Addiction Therapists in 90814

Photo of Lenwood Valentino Patterson, LCSW, CSAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lenwood Valentino Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
Waitlist for new clients
I have been working in the field of addictions for over 25 years and certified in addiction counseling.
I can assist you in overcoming barriers to living up to your full potential by exploring together (1) What are these barriers and (2) How we can heal identified specific barriers. I have overcome specific challenges in my personal life; which is evidence of how I not only have the academic experience, but also the personal experience to assist you in becoming all we know you are meant to be! My primary client base has been working with Addictions, primarily with the LGBTQ communities. I also can assist clients with extensive Traumas integrate healing into what has been an all encompassing devastation of existence.
I have been working in the field of addictions for over 25 years and certified in addiction counseling.
I can assist you in overcoming barriers to living up to your full potential by exploring together (1) What are these barriers and (2) How we can heal identified specific barriers. I have overcome specific challenges in my personal life; which is evidence of how I not only have the academic experience, but also the personal experience to assist you in becoming all we know you are meant to be! My primary client base has been working with Addictions, primarily with the LGBTQ communities. I also can assist clients with extensive Traumas integrate healing into what has been an all encompassing devastation of existence.
(562) 566-3515 View (562) 566-3515
Photo of Lilia Sheynman, PhD, CAMC II, Psychologist
Lilia Sheynman
Psychologist, PhD, CAMC II
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90814
The decision to seek therapy services is often a difficult one. Whether you are struggling with transitional life issues, addiction, anxiety, or depressed mood, you have come to the right place. Together, we can work to improve your quality of life and to maximize your potential. You should not have to live with the pain and discomfort that you are experiencing. Allow me to help you to work through the issues that are interfering in your daily life, so that you can grow and succeed. If you are questioning a previous diagnosis, or would like more clarity and direction in your treatment, we can help with Psychological Testing!
The decision to seek therapy services is often a difficult one. Whether you are struggling with transitional life issues, addiction, anxiety, or depressed mood, you have come to the right place. Together, we can work to improve your quality of life and to maximize your potential. You should not have to live with the pain and discomfort that you are experiencing. Allow me to help you to work through the issues that are interfering in your daily life, so that you can grow and succeed. If you are questioning a previous diagnosis, or would like more clarity and direction in your treatment, we can help with Psychological Testing!
(562) 276-2133 View (562) 276-2133
Photo of Christy Cosper - Sano Counseling Center, LMFT, CSAT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sano Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
Are you at a point in your life where you feel you are ready for a change but don’t know where to start? Have you been struggling to take control of an addiction or compulsive behavior and have had no luck on you own? Are you overwhelmed with negative thoughts that leave you paralyzed to take action? Are you struggling to find or maintain healthy relationships with partners, family, friends, or co-workers? Perhaps you're just finally ready to work on yourself, level-up, and enrich your life by establishing a deeper relationship with YOU.
Are you at a point in your life where you feel you are ready for a change but don’t know where to start? Have you been struggling to take control of an addiction or compulsive behavior and have had no luck on you own? Are you overwhelmed with negative thoughts that leave you paralyzed to take action? Are you struggling to find or maintain healthy relationships with partners, family, friends, or co-workers? Perhaps you're just finally ready to work on yourself, level-up, and enrich your life by establishing a deeper relationship with YOU.
(562) 268-4191 View (562) 268-4191
Photo of Christine Rivlin, LPCC, Counselor
Christine Rivlin
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing addiction issues, and eating disorders.
I work primarily with adults who are wanting to manage symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I will be with you on your path to discovery, recovery, and finding the person you would like to become. I approach therapy with a client-centered approach in order to create a safe, comfortable space for you to share and express yourself, and your vulnerabilities. We will explore healthy ways to process your trauma, regulate difficult emotions, and restore broken relationships. I believe the trust built between Client and Therapist is powerful, and necessary in order to help you through your healing journey.
I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing addiction issues, and eating disorders.
I work primarily with adults who are wanting to manage symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I will be with you on your path to discovery, recovery, and finding the person you would like to become. I approach therapy with a client-centered approach in order to create a safe, comfortable space for you to share and express yourself, and your vulnerabilities. We will explore healthy ways to process your trauma, regulate difficult emotions, and restore broken relationships. I believe the trust built between Client and Therapist is powerful, and necessary in order to help you through your healing journey.
