Addiction Therapists in Toronto, ON

Photo of Dr. Natalie Kalb, Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Dr. Natalie Kalb
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6G
I help youth and adults navigate challenges related to: Substance use & addiction; Queer, transgender, & nonbinary identity exploration and concerns; Trauma/PTSD; Relationship difficulties; ADHD and/or Autism; Anxiety & Depression.
I believe that therapy is a creative opportunity to learn about ourselves. It is a safe space where we can write and rewrite the narratives of our lives. As a queer Mexican woman, I strive to cultivate a practice that is rooted in empathy, empowerment, and inclusivity and provide therapy that is trauma-informed, culturally humble, and neurodiversity & 2SLGBTQ+ affirming. I am privileged to facilitate an environment where my clients can engage in self-discovery, healing, and make changes towards living a meaningful life.
I help youth and adults navigate challenges related to: Substance use & addiction; Queer, transgender, & nonbinary identity exploration and concerns; Trauma/PTSD; Relationship difficulties; ADHD and/or Autism; Anxiety & Depression.
I believe that therapy is a creative opportunity to learn about ourselves. It is a safe space where we can write and rewrite the narratives of our lives. As a queer Mexican woman, I strive to cultivate a practice that is rooted in empathy, empowerment, and inclusivity and provide therapy that is trauma-informed, culturally humble, and neurodiversity & 2SLGBTQ+ affirming. I am privileged to facilitate an environment where my clients can engage in self-discovery, healing, and make changes towards living a meaningful life.
(647) 692-4417 View (647) 692-4417
Photo of Kate Drohan, Registered Social Worker, BASc, RSSW
Kate Drohan
Registered Social Worker, BASc, RSSW
Toronto, ON M6P
I’m passionate about working with adults to heal from anxiety and eating disorders and break free from addiction and negative body image.
Hi, I'm Kate- A passionate and dedicated Psychotherapist and Registered Social Service Worker. "I just want to feel better," is a comment I often hear through the recovery process. You’re not alone. You can heal, start to feel like yourself again, and live a fulfilling life. We get to the root of your pain and develop a hopeful plan that works best for you related to your relationships, work, school, hobbies, and dreams. The tools and techniques you’ll build will support you in everyday life to cope, practice self-compassion, and enhance your mental and physical wellbeing.
I’m passionate about working with adults to heal from anxiety and eating disorders and break free from addiction and negative body image.
Hi, I'm Kate- A passionate and dedicated Psychotherapist and Registered Social Service Worker. "I just want to feel better," is a comment I often hear through the recovery process. You’re not alone. You can heal, start to feel like yourself again, and live a fulfilling life. We get to the root of your pain and develop a hopeful plan that works best for you related to your relationships, work, school, hobbies, and dreams. The tools and techniques you’ll build will support you in everyday life to cope, practice self-compassion, and enhance your mental and physical wellbeing.
(647) 724-2106 View (647) 724-2106
Photo of Samantha Shore, Registered Social Worker, MSW, Soc BA
Samantha Shore
Registered Social Worker, MSW, Soc BA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Have you or someone you love been faced with depression, anxiety, addiction, loss, or a traumatic life event?
Greetings! I’m Samantha and I’m the founder of Curated Counselling: a practice built on a personalized and compatible counselling experience. Miriam Webster’s Dictionary defines “curated” as: “carefully chosen and thoughtfully organized and presented” - which is precisely what Curated Counselling brings to the table. In a mental health culture of cookie cutter and “one size fits all” approaches to healing, I strive to provide my clients with a personalized experience tailored to them and their individual needs.
Have you or someone you love been faced with depression, anxiety, addiction, loss, or a traumatic life event?
Greetings! I’m Samantha and I’m the founder of Curated Counselling: a practice built on a personalized and compatible counselling experience. Miriam Webster’s Dictionary defines “curated” as: “carefully chosen and thoughtfully organized and presented” - which is precisely what Curated Counselling brings to the table. In a mental health culture of cookie cutter and “one size fits all” approaches to healing, I strive to provide my clients with a personalized experience tailored to them and their individual needs.
(437) 747-8402 View (437) 747-8402
Photo of Kelly Holt, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA
Kelly Holt
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA
Online Only
I have experience in addressing women's mental health and addiction recovery.
Are you looking to address your drinking or other addictive tendencies? Is perimenopause affecting you mentally as well as physically? Are you looking to improve your overall mental health? Let's talk! I primarily work with women exploring sobriety and navigating life challenges without alcohol or other substances. I support women in ending relationships, feeling overwhelmed by career transitions, and coping with changes in body image, self-worth, and identity as they enter perimenopause and menopause. Click on "my website" to access my online booking site.
