Addiction Therapists in Ottawa, ON

Photo of Mary Joy Ecijan, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP(Q)
Mary Joy Ecijan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP(Q)
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in helping individuals struggling with high performance pressures, emotional dysregulation, and substance abuse issues.
New Clients Welcome! - Evening/Weekend/Day Sessions - Struggling with anxiety, depression, pressure, stress, or conflict in important relationships can feel very isolating, lonely, and hopeless. You may experience burnout, feel lost or stuck, or even turn to unhelpful ways of dealing with unwanted stress or emotions. This often takes a toll on your health, mood, relationships, and overall functioning. I want you to know that you are not alone - I can help. As a dedicated, caring professional I strive to understand and support you in addressing your unique issues, history and experience, focusing on the goals most important to you.
I specialize in helping individuals struggling with high performance pressures, emotional dysregulation, and substance abuse issues.
New Clients Welcome! - Evening/Weekend/Day Sessions - Struggling with anxiety, depression, pressure, stress, or conflict in important relationships can feel very isolating, lonely, and hopeless. You may experience burnout, feel lost or stuck, or even turn to unhelpful ways of dealing with unwanted stress or emotions. This often takes a toll on your health, mood, relationships, and overall functioning. I want you to know that you are not alone - I can help. As a dedicated, caring professional I strive to understand and support you in addressing your unique issues, history and experience, focusing on the goals most important to you.
(343) 512-0306 View (343) 512-0306
Photo of Jenn Snell, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Jenn Snell
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I have over 7 years experience working in the counselling field and I am qualified to work with adult individuals dealing with substance use and gambling addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and relationship issues.
Navigating life can be challenging and overwhelming. We do the best we can, and that can be exhausting. We can feel alone with our problems and potentially criticized for our current situations. What we want is to be happy, to be free from our daily struggles, and to be back in control of our own life’s journey. With someone there as support, we do not need to tackle these issues on our own. Having a non-judgmental, safe space to talk about and process our thoughts can make all the difference. You are the expert of your own life, and together we will work toward reaching your goals.
I have over 7 years experience working in the counselling field and I am qualified to work with adult individuals dealing with substance use and gambling addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and relationship issues.
Navigating life can be challenging and overwhelming. We do the best we can, and that can be exhausting. We can feel alone with our problems and potentially criticized for our current situations. What we want is to be happy, to be free from our daily struggles, and to be back in control of our own life’s journey. With someone there as support, we do not need to tackle these issues on our own. Having a non-judgmental, safe space to talk about and process our thoughts can make all the difference. You are the expert of your own life, and together we will work toward reaching your goals.
(343) 312-6874 View (343) 312-6874
Photo of Stephanie Kaczer, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Stephanie Kaczer
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2E
Stephanie specializes in supporting clients with substance use, anxiety, ADHD and borderline personality disorder.
There are times when we all need support. Stephanie will approach your therapy and treatment with a focus on the mind body connection. She sees establishing safety in our nervous system as a core component of treating stress and anxiety. Stephanie has been working in mental health in hospitals, community clinics, and research labs for almost a decade. She creates a safe space, allowing you to be your authentic self. She believes the therapeutic relationship is a critical component of the success of therapy.
Stephanie specializes in supporting clients with substance use, anxiety, ADHD and borderline personality disorder.
There are times when we all need support. Stephanie will approach your therapy and treatment with a focus on the mind body connection. She sees establishing safety in our nervous system as a core component of treating stress and anxiety. Stephanie has been working in mental health in hospitals, community clinics, and research labs for almost a decade. She creates a safe space, allowing you to be your authentic self. She believes the therapeutic relationship is a critical component of the success of therapy.
(343) 307-5965 View (343) 307-5965
Photo of Shontelle Prokipcak, Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW, CCAC, CCS-AC
Shontelle Prokipcak
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW, CCAC, CCS-AC
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2E
I have been providing collaborative mental health and addiction services for youth, adolescents and adults in the Ottawa Region for the past 18 years.
I specialize in both mental health and addiction issues. Trauma therapy, addictions, anxiety, depression are all common challenges that I help my clients work their way through. Quite often these issues are combined with relationship problems and we create a holistic and strengths based treatment plan together.
I have been providing collaborative mental health and addiction services for youth, adolescents and adults in the Ottawa Region for the past 18 years.
