Photo of Natalie Carter-Gibson, Psychotherapist in Northwich, England
Natalie Carter-Gibson
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Northwich CW8
I work with clients using techniques from different therapy methods from person centred, behavioural to CBT and solution focused and IFS. My focus is on the person in front of me and where they are at that moment. Any client arrives with an idea of what they want to look at, but the journey that follows is unique and generally directed by the client's needs. The difference can be evident so quickly once we move together towards a clearer understanding of how to move forward from the place the client began - its fulfilling and rewarding for all involved
I work with clients using techniques from different therapy methods from person centred, behavioural to CBT and solution focused and IFS. My focus is on the person in front of me and where they are at that moment. Any client arrives with an idea of what they want to look at, but the journey that follows is unique and generally directed by the client's needs. The difference can be evident so quickly once we move together towards a clearer understanding of how to move forward from the place the client began - its fulfilling and rewarding for all involved
01270 447578 View 01270 447578
Photo of Sarah Bennett, Counsellor in Northwich, England
Sarah Bennett
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Northwich CW8  (Online Only)
My name is Sarah , I hold Accredited Registrant membership of The National Counselling Society & I am able to support adults, couples, teenage/adolescent clients from the age of 11 and also accept 3rd party referrals for employee counselling. I am qualified and experienced to support clients in a range of issues such as: Depression Bereavement Relationships Counselling Loss Divorce Anger Negative Thinking Intrusive Thoughts Loneliness Eating Disorders Issues with Food, Pregnancy and Infant Loss Anxiety Management, Alcohol, Smoking and more
My name is Sarah , I hold Accredited Registrant membership of The National Counselling Society & I am able to support adults, couples, teenage/adolescent clients from the age of 11 and also accept 3rd party referrals for employee counselling. I am qualified and experienced to support clients in a range of issues such as: Depression Bereavement Relationships Counselling Loss Divorce Anger Negative Thinking Intrusive Thoughts Loneliness Eating Disorders Issues with Food, Pregnancy and Infant Loss Anxiety Management, Alcohol, Smoking and more
01270 444996 View 01270 444996

More Therapists Nearby

VJM Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Warrington WA1  (Online Only)
Hi I'm Vicky and I am a counsellor based in Warrington, Cheshire. I have experience in working with individuals struggling with addiction, trauma, bereavement & anxiety. I use an integrative approach which is mainly person centred and I will bring in other aspects of therapy such as mindfulness to tailor the sessions to your needs. This will help you to lead the sessions and equip you with tools and strategies to help you manage day-to-day. I'm BACP registered and comply to their ethical framework.
Hi I'm Vicky and I am a counsellor based in Warrington, Cheshire. I have experience in working with individuals struggling with addiction, trauma, bereavement & anxiety. I use an integrative approach which is mainly person centred and I will bring in other aspects of therapy such as mindfulness to tailor the sessions to your needs. This will help you to lead the sessions and equip you with tools and strategies to help you manage day-to-day. I'm BACP registered and comply to their ethical framework.
01942 559569 View 01942 559569
Photo of UK Addiction Treatment Centres (UKAT) in Northwich, England
UK Addiction Treatment Centres (UKAT)
Verified Verified
Runcorn WA7
Why choose UKAT? 160 beds across the UK; treatment for all addictions, including process addictions, eating disorders, age 16-18 treatment and dual diagnosis. Ranging from luxurious en-suite rehabs with gyms and on-site medical units to affordable rehabs. Catering for people from all walks of life. All rehabs have 24/7 on-site addiction professionals, ensuring clients have the highest level of care offered in the country. UKAT always addresses the individual as a whole and will tailor treatment to the addiction and long-term recovery of the client. All UKAT centres have a family programme dedicated to helping family members.
Why choose UKAT? 160 beds across the UK; treatment for all addictions, including process addictions, eating disorders, age 16-18 treatment and dual diagnosis. Ranging from luxurious en-suite rehabs with gyms and on-site medical units to affordable rehabs. Catering for people from all walks of life. All rehabs have 24/7 on-site addiction professionals, ensuring clients have the highest level of care offered in the country. UKAT always addresses the individual as a whole and will tailor treatment to the addiction and long-term recovery of the client. All UKAT centres have a family programme dedicated to helping family members.
