Photo of Mark Melden, DO, FABPN, Psychiatrist
Mark Melden
Psychiatrist, DO, FABPN
Verified Verified
Coronado, CA 92118
Our numerous specialties include the following: MOOD, ANXIETY, Bipolar, Panic disorder, GERIATRIC DISORDERS, CHILD AND ADOLESCENT DISORDERS, ADD/ADHD, PSYCHOTIC DISORDERS, Schizophrenia and Schizophrenic, POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER and TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY, AUTISM and ASPERGER disorders, FORENSIC EVALUATIONS, Testamentary Changes, Disability Evaluations, Capacity Evaluations for Lanterman-Petris Short (LPS) and Probate Conservatorship, NEURO-PSYCHIATRIC TESTING, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorders, Memory Loss and Cognitive Dysfunctions, SUBSTANCE AND ALCOHOL Treatment for Alcohol and Drug Abuse, Suboxone Prescribers for Opiate Dependence, WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM
Our numerous specialties include the following: MOOD, ANXIETY, Bipolar, Panic disorder, GERIATRIC DISORDERS, CHILD AND ADOLESCENT DISORDERS, ADD/ADHD, PSYCHOTIC DISORDERS, Schizophrenia and Schizophrenic, POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER and TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY, AUTISM and ASPERGER disorders, FORENSIC EVALUATIONS, Testamentary Changes, Disability Evaluations, Capacity Evaluations for Lanterman-Petris Short (LPS) and Probate Conservatorship, NEURO-PSYCHIATRIC TESTING, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorders, Memory Loss and Cognitive Dysfunctions, SUBSTANCE AND ALCOHOL Treatment for Alcohol and Drug Abuse, Suboxone Prescribers for Opiate Dependence, WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM
(619) 432-6510 View (619) 432-6510
Photo of Christian Small, MD, ABPN, ABFM, ABPM, Psychiatrist
Christian Small
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, ABFM, ABPM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Escondido, CA 92025
Thanks for visiting! My professional experience encompasses General Psychiatry, Addiction Psychiatry and Family Medicine. I am the founder of Headlands ATS, a leader in addiction psychiatry. Our services are professional, personable, and based on methods proven to help you achieve sustainable recovery from substance use. At Headlands, we understand that the underpinnings of addiction have little to do with morality, character or personal responsibility – and everything to do with an individual trying desperately to cope with their suffering. We want to help you, give us a call.
Thanks for visiting! My professional experience encompasses General Psychiatry, Addiction Psychiatry and Family Medicine. I am the founder of Headlands ATS, a leader in addiction psychiatry. Our services are professional, personable, and based on methods proven to help you achieve sustainable recovery from substance use. At Headlands, we understand that the underpinnings of addiction have little to do with morality, character or personal responsibility – and everything to do with an individual trying desperately to cope with their suffering. We want to help you, give us a call.
(442) 280-7695 View (442) 280-7695
Joseph Stabley
Physician Assistant
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025
Our services are professional, personable, and based on methods proven to help you achieve sustainable recovery from substance use. At Headlands, we understand that the underpinnings of addiction have little to do with morality, character or personal responsibility – and everything to do with an individual trying desperately to cope with their suffering. We want to help you, give us a call.
Our services are professional, personable, and based on methods proven to help you achieve sustainable recovery from substance use. At Headlands, we understand that the underpinnings of addiction have little to do with morality, character or personal responsibility – and everything to do with an individual trying desperately to cope with their suffering. We want to help you, give us a call.
(442) 220-3803 View (442) 220-3803
Photo of Dr. Christian Small, MD, ABPN, ABPM, ABFM, Psychiatrist
Dr. Christian Small
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, ABPM, ABFM
Verified Verified
Escondido, CA 92025
Thanks for visiting! My professional experience encompasses General Psychiatry, Addiction Psychiatry and Family Medicine. I am the founder of Headlands ATS, a leader in addiction psychiatry. Our services are professional, personable, and based on methods proven to help you achieve sustainable recovery from substance use. At Headlands, we understand that the underpinnings of addiction have little to do with morality, character or personal responsibility – and everything to do with an individual trying desperately to cope with their suffering. We want to help you, give us a call.
Thanks for visiting! My professional experience encompasses General Psychiatry, Addiction Psychiatry and Family Medicine. I am the founder of Headlands ATS, a leader in addiction psychiatry. Our services are professional, personable, and based on methods proven to help you achieve sustainable recovery from substance use. At Headlands, we understand that the underpinnings of addiction have little to do with morality, character or personal responsibility – and everything to do with an individual trying desperately to cope with their suffering. We want to help you, give us a call.
