Addiction Therapists in 93309

Photo of Dusty McLeod, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93309, CA
Dusty McLeod
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Still, my specialties include all forms of addiction, impulsive behaviors, hoarding behaviors, occupational stress, grief, anxiety, panic, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
My therapeutic approach is nonjudgmental and client-centered. I want my clients to feel respected and supported, and by using an integrative method of various strategies and treatment modalities, I help you further develop your sense of choice and empowerment to improve your current situation and overall well-being.
Still, my specialties include all forms of addiction, impulsive behaviors, hoarding behaviors, occupational stress, grief, anxiety, panic, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
My therapeutic approach is nonjudgmental and client-centered. I want my clients to feel respected and supported, and by using an integrative method of various strategies and treatment modalities, I help you further develop your sense of choice and empowerment to improve your current situation and overall well-being.
(661) 473-2303 View (661) 473-2303
Photo of Kara Meeks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93309, CA
Kara Meeks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Close your eyes, take a deep breath in and exhale. What comes to mind...broken relationships? Feelings of shame and guilt? Depression or anxiety? Intrusive memories? Addiction? Lack of goals or motivation? Welcome to a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your life experiences, determine how they helped form who you are today, and gain insight to heal core issues. A space to discover your authentic self, living genuinely and with purpose. I would be honored to support you on your journey to healing past wounds and transforming those experiences into empowerment and authenticity.
Close your eyes, take a deep breath in and exhale. What comes to mind...broken relationships? Feelings of shame and guilt? Depression or anxiety? Intrusive memories? Addiction? Lack of goals or motivation? Welcome to a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your life experiences, determine how they helped form who you are today, and gain insight to heal core issues. A space to discover your authentic self, living genuinely and with purpose. I would be honored to support you on your journey to healing past wounds and transforming those experiences into empowerment and authenticity.
(661) 463-3986 View (661) 463-3986
Photo of Tina Healy, Psychologist in 93309, CA
Tina Healy
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Healy has treated individuals suffering from acute crises, chronic mental illness, and addiction, as well as those who are victims of violent crime.
Dr. Healy recognizes the value of psychological assessment, as an essential application in clarifying psychological diagnoses and informing mental health treatment. Dr. Healy enjoys working with individuals of all ages, including children, teenagers, and adults. She has specific training in the area of autism assessment, as well as years of experience evaluating older adults presenting with neurocognitive disorders (dementia). Dr. Healy finds the field of neuropsychological assessment particularly rewarding, as she is able to assist patients in the diagnostic process so they can focus their time and energy on treatment and recovery.
Healy has treated individuals suffering from acute crises, chronic mental illness, and addiction, as well as those who are victims of violent crime.
Dr. Healy recognizes the value of psychological assessment, as an essential application in clarifying psychological diagnoses and informing mental health treatment. Dr. Healy enjoys working with individuals of all ages, including children, teenagers, and adults. She has specific training in the area of autism assessment, as well as years of experience evaluating older adults presenting with neurocognitive disorders (dementia). Dr. Healy finds the field of neuropsychological assessment particularly rewarding, as she is able to assist patients in the diagnostic process so they can focus their time and energy on treatment and recovery.
(661) 443-6884 x1 View (661) 443-6884 x1
Photo of Kendall Wood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93309, CA
Kendall Wood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
The bulk of my experience stems from work with adolescents (including pregnant and parenting teens), adults, and those struggling with substance use disorders.
Accepting new patients! Therapy is a wonderful opportunity for individuals to gain a new life perspective, work through challenges, and foster desired change. My job is to unite with you to help clarify your needs and enhance your skills to better tackle life’s challenges. I utilize an integration of evidenced based practices and psychodynamic principles, with a strong emphasis on mindfulness and resilience. Whether a life adjustment or major crisis, the therapeutic process will enhance your ability to move towards greater self-awareness, acceptance and happiness.
The bulk of my experience stems from work with adolescents (including pregnant and parenting teens), adults, and those struggling with substance use disorders.
