Counselling in Oxford
Paul Hughes
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Oxford OX4
I see clients from across all ages, ethnicities and with an extremely wide range of issues. I help clients to come to grips with substance abuse, depression, all forms of anxiety and much more besides. I help my clients to summon the strength to put their issues behind them. I help them to find new ways of feeling, thinking and behaving. Whatever their goals might be, I help them to realise that they're strong enough, good enough and able to achieve them. I particularly specialise in working with clients on the high functioning end of the autistic spectrum.
I see clients from across all ages, ethnicities and with an extremely wide range of issues. I help clients to come to grips with substance abuse, depression, all forms of anxiety and much more besides. I help my clients to summon the strength to put their issues behind them. I help them to find new ways of feeling, thinking and behaving. Whatever their goals might be, I help them to realise that they're strong enough, good enough and able to achieve them. I particularly specialise in working with clients on the high functioning end of the autistic spectrum.
Online Therapists
Bettina Salzmann
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SW14
I have worked with individuals presenting with anxiety, General anxiety disorders, depression, stress,OCD, panic attacks, phobias, trauma, PTSD,childhood abuse, domestic violence, autism, agraphobia,bereavement,loss,sudden/ traumatic death,relationship issues,suicide,addiction, eating disorders, bipolar and personality disorder using DBT amongst others.
I am an experienced CBT therapist and integrative counsellor/psychotherapist working in private practice for Anxiety, Trauma, Personality Disorder, Depression, family mediation.I use mindfulness with my clients to help them to become more aware of the present moment and in acknowledging feelings and thoughts as they come and go.It’s been accepted as a useful therapy for anxiety and depression for years, and research suggests it's effective when practising reflection on yourself, switching off your auto pilot in order to discover your real feelings, and this can have an positive influence on our well being.
I have worked with individuals presenting with anxiety, General anxiety disorders, depression, stress,OCD, panic attacks, phobias, trauma, PTSD,childhood abuse, domestic violence, autism, agraphobia,bereavement,loss,sudden/ traumatic death,relationship issues,suicide,addiction, eating disorders, bipolar and personality disorder using DBT amongst others.
I am an experienced CBT therapist and integrative counsellor/psychotherapist working in private practice for Anxiety, Trauma, Personality Disorder, Depression, family mediation.I use mindfulness with my clients to help them to become more aware of the present moment and in acknowledging feelings and thoughts as they come and go.It’s been accepted as a useful therapy for anxiety and depression for years, and research suggests it's effective when practising reflection on yourself, switching off your auto pilot in order to discover your real feelings, and this can have an positive influence on our well being.
Lee Martin Mbacp(Sen Accred) Emdr(Accred) Ma Ba(Hons) Pg-Dip
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
London SE24
Hello and Welcome, Life has indeed become complex. Many of us are now struggling with our mental health in ways that are no longer manageable. Our past and present hurts, our unprocessed feelings have risen to the surface. We find ourselves thinking, feeling and acting in ways that do not reflect who we want to be. Some of us have Grief, Trauma or Addiction that we just can’t seem to work through. As a Senior Accredited Psychotherapist with a Master Degree and EMDR Accredited, I've seen thousands come through my door, with various presenting issues and undergo genuine transformation, healing and leave with hope for the future.
Hello and Welcome, Life has indeed become complex. Many of us are now struggling with our mental health in ways that are no longer manageable. Our past and present hurts, our unprocessed feelings have risen to the surface. We find ourselves thinking, feeling and acting in ways that do not reflect who we want to be. Some of us have Grief, Trauma or Addiction that we just can’t seem to work through. As a Senior Accredited Psychotherapist with a Master Degree and EMDR Accredited, I've seen thousands come through my door, with various presenting issues and undergo genuine transformation, healing and leave with hope for the future.
Errol John Hendrickse
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Stanmore HA7
During difficult times, we all seem to be struggling with our mental health - I specialise in working with male issues such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, addiction and psychosexual, but exclusively.
Asking for help is not an easy step to take. The prospect of sharing your thoughts and feelings with someone else is quite a leap of faith and if you have not experienced counselling before you may be wondering what to expect. I would like to offer you a comfortable space where we can talk and get to know each other; and when you are ready, we can start to explore and make sense of your thoughts and personal difficulties, working entirely at your own pace. By exploring our past experiences and relationships we can often gain a new and fresh perspective on our issues which can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves.
During difficult times, we all seem to be struggling with our mental health - I specialise in working with male issues such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, addiction and psychosexual, but exclusively.