(424) 401-7211 View (424) 401-7211
Photo of Kathlynn Gates, ASW
Kathlynn Gates
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
I have experience working with individuals who struggle with issues stemming from substance abuse, LGBTQIA+ issues, and personality disorders.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
I have experience working with individuals who struggle with issues stemming from substance abuse, LGBTQIA+ issues, and personality disorders.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
(562) 784-9147 View (562) 784-9147
Photo of Kenneth M. Sabel, PsyD , SEP, Psychologist
Kenneth M. Sabel
Psychologist, PsyD , SEP
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
I have worked in clinical settings for 12 years working with anxiety, mood disorders, codependency, depression, addiction, and trauma.
I understand the importance of needing to feel understood and seen. When therapy is successful, we often will experience a greater sense of spaciousness inside ourselves, freedom from our own judgments, and are reminded that confronting our pain won’t destroy us. The goal is not a short-term fix but instead a long-term shift that brings forth feelings of empowerment, resiliency, and a confidence that our brains and our lives can change. As a consequence of shifting our relationship to ourselves and to our pain, the uncomfortable symptoms often associated with anxiety, trauma, and depression begin to dissolve and loosen their grip.
I have worked in clinical settings for 12 years working with anxiety, mood disorders, codependency, depression, addiction, and trauma.
I understand the importance of needing to feel understood and seen. When therapy is successful, we often will experience a greater sense of spaciousness inside ourselves, freedom from our own judgments, and are reminded that confronting our pain won’t destroy us. The goal is not a short-term fix but instead a long-term shift that brings forth feelings of empowerment, resiliency, and a confidence that our brains and our lives can change. As a consequence of shifting our relationship to ourselves and to our pain, the uncomfortable symptoms often associated with anxiety, trauma, and depression begin to dissolve and loosen their grip.
(562) 372-6484 View (562) 372-6484
Photo of Kevin J Woolums, MA, LMFT, PhD Can, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kevin J Woolums
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PhD Can
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
With a masters in marriage and family therapy, PHD studies in depth psychology and years of specialization in addiction treatment, existential crisis, mood disorder and the process of individuation, I can help you through leading clinical intervention and a sharp, curious and gentle ear to the unconscious.
When deciding to see a therapist, it is important to find a fit that is right for you. This is why my practice aims to provide deep and safe sessions that ignite real insight, exploration, hope and change. You need a safe space, knowledgeable support and a collaborative effort. With over a decade of working in counseling psychology and extensive postgraduate work in depth psychology, dreams, and more, I am confident that our time together can help you discover the infections beneath difficult symptoms, the hidden treasure within our greatest obstacles and desired support at a pace that is right for you.
With a masters in marriage and family therapy, PHD studies in depth psychology and years of specialization in addiction treatment, existential crisis, mood disorder and the process of individuation, I can help you through leading clinical intervention and a sharp, curious and gentle ear to the unconscious.
When deciding to see a therapist, it is important to find a fit that is right for you. This is why my practice aims to provide deep and safe sessions that ignite real insight, exploration, hope and change. You need a safe space, knowledgeable support and a collaborative effort. With over a decade of working in counseling psychology and extensive postgraduate work in depth psychology, dreams, and more, I am confident that our time together can help you discover the infections beneath difficult symptoms, the hidden treasure within our greatest obstacles and desired support at a pace that is right for you.
(916) 571-0197 View (916) 571-0197
Photo of Tiana Rogachevsky- -Clinical Director - DBT Center of Long Beach, Marriage & Family Therapist
DBT Center of Long Beach
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
Located in Long Beach, CA, DBT Center of Long Beach was founded to provide a compassionate, welcoming and supportive environment for individuals seeking treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), anxiety, depression, self-harm, substance abuse and suicidal ideation through Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Located in Long Beach, CA, DBT Center of Long Beach was founded to provide a compassionate, welcoming and supportive environment for individuals seeking treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), anxiety, depression, self-harm, substance abuse and suicidal ideation through Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
(949) 649-4965 View (949) 649-4965
Photo of Alexa Enyart, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Alexa Enyart
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
I also specialize in eating disorders and addiction.
Do you feel as though your anxiety and depression are unmanageable? How about feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or helplessness like you’ve hit rock bottom and are struggling to find hope for tomorrow? Once we start to unravel the details of our past and trauma we give ourselves the ability to process feelings that we have long suppressed. I aim to collaborate with you and provide tools to decrease the challenging feelings you are currently facing and achieve a more integrated and balanced sense of self, leading to emotional healing and personal growth.
I also specialize in eating disorders and addiction.