I specialize in both mental health and addiction issues. Trauma therapy, addictions, anxiety, depression are all common challenges that I help my clients work their way through. Quite often these issues are combined with relationship problems and we create a holistic and strengths based treatment plan together.
(343) 312-6483 View (343) 312-6483
Photo of Jason Pollick, Registered Social Worker, BSW, MA, MDiv, RSW
Jason Pollick
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MA, MDiv, RSW
5 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
I support individuals, couples and groups experiencing substance use issues, anxiety/depression, PTSD, ADHD, relationship issues, major life transitions and spiritual concerns.
Are you experiencing obstacles in your life that are preventing you from feeling fulfilled, content and at peace? Are you looking for a safe, non-judgmental space to share your struggles? Are you looking to share these experiences with a trustworthy, accomplished and experienced therapist? I can help.
I support individuals, couples and groups experiencing substance use issues, anxiety/depression, PTSD, ADHD, relationship issues, major life transitions and spiritual concerns.
Are you experiencing obstacles in your life that are preventing you from feeling fulfilled, content and at peace? Are you looking for a safe, non-judgmental space to share your struggles? Are you looking to share these experiences with a trustworthy, accomplished and experienced therapist? I can help.
(343) 342-0312 View (343) 342-0312
Photo of John D Robertson - John Robertson Counselling Services, Registered Psychotherapist, RP
John Robertson Counselling Services
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Ottawa, ON K1S
Waitlist for new clients
Whether it’s addiction based issues, such as substance use, gambling and sex, or emotional issues from our journey as young children, many of these issues can be concurrent with many mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, etc.
I have worked in the counselling field since 2002, using a variety of client centered approaches including Systemic-Attachment based Therapy, C.B.T, DBT, M.I. I have a well established referral network. I continually engage in professional development to build my skills and enhance my ability to serve my clients, including several graduate level courses
Whether it’s addiction based issues, such as substance use, gambling and sex, or emotional issues from our journey as young children, many of these issues can be concurrent with many mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, etc.
I have worked in the counselling field since 2002, using a variety of client centered approaches including Systemic-Attachment based Therapy, C.B.T, DBT, M.I. I have a well established referral network. I continually engage in professional development to build my skills and enhance my ability to serve my clients, including several graduate level courses
View
Photo of Robert Anderson, Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, RP
Robert Anderson
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, RP
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2C
I provide a comfortable space for you to learn how to manage your thoughts, emotions and tension in your body, while also helping you move on from substance use.
Does your body feel tense and does your mind often feel like it’s racing? Are you startled by sounds, people’s voices or often feel like you are caught off guard? The situations that we go through often leave an impression in our minds and bodies. These can leave us feeling uncomfortable in our own bodies, being hard to relax, calm our minds and impacting our relationships and life experience. These can also cause us too seek out substances that relieve our emotional pain causing unforeseen issues.
I provide a comfortable space for you to learn how to manage your thoughts, emotions and tension in your body, while also helping you move on from substance use.
Does your body feel tense and does your mind often feel like it’s racing? Are you startled by sounds, people’s voices or often feel like you are caught off guard? The situations that we go through often leave an impression in our minds and bodies. These can leave us feeling uncomfortable in our own bodies, being hard to relax, calm our minds and impacting our relationships and life experience. These can also cause us too seek out substances that relieve our emotional pain causing unforeseen issues.
(343) 304-5601 View (343) 304-5601
Photo of Nick Delroy, Registered Psychotherapist
Nick Delroy
Registered Psychotherapist
Ottawa, ON K2H
Substance use, trauma and other mental health issues can do horrible damage to someone's quality of life.
Authentic therapeutic connection changes things and it forms the core of my practice. I am a client-centered therapist with extensive experience counselling adults and teenagers with substance use, trauma, anger, anxiety, and depression problems. I like to think I have a warm and engaging counselling style that respects where you are at without expectations.
Substance use, trauma and other mental health issues can do horrible damage to someone's quality of life.
Authentic therapeutic connection changes things and it forms the core of my practice. I am a client-centered therapist with extensive experience counselling adults and teenagers with substance use, trauma, anger, anxiety, and depression problems. I like to think I have a warm and engaging counselling style that respects where you are at without expectations.
