Addiction Counselling in Guildford

Photo of Claire Millar, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Claire Millar
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU5
I work with a wide range of psychological and emotional issues with particular interest in working with anxiety, depression, addiction, childhood trauma, relationship/couples counselling.
We all experience challenging times in our lives, unable to find a way forward, often feeling alone and confused. Seeking therapy can feel like a big step, not easy, often after having struggled for some time. As an experienced UKCP registered and highly qualified clinical psychotherapist and psychotherapeutic counsellor, I will work alongside you, at your own pace, to help you identify and work out your problems, drawing on all my experience to offer you an approach which suits you as an individual. My private practice is in Guildford where I see individuals and couples, offering both short term and long term therapy as required.
I work with a wide range of psychological and emotional issues with particular interest in working with anxiety, depression, addiction, childhood trauma, relationship/couples counselling.
We all experience challenging times in our lives, unable to find a way forward, often feeling alone and confused. Seeking therapy can feel like a big step, not easy, often after having struggled for some time. As an experienced UKCP registered and highly qualified clinical psychotherapist and psychotherapeutic counsellor, I will work alongside you, at your own pace, to help you identify and work out your problems, drawing on all my experience to offer you an approach which suits you as an individual. My private practice is in Guildford where I see individuals and couples, offering both short term and long term therapy as required.
01483 917669 View 01483 917669
Photo of Karl Ayling, MBACP, Counsellor
Karl Ayling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU3
My training started in the NHS mental health and moved to a charity supported by Hampshire Police for survivors of rape, domestic violence, addiction and trauma. I am now in private practice in the Surrey Hills. My counselling room is self contained for confidentiality and large enough for solo work and up to 4 or 5 people. There are two chocolate Labrador therapy dogs available for cuddles or walk-and-talk and family / child work. Please feel free to call and ask me anything - presenting issues can vary widely so therapy goals may be fluid.
My training started in the NHS mental health and moved to a charity supported by Hampshire Police for survivors of rape, domestic violence, addiction and trauma. I am now in private practice in the Surrey Hills. My counselling room is self contained for confidentiality and large enough for solo work and up to 4 or 5 people. There are two chocolate Labrador therapy dogs available for cuddles or walk-and-talk and family / child work. Please feel free to call and ask me anything - presenting issues can vary widely so therapy goals may be fluid.
01483 967357 View 01483 967357
Photo of Emily Bristow, MBACP, Counsellor
Emily Bristow
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU2
I am an Integrative counsellor working with adults on a wide range of issues, in particular anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma and addiction. I can provide you with a safe space, free of judgement, to explore your world and work towards getting some form of control back in your life. You might feel like relationships are impossible, or even the relationship with yourself is the one you want to focus on. There are no right or wrong things to bring to therapy, all you need to bring is yourself.
I am an Integrative counsellor working with adults on a wide range of issues, in particular anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma and addiction. I can provide you with a safe space, free of judgement, to explore your world and work towards getting some form of control back in your life. You might feel like relationships are impossible, or even the relationship with yourself is the one you want to focus on. There are no right or wrong things to bring to therapy, all you need to bring is yourself.
01483 968545 View 01483 968545
Photo of Dr Paul Kong, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Paul Kong
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
Over 20 years of rich clinical experience. Long track record of serving patients with mental health problems in public hospitals in Hong Kong and held the role of Adult Psychiatry Service Team In-charge. Skilled in assessing and treating a wide variety of psychological problems of adolescents and adults, such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, addiction problem, eating disorders, couple relationship problem, emotional and stress problems, etc. Appointed as Guest Lecturer of the University of Hong Kong and Honorary Clinical Supervisor of the University of Hong Kong and the Chinese University of Hong Kong.
Over 20 years of rich clinical experience. Long track record of serving patients with mental health problems in public hospitals in Hong Kong and held the role of Adult Psychiatry Service Team In-charge. Skilled in assessing and treating a wide variety of psychological problems of adolescents and adults, such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, addiction problem, eating disorders, couple relationship problem, emotional and stress problems, etc. Appointed as Guest Lecturer of the University of Hong Kong and Honorary Clinical Supervisor of the University of Hong Kong and the Chinese University of Hong Kong.
