Addiction Counselling in Edinburgh

Photo of Derek McMillan - Derek McMillan - Compassionate Inquiry, MA
Derek McMillan - Compassionate Inquiry
MA
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH10
My clients come from a wide range of backgrounds wanting to explore deeply rooted patterns, associated with a range of topics, including, addiction, relationships, depression, identity, religion/spirituality, child abuse and ADHD.
I am a certified practitioner of Gabor Mate's somatic based psychotherapeutic approach, compassionate inquiry, and a certified CI private mentor. I have a 20 year background in teaching and mentoring in psychology, philosophy and religious/moral studies. Along with my professional career I have three decades of experience exploring body-mind practices throughout Europe and Asia. My therapeutic approach is deeply rooted in building a safe therapeutic relationship. I offer my clients a non-judgemental presence, curiosity, humility, playfulness and a deep desire to work alongside you on your journey of healing and personal growth.
My clients come from a wide range of backgrounds wanting to explore deeply rooted patterns, associated with a range of topics, including, addiction, relationships, depression, identity, religion/spirituality, child abuse and ADHD.
I am a certified practitioner of Gabor Mate's somatic based psychotherapeutic approach, compassionate inquiry, and a certified CI private mentor. I have a 20 year background in teaching and mentoring in psychology, philosophy and religious/moral studies. Along with my professional career I have three decades of experience exploring body-mind practices throughout Europe and Asia. My therapeutic approach is deeply rooted in building a safe therapeutic relationship. I offer my clients a non-judgemental presence, curiosity, humility, playfulness and a deep desire to work alongside you on your journey of healing and personal growth.
01934 315055 View 01934 315055
Photo of Mhairi Spence, MBACP, Counsellor
Mhairi Spence
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You may be experiencing a range of challenges such as anxiety, stress, burnout, depression, trauma, addiction, or grief.
As an empathetic and experienced counsellor, I specialise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy while integrating Compassion-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, and Person-Centred Therapy. My approach is centred on understanding you as a unique individual, helping you gain insight into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours in a non-judgmental space.
You may be experiencing a range of challenges such as anxiety, stress, burnout, depression, trauma, addiction, or grief.
As an empathetic and experienced counsellor, I specialise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy while integrating Compassion-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, and Person-Centred Therapy. My approach is centred on understanding you as a unique individual, helping you gain insight into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours in a non-judgmental space.
01655 509988 View 01655 509988
Photo of Steve Hardie - Bu Therapy, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Bu Therapy
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I can help in areas such as addiction,anxiety, depression, eating disorders, OCD, panic attack, personality disorder, PTSD, and self-esteem.
Bu Therapy works with YOU. You are, after all, the expert with what is going on in your life today. Together we will work on areas that might be affecting your life and what you would like to change. CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy) looks at the present rather than the past and identifies negative or maladaptive thinking styles that make you see things differently and out of focus. I will work with you in a collaborative manner so we can correct this “blurred view” of life and bring clarity, focus, and direction back into your life, and “together we can come out of the darkness and into the light".
I can help in areas such as addiction,anxiety, depression, eating disorders, OCD, panic attack, personality disorder, PTSD, and self-esteem.
Bu Therapy works with YOU. You are, after all, the expert with what is going on in your life today. Together we will work on areas that might be affecting your life and what you would like to change. CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy) looks at the present rather than the past and identifies negative or maladaptive thinking styles that make you see things differently and out of focus. I will work with you in a collaborative manner so we can correct this “blurred view” of life and bring clarity, focus, and direction back into your life, and “together we can come out of the darkness and into the light".
0131 381 8361 View 0131 381 8361
Photo of Lilian Kelly - Room To Change, MBACP, Counsellor
Room To Change
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH6
I specialise in problematic drug and alcohol use, sex/pornography addiction and compulsivity (Diploma in working with sex addiction) and binge eating.
You might be experiencing problems in relationships, work and health and feel overwhelmed. Understanding your relationship with substances & behaviours is key and often the root of cause lies in the past. I'll work with you to explore the origins of unhelpful patterns of behaviour, relating to others, unresolved trauma, and feelings of anxiety & depression.
I specialise in problematic drug and alcohol use, sex/pornography addiction and compulsivity (Diploma in working with sex addiction) and binge eating.