(760) 975-7673 View (760) 975-7673
Photo of Michael They, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael They
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
Michael They is a board-certified Psychiatric nurse practitioner. He is treating children, adolescent, and adult clients who has Depression, Anxiety Disorders, insomnia, (eg. Panic Disorder, GAD, PTSD, OCD), ADHD, Mood Disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance use disorder and more.
Michael They is a board-certified Psychiatric nurse practitioner. He is treating children, adolescent, and adult clients who has Depression, Anxiety Disorders, insomnia, (eg. Panic Disorder, GAD, PTSD, OCD), ADHD, Mood Disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia, substance use disorder and more.
(628) 345-7949 View (628) 345-7949
Photo of Joseph Stabley, PA, Physician Assistant
Joseph Stabley
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92134
Joe is a board-certified Physician Assistant. He completed his undergraduate degree from the University of Colorado in 2011. Afterwards, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant Program through the Department of Defense and accredited by the University of Nebraska Medical Center. He was awarded a Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree and commissioned as an Officer in the US Army.​ As a PA, Joe has worked in variety of settings - including Urgent Care, Emergency Medicine, and has extensive knowledge in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine from years of service in the substance use rehab industry.
Joe is a board-certified Physician Assistant. He completed his undergraduate degree from the University of Colorado in 2011. Afterwards, he attended the Interservice Physician Assistant Program through the Department of Defense and accredited by the University of Nebraska Medical Center. He was awarded a Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree and commissioned as an Officer in the US Army.​ As a PA, Joe has worked in variety of settings - including Urgent Care, Emergency Medicine, and has extensive knowledge in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine from years of service in the substance use rehab industry.
(949) 334-5455 View (949) 334-5455
Photo of Dr. Paul Sargent, Psychiatrist
Dr. Paul Sargent
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Encinitas, CA 92024
I enjoy helping people to persevere, adapt, and GROW through the challenges they face. As a creative problem solver, I take the time to listen and understand the unique factors affecting each of my patients. This personalized and holistic approach starts with a thorough evaluation, which then informs a treatment plan that incorporates psychotherapy, mind-body interventions, and medication management. Most of my clients are professionals who appreciate a treatment plan that optimizes both symptom reduction and high mental performance both at home and on the job. I am dedicated to helping you improve your health and resilience!
I enjoy helping people to persevere, adapt, and GROW through the challenges they face. As a creative problem solver, I take the time to listen and understand the unique factors affecting each of my patients. This personalized and holistic approach starts with a thorough evaluation, which then informs a treatment plan that incorporates psychotherapy, mind-body interventions, and medication management. Most of my clients are professionals who appreciate a treatment plan that optimizes both symptom reduction and high mental performance both at home and on the job. I am dedicated to helping you improve your health and resilience!
(442) 239-4770 View (442) 239-4770
Photo of undefined - KMG Psychiatry (Dr. Ankur Bindal), MD, MPH, FAPA, FAASM, Psychiatrist
KMG Psychiatry (Dr. Ankur Bindal)
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, FAPA, FAASM
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91910  (Online Only)
KMG Psychiatry is an integrative psychiatry practice (with 3 offices in Vista, Sorrento Valley and Chula Vista areas providing convenient access) delivering high-quality, comprehensive care to the communities of San-Diego County, with a multi-faceted approach, striving to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths, creating an individualized treatment plan for every patient, using a combination of traditional and innovative treatments. We offer medication management, psychotherapy and state of the art Neurostar Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
KMG Psychiatry is an integrative psychiatry practice (with 3 offices in Vista, Sorrento Valley and Chula Vista areas providing convenient access) delivering high-quality, comprehensive care to the communities of San-Diego County, with a multi-faceted approach, striving to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths, creating an individualized treatment plan for every patient, using a combination of traditional and innovative treatments. We offer medication management, psychotherapy and state of the art Neurostar Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
(619) 393-3114 View (619) 393-3114
Photo of Ross Palmer, MD, Psychiatrist
Ross Palmer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92128  (Online Only)
Thank you for considering to work with me as your physician. I opened my private practice clinic because I wanted to create a safe, comfortable space where my patients are always valued and respected, where your most private concerns can be expressed without judgment or stigma. In addition to a calming, friendly environment, I also offer excellent medical knowledge and clinical judgment. In psychiatry residency at the University of California, San Diego, I ranked first of 58 residents by exam scores.
Thank you for considering to work with me as your physician. I opened my private practice clinic because I wanted to create a safe, comfortable space where my patients are always valued and respected, where your most private concerns can be expressed without judgment or stigma. In addition to a calming, friendly environment, I also offer excellent medical knowledge and clinical judgment. In psychiatry residency at the University of California, San Diego, I ranked first of 58 residents by exam scores.