020 4538 3071 View 020 4538 3071
Photo of Samantha D Locke, MA, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Samantha D Locke
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Helping clients achieve emotional stability, build self-confidence, strengthen family bonds, & overcome addiction, trauma & mental health issues.
For over 25 years, Samantha Locke, LMFT, LPC-S, MAC, MBACP(Accred), has provided therapeutic services to individuals aged 11 and above, with a focus on teens, young adults, and their families. Her ideal clients are those navigating life transitions, facing emotional or behavioral challenges, or seeking support for mental health, life transitions, academic, relational and addiction issues. By choosing Samantha, clients find a trusted partner in their journey towards healing and growth, helping them build a brighter and more fulfilling future.
Helping clients achieve emotional stability, build self-confidence, strengthen family bonds, & overcome addiction, trauma & mental health issues.
For over 25 years, Samantha Locke, LMFT, LPC-S, MAC, MBACP(Accred), has provided therapeutic services to individuals aged 11 and above, with a focus on teens, young adults, and their families. Her ideal clients are those navigating life transitions, facing emotional or behavioral challenges, or seeking support for mental health, life transitions, academic, relational and addiction issues. By choosing Samantha, clients find a trusted partner in their journey towards healing and growth, helping them build a brighter and more fulfilling future.
01276 740157 View 01276 740157
Photo of Donna Arnold-Jones - Donna Arnold-Jones Counselling & Supervision, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Donna Arnold-Jones Counselling & Supervision
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have extensive experience of working with many issues that people seek counselling for and have robust knowledge and experience of working with substance misuse, bereavement and anxiety.
A cuppa and chat with friends can often provide exactly what we need when facing difficulties in life… But what if friends’ well-intended advice just isn’t working this time? Maybe it's time for you to see if counselling can help. Hello, my name is Donna and I’m a qualified, experienced Counsellor; I offer you a compassionate, common-sense and theoretically based approach to help you explore what is troubling you. I provide short and long-term therapy, tailored to your needs. I look forward to working with you.
I have extensive experience of working with many issues that people seek counselling for and have robust knowledge and experience of working with substance misuse, bereavement and anxiety.
A cuppa and chat with friends can often provide exactly what we need when facing difficulties in life… But what if friends’ well-intended advice just isn’t working this time? Maybe it's time for you to see if counselling can help. Hello, my name is Donna and I’m a qualified, experienced Counsellor; I offer you a compassionate, common-sense and theoretically based approach to help you explore what is troubling you. I provide short and long-term therapy, tailored to your needs. I look forward to working with you.
01483 937772 View 01483 937772
Photo of Dale Conlon - UK Addiction Treatment Centres (UKAT)
UK Addiction Treatment Centres (UKAT)
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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 Jenny Freeman, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Jenny Freeman
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
In particular, I work with those dealing with heightened anxiety, those with addiction issues, and young people navigating the pressures of University.
Hi, my name is Jenny Freeman and my aim is to create an environment where you can speak freely, without fear of judgement, so we can take a compassionate look at what is troubling you. No topic is off-limits, as all thoughts and feelings we have are part of what it means to be human. Whether it's long or short term work, we'll work so you can gain an improved quality of life going forward. I am a native New Zealander, having lived in the UK for 20+ years, and I'm passionate about human growth and change. I work remotely, nationwide using telephone and Zoom.
In particular, I work with those dealing with heightened anxiety, those with addiction issues, and young people navigating the pressures of University.
Hi, my name is Jenny Freeman and my aim is to create an environment where you can speak freely, without fear of judgement, so we can take a compassionate look at what is troubling you. No topic is off-limits, as all thoughts and feelings we have are part of what it means to be human. Whether it's long or short term work, we'll work so you can gain an improved quality of life going forward. I am a native New Zealander, having lived in the UK for 20+ years, and I'm passionate about human growth and change. I work remotely, nationwide using telephone and Zoom.
01483 967910 View 01483 967910
Photo of Dr Michael Munday, PsychD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Michael Munday
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
I offer psychological therapy to adults and adolescents (aged 14 and above). I have over 17 years experience as a therapist working in the NHS and in private practice. My focus is on trying to help people grow and thrive in moving towards what they value in life and become more themselves. I have experience of being alongside people in helping them navigate a variety of difficulties, including depression, anxiety, anger, low self-worth, shame, relationship problems, gender dysphoria, trauma, self-harm, substance misuse, eating difficulties, personality difficulties, psychosis, and bipolar affective disorder.