You might be experiencing problems in relationships, work and health and feel overwhelmed. Understanding your relationship with substances & behaviours is key and often the root of cause lies in the past. I'll work with you to explore the origins of unhelpful patterns of behaviour, relating to others, unresolved trauma, and feelings of anxiety & depression.
0131 378 6646 View 0131 378 6646
Photo of Tracy Williams - Tracy Williams Therapy, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Tracy Williams Therapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH1
I offer a wide variety of services including individual counselling and psychotherapy, couples therapy, teens and young adults counselling, family counselling, online therapy, mindfulness education, substance misuse and behavioural addictions therapy, support for family and friends and corporate mindfulness.
I have an open, friendly and supportive manner, backed by my academic qualifications and many years of experience. I am trained in clinical psychology and holds both undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications in this area. I hold an MSc in Marriage, Family and Child Counselling. I also holds professional qualifications, and am highly experienced in working with alcohol and drug abuse. In addition I am a visiting lecturer for PhD students completing their final year at Glasgow's Caledonian University, and delivers mindfulness training to individuals, groups and businesses. ​
I offer a wide variety of services including individual counselling and psychotherapy, couples therapy, teens and young adults counselling, family counselling, online therapy, mindfulness education, substance misuse and behavioural addictions therapy, support for family and friends and corporate mindfulness.
I have an open, friendly and supportive manner, backed by my academic qualifications and many years of experience. I am trained in clinical psychology and holds both undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications in this area. I hold an MSc in Marriage, Family and Child Counselling. I also holds professional qualifications, and am highly experienced in working with alcohol and drug abuse. In addition I am a visiting lecturer for PhD students completing their final year at Glasgow's Caledonian University, and delivers mindfulness training to individuals, groups and businesses. ​
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Photo of Saskia Burnett, MBACP, Counsellor
Saskia Burnett
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH16
My work has covered a diverse set of peoples issues, ranging from trauma, bereavement and addiction, to relationship issues or any other aspects of life which may have become a burden.
As a therapist, I firmly believe that each of us holds the answers to our own issues within. My role here is to help you recognise these and support you in working through them. I will aim to create a trusting counselling relationship throughout our sessions, where you can feel able to express your feelings in an empathic and accepting environment. Through this collaboration, our aim would be for you to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, in turn facilitating the change you are aspiring to achieve.
My work has covered a diverse set of peoples issues, ranging from trauma, bereavement and addiction, to relationship issues or any other aspects of life which may have become a burden.
As a therapist, I firmly believe that each of us holds the answers to our own issues within. My role here is to help you recognise these and support you in working through them. I will aim to create a trusting counselling relationship throughout our sessions, where you can feel able to express your feelings in an empathic and accepting environment. Through this collaboration, our aim would be for you to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, in turn facilitating the change you are aspiring to achieve.
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Photo of Michael Hawthorne - Hawthorne Counselling, BACP, Counsellor
Hawthorne Counselling
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edinburgh EH3
Does your addiction highten your anxiety? Do you struggle to be your authentic self? Do you find it difficult to create and maintain meaningful relationships? Are you looking for a therapist that understands being part of the LGBTQI community, has battled their own addiction and understands the importance connection to help personal growth.
I can help you explore sexuality and gender identity safely but also for some there can be historical shame attached to their identity. We can remove this in therapy and help you live your life authentically and happily.
Does your addiction highten your anxiety? Do you struggle to be your authentic self? Do you find it difficult to create and maintain meaningful relationships? Are you looking for a therapist that understands being part of the LGBTQI community, has battled their own addiction and understands the importance connection to help personal growth.
I can help you explore sexuality and gender identity safely but also for some there can be historical shame attached to their identity. We can remove this in therapy and help you live your life authentically and happily.
0141 673 1971 View 0141 673 1971
Photo of Peter Lindsayhall, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Peter Lindsayhall
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I’m an experience Accredited Psychotherapist specialising in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Addiction, Depression and Traumatic stress.
I work with a modern and Integrative Cognitive & Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Having been in practice for many years I have gained skills and learning in a wide range of psycotherapeutic techniques to help people over come their problems and live full and meaningful lives.
I’m an experience Accredited Psychotherapist specialising in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Addiction, Depression and Traumatic stress.