Asking for help is not an easy step to take. The prospect of sharing your thoughts and feelings with someone else is quite a leap of faith and if you have not experienced counselling before you may be wondering what to expect. I would like to offer you a comfortable space where we can talk and get to know each other; and when you are ready, we can start to explore and make sense of your thoughts and personal difficulties, working entirely at your own pace. By exploring our past experiences and relationships we can often gain a new and fresh perspective on our issues which can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves.
Dr Ryota Kishi
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
London E17
I am a Counselling Psychologist with extensive experience of delivering evidence-based treatments in the NHS, within voluntary organisations and in private practice. I have worked with individuals and groups experiencing mental health difficulties including depression, a variety of anxiety disorders, bereavement and addiction.
I am a Counselling Psychologist with extensive experience of delivering evidence-based treatments in the NHS, within voluntary organisations and in private practice. I have worked with individuals and groups experiencing mental health difficulties including depression, a variety of anxiety disorders, bereavement and addiction.
Maggie Curran
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
West Drayton UB7
Are you feeling desperate and alone? Struggling to cope with the uncertainty of life? Is it difficult to get our of bed in the morning- I understand and I can help. Offering a safe space for you to talk and discuss what's really going on for you. Specialising in PTSD and trauma. Offering EMDR, I also work with anxiety, depression, addiction, and relationships, Couples Therapy. Qualified and experienced, client who work with me tell me they feel safe and can talk in a non-judgmental environment, which allows them to discuss issues in confidence. Take the first step, call me today. I offer a free 15 minute consultation. Thank you
Are you feeling desperate and alone? Struggling to cope with the uncertainty of life? Is it difficult to get our of bed in the morning- I understand and I can help. Offering a safe space for you to talk and discuss what's really going on for you. Specialising in PTSD and trauma. Offering EMDR, I also work with anxiety, depression, addiction, and relationships, Couples Therapy. Qualified and experienced, client who work with me tell me they feel safe and can talk in a non-judgmental environment, which allows them to discuss issues in confidence. Take the first step, call me today. I offer a free 15 minute consultation. Thank you
Lee Martin: Mbacp(Sen.accred) Ma Ba(Hons) Pg-Dip Emdr(Accred)
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
London SW7 (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome, Life has indeed become complex. Many of us are now struggling with our mental health in ways that are no longer manageable. Our past and present hurts, our unprocessed feelings have risen to the surface. We find ourselves thinking, feeling and acting in ways that do not reflect who we want to be. Some of us have Grief, Trauma or Addiction that we just can’t seem to work through. As a Senior Accredited Psychotherapist with a Master Degree and EMDR Accredited, I've seen thousands come through my door, with various presenting issues and undergo genuine transformation, healing and leave with hope for the future.
Hello and Welcome, Life has indeed become complex. Many of us are now struggling with our mental health in ways that are no longer manageable. Our past and present hurts, our unprocessed feelings have risen to the surface. We find ourselves thinking, feeling and acting in ways that do not reflect who we want to be. Some of us have Grief, Trauma or Addiction that we just can’t seem to work through. As a Senior Accredited Psychotherapist with a Master Degree and EMDR Accredited, I've seen thousands come through my door, with various presenting issues and undergo genuine transformation, healing and leave with hope for the future.
Danielle Nicole Phoenix
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Uckfield TN22
I also have experience in working with depression, anxiety, addiction, phobias, 'PTSD', anger, bereavement, 'OCD', low self-esteem, 'personality disorders' and hearing voices.
I view mental health as something that all human beings struggle with to varying degrees at various times. The extent to which this is experienced depends on the individual and their own set of life experiences, personal and family history, and genetic-biological make-up. Thus, I incorporate all of these elements into my work.
I also have experience in working with depression, anxiety, addiction, phobias, 'PTSD', anger, bereavement, 'OCD', low self-esteem, 'personality disorders' and hearing voices.
I view mental health as something that all human beings struggle with to varying degrees at various times. The extent to which this is experienced depends on the individual and their own set of life experiences, personal and family history, and genetic-biological make-up. Thus, I incorporate all of these elements into my work.
Lee Martin
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Leatherhead KT22 (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome, Life has indeed become complex. Many of us are now struggling with our mental health in ways that are no longer manageable. Our past and present hurts, our unprocessed feelings have risen to the surface. We find ourselves thinking, feeling and acting in ways that do not reflect who we want to be. Some of us have Grief, Trauma or Addiction that we just can’t seem to work through. As a Senior Accredited Psychotherapist with a Master Degree and EMDR Accredited, I've seen thousands come through my door, with various presenting issues, undergo genuine transformation, healing and leave with hope for the future.