(619) 489-6914 View (619) 489-6914
Photo of Ike Uzowulu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ike Uzowulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92128  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a master's degree in psychiatric nursing specializing in mental and behavioral health medicine. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, stress and sleep related disorders.
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a master's degree in psychiatric nursing specializing in mental and behavioral health medicine. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, stress and sleep related disorders.
(858) 221-9527 View (858) 221-9527
Photo of Brett Larson, PA-C, Physician Assistant
Brett Larson
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
In-network with most insurances. Brett Larson is a Board Certified Advanced Practitioner and Physician Assistant who specializes in providing care to those affected by a wide range of psychiatric conditions. Brett tailors treatment to each individual by utilizing various diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. This includes genetic testing, psychological testing and a careful overview of one’s physical health.
In-network with most insurances. Brett Larson is a Board Certified Advanced Practitioner and Physician Assistant who specializes in providing care to those affected by a wide range of psychiatric conditions. Brett tailors treatment to each individual by utilizing various diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. This includes genetic testing, psychological testing and a careful overview of one’s physical health.
(619) 650-5718 View (619) 650-5718
Photo of Deomel Soriano, PMHNP-C, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deomel Soriano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, MSN
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Deomel is a licensed and board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Diego, CA. He has worked as a Mental Health Associate, Licensed Vocational Nurse, Registered Nurse and now as a Nurse Practitioner. Having witnessed and experienced healthcare at different levels, Deomel is further motivated to treat individuals. He truly believes that each patient is unique and has different needs; therefore, the services they receive should be tailored to each individual. With proper treatment, people suffering from mental illness can live a normal life. ​
Deomel is a licensed and board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in San Diego, CA. He has worked as a Mental Health Associate, Licensed Vocational Nurse, Registered Nurse and now as a Nurse Practitioner. Having witnessed and experienced healthcare at different levels, Deomel is further motivated to treat individuals. He truly believes that each patient is unique and has different needs; therefore, the services they receive should be tailored to each individual. With proper treatment, people suffering from mental illness can live a normal life. ​
(858) 281-0652 View (858) 281-0652
Photo of Joseph Modestus, PMHNP, MSN, APRN, MBA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joseph Modestus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN, MBA
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
My ideal client faces a range of mental health challenges, seeking support to manage anxiety, depression, or other conditions. They need compassionate, personalized care to navigate their journey. Their goals are to achieve emotional stability, improve daily functioning, and enhance overall well-being. They want a provider who listens, understands, and collaborates with them to create an effective treatment plan. My passion for people and their stories, coupled with my dedication to mental health advocacy, drives me to help clients debunk misconceptions and achieve their goals.
My ideal client faces a range of mental health challenges, seeking support to manage anxiety, depression, or other conditions. They need compassionate, personalized care to navigate their journey. Their goals are to achieve emotional stability, improve daily functioning, and enhance overall well-being. They want a provider who listens, understands, and collaborates with them to create an effective treatment plan. My passion for people and their stories, coupled with my dedication to mental health advocacy, drives me to help clients debunk misconceptions and achieve their goals.
(213) 699-9430 View (213) 699-9430
Photo of Kyle Chen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kyle Chen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92093  (Online Only)
Kyle Chen PMHNP-BC ​ Licensed in: California ​ Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Kyle Chen is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He received his degree from California State University – Los Angeles and is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He has over 6 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient facilities. His goal is to create a collaborative relationship with you to understand your unique story and provide individualized treatments through evidence-based practices.
Kyle Chen PMHNP-BC ​ Licensed in: California ​ Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Kyle Chen is a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He received his degree from California State University – Los Angeles and is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He has over 6 years of nursing experience in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient facilities. His goal is to create a collaborative relationship with you to understand your unique story and provide individualized treatments through evidence-based practices.
(562) 991-6733 View (562) 991-6733
Photo of Pai Yeh 'art', PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Pai Yeh 'art'
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
Art Yeh (pronounced "yay!") is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). He has worked as a provider in a wide array of settings in different states. Art has done psychiatric consulting and specializes in many disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, psychosis. He has worked telehealth treating clients across the lifespan. Art treats children, adolescents, adults and geriatric. Art has made himself a dynamic behavioral health provider by providing inpatient behavioral health services to adolescents, adults, and geriatric in 4 different states.