020 3872 2432 View 020 3872 2432
Photo of Ashdales Therapy, Counsellor in Northwich, England
Ashdales Therapy
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Warrington WA1
Hi, I'm Dave and I'm a fully qualified Integrative Counsellor. What I aim to provide, is a safe environment for you to explore any area of your life. I offer a free telephone consultation and a free 20 minute initial consultation, this would be to explain what counselling is and the process, commitment and fees involved. Sessions are confidential and the aim being to build a therapeutic relationship that can lead to change. Over the years I have come to recognize connection is so important in our lives, often anxiety, depression, addiction and emotional issues can lead us to disconnect from those around us.
Hi, I'm Dave and I'm a fully qualified Integrative Counsellor. What I aim to provide, is a safe environment for you to explore any area of your life. I offer a free telephone consultation and a free 20 minute initial consultation, this would be to explain what counselling is and the process, commitment and fees involved. Sessions are confidential and the aim being to build a therapeutic relationship that can lead to change. Over the years I have come to recognize connection is so important in our lives, often anxiety, depression, addiction and emotional issues can lead us to disconnect from those around us.
07480 782103 View 07480 782103
Photo of Estelle Dooley, Psychotherapist in Northwich, England
Estelle Dooley
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Helsby WA6  (Online Only)
I offer a warm, empathic, confidential space for you to explore safely a current situation, something from your past, or a future concern. I will help and support you through. Accredited Award-Winning Therapist and Coach with 18 years of experience in Mental health, Abuse, Grief, Addiction, & more just ask. You will gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your situation, with all the tools you need to make positive changes in your life leaving you feeling empowered, and strong. See my reviews from clients who already have by visiting my website www.estelledooley.com.
I offer a warm, empathic, confidential space for you to explore safely a current situation, something from your past, or a future concern. I will help and support you through. Accredited Award-Winning Therapist and Coach with 18 years of experience in Mental health, Abuse, Grief, Addiction, & more just ask. You will gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your situation, with all the tools you need to make positive changes in your life leaving you feeling empowered, and strong. See my reviews from clients who already have by visiting my website www.estelledooley.com.
0151 317 2573 View 0151 317 2573
Photo of Suzie Li, Counsellor in Northwich, England
Suzie Li
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Runcorn WA7  (Online Only)
Seeking support for challenges like addiction, depression, anxiety, body image, work-related issues, gender identity, or career guidance? I'm committed to a collaborative approach to identify and understand the root causes.
Struggling with emotional challenges or seeking personal growth? As a compassionate counsellor, I'm committed to helping you lead a more fulfilling life. In our sessions, we'll collaboratively explore the impacts of your environment, experiences, and relationships on your choices. Specialising in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and relationship issues, I cater to both young people and adults. I also guide in achieving a healthy work-life balance. If professional advancement is your goal, my executive coaching services are here to assist. Let's start this healing and empowering journey together.
Seeking support for challenges like addiction, depression, anxiety, body image, work-related issues, gender identity, or career guidance? I'm committed to a collaborative approach to identify and understand the root causes.
Struggling with emotional challenges or seeking personal growth? As a compassionate counsellor, I'm committed to helping you lead a more fulfilling life. In our sessions, we'll collaboratively explore the impacts of your environment, experiences, and relationships on your choices. Specialising in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and relationship issues, I cater to both young people and adults. I also guide in achieving a healthy work-life balance. If professional advancement is your goal, my executive coaching services are here to assist. Let's start this healing and empowering journey together.
07927 710050 View 07927 710050
Julie Ashworth
Counsellor, PsychD, MBACP
Verified Verified
Warrington WA1
I work with individuals, couples and families with experience in managing anxiety & stress, bereavement, depression, relationship/family issues, child/adolescent clients, cancer support, post traumatic stress disorder/trauma, pregnancy & birth, abuse, addiction, sexual and transgender, anger & self harm.
Hi, my name is Julie. I am a professional Counsellor and Supervisor and an member of the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP) and the National Counselling Society. I provide a confidential, counselling service to meet your individual needs providing a safe, non-judgemental environment where you can work at your own pace in a place of safety and comfort where your feelings and emotions can be expressed and explored. I offer support and understanding in a non-critical way and appreciate and respect differences and diversity in culture, ethnicity, race, gender, sexuality, physical ability and spirituality
I work with individuals, couples and families with experience in managing anxiety & stress, bereavement, depression, relationship/family issues, child/adolescent clients, cancer support, post traumatic stress disorder/trauma, pregnancy & birth, abuse, addiction, sexual and transgender, anger & self harm.