I have experience in addressing women's mental health and addiction recovery.
Are you looking to address your drinking or other addictive tendencies? Is perimenopause affecting you mentally as well as physically? Are you looking to improve your overall mental health? Let's talk! I primarily work with women exploring sobriety and navigating life challenges without alcohol or other substances. I support women in ending relationships, feeling overwhelmed by career transitions, and coping with changes in body image, self-worth, and identity as they enter perimenopause and menopause. Click on "my website" to access my online booking site.
(437) 292-3787 View (437) 292-3787
Photo of Andy Manson, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Andy Manson
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Toronto, ON M4G
I see clients for addiction, anger, depression, anxiety and trauma in addition to various life stresses.
I’m educated in co-occurring disorders at Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School. So, I can help with both substance and mental health issues (see list of expertise below). I add to this 20-years of personal experience in recovery from alcohol use. As a therapist, I bring an empathetic ear and an open mind. I move at your pace. And I support your goals.
I see clients for addiction, anger, depression, anxiety and trauma in addition to various life stresses.
I’m educated in co-occurring disorders at Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School. So, I can help with both substance and mental health issues (see list of expertise below). I add to this 20-years of personal experience in recovery from alcohol use. As a therapist, I bring an empathetic ear and an open mind. I move at your pace. And I support your goals.
View
Photo of Dominique Morisano, Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Dominique Morisano
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6H
I treat issues of mood and anxiety as well as more complex issues involving substance use and abuse and trauma.
I am a Clinical Psychologist, Researcher, Consultant, Editor, Professor, and Public Speaker. My clinical work aligns well with my research interests, which revolve around addiction science, the effects of personal goal-setting and mindfulness, at-risk youth, and issues related to improving mental health and addiction systems services.
I treat issues of mood and anxiety as well as more complex issues involving substance use and abuse and trauma.
I am a Clinical Psychologist, Researcher, Consultant, Editor, Professor, and Public Speaker. My clinical work aligns well with my research interests, which revolve around addiction science, the effects of personal goal-setting and mindfulness, at-risk youth, and issues related to improving mental health and addiction systems services.
(855) 649-2150 View (855) 649-2150
Photo of Eryl McCaffrey, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP-Q, MACP, BA, RYT
Eryl McCaffrey
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP-Q, MACP, BA, RYT
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6S
I'm a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and Certified Yoga Teacher, and I blend mindfulness, neuroscience, and psychology with my own mental health and addiction recovery tools to offer clients a unique, holistic approach to healing.
I work collaboratively with you to set and move towards your therapy goals. I use methods and concepts learned through my 10+ years of yoga and meditation teaching experience, with evidence-based resources and tools to help you get clear about the stories and behaviours that keep you stuck, find more freedom in your body, and progress in your life.
I'm a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and Certified Yoga Teacher, and I blend mindfulness, neuroscience, and psychology with my own mental health and addiction recovery tools to offer clients a unique, holistic approach to healing.
I work collaboratively with you to set and move towards your therapy goals. I use methods and concepts learned through my 10+ years of yoga and meditation teaching experience, with evidence-based resources and tools to help you get clear about the stories and behaviours that keep you stuck, find more freedom in your body, and progress in your life.
(647) 365-1729 View (647) 365-1729
Photo of Michelle Reis - Addiction & BPD Support - Michelle Reis, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Addiction & BPD Support - Michelle Reis
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether it’s substance use, relationship struggles, or patterns that feel out of control, it’s exhausting trying to manage it all without support.
With 8 years of experience as an addictions counsellor, I specialize in supporting people facing substance use challenges and BPD symptoms. Our work focuses on understanding your patterns, calming emotional chaos, and building real skills for change. You don’t have to figure everything out at once—we’ll start with what feels manageable.
Whether it’s substance use, relationship struggles, or patterns that feel out of control, it’s exhausting trying to manage it all without support.
With 8 years of experience as an addictions counsellor, I specialize in supporting people facing substance use challenges and BPD symptoms. Our work focuses on understanding your patterns, calming emotional chaos, and building real skills for change. You don’t have to figure everything out at once—we’ll start with what feels manageable.