Art Yeh (pronounced "yay!") is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). He has worked as a provider in a wide array of settings in different states. Art has done psychiatric consulting and specializes in many disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, psychosis. He has worked telehealth treating clients across the lifespan. Art treats children, adolescents, adults and geriatric. Art has made himself a dynamic behavioral health provider by providing inpatient behavioral health services to adolescents, adults, and geriatric in 4 different states.
(415) 702-2539 View (415) 702-2539

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Joshua Flatow, MD, Psychiatrist
Joshua Flatow
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802
His experience includes crisis stabilization in the emergency setting, inpatient management, outpatient medication management and psychotherapy, and substance abuse treatment.
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, psychotherapy, telemedicine, Spravato and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. Our mental health treatment center in Long Beach provides a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness.
His experience includes crisis stabilization in the emergency setting, inpatient management, outpatient medication management and psychotherapy, and substance abuse treatment.
Pacific Mind Health approaches mental health using a variety of evidence-based treatments including medication, psychotherapy, telemedicine, Spravato and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). We are excited to offer Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) - a revolutionary 3-minute procedure with equal or better efficacy to standard 40+ minute TMS protocols. Our mental health treatment center in Long Beach provides a thorough diagnostic evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that will help guide you towards wellness.
(844) 844-1654 View (844) 844-1654
Photo of Hadi Estakhri, MD, Psychiatrist
Hadi Estakhri
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
E is one of only a few psychiatrists practicing in Orange County and Los Angele area, CA who is double board-certified in both General Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry.
Hadi Estakhri, MD — or Dr. E as his patients know him — is a double board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist practicing at Allied Psychiatry and Mental Health in Newport Beach, California. He offers customized, patient-focused treatments to address the unique needs and circumstances of each patient. With more than two decades of professional experience, he has vast proficiency in the mental health field. His expertise is in treating a wide range of psychiatric and addictive disorders in both adult and adolescents.
E is one of only a few psychiatrists practicing in Orange County and Los Angele area, CA who is double board-certified in both General Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry.
Hadi Estakhri, MD — or Dr. E as his patients know him — is a double board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist practicing at Allied Psychiatry and Mental Health in Newport Beach, California. He offers customized, patient-focused treatments to address the unique needs and circumstances of each patient. With more than two decades of professional experience, he has vast proficiency in the mental health field. His expertise is in treating a wide range of psychiatric and addictive disorders in both adult and adolescents.
(949) 401-7487 View (949) 401-7487
Photo of Michael They, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael They
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Anaheim, CA 92804  (Online Only)
Michael They is a board-certified Psychiatric nurse practitioner. He is treating children, adolescent, and adult clients who has ADHD, Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Insomnia (eg. Panic Disorder, GAD, PTSD, OCD), Mood Disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia, erectile dysfunction, and substance use disorder and more.
Michael They is a board-certified Psychiatric nurse practitioner. He is treating children, adolescent, and adult clients who has ADHD, Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Insomnia (eg. Panic Disorder, GAD, PTSD, OCD), Mood Disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia, erectile dysfunction, and substance use disorder and more.
(209) 901-5307 View (209) 901-5307
Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange, CA 92868
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
(657) 255-8197 View (657) 255-8197
Photo of undefined - Center For Behavior Medicine, MD, Psychiatrist
Center For Behavior Medicine
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Yorba Linda, CA 92886
SPECIALTIES Depression disorders, anxiety disorders, including panic disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD), and PTSD, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and substance induced disorders.
Dr. Wang is a Board Certified Psychiatrist licensed to diagnose and treat common mental health illnesses, including, depression,anxiety,bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Dr. Wang's philosophy of providing medication is to individualize the treatment according to people's diagnosis, symptom profile, treatment history, and other bio-psycho-social factors. Dr. Wang received his medical education at Tianjin Medical University in 1991. He also obtained a doctorate in urology from Tianjin Medical University in 1999. Before he moved to Los Angeles, he completed his four year psychiatry residency training at the University of North Dakota.
SPECIALTIES Depression disorders, anxiety disorders, including panic disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD), and PTSD, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and substance induced disorders.
Dr. Wang is a Board Certified Psychiatrist licensed to diagnose and treat common mental health illnesses, including, depression,anxiety,bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Dr. Wang's philosophy of providing medication is to individualize the treatment according to people's diagnosis, symptom profile, treatment history, and other bio-psycho-social factors. Dr. Wang received his medical education at Tianjin Medical University in 1991. He also obtained a doctorate in urology from Tianjin Medical University in 1999. Before he moved to Los Angeles, he completed his four year psychiatry residency training at the University of North Dakota.
(714) 248-0470 View (714) 248-0470

See more therapy options for San Diego County

Addiction Psychiatrists

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.