Photo of brighter pathways, Counsellor in Bristol, England
brighter pathways
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS32
I am a qualified counsellor and teacher, I have studied Counselling and Substance Misuse at FdSc level and have a Diploma in Social Work, as well as having a wide range of work and life experience. My down to earth nature empowers me to be accessible, approachable and non-judgmental which is an essential part of a successful working therapeutic relationship. Aiding people to work through their own life challenges is my absolute passion and driving force behind Brighter Pathways Counselling.
I am a qualified counsellor and teacher, I have studied Counselling and Substance Misuse at FdSc level and have a Diploma in Social Work, as well as having a wide range of work and life experience. My down to earth nature empowers me to be accessible, approachable and non-judgmental which is an essential part of a successful working therapeutic relationship. Aiding people to work through their own life challenges is my absolute passion and driving force behind Brighter Pathways Counselling.
0117 456 2551 View 0117 456 2551
Photo of Maria Brooks, Psychotherapist in Bristol, England
Maria Brooks
Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS8
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.
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 Martin Conway Counselling, Counsellor in Bristol, England
Martin Conway Counselling
Counsellor, MSc, BACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS3
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 Lucy Hobbs, Counsellor in Bristol, England
Lucy Hobbs
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS14
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 Fiona Clare Hayden, Counsellor in Bristol, England
Fiona Clare Hayden
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS16
I have been a counsellor for nearly ten years and within that time I have an extensive knowledge of most difficulties. I initially trained on placement for 2 years alongside my diploma within the Swan Project they specialise in Addiction and Trauma. I have successfully worked with many clients but not limited to Addiction, Trauma, ADHD, Autism, LGBTQIA, Childhood sex abuse, Childhood neglect, Domestic violence, Rape, PTSD and Eating disorders. I particularly enjoy working with neurodiversity including teenagers as I have my own personal journey and I feel this helps add an extra layer of empathy and understanding.
I have been a counsellor for nearly ten years and within that time I have an extensive knowledge of most difficulties. I initially trained on placement for 2 years alongside my diploma within the Swan Project they specialise in Addiction and Trauma. I have successfully worked with many clients but not limited to Addiction, Trauma, ADHD, Autism, LGBTQIA, Childhood sex abuse, Childhood neglect, Domestic violence, Rape, PTSD and Eating disorders. I particularly enjoy working with neurodiversity including teenagers as I have my own personal journey and I feel this helps add an extra layer of empathy and understanding.
07938 763578 View 07938 763578
Photo of Tracy Blackmore, Counsellor in Bristol, England
Tracy Blackmore
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS8
Addiction can be life threatening, create fear and shame and often mask underlining issues, while creating further distress. Treatment needs an informed understanding, education, support and gentle challenge. As a lead therapist in a prestigious rehab, I manage other counsellors and work with clients bringing a specialism of trauma into the treatment of addiction. This weaves through the work in my private practice. My training, studies and experience, both professionally and personally has taken me toward looking at addiction as a symptom of psychological trauma.
Addiction can be life threatening, create fear and shame and often mask underlining issues, while creating further distress. Treatment needs an informed understanding, education, support and gentle challenge. As a lead therapist in a prestigious rehab, I manage other counsellors and work with clients bringing a specialism of trauma into the treatment of addiction. This weaves through the work in my private practice. My training, studies and experience, both professionally and personally has taken me toward looking at addiction as a symptom of psychological trauma.
01736 808732 View 01736 808732
Photo of EMDR, PSYCH-K, CBT, EFT, Bach flowers, Homeopathy , Psychotherapist in Bristol, England
EMDR, PSYCH-K, CBT, EFT, Bach flowers, Homeopathy
Psychotherapist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS5
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 Hyunho Khang, Psychotherapist in Bristol, England
Hyunho Khang
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1
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, addiction, eating issues, abuse, trauma and autism. 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, addiction, eating issues, abuse, trauma and autism. 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 Hermione Moore, Counsellor in Bristol, England
Hermione Moore
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS6
We'll explore what's troubling you and who you are in relation to it- whether it's relationship difficulties, abuse, depression, anxiety, disordered eating, addiction, grief, loss or stress.