I work with a modern and Integrative Cognitive & Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Having been in practice for many years I have gained skills and learning in a wide range of psycotherapeutic techniques to help people over come their problems and live full and meaningful lives.
0141 673 8164 View 0141 673 8164
Photo of Suzanne McNaughton - integration counselling & psychotherapy, MRes, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
integration counselling & psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MRes, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Whether you would like some help with anger, anxiety, addiction, phobias, to improve your mood, process trauma or improve your self-esteem.
By favouring an integrative approach to therapy (including CBT,CFT, TA, PCT, SFBT), a wide range of tools and techniques are utilised. Ensuring a tailored approach to your individual needs. Experience and a wide range of knowledge across various specialities: anxiety (panic disorder, OCD) addiction (alcohol, drugs, sex, porn), post traumatic stress disorder
Whether you would like some help with anger, anxiety, addiction, phobias, to improve your mood, process trauma or improve your self-esteem.
By favouring an integrative approach to therapy (including CBT,CFT, TA, PCT, SFBT), a wide range of tools and techniques are utilised. Ensuring a tailored approach to your individual needs. Experience and a wide range of knowledge across various specialities: anxiety (panic disorder, OCD) addiction (alcohol, drugs, sex, porn), post traumatic stress disorder
07723 923797 View 07723 923797
Photo of Dr Maciej Iwanowicz, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Maciej Iwanowicz
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialise in mood and affective disorders, such as depression and anxiety, I work with trauma and addiction and I have many years of experience working with ADHD, and neurodiversity.
I am a counselling psychologist who has a broad experience in both psychology and psychotherapy. When working together I will always prioritise your individual needs. Even though I have my own style of therapy I will always make sure to collaborate with you and to be as flexible as needed so we are always on the same page when working together. I hope to create a non-judgemental, safe and hopefully very comfortable environment where you can feel heard and understood.
I specialise in mood and affective disorders, such as depression and anxiety, I work with trauma and addiction and I have many years of experience working with ADHD, and neurodiversity.
I am a counselling psychologist who has a broad experience in both psychology and psychotherapy. When working together I will always prioritise your individual needs. Even though I have my own style of therapy I will always make sure to collaborate with you and to be as flexible as needed so we are always on the same page when working together. I hope to create a non-judgemental, safe and hopefully very comfortable environment where you can feel heard and understood.
0141 280 6657 View 0141 280 6657
Photo of Piotr Slaczka, MBACP, Counsellor
Piotr Slaczka
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in working with individuals struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, addictions—including pornography addiction—eating disorders, and various compulsive behaviours.
My approach to therapy is open and integrative, tailored to your individual needs and expectations. A strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation of my work. My extensive training includes a Master’s degree in Systemic Therapy, an Honours degree in Integrative Approach, and a Diploma in Humanistic Counselling, along with various specialist courses.
I specialize in working with individuals struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, addictions—including pornography addiction—eating disorders, and various compulsive behaviours.
My approach to therapy is open and integrative, tailored to your individual needs and expectations. A strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation of my work. My extensive training includes a Master’s degree in Systemic Therapy, an Honours degree in Integrative Approach, and a Diploma in Humanistic Counselling, along with various specialist courses.
0114 478 2063 View 0114 478 2063
Photo of Benjamin Ng, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Benjamin Ng
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
If you feel lost after a recent break-up, have suffered (or engaged in) an infidelity; if you struggle to connect with your partner; if you are unsure of “what to do next” after a bereavement; if you are enslaved to a substance or a behaviour, then my approach to therapy may be able to help you.
By blending Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (to treat the symptoms) with a Psychodynamic approach (to treat the cause), structured within a Family Systems framework (to understand the context), you will be able to improve your understanding of self, communicate and relate better with others, and enhance your self-esteem and self-worth.
If you feel lost after a recent break-up, have suffered (or engaged in) an infidelity; if you struggle to connect with your partner; if you are unsure of “what to do next” after a bereavement; if you are enslaved to a substance or a behaviour, then my approach to therapy may be able to help you.
By blending Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (to treat the symptoms) with a Psychodynamic approach (to treat the cause), structured within a Family Systems framework (to understand the context), you will be able to improve your understanding of self, communicate and relate better with others, and enhance your self-esteem and self-worth.
