Addiction Therapists in 80302

Photo of Mila Long: Recovery Quest Counseling, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in 80302, CO
Mila Long: Recovery Quest Counseling
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CAS, BST, DBTC, RP, ADS
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
I am a passionate person in recovery committed to creating health & wellness for individuals & families. As a licensed Substance Abuse Counselor, Trauma Therapist, Wellness Consultant, Family Specialist, Acupuncturist & Energy Healer, I use my expertise & personal experience to create a comfortable space to process what can be the uncomfortable parts of life. I am trained thoroughly in brain chemistry & the nervous systems, & I am passionate about empowering people to both understand & recreate their physiological responses. I also use holistic approaches to heal the mind & body simultaneously - I’m here to support your journey!
I am a passionate person in recovery committed to creating health & wellness for individuals & families. As a licensed Substance Abuse Counselor, Trauma Therapist, Wellness Consultant, Family Specialist, Acupuncturist & Energy Healer, I use my expertise & personal experience to create a comfortable space to process what can be the uncomfortable parts of life. I am trained thoroughly in brain chemistry & the nervous systems, & I am passionate about empowering people to both understand & recreate their physiological responses. I also use holistic approaches to heal the mind & body simultaneously - I’m here to support your journey!
(970) 598-0752 View (970) 598-0752
Photo of Cyndi Rutledge, Psychologist in 80302, CO
Cyndi Rutledge
Psychologist, EdD, CACIII
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad or hopeless? Having trouble with substance abuse? My practice focuses on helping adults of all ages struggling with substance abuse, relationship problems, trauma, depression and anxiety. Providing a safe, stress-free, accepting environment, I will help guide you toward relief and success in your daily life. I have experience working with young men and women in college and men and women of all ages on their personal struggles. I hope you will allow me help you take control of your life and become the happy, content and motivated person you are meant to be.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad or hopeless? Having trouble with substance abuse? My practice focuses on helping adults of all ages struggling with substance abuse, relationship problems, trauma, depression and anxiety. Providing a safe, stress-free, accepting environment, I will help guide you toward relief and success in your daily life. I have experience working with young men and women in college and men and women of all ages on their personal struggles. I hope you will allow me help you take control of your life and become the happy, content and motivated person you are meant to be.
(720) 213-5748 View (720) 213-5748
Photo of Kat Austin, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80302, CO
Kat Austin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
Working with addiction: I have years of experience working with addiction issues.
Couples therapy: I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy. EFT leads a couple to get right to the heart of the problems that keep relationships unsatisfying and disconnected. The goal of EFT is to help you create safety and security in your relationship so that deep connection can grow from the practice of honesty and vulnerability. EFT has been found to be successful with about 75% of couples.
Working with addiction: I have years of experience working with addiction issues.
Couples therapy: I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy. EFT leads a couple to get right to the heart of the problems that keep relationships unsatisfying and disconnected. The goal of EFT is to help you create safety and security in your relationship so that deep connection can grow from the practice of honesty and vulnerability. EFT has been found to be successful with about 75% of couples.
(303) 900-5098 View (303) 900-5098
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Abbott, Psychologist in 80302, CO
Dr. Jennifer Abbott
Psychologist, PhD, LAC, EMDR, DBT
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Hope is not something that everyone has, but it is something everyone deserves. I work successfully with adolescents and adults to overcome difficult problems including addiction, substance abuse, trauma, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), relationship problems, and overwhelming emotions. Most people suffer from more than one problem at once. My expertise allows me to help people resolve compounding problems though an integrative and effective approach. My passion is working with complex trauma, intense emotions, and addiction. I am committed to helping you feel better, uncover your potential, and achieve meaningful goals.
Hope is not something that everyone has, but it is something everyone deserves. I work successfully with adolescents and adults to overcome difficult problems including addiction, substance abuse, trauma, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), relationship problems, and overwhelming emotions. Most people suffer from more than one problem at once. My expertise allows me to help people resolve compounding problems though an integrative and effective approach. My passion is working with complex trauma, intense emotions, and addiction. I am committed to helping you feel better, uncover your potential, and achieve meaningful goals.