Hello and Welcome, Life has indeed become complex. Many of us are now struggling with our mental health in ways that are no longer manageable. Our past and present hurts, our unprocessed feelings have risen to the surface. We find ourselves thinking, feeling and acting in ways that do not reflect who we want to be. Some of us have Grief, Trauma or Addiction that we just can’t seem to work through. As a Senior Accredited Psychotherapist with a Master Degree and EMDR Accredited, I've seen thousands come through my door, with various presenting issues, undergo genuine transformation, healing and leave with hope for the future.
Lee Martin Mbacp(Sen.accred)Emdr(Accred) Ma Ba(Hons) Pg-Dip
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Esher KT10 (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome, Life has indeed become complex. Many of us are now struggling with our mental health in ways that are no longer manageable. Our past and present hurts, our unprocessed feelings have risen to the surface. We find ourselves thinking, feeling and acting in ways that do not reflect who we want to be. Some of us have Grief, Trauma or Addiction that we just can’t seem to work through. As a Senior Accredited Psychotherapist with a Master Degree and EMDR Accredited, I've seen thousands come through my door, with various presenting issues and undergo genuine transformation, healing and leave with hope for the future.
Hello and Welcome, Life has indeed become complex. Many of us are now struggling with our mental health in ways that are no longer manageable. Our past and present hurts, our unprocessed feelings have risen to the surface. We find ourselves thinking, feeling and acting in ways that do not reflect who we want to be. Some of us have Grief, Trauma or Addiction that we just can’t seem to work through. As a Senior Accredited Psychotherapist with a Master Degree and EMDR Accredited, I've seen thousands come through my door, with various presenting issues and undergo genuine transformation, healing and leave with hope for the future.
Dr Nazee Akbari
Psychotherapist, PsychD, MBACP
Verified Verified
London N3
Specialising in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cross-Cultural therapy, and advanced-level Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), I effectively address PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, anger management, relationship issues, confidence, phobias, OCD, personality disorder, sexual abuse, bereavement, and addiction.
With over 23 years of experience in the mental health field, I bring expertise as a bilingual psychotherapist with a Doctorate-level qualification. Providing therapy in English and Farsi, I tailor an integrative approach to meet each client's unique needs. My extensive background encompasses Humanistic, Psychoanalytic, Existential,and Cognitive Behavioural approaches, with a focus on CBT and Cross-Cultural therapy. As a cross-cultural therapist, I specialise in supporting individuals and couples from diverse backgrounds, including those navigating mixed cultural relationships and identity challenges within different cultures.
Specialising in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cross-Cultural therapy, and advanced-level Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), I effectively address PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, anger management, relationship issues, confidence, phobias, OCD, personality disorder, sexual abuse, bereavement, and addiction.
With over 23 years of experience in the mental health field, I bring expertise as a bilingual psychotherapist with a Doctorate-level qualification. Providing therapy in English and Farsi, I tailor an integrative approach to meet each client's unique needs. My extensive background encompasses Humanistic, Psychoanalytic, Existential,and Cognitive Behavioural approaches, with a focus on CBT and Cross-Cultural therapy. As a cross-cultural therapist, I specialise in supporting individuals and couples from diverse backgrounds, including those navigating mixed cultural relationships and identity challenges within different cultures.
Dr Diane Rodin Mba
Psychotherapist, PsychD, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
London SW11
As an integrative practitioner, I am engaging, insightful, curious, respectful, and able to design an individualised treatment that suits your needs. I practice CBT, EMDR, DBT, psychodynamic and integrative therapy. My 12-year clinical experience includes both the private mental health and the NHS, working both in individual and couples therapy. Previously, I had an executive corporate career at Microsoft UK and an MBA from INSEAD. I specialise in working with a spectrum of psychological issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, OCD, PTSD, low mood, low self-esteem, addiction, burnout, divorce and relationship issues.
As an integrative practitioner, I am engaging, insightful, curious, respectful, and able to design an individualised treatment that suits your needs. I practice CBT, EMDR, DBT, psychodynamic and integrative therapy. My 12-year clinical experience includes both the private mental health and the NHS, working both in individual and couples therapy. Previously, I had an executive corporate career at Microsoft UK and an MBA from INSEAD. I specialise in working with a spectrum of psychological issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, OCD, PTSD, low mood, low self-esteem, addiction, burnout, divorce and relationship issues.
