Addiction Counselling in BS3

Photo of Stafford Wilson, MBACP, Counsellor
Stafford Wilson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
I work with a wide range of issues and specialise in addiction, chronic shame and depression.
Counselling is a safe space where you can talk about problems and process difficult emotions without shame or judgement. We often feel that we should be able to deal with our problems without others help. But it is often through sharing and opening up to others, that we can find the way to heal ourselves. Trauma, mental or emotional problems, disconnect us from ourselves and others. Sharing our pain and our story (in a relationship where it is held safely) can allow us to value, respect and have compassion for all parts of ourselves. This re-integration unblocks our creative/healing potential and our sense of purpose and meaning.
I work with a wide range of issues and specialise in addiction, chronic shame and depression.
Counselling is a safe space where you can talk about problems and process difficult emotions without shame or judgement. We often feel that we should be able to deal with our problems without others help. But it is often through sharing and opening up to others, that we can find the way to heal ourselves. Trauma, mental or emotional problems, disconnect us from ourselves and others. Sharing our pain and our story (in a relationship where it is held safely) can allow us to value, respect and have compassion for all parts of ourselves. This re-integration unblocks our creative/healing potential and our sense of purpose and meaning.
01275 402712 View 01275 402712
Photo of Martin Robert Conway - Martin Conway Counselling, MSc, BACP, Counsellor
Martin Conway Counselling
Counsellor, MSc, BACP
Verified Verified
I work with a range of issues but have specialised in addiction, anxiety, depression and working with long-term illnesses.
I offer counselling in Bristol and online for individuals and couples experiencing a range of issues. I completed my Level 6 Diploma with merit and MSc in Psychology with commendation. I have worked in placements at an addiction clinic and the Wellbeing Service at the University of West of England and I have 1500+ hours of therapy experience. My experience includes (but is not limited to) stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, long-term illness and self-esteem.
I work with a range of issues but have specialised in addiction, anxiety, depression and working with long-term illnesses.
I offer counselling in Bristol and online for individuals and couples experiencing a range of issues. I completed my Level 6 Diploma with merit and MSc in Psychology with commendation. I have worked in placements at an addiction clinic and the Wellbeing Service at the University of West of England and I have 1500+ hours of therapy experience. My experience includes (but is not limited to) stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, long-term illness and self-esteem.
01275 408902 View 01275 408902
Photo of Maria Brooks, PNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Maria Brooks
Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
This experience includes working with bereavement and loss, trauma, sexual abuse, addictions, dual diagnosis, eating disorders, self-harming behaviour, relationship problems, depression and anxiety.
If you are looking for therapy in Bristol then I can help. Life can be complicated and sometimes we need support to make changes and improve the quality of our lives. Entering into counselling or psychotherapy can be one of the hardest but bravest decisions you can make for yourself. I am an Integrative Psychotherapist, Trauma, Eating Disorder and Addiction Specialist. As well as ‘talking therapy’ and 'somatic (body) work' I incorporate eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy into my practice. To treat a range of psychological issues including complex trauma and attachment issues.
This experience includes working with bereavement and loss, trauma, sexual abuse, addictions, dual diagnosis, eating disorders, self-harming behaviour, relationship problems, depression and anxiety.
If you are looking for therapy in Bristol then I can help. Life can be complicated and sometimes we need support to make changes and improve the quality of our lives. Entering into counselling or psychotherapy can be one of the hardest but bravest decisions you can make for yourself. I am an Integrative Psychotherapist, Trauma, Eating Disorder and Addiction Specialist. As well as ‘talking therapy’ and 'somatic (body) work' I incorporate eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy into my practice. To treat a range of psychological issues including complex trauma and attachment issues.
0117 456 2425 View 0117 456 2425
Photo of Lucy Hobbs, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Lucy Hobbs
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
I have been in the caring profession for many years working with adults presenting with depression, anxiety, domestic abuse issues, addiction, relationship issues, bereavement and trauma.
Hello, my name is Lucy and I am a fully qualified and insured counsellor. I work as an integrative therapist taking a person-centred and relational approach to counselling. I use a range of techniques and approaches - depending on a client's individual needs. Put simply, I'm passionate about promoting good mental health. We all need to express ourselves in a way that we want to, and at a pace that is comfortable for us. I will support you to explore and reflect upon your feelings, issues and challenges - past and present, build on your self-acceptance and gain a greater understanding of your emotional and physical wellbeing.