(720) 613-5394 View (720) 613-5394
Photo of Abigail Lubahn Somatic Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Abigail Lubahn Somatic Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
The somatic/ dance movement therapy approach is a powerful means through which to process trauma, addiction to substances and/or sex, childhood trauma, impulse behaviors, self-harming behaviors, and eating disorders.
I believe the therapeutic relationship serves as a catalyst for understanding where we come from, and how our survival strategies and coping skills have benefitted us in the past, while also shining a light on which ones may be due for an upgrade. With a witness, and using principles of somatic therapy we can begin to excavate the limiting beliefs taking up valuable real estate in our psyche and put in motion an upshift of our self-concept. The therapeutic container acts as a vessel in which to recontextualize who we have been, who we are now and who we want to become.
The somatic/ dance movement therapy approach is a powerful means through which to process trauma, addiction to substances and/or sex, childhood trauma, impulse behaviors, self-harming behaviors, and eating disorders.
I believe the therapeutic relationship serves as a catalyst for understanding where we come from, and how our survival strategies and coping skills have benefitted us in the past, while also shining a light on which ones may be due for an upgrade. With a witness, and using principles of somatic therapy we can begin to excavate the limiting beliefs taking up valuable real estate in our psyche and put in motion an upshift of our self-concept. The therapeutic container acts as a vessel in which to recontextualize who we have been, who we are now and who we want to become.
(720) 743-5303 View (720) 743-5303
Photo of Aaron Galloway, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Aaron Galloway
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, EMDR-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
I specialize in treating people experiencing relational challenges, life transitions, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and substance use issues. The healing journey is not a one-size-fits-all experience, so I draw on my training in EMDR, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, Gestalt therapy, attachment therapy, somatic therapy, wilderness therapy, Polyvagal theory, and addictions counseling to best meet you where you are in your process. Let's work together to co-create an individualized plan for you.
I specialize in treating people experiencing relational challenges, life transitions, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and substance use issues. The healing journey is not a one-size-fits-all experience, so I draw on my training in EMDR, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, Gestalt therapy, attachment therapy, somatic therapy, wilderness therapy, Polyvagal theory, and addictions counseling to best meet you where you are in your process. Let's work together to co-create an individualized plan for you.
(720) 664-5216 View (720) 664-5216
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Abbott, Psychologist in 80302, CO
Dr. Jennifer Abbott
Psychologist, PhD, LAC, EMDR, DBT
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Hope is not something that everyone has, but it is something everyone deserves. I work successfully with adolescents and adults to overcome difficult problems including addiction, substance abuse, trauma, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), relationship problems, and overwhelming emotions. My expertise in both psychotherapy and addictions counseling allows me to help people resolve compounding problems though an integrative and effective approach. My passion is working with complex trauma, extremely intense emotions, and addiction. I am committed to helping you feel better, uncover your potential, and achieve meaningful goals.
Hope is not something that everyone has, but it is something everyone deserves. I work successfully with adolescents and adults to overcome difficult problems including addiction, substance abuse, trauma, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), relationship problems, and overwhelming emotions. My expertise in both psychotherapy and addictions counseling allows me to help people resolve compounding problems though an integrative and effective approach. My passion is working with complex trauma, extremely intense emotions, and addiction. I am committed to helping you feel better, uncover your potential, and achieve meaningful goals.
(720) 613-5495 View (720) 613-5495
Photo of Lisa Shanken in 80302, CO
Lisa Shanken
AADP, RYT, CPT, YTT
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Do you struggle to manage your day-to-day activities and “executive functioning” (your ability to focus, overcome distractions, stay organized, and feel a sense of accomplishment by achieving your goals)? Do you have learning differences (ADHD/ADD, non-verbal learning disorders (NVLD), processing disorders) that negatively impact your mental health struggles like addiction, anxiety, depression, and mood/personality disorders? I can empower you to master healthy habits and life skills so you can overcome these challenges, regain your self-confidence, accomplish your day-to-day goals, and set your life on a happier and healthier track
Do you struggle to manage your day-to-day activities and “executive functioning” (your ability to focus, overcome distractions, stay organized, and feel a sense of accomplishment by achieving your goals)? Do you have learning differences (ADHD/ADD, non-verbal learning disorders (NVLD), processing disorders) that negatively impact your mental health struggles like addiction, anxiety, depression, and mood/personality disorders? I can empower you to master healthy habits and life skills so you can overcome these challenges, regain your self-confidence, accomplish your day-to-day goals, and set your life on a happier and healthier track
(720) 637-2588 View (720) 637-2588
Photo of thecounSOULer, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
thecounSOULer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
I work in this field with the struggles and afflictions mentioned above 'cause I have been in the grips of addiction, bereavement and hopelessness.