020 4572 2156 View 020 4572 2156
Photo of Jason Michael Lumb, DCounsPsych
Jason Michael Lumb
DCounsPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you concerned that your use of substances or problematic behaviour is getting out of control and is causing problems in your life? Or are you worried that you will not be able to cope without them, even though you would like to cut back or stop? Do you feel locked into thinking styles which are starting to dominate your life such as anxiety or depression and don't know what to do? Imagine if you could regain control of your life and situation so you felt happier, and were no longer dependant or worried about your substance use or problematic behaviours? Recovery is possible but sometimes we need a bit of help to get there.
Many people struggle with addiction, with such things as alcohol, cocaine,ambling or even sex addiction which is increasing as the internet expands. I can work with you at your own pace to help you recover and move on. I use (CBT) to do this, which is underpinned by more than 23 years of direct experience in helping people recover from addiction problems.
Are you concerned that your use of substances or problematic behaviour is getting out of control and is causing problems in your life? Or are you worried that you will not be able to cope without them, even though you would like to cut back or stop? Do you feel locked into thinking styles which are starting to dominate your life such as anxiety or depression and don't know what to do? Imagine if you could regain control of your life and situation so you felt happier, and were no longer dependant or worried about your substance use or problematic behaviours? Recovery is possible but sometimes we need a bit of help to get there.
Many people struggle with addiction, with such things as alcohol, cocaine,ambling or even sex addiction which is increasing as the internet expands. I can work with you at your own pace to help you recover and move on. I use (CBT) to do this, which is underpinned by more than 23 years of direct experience in helping people recover from addiction problems.
0131 381 0141 View 0131 381 0141
Photo of Joonas Pekka Vehvilainen, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Joonas Pekka Vehvilainen
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH2
Are you struggling with substance or alcohol use, trauma and/or despair? Utilising my neuroscience and addictions academic and professional background, I will support you to not just survive but regain control of your life one day at a time.
The core of the techniques provided by Cognitive Counselling are a collaborative approach to discovering what is contributing to the difficulties clients are seeking help for and resolving them. One of the most important aspects in being able to create change in ourselves, is the ability to acknowledge what needs to be changed.
Are you struggling with substance or alcohol use, trauma and/or despair? Utilising my neuroscience and addictions academic and professional background, I will support you to not just survive but regain control of your life one day at a time.
The core of the techniques provided by Cognitive Counselling are a collaborative approach to discovering what is contributing to the difficulties clients are seeking help for and resolving them. One of the most important aspects in being able to create change in ourselves, is the ability to acknowledge what needs to be changed.
0131 381 4922 View 0131 381 4922
Photo of Dr Darren O Reilly, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Darren O Reilly
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edinburgh EH1
Feeling stuck or overwhelmed in life's journey? Struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction, or procrastination? I'm a psychologist specializing in helping young adults in their 20s and 30s discover practical strategies to achieve their goals and lead happier lives.
In addition to therapy for those without ADHD, I also offer specialized ADHD coaching. Drawing from both my personal experience with ADHD and professional training, I deeply understand the unique challenges it presents. I'm dedicated to providing compassionate and effective strategies, techniques, and skills for managing ADHD.
Feeling stuck or overwhelmed in life's journey? Struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction, or procrastination? I'm a psychologist specializing in helping young adults in their 20s and 30s discover practical strategies to achieve their goals and lead happier lives.
In addition to therapy for those without ADHD, I also offer specialized ADHD coaching. Drawing from both my personal experience with ADHD and professional training, I deeply understand the unique challenges it presents. I'm dedicated to providing compassionate and effective strategies, techniques, and skills for managing ADHD.
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Photo of Tom Lawrence, MHGI, Psychotherapist
Tom Lawrence
Psychotherapist, MHGI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edinburgh EH3
If you are suffering from anxiety - depression/low mood - stress - anger problems - panic attacks - phobias - low self-esteem - self-harming - eating disorders - post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD, including military) - addiction (all kinds) - obsessions (OCD) - sleep problems - relationship problems, I can help.
As a Human Givens therapist I provide safe, reliable and practical help for emotional, behavioural and mental health difficulties. Using the best evidence based psychological knowledge about resolving such difficulties, I can help you move on with your life to be how you want to be.
