Photo of Patrick Balsley, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in 28105, NC
Patrick Balsley
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Patrick Balsley is a North Carolina Addiction Specialists Professional Practice Board Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and Structured Family Recovery® Counselor who has dedicated his life to serving individuals and families struggling with addiction.
Patrick Balsley is a North Carolina Addiction Specialists Professional Practice Board Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and Structured Family Recovery® Counselor who has dedicated his life to serving individuals and families struggling with addiction.
(704) 385-7319 View (704) 385-7319
Photo of Katie Laney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28105, NC
Katie Laney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
Katie has experience working as an outpatient psychotherapist in community medical settings, non-profit agencies, and substance abuse treatment facilities. Through the therapy process, Katie works with patients to promote emotional well-being, self-awareness, and better overall growth and development.
Katie has experience working as an outpatient psychotherapist in community medical settings, non-profit agencies, and substance abuse treatment facilities. Through the therapy process, Katie works with patients to promote emotional well-being, self-awareness, and better overall growth and development.
(704) 459-3609 x4 View (704) 459-3609 x4
Photo of Boyce L Smith, Counselor in 28105, NC
Boyce L Smith
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, LCAS, CCS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Areas of expertise include: substance use, trauma, mood/anxiety concerns, relationship issues, life changes/adjustments, grief/loss, non-monogamous and polyamorous couples, gender and sexual identity, LGBTQI+ individuals, men's issues, anger management, depression, and working with individual, couples, families.
Taking the step to seek out counseling takes tremendous courage and vulnerability. My approach in counseling is holistic and takes into account the whole body, mind, and spirit. As a therapist I treat individuals, couples, and families regardless of race, age, sexuality, gender, religion, or ethnicity. Both professionally and personally, I believe that we all have what is necessary for true growth and change. Join me on the journey of exploring your needs and goals to help you accomplish a desired outcome.
Areas of expertise include: substance use, trauma, mood/anxiety concerns, relationship issues, life changes/adjustments, grief/loss, non-monogamous and polyamorous couples, gender and sexual identity, LGBTQI+ individuals, men's issues, anger management, depression, and working with individual, couples, families.
Taking the step to seek out counseling takes tremendous courage and vulnerability. My approach in counseling is holistic and takes into account the whole body, mind, and spirit. As a therapist I treat individuals, couples, and families regardless of race, age, sexuality, gender, religion, or ethnicity. Both professionally and personally, I believe that we all have what is necessary for true growth and change. Join me on the journey of exploring your needs and goals to help you accomplish a desired outcome.
(704) 703-3298 View (704) 703-3298
Photo of Kristina Mathews Acosta, Licensed Professional Counselor in 28105, NC
Kristina Mathews Acosta
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCAS, LCMHC, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
We specialize in trauma, grief, troubled teens, adults, anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, wellness, and addiction for all ages.
Does life seem a bit overwhelming? Does your mind keep racing and are you having trouble sleeping? Do you feel down? Do you feel the weight of the world on your shoulders? If you or your loved one have answered yes to any of these questions, you are not alone, we can help! It is normal to have obstacles occur as we travel through life, but when it starts to interfere with our daily living we may experience frustration, sadness, confusion, and uneasiness. Getting help with these issues may lead to a more fulfilling life for you. Together, you and I will work together to meet your individual goals.
We specialize in trauma, grief, troubled teens, adults, anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, wellness, and addiction for all ages.
Does life seem a bit overwhelming? Does your mind keep racing and are you having trouble sleeping? Do you feel down? Do you feel the weight of the world on your shoulders? If you or your loved one have answered yes to any of these questions, you are not alone, we can help! It is normal to have obstacles occur as we travel through life, but when it starts to interfere with our daily living we may experience frustration, sadness, confusion, and uneasiness. Getting help with these issues may lead to a more fulfilling life for you. Together, you and I will work together to meet your individual goals.
(704) 286-6227 View (704) 286-6227
Photo of Jessica Evans, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28105, NC
Jessica Evans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, Experiential Therapist, and trained in the trauma resolution therapy of Brainspotting.