I offer psychological therapy to adults and adolescents (aged 14 and above). I have over 17 years experience as a therapist working in the NHS and in private practice. My focus is on trying to help people grow and thrive in moving towards what they value in life and become more themselves. I have experience of being alongside people in helping them navigate a variety of difficulties, including depression, anxiety, anger, low self-worth, shame, relationship problems, gender dysphoria, trauma, self-harm, substance misuse, eating difficulties, personality difficulties, psychosis, and bipolar affective disorder.
01483 968124 View 01483 968124
Photo of Pia Granjon
Pia Granjon
Verified Verified
Guildford GU2
You may be living in the aftermath of psychological trauma/complex trauma, or maybe you are unsure about it. You have difficulties with sleeping, eating, connection to yourself and others, addiction, dissociations, maybe Dissociative Identity Disorder. . . you can be heard and understood by a professional who knows how to deal with those symptoms, who can listen to you with no judgement, can offer explanation and help you begin to process what is happening in a safe environment, so you can regain control over your life.
You may be living in the aftermath of psychological trauma/complex trauma, or maybe you are unsure about it. You have difficulties with sleeping, eating, connection to yourself and others, addiction, dissociations, maybe Dissociative Identity Disorder. . . you can be heard and understood by a professional who knows how to deal with those symptoms, who can listen to you with no judgement, can offer explanation and help you begin to process what is happening in a safe environment, so you can regain control over your life.
01483 924566 View 01483 924566
Photo of Linda Hoinville, MBACP, Counsellor
Linda Hoinville
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU2
Whatever challenges you currently face, I provide a warm, empathic, non-judgemental space to help you to explore and make sense of your feelings. I work with adults to address a range of issues including anxiety, depression, addiction, abuse, trauma, bereavement, low self-esteem, perfectionism, relationship struggles, and stressful work situations. Together we will make sense of your unique story, bringing new perspectives so you can make lasting changes to create a more authentic and satisfying life. We will explore how your behaviour is impacted by your current and past experience allowing you to move forward in your life.
Whatever challenges you currently face, I provide a warm, empathic, non-judgemental space to help you to explore and make sense of your feelings. I work with adults to address a range of issues including anxiety, depression, addiction, abuse, trauma, bereavement, low self-esteem, perfectionism, relationship struggles, and stressful work situations. Together we will make sense of your unique story, bringing new perspectives so you can make lasting changes to create a more authentic and satisfying life. We will explore how your behaviour is impacted by your current and past experience allowing you to move forward in your life.
01483 694518 View 01483 694518
Photo of Martin Bennett, MBACP, Counsellor
Martin Bennett
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Guildford GU1
I am qualified as an integrative counsellor and my busy private practice reflects a broad range of clients and their issues. I work with people of all ages, from all backgrounds struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction and stress. I also have experience of clients with bereavement, loss, panic attacks, trauma, sex and pornography addiction, anger and eating disorders. I work with individuals and couples and favour a systemic approach looking at context, social environment and behaviour patterns as well as attachments from the past that impact the present.
I am qualified as an integrative counsellor and my busy private practice reflects a broad range of clients and their issues. I work with people of all ages, from all backgrounds struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction and stress. I also have experience of clients with bereavement, loss, panic attacks, trauma, sex and pornography addiction, anger and eating disorders. I work with individuals and couples and favour a systemic approach looking at context, social environment and behaviour patterns as well as attachments from the past that impact the present.
07480 779802 View 07480 779802
Photo of Lindani Moyo, BACP, Counsellor
Lindani Moyo
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Guildford GU2
I’ve over 20 years experience of working in the social care industry. I am a BA (Hons) degree Level 6 qualified humanistic person-centred counsellor. I have experience in blended work, working with domestic abuse, trauma, anxiety, sexual abuse and low mood amongst other presenting life challenges. My work is client- centred and thrive towards other approaches when working 1:1 with clients to help suit the individual needs. I also work with substance misuse, individuals who struggle with alcohol and drug misuse following the 12 step programme using solution focused therapy.