(647) 694-1122 View (647) 694-1122
Photo of Marta Leskiv, Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Marta Leskiv
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6R
With over 9 years of dedicated service in community residential mental health and addiction treatment centres, coupled with substantial expertise in clinical treatment settings and hospitals, I bring a wealth of experience to my practice.
Change can be scary, however, growth lies in discomfort. Leveraging a diverse set of techniques refined over years of clinical practice, I strive to uncover the underlying issues that may be influencing your overall wellbeing. Whether the problem feels small or big, old or new; I am open to bringing it into the room for closer observation and deeper discovery. Everyone has the capacity to change their lives. I recognize that we are each more than just our family, our relationships, our biology, or our circumstances, but also understand that our connection to each of these may profoundly impact our sense of wellbeing.
With over 9 years of dedicated service in community residential mental health and addiction treatment centres, coupled with substantial expertise in clinical treatment settings and hospitals, I bring a wealth of experience to my practice.
Change can be scary, however, growth lies in discomfort. Leveraging a diverse set of techniques refined over years of clinical practice, I strive to uncover the underlying issues that may be influencing your overall wellbeing. Whether the problem feels small or big, old or new; I am open to bringing it into the room for closer observation and deeper discovery. Everyone has the capacity to change their lives. I recognize that we are each more than just our family, our relationships, our biology, or our circumstances, but also understand that our connection to each of these may profoundly impact our sense of wellbeing.
(437) 600-9624 View (437) 600-9624
Photo of Arshdeep Sandhu, Registered Social Worker, MCP, RSW
Arshdeep Sandhu
Registered Social Worker, MCP, RSW
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5T
I specialize in issues related to confidence, addiction, anxiety, anger, trauma, and relationships.
Growing up in a society and culture that can make it hard to open up about problems, we can miss how professional help can empower us to tackle our addictions, heal anxiety and anger, and create fulfilling relationships by overcoming our insecurities and learning how to argue better. I have always been interested in deeply exploring how to be a more confident person who I can respect with healthier habits, being strong in my mind and heart, and being more capable of handling conflict within my relationships and family so that I can have a fulfilling life.
I specialize in issues related to confidence, addiction, anxiety, anger, trauma, and relationships.
Growing up in a society and culture that can make it hard to open up about problems, we can miss how professional help can empower us to tackle our addictions, heal anxiety and anger, and create fulfilling relationships by overcoming our insecurities and learning how to argue better. I have always been interested in deeply exploring how to be a more confident person who I can respect with healthier habits, being strong in my mind and heart, and being more capable of handling conflict within my relationships and family so that I can have a fulfilling life.
(647) 370-1531 View (647) 370-1531
Photo of Daria Coulombe - Addiction | BPD | Childhood Trauma - Daria, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Addiction | BPD | Childhood Trauma - Daria
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Online Only
My focus is in supporting adults navigating addiction, BPD traits, and the lasting impact of childhood trauma.
Accepting New Clients! You might feel stuck in patterns that are hard to explain—like using substances to numb out, intense ups and downs in relationships, or a deep sense of not feeling “enough.” Maybe you’ve been told you're “too much” or “not enough,” or you’re carrying wounds from childhood that still shape how you show up in the world. You're tired of the chaos, the shame, the self-doubt—and you're ready for things to feel different. You want clarity, stability, and the tools to handle big emotions without losing yourself in the process.
My focus is in supporting adults navigating addiction, BPD traits, and the lasting impact of childhood trauma.
Accepting New Clients! You might feel stuck in patterns that are hard to explain—like using substances to numb out, intense ups and downs in relationships, or a deep sense of not feeling “enough.” Maybe you’ve been told you're “too much” or “not enough,” or you’re carrying wounds from childhood that still shape how you show up in the world. You're tired of the chaos, the shame, the self-doubt—and you're ready for things to feel different. You want clarity, stability, and the tools to handle big emotions without losing yourself in the process.
(647) 692-3642 View (647) 692-3642
Photo of Heidi Klett, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Heidi Klett
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
While I offer therapy for all areas of concern, I do have specialized interests in: 1) substance use and addiction concerns, 2) trauma, 3) anxiety, and 4) grief and loss of any kind including death, non-death losses and life transitions.
All feelings and struggles welcome! Difficult emotions, unresolved experiences and life challenges are often trying to tell us something. They also provide a sacred opportunity to connect with your values, needs, inner wisdom and understanding of the self. In our work together, compassion, curiosity, empowerment and reflection are used to provide an opportunity where you can feel safe, heard and understood. I use a blend of therapeutic modalities to best fit your therapeutic needs. I also offer a mix of day, evening and weekend appointments for flexible scheduling.