We are all confronted with some sort of struggle at times in our lives. Sometimes the source might feel obvious to us or maybe we might have begun to notice things have been 'off' for a while and it's hard to make sense of. We can be left feeling confused, lonely, disconnected from ourselves and unfulfilled in our lives. It's hard to understand what's going on, maybe things start to feel out of control or tough to manage alone. Naturally, we want to get a grasp of what's happened and take back some control of our lives so we can move in the direction we want for ourselves.
We'll explore what's troubling you and who you are in relation to it- whether it's relationship difficulties, abuse, depression, anxiety, disordered eating, addiction, grief, loss or stress.
We are all confronted with some sort of struggle at times in our lives. Sometimes the source might feel obvious to us or maybe we might have begun to notice things have been 'off' for a while and it's hard to make sense of. We can be left feeling confused, lonely, disconnected from ourselves and unfulfilled in our lives. It's hard to understand what's going on, maybe things start to feel out of control or tough to manage alone. Naturally, we want to get a grasp of what's happened and take back some control of our lives so we can move in the direction we want for ourselves.
0117 463 0363 View 0117 463 0363
Photo of Lindsay Hughes, Counsellor in Bristol, England
Lindsay Hughes
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS8
Life can sometimes feel overwhelming and it can be a struggle to cope with life’s challenges…you’re not alone. I am Lindsay, a psychotherapeutic counsellor, working in Bristol, Bath and online. You may have experienced a traumatic event or experienced many years of trauma and struggling to understand your emotions. You maybe trying to manage anxiety, depression or addiction. I will listen and you will feel heard. I am a warm, down to earth and empathic counsellor, offering a safe space for you to explore whatever it is that is causing you distress. I will work with you to explore you’re feelings, heal and move forward.
Life can sometimes feel overwhelming and it can be a struggle to cope with life’s challenges…you’re not alone. I am Lindsay, a psychotherapeutic counsellor, working in Bristol, Bath and online. You may have experienced a traumatic event or experienced many years of trauma and struggling to understand your emotions. You maybe trying to manage anxiety, depression or addiction. I will listen and you will feel heard. I am a warm, down to earth and empathic counsellor, offering a safe space for you to explore whatever it is that is causing you distress. I will work with you to explore you’re feelings, heal and move forward.
01225 438416 View 01225 438416
Photo of Dannie Lee, Counsellor in Bristol, England
Dannie Lee
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Bristol BS8
I work with a range of issues including stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, self-criticism, loneliness, relationship difficulties, body image issues, life changes, trauma, self-harm and addiction.
If you’re struggling or finding things difficult, you’re not alone. Maybe you feel stuck, confused or overwhelmed. Maybe you feel lost, alone or disconnected from life, yourself or the people around you. Maybe you lack purpose or meaning in your life. Maybe you don't really know what the problem is but would like some support. I am here to listen, support and encourage you as you explore the issues you face, help you understand yourself better and see things more clearly. I can help you work through difficult thoughts and feelings, and find ways to manage them so they have less impact on your life and wellbeing.
I work with a range of issues including stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, self-criticism, loneliness, relationship difficulties, body image issues, life changes, trauma, self-harm and addiction.
If you’re struggling or finding things difficult, you’re not alone. Maybe you feel stuck, confused or overwhelmed. Maybe you feel lost, alone or disconnected from life, yourself or the people around you. Maybe you lack purpose or meaning in your life. Maybe you don't really know what the problem is but would like some support. I am here to listen, support and encourage you as you explore the issues you face, help you understand yourself better and see things more clearly. I can help you work through difficult thoughts and feelings, and find ways to manage them so they have less impact on your life and wellbeing.