Accepting new patients! Therapy is a wonderful opportunity for individuals to gain a new life perspective, work through challenges, and foster desired change. My job is to unite with you to help clarify your needs and enhance your skills to better tackle life’s challenges. I utilize an integration of evidenced based practices and psychodynamic principles, with a strong emphasis on mindfulness and resilience. Whether a life adjustment or major crisis, the therapeutic process will enhance your ability to move towards greater self-awareness, acceptance and happiness.
(661) 490-9336 View (661) 490-9336
Photo of Lowell Lueck, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93309, CA
Lowell Lueck
Marriage & Family Therapist, ThD, LMFT, BCPCC, PPSC
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
I have been counseling for 36+ years. I am a published author of the book Maturation Through Marriage and The Enticement of Divorce and am available for seminars in churches and group organizations. I have 34 years teaching experience with at risk high school students. Extensive internship training with alcohol and substance dependent patients equips me to work with clientele with these issues. I am an ordained minister with 3 years of full time Christian service which equips me for pastoral counseling. Having personally experienced the pain of divorce, I can empathize with spouses who are experiencing marital discord.
I have been counseling for 36+ years. I am a published author of the book Maturation Through Marriage and The Enticement of Divorce and am available for seminars in churches and group organizations. I have 34 years teaching experience with at risk high school students. Extensive internship training with alcohol and substance dependent patients equips me to work with clientele with these issues. I am an ordained minister with 3 years of full time Christian service which equips me for pastoral counseling. Having personally experienced the pain of divorce, I can empathize with spouses who are experiencing marital discord.
(661) 903-8972 View (661) 903-8972
Photo of Angeli Fernandez, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93309, CA
Angeli Fernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
I have more than 12 years of experience in mental health issues and substance abuse treatment in the form of individual, group, couples, and family therapy in the inpatient and outpatient setting.
It takes a lot of courage to ask for help, and it is an honor to be trusted with your healing journey. I provide a compassionate and supportive therapeutic environment for my clients. Together, we will work on identifying what is no longer serving you, develop goals and a plan that work for you to make changes to reduce, and even eliminate, these feelings and behaviors causing pain and distress in your life today. My style is warm, open, engaging, occasionally humorous, and at all times respectful. My approach to counseling is caring, supportive, and genuine.
I have more than 12 years of experience in mental health issues and substance abuse treatment in the form of individual, group, couples, and family therapy in the inpatient and outpatient setting.
It takes a lot of courage to ask for help, and it is an honor to be trusted with your healing journey. I provide a compassionate and supportive therapeutic environment for my clients. Together, we will work on identifying what is no longer serving you, develop goals and a plan that work for you to make changes to reduce, and even eliminate, these feelings and behaviors causing pain and distress in your life today. My style is warm, open, engaging, occasionally humorous, and at all times respectful. My approach to counseling is caring, supportive, and genuine.
(661) 215-8242 View (661) 215-8242
Photo of John R Navejas, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 93309, CA
John R Navejas
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
John Navejas is registered as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist providing services in both substance abuse and mental health treatment modalities. John’s career experience began while volunteering with the Homeless Collaborative. John has worked with many populations including adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, substance abuse, anger, relationship issues, and identifying/controlling emotions and thoughts. He has led groups such as Anger Replacement Training, Strengthening Families, CBT interventions for substance abuse and created the first trauma informed yoga group at a juvenile detention facility.
John Navejas is registered as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist providing services in both substance abuse and mental health treatment modalities. John’s career experience began while volunteering with the Homeless Collaborative. John has worked with many populations including adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, substance abuse, anger, relationship issues, and identifying/controlling emotions and thoughts. He has led groups such as Anger Replacement Training, Strengthening Families, CBT interventions for substance abuse and created the first trauma informed yoga group at a juvenile detention facility.
(661) 233-9744 View (661) 233-9744
Photo of Sanjeshni Sen, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93309, CA
Sanjeshni Sen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
My name is Sanjeshni Sen. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 105067). I utilize a person centered/humanistic approach to therapy. My areas of practice include depression, anxiety, grief, stage of life transitions, interpersonal relationships/conflicts, PTSD, women's issues, coping skills, and addiction/ relapse prevention. I have worked with individuals from varies paths of life. This includes working with individuals with mood disorders, comorbidity, life transitions, self-esteem, family conflict, peer/ romantic relationships, grief, perinatal (pregnancy, postpartum), LGBTQ+ and racial identity.