I’ve over 20 years experience of working in the social care industry. I am a BA (Hons) degree Level 6 qualified humanistic person-centred counsellor. I have experience in blended work, working with domestic abuse, trauma, anxiety, sexual abuse and low mood amongst other presenting life challenges. My work is client- centred and thrive towards other approaches when working 1:1 with clients to help suit the individual needs. I also work with substance misuse, individuals who struggle with alcohol and drug misuse following the 12 step programme using solution focused therapy.
01420 554955 View 01420 554955
Photo of Faye Marriott, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Faye Marriott
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I support people to live happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives, by reducing emotional distress and challenging unhelpful or rigid thought patterns. I have practiced privately for a number of years, and have also worked at the Priory Hospital, an addiction support agency and within numerous colleges. I work with individuals and with couples. Perhaps you are fed up with feeling, living or thinking in a certain way, and this is affecting your work life, your romantic relationships, your friendships or your self-esteem.
I support people to live happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives, by reducing emotional distress and challenging unhelpful or rigid thought patterns. I have practiced privately for a number of years, and have also worked at the Priory Hospital, an addiction support agency and within numerous colleges. I work with individuals and with couples. Perhaps you are fed up with feeling, living or thinking in a certain way, and this is affecting your work life, your romantic relationships, your friendships or your self-esteem.
020 3763 8860 View 020 3763 8860
Photo of Lisa Duff, MA, BACP, Psychotherapist
Lisa Duff
Psychotherapist, MA, BACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am a fully qualified and insured psychotherapist and a member of the BACP. I  use a variety of therapeutic modalities, including CBT and DBT. I work with a tailored approach that will meet my clients individual needs,  thus meaning that rooted in my belief is that everybody has the capacity for self growth. My goal is to empower my clients to build resilience, develop coping skills and achieve their personal and emotional wellbeing. I am dedicated to my work and have a passion to work collaboratively with my clients to get them to a place they desire. I specialise in addiction and trauma.
I am a fully qualified and insured psychotherapist and a member of the BACP. I  use a variety of therapeutic modalities, including CBT and DBT. I work with a tailored approach that will meet my clients individual needs,  thus meaning that rooted in my belief is that everybody has the capacity for self growth. My goal is to empower my clients to build resilience, develop coping skills and achieve their personal and emotional wellbeing. I am dedicated to my work and have a passion to work collaboratively with my clients to get them to a place they desire. I specialise in addiction and trauma.
01329 553368 View 01329 553368
Photo of David Campbell, MBACP, Counsellor
David Campbell
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
If you have challenges with stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, addiction, work - related issues, relationships, or loss and grief, I am here to provide a trusting, confidential space where you can feel listened to and supported, I am here to give you this dedicated space This is your time to explore difficult issues, supporting you in your life's journey.
My name is David and I offer outcome based therapy for complex based issues like depression, anxiety, addiction, and relationship challenges whether that is at home or work. We can only truly move past them by understanding where they originate from and deal with them as they present in your current life. This may involve looking at past experiences and the emotions associated with them in a compassionate, empathic, non-judgmental, curious way, creating the right conditions for you to get to the source of your problem and see how certain triggers from the past directly inform how you think, feel, and behave in the present moment.
If you have challenges with stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, addiction, work - related issues, relationships, or loss and grief, I am here to provide a trusting, confidential space where you can feel listened to and supported, I am here to give you this dedicated space This is your time to explore difficult issues, supporting you in your life's journey.
My name is David and I offer outcome based therapy for complex based issues like depression, anxiety, addiction, and relationship challenges whether that is at home or work. We can only truly move past them by understanding where they originate from and deal with them as they present in your current life. This may involve looking at past experiences and the emotions associated with them in a compassionate, empathic, non-judgmental, curious way, creating the right conditions for you to get to the source of your problem and see how certain triggers from the past directly inform how you think, feel, and behave in the present moment.
01372 664327 View 01372 664327
Photo of Louise Barker, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Louise Barker
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Are you looking for a psychological therapist who provides a safe place for you or your child to be listened to and also equips you with lifelong knowledge and skills to take care of your emotional and mental health? I have 30 years experience working with adults, children and young people in a variety of NHS settings. This has included providing cognitive behavioural therapy for adults and young people overcoming addiction, providing specialist assessment and therapy programmes for children and families in an NHS CAMHS team and more recently providing psychological therapy for adults with depression and anxiety problems.