(613) 383-5469 View (613) 383-5469
Photo of Amanda Neilson, Registered Social Worker, CYW, BSW, MSW, RSW
Amanda Neilson
Registered Social Worker, CYW, BSW, MSW, RSW
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Z
For over 25 years, I have specialized in treating people with problematic substance use, and other related mental health issues, including trauma and chronic stress.
Changing your relationship with alcohol and/or other drugs can often be challenging and hard to sustain. I provide individual therapy designed to support you in being able to reduce the negative impacts of substance use, and increase your quality of life. The right way to make meaningful change is the way that works best for you.
For over 25 years, I have specialized in treating people with problematic substance use, and other related mental health issues, including trauma and chronic stress.
Changing your relationship with alcohol and/or other drugs can often be challenging and hard to sustain. I provide individual therapy designed to support you in being able to reduce the negative impacts of substance use, and increase your quality of life. The right way to make meaningful change is the way that works best for you.
(343) 304-6325 View (343) 304-6325
Photo of Fabio Rancevas, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, BA
Fabio Rancevas
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, BA
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Y
I support individuals facing trauma, addiction, burnout, emotional overwhelm, and relationship issues — including Highly Sensitive Persons (HSP) and men in emotional transition.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward in life or relationships? I offer a compassionate, professional space for healing, clarity, and growth. I’m a father of five daughters and know firsthand how complex, joyful, and sometimes chaotic life can be. My clients often tell me they feel truly seen and heard in our sessions — and that’s what I aim for: deep, human connection.
I support individuals facing trauma, addiction, burnout, emotional overwhelm, and relationship issues — including Highly Sensitive Persons (HSP) and men in emotional transition.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward in life or relationships? I offer a compassionate, professional space for healing, clarity, and growth. I’m a father of five daughters and know firsthand how complex, joyful, and sometimes chaotic life can be. My clients often tell me they feel truly seen and heard in our sessions — and that’s what I aim for: deep, human connection.
(343) 801-1465 View (343) 801-1465
Photo of Jeff Latimer - Jeff Latimer - Centre for Hope and Recovery, Registered Social Worker, PhD, MSW, RSW
Jeff Latimer - Centre for Hope and Recovery
Registered Social Worker, PhD, MSW, RSW
Ottawa, ON K1G
My current practice is focused on helping men address trauma, addiction, problematic sexual behaviour, and other challenging life circumstances including divorce, infidelity, and depression/anxiety.
I am a registered social worker and psychotherapist with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers and my services are covered by most insurance companies across Canada.
My current practice is focused on helping men address trauma, addiction, problematic sexual behaviour, and other challenging life circumstances including divorce, infidelity, and depression/anxiety.
I am a registered social worker and psychotherapist with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers and my services are covered by most insurance companies across Canada.
(343) 598-9460 View (343) 598-9460
Photo of Arktos Canada - Arktos Wellness Services Canada ADHD Team, Registered Social Worker, MSW, CCC, RCC, ACC
Arktos Wellness Services Canada ADHD Team
Registered Social Worker, MSW, CCC, RCC, ACC
Online Only
They seek a safe space to be their authentic selves while addressing challenges like anxiety, emotional regulation, organization, budgeting, substance use, depression, and procrastination.
Our virtual clinic consists of Registered Social Workers, Psychotherapists, Registered Clinical Counsellors, Nutritionists and ADHD Coaches. We believe in a team approach that uses all of our specialties, knowing that our clients are dealing with more than just one isolated issue. We provide 1:1 counselling/therapy/coaching as well as groups and workshops
They seek a safe space to be their authentic selves while addressing challenges like anxiety, emotional regulation, organization, budgeting, substance use, depression, and procrastination.
Our virtual clinic consists of Registered Social Workers, Psychotherapists, Registered Clinical Counsellors, Nutritionists and ADHD Coaches. We believe in a team approach that uses all of our specialties, knowing that our clients are dealing with more than just one isolated issue. We provide 1:1 counselling/therapy/coaching as well as groups and workshops
(249) 490-5992 View (249) 490-5992
Photo of Martin Pleau, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Martin Pleau
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2H
Do you struggle with addiction, low self-esteem or a personality disorder?
With an empathetic approach, I will help you to accomplish your goals and fight the temptations you’re struggling with. My aim as your therapist is to help you overcome your struggles. This can sound and feel overwhelming, but I will guide you through the whole process, helping with you any obstacles that get in the way.
Do you struggle with addiction, low self-esteem or a personality disorder?
