Addiction Therapists in Vaughan, ON

Photo of Alessia Caputo - Alessia Caputo (Supervised Practice), MPsy, Psychological Associate
Alessia Caputo (Supervised Practice)
Psychological Associate, MPsy
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4H
I am a Psychological Associate (Supervised Practice) based in Toronto and the GTA. I operate from a trauma-informed approach and primarily use Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, a non-pathologizing and evidence-based modality that helps people connect deeply with parts of themselves to promote more internal harmony. I have a particular passion for working with individuals who have experienced complex trauma, attachment injury, post-traumatic stress, addiction, and anxiety. I also integrate aspects of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) into my work with individuals when relevant.
I am a Psychological Associate (Supervised Practice) based in Toronto and the GTA. I operate from a trauma-informed approach and primarily use Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, a non-pathologizing and evidence-based modality that helps people connect deeply with parts of themselves to promote more internal harmony. I have a particular passion for working with individuals who have experienced complex trauma, attachment injury, post-traumatic stress, addiction, and anxiety. I also integrate aspects of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) into my work with individuals when relevant.
View
Photo of Jeanne Deborah Foot - The Recovery Concierge, CCAC, ICADC, IBCP
The Recovery Concierge
CCAC, ICADC, IBCP
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4H
Are you overcome with guilt about your addiction and behaviours? Maybe you find yourself saying that it was the last time...only to find yourself relapsing. Choosing the right specialist is essential to your recovery. As an internationally certified addiction counsellor and holistic health practitioner, I have helped hundreds of individuals and families treat addiction and heal unhealthy patterns. Using evidence-based therapeutic methods, I’ll work with you to create a recovery path that fits your lifestyle and goals. Recovery means something different to everyone. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach.
Are you overcome with guilt about your addiction and behaviours? Maybe you find yourself saying that it was the last time...only to find yourself relapsing. Choosing the right specialist is essential to your recovery. As an internationally certified addiction counsellor and holistic health practitioner, I have helped hundreds of individuals and families treat addiction and heal unhealthy patterns. Using evidence-based therapeutic methods, I’ll work with you to create a recovery path that fits your lifestyle and goals. Recovery means something different to everyone. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach.
(647) 493-1853 View (647) 493-1853
Photo of Amanda Elston, RP(Q), BA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Amanda Elston
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I also have experience working with substance use.
Welcome! I am glad you are here. I recognize that taking the first step is the hardest part. By being here, you are already well on your way to your healing journey, and I am honoured to be a part of it. Whether you are experiencing relationship issues, addictions, or trauma, it takes strength to ask for help and commit to change. Therapy can enable you to understand and build awareness of deeper issues through inner child work and reparenting yourself to heal attachment wounds and become your true and authentic self.
I also have experience working with substance use.
Welcome! I am glad you are here. I recognize that taking the first step is the hardest part. By being here, you are already well on your way to your healing journey, and I am honoured to be a part of it. Whether you are experiencing relationship issues, addictions, or trauma, it takes strength to ask for help and commit to change. Therapy can enable you to understand and build awareness of deeper issues through inner child work and reparenting yourself to heal attachment wounds and become your true and authentic self.
View
Photo of Emad Zahedi - First Step Men's Therapy (No Waitlist), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
First Step Men's Therapy (No Waitlist)
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Our specialities include: ADHD, men's issues, career guidance, sexual addiction, grief, video game addiction, gambling, alcohol use, addiction, infidelity, anger management, behavioural issues, anxiety, and depression.
Men often carry heavy burdens silently, feeling pressured to hide their struggles. But inside, they're hurting. They suffer with tough emotions like sadness, anxiety, addiction, and past traumas. Therapy is like a safe harbor in a storm. It's a place where guys can open up in a safe, non-judgemental space. It helps them untangle their feelings, heal old wounds, and discover their true selves. My role is to support men with the tools and insight to tackle life's hurdles with strength and confidence. Whether its your first time seeking help or you are looking for something new, we are here to support you. Book a free consult today!
Our specialities include: ADHD, men's issues, career guidance, sexual addiction, grief, video game addiction, gambling, alcohol use, addiction, infidelity, anger management, behavioural issues, anxiety, and depression.
Men often carry heavy burdens silently, feeling pressured to hide their struggles. But inside, they're hurting. They suffer with tough emotions like sadness, anxiety, addiction, and past traumas. Therapy is like a safe harbor in a storm. It's a place where guys can open up in a safe, non-judgemental space. It helps them untangle their feelings, heal old wounds, and discover their true selves. My role is to support men with the tools and insight to tackle life's hurdles with strength and confidence. Whether its your first time seeking help or you are looking for something new, we are here to support you. Book a free consult today!