A seed grows with no sound, but a tree falls with huge noise. Destruction has noise, but creation is quiet. This is the power of silence. Grow silently. - Confucius... To grow silently means to go within, to be aware, to have courage in the face of fear. If you're struggling with addiction, trauma, grief, anxiety/depression, boundaries and learning to be assertive or trying to find your meaning and purpose in world filled with noise. Then perhaps I can be of help.
I work in this field with the struggles and afflictions mentioned above 'cause I have been in the grips of addiction, bereavement and hopelessness.
A seed grows with no sound, but a tree falls with huge noise. Destruction has noise, but creation is quiet. This is the power of silence. Grow silently. - Confucius... To grow silently means to go within, to be aware, to have courage in the face of fear. If you're struggling with addiction, trauma, grief, anxiety/depression, boundaries and learning to be assertive or trying to find your meaning and purpose in world filled with noise. Then perhaps I can be of help.
(720) 792-6343 View (720) 792-6343
Photo of Joseph A Toscano, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in 80302, CO
Joseph A Toscano
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, CACIII, NBCC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
With over four decades of experience as an Addiction Specialist, Joseph brings a depth of clinical knowledge and perspective to his counseling practice that is rare. After 15 years of agency work, Joseph went into private practice in 1997. He obtained National Certification as a mental health professional and now combines his expertise with addictive processes with a holistic understanding of how these processes occur within a bigger milieu - often defined through unresolved grief and trauma. He has come to believe, that as human beings, we all have addictive tendencies that can connect us to deeper aspirations and dreams.
With over four decades of experience as an Addiction Specialist, Joseph brings a depth of clinical knowledge and perspective to his counseling practice that is rare. After 15 years of agency work, Joseph went into private practice in 1997. He obtained National Certification as a mental health professional and now combines his expertise with addictive processes with a holistic understanding of how these processes occur within a bigger milieu - often defined through unresolved grief and trauma. He has come to believe, that as human beings, we all have addictive tendencies that can connect us to deeper aspirations and dreams.
(303) 900-7259 View (303) 900-7259
Photo of Erica Brann, LCSW, Psychotherapy, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80302, CO
Erica Brann, LCSW, Psychotherapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
The desire to be connected to others is innate, and yet we sometimes find ourselves alone, hopeless, sad, scared, and angry. I believe that being connected to ourselves and others is part of the human experience, and recovery from symptoms that interrupt our ability to live our lives to the fullest is possible. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals who struggle with issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma and addiction. I believe change and insight are possible, and freedom from pain and suffering is attainable.
The desire to be connected to others is innate, and yet we sometimes find ourselves alone, hopeless, sad, scared, and angry. I believe that being connected to ourselves and others is part of the human experience, and recovery from symptoms that interrupt our ability to live our lives to the fullest is possible. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals who struggle with issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma and addiction. I believe change and insight are possible, and freedom from pain and suffering is attainable.
(720) 782-1142 View (720) 782-1142
Photo of Kris Isaacs, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Kris Isaacs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CACII
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 20 years experience working with adolescents and adults. My areas of focus are with anxiety, depression, substance abuse/addictions, life transitions, ADD/ADHD and low motivation/self-esteem. I support individuals in working through their barriers, creating healthy coping skills, helping to establish a true sense of self, connection within relationships and within ones community. In addition, I am a trained Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapist and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapist (KAP) who offers preparation and integration support for psychedelic use.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 20 years experience working with adolescents and adults. My areas of focus are with anxiety, depression, substance abuse/addictions, life transitions, ADD/ADHD and low motivation/self-esteem. I support individuals in working through their barriers, creating healthy coping skills, helping to establish a true sense of self, connection within relationships and within ones community. In addition, I am a trained Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapist and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapist (KAP) who offers preparation and integration support for psychedelic use.
