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 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
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 Gardiner Turner, Counselor in 80302, CO
Gardiner Turner
Counselor, BA, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
The passion for the work that I do comes from my deep conviction that everyone can benefit from, and in fact deserves, a safe space to be truly heard, seen, and understood. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, and have experience/ training in supporting clients struggling with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, substance use, grief, shame, trauma/PTSD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis. I do not ascribe to a one size fits all model of therapy and believe every client to be unique both in terms of there personal goals for therapy and the best way to help them reach these goals
The passion for the work that I do comes from my deep conviction that everyone can benefit from, and in fact deserves, a safe space to be truly heard, seen, and understood. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, and have experience/ training in supporting clients struggling with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, substance use, grief, shame, trauma/PTSD, bipolar disorder, and psychosis. I do not ascribe to a one size fits all model of therapy and believe every client to be unique both in terms of there personal goals for therapy and the best way to help them reach these goals
(970) 533-2923 View (970) 533-2923
Photo of Kathleen LeRoy, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Kathleen LeRoy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Specifically, I treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, issues related to spiritual growth, addiction recovery, co-dependency, relationship, and grief and loss.
I offer a dynamic approach to mental health care using holistic, body-mind integrated therapeutic techniques. I believe that often individuals need support to clear what's blocking our natural ability to navigate our lives from our own truth and that each of us have instinctive abilities to heal ourselves. I can partner with you to identify and activate your inner strengths and authentic self. I provide counseling in a safe environment and my clinical focus builds upon clients' existing strengths and aliveness. In office or video counseling available.
Specifically, I treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, issues related to spiritual growth, addiction recovery, co-dependency, relationship, and grief and loss.
I offer a dynamic approach to mental health care using holistic, body-mind integrated therapeutic techniques. I believe that often individuals need support to clear what's blocking our natural ability to navigate our lives from our own truth and that each of us have instinctive abilities to heal ourselves. I can partner with you to identify and activate your inner strengths and authentic self. I provide counseling in a safe environment and my clinical focus builds upon clients' existing strengths and aliveness. In office or video counseling available.
(720) 664-5227 View (720) 664-5227
Photo of Sylvia D Berger, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Sylvia D Berger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
My specialties include anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, addiction, major life stress, major life transitions, shame/guilt, self-esteem, and and self-worth.
Building rapport and having the appropriate fit with your therapist is such a key ingredient. I bring my empathetic, creative, and intuitive approach into the therapeutic relationship. Creating a safe space for my clients to be authentic is my number one goal. My focus is on empowering you to create authentic, meaningful change. I am passionate about supporting you on your journey of self-discovery, helping you in uncovering underlying causes, and guiding you towards the life you're hoping for. Through a process of developing self-awareness, emotional regulation skills, and enhancing strengths within, you'll experience deep healing.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, addiction, major life stress, major life transitions, shame/guilt, self-esteem, and and self-worth.
Building rapport and having the appropriate fit with your therapist is such a key ingredient. I bring my empathetic, creative, and intuitive approach into the therapeutic relationship. Creating a safe space for my clients to be authentic is my number one goal. My focus is on empowering you to create authentic, meaningful change. I am passionate about supporting you on your journey of self-discovery, helping you in uncovering underlying causes, and guiding you towards the life you're hoping for. Through a process of developing self-awareness, emotional regulation skills, and enhancing strengths within, you'll experience deep healing.
(720) 445-8810 View (720) 445-8810
Photo of Blake Helton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80302, CO
Blake Helton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
I have experience in working with couples, addiction, OCD, PTSD and trauma, sobriety management, suicidal clients, incarceration, dissociation, and personality disorders.
Schedule now through my website in my bio! Struggling to process real life? Maybe there is a barrier that is stopping you from your full potential? I strive to provide a person-centered approach to therapy. I believe that you as the individual are the expert in your own life. I aim to help others process their emotions and other difficulties that they may have going on in their life.
I have experience in working with couples, addiction, OCD, PTSD and trauma, sobriety management, suicidal clients, incarceration, dissociation, and personality disorders.
Schedule now through my website in my bio! Struggling to process real life? Maybe there is a barrier that is stopping you from your full potential? I strive to provide a person-centered approach to therapy. I believe that you as the individual are the expert in your own life. I aim to help others process their emotions and other difficulties that they may have going on in their life.