(289) 903-0965 View (289) 903-0965
Photo of Malik Smith, MSW, RSSW, Registered Social Worker
Malik Smith
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
In facing challenges like addiction, stress, anxiety, depression, or trauma, I provide an environment where safety and vulnerability are possible, allowing for deep exploration of your emotions and thoughts.
I believe everyone already holds the keys to their own healing; my role is to help you find and use those keys. Using a trauma-informed approach, I aim to empower and guide you toward becoming your own source of support and insight. Starting therapy takes courage, and I understand the hesitation some might feel about opening up, especially to a male therapist – it's a step that requires a lot of trust. However, I want to assure you that my practice is a place of warmth and non-judgment. Having faced my own mental health struggles, I connect deeply with those on a similar journey and I provide a calm, grounded presence in session.
In facing challenges like addiction, stress, anxiety, depression, or trauma, I provide an environment where safety and vulnerability are possible, allowing for deep exploration of your emotions and thoughts.
I believe everyone already holds the keys to their own healing; my role is to help you find and use those keys. Using a trauma-informed approach, I aim to empower and guide you toward becoming your own source of support and insight. Starting therapy takes courage, and I understand the hesitation some might feel about opening up, especially to a male therapist – it's a step that requires a lot of trust. However, I want to assure you that my practice is a place of warmth and non-judgment. Having faced my own mental health struggles, I connect deeply with those on a similar journey and I provide a calm, grounded presence in session.
(289) 274-9028 View (289) 274-9028
Photo of Malaka Hakim, MD, MA, RP, TITC-CT, Registered Psychotherapist
Malaka Hakim
Registered Psychotherapist, MD, MA, RP, TITC-CT
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4L
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 Heidi Klett, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Heidi Klett
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
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 Lindsy Berman - Soulstice Health Inc., RSW, MSW, ADS, RYT, CSEPCPT, Registered Social Worker
Soulstice Health Inc.
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, ADS, RYT, CSEPCPT
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4H
Soulstice Health Inc. is a community-based Wellness Centre that adopts a holistic understanding of mental and physical health. We aspire to foster optimal personal health and healing from a mind, body, and soul approach. To truly tap into our greatest potential, we believe that self-connection is essential. Working collaboratively with individuals affected by mental health and/or addiction concerns, we support them in finding their own meaningful paths to healing. We are dedicated to helping you find your true self while fostering improved self-care, building on capacity, and realizing your fullest potential.
Soulstice Health Inc. is a community-based Wellness Centre that adopts a holistic understanding of mental and physical health. We aspire to foster optimal personal health and healing from a mind, body, and soul approach. To truly tap into our greatest potential, we believe that self-connection is essential. Working collaboratively with individuals affected by mental health and/or addiction concerns, we support them in finding their own meaningful paths to healing. We are dedicated to helping you find your true self while fostering improved self-care, building on capacity, and realizing your fullest potential.
(647) 564-5872 View (647) 564-5872
Photo of Athena Zambelis, RN, Pre-Licensed Professional
Athena Zambelis
Pre-Licensed Professional, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
Hi there! I’m Athena, a Master's-level therapist intern offering reduced therapy rates. I use an eclectic approach to help individuals envision and build towards a life worth living based on their unique values, strengths, and goals. In addition to psychotherapy, I have used psychoeducation and medication management to help clients manage a range of psychiatric diagnoses, including mood, personality, psychotic, and substance-related disorders.
Hi there! I’m Athena, a Master's-level therapist intern offering reduced therapy rates. I use an eclectic approach to help individuals envision and build towards a life worth living based on their unique values, strengths, and goals. In addition to psychotherapy, I have used psychoeducation and medication management to help clients manage a range of psychiatric diagnoses, including mood, personality, psychotic, and substance-related disorders.
(289) 206-6989 x736 View (289) 206-6989 x736
Photo of Desiree Brown, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Desiree Brown
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
I share a common human experience with my clients and appreciate our journeys. Maybe you're considering therapy to connect with someone non-judgmental and outside your personal support system; you're feeling uneasy or worrying about life; you're withdrawing from others and no longer find joy and pleasure; substance use or a habitual behaviour is getting in the way of meaningful relationships and meeting life’s challenges; or you experienced a major event in your life and you're feeling overwhelmed. We will endeavour to understand these challenges and I will support you in taking steps that would benefit you.