I have been in the caring profession for many years working with adults presenting with depression, anxiety, domestic abuse issues, addiction, relationship issues, bereavement and trauma.
Hello, my name is Lucy and I am a fully qualified and insured counsellor. I work as an integrative therapist taking a person-centred and relational approach to counselling. I use a range of techniques and approaches - depending on a client's individual needs. Put simply, I'm passionate about promoting good mental health. We all need to express ourselves in a way that we want to, and at a pace that is comfortable for us. I will support you to explore and reflect upon your feelings, issues and challenges - past and present, build on your self-acceptance and gain a greater understanding of your emotional and physical wellbeing.
01225 985700 View 01225 985700
Photo of Jenny Clarke, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Jenny Clarke
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
I offer art therapy to children, young people and adults. I have a personal interest in neurodivergence (Autism, ADHD, dyslexia and other neurodevelopmental conditions) and a SEND friendly approach. I can support children and young people who are struggling to attend school and adults who are recently diagnosed or wondering whether they are neurodivergent. I have experience of working with mental health, including anxiety and depression, dementia, addiction and bereavement. My aim is to create a safe space for you to reflect and explore your strengths, challenges and any areas which are causing you difficulty.
I offer art therapy to children, young people and adults. I have a personal interest in neurodivergence (Autism, ADHD, dyslexia and other neurodevelopmental conditions) and a SEND friendly approach. I can support children and young people who are struggling to attend school and adults who are recently diagnosed or wondering whether they are neurodivergent. I have experience of working with mental health, including anxiety and depression, dementia, addiction and bereavement. My aim is to create a safe space for you to reflect and explore your strengths, challenges and any areas which are causing you difficulty.
0117 463 1641 View 0117 463 1641
Photo of Hyunho Khang, MA, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Hyunho Khang
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
I have wide experience counselling a diverse range of clients experiencing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, loss, grief, anger issues, confidence issues, relationship difficulties, issues around sex, issues at work, ADHD, addiction, eating issues, abuse and trauma. I work in conjunction with NHS services and other health professionals to support adults in the South West. I have a particular interest in working with clients with relationship difficulties (including sex issues), clients affected by narcissism in their relationships, and clients with somatic problems including pain, chronic fatigue, ME, IBS and fibromyalgia.
I have wide experience counselling a diverse range of clients experiencing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, loss, grief, anger issues, confidence issues, relationship difficulties, issues around sex, issues at work, ADHD, addiction, eating issues, abuse and trauma. I work in conjunction with NHS services and other health professionals to support adults in the South West. I have a particular interest in working with clients with relationship difficulties (including sex issues), clients affected by narcissism in their relationships, and clients with somatic problems including pain, chronic fatigue, ME, IBS and fibromyalgia.
0117 325 2122 View 0117 325 2122
Photo of Ed Jefferson, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Ed Jefferson
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Hello! I'm Ed (he/him). Life can be hard at any time and I’m here to work alongside you with whatever you choose to bring to our sessions. I am a fully trained integrative counsellor and have previous experience working with clients who present with mental health, addiction and trauma issues. I have also volunteered with the Samaritans for two years and undertaken further CPD training around student mental health, shame, neurodiversity, trans awareness, and weight bias.
Hello! I'm Ed (he/him). Life can be hard at any time and I’m here to work alongside you with whatever you choose to bring to our sessions. I am a fully trained integrative counsellor and have previous experience working with clients who present with mental health, addiction and trauma issues. I have also volunteered with the Samaritans for two years and undertaken further CPD training around student mental health, shame, neurodiversity, trans awareness, and weight bias.
0117 463 1876 View 0117 463 1876
Photo of Hannah Paton, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Hannah Paton
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Bristol BS3  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work from a trauma informed approach, with substantial experience of understanding the impact of substance misuse.
Has your drink or drug use started to get on top of you? Are you experiencing difficulties in relationships with those around you? Have you turned to self-destructive patterns of behaviour in an attempt to cope with low mood, difficult experiences or traumatic events? If this sounds like you then my years of experience as a Counsellor in the fields of substance misuse and in healing trauma may help to heal your fragmented parts and build your own motivation to make the behavioural changes you desire. Please follow the link to my website, where you can find out more about me and the way that I work.
I work from a trauma informed approach, with substantial experience of understanding the impact of substance misuse.