(303) 586-3466 View (303) 586-3466
Photo of ARISE® Network, Registered Psychotherapist in 80302, CO
ARISE® Network
Registered Psychotherapist, MD, CAI, CIP, CFLE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
We specialize in helping individuals and families with long-term healing and recovery from addiction, behavioral compulsions, mental health challenges, and other acute, chronic and relapsing illnesses. We practice Invitational Intervention®, ARISE® Continuing Care with Intervention, which is Evidence-Based and proven to be effective. We match the Certified ARISE® Interventionists to the specific needs of the client and the family and are well connected to the best treatment centers across the country. We offer consultation, case management, safe transportation across transitions (geographic, family relationships and emotional), coaching, companionship (sober and mental health companions), placement and treatment advice and intervention.
We specialize in helping individuals and families with long-term healing and recovery from addiction, behavioral compulsions, mental health challenges, and other acute, chronic and relapsing illnesses. We practice Invitational Intervention®, ARISE® Continuing Care with Intervention, which is Evidence-Based and proven to be effective. We match the Certified ARISE® Interventionists to the specific needs of the client and the family and are well connected to the best treatment centers across the country. We offer consultation, case management, safe transportation across transitions (geographic, family relationships and emotional), coaching, companionship (sober and mental health companions), placement and treatment advice and intervention.
(720) 549-9825 View (720) 549-9825
Photo of Dan Ronken, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Dan Ronken
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Are you looking to deepen your recovery? Tired of the one-size-fits-all approach? My practice offers ketamine-assisted psychotherapy as well as psychotherapy for addiction recovery. You’ve likely been through a lot and might be having a tough time identifying what’s getting in the way of making it through these tough times. Or maybe you have an idea of what’s happening and just unsure how to proceed. Ketamine can act as a catalyst for deep healing. Individual differences matter and together we can explore ideas and implement solutions for healing based on the context of your life situation.
Are you looking to deepen your recovery? Tired of the one-size-fits-all approach? My practice offers ketamine-assisted psychotherapy as well as psychotherapy for addiction recovery. You’ve likely been through a lot and might be having a tough time identifying what’s getting in the way of making it through these tough times. Or maybe you have an idea of what’s happening and just unsure how to proceed. Ketamine can act as a catalyst for deep healing. Individual differences matter and together we can explore ideas and implement solutions for healing based on the context of your life situation.
(720) 897-0143 View (720) 897-0143
Photo of Jeffrey M Price, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Jeffrey M Price
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
Individual responsibility is required if the increasingly painful effects of addiction are to be arrested, not just tolerated.
After working with adults for over twenty-five years in the fields of addictions and therapy, I’ve learned that you and I are a lot alike: we want to feel good and not feel pain; we want to be able to breathe easier and not feel troubled. Our work will involve exploring habitual patterns and looking at obstacles that have obscured the answers to your questions; we will work patiently, diligently, creatively and with humor to become more aware of them. We will work to mindfully loosen the grip of those obstacles, bit by bit, while exploring alternatives and options.
Individual responsibility is required if the increasingly painful effects of addiction are to be arrested, not just tolerated.
After working with adults for over twenty-five years in the fields of addictions and therapy, I’ve learned that you and I are a lot alike: we want to feel good and not feel pain; we want to be able to breathe easier and not feel troubled. Our work will involve exploring habitual patterns and looking at obstacles that have obscured the answers to your questions; we will work patiently, diligently, creatively and with humor to become more aware of them. We will work to mindfully loosen the grip of those obstacles, bit by bit, while exploring alternatives and options.
(303) 747-6102 View (303) 747-6102
Photo of Jill Krush, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Jill Krush
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CACIII, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
I have enjoyed working with teens , adults and families for over 15 years. I bring 31 years of personal recovery from various substance and process addictions and combine both personal and professional experiences to the counseling relationship. I work with teens, adults and families dealing with codependency, substance use issues, addiction, stress, anxiety and trauma. My approach helps with discovering the best methods for you to learn how to cope with life challenges in a way that won't harm you or the people you love. If you are struggling to find your way, I encourage you to call for a free phone consultation.
