Addiction Counselling in Southampton

Photo of Joanna Crook, MBACP, Counsellor
Joanna Crook
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Southampton SO19
I provide a gentle service for the following: carers of family members; alcohol and substance use problems; self esteem and confidence issues; difficulties from past experiences and trauma.
My name is Jo, I'm a Humanistic Counsellor. At the heart of my therapy is a deep and trusting relationship which I aim to develop by gaining a thorough understanding of how it feels to be you – seeing life through your eyes. I am caring, sensitive and encouraging. Whenever, considering counselling it is important to follow your instincts when choosing a counsellor. You can book a 'talk to Jo' chat for you to see if it feels like we could work together. I offer in person counselling or online. I have a comfortable counselling room. I am based in Sholing in Southampton.
I provide a gentle service for the following: carers of family members; alcohol and substance use problems; self esteem and confidence issues; difficulties from past experiences and trauma.
My name is Jo, I'm a Humanistic Counsellor. At the heart of my therapy is a deep and trusting relationship which I aim to develop by gaining a thorough understanding of how it feels to be you – seeing life through your eyes. I am caring, sensitive and encouraging. Whenever, considering counselling it is important to follow your instincts when choosing a counsellor. You can book a 'talk to Jo' chat for you to see if it feels like we could work together. I offer in person counselling or online. I have a comfortable counselling room. I am based in Sholing in Southampton.
01489 359893 View 01489 359893
Photo of Helen Phillips, MBACP, Counsellor
Helen Phillips
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Southampton SO18
I am a DipHE Gestalt Humanistic Counsellor with over 15 years’ experience - based in Bitterne, Southampton. My main areas of expertise are drugs and alcohol addiction Issues, relationship difficulties, breakups, narcissistic abuse, ADHD, Autism, anxiety and depression. Are you having problems with managing your drinking or drug use and things in your life have become unmanageable? Are you finding it difficult to maintain your relationships with people? Are looking for a calm, centred, caring counsellor who can support you with your difficulties and provide safe space for you to talk?
I am a DipHE Gestalt Humanistic Counsellor with over 15 years’ experience - based in Bitterne, Southampton. My main areas of expertise are drugs and alcohol addiction Issues, relationship difficulties, breakups, narcissistic abuse, ADHD, Autism, anxiety and depression. Are you having problems with managing your drinking or drug use and things in your life have become unmanageable? Are you finding it difficult to maintain your relationships with people? Are looking for a calm, centred, caring counsellor who can support you with your difficulties and provide safe space for you to talk?
01489 663132 View 01489 663132
Photo of Sarah Jayne Grimes, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Sarah Jayne Grimes
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southampton SO30
Addiction bereavement .
I believe that one size does not fit all and everything client is unique. I tailor my approach to my clients individual needs using integral counselling and different modalities. I offer an safe non judgemental space to support and guide you on your journey to find the best version of yourself and how you can flourish in todays world.
Addiction bereavement .
I believe that one size does not fit all and everything client is unique. I tailor my approach to my clients individual needs using integral counselling and different modalities. I offer an safe non judgemental space to support and guide you on your journey to find the best version of yourself and how you can flourish in todays world.
01406 438957 View 01406 438957
Photo of Amanda Jane Pontin - Jigsaw Counselling & Coaching, PsychD, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Jigsaw Counselling & Coaching
Psychotherapist, PsychD, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Southampton SO17
Waitlist for new clients
Does life sometimes feel like a jigsaw puzzle with pieces not slotting together? I am a great believer that we need to invest in ourselves. When life becomes difficult and those pieces are just not fitting, therapy gives you the opportunity to focus on yourself, make you the priority in an otherwise busy life. I have been through such times and it encouraged me to train as a counsellor then a psychotherapist to help clients with general mental health issues and other life difficulties, such as grief and other losses, addiction, sexuality, relationships, domestic abuse and anger issues.
Does life sometimes feel like a jigsaw puzzle with pieces not slotting together? I am a great believer that we need to invest in ourselves. When life becomes difficult and those pieces are just not fitting, therapy gives you the opportunity to focus on yourself, make you the priority in an otherwise busy life. I have been through such times and it encouraged me to train as a counsellor then a psychotherapist to help clients with general mental health issues and other life difficulties, such as grief and other losses, addiction, sexuality, relationships, domestic abuse and anger issues.