Are you looking for a psychological therapist who provides a safe place for you or your child to be listened to and also equips you with lifelong knowledge and skills to take care of your emotional and mental health? I have 30 years experience working with adults, children and young people in a variety of NHS settings. This has included providing cognitive behavioural therapy for adults and young people overcoming addiction, providing specialist assessment and therapy programmes for children and families in an NHS CAMHS team and more recently providing psychological therapy for adults with depression and anxiety problems.
07394 824978 View 07394 824978
Photo of Stacey Medalyer, MBACP, Counsellor
Stacey Medalyer
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have experience working with issues that include anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship / family issues, addiction, self-harm, depression, stress, sexual abuse, bereavement, loss and terminal illness.
I am a qualified and experienced Humanistic counsellor and psychotherapist, based in Godalming, Surrey, working with adults of all ages and backgrounds. I also work with young people and children aged 5 - 18. I can offer you a safe, confidential, comfortable and welcoming environment where you can express your feelings, attitudes and beliefs openly and freely without fear of judgement. We will work together, at your pace, exploring your emotions, worries and experiences. I will be there alongside you, as you move your life in a direction that is right for you. ​
I have experience working with issues that include anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship / family issues, addiction, self-harm, depression, stress, sexual abuse, bereavement, loss and terminal illness.
I am a qualified and experienced Humanistic counsellor and psychotherapist, based in Godalming, Surrey, working with adults of all ages and backgrounds. I also work with young people and children aged 5 - 18. I can offer you a safe, confidential, comfortable and welcoming environment where you can express your feelings, attitudes and beliefs openly and freely without fear of judgement. We will work together, at your pace, exploring your emotions, worries and experiences. I will be there alongside you, as you move your life in a direction that is right for you. ​
07973 185495 View 07973 185495
Photo of Christopher James Westray, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Christopher James Westray
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I support people presenting with a range of issues including; Anxiety, depression, PTSD, complex PTSD, low self confidence, grief and addiction.
Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, anger or low mood? I am an experienced and passionate psychotherapist. I hold a robust space in which we target and process the source of distress. What I practice is not just ‘talk therapy’, I use powerful, evidence based protocols to help people into their calm, confident, playful and most integrated self. I can help you find structure and stability when things feel chaotic. Therapy can help when it feels like no one around you understands what it’s like to be you and when the way you feel makes no sense. If this resonates and you would like to start making changes please do get in touch.
I support people presenting with a range of issues including; Anxiety, depression, PTSD, complex PTSD, low self confidence, grief and addiction.
Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, anger or low mood? I am an experienced and passionate psychotherapist. I hold a robust space in which we target and process the source of distress. What I practice is not just ‘talk therapy’, I use powerful, evidence based protocols to help people into their calm, confident, playful and most integrated self. I can help you find structure and stability when things feel chaotic. Therapy can help when it feels like no one around you understands what it’s like to be you and when the way you feel makes no sense. If this resonates and you would like to start making changes please do get in touch.
0117 325 4331 View 0117 325 4331
Photo of Dr Sandra Darmanin, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Sandra Darmanin
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a licenced clinical psychologist and member of the HCPC in the UK and the Australian Clinical Psychology Association (ACPA) and having trained as a clinical psychologist at the Wright Institute in Berkeley and Yale University. I have been providing therapy to male and female clients for over 20 years and have accumulated a wealth of experience in working with adults with complex presentations. I have an expertise in working with depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, relationships, workplace issues and substance use.
I am a licenced clinical psychologist and member of the HCPC in the UK and the Australian Clinical Psychology Association (ACPA) and having trained as a clinical psychologist at the Wright Institute in Berkeley and Yale University. I have been providing therapy to male and female clients for over 20 years and have accumulated a wealth of experience in working with adults with complex presentations. I have an expertise in working with depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, relationships, workplace issues and substance use.
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Addiction Counsellors

What is the best therapy for addiction?

Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.

How long does therapy for addiction take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.

How effective is drug addiction treatment?

Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?

The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.