07960 692464 View 07960 692464
Photo of Toby Messer, Counsellor in Bristol, England
Toby Messer
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bristol BS13  (Online Only)
I am a clinical psychotherapist specialising in multiple approaches including trauma therapy. I am an accredited member of the NCPS register. I currently work internationally online operating from a range of modalities including CBT, REBT and CAT and hold a integrative approach. As a therapist I have clinical experience working with adults with a range of issues including Trauma, attachment injuries, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, gaming addictions, substance misuse, sexual abuse, domestic violence.
I am a clinical psychotherapist specialising in multiple approaches including trauma therapy. I am an accredited member of the NCPS register. I currently work internationally online operating from a range of modalities including CBT, REBT and CAT and hold a integrative approach. As a therapist I have clinical experience working with adults with a range of issues including Trauma, attachment injuries, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, gaming addictions, substance misuse, sexual abuse, domestic violence.
01446 501258 View 01446 501258
Photo of Natasha Menoni: ADHD & Autism Specialist, Psychologist in Bristol, England
Natasha Menoni: ADHD & Autism Specialist
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My expertise acknowledges challenges neurodivergent individuals may encounter including: anxiety, social anxiety, depression, addiction, anger management, autistic burnout, OCD, motivation challenges, low self esteem, suicidal ideation, eating disorders, trauma.
I am an HCPC registered Counselling Psychologist dedicated to serving adults who have been diagnosed or believe they might have Autism and/or ADHD. I invite you to work together on a therapeutic journey especially catered to your goals and needs. We can work together to identify and make the most out of your own unique strengths, establish robust coping strategies, and build self-awareness to develop a greater understanding of yourself so you can live a more fulfilling life.
My expertise acknowledges challenges neurodivergent individuals may encounter including: anxiety, social anxiety, depression, addiction, anger management, autistic burnout, OCD, motivation challenges, low self esteem, suicidal ideation, eating disorders, trauma.
I am an HCPC registered Counselling Psychologist dedicated to serving adults who have been diagnosed or believe they might have Autism and/or ADHD. I invite you to work together on a therapeutic journey especially catered to your goals and needs. We can work together to identify and make the most out of your own unique strengths, establish robust coping strategies, and build self-awareness to develop a greater understanding of yourself so you can live a more fulfilling life.
View
Photo of Annette Wyndham, Psychologist in Bristol, England
Annette Wyndham
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS8  (Online Only)
I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most important ingredient for successful therapy. Together we can explore your situation from various perspectives allowing us to make sense of it and develop some solutions. I have 30 years experience of working in the NHS working with a diverse range of problems, most of this has been within Adult mental health, substance misuse and family therapy teams. I have a particular interest in trauma, from complex childhood and relational trauma to one off incidents or accidents or life change and transitional traumas.
I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most important ingredient for successful therapy. Together we can explore your situation from various perspectives allowing us to make sense of it and develop some solutions. I have 30 years experience of working in the NHS working with a diverse range of problems, most of this has been within Adult mental health, substance misuse and family therapy teams. I have a particular interest in trauma, from complex childhood and relational trauma to one off incidents or accidents or life change and transitional traumas.
01656 339557 View 01656 339557
Photo of Sally Pinkus Dip Couns And Cbt. Online Counselling., Counsellor in Bristol, England
Sally Pinkus Dip Couns And Cbt. Online Counselling.
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS1  (Online Only)
I have worked for many years with clients struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, Substance Misuse, Eating Disorders and much more.
Hi, I'm Sally. I have worked in the field of mental health and substance misuse for over 15 years, using various types of therapy such as CBT, Talking Therapy, Psychodynamic plus other methods suited to any particular client. I offer online counselling sessions only, by way of telephone or video call. I have a warm, kind and welcoming personality and will help you to work through your issues at your pace. You are welcome to have sessions weekly or alternate weeks on Microsoft Teams or whichever platform you prefer.
I have worked for many years with clients struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, Substance Misuse, Eating Disorders and much more.
Hi, I'm Sally. I have worked in the field of mental health and substance misuse for over 15 years, using various types of therapy such as CBT, Talking Therapy, Psychodynamic plus other methods suited to any particular client. I offer online counselling sessions only, by way of telephone or video call. I have a warm, kind and welcoming personality and will help you to work through your issues at your pace. You are welcome to have sessions weekly or alternate weeks on Microsoft Teams or whichever platform you prefer.