Has your drink or drug use started to get on top of you? Are you experiencing difficulties in relationships with those around you? Have you turned to self-destructive patterns of behaviour in an attempt to cope with low mood, difficult experiences or traumatic events? If this sounds like you then my years of experience as a Counsellor in the fields of substance misuse and in healing trauma may help to heal your fragmented parts and build your own motivation to make the behavioural changes you desire. Please follow the link to my website, where you can find out more about me and the way that I work.
0117 456 2367 View 0117 456 2367
Photo of Belén Plaza Higueras - EMDR, PSYCH-K, CBT, EFT, Bach flowers, Homeopathy , MSc, GMBPsS, Psychotherapist
EMDR, PSYCH-K, CBT, EFT, Bach flowers, Homeopathy
Psychotherapist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Sc Psychology; Dipl in Advanced Studies (part of PhD) Addiction behaviour; EMDR Level II.
I believe that we all have the potential to heal ourselves. Are you aware that you have a negative mental state at work or in relationships? Is it persistent, or do you feel stressed, anxious, depressed, worried, and have a low level of liveliness? I can support you to find pathways to overcome these limitations. I am a compassionate integrative psychotherapist. I offer EMDR- 2013, Psych-K!, Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy CBT, EFT, Mindfulness. Homeopathy (4 y), Bach flowers (BFP). I can help you to transform your life’s limitations arising from anxiety/ trauma, Personal, sleeping, relationships, work difficulties & others.
Sc Psychology; Dipl in Advanced Studies (part of PhD) Addiction behaviour; EMDR Level II.
I believe that we all have the potential to heal ourselves. Are you aware that you have a negative mental state at work or in relationships? Is it persistent, or do you feel stressed, anxious, depressed, worried, and have a low level of liveliness? I can support you to find pathways to overcome these limitations. I am a compassionate integrative psychotherapist. I offer EMDR- 2013, Psych-K!, Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy CBT, EFT, Mindfulness. Homeopathy (4 y), Bach flowers (BFP). I can help you to transform your life’s limitations arising from anxiety/ trauma, Personal, sleeping, relationships, work difficulties & others.
0117 374 7699 View 0117 374 7699
Photo of Sam Cox, MBACP, Counsellor
Sam Cox
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS3  (Online Only)
I offer a free 15 minute consultation, so that you can gain an understanding of how I can help. Together, we will explore your feelings and behaviours, and build on taking you to a place that feels right for you. Our work will be at a pace which suits you, in a safe space where the relationship of counsellor and client is at the core of the therapeutic process. We will work in collaboration to gain a greater understanding of your experiences, feelings, behaviours, and needs. I work as an integrative psychotherapist, which is both person-centred, and psychodynamic.
I offer a free 15 minute consultation, so that you can gain an understanding of how I can help. Together, we will explore your feelings and behaviours, and build on taking you to a place that feels right for you. Our work will be at a pace which suits you, in a safe space where the relationship of counsellor and client is at the core of the therapeutic process. We will work in collaboration to gain a greater understanding of your experiences, feelings, behaviours, and needs. I work as an integrative psychotherapist, which is both person-centred, and psychodynamic.
020 4538 9744 View 020 4538 9744
Photo of Michele Louise Greville - Awareness Counselling and Supervision, MBACP, Counsellor
Awareness Counselling and Supervision
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
This might mean learning new skills, working safely through past trauma, changing old coping strategies such as addictions, unhealthy behaviour patterns.
If you have experienced trauma as a result of your past and you find that is affecting you and your relationships in the present, I can help you gently explore these difficulties and support you to make the changes you need to make. Through childhood experiences and life events we try to fit into the world we live in. From very early on we tend to adapt ourselves to meet the needs of others, to be loved, liked and accepted. We twist and manage ourselves into expected ways of being and mask what is really going on for us. In doing this we lose the sense of who we are before we ever know.
This might mean learning new skills, working safely through past trauma, changing old coping strategies such as addictions, unhealthy behaviour patterns.
If you have experienced trauma as a result of your past and you find that is affecting you and your relationships in the present, I can help you gently explore these difficulties and support you to make the changes you need to make. Through childhood experiences and life events we try to fit into the world we live in. From very early on we tend to adapt ourselves to meet the needs of others, to be loved, liked and accepted. We twist and manage ourselves into expected ways of being and mask what is really going on for us. In doing this we lose the sense of who we are before we ever know.