023 8235 6142 View 023 8235 6142
Photo of Nicky Adams - Addiction Counselling - Nicky Adams
Addiction Counselling - Nicky Adams
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
For eight years I was a University of Bath lecturer teaching addiction counselling, group psychotherapy and systemic family therapy, and continue to train practitioners.
You may wholeheartedly wish to cut down or stop drinking and/or using substances but find it harder to do than you imagined. Problematic drug and alcohol use causes unhappiness – to you and the people around you. I offer online therapy for alcohol/drug problems, including treatment aftercare, recovery mentoring and relapse prevention guidance. Addiction counselling helps you understand addiction, strengthens your commitment to cutting down or achieving abstinence, and addresses the risky thinking and behaviour that can sabotage recovery. I've also helped partners and family members affected by addiction for more than 20 years.
For eight years I was a University of Bath lecturer teaching addiction counselling, group psychotherapy and systemic family therapy, and continue to train practitioners.
You may wholeheartedly wish to cut down or stop drinking and/or using substances but find it harder to do than you imagined. Problematic drug and alcohol use causes unhappiness – to you and the people around you. I offer online therapy for alcohol/drug problems, including treatment aftercare, recovery mentoring and relapse prevention guidance. Addiction counselling helps you understand addiction, strengthens your commitment to cutting down or achieving abstinence, and addresses the risky thinking and behaviour that can sabotage recovery. I've also helped partners and family members affected by addiction for more than 20 years.
07445 427825 View 07445 427825
Photo of Andy Wareham, MBACP, Counsellor
Andy Wareham
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southampton SO15
I specialise in anxiety, depression, addiction, childhood trauma and I'm neuro affirming, with experience of working successfully with a number of neurodivergent clients. I provide a safe, calm, confidential and reflective space for you to explore any difficulties you are experiencing. At the heart of my approach is the belief that together we can create awareness of what is causing your current discomfort. I can then support you in making the changes necessary to help restore greater balance and increased wellbeing. I offer a free 15 minute telephone appointment to help you decide if I'm the right counsellor for you.
I specialise in anxiety, depression, addiction, childhood trauma and I'm neuro affirming, with experience of working successfully with a number of neurodivergent clients. I provide a safe, calm, confidential and reflective space for you to explore any difficulties you are experiencing. At the heart of my approach is the belief that together we can create awareness of what is causing your current discomfort. I can then support you in making the changes necessary to help restore greater balance and increased wellbeing. I offer a free 15 minute telephone appointment to help you decide if I'm the right counsellor for you.
01962 587254 View 01962 587254
Photo of Grant Woodall, MBACP, Counsellor
Grant Woodall
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Southampton SO31
As a registered member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and Addiction Professionals formerly the Federation of Drug and Alcohol Practitioners I have a broad experience combining professional practice and volunteering, which includes Butterflies Bereavement, The Priory Group, Talkfit, HMP Winchester and NHS Inclusion.
Hello, I'm Woody — a Person-Centred Psychotherapist, Addiction and Recovery Counsellor with a passion for mental health and well-being. Over the last 50 years, I've worn many hats—a Dad, Husband, ex 'Corporate Suit,' Mature Student, Camper Van enthusiast and I've even worked in a Prison. These diverse experiences have guided me towards the Humanist approach to counselling and psychotherapy, drawing inspiration from the work of Carl Rogers and the Person-Centred Approach.
As a registered member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and Addiction Professionals formerly the Federation of Drug and Alcohol Practitioners I have a broad experience combining professional practice and volunteering, which includes Butterflies Bereavement, The Priory Group, Talkfit, HMP Winchester and NHS Inclusion.
Hello, I'm Woody — a Person-Centred Psychotherapist, Addiction and Recovery Counsellor with a passion for mental health and well-being. Over the last 50 years, I've worn many hats—a Dad, Husband, ex 'Corporate Suit,' Mature Student, Camper Van enthusiast and I've even worked in a Prison. These diverse experiences have guided me towards the Humanist approach to counselling and psychotherapy, drawing inspiration from the work of Carl Rogers and the Person-Centred Approach.