I provide individual, couple’s, family, intensive, and group therapy to adults. My clients are seeking relief from their trauma, dysfunctional relationships, shame, addictions, compulsive sexual behavior, disordered eating, grief, and codependency. Typically my clients are over functioning in many areas but cannot pinpoint why they struggle in relationship with others or feel chronically unhappy. Many of my clients identify as Adult Children of Alcoholic and Dysfunctional families or have addiction in their family system.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, Experiential Therapist, and trained in the trauma resolution therapy of Brainspotting.
I provide individual, couple’s, family, intensive, and group therapy to adults. My clients are seeking relief from their trauma, dysfunctional relationships, shame, addictions, compulsive sexual behavior, disordered eating, grief, and codependency. Typically my clients are over functioning in many areas but cannot pinpoint why they struggle in relationship with others or feel chronically unhappy. Many of my clients identify as Adult Children of Alcoholic and Dysfunctional families or have addiction in their family system.
(704) 272-2302 View (704) 272-2302
Photo of Advene Health Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28105, NC
Advene Health Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, addiction, grief and loss, living with chronic medical conditions, self-esteem issues, and relationship and career issues, among others.
My idea as a psychotherapist is to provide safe, comfortable & judgment-free environment for clients to work through issues. My role as a psychotherapist is to respect the goals that my clients come in with, and support the process of working toward these goals. I believe Psychotherapy can enhance one's self-awareness and the ability to recognize in one's own self-defeating and self-sabotaging patterns, and to change these patterns.
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, addiction, grief and loss, living with chronic medical conditions, self-esteem issues, and relationship and career issues, among others.
My idea as a psychotherapist is to provide safe, comfortable & judgment-free environment for clients to work through issues. My role as a psychotherapist is to respect the goals that my clients come in with, and support the process of working toward these goals. I believe Psychotherapy can enhance one's self-awareness and the ability to recognize in one's own self-defeating and self-sabotaging patterns, and to change these patterns.
(980) 247-4144 View (980) 247-4144
Photo of Clover McKinney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28105, NC
Clover McKinney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Clover and I am a licensed clinical therapist and addiction specialist in the state of North Carolina and I use she/her pronouns. I look forward to the opportunity of learning and working together as part of our therapeutic process. I enjoy working with folks who are gender diverse and members of the LGBTQIA+ community who experience unique stressors and conflicts with their day-to-day lives. I also love working with folks who struggle with substance use either in addition to other life stressors or on its own.
Hello! My name is Clover and I am a licensed clinical therapist and addiction specialist in the state of North Carolina and I use she/her pronouns. I look forward to the opportunity of learning and working together as part of our therapeutic process. I enjoy working with folks who are gender diverse and members of the LGBTQIA+ community who experience unique stressors and conflicts with their day-to-day lives. I also love working with folks who struggle with substance use either in addition to other life stressors or on its own.
(704) 459-3220 View (704) 459-3220
Photo of LaVeta Blaylock, Marriage & Family Therapist in 28105, NC
LaVeta Blaylock
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MCAP, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
She is certified as an addiction and anxiety professional and treatment areas she works with include relationship issues, mood disorders, addiction, and coping skills.
Let's face it, change can be difficult! Luckily there are ways to learn to adjust and adapt to the ever constant changes in life and you are the key. As a client you can expect to be in the driver seat of your therapeutic journey. LaVeta believes that clients are resourceful and resilient within their own lives. Initially starting therapy can be scary and intimidating. LaVeta provides a warm and inviting experience to include empathic and reflective listening skills as she is here to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and treatment. So if you are ready to take that step, lets buckle up!
She is certified as an addiction and anxiety professional and treatment areas she works with include relationship issues, mood disorders, addiction, and coping skills.