01706 390397 View 01706 390397
Photo of JDJCounselling For You!, Counsellor in Bristol, England
JDJCounselling For You!
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS1
Sex Addiction and Compulsivity.
The overall aim of Counselling and Therapy is to provide an opportunity for you to work towards living by where experiences are more satisfying. The process of Counselling becomes itself one of life's new situations: It offers an opportunity to experience life differently and to extend the range of ways in which you can operate in the world with greater satisfaction. "EVERY JOURNEY STARTS WITH ONE SMALL STEP"!!!!
Sex Addiction and Compulsivity.
The overall aim of Counselling and Therapy is to provide an opportunity for you to work towards living by where experiences are more satisfying. The process of Counselling becomes itself one of life's new situations: It offers an opportunity to experience life differently and to extend the range of ways in which you can operate in the world with greater satisfaction. "EVERY JOURNEY STARTS WITH ONE SMALL STEP"!!!!
029 2167 3089 View 029 2167 3089
Photo of Rebecca Claire Scott-Brown, Counsellor in Bristol, England
Rebecca Claire Scott-Brown
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS48
I work with clients who have the following problems; relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, loss & seperation, trauma, addiction, sexual issues
I work with clients who have the following problems; relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, loss & seperation, trauma, addiction, sexual issues
0117 325 2326 View 0117 325 2326
Photo of Emily Hall, Counsellor in Bristol, England
Emily Hall
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS20
I have experience working with a wide variety of people struggling with many different challenges including: anxiety, depression, low self-worth, addiction, loss, grief, bereavement, trauma, PTSD, flashbacks, relationship difficulties, loneliness, and childhood issues.
Everyone needs to feel valued, understood and connected, and yet throughout life there can be times when we face challenges, struggles, or difficulties. These are the times when counselling can offer a safe and confidential place where you have the chance to share and explore your feelings. I offer a calm, welcoming, and compassionate space where you will be listened to without judgement, and with empathy and understanding. Led by you, we can work together, using reflection and exploration to help develop and enhance your own unique strengths and create opportunities for growth and positive change.
I have experience working with a wide variety of people struggling with many different challenges including: anxiety, depression, low self-worth, addiction, loss, grief, bereavement, trauma, PTSD, flashbacks, relationship difficulties, loneliness, and childhood issues.
Everyone needs to feel valued, understood and connected, and yet throughout life there can be times when we face challenges, struggles, or difficulties. These are the times when counselling can offer a safe and confidential place where you have the chance to share and explore your feelings. I offer a calm, welcoming, and compassionate space where you will be listened to without judgement, and with empathy and understanding. Led by you, we can work together, using reflection and exploration to help develop and enhance your own unique strengths and create opportunities for growth and positive change.
07480 639146 View 07480 639146
Photo of Steve Moore, Counsellor in Bristol, England
Steve Moore
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS8
So often in our lives we reach a place where we are struggling in some capacity or another. It may be a deep-rooted issue that goes back to childhood, a past relationship or a trauma. It may be some destructive behaviour such as a form of self-harm or an eating disorder. It may be a negative thought process that is having an impact on our daily life. Whatever the issue, I believe counselling can help. Having a place where we can allow ourselves time and a calm space to think, talk and work things out can be absolutely priceless.
So often in our lives we reach a place where we are struggling in some capacity or another. It may be a deep-rooted issue that goes back to childhood, a past relationship or a trauma. It may be some destructive behaviour such as a form of self-harm or an eating disorder. It may be a negative thought process that is having an impact on our daily life. Whatever the issue, I believe counselling can help. Having a place where we can allow ourselves time and a calm space to think, talk and work things out can be absolutely priceless.
0117 325 4265 View 0117 325 4265
Photo of Jessica Aldridge Therapy, Counsellor in Bristol, England
Jessica Aldridge Therapy
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bristol BS6
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

See more therapy options for Bristol

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.