01329 759305 View 01329 759305
Photo of Dr Edwin Ashong-Boateng, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Edwin Ashong-Boateng
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Online Only
My practice involves supporting clients with Psychosis, Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, Complex Trauma and Substance Misuse.
I am a HCPC Registered Practitioner Psychologist. I work as a Consultant Clinical Psychologist in the NHS. My approach involves working collaboratively with individuals, couples, families and teams to develop a shared understanding of the patterns they want to change or enhance. This often involves identifying existing strengths and supporting clients to increase their confidence in them. This can be helpful when difficult and often traumatic experiences have eroded people's confidence in their own adeptness. This includes significant experience of supporting clients with neurodiversity.
My practice involves supporting clients with Psychosis, Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, Complex Trauma and Substance Misuse.
I am a HCPC Registered Practitioner Psychologist. I work as a Consultant Clinical Psychologist in the NHS. My approach involves working collaboratively with individuals, couples, families and teams to develop a shared understanding of the patterns they want to change or enhance. This often involves identifying existing strengths and supporting clients to increase their confidence in them. This can be helpful when difficult and often traumatic experiences have eroded people's confidence in their own adeptness. This includes significant experience of supporting clients with neurodiversity.
01489 357224 View 01489 357224
Photo of Snezana Nikolin Caisley - VLAD Outreach CIC, MSc, BACP, Counsellor
VLAD Outreach CIC
Counsellor, MSc, BACP
Verified Verified
Southampton SO19
V.L.A.D. Outreach CIC is a community-driven initiative focused on supporting some of society's most marginalised and vulnerable groups. Please reach out if you feel overlooked or underserved, are you gamer, individuals with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), older and bedbound person, affected by addiction, refugees? While our primary focus is on hard-to-reach communities, our services is open to everyone in need of support. ​ At V.L.A.D. Outreach, we believe that mental health care should be accessible to all, regardless of background or circumstances.
V.L.A.D. Outreach CIC is a community-driven initiative focused on supporting some of society's most marginalised and vulnerable groups. Please reach out if you feel overlooked or underserved, are you gamer, individuals with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), older and bedbound person, affected by addiction, refugees? While our primary focus is on hard-to-reach communities, our services is open to everyone in need of support. ​ At V.L.A.D. Outreach, we believe that mental health care should be accessible to all, regardless of background or circumstances.
023 9433 1204 View 023 9433 1204
Photo of Dr Hubert Fanka, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Dr Hubert Fanka
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Southampton SO16
Sensation of being stuck, depressed, worried, struggling to cope with your feelings, mood changes, trauma memories, hearing distressing voices, suicidal thoughts and urges, adjustment difficulties, addiction, being different and interpersonal difficulties, and willing to move forward and find new ways of coping effectively, “YES i can help". In our sessions, we will use an integrative approach, a mixture Cognitive, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, (DBT CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, (EMDR), Compassionate Focused Therapy, (CFT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, (ACT) depending on your individual needs.
Sensation of being stuck, depressed, worried, struggling to cope with your feelings, mood changes, trauma memories, hearing distressing voices, suicidal thoughts and urges, adjustment difficulties, addiction, being different and interpersonal difficulties, and willing to move forward and find new ways of coping effectively, “YES i can help". In our sessions, we will use an integrative approach, a mixture Cognitive, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, (DBT CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, (EMDR), Compassionate Focused Therapy, (CFT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, (ACT) depending on your individual needs.
023 9431 1717 View 023 9431 1717
Photo of Rachel Carby, BACP, Counsellor
Rachel Carby
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Southampton SO15
I am trained as a Integrative Person centred Counsellor, meaning I work with a blend of approaches that are proven to be effective in helping individuals manage a wide range of difficulties with addiction, low mood, anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, trauma, work related stress, grief and neurodivergence.
Hello, I’m Rachel. I understand that finding the right therapist can be challenging, especially during difficult times. When you choose to work with me, you’ll find a warm, compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can feel safe. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is one of the most important aspects of therapy, and I will always treat you as a unique individual, offering support tailored to your needs. My diverse experience allows me to integrate different therapies to offer a holistic approach, working with clients from all walks of life.
I am trained as a Integrative Person centred Counsellor, meaning I work with a blend of approaches that are proven to be effective in helping individuals manage a wide range of difficulties with addiction, low mood, anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, trauma, work related stress, grief and neurodivergence.