Let's face it, change can be difficult! Luckily there are ways to learn to adjust and adapt to the ever constant changes in life and you are the key. As a client you can expect to be in the driver seat of your therapeutic journey. LaVeta believes that clients are resourceful and resilient within their own lives. Initially starting therapy can be scary and intimidating. LaVeta provides a warm and inviting experience to include empathic and reflective listening skills as she is here to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and treatment. So if you are ready to take that step, lets buckle up!
(980) 372-3855 View (980) 372-3855
Photo of Caroline Cotto/Progress to Peace, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28105, NC
Caroline Cotto/Progress to Peace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
I specialize in substance use disorder, depression and anxiety, trauma, occupational stress and conflict, aging, couples/partner counseling, adolescents, parenting and family therapy.
Seeking a counselor can be hard, even scary. I provide a welcoming place that is quiet, safe and relaxing. This is your time to decide what you most want, what changes you can make, and how to do it. At your initial visit you get to tell your story and discuss your goals. Within our first meeting we create a plan for how to make the changes you want. There's no rush and no pressure. I believe everyone has the power to get the life they want. It will take some work, and you now have a partner to guide you there.
I specialize in substance use disorder, depression and anxiety, trauma, occupational stress and conflict, aging, couples/partner counseling, adolescents, parenting and family therapy.
Seeking a counselor can be hard, even scary. I provide a welcoming place that is quiet, safe and relaxing. This is your time to decide what you most want, what changes you can make, and how to do it. At your initial visit you get to tell your story and discuss your goals. Within our first meeting we create a plan for how to make the changes you want. There's no rush and no pressure. I believe everyone has the power to get the life they want. It will take some work, and you now have a partner to guide you there.
(704) 594-8047 View (704) 594-8047
Photo of Niki Mullis, Marriage & Family Therapist in 28105, NC
Niki Mullis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
She has provided services to clients addressing a wide range of concerns, including sexuality, anxiety, depression, broken relationships, self-worth, addiction, life stressors, attachment injuries, trauma, work-life balance, self-compassion, communication issues, and spirituality.
Niki Mullis is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist Associate. A graduate of Queens University with a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Health Services, Niki completed her graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pfeiffer University. She is a Prepare/Enrich facilitator and offers pre-marital counseling. Niki is also certified in the Level 1 Gottman Method and continuing training to become fully certified.
She has provided services to clients addressing a wide range of concerns, including sexuality, anxiety, depression, broken relationships, self-worth, addiction, life stressors, attachment injuries, trauma, work-life balance, self-compassion, communication issues, and spirituality.
Niki Mullis is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist Associate. A graduate of Queens University with a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Health Services, Niki completed her graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pfeiffer University. She is a Prepare/Enrich facilitator and offers pre-marital counseling. Niki is also certified in the Level 1 Gottman Method and continuing training to become fully certified.
(980) 399-5825 View (980) 399-5825
Photo of Lauren Ivey in 28105, NC
Lauren Ivey
MA, LCAS, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
I have 6+ years of experience in treating substance use and concurrent mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, codependency, low self-esteem, internal conflict, stress management, and relapse prevention.
I am a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist in NC with an additional specialization in the clinical treatment of trauma. I graduated from Liberty University with a Master’s degree in Applied and Developmental Psychology. I implement a strength-based and person-centered approach and firmly believe that every individual has the capacity for growth and change. I'm passionate about helping clients identify strengths, establish healthy coping strategies, increase self-awareness, and ultimately work toward long-term healing and recovery.
I have 6+ years of experience in treating substance use and concurrent mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, codependency, low self-esteem, internal conflict, stress management, and relapse prevention.
I am a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist in NC with an additional specialization in the clinical treatment of trauma. I graduated from Liberty University with a Master’s degree in Applied and Developmental Psychology. I implement a strength-based and person-centered approach and firmly believe that every individual has the capacity for growth and change. I'm passionate about helping clients identify strengths, establish healthy coping strategies, increase self-awareness, and ultimately work toward long-term healing and recovery.