My name is Sanjeshni Sen. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 105067). I utilize a person centered/humanistic approach to therapy. My areas of practice include depression, anxiety, grief, stage of life transitions, interpersonal relationships/conflicts, PTSD, women's issues, coping skills, and addiction/ relapse prevention. I have worked with individuals from varies paths of life. This includes working with individuals with mood disorders, comorbidity, life transitions, self-esteem, family conflict, peer/ romantic relationships, grief, perinatal (pregnancy, postpartum), LGBTQ+ and racial identity.
(661) 463-9826 View (661) 463-9826
Photo of Christine Perry, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93309, CA
Christine Perry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
Additionally, I have experience working with those in crisis (SI, HI, self-harm), eating disorders, mood disorders, relational issues, maladaptive coping skills, and addiction.
Telehealth Only at this time! Hello! My name is Christine Perry and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe treatment should be as unique as each individual, therefor my approach is very client/person centered and strength based. This gives us the opportunity to utilize your needs to create a space in which you can heal and grow and build hope. Throughout my clinical experience, I’ve utilized a variety of techniques that are based in both interpersonal and person centered, for me this means that we work from the perspective that each individual has the answers they need.
Additionally, I have experience working with those in crisis (SI, HI, self-harm), eating disorders, mood disorders, relational issues, maladaptive coping skills, and addiction.
Telehealth Only at this time! Hello! My name is Christine Perry and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe treatment should be as unique as each individual, therefor my approach is very client/person centered and strength based. This gives us the opportunity to utilize your needs to create a space in which you can heal and grow and build hope. Throughout my clinical experience, I’ve utilized a variety of techniques that are based in both interpersonal and person centered, for me this means that we work from the perspective that each individual has the answers they need.
(661) 485-4063 View (661) 485-4063
Photo of Caitlyn Fournier, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93309, CA
Caitlyn Fournier
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
My name is Cait Fournier, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with individuals across California via telehealth. I work with individuals and specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use and co-occurring disorders, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy to manage through the goods and bads of daily life. I enjoy working with adults of all ages, from young adults to seniors. Mental health is a life long condition, just like our physical health, and at various times in our lives, we need support for different issues.
My name is Cait Fournier, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with individuals across California via telehealth. I work with individuals and specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use and co-occurring disorders, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy to manage through the goods and bads of daily life. I enjoy working with adults of all ages, from young adults to seniors. Mental health is a life long condition, just like our physical health, and at various times in our lives, we need support for different issues.
(626) 900-0876 View (626) 900-0876
Photo of Katie Ford, Licensed Professional Counselor in 93309, CA
Katie Ford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Over the years I've treated anxiety, depression, marital conflict, grief, betrayal issues, trauma and addiction.
I am a Pacific Source Health Plan provider as well as an OHP provider for Central Oregon clients with an office in Bend Oregon. I apologize that I am not a provider for the greater Portland area at this time. I am licensed in Oregon and California and available online for clients in both states for Counseling support. I offer flexible daytime, evening and weekend appointments. I've had the great pleasure of supporting wounded hearts since 1997.
Over the years I've treated anxiety, depression, marital conflict, grief, betrayal issues, trauma and addiction.
I am a Pacific Source Health Plan provider as well as an OHP provider for Central Oregon clients with an office in Bend Oregon. I apologize that I am not a provider for the greater Portland area at this time. I am licensed in Oregon and California and available online for clients in both states for Counseling support. I offer flexible daytime, evening and weekend appointments. I've had the great pleasure of supporting wounded hearts since 1997.
(541) 287-7224 View (541) 287-7224
Photo of Julia May, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93309, CA
Julia May
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
I specialize in treating young adults and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, sex and love addiction, codependency and mood disorders.
Hello, I'm Julia May, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Los Angeles and working with clients statewide via telehealth. My focus is to help young adults and adults navigate through challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and mood disorders. I utilize a variety of approaches and have specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and art therapy. I strive to empower my clients towards personal growth and healing.