I share a common human experience with my clients and appreciate our journeys. Maybe you're considering therapy to connect with someone non-judgmental and outside your personal support system; you're feeling uneasy or worrying about life; you're withdrawing from others and no longer find joy and pleasure; substance use or a habitual behaviour is getting in the way of meaningful relationships and meeting life’s challenges; or you experienced a major event in your life and you're feeling overwhelmed. We will endeavour to understand these challenges and I will support you in taking steps that would benefit you.
(289) 276-8871 View (289) 276-8871
Photo of Sara Giambagno, BA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sara Giambagno
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4H
Particularly focused on aiding those with anxiety, stress, and addiction.
Embarking on a journey towards healing and self-discovery is a courageous step, and I am here to walk alongside you every step of the way. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and a commitment to providing personalized support tailored to your unique needs. Throughout our journey together, I will hold space for your emotions, honour your experiences, and empower you to embrace growth and transformation with courage and resilience.
Particularly focused on aiding those with anxiety, stress, and addiction.
Embarking on a journey towards healing and self-discovery is a courageous step, and I am here to walk alongside you every step of the way. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and a commitment to providing personalized support tailored to your unique needs. Throughout our journey together, I will hold space for your emotions, honour your experiences, and empower you to embrace growth and transformation with courage and resilience.
(365) 809-1906 View (365) 809-1906
Photo of Omar Waheed, MA, RP, CSAT, Registered Psychotherapist
Omar Waheed
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
With mental health and addiction there comes this terrible feeling of powerlessness, shame and loss of control. Sometimes reaching out for help seems like too much. But when you do reach out, you will know what it's like to recover and the tremendous hope it brings. The strength you didn't know you had will appear and you will feel whole again - and in control. I would like to help you find that way forward.
With mental health and addiction there comes this terrible feeling of powerlessness, shame and loss of control. Sometimes reaching out for help seems like too much. But when you do reach out, you will know what it's like to recover and the tremendous hope it brings. The strength you didn't know you had will appear and you will feel whole again - and in control. I would like to help you find that way forward.
(289) 806-5342 View (289) 806-5342
Photo of Tony Miller, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Tony Miller
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4J
I provide therapeutic services to adults, couples and families across Ontario. I have years of experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, stress, relationship issues, life changes, etc.
I provide therapeutic services to adults, couples and families across Ontario. I have years of experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, stress, relationship issues, life changes, etc.
(289) 271-0676 View (289) 271-0676
Photo of Abigail Ajodha - Karkiu Psychotherapy And Counselling, BSW, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Abigail Ajodha - Karkiu Psychotherapy And Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSW, MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
My clients are typically adults working through intergenerational trauma, being the parentified sibling, living as a neurospicy person, depression, anxiety, substance use, relationship issues, and codependency.
Accepting New Clients! - You've taken the first step toward healing, and that's something to be proud of. We, at Karkiu Psychotherapy, are cheering you on in this bold move! Choosing to seek therapy isn't easy, but it's a powerful decision. As your therapist, I strive to create a warm, non-judgmental space where you can explore the challenges holding you back from achieving meaningful change in your life. My approach is person-centered and collaborative, offering a safe environment for you to reflect on how past experiences may be shaping who you are today.
My clients are typically adults working through intergenerational trauma, being the parentified sibling, living as a neurospicy person, depression, anxiety, substance use, relationship issues, and codependency.
Accepting New Clients! - You've taken the first step toward healing, and that's something to be proud of. We, at Karkiu Psychotherapy, are cheering you on in this bold move! Choosing to seek therapy isn't easy, but it's a powerful decision. As your therapist, I strive to create a warm, non-judgmental space where you can explore the challenges holding you back from achieving meaningful change in your life. My approach is person-centered and collaborative, offering a safe environment for you to reflect on how past experiences may be shaping who you are today.
(289) 434-5232 View (289) 434-5232
Photo of Michelle Sinardo | Windmill Psychotherapy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Michelle Sinardo | Windmill Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have been working as a mental health and substance use professional in both hospital and community organizations for over 14 years.
You don’t have to go through it alone! Together, we can talk about what is weighing on your mind and navigate the road ahead. There is hope - even if you feel stuck, worried about the future, or simply don't know where to start.
I have been working as a mental health and substance use professional in both hospital and community organizations for over 14 years.
You don’t have to go through it alone! Together, we can talk about what is weighing on your mind and navigate the road ahead. There is hope - even if you feel stuck, worried about the future, or simply don't know where to start.
(289) 275-6581 View (289) 275-6581
Photo of Gauri Mathur - Vaughan Counselling & Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist
Vaughan Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4L
Accepting New Clients! Welcome to our page! Whether you stumbled this page because of a recent break-up, divorce, an addiction you want to break, marriage problems or just looking to find ways to cope with your stress, you found the right place. We specialize in CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Inner Child Work and other modalities to assist you. We can provide you with tools to help you cope but can also assist you in finding and healing the core issue.