0117 463 0384 View 0117 463 0384
Photo of Andrew Meader, MBACP, Counsellor
Andrew Meader
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
We all experience difficulties at one time or another. It could be that our relationships aren’t all we'd like them to be. Or perhaps we feel anxious, depressed, lonely, or we’re grieving a loss. Perhaps we behave in ways that we'd rather not, or that we don't understand. Or maybe life has lost its meaning, we've lost our sense of direction, feel stuck, or just don't know who we are any more. Counselling offers a safe, confidential space in which to explore such issues in relationship with someone who is skilled, non-judgemental, and really there for you. A space in which to come to terms with things, and allow them to change.
We all experience difficulties at one time or another. It could be that our relationships aren’t all we'd like them to be. Or perhaps we feel anxious, depressed, lonely, or we’re grieving a loss. Perhaps we behave in ways that we'd rather not, or that we don't understand. Or maybe life has lost its meaning, we've lost our sense of direction, feel stuck, or just don't know who we are any more. Counselling offers a safe, confidential space in which to explore such issues in relationship with someone who is skilled, non-judgemental, and really there for you. A space in which to come to terms with things, and allow them to change.
01275 402957 View 01275 402957
Photo of Ruth Taylor, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Ruth Taylor
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Experiences in life can sometimes prevent us from living our life as fully as we would like to or in the way we wish. Anxiety, depression and other issues can leave us feeling confused and stuck, unable to move forward and take charge of our lives. ​ I offer one-one counselling in a private, confidential and safe space. This can help you explore and understand your experiences, your feelings and your thoughts. It can help you consider and deal with the dilemmas and decisions you face and it can help you understand your patterns, to see new perspectives for your future and to regain the confidence to make the changes you want to. ​
Experiences in life can sometimes prevent us from living our life as fully as we would like to or in the way we wish. Anxiety, depression and other issues can leave us feeling confused and stuck, unable to move forward and take charge of our lives. ​ I offer one-one counselling in a private, confidential and safe space. This can help you explore and understand your experiences, your feelings and your thoughts. It can help you consider and deal with the dilemmas and decisions you face and it can help you understand your patterns, to see new perspectives for your future and to regain the confidence to make the changes you want to. ​
0117 456 2423 View 0117 456 2423
Photo of Lisa Bird, MBACP, Counsellor
Lisa Bird
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Navigating life can sometimes be challenging, invoking painful emotions and ways of coping and adapting, which may cause further pain. You may be experiencing difficult emotions, poor mental or physical health and/or been affected by significant life events, which are impacting your day-to-day life and your connection to yourself and others. You may be looking for a safe place to process your past and present experiences and feelings, without fear of judgement.
Navigating life can sometimes be challenging, invoking painful emotions and ways of coping and adapting, which may cause further pain. You may be experiencing difficult emotions, poor mental or physical health and/or been affected by significant life events, which are impacting your day-to-day life and your connection to yourself and others. You may be looking for a safe place to process your past and present experiences and feelings, without fear of judgement.
0117 463 0072 View 0117 463 0072
Photo of Jamie N Bird, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Jamie N Bird
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked for many years helping my clients to accept themselves for who they are and how they survive in the hidden world that goes on inside their heads, the world where fear holds them back and keeps them stuck. The world we are all familiar with, the place we go when we put our heads on our pillows at night and we know! I believe that through honest exploration, reflection and acceptance of our past, we can start to accept ourselves and begin to build our self-esteem, self respect, our confidence and compassion for ourselves. We can embrace the parts of us that work and let go of the parts that don't, we can change.
I have worked for many years helping my clients to accept themselves for who they are and how they survive in the hidden world that goes on inside their heads, the world where fear holds them back and keeps them stuck. The world we are all familiar with, the place we go when we put our heads on our pillows at night and we know! I believe that through honest exploration, reflection and acceptance of our past, we can start to accept ourselves and begin to build our self-esteem, self respect, our confidence and compassion for ourselves. We can embrace the parts of us that work and let go of the parts that don't, we can change.
0117 463 1826 View 0117 463 1826
Photo of Jessica Aldridge - Jessica Aldridge Therapy, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Jessica Aldridge Therapy
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sometimes life can begin to feel challenging and painful, impacting your inner and outer world. This could be instigated by past traumas, current distressing circumstances or a long-standing mental health condition. Maybe you cannot identify what feels out of place but know that you would like support to explore these emotions and work towards a place of healing. The prospect of entering into therapy can feel like an overwhelming decision, especially in choosing what will best suit your needs. I believe the therapeutic relationship is of the utmost importance, enabling trust and respect, ultimately resulting in lasting change.