I specialize in treating young adults and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, sex and love addiction, codependency and mood disorders.
Hello, I'm Julia May, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Los Angeles and working with clients statewide via telehealth. My focus is to help young adults and adults navigate through challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and mood disorders. I utilize a variety of approaches and have specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and art therapy. I strive to empower my clients towards personal growth and healing.
(562) 580-4996 View (562) 580-4996
Photo of Denny Ray Moss, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93309, CA
Denny Ray Moss
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, CBIS, CHT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
Congratulations on taking the first step towards healing! I believe that our primary purpose in life is to strive to be the best version of ourselves that we can possibly be - regardless of our starting point. But finding our path cannot happen without taking the courageous first steps of self-examination and exploration. I provide individual and family therapy, as well as marriage and couples counseling, specializing in conflict management and treating clients with chemical dependency and other addictive patterns of behavior. People experiencing problems with stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss and other life struggles also seek my help.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards healing! I believe that our primary purpose in life is to strive to be the best version of ourselves that we can possibly be - regardless of our starting point. But finding our path cannot happen without taking the courageous first steps of self-examination and exploration. I provide individual and family therapy, as well as marriage and couples counseling, specializing in conflict management and treating clients with chemical dependency and other addictive patterns of behavior. People experiencing problems with stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss and other life struggles also seek my help.
(661) 384-6362 View (661) 384-6362
Photo of Dr. Lauture Massac, Ph.D., Psychologist in 93309, CA
Dr. Lauture Massac, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
Since each client is unique, my therapy approach is designed just for you and your specific needs. Research has shown a correlation between Mental Health and Physical Health, so an approach addressing both could lead to the ultimate therapeutic results. A holistic approach will best serve you in dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, and emotional relationship issues. This is what I specifically do.
Since each client is unique, my therapy approach is designed just for you and your specific needs. Research has shown a correlation between Mental Health and Physical Health, so an approach addressing both could lead to the ultimate therapeutic results. A holistic approach will best serve you in dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, and emotional relationship issues. This is what I specifically do.
View
Photo of Genevieve M. Martinez, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93309, CA
Genevieve M. Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Anger. Guilt. Resentment. These are the common themes we all struggle with, today. Sadness is all too real when we hurt, and when we do not cope well, or do not know how to cope with our anger, guilt, and/or resentment, we can become depressed. What you will see, is a vicious cycle; a depressed person then becomes angry, and resentful, and can start to feel guilt. We are all able and capable of making better decisions for ourselves and for our loved ones. There is no shame in asking for help...only regret in never trying. I can help you.
Anger. Guilt. Resentment. These are the common themes we all struggle with, today. Sadness is all too real when we hurt, and when we do not cope well, or do not know how to cope with our anger, guilt, and/or resentment, we can become depressed. What you will see, is a vicious cycle; a depressed person then becomes angry, and resentful, and can start to feel guilt. We are all able and capable of making better decisions for ourselves and for our loved ones. There is no shame in asking for help...only regret in never trying. I can help you.
(661) 578-5952 View (661) 578-5952
Photo of Randy Cruz, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93309, CA
Randy Cruz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Hello, i'm Randy. Despite being a therapist, I believe that no matter how many years of work experience a therapist has, and no matter how many credentials/degrees one has, all of that goes out the window if they don't have the ability to click and level with their clients. Initiating therapy services may feel like a leap of faith; as one would have to initiate a process in which they will be meeting with a therapist who is a complete stranger to them in the beginning. So congratulations on taking the first step for seeking treatment!
Hello, i'm Randy. Despite being a therapist, I believe that no matter how many years of work experience a therapist has, and no matter how many credentials/degrees one has, all of that goes out the window if they don't have the ability to click and level with their clients. Initiating therapy services may feel like a leap of faith; as one would have to initiate a process in which they will be meeting with a therapist who is a complete stranger to them in the beginning. So congratulations on taking the first step for seeking treatment!