(303) 622-3461 View (303) 622-3461
Photo of Katie O'Keefe, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Katie O'Keefe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
As a therapist I am passionate about what I do. I am here to create transformative and life-changing experiences with you and in your relationships. Therapy will facilitate self-discovery, new awareness and insights, while specific strategies will lead to personal growth and rewiring of the brain and nervous system. You will feel seen and heard and experience the security that is inherent within this confidential relationship. I work with adults dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, substance use, addiction, ADHD, shame, and grief/loss.
As a therapist I am passionate about what I do. I am here to create transformative and life-changing experiences with you and in your relationships. Therapy will facilitate self-discovery, new awareness and insights, while specific strategies will lead to personal growth and rewiring of the brain and nervous system. You will feel seen and heard and experience the security that is inherent within this confidential relationship. I work with adults dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, substance use, addiction, ADHD, shame, and grief/loss.
(720) 764-9342 View (720) 764-9342
Photo of Shanti Finney-Krigel, Mental Health Counselor in 80302, CO
Shanti Finney-Krigel
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CDP, R-DMT, LADC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
Telehealth openings for all of WA and CO! Welcome to the Shanti Wellness Center. I'm Shanti, a compassionate licensed psychotherapist, chemical dependency counselor, dance movement therapist and yoga therapist. I have been a dedicated licensed therapist for over 21 years. With deep compassion and non-judgmental mindful support, I hold a space for growth and healing to occur. This fertile ground allows clients to set reachable goals for positive change. I help clients heal through a wide variety of challenges including trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, relationship challenges, chronic pain, addiction, transitions and more.
Telehealth openings for all of WA and CO! Welcome to the Shanti Wellness Center. I'm Shanti, a compassionate licensed psychotherapist, chemical dependency counselor, dance movement therapist and yoga therapist. I have been a dedicated licensed therapist for over 21 years. With deep compassion and non-judgmental mindful support, I hold a space for growth and healing to occur. This fertile ground allows clients to set reachable goals for positive change. I help clients heal through a wide variety of challenges including trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, relationship challenges, chronic pain, addiction, transitions and more.
(425) 600-7517 View (425) 600-7517
Photo of Jamie Glick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80302, CO
Jamie Glick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
This can lead to challenges including depression, anxiety, addiction, bad habits, unfulfilled relationships, and loneliness.
Its time to put in that work for a successful 2024. Are you struggling with motivation or finding it difficult to accomplish your goals? Have you developed bad habits or feel stuck? I work with people to achieve peak performance. Through my model, the Spire of Performance , I help to people to define the areas of their life they want too see maximum potential and then we develop a plan in 6 different domains. I believe that physical health is closely tied to mental health and incorporate wellness interventions into every treatment plan. I offer yearly mental health check-ups and free phone/video consultation.
This can lead to challenges including depression, anxiety, addiction, bad habits, unfulfilled relationships, and loneliness.
Its time to put in that work for a successful 2024. Are you struggling with motivation or finding it difficult to accomplish your goals? Have you developed bad habits or feel stuck? I work with people to achieve peak performance. Through my model, the Spire of Performance , I help to people to define the areas of their life they want too see maximum potential and then we develop a plan in 6 different domains. I believe that physical health is closely tied to mental health and incorporate wellness interventions into every treatment plan. I offer yearly mental health check-ups and free phone/video consultation.
(720) 734-4661 View (720) 734-4661
Photo of Michael Clifton, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Michael Clifton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
I can help you with struggles like depression, anxiety, trauma, addictions, career counseling, and veterans issues (as one of them). Do you need help leaving a bad situation but you feel stuck? Are you struggling to adjust to leaving a bad situation and need some help connecting with your new life? Have you been feeling overwhelmed and you haven't been able to cope with life? Need someone to walk through hell with you and make sure you don't get distracted from the path out of rock bottom depression?
I can help you with struggles like depression, anxiety, trauma, addictions, career counseling, and veterans issues (as one of them). Do you need help leaving a bad situation but you feel stuck? Are you struggling to adjust to leaving a bad situation and need some help connecting with your new life? Have you been feeling overwhelmed and you haven't been able to cope with life? Need someone to walk through hell with you and make sure you don't get distracted from the path out of rock bottom depression?