With an empathetic approach, I will help you to accomplish your goals and fight the temptations you’re struggling with. My aim as your therapist is to help you overcome your struggles. This can sound and feel overwhelming, but I will guide you through the whole process, helping with you any obstacles that get in the way.
(343) 655-3497 View (343) 655-3497
Photo of Max Monoogian - Keystone Psychotherapy - Max Monoogian, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Keystone Psychotherapy - Max Monoogian
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Ottawa, ON K2P
I work collaboratively with clients to explore and process past and current experiences that include early childhood and attachment trauma; combat trauma; grief and loss; life transitions; relationship concerns; substance use; eating disorders; and anxiety and depression.
Suffering is an inherent part of the human experience. However, we often feel that we are alone in our suffering, that no one can relate to our experiences, or that we don’t deserve to find peace in our lives. This can create feelings of frustration and despair, and we begin to feel stuck, unable to connect with others. Fear of judgement, along with our vulnerabilities can keep us from reaching out when we need it the most. I am confident that every person holds an innate understanding of what they need to heal and grow. Grounded in compassion, humility, and curiosity, my aim is to co-create a safe, open space for self-exploration.
I work collaboratively with clients to explore and process past and current experiences that include early childhood and attachment trauma; combat trauma; grief and loss; life transitions; relationship concerns; substance use; eating disorders; and anxiety and depression.
Suffering is an inherent part of the human experience. However, we often feel that we are alone in our suffering, that no one can relate to our experiences, or that we don’t deserve to find peace in our lives. This can create feelings of frustration and despair, and we begin to feel stuck, unable to connect with others. Fear of judgement, along with our vulnerabilities can keep us from reaching out when we need it the most. I am confident that every person holds an innate understanding of what they need to heal and grow. Grounded in compassion, humility, and curiosity, my aim is to co-create a safe, open space for self-exploration.
(343) 312-6976 View (343) 312-6976
Photo of William Crawford - First Step Men's Therapy (We Do Direct Billing), Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, CCC, RP
First Step Men's Therapy (We Do Direct Billing)
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, CCC, RP
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
As a counsellor at a sober living house for men, I met men from all walks of life, including those struggling with addiction, depression, relationship issues, and anxiety.
Disconnected. Broken. Hopeless. Powerless. Stuck. Many men tell me this is how they feel in our first session. Taking the first step to make change in your life and accept support can sometimes feel the most challenging and overwhelming. As a male therapist, I have learned that working with men requires a focus on practical solutions, a safe and comfortable environment, a therapist who understands the unique personal and societal challenges men face, an emphasis on self-compassion and self-acceptance, and a willingness to address underlying issues. Book a free 20-minute consultation. Click the "website" button to start your journey.
As a counsellor at a sober living house for men, I met men from all walks of life, including those struggling with addiction, depression, relationship issues, and anxiety.
Disconnected. Broken. Hopeless. Powerless. Stuck. Many men tell me this is how they feel in our first session. Taking the first step to make change in your life and accept support can sometimes feel the most challenging and overwhelming. As a male therapist, I have learned that working with men requires a focus on practical solutions, a safe and comfortable environment, a therapist who understands the unique personal and societal challenges men face, an emphasis on self-compassion and self-acceptance, and a willingness to address underlying issues. Book a free 20-minute consultation. Click the "website" button to start your journey.
(343) 633-2652 View (343) 633-2652
Photo of Gundel Lake, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Gundel Lake
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Ottawa, ON K1N
My specialties include trauma, addiction, domestic and (childhood) sexual violence, grief, depression, sexuality, and relationship issues.
My approach to psychotherapy is deeply rooted in feminist and structural analyses that contextualize individual "problems" in our social environments. My therapeutic orientation is comprised of an eclectic mix of theoretical models that guide my work, including emotion focused therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and somatic therapy. While I don't practice exclusively from one perspective, I believe that it is my role to be constantly assessing whether or not the work we are doing appears to be helping you to achieve your therapeutic goals. I offer psychological services under the supervision of Dr. Leigh Karos, C. Psych.
My specialties include trauma, addiction, domestic and (childhood) sexual violence, grief, depression, sexuality, and relationship issues.