Hello, I’m Rachel. I understand that finding the right therapist can be challenging, especially during difficult times. When you choose to work with me, you’ll find a warm, compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can feel safe. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is one of the most important aspects of therapy, and I will always treat you as a unique individual, offering support tailored to your needs. My diverse experience allows me to integrate different therapies to offer a holistic approach, working with clients from all walks of life.
01722 444022 View 01722 444022
Photo of Carly Crawford, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Carly Crawford
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southampton SO32
Do you feel anxious, depressed or burned out? Are events from your past affecting your present? Do you want more from your relationships or to understand your neurotype? I believe passionately that everyone can benefit from empathetic, professional support. I am a registered counsellor and trainee psychotherapist and I have worked in the field of mental health and well-being for many years, in private practice, charitable counselling services and in statutory homeless, addiction and resettlement services. I take great joy from working with people from all backgrounds, getting to know their stories and their strengths.
Do you feel anxious, depressed or burned out? Are events from your past affecting your present? Do you want more from your relationships or to understand your neurotype? I believe passionately that everyone can benefit from empathetic, professional support. I am a registered counsellor and trainee psychotherapist and I have worked in the field of mental health and well-being for many years, in private practice, charitable counselling services and in statutory homeless, addiction and resettlement services. I take great joy from working with people from all backgrounds, getting to know their stories and their strengths.
01962 671205 View 01962 671205
Photo of Lisa Jones, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Lisa Jones
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Online Only
I also work with clients, or their partners, suffering from Sex and Pornography Addiction or compulsive behaviour.
We need therapy at certain stages in our life to help us process feelings and thoughts - it can provide a way to manage difficult emotions and talk about ourselves in a confidential space away from loved ones and friends. My background is in Person-Centred and Existential Counselling, and I’ve been helping people since 2004. Over the years, I’ve incorporated various theories and practices into my approach, allowing me to offer a personalised, humanistic therapeutic experience. I work with individuals and couples online using Teams or Zoom.
I also work with clients, or their partners, suffering from Sex and Pornography Addiction or compulsive behaviour.
We need therapy at certain stages in our life to help us process feelings and thoughts - it can provide a way to manage difficult emotions and talk about ourselves in a confidential space away from loved ones and friends. My background is in Person-Centred and Existential Counselling, and I’ve been helping people since 2004. Over the years, I’ve incorporated various theories and practices into my approach, allowing me to offer a personalised, humanistic therapeutic experience. I work with individuals and couples online using Teams or Zoom.
023 9200 2179 View 023 9200 2179
Photo of Lisa Duff, MA, BACP, Psychotherapist
Lisa Duff
Psychotherapist, MA, BACP
Verified Verified
Southampton SO16
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 Peter Hutt, MBACP, Counsellor
Peter Hutt
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Southampton SO17
I am a Person Centred Counsellor. My extensive experience - both personal professional - means I offer you genuine understanding and empathy. I can help you with many issues including Anxiety, Grief, Addiction or Alcohol/Drug problems, Trauma or Loss. Maybe you’re just not feeling right and don’t know why. Whatever it is that's troubling you, I will help you to move forward again. Together we’ll explore your difficult feelings and the issues behind them so that you understand them better. From there, we’ll explore ways for you to see a more positive way ahead.
I am a Person Centred Counsellor. My extensive experience - both personal professional - means I offer you genuine understanding and empathy. I can help you with many issues including Anxiety, Grief, Addiction or Alcohol/Drug problems, Trauma or Loss. Maybe you’re just not feeling right and don’t know why. Whatever it is that's troubling you, I will help you to move forward again. Together we’ll explore your difficult feelings and the issues behind them so that you understand them better. From there, we’ll explore ways for you to see a more positive way ahead.
07541 553614 View 07541 553614
Photo of Chantelle Eloise Napier, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Chantelle Eloise Napier
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I incorporate Mindfulness, ACT and CFT and have experience in addiction counseling, offering a personalised approach.
Perhaps you've been struggling with anxiety, low mood or low self esteem for some time and don't know where to turn. I remember scrolling through these listings myself, unsure who to work with and whether anything can help. My practice is centered on creating a safe, non-judgmental, and open space where you feel supported to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I believe that understanding and addressing the root of your challenges can empower you to build resilience and find meaningful change.