While I offer therapy for all areas of concern, I do have specialized interests in: 1) substance use and addiction concerns, 2) trauma, 3) anxiety, and 4) grief and loss of any kind including death, non-death losses and life transitions.
All feelings and struggles welcome! Difficult emotions, unresolved experiences and life challenges are often trying to tell us something. They also provide a sacred opportunity to connect with your values, needs, inner wisdom and understanding of the self. In our work together, compassion, curiosity, empowerment and reflection are used to provide an opportunity where you can feel safe, heard and understood. I use a blend of therapeutic modalities to best fit your therapeutic needs. I also offer a mix of day, evening and weekend appointments for flexible scheduling.
(647) 243-8515 View (647) 243-8515
Photo of Matt King - Therapy for Men | Matt King, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Therapy for Men | Matt King
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Online Only
With years of experience supporting men through anxiety, addiction, and life stress, I offer a space that’s down-to-earth and judgment-free.
Accepting New Clients! You’ve learned to push things down and power through—but lately, it’s catching up to you. Maybe it’s showing up in your relationships, your drinking, your energy, or just that nagging sense that something’s off. You want to feel more in control, less reactive, and not so stuck in your own head. You’re looking for support that’s real, respectful, and actually helpful—no fluff, no lectures.
With years of experience supporting men through anxiety, addiction, and life stress, I offer a space that’s down-to-earth and judgment-free.
Accepting New Clients! You’ve learned to push things down and power through—but lately, it’s catching up to you. Maybe it’s showing up in your relationships, your drinking, your energy, or just that nagging sense that something’s off. You want to feel more in control, less reactive, and not so stuck in your own head. You’re looking for support that’s real, respectful, and actually helpful—no fluff, no lectures.
(289) 274-6584 View (289) 274-6584
Photo of Malaka Hakim, Registered Psychotherapist, MD, MA, RP, TITC-CT
Malaka Hakim
Registered Psychotherapist, MD, MA, RP, TITC-CT
Toronto, ON M6K
Malaka Hakim has a Doctorate in Medicine and a Master's of Arts in Counselling Psychology. She is an active member of the CRPO and a certified Clinical Traumatologist. Malaka helps clients with their stress, anxiety, depression, substance-use, anger management, behavioral issues, ADHD, ASD, along with other mental health disorders. She also works with a multitude of different approaches, including client -centered, ACT, Trauma-Focused CBT, DBT, MI, EFT, and strength based therapy. Malaka’s authentic personality, paired with a genuine respect for others allows her to work with clients that encounter varying degrees of challenges.
Malaka Hakim has a Doctorate in Medicine and a Master's of Arts in Counselling Psychology. She is an active member of the CRPO and a certified Clinical Traumatologist. Malaka helps clients with their stress, anxiety, depression, substance-use, anger management, behavioral issues, ADHD, ASD, along with other mental health disorders. She also works with a multitude of different approaches, including client -centered, ACT, Trauma-Focused CBT, DBT, MI, EFT, and strength based therapy. Malaka’s authentic personality, paired with a genuine respect for others allows her to work with clients that encounter varying degrees of challenges.
(437) 224-1329 View (437) 224-1329
Photo of Mijon Lemesurier - Centre of Care Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, CCC, CA-IP, BA-Psyc
Centre of Care Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, CCC, CA-IP, BA-Psyc
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I have additional certifications in DBT, CBT, substance use, grief/trauma-informed therapy, and Gottman method for couples.
Learn how to change your anxious thoughts and better understand parts of the brain that affect how you feel, think, and interpret situations for anxiety management. Get tools to feel empowered to make positive changes and feel better about yourself. For couples, you can expect to gain skills in improving communication, learning how to manage conflict constructively, and finding ways to express your appreciation for one another while increasing emotional connection. In teen therapy, we will develop strategies to cope with a crisis and learn how to focus on the here-and-now in an encouraging and motivating therapy setting.
I have additional certifications in DBT, CBT, substance use, grief/trauma-informed therapy, and Gottman method for couples.
Learn how to change your anxious thoughts and better understand parts of the brain that affect how you feel, think, and interpret situations for anxiety management. Get tools to feel empowered to make positive changes and feel better about yourself. For couples, you can expect to gain skills in improving communication, learning how to manage conflict constructively, and finding ways to express your appreciation for one another while increasing emotional connection. In teen therapy, we will develop strategies to cope with a crisis and learn how to focus on the here-and-now in an encouraging and motivating therapy setting.