Hi, my name is Julie. I am a professional Counsellor and Supervisor and an member of the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP) and the National Counselling Society. I provide a confidential, counselling service to meet your individual needs providing a safe, non-judgemental environment where you can work at your own pace in a place of safety and comfort where your feelings and emotions can be expressed and explored. I offer support and understanding in a non-critical way and appreciate and respect differences and diversity in culture, ethnicity, race, gender, sexuality, physical ability and spirituality
01925 938944 View 01925 938944
Photo of Newid Integrated Counselling & Psychotherapy, Counsellor in Northwich, England
Newid Integrated Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tiverton CW6
What I can help with Abortion Abuse – Emotional, Physical, Sexual Addiction.
Newid pronounced "Nowed" is Welsh for change. I chose this name not only to reflect my heritage but also to reflect that change is the only constant in life. We all travel with it, yet all our experiences can be profoundly different. I believe that counselling is a collaborative process in which we work together on what you want to change or explore in a safe non-judgemental environment. I offer an integrative approach where we work side-by-side to understand your past and help you discover new ways of coping and moving forward. I recognise that courage is not fearless and making the 1st step can be challenging in it's self.
What I can help with Abortion Abuse – Emotional, Physical, Sexual Addiction.
Newid pronounced "Nowed" is Welsh for change. I chose this name not only to reflect my heritage but also to reflect that change is the only constant in life. We all travel with it, yet all our experiences can be profoundly different. I believe that counselling is a collaborative process in which we work together on what you want to change or explore in a safe non-judgemental environment. I offer an integrative approach where we work side-by-side to understand your past and help you discover new ways of coping and moving forward. I recognise that courage is not fearless and making the 1st step can be challenging in it's self.
01884 219224 View 01884 219224
Photo of Judith Holland, Counsellor in Northwich, England
Judith Holland
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Warrington WA1
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the most important aspect of therapy. To provide a space where you feel safe, respected and never judged. I am an trained in various therapies including cbt therapy. Sometimes life throws us a curve ball and getting up everyday and doing everyday things is a struggle sometimes we need someone to walk through the dark times with us and to remind us we are not alone and things can and will get better. I am also a qualified coach and work with women that have experienced abuse. For 22 years I have also worked as a clinical supervisor.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the most important aspect of therapy. To provide a space where you feel safe, respected and never judged. I am an trained in various therapies including cbt therapy. Sometimes life throws us a curve ball and getting up everyday and doing everyday things is a struggle sometimes we need someone to walk through the dark times with us and to remind us we are not alone and things can and will get better. I am also a qualified coach and work with women that have experienced abuse. For 22 years I have also worked as a clinical supervisor.
01695 664393 View 01695 664393
Photo of JVP Wellbeing and Training, Counsellor in Northwich, England
JVP Wellbeing and Training
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Runcorn WA7
Are you ready to change how you feel? Are you experiencing overwhelming feelings of sadness, anxiety, depression and loneliness? I am an experienced qualified counsellor and college lecturer in counselling. I work integratively allowing us to explore a number of approaches including Person Centred, Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Personal Construct Theory and Transactional Analysis. I offer a non judgemental safe place allowing us to work together to make the changes in your life that you so desire
Are you ready to change how you feel? Are you experiencing overwhelming feelings of sadness, anxiety, depression and loneliness? I am an experienced qualified counsellor and college lecturer in counselling. I work integratively allowing us to explore a number of approaches including Person Centred, Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Personal Construct Theory and Transactional Analysis. I offer a non judgemental safe place allowing us to work together to make the changes in your life that you so desire
07889 095188 View 07889 095188
Photo of Nikki Holmes (Mbacp), Counsellor in Northwich, England
Nikki Holmes (Mbacp)
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Warrington WA1
Are you having problems within your relationships both personally /professionally? Are you feeling alone, depressed, anxious or suffering from work-related stress? Do you feel your voice is not being heard or valued? Are you struggling to understand what is happening to you? Do not suffer alone I am here for you, to listen and understand you. I am a compassionate counsellor who has worked with children & adults offering a variety of counselling for issues regarding; stress; anxiety; grief; suicidal ideation; depression; confidence / self-esteem & abuse. My therapeutic approach will be individualised to meet your unique needs.
Are you having problems within your relationships both personally /professionally? Are you feeling alone, depressed, anxious or suffering from work-related stress? Do you feel your voice is not being heard or valued? Are you struggling to understand what is happening to you? Do not suffer alone I am here for you, to listen and understand you. I am a compassionate counsellor who has worked with children & adults offering a variety of counselling for issues regarding; stress; anxiety; grief; suicidal ideation; depression; confidence / self-esteem & abuse. My therapeutic approach will be individualised to meet your unique needs.