Lee Martin Mbacp(Sen Accred) Emdr(Accred) Ma Ba(Hons) Pg-Dip
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
London W1J (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome, Life has indeed become complex. Many of us are now struggling with our mental health in ways that are no longer manageable. Our past and present hurts, our unprocessed feelings have risen to the surface. We find ourselves thinking, feeling and acting in ways that do not reflect who we want to be. Some of us have Grief, Trauma or Addiction that we just can’t seem to work through. As a Senior Accredited Psychotherapist with a Master Degree and EMDR Accredited, I've seen thousands come through my door, with various presenting issues and undergo genuine transformation, healing and leave with hope for the future.
Hello and Welcome, Life has indeed become complex. Many of us are now struggling with our mental health in ways that are no longer manageable. Our past and present hurts, our unprocessed feelings have risen to the surface. We find ourselves thinking, feeling and acting in ways that do not reflect who we want to be. Some of us have Grief, Trauma or Addiction that we just can’t seem to work through. As a Senior Accredited Psychotherapist with a Master Degree and EMDR Accredited, I've seen thousands come through my door, with various presenting issues and undergo genuine transformation, healing and leave with hope for the future.
Vanesa Bonilla
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
London SE8 (Online Only)
My main areas of interest are anxiety based disorders, addiction, trauma, emotional dysregulation and long-term health conditions.
I'm a BABCP accredited CBT therapist, with several years of expeience working in different NHS settings, providing psychological support for people struggling with anxiety, depression, OCD, mood disregulation, self-harm, trauma and PTSD (including medical trauma)... I also have experience working with people who have challenging health conditions (in particular diabetes) and need suppot managing the mental distress related to the life adaptations needed to manage those conditions. Previous to that, I completed an MSc in addiction counselling and have experience working in this area. I offer sessions both in English and Spanish
My main areas of interest are anxiety based disorders, addiction, trauma, emotional dysregulation and long-term health conditions.
I'm a BABCP accredited CBT therapist, with several years of expeience working in different NHS settings, providing psychological support for people struggling with anxiety, depression, OCD, mood disregulation, self-harm, trauma and PTSD (including medical trauma)... I also have experience working with people who have challenging health conditions (in particular diabetes) and need suppot managing the mental distress related to the life adaptations needed to manage those conditions. Previous to that, I completed an MSc in addiction counselling and have experience working in this area. I offer sessions both in English and Spanish
Lee Martin Mbacp(Sen Accred) Emdr(Accred) Ma Ba(Hons) Pg-Dip
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Hemel Hempstead HP1 (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome, Life has indeed become complex. Many of us are now struggling with our mental health in ways that are no longer manageable. Our past and present hurts, our unprocessed feelings have risen to the surface. We find ourselves thinking, feeling and acting in ways that do not reflect who we want to be. Some of us have Grief, Trauma or Addiction that we just can’t seem to work through. As a Senior Accredited Psychotherapist with a Master Degree and EMDR Accredited, I've seen thousands come through my door, with various presenting issues and undergo genuine transformation, healing and leave with hope for the future.
Hello and Welcome, Life has indeed become complex. Many of us are now struggling with our mental health in ways that are no longer manageable. Our past and present hurts, our unprocessed feelings have risen to the surface. We find ourselves thinking, feeling and acting in ways that do not reflect who we want to be. Some of us have Grief, Trauma or Addiction that we just can’t seem to work through. As a Senior Accredited Psychotherapist with a Master Degree and EMDR Accredited, I've seen thousands come through my door, with various presenting issues and undergo genuine transformation, healing and leave with hope for the future.
Ezme Bushell
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
London W1G
Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, abuse, stress, self-esteem, addiction, anger, or anything else.
I personally know how hard it can be to reach out for help. You may be feeling anxious, or upset, but I want you to know that you're not alone. I offer a safe space where you can share your problems, without judgment or shame. Your background and history massively inform our therapy, so I take the time to understand you, as a person. Safety, inclusivity, and the therapeutic relationship are at the heart of my work, and I promise to uphold these values when working with you,
Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, abuse, stress, self-esteem, addiction, anger, or anything else.
I personally know how hard it can be to reach out for help. You may be feeling anxious, or upset, but I want you to know that you're not alone. I offer a safe space where you can share your problems, without judgment or shame. Your background and history massively inform our therapy, so I take the time to understand you, as a person. Safety, inclusivity, and the therapeutic relationship are at the heart of my work, and I promise to uphold these values when working with you,
Holly Crump
Psychotherapist, BACP
Verified Verified
Twickenham TW2
I have worked In the addiction field and also with young people between the ages of 11 - 24 at a charity called Off The Record.