(437) 837-3095 View (437) 837-3095
Photo of Tim George Tentcher - Mental Health Support, CSW, CPRP
Mental Health Support
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5S
Anxiety, depression, addiction and family issues are my main focus.
My book "Picture your Life" helps people to clarify and set achievable goals. This book helps people to focus and deal with issues that have been blocking them. I work with faith, I am a Christian but I do not push my beliefs. We need faith that is beyond ourselves.
Anxiety, depression, addiction and family issues are my main focus.
My book "Picture your Life" helps people to clarify and set achievable goals. This book helps people to focus and deal with issues that have been blocking them. I work with faith, I am a Christian but I do not push my beliefs. We need faith that is beyond ourselves.
(226) 286-8468 View (226) 286-8468
Photo of Adam Busch, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CSFT
Adam Busch
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CSFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I have over 10 years of experience helping people with: recovery from addiction, managing anxiety and mood (depression), recovering from trauma (PTSD), self-esteem, navigating stress, burnout, managing a diagnosis, grief and loss, improving relationships and communication skills, sexual health and wellbeing, to name a few.
I am a Certified Solution Focused Therapist (CSFT). I am also well-versed in many forms of psychotherapy (scroll down to see below). I aim to help you identify and build on what is working more so than 'fix' what is 'broken.' I offer single-session, brief and longer term therapy, as well as couples work. I also provide clinical supervision in SFBT.
I have over 10 years of experience helping people with: recovery from addiction, managing anxiety and mood (depression), recovering from trauma (PTSD), self-esteem, navigating stress, burnout, managing a diagnosis, grief and loss, improving relationships and communication skills, sexual health and wellbeing, to name a few.
I am a Certified Solution Focused Therapist (CSFT). I am also well-versed in many forms of psychotherapy (scroll down to see below). I aim to help you identify and build on what is working more so than 'fix' what is 'broken.' I offer single-session, brief and longer term therapy, as well as couples work. I also provide clinical supervision in SFBT.
(437) 372-5358 View (437) 372-5358
Photo of Sophie Solmini, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, ICADC, SAP
Sophie Solmini
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, ICADC, SAP
Toronto, ON M5S
I am a substance abuse professional, and an Internationally Certified Alcohol and Drugs Counsellor.
Heal at Home Inc. provides access to individualized therapy and medication treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder in the palm of your hand. Check our website today! Healathome.ca
I am a substance abuse professional, and an Internationally Certified Alcohol and Drugs Counsellor.
Heal at Home Inc. provides access to individualized therapy and medication treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder in the palm of your hand. Check our website today! Healathome.ca
(647) 560-8791 View (647) 560-8791
Photo of Cherisse Doobay, Counsellor, BA, MSc, CLC
Cherisse Doobay
Counsellor, BA, MSc, CLC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
These include, depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, psychosis/schizophrenia, addiction, concurrent disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders and bereavement.
I help by giving my clients an open, non-judgmental and inclusive approach to counselling. I create a safe space for people where they can be vulnerable and find tangible solutions to the challenges they are facing. I am a results-driven practitioner. My clients have success in achieving their goals.
These include, depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, psychosis/schizophrenia, addiction, concurrent disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders and bereavement.
I help by giving my clients an open, non-judgmental and inclusive approach to counselling. I create a safe space for people where they can be vulnerable and find tangible solutions to the challenges they are facing. I am a results-driven practitioner. My clients have success in achieving their goals.
(647) 493-4841 View (647) 493-4841
Photo of Zahra Naqvi - Find Your Essence!, Registered Social Worker, RSSW, BA, MA
Find Your Essence!
Registered Social Worker, RSSW, BA, MA
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5B
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, or past trauma, you don’t have to face it alone.
As a Registered Social Service Worker and Expressive Arts Therapist in training, I offer holistic, client-centred therapy that honours your unique background and experiences. My approach blends practical tools like somatic practices and creative expression with a trauma-informed, harm-reduction lens—helping you meaningfully align your mind, body, and soul!
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, or past trauma, you don’t have to face it alone.
As a Registered Social Service Worker and Expressive Arts Therapist in training, I offer holistic, client-centred therapy that honours your unique background and experiences. My approach blends practical tools like somatic practices and creative expression with a trauma-informed, harm-reduction lens—helping you meaningfully align your mind, body, and soul!
(437) 747-5201 View (437) 747-5201

See more therapy options for Toronto

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.