0151 329 2935 View 0151 329 2935
Photo of Mandy Jones, Counsellor in Northwich, England
Mandy Jones
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Warrington WA1
Hi, thank you for taking the time to look at my profile. Here is just a little bit of info about me.............I am a highly experienced, skilled and established counsellor. Alongside my private practice work, I am also employed part-time as a Lead Therapist for a local Charity. My previous work experience has included working for a statutory service in the NHS, Charities and various EAP's companies. I offer my clients a safe, private, confidential and non-judgemental space to help process and explore any difficulties or issues you may have.
Hi, thank you for taking the time to look at my profile. Here is just a little bit of info about me.............I am a highly experienced, skilled and established counsellor. Alongside my private practice work, I am also employed part-time as a Lead Therapist for a local Charity. My previous work experience has included working for a statutory service in the NHS, Charities and various EAP's companies. I offer my clients a safe, private, confidential and non-judgemental space to help process and explore any difficulties or issues you may have.
07955 727317 View 07955 727317
Photo of Helen Allen, Counsellor in Northwich, England
Helen Allen
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Tarporley CW6
There is so much noise all around us. Opinions from family, friends and society on how we should think, act, look and learn are everywhere. It’s easy to lose sight of what you think, what you want, who you actually are. Counselling gives you a time and space to discover what you think and what’s important to you. My ethos is to walk in your world with you in a non judgemental way. We would work together in an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect, unpicking and exploring where the issues stem from. Using a blend of techniques supporting you in finding the understanding and acceptance to move forwards in a happier, healthier way.
There is so much noise all around us. Opinions from family, friends and society on how we should think, act, look and learn are everywhere. It’s easy to lose sight of what you think, what you want, who you actually are. Counselling gives you a time and space to discover what you think and what’s important to you. My ethos is to walk in your world with you in a non judgemental way. We would work together in an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect, unpicking and exploring where the issues stem from. Using a blend of techniques supporting you in finding the understanding and acceptance to move forwards in a happier, healthier way.
0151 453 1909 View 0151 453 1909
Photo of Lesley Ann Greenwood, Psychologist in Northwich, England
Lesley Ann Greenwood
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Tarporley CW6
We all need to talk to someone at times, right now life is extremely difficult for many of us! Talking issues through is often the best way to deal with our conflicting emotions. I specialise in depression, anxiety, ​and weight management, along with mid-life transitions and relationship counseling. I believe talking to someone totally unconnected to the problem can help clients see their situation through fresh eyes. I use a combination of therapies to help clients restructure their lives and issues. I am based in a private location in South Cheshire. I also have clients based around the globe via video. Discretion is paramount!
We all need to talk to someone at times, right now life is extremely difficult for many of us! Talking issues through is often the best way to deal with our conflicting emotions. I specialise in depression, anxiety, ​and weight management, along with mid-life transitions and relationship counseling. I believe talking to someone totally unconnected to the problem can help clients see their situation through fresh eyes. I use a combination of therapies to help clients restructure their lives and issues. I am based in a private location in South Cheshire. I also have clients based around the globe via video. Discretion is paramount!
07449 891922 View 07449 891922
Photo of Lucy Semple, Counsellor in Northwich, England
Lucy Semple
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Lymm WA13
Lets be honest, finding the right counsellor can feel very daunting, especially with so many profiles to read so I'll try to keep it simple. I provide a confidential, non-judgmental, safe space where you can feel comfortable opening up about your inner most thoughts and feelings. We can explore things like your relationships, your history and childhood, bereavements, the impact of the pandemic on you or anything that you feel you need to gain clarity on or offload. The sessions are yours to use however you feel is needed and I will be there to support and encourage you on your journey. It's an hour to focus on you!
Lets be honest, finding the right counsellor can feel very daunting, especially with so many profiles to read so I'll try to keep it simple. I provide a confidential, non-judgmental, safe space where you can feel comfortable opening up about your inner most thoughts and feelings. We can explore things like your relationships, your history and childhood, bereavements, the impact of the pandemic on you or anything that you feel you need to gain clarity on or offload. The sessions are yours to use however you feel is needed and I will be there to support and encourage you on your journey. It's an hour to focus on you!
0161 524 8355 View 0161 524 8355
Photo of Dr Joanne Ablett (Flow Clinical Psychology), Psychologist in Northwich, England
Dr Joanne Ablett (Flow Clinical Psychology)
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrington WA1  (Online Only)
Flow CP offers flexible therapy provided by skilled and experienced Clinical Psychologists with a strong value base. If you are struggling with the flow in your life, in any area, whether it be health, work, relationships, past or a bit of everything, please do get in touch for a collaborative and tailored approach to your needs. We have extensive experience working with both mental & physical health difficulties within the NHS and private practice. I am particularly interested in the way that trauma can be expressed through the body and skilled in working holistically with the impact of psychological wellbeing on physical symptoms.