Sometimes life can begin to feel challenging and painful, impacting your inner and outer world. This could be instigated by past traumas, current distressing circumstances or a long-standing mental health condition. Maybe you cannot identify what feels out of place but know that you would like support to explore these emotions and work towards a place of healing. The prospect of entering into therapy can feel like an overwhelming decision, especially in choosing what will best suit your needs. I believe the therapeutic relationship is of the utmost importance, enabling trust and respect, ultimately resulting in lasting change.
0117 463 2477 View 0117 463 2477
Photo of Lana Lynn Mareno - BS2Therapy Rooms, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
BS2Therapy Rooms
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Humanistically recognising the needs of an individual ,we see how trauma can be held at a very deep level. Working from the story of an individuals early negative & positive childhood experiences and using Integrative therapy in a number of ways to help the process of getting to one's core beliefs, helps to create a safe space for them to explore and release old patterns. This happens by building a trust with the client to allow their vulnerability to come through. Then, looking at the blocks or defences, via counselling and body Psychotherapy, a unique holistic approach to wellbeing, allows the journey back to health.
Humanistically recognising the needs of an individual ,we see how trauma can be held at a very deep level. Working from the story of an individuals early negative & positive childhood experiences and using Integrative therapy in a number of ways to help the process of getting to one's core beliefs, helps to create a safe space for them to explore and release old patterns. This happens by building a trust with the client to allow their vulnerability to come through. Then, looking at the blocks or defences, via counselling and body Psychotherapy, a unique holistic approach to wellbeing, allows the journey back to health.
0117 325 3721 View 0117 325 3721
Photo of Kerry Rawlings - Heart to Heart Bristol, MBACP, Counsellor
Heart to Heart Bristol
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
We understand that everyone has their own story to tell and that life's experiences can sometimes be a struggle to hold. Do you want to feel herd and dont no where to go or even where to start? Counselling may be the place for you. We are here to offer a safe, non-judgmental space to talk about and explore your concerns and issues. Counselling offers you the chance to gain a more secure sense of self. Working together with a counsellor can provide you with the tools to take control of your struggles and lighten the weight you carry.
We understand that everyone has their own story to tell and that life's experiences can sometimes be a struggle to hold. Do you want to feel herd and dont no where to go or even where to start? Counselling may be the place for you. We are here to offer a safe, non-judgmental space to talk about and explore your concerns and issues. Counselling offers you the chance to gain a more secure sense of self. Working together with a counsellor can provide you with the tools to take control of your struggles and lighten the weight you carry.
0117 325 7405 View 0117 325 7405
Photo of Leanne Thomas, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Leanne Thomas
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
We all have times in our lives when we feel overwhelmed. This can impact on our relationships and other areas of our lives. These feelings may make it difficult to reach our potential or know how to progress. Counselling offers a reflective space which is helpful for building self-awareness in order to work through past or present life challenges. I employ a flexible approach which is informed by your needs. I draw on different theories to create a style of therapy which is individually tailored to you, and your aims. I hope to provide an open and accepting, and genuinely safe and non-judgemental space to reflect without fear.
We all have times in our lives when we feel overwhelmed. This can impact on our relationships and other areas of our lives. These feelings may make it difficult to reach our potential or know how to progress. Counselling offers a reflective space which is helpful for building self-awareness in order to work through past or present life challenges. I employ a flexible approach which is informed by your needs. I draw on different theories to create a style of therapy which is individually tailored to you, and your aims. I hope to provide an open and accepting, and genuinely safe and non-judgemental space to reflect without fear.
0117 456 2204 View 0117 456 2204
Photo of Hannah Byrne - Sapling CBT (cbt, emdr, btti for tics) , MSc
Thank you for taking the time to view my profile. I am a specialist Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist. My professional background is Educational Psychology, trauma and attachment therapy with 18 years experience supporting families. I help people aged 8- 24 who have experienced trauma, anxiety, low mood tics and care experienced young people. We will work together to build a bespoke treatment plan, I believe we all have the potential for positive wellbeing, I will work with you to uncover what this means to you. Weekly clinic held in Bath and Bristol and online.
Thank you for taking the time to view my profile. I am a specialist Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist. My professional background is Educational Psychology, trauma and attachment therapy with 18 years experience supporting families. I help people aged 8- 24 who have experienced trauma, anxiety, low mood tics and care experienced young people. We will work together to build a bespoke treatment plan, I believe we all have the potential for positive wellbeing, I will work with you to uncover what this means to you. Weekly clinic held in Bath and Bristol and online.
0117 325 4798 View 0117 325 4798
1

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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.