(704) 741-8281 View (704) 741-8281
Photo of Jennifer Quade, Counselor in 28105, NC
Jennifer Quade
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck, unsupported, disconnected, or out of balance in your life? You are not alone, and you are capable of learning new ways to manage life stressors to move towards happiness and growth. Whether you are struggling with addiction, have relationship issues, are overwhelmed with anxiety, or are stuck in depression, you can learn to free yourself from distress by managing negative thoughts and emotions, engaging in healthy communication, and setting boundaries that protect and support you and those you care about.
Do you feel stuck, unsupported, disconnected, or out of balance in your life? You are not alone, and you are capable of learning new ways to manage life stressors to move towards happiness and growth. Whether you are struggling with addiction, have relationship issues, are overwhelmed with anxiety, or are stuck in depression, you can learn to free yourself from distress by managing negative thoughts and emotions, engaging in healthy communication, and setting boundaries that protect and support you and those you care about.
(704) 200-9553 View (704) 200-9553
Photo of Alysann Whitley Price, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28105, NC
Alysann Whitley Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
Hi, my name is Alysann and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based, which means I will empower you by building on your strengths. I specialize in OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Alcohol Addiction, Eating Disorders, Sleep/Insomnia, Stress, Self-esteem, Coping Skills, and Chronic Pain. I am trained in many different modalities such as, ERP, DBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and ACT, but I will tailor my therapy modality to the individual and find which approach will aid you the most to help accomplish any goals you might have.
Hi, my name is Alysann and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience. My therapeutic approach is strengths-based, which means I will empower you by building on your strengths. I specialize in OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Alcohol Addiction, Eating Disorders, Sleep/Insomnia, Stress, Self-esteem, Coping Skills, and Chronic Pain. I am trained in many different modalities such as, ERP, DBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and ACT, but I will tailor my therapy modality to the individual and find which approach will aid you the most to help accomplish any goals you might have.
(919) 925-4566 View (919) 925-4566
Photo of Silver Lining Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in 28105, NC
Silver Lining Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
We are so glad you’re here. You have just taken the first step in your healing journey. From this day forward, the therapists at Silver Lining Counseling will help you develop positive thoughts and beliefs about yourself, will help you reduce anxiety so you can feel empowered to accomplish your goals and dreams, and will help you change unhealthy patterns of behavior that are affecting your life in negative ways.
We are so glad you’re here. You have just taken the first step in your healing journey. From this day forward, the therapists at Silver Lining Counseling will help you develop positive thoughts and beliefs about yourself, will help you reduce anxiety so you can feel empowered to accomplish your goals and dreams, and will help you change unhealthy patterns of behavior that are affecting your life in negative ways.
(704) 842-9001 View (704) 842-9001
Photo of Karen D. Hernandez, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in 28105, NC
Karen D. Hernandez
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Hi! Im Karen, and I am an LCMHC, LCAS, ( 8 years ) in providing therapy for clients. I graduated from Lenoir Rhyne University, Hickory, North Carolina. I currently serve clients from ages 10-99 years old. So just as my slogan says I want to help you recover, rejuvenate, and replenish. Together we can work to build your resilience so that whatever you may be dealing with in life you won't get down and stay down you will learn the skills in sessions and be able to rejuvenate (the act of energizing, revitalizing) yourself and get back up.
Hi! Im Karen, and I am an LCMHC, LCAS, ( 8 years ) in providing therapy for clients. I graduated from Lenoir Rhyne University, Hickory, North Carolina. I currently serve clients from ages 10-99 years old. So just as my slogan says I want to help you recover, rejuvenate, and replenish. Together we can work to build your resilience so that whatever you may be dealing with in life you won't get down and stay down you will learn the skills in sessions and be able to rejuvenate (the act of energizing, revitalizing) yourself and get back up.
(828) 382-8606 View (828) 382-8606
Photo of Abbey Vann, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 28105, NC
Abbey Vann
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Do you ever find yourself saying "It is not supposed to be this way"? At times we have all felt lost in life, or found ourselves in a place we do not wish to be. Whether it be at the hands of trauma, loss of self-esteem, familial discord, or failed relationships, sometimes we all need some guidance getting back to our best version of ourselves.