If you are suffering from anxiety - depression/low mood - stress - anger problems - panic attacks - phobias - low self-esteem - self-harming - eating disorders - post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD, including military) - addiction (all kinds) - obsessions (OCD) - sleep problems - relationship problems, I can help.
As a Human Givens therapist I provide safe, reliable and practical help for emotional, behavioural and mental health difficulties. Using the best evidence based psychological knowledge about resolving such difficulties, I can help you move on with your life to be how you want to be.
07887 682291 View 07887 682291
Photo of Cynthia Rocio Gimenez Payo - Cynthia Gimenez, MSc, BACP, Counsellor
Cynthia Gimenez
Counsellor, MSc, BACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
If you're struggling with relationship issues, low self-esteem, addiction, or a variety of other challenges, I’m here to help.
I take an integrative approach to therapy, tailoring each session to your unique needs. While my training is rooted in Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), I also draw from Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Person-Centred Therapy, and other modalities. We’ll explore your goals in a safe, non-judgmental space, creating a personalized, well-rounded experience.
If you're struggling with relationship issues, low self-esteem, addiction, or a variety of other challenges, I’m here to help.
I take an integrative approach to therapy, tailoring each session to your unique needs. While my training is rooted in Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), I also draw from Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Person-Centred Therapy, and other modalities. We’ll explore your goals in a safe, non-judgmental space, creating a personalized, well-rounded experience.
0131 381 1409 View 0131 381 1409
Photo of Paul Drewnicki, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Paul Drewnicki
Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edinburgh EH6
I offer support with a focus on Trauma, Addiction, Anxiety and Depression, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Hello I’m Paul, an Art Therapist with experience helping individuals heal and grow through creativity. Registered with the HCPC, I blend psychological theories with art theory to support you in exploring your emotions and personal narratives through conversation and artistic expression.
I offer support with a focus on Trauma, Addiction, Anxiety and Depression, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Hello I’m Paul, an Art Therapist with experience helping individuals heal and grow through creativity. Registered with the HCPC, I blend psychological theories with art theory to support you in exploring your emotions and personal narratives through conversation and artistic expression.
0131 357 6121 View 0131 357 6121
Photo of Angela McLachlan, DCounsPsych, BACP, Counsellor
Angela McLachlan
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH12
I specialise in working with childhood trauma, abuse, complex trauma, anxiety and depression, as well as relational issues, low self esteem, addiction and grief.
Have you had a recent difficult experience? Or maybe you are going through something painful just now? Perhaps you feel stuck and unable to move forward? It can often be difficult to understand feelings such as anxiety, overwhelm, panic, distress, fear, immobilisation, anger or sadness. Working collaboratively with you, at your own pace, I can help you process your feelings and faciliate a deeper and compassionate understanding of your current situation. In exploring and talking about both your present and past experiences and memories, I can offer you a safe and calming space to help you move forward.
I specialise in working with childhood trauma, abuse, complex trauma, anxiety and depression, as well as relational issues, low self esteem, addiction and grief.
Have you had a recent difficult experience? Or maybe you are going through something painful just now? Perhaps you feel stuck and unable to move forward? It can often be difficult to understand feelings such as anxiety, overwhelm, panic, distress, fear, immobilisation, anger or sadness. Working collaboratively with you, at your own pace, I can help you process your feelings and faciliate a deeper and compassionate understanding of your current situation. In exploring and talking about both your present and past experiences and memories, I can offer you a safe and calming space to help you move forward.
0131 381 1458 View 0131 381 1458
Photo of Zofia Zyborska, MSc, COSRT Accred, Counsellor
Zofia Zyborska
Counsellor, MSc, COSRT Accred
Verified Verified
Edinburgh EH3
I am specifically trained and qualified to work with sex and porn addiction(s).
With 21 years’ experience, I use an integrative approach which involves understanding the causes of the difficulties whilst being solution focused. Regardless of your sexuality, gender identity relationship status or private situation, I strive to enlighten and support you whilst we work together to overcome your difficulties.
I am specifically trained and qualified to work with sex and porn addiction(s).
With 21 years’ experience, I use an integrative approach which involves understanding the causes of the difficulties whilst being solution focused. Regardless of your sexuality, gender identity relationship status or private situation, I strive to enlighten and support you whilst we work together to overcome your difficulties.
0131 357 6236 View 0131 357 6236

See more therapy options for Edinburgh

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.