In addition to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I incorporate Mindfulness, ACT and CFT and have experience in addiction counseling, offering a personalised approach.
Perhaps you've been struggling with anxiety, low mood or low self esteem for some time and don't know where to turn. I remember scrolling through these listings myself, unsure who to work with and whether anything can help. My practice is centered on creating a safe, non-judgmental, and open space where you feel supported to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I believe that understanding and addressing the root of your challenges can empower you to build resilience and find meaningful change.
01344 964572 View 01344 964572
Photo of Jan Gay, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Jan Gay
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Southampton SO31
Waitlist for new clients
I can help with a wide range of issues including feeling anxious, depressed, finding it difficult to cope, relationship and family issues, bereavement, being worried or confused about your sexuality or gender, dealing with effects of sexual, mental or physical abuse, lack of confidence, low self esteem, panic attacks, managing anger or frustration, difficulties at school, work or college, OCD, the impact of trauma, coping with change, worries about drinking or drug use, self harm, resolving 'unfinished business’ and compulsive behaviours. I am a qualified supervisor, EMDR therapist and accredited by the BACP.
I can help with a wide range of issues including feeling anxious, depressed, finding it difficult to cope, relationship and family issues, bereavement, being worried or confused about your sexuality or gender, dealing with effects of sexual, mental or physical abuse, lack of confidence, low self esteem, panic attacks, managing anger or frustration, difficulties at school, work or college, OCD, the impact of trauma, coping with change, worries about drinking or drug use, self harm, resolving 'unfinished business’ and compulsive behaviours. I am a qualified supervisor, EMDR therapist and accredited by the BACP.
023 8214 6397 View 023 8214 6397
Photo of Helen Rose, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Helen Rose
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Southampton SO14
I offer a professional, confidential and friendly space for you to explore whatever is troubling you. I am open, honest and laid back and provide a safe, non-judgmental environment to explore any difficulties in your life. Talking about and exploring your emotions and feelings will help you come to your own conclusions and empower you to take your next steps in life. Talking to a counsellor can feel daunting, but can help you resolve and understand any challenges or difficulties you may be facing. Counselling can help you make sense of your emotions bringing about positive change in your life.
I offer a professional, confidential and friendly space for you to explore whatever is troubling you. I am open, honest and laid back and provide a safe, non-judgmental environment to explore any difficulties in your life. Talking about and exploring your emotions and feelings will help you come to your own conclusions and empower you to take your next steps in life. Talking to a counsellor can feel daunting, but can help you resolve and understand any challenges or difficulties you may be facing. Counselling can help you make sense of your emotions bringing about positive change in your life.
023 8214 9877 View 023 8214 9877
Photo of Samantha Elizabeth Barnes, MBACP, Counsellor
Samantha Elizabeth Barnes
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Southampton SO40
Welcome to my profile, this is your time to move forward and I can offer you therapy which is professional and effective when life presents with difficulties and challenges. My practice provides a confidential online, telephone and video-call option as well as face to face counselling support. Counselling and psychotherapy for individuals and relationship counselling for couples can be helpful and hugely rewarding at any stage of life. The counselling experience I provide is an opportunity for self-development and personal growth, building on your own particular strengths and enabling an increased sense of overall wellbeing.
Welcome to my profile, this is your time to move forward and I can offer you therapy which is professional and effective when life presents with difficulties and challenges. My practice provides a confidential online, telephone and video-call option as well as face to face counselling support. Counselling and psychotherapy for individuals and relationship counselling for couples can be helpful and hugely rewarding at any stage of life. The counselling experience I provide is an opportunity for self-development and personal growth, building on your own particular strengths and enabling an increased sense of overall wellbeing.
01962 589451 View 01962 589451
Photo of Davey Murphy, BACP, Psychotherapist
Davey Murphy
Psychotherapist, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southampton SO15
I don't believe I have an ideal client. I just think anyone that has the courage to come to therapy and face up to the challenges they are facing is the kind of client I want to work with.
I don't believe I have an ideal client. I just think anyone that has the courage to come to therapy and face up to the challenges they are facing is the kind of client I want to work with.
01329 756741 View 01329 756741
1

See more therapy options for Southampton

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.