Do you ever find yourself saying "It is not supposed to be this way"? At times we have all felt lost in life, or found ourselves in a place we do not wish to be. Whether it be at the hands of trauma, loss of self-esteem, familial discord, or failed relationships, sometimes we all need some guidance getting back to our best version of ourselves.
(704) 665-5963 View (704) 665-5963
Photo of Christian Cagle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28105, NC
Christian Cagle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate in the state of NC, and received my Masters of Social Work at UNC Chapel Hill. I have experience working at inpatient behavioral health settings, hospital systems, multidisciplinary collaborative care clinics, and in private practice. I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR (trauma),and utilize other therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), motivational Interviewing, talk-therapy, and solution-focused. I am proud to serve clients with a wide rage of ages (early adolescence through older adulthood), and from a wide range of backgrounds.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate in the state of NC, and received my Masters of Social Work at UNC Chapel Hill. I have experience working at inpatient behavioral health settings, hospital systems, multidisciplinary collaborative care clinics, and in private practice. I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR (trauma),and utilize other therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), motivational Interviewing, talk-therapy, and solution-focused. I am proud to serve clients with a wide rage of ages (early adolescence through older adulthood), and from a wide range of backgrounds.
(704) 459-2170 View (704) 459-2170
Photo of Claudia De Los Rios, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in 28105, NC
Claudia De Los Rios
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
Are you noticing that you're hitting a wall in your life, and realizing something needs to change? Are you feeling driven to live without the weight of the pressures of the world on your shoulders? Oftentimes we feel burdened by the routine of day-to-day, overcome by our emotions, have trauma, grief, or use substances to cope.
Are you noticing that you're hitting a wall in your life, and realizing something needs to change? Are you feeling driven to live without the weight of the pressures of the world on your shoulders? Oftentimes we feel burdened by the routine of day-to-day, overcome by our emotions, have trauma, grief, or use substances to cope.
(704) 742-2384 View (704) 742-2384
Photo of Sandra Schoonover, PhD, Psychologist in 28105, NC
Sandra Schoonover, PhD
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy offers a place and relationship in which to be heard, to be understood and to experience growth and change. My practice offers opportunities to a wide variety of people for insight and understanding that makes a difference in how life is lived. Therapy begins with the development of a meaningful relationship grounded in compassion, patience and appreciation for your needs and personal experiences.I work with individuals seeking general insight and self-discovery to those suffering from chronic or debilitating issues. My practice involves work with individuals, couples and families.
Therapy offers a place and relationship in which to be heard, to be understood and to experience growth and change. My practice offers opportunities to a wide variety of people for insight and understanding that makes a difference in how life is lived. Therapy begins with the development of a meaningful relationship grounded in compassion, patience and appreciation for your needs and personal experiences.I work with individuals seeking general insight and self-discovery to those suffering from chronic or debilitating issues. My practice involves work with individuals, couples and families.
(704) 766-8675 View (704) 766-8675
Photo of Celeste Schmidt, Counselor in 28105, NC
Celeste Schmidt
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Do you often feel overwhelmed by the world we currently live in? Do you have trouble regulating your emotions, feeling motivated, or feel "stuck" because of things that have happened to you in the past? I am trained in DBT and EMDR and work with individuals who are struggling with mood disorders, life transitions, and past trauma. I would love the opportunity to work alongside you on your healing journey. I want to give you the safe space needed to process what's going on and provide skills to help you become more adaptive.
Do you often feel overwhelmed by the world we currently live in? Do you have trouble regulating your emotions, feeling motivated, or feel "stuck" because of things that have happened to you in the past? I am trained in DBT and EMDR and work with individuals who are struggling with mood disorders, life transitions, and past trauma. I would love the opportunity to work alongside you on your healing journey. I want to give you the safe space needed to process what's going on and provide skills to help you become more adaptive.
(704) 327-0429 View (704) 327-0429
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.