Accepting New Clients! Welcome to our page! Whether you stumbled this page because of a recent break-up, divorce, an addiction you want to break, marriage problems or just looking to find ways to cope with your stress, you found the right place. We specialize in CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Inner Child Work and other modalities to assist you. We can provide you with tools to help you cope but can also assist you in finding and healing the core issue.
(365) 800-5972 View (365) 800-5972
Photo of Allen Kharlip, ICADC, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor
Allen Kharlip
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, ICADC
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4K
I am an experienced addictions counsellor dedicated to providing support, guidance, and hope to individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction.
Your well-being and success are at the heart of everything we do. I am dedicated to walking alongside you and your loved ones helping you rediscover your inner strength, resilience, and hope.
I am an experienced addictions counsellor dedicated to providing support, guidance, and hope to individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction.
Your well-being and success are at the heart of everything we do. I am dedicated to walking alongside you and your loved ones helping you rediscover your inner strength, resilience, and hope.
(289) 301-0945 View (289) 301-0945
Photo of Lalia Palacio - Centre for Mind Body Psychotherapy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Centre for Mind Body Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
We believe in the power of holistic healing. We understand deep healing often requires more than traditional talk therapy. Our integrative approach supports individuals, couples, and children/adolescents facing PTSD & trauma, personality disorders, anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship distress, neurodivergence, grief & loss, illness & chronic pain, loss of purpose & more. Our evidence-based mind body therapies support psychological, emotional, physical, neurobiological and relational well-being, helping you achieve deep and lasting change. Also, clinical supervision is available
We believe in the power of holistic healing. We understand deep healing often requires more than traditional talk therapy. Our integrative approach supports individuals, couples, and children/adolescents facing PTSD & trauma, personality disorders, anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship distress, neurodivergence, grief & loss, illness & chronic pain, loss of purpose & more. Our evidence-based mind body therapies support psychological, emotional, physical, neurobiological and relational well-being, helping you achieve deep and lasting change. Also, clinical supervision is available
(647) 490-8944 View (647) 490-8944
Photo of Stacy Keenan, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Stacy Keenan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4L
This includes working with clients experiencing mental health challenges, grief and loss/bereavement, substance use, trauma, family and relationship challenges, life transitions, stress management, and parenting support.
Life is full of unavoidable challenges that sometimes require the support of others to assist us in navigating through them. If you've reached a point where your past or present experiences feel beyond your control and are interfering with various aspects of your life, support is available. I use a person centered approach and offer a calm, non-judgmental, safe space for you to process your experiences and identify and reach your goals.
This includes working with clients experiencing mental health challenges, grief and loss/bereavement, substance use, trauma, family and relationship challenges, life transitions, stress management, and parenting support.
Life is full of unavoidable challenges that sometimes require the support of others to assist us in navigating through them. If you've reached a point where your past or present experiences feel beyond your control and are interfering with various aspects of your life, support is available. I use a person centered approach and offer a calm, non-judgmental, safe space for you to process your experiences and identify and reach your goals.
(289) 802-6396 View (289) 802-6396
Photo of Karen Freud, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Karen Freud
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4L
My areas of focus include managing anxiety, reducing stress, depression, emotional regulation, self-care, boundaries, coping with life changes, issues related to aging, identity, improving self-esteem, boosting confidence and addiction healing aftercare.
A graduate of the Toronto Art Therapy Institute, I am a Registered Psychotherapist, Registered Art Therapist, and a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional Throughout my professional career I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults within a variety of settings including children’s mental health, addiction and mental healthcare and long-term care. My youngest client to date was 4 years old and the oldest was 103. It’s exciting to witness how art therapy can be successful with all ages (and no skill in art making is required)!
My areas of focus include managing anxiety, reducing stress, depression, emotional regulation, self-care, boundaries, coping with life changes, issues related to aging, identity, improving self-esteem, boosting confidence and addiction healing aftercare.
A graduate of the Toronto Art Therapy Institute, I am a Registered Psychotherapist, Registered Art Therapist, and a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional Throughout my professional career I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults within a variety of settings including children’s mental health, addiction and mental healthcare and long-term care. My youngest client to date was 4 years old and the oldest was 103. It’s exciting to witness how art therapy can be successful with all ages (and no skill in art making is required)!
(289) 401-5259 View (289) 401-5259

See more therapy options for Vaughan

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.