My approach to psychotherapy is deeply rooted in feminist and structural analyses that contextualize individual "problems" in our social environments. My therapeutic orientation is comprised of an eclectic mix of theoretical models that guide my work, including emotion focused therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and somatic therapy. While I don't practice exclusively from one perspective, I believe that it is my role to be constantly assessing whether or not the work we are doing appears to be helping you to achieve your therapeutic goals. I offer psychological services under the supervision of Dr. Leigh Karos, C. Psych.
(855) 798-7280 View (855) 798-7280
Photo of Sam Despond, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
Sam Despond
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
As a psychotherapist specializing in adult therapy, I am dedicated to helping clients address a wide range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, grief, substance use, life transitions, mood disorders, and low self-esteem.
I utilize a person-centered approach to help individuals address a range of challenges and develop skills for more fulfilling, balanced lives. By integrating psychodynamic principles, Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT), attachment theory, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), I provide a tailored, effective approach to support clients in overcoming obstacles.
As a psychotherapist specializing in adult therapy, I am dedicated to helping clients address a wide range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, grief, substance use, life transitions, mood disorders, and low self-esteem.
I utilize a person-centered approach to help individuals address a range of challenges and develop skills for more fulfilling, balanced lives. By integrating psychodynamic principles, Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT), attachment theory, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), I provide a tailored, effective approach to support clients in overcoming obstacles.
(343) 305-1665 View (343) 305-1665
Photo of Lisa A Zimmerman, Registered Psychotherapist, MHS, BA, CCC, RP
Lisa A Zimmerman
Registered Psychotherapist, MHS, BA, CCC, RP
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N
I have 17 years experience in the addiction field and have worked with anxiety, depression, trauma and LGBT/trans health.
All of us will face emotional issues, difficulties in relationships, loss or other stressors at some point in their lives. Learning skills to deal with these challenges effectively can make a huge difference to how much enjoyment and satisfaction we can get out of life. It is important to me to provide an opportunity for people to be able to explore their concerns safely and without judgement. I firmly believe that everyone has the capacity to improve their emotional health and sense of well being. Sessions currently conducted online and in person. Session
I have 17 years experience in the addiction field and have worked with anxiety, depression, trauma and LGBT/trans health.
All of us will face emotional issues, difficulties in relationships, loss or other stressors at some point in their lives. Learning skills to deal with these challenges effectively can make a huge difference to how much enjoyment and satisfaction we can get out of life. It is important to me to provide an opportunity for people to be able to explore their concerns safely and without judgement. I firmly believe that everyone has the capacity to improve their emotional health and sense of well being. Sessions currently conducted online and in person. Session
View
Photo of Nathan Hicks, Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSW, BA
Nathan Hicks
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSW, BA
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R
Many of my clients have struggled with severe anxiety or depression as well as trauma, addiction, relationship/attachment issues, and abuse.
I believe it takes a great deal of courage and self-regard for someone to say they need help and reaching out is a powerful (albeit terrifying) first step towards positive change. I understand addressing personal concerns is not a perfect process and takes time but healing through past/present issues is like writing a book: you have to go through a few drafts before you're satisfied with the result. My approach is to meet you in your current stage of life and help you develop the necessary tools to address present issues. You can expect a positive, validating approach which seeks to normalize your experience.
Many of my clients have struggled with severe anxiety or depression as well as trauma, addiction, relationship/attachment issues, and abuse.
I believe it takes a great deal of courage and self-regard for someone to say they need help and reaching out is a powerful (albeit terrifying) first step towards positive change. I understand addressing personal concerns is not a perfect process and takes time but healing through past/present issues is like writing a book: you have to go through a few drafts before you're satisfied with the result. My approach is to meet you in your current stage of life and help you develop the necessary tools to address present issues. You can expect a positive, validating approach which seeks to normalize your experience.
(343) 633-4062 View (343) 633-4062
Photo of Pat Brethour, Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Pat Brethour
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2A
If you are feeling stuck, in despair or suffering low self esteem, the impact of trauma or addiction, I want to be there to help and support you.
I provide a safe, non-judgmental and compassionate environment in which we work together to find what works best for you to improve your mood and present situation.
If you are feeling stuck, in despair or suffering low self esteem, the impact of trauma or addiction, I want to be there to help and support you.
I provide a safe, non-judgmental and compassionate environment in which we work together to find what works best for you to improve your mood and present situation.
(613) 702-8290 View (613) 702-8290

See more therapy options for Ottawa

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.