Do you feel as though your anxiety and depression are unmanageable? How about feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or helplessness like you’ve hit rock bottom and are struggling to find hope for tomorrow? Once we start to unravel the details of our past and trauma we give ourselves the ability to process feelings that we have long suppressed. I aim to collaborate with you and provide tools to decrease the challenging feelings you are currently facing and achieve a more integrated and balanced sense of self, leading to emotional healing and personal growth.
(562) 784-8945 View (562) 784-8945
Photo of Veronica Ghabour, APCC, Counselor
Veronica Ghabour
Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
(562) 372-8767 View (562) 372-8767
Photo of Roger Justin Wood, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Roger Justin Wood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
I work with adolescents, adults, couples and families helping with the following: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, PTSD, intimacy issues, addiction, self esteem, bipolar, parenting, and communication.
I have been in private practice for over twenty five years and am wholly dedicated to providing my clients with the best care possible. In my practice I create a safe place for you to explore past and present issues blocking you from expressing yourself in your relationships and preventing you from accomplishing your goals or even having goals.
I work with adolescents, adults, couples and families helping with the following: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, PTSD, intimacy issues, addiction, self esteem, bipolar, parenting, and communication.
I have been in private practice for over twenty five years and am wholly dedicated to providing my clients with the best care possible. In my practice I create a safe place for you to explore past and present issues blocking you from expressing yourself in your relationships and preventing you from accomplishing your goals or even having goals.
(714) 462-1687 View (714) 462-1687
Photo of Brittney Green, LMFT, EMDR, IFS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brittney Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, IFS
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
Life can feel impossible to avoid struggling and we often don't feel we have the skills to cope successfully through. Unfortunately, sometimes we don't have all the resources we need for a given situation. Parts of us take on desperate roles trying to help us to survive. This might look like anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and relationship/family issues. I aim to help you process unresolved issues and feelings and find solutions.
Life can feel impossible to avoid struggling and we often don't feel we have the skills to cope successfully through. Unfortunately, sometimes we don't have all the resources we need for a given situation. Parts of us take on desperate roles trying to help us to survive. This might look like anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and relationship/family issues. I aim to help you process unresolved issues and feelings and find solutions.
(562) 222-5875 View (562) 222-5875
Photo of For More Information - Insightful Matters Family Counseling Professionals, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Insightful Matters Family Counseling Professionals
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814  (Online Only)
Other specializations include EMDR, John Gottman, EFT, DBT, CBT, Art Therapy, LGBTQ, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse and several others.
Cannot find someone who takes your insurance? Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back or there being a schedule conflict? Insightful Matters may be the solution for you. Here, you call one number and you are taken care of. You have access to using your insurance if you wish, a full range of therapists to choose from, days & times, as well as specialties. You can check out our individual profiles here on psychology today and on our website at www.insightfulmatters.com.
Other specializations include EMDR, John Gottman, EFT, DBT, CBT, Art Therapy, LGBTQ, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse and several others.
Cannot find someone who takes your insurance? Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back or there being a schedule conflict? Insightful Matters may be the solution for you. Here, you call one number and you are taken care of. You have access to using your insurance if you wish, a full range of therapists to choose from, days & times, as well as specialties. You can check out our individual profiles here on psychology today and on our website at www.insightfulmatters.com.
(714) 654-1570 View (714) 654-1570
Photo of Cathy Trenary, APCC
Cathy Trenary
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
I believe in a holistic, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approach to healing anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction.
Our life experiences can lead us to question our identity and purpose in the world we live in. This can lead us to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Do you want to improve how you face challenges, function in your relationships, and face overwhelming feelings? I place heavy importance on addressing trauma. Trauma disintegrates the parts that make up your whole self, which can leave aspects of who you are hidden from your awareness. Left unaddressed, anxiety and depression can worsen, which can rob you of the necessary connection that all human beings need to thrive. I aim to help you process unresolved trauma.
I believe in a holistic, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approach to healing anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction.
Our life experiences can lead us to question our identity and purpose in the world we live in. This can lead us to anxiety, depression, and trauma. Do you want to improve how you face challenges, function in your relationships, and face overwhelming feelings? I place heavy importance on addressing trauma. Trauma disintegrates the parts that make up your whole self, which can leave aspects of who you are hidden from your awareness. Left unaddressed, anxiety and depression can worsen, which can rob you of the necessary connection that all human beings need to thrive. I aim to help you process unresolved trauma.
(562) 662-4861 View (562) 662-4861
Photo of Hector F De Los Santos, PhD, Psychologist
Hector F De Los Santos
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90814  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with clients from different racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds and incorporating those facets into a more holistic approach to therapy. I have extensive experience using evidence-based treatments to address depression, anxiety, trauma and substance disorders.