(720) 545-1974 View (720) 545-1974
Photo of Colin David Runge, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Colin David Runge
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, MA
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
"I am someone who genuinely cares about my clients and am involved in this work because I want to be there for you. I'd like to congratulate you already on taking the first step in therapy." Colin advocates a well-rounded lifestyle as a professional counselor and in his personal life, and believes that overcoming any life problem requires a lifestyle change. Colin has a wide range of mental health competencies, and uses empirically based - or scientifically proven - methods. Hours are set to most convenience his client's and only a limited number of clients are accepted at one time in order to commit to their progress.
"I am someone who genuinely cares about my clients and am involved in this work because I want to be there for you. I'd like to congratulate you already on taking the first step in therapy." Colin advocates a well-rounded lifestyle as a professional counselor and in his personal life, and believes that overcoming any life problem requires a lifestyle change. Colin has a wide range of mental health competencies, and uses empirically based - or scientifically proven - methods. Hours are set to most convenience his client's and only a limited number of clients are accepted at one time in order to commit to their progress.
(303) 276-3052 View (303) 276-3052
Photo of Julian Royce, Counselor in 80302, CO
Julian Royce
Counselor, MA, LPC, MI
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
I am committed to freeing the blockages in your life, relationships, passions and work. I support individuals & couples using mindfulness, somatic and experiential techniques that access deeper material than is usually accessed through traditional talk therapy alone. I have substantial experience working with anxiety, trauma, grief, depression and relationship issues. It takes true courage to reach out for support but finding the right support is even more important. Because the most important factor in success in therapy is the personal relationship we have with each other, I see this work as a mutual process we co-create together.
I am committed to freeing the blockages in your life, relationships, passions and work. I support individuals & couples using mindfulness, somatic and experiential techniques that access deeper material than is usually accessed through traditional talk therapy alone. I have substantial experience working with anxiety, trauma, grief, depression and relationship issues. It takes true courage to reach out for support but finding the right support is even more important. Because the most important factor in success in therapy is the personal relationship we have with each other, I see this work as a mutual process we co-create together.
(720) 897-0839 View (720) 897-0839
Photo of Crista L. Studer, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Crista L. Studer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RDN, CEDS-C, NCC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), and Certified Eating Disorders Specialist-Consultant (CEDS-C) with the unique ability to combine nutrition and mental health for clients suffering from disordered eating, poor body image, low self-esteem, anxiety/depression, and other mental health disorders. I advocate for my clients to help them become self-sufficient and independent in developing healthy behaviors. I am passionate about helping clients identify their feelings, needs, and wants while learning how to effectively process and express these needs.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), and Certified Eating Disorders Specialist-Consultant (CEDS-C) with the unique ability to combine nutrition and mental health for clients suffering from disordered eating, poor body image, low self-esteem, anxiety/depression, and other mental health disorders. I advocate for my clients to help them become self-sufficient and independent in developing healthy behaviors. I am passionate about helping clients identify their feelings, needs, and wants while learning how to effectively process and express these needs.
(720) 335-5880 View (720) 335-5880
Photo of Core Wellness Counseling , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80302, CO
Core Wellness Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80302
“One of our greatest freedoms is how we react to things.” – Charlie Mackesy. This quote has a personal significance to me because it highlights the human capacity for resilience and the ability to transform difficult experiences into opportunities for personal growth. I'm passionate about assisting individuals who may have difficulty acknowledging their strengths, and empowering them to confront challenges with confidence. In addition to providing support to individuals facing diverse challenges, I take pride in being available as a listening ear to anyone who needs it.
“One of our greatest freedoms is how we react to things.” – Charlie Mackesy. This quote has a personal significance to me because it highlights the human capacity for resilience and the ability to transform difficult experiences into opportunities for personal growth. I'm passionate about assisting individuals who may have difficulty acknowledging their strengths, and empowering them to confront challenges with confidence. In addition to providing support to individuals facing diverse challenges, I take pride in being available as a listening ear to anyone who needs it.
(720) 571-8931 View (720) 571-8931
Photo of Skylyn Webb, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in 80302, CO
Skylyn Webb
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In working with you, my goal is to create the space for you to connect with your own innate wisdom. I will meet you where you are with presence, empathy, and non-judgment. Using mindfulness and somatic techniques we will examine and remain grounded in the present and then work backward to untangle how difficult or traumatic experiences of the past may be keeping you “stuck” in unhealthy thinking or behavioral patterns. I will act as an unwavering guide as you move toward freedom and growth.