Are you yearning for peace of mind? Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed or lost ? Is it clear to you that ‘change’ is needed but you don’t know how to go about making that change? Why don’t we investigate together! I am a fully qualified, integrative psychotherapist and a registered member of the BACP. I am genuine, warm and compassionate and believe that every individual has the potential to grow into the best version of themselves. I want you, as my client, to feel safe, heard and supported by me and my hope that through our sessions together, you will also feel empowered.
I have worked In the addiction field and also with young people between the ages of 11 - 24 at a charity called Off The Record.
Are you yearning for peace of mind? Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed or lost ? Is it clear to you that ‘change’ is needed but you don’t know how to go about making that change? Why don’t we investigate together! I am a fully qualified, integrative psychotherapist and a registered member of the BACP. I am genuine, warm and compassionate and believe that every individual has the potential to grow into the best version of themselves. I want you, as my client, to feel safe, heard and supported by me and my hope that through our sessions together, you will also feel empowered.
Dr Charlotte Lemaigre
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London W1W (Online Only)
I'm a Clinical Psychologist offering specialist assessment and therapy. I am registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and have over ten years experience working in mental health. I work with people who may be experiencing diverse emotional and psychological difficulties such as depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, low self-esteem, substance misuse issues and relationship difficulties. I offer accessible and personalised therapy from the comfort of your own home with online sessions. Welcome! It's a pleasure to meet you; I'm glad you're here. Find out more: www.releafpsychology.com
I'm a Clinical Psychologist offering specialist assessment and therapy. I am registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and have over ten years experience working in mental health. I work with people who may be experiencing diverse emotional and psychological difficulties such as depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, low self-esteem, substance misuse issues and relationship difficulties. I offer accessible and personalised therapy from the comfort of your own home with online sessions. Welcome! It's a pleasure to meet you; I'm glad you're here. Find out more: www.releafpsychology.com
Saskia Bennette
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Reading RG6
My key areas of experience cover the following: Trauma, Relationship issues, & Addiction.
People at times regard seeking counselling as a weakness, however in my view it actually shows great strength to seek support when you are facing issues in your life. Having the courage to look 'inside yourself' is the first step. Working together, I will be there to provide a safe and confidential environment in which we can explore a way forward together. It is a privilege to have acquired the skills to support people who are facing challenges such as: Relationship issues; Stress; Psychological Trauma and PTSD; Anxiety/Depression; Anger issues; Bereavement & Loss; & Phobias
My key areas of experience cover the following: Trauma, Relationship issues, & Addiction.
People at times regard seeking counselling as a weakness, however in my view it actually shows great strength to seek support when you are facing issues in your life. Having the courage to look 'inside yourself' is the first step. Working together, I will be there to provide a safe and confidential environment in which we can explore a way forward together. It is a privilege to have acquired the skills to support people who are facing challenges such as: Relationship issues; Stress; Psychological Trauma and PTSD; Anxiety/Depression; Anger issues; Bereavement & Loss; & Phobias
Dr Harry (Henry) Ager
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG5
I am a Clinical Psychologist. I have a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy), an MSc in Forensic Psychology and a BSc in Psychology with Criminology. I am highly experienced in working with individuals with complex clinical presentations across the lifespan. I have largely worked for the NHS in adult mental health, forensic and rehabilitation settings. Along with common mental health difficulties, I particularly specialise in personality disorders, substance misuse and psychosis. I also have a keen interest in physical exercise, nutrition and maintaining a healthy lifestyle by promoting positive health behaviour change.
I am a Clinical Psychologist. I have a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy), an MSc in Forensic Psychology and a BSc in Psychology with Criminology. I am highly experienced in working with individuals with complex clinical presentations across the lifespan. I have largely worked for the NHS in adult mental health, forensic and rehabilitation settings. Along with common mental health difficulties, I particularly specialise in personality disorders, substance misuse and psychosis. I also have a keen interest in physical exercise, nutrition and maintaining a healthy lifestyle by promoting positive health behaviour change.
See more therapy options for Oxford
Nearby Addiction Counsellors Searches for Oxford
- Abingdon
- Aylesbury
- Bicester
- Didcot
- Eynsham
- Hemel Hempstead
- Kidlington
- Thame
- Wallingford
- Wantage
- Witney
- Woodstock
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.