I enjoy working with clients from different racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds and incorporating those facets into a more holistic approach to therapy. I have extensive experience using evidence-based treatments to address depression, anxiety, trauma and substance disorders.
(562) 685-9172 View (562) 685-9172
Photo of Tatiana Itskowitz, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Tatiana Itskowitz
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90814
My background is in working with substance use, trauma, and anxiety.
I am a therapist that brings compassion, curiosity, and connection to the forefront of our work together. As your therapist, I believe providing a supportive, empathetic environment is key in creating a space where you can gain insight, access your inner strength, and move forward with your healing. During the process, we may look at your past to see what beliefs still serve you and which do not, identify emotions and process them, and focus on navigating and developing your connections to others and self.
My background is in working with substance use, trauma, and anxiety.
I am a therapist that brings compassion, curiosity, and connection to the forefront of our work together. As your therapist, I believe providing a supportive, empathetic environment is key in creating a space where you can gain insight, access your inner strength, and move forward with your healing. During the process, we may look at your past to see what beliefs still serve you and which do not, identify emotions and process them, and focus on navigating and developing your connections to others and self.
(562) 620-8577 View (562) 620-8577
Photo of Amy Lynn Peer, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy Lynn Peer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
I work with you to uncover those self-defeating beliefs and behaviors that can make life problematic. Working together, my intention is to help you gain insight into yourself and to encourage change that moves you forward toward fulfilling your goals and dreams. Clients come to me with anxiety, anger issues, depression, marital issues including infidelity, family conflicts, grief and loss, co-dependency, Adult Child of Alcoholics/Addicts issues, and problems with substance use. Furthermore, I work with young women in their 20's and 30's trying to navigate through life transitions, relationship and career issues.
I work with you to uncover those self-defeating beliefs and behaviors that can make life problematic. Working together, my intention is to help you gain insight into yourself and to encourage change that moves you forward toward fulfilling your goals and dreams. Clients come to me with anxiety, anger issues, depression, marital issues including infidelity, family conflicts, grief and loss, co-dependency, Adult Child of Alcoholics/Addicts issues, and problems with substance use. Furthermore, I work with young women in their 20's and 30's trying to navigate through life transitions, relationship and career issues.
(562) 418-5036 View (562) 418-5036
Photo of Andrea L Bell, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea L Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90814
I work with many people who feel overwhelmed--by traumatic events, or simply when modern life, feelings or relationships are "too much". Some tried regular talk therapy, but their symptoms didn't shift. This is often because the stress response is stuck in the body. This can show up as PTSD, anxiety, depression, low motivation, panic attacks, substance abuse, eating disorders, etc.My clients learn what their bodies are trying to tell them and how to stop symptoms & support healthy well-being. I have a knack for working with unusual or "out of the box" folks.
I work with many people who feel overwhelmed--by traumatic events, or simply when modern life, feelings or relationships are "too much". Some tried regular talk therapy, but their symptoms didn't shift. This is often because the stress response is stuck in the body. This can show up as PTSD, anxiety, depression, low motivation, panic attacks, substance abuse, eating disorders, etc.My clients learn what their bodies are trying to tell them and how to stop symptoms & support healthy well-being. I have a knack for working with unusual or "out of the box" folks.
(562) 667-5896 View (562) 667-5896
Photo of Kelly Albrecht, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelly Albrecht
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders, my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem Solving Therapy and somatic interventions.
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders, my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem Solving Therapy and somatic interventions.
(562) 554-7856 View (562) 554-7856
Photo of Catherine McRay, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Catherine McRay
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
Hi there, I'm Catherine! I am an LMFT with experience treating severe mental health disorders, and adolescents dealing with a wide variety of trauma, domestic violence, sex trafficking, addiction, and parenting practices. No matter what the experience is, I work from a trauma-informed care approach which provides an environment of understanding, compassion, and a non-judgmental experience. I often practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, depending on what is needed for the client. I also integrate Attachment Theory into many of my sessions.
Hi there, I'm Catherine! I am an LMFT with experience treating severe mental health disorders, and adolescents dealing with a wide variety of trauma, domestic violence, sex trafficking, addiction, and parenting practices. No matter what the experience is, I work from a trauma-informed care approach which provides an environment of understanding, compassion, and a non-judgmental experience. I often practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, depending on what is needed for the client. I also integrate Attachment Theory into many of my sessions.
(909) 415-5012 View (909) 415-5012

See more therapy options for 90814

Addiction Therapists

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.