Flow CP offers flexible therapy provided by skilled and experienced Clinical Psychologists with a strong value base. If you are struggling with the flow in your life, in any area, whether it be health, work, relationships, past or a bit of everything, please do get in touch for a collaborative and tailored approach to your needs. We have extensive experience working with both mental & physical health difficulties within the NHS and private practice. I am particularly interested in the way that trauma can be expressed through the body and skilled in working holistically with the impact of psychological wellbeing on physical symptoms.
01925 948102 View 01925 948102
Photo of Shaunagh Parkes, Counsellor in Northwich, England
Shaunagh Parkes
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Runcorn WA7  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Shaunagh and I am an experienced Integrative Therapist based in Cheshire. I have worked as a counsellor within primary care settings, employment assistance programmes and private practice. I have also spent 2 years as a volunteer counsellor for local charities. As a result I have had the privilege of gaining experience in a variety and severity of mental health complaints. I have the most experience working with anxiety, relationship issues, grief/loss and LGBTQ+ issues. I also have experience working with depression/low mood, trauma, family conflict, life transitions, self-harm, self-esteem and stress.
Welcome! My name is Shaunagh and I am an experienced Integrative Therapist based in Cheshire. I have worked as a counsellor within primary care settings, employment assistance programmes and private practice. I have also spent 2 years as a volunteer counsellor for local charities. As a result I have had the privilege of gaining experience in a variety and severity of mental health complaints. I have the most experience working with anxiety, relationship issues, grief/loss and LGBTQ+ issues. I also have experience working with depression/low mood, trauma, family conflict, life transitions, self-harm, self-esteem and stress.
0151 453 0034 View 0151 453 0034
Photo of Dr Julija Jain, Psychologist in Northwich, England
Dr Julija Jain
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Warrington WA1
Share your problems, Challenge them, Learn new ways of coping and experience Change with my psychological services. I have over 10 years of training and practice in the most effective therapies aimed at helping people with complex and less complex mental health needs. As a highly skilled Chartered Counselling Psychologist, I can help you feel empowered and gain control of yourself and your responses to challenging situations. Book yourself for an initial psychological assessment session which will help us to have a better understanding of your issues and what specific approach is needed to resolve these issues: www.drjulijajain.com
Share your problems, Challenge them, Learn new ways of coping and experience Change with my psychological services. I have over 10 years of training and practice in the most effective therapies aimed at helping people with complex and less complex mental health needs. As a highly skilled Chartered Counselling Psychologist, I can help you feel empowered and gain control of yourself and your responses to challenging situations. Book yourself for an initial psychological assessment session which will help us to have a better understanding of your issues and what specific approach is needed to resolve these issues: www.drjulijajain.com
01707 246828 View 01707 246828

Online Therapists

Photo of Diverse Wellbeing Services Ltd, Psychotherapist in Northwich, England
Diverse Wellbeing Services Ltd
Psychotherapist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Rochdale OL11
My area of expertise in Anxiety, Depression and Post Traumatic disorders, Narcissistic Personality disorder, Sexual abuse, Domestic violence, Eating disorders couples and relationship issues, Sexual addiction and Psycho-sexual disorders.
As a specialist psychologist and psychotherapist, I work with the National Health Services UK, focusing on services for adults with autism/ADHD, PTSD, couples, psychosexual therapy, and psychological therapy for comorbid mental health conditions. I am deeply interested in the efficacy of psychological therapies for these groups and the necessary adaptations in therapy. My extensive experience in assessment, formulation, and clinical management allows me to contribute to service development, supervision, safeguarding, and the creation of innovative client engagement methods in therapy.
My area of expertise in Anxiety, Depression and Post Traumatic disorders, Narcissistic Personality disorder, Sexual abuse, Domestic violence, Eating disorders couples and relationship issues, Sexual addiction and Psycho-sexual disorders.
As a specialist psychologist and psychotherapist, I work with the National Health Services UK, focusing on services for adults with autism/ADHD, PTSD, couples, psychosexual therapy, and psychological therapy for comorbid mental health conditions. I am deeply interested in the efficacy of psychological therapies for these groups and the necessary adaptations in therapy. My extensive experience in assessment, formulation, and clinical management allows me to contribute to service development, supervision, safeguarding, and the creation of innovative client engagement methods in therapy.
01706 300329 View 01706 300329

See more therapy options for Northwich


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.