In working with you, my goal is to create the space for you to connect with your own innate wisdom. I will meet you where you are with presence, empathy, and non-judgment. Using mindfulness and somatic techniques we will examine and remain grounded in the present and then work backward to untangle how difficult or traumatic experiences of the past may be keeping you “stuck” in unhealthy thinking or behavioral patterns. I will act as an unwavering guide as you move toward freedom and growth.
(720) 753-5298 View (720) 753-5298
Photo of Lydia Van Clief, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Lydia Van Clief
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
I am a dedicated therapist with a passion for helping my clients navigate the complexities of life, find strength within themselves, and overcome the challenges of anxiety, depression and other mental health issues. I believe that everyone possesses the power to become the best version of themself, and my mission in working with you is to support you on becoming this powerful being. I aim to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can openly express your thoughts and feelings. Together, we'll explore the root causes of your anxiety and depression, helping you gain insight into your unique experiences.
I am a dedicated therapist with a passion for helping my clients navigate the complexities of life, find strength within themselves, and overcome the challenges of anxiety, depression and other mental health issues. I believe that everyone possesses the power to become the best version of themself, and my mission in working with you is to support you on becoming this powerful being. I aim to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can openly express your thoughts and feelings. Together, we'll explore the root causes of your anxiety and depression, helping you gain insight into your unique experiences.
(720) 790-3196 View (720) 790-3196
Photo of Matthew Cavanna, Counselor in 80302, CO
Matthew Cavanna
Counselor, BFA, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Are you concerned with aspects of your behavior and want to understand their root causes? Are you and your partner needing guidance to work through challenges in your relationship and improve the quality and depth of your intimacy? Are you wanting to feel more safe and at home in your own skin? I view counseling as a sacred container which supports your innate healing capacity to emerge. Just as a doctor does not “heal” a broken bone, therapy does not heal the wounds of the heart and soul. Instead, we create a safe space together in which your powerful inner healing capacity is supported to emerge.
Are you concerned with aspects of your behavior and want to understand their root causes? Are you and your partner needing guidance to work through challenges in your relationship and improve the quality and depth of your intimacy? Are you wanting to feel more safe and at home in your own skin? I view counseling as a sacred container which supports your innate healing capacity to emerge. Just as a doctor does not “heal” a broken bone, therapy does not heal the wounds of the heart and soul. Instead, we create a safe space together in which your powerful inner healing capacity is supported to emerge.
(720) 571-9318 View (720) 571-9318
Photo of Margot Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80302, CO
Margot Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BA
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302  (Online Only)
Welcome to a safe haven for healing and hope. I am a compassionate therapist specializing in supporting individuals facing life transitions, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Navigating the complexities of life can be challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. I am here to provide a safe and understanding space where we can work together to explore and overcome the obstacles that may be hindering your well-being. I am dedicated to tailoring our sessions to meet your unique needs, offering strategies to manage symptoms, and fostering a path towards lasting relief.
Welcome to a safe haven for healing and hope. I am a compassionate therapist specializing in supporting individuals facing life transitions, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Navigating the complexities of life can be challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. I am here to provide a safe and understanding space where we can work together to explore and overcome the obstacles that may be hindering your well-being. I am dedicated to tailoring our sessions to meet your unique needs, offering strategies to manage symptoms, and fostering a path towards lasting relief.
(720) 650-0429 View (720) 650-0429
Photo of Valerie Lorig, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80302, CO
Valerie Lorig
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Boulder, CO 80302
Welcome! As we work together I will honor your inherent healthiness. If you are experiencing PTSD, trauma, grief, loss, divorce, depression, anxiety, anger, denial, co-dependency, addictions, or need self-care and empowerment, you have choices. I can help you to be brave enough to weather personal storms, tender enough to be vulnerable, resilient enough to succeed, and confident enough to trust your own wisdom. Together we'll take a non-judgmental and honest look at "how and why" you do what you do, in order to inspire positive change. I invite you to explore the possibilities. Individuals and couples. (No insurance for couples)
Welcome! As we work together I will honor your inherent healthiness. If you are experiencing PTSD, trauma, grief, loss, divorce, depression, anxiety, anger, denial, co-dependency, addictions, or need self-care and empowerment, you have choices. I can help you to be brave enough to weather personal storms, tender enough to be vulnerable, resilient enough to succeed, and confident enough to trust your own wisdom. Together we'll take a non-judgmental and honest look at "how and why" you do what you do, in order to inspire positive change. I invite you to explore the possibilities. Individuals and couples. (No insurance for couples)
(303) 578-2949 View (303) 578-2949

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.