I have enjoyed working with teens , adults and families for over 15 years. I bring 31 years of personal recovery from various substance and process addictions and combine both personal and professional experiences to the counseling relationship. I work with teens, adults and families dealing with codependency, substance use issues, addiction, stress, anxiety and trauma. My approach helps with discovering the best methods for you to learn how to cope with life challenges in a way that won't harm you or the people you love. If you are struggling to find your way, I encourage you to call for a free phone consultation.
(605) 644-7068 View (605) 644-7068
Photo of Maggie Stevenson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80302, CO
Maggie Stevenson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MHP, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
During times of significant transition or stress, such as a divorce, loss of a loved one, a career change, or relational challenges, therapy can be very useful. Sometimes, individuals seek out therapy as a way to develop strategies for personal growth, life skills, and or improved interpersonal communication. Other times, my clients choose to work on a long-standing mental health struggle such as depression, anxiety, addiction, or grief and loss. Therapy is right for anyone who has a desire to learn more about themselves and make positive changes in their wellness, relationships, or daily life.
During times of significant transition or stress, such as a divorce, loss of a loved one, a career change, or relational challenges, therapy can be very useful. Sometimes, individuals seek out therapy as a way to develop strategies for personal growth, life skills, and or improved interpersonal communication. Other times, my clients choose to work on a long-standing mental health struggle such as depression, anxiety, addiction, or grief and loss. Therapy is right for anyone who has a desire to learn more about themselves and make positive changes in their wellness, relationships, or daily life.
(720) 679-1150 View (720) 679-1150
Photo of Kristina Normann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80302, CO
Kristina Normann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
I am a licensed clinical social worker and addictions counselor who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, life transition issues, trauma, and addiction.
Healing takes place through compassion, trust, and acceptance. I strive to help clients recognize their strengths in difficult times and promote healing from past hardships, stress, and addiction issues. I use a holistic approach, with emphasis on the mind-body connection. Several clients have told me that they appreciate my compassionate, non-judgmental and collaborative approach.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and addictions counselor who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, life transition issues, trauma, and addiction.
Healing takes place through compassion, trust, and acceptance. I strive to help clients recognize their strengths in difficult times and promote healing from past hardships, stress, and addiction issues. I use a holistic approach, with emphasis on the mind-body connection. Several clients have told me that they appreciate my compassionate, non-judgmental and collaborative approach.
(720) 897-5246 View (720) 897-5246
Photo of Blair Thurston Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Blair Thurston Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I am a great match for clients who want to transcend old patterns, build more self-trust, and experience a more spacious and peaceful inner world. I believe that all people have an intrinsic desire to move towards connection, health, and aliveness and I have a knack for helping people access these qualities within themselves. I have a lot of experience in the world of addiction and family systems, specifically working with clients who have a loved one dealing with an addiction. I specialize in treating codependency, compassionate boundary setting, and helping you find your voice.
As a therapist, I am a great match for clients who want to transcend old patterns, build more self-trust, and experience a more spacious and peaceful inner world. I believe that all people have an intrinsic desire to move towards connection, health, and aliveness and I have a knack for helping people access these qualities within themselves. I have a lot of experience in the world of addiction and family systems, specifically working with clients who have a loved one dealing with an addiction. I specialize in treating codependency, compassionate boundary setting, and helping you find your voice.
(720) 619-8582 View (720) 619-8582
Photo of D.J. Bishop, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
D.J. Bishop
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC , LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed by anxiety? Are you struggling with feelings of panic? As a licensed professional counselor and licensed addiction counselor, I specialize in providing targeted therapy to help you overcome anxiety and regain control over your life. I understand the challenges that come with anxiety, and I am here to guide you through the release and recovery process. Together, we'll work towards moving out of overwhelm and isolation and into integration and connection. This will allow you to find a sense of calm and peace.
Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed by anxiety? Are you struggling with feelings of panic? As a licensed professional counselor and licensed addiction counselor, I specialize in providing targeted therapy to help you overcome anxiety and regain control over your life. I understand the challenges that come with anxiety, and I am here to guide you through the release and recovery process. Together, we'll work towards moving out of overwhelm and isolation and into integration and connection. This will allow you to find a sense of calm and peace.
(303) 529-8604 View (303) 529-8604
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.