(661) 760-2889 View (661) 760-2889
Photo of Kingdom Community Ministries, Pastoral Counselor in 93309, CA
Kingdom Community Ministries
Pastoral Counselor, DMin
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Michael knows first-hand the trials of life-when he was just two years old, his father died suddenly leaving him, his mother and seven older siblings in a state of shock and horror. As a means of coping, Michael's mother turned to alcohol, and for fifteen years she attempted to drown her sorrows. But God is so much bigger than our circumstances! For more than two and a half decades, through Christ, Michael has lived life as an over-comer to the crippling effects of sin and guilt.
Michael knows first-hand the trials of life-when he was just two years old, his father died suddenly leaving him, his mother and seven older siblings in a state of shock and horror. As a means of coping, Michael's mother turned to alcohol, and for fifteen years she attempted to drown her sorrows. But God is so much bigger than our circumstances! For more than two and a half decades, through Christ, Michael has lived life as an over-comer to the crippling effects of sin and guilt.
(661) 441-3263 x302 View (661) 441-3263 x302
Photo of CeCe Rubalcava, Pastoral Counselor in 93309, CA
CeCe Rubalcava
Pastoral Counselor, ThD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, have problems in relationships, or just feel stuck, contact me. I take an integrated approach with my clients; I believe we are trichotomous beings -- mind, body, and spirit, so I work to integrate all three in my treatment plans. As a Christian counselor, I use the Bible as the basis for my therapy so you will get sound, Scripturally-rooted counseling together with scientifically proven psychological approaches that are in-line with what the Bible says.
If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, have problems in relationships, or just feel stuck, contact me. I take an integrated approach with my clients; I believe we are trichotomous beings -- mind, body, and spirit, so I work to integrate all three in my treatment plans. As a Christian counselor, I use the Bible as the basis for my therapy so you will get sound, Scripturally-rooted counseling together with scientifically proven psychological approaches that are in-line with what the Bible says.
(661) 443-5367 View (661) 443-5367
Photo of Dr. Jeffrey W Cheney, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93309, CA
Dr. Jeffrey W Cheney
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
You're hurt and angry and thinking, 'Why do we argue about the same things over and over again I am so tired of fighting! What happened to the way we used to be?' I know you're frustrated. Couples tell me how lonely they feel. You and your partner can be happy again, you can learn to turn towards eachother, reconnect emotionally, and create a more caring and fulfilling relationship. For more than 20 years I've worked with couples and families helping them find a better way to live and love and work together.
You're hurt and angry and thinking, 'Why do we argue about the same things over and over again I am so tired of fighting! What happened to the way we used to be?' I know you're frustrated. Couples tell me how lonely they feel. You and your partner can be happy again, you can learn to turn towards eachother, reconnect emotionally, and create a more caring and fulfilling relationship. For more than 20 years I've worked with couples and families helping them find a better way to live and love and work together.
(661) 731-3925 View (661) 731-3925
Photo of James Earl Holland Jr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93309, CA
James Earl Holland Jr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I SEE YOU! YES YOU! Great job on taking your first step! Have you ever felt anger, sadness, anxiety, been through trauma, suffered depression, addicted to something, annoyed with people or, just stuck in your everyday life? Well it’s time for you! Life throws us many obstacles and challenges that we overcome. We have all made mistakes, struggled with life and wondered if we made the right decisions. Sometimes we need advice, an ear to listen or just someone to tell us “Great Job”! I am here to work with you on whatever goal/issue that you want to focus on. I am a firm believer that we are the doctors of our own mind, body and soul.
I SEE YOU! YES YOU! Great job on taking your first step! Have you ever felt anger, sadness, anxiety, been through trauma, suffered depression, addicted to something, annoyed with people or, just stuck in your everyday life? Well it’s time for you! Life throws us many obstacles and challenges that we overcome. We have all made mistakes, struggled with life and wondered if we made the right decisions. Sometimes we need advice, an ear to listen or just someone to tell us “Great Job”! I am here to work with you on whatever goal/issue that you want to focus on. I am a firm believer that we are the doctors of our own mind, body and soul.
(661) 459-5828 View (661) 459-5828

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.