.
Are you feeling unsure, overwhelmed, or alone in your life situation? Is your mental, emotional, physical, or social wellness being compromised by stress and unhealthy coping? Therapeutic counselling offers a compassionate and supportive space where you can press pause on the daily grind and engage in a personal growth journey to identify, manage and overcome the obstacles blocking you from living a satisfying and successful life.
(236) 302-4252 View (236) 302-4252

See more therapy options for Surrey

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.