Addiction Therapists in 97212

Photo of Sherrilynn Blanton, CSWA, MSW, CADCIII, QMHP
Sherrilynn Blanton
Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA, MSW, CADCIII, QMHP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
I have at least 20 years of experience, knowledge and education around addictions.
As your therapist, I am here to listen, support and work collaboratively with you through your journey as you discover your strengths and develop a sense of hope and motivation to take action to improve your life situation, utilizing the resources within and around you. My experience, education and knowledge has afforded me the opportunity to work with you who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, domestic violence, family conflict, couples counseling, relationship issues, etc.. I will use various treatment models that will help you to reach your desired goals.
I have at least 20 years of experience, knowledge and education around addictions.
As your therapist, I am here to listen, support and work collaboratively with you through your journey as you discover your strengths and develop a sense of hope and motivation to take action to improve your life situation, utilizing the resources within and around you. My experience, education and knowledge has afforded me the opportunity to work with you who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, domestic violence, family conflict, couples counseling, relationship issues, etc.. I will use various treatment models that will help you to reach your desired goals.
(971) 233-3830 View (971) 233-3830
Photo of Jeffrey C. Peyton, LPC, NCC, CADC-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeffrey C. Peyton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CADC-II
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
I am an experienced addictions counselor, and view substance use as only one aspect of an individual.
As an experienced adolescent therapist, I am passionate about helping teens and young adults figure out who they are, who they want to be, and the barriers keeping them from realizing these goals. I have assisted hundreds of adolescents through academic challenges, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, substance use, ADHD, traumatic experiences, social anxiety and divorce. We work together to develop healthy ways to manage our emotional life, identify strengths which can support self-confidence and motivation, and learn to trust we are worthy of the love and connection we want in our relationships.
I am an experienced addictions counselor, and view substance use as only one aspect of an individual.
As an experienced adolescent therapist, I am passionate about helping teens and young adults figure out who they are, who they want to be, and the barriers keeping them from realizing these goals. I have assisted hundreds of adolescents through academic challenges, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, substance use, ADHD, traumatic experiences, social anxiety and divorce. We work together to develop healthy ways to manage our emotional life, identify strengths which can support self-confidence and motivation, and learn to trust we are worthy of the love and connection we want in our relationships.
(503) 406-1557 View (503) 406-1557
Photo of Nina Davis, LCSW, CMHC, CSAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nina Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CMHC, CSAC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical social worker with 10+ years of experience specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationships, grief & addiction. In my practice, I offer therapy and counseling services, as well as coaching, to help clients navigate life's challenges and achieve their personal goals. I provide life coaching and corporate wellness nationwide. I offer therapy and counseling services in the states of Florida, Hawaii, Oregon, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin. My mission is to create a supportive and empowering environment where clients can heal, grow, and thrive.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with 10+ years of experience specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationships, grief & addiction. In my practice, I offer therapy and counseling services, as well as coaching, to help clients navigate life's challenges and achieve their personal goals. I provide life coaching and corporate wellness nationwide. I offer therapy and counseling services in the states of Florida, Hawaii, Oregon, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin. My mission is to create a supportive and empowering environment where clients can heal, grow, and thrive.
(971) 365-3988 View (971) 365-3988
Photo of Stephen Scherr - Stephen Scherr Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
Stephen Scherr Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
The effects of personal traumas and addiction issues may be substantially reduced with psychotherapy often in conjunction with support groups and with medication when needed.
People come to see me because they are experiencing psychological distress and/or interpersonal difficulties. The in-depth look at these issues not only leads to symptom relief but to longterm change of dysfunctional and painful (sometimes unconscious) ways we may perceive and judge ourselves and to recognize and build on strengths. I enjoy being a psychotherapist in part because it is satisfying and exciting to see people become more insightful, effective and confident in each of the important areas of their lives. I have been doing this work for 35+ years and plan to continue for many years.
The effects of personal traumas and addiction issues may be substantially reduced with psychotherapy often in conjunction with support groups and with medication when needed.
People come to see me because they are experiencing psychological distress and/or interpersonal difficulties. The in-depth look at these issues not only leads to symptom relief but to longterm change of dysfunctional and painful (sometimes unconscious) ways we may perceive and judge ourselves and to recognize and build on strengths. I enjoy being a psychotherapist in part because it is satisfying and exciting to see people become more insightful, effective and confident in each of the important areas of their lives. I have been doing this work for 35+ years and plan to continue for many years.
(503) 400-7204 View (503) 400-7204
Photo of Anne Harris, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
I am especially effective working with survivors of trauma and PTSD, and individual struggling with addiction, long term relationship dynamics, depression, anxiety, life transitions, spiritual growth, eating disorders, body image, and issues of shame and identity.
As a therapist, I provide an inclusive, non-judgmental space in which you can process the feelings, while feeling heard and understood. As a client, you can expect to join efforts to explore, laugh, and find your voice again. I help my clients to find freedom and strength as you express thoughts and emotions in a safe environment, thereby deepening your relationship with your true self and with others. I believe the therapy relationship should be one of mutual respect and collaboration.
I am especially effective working with survivors of trauma and PTSD, and individual struggling with addiction, long term relationship dynamics, depression, anxiety, life transitions, spiritual growth, eating disorders, body image, and issues of shame and identity.
As a therapist, I provide an inclusive, non-judgmental space in which you can process the feelings, while feeling heard and understood. As a client, you can expect to join efforts to explore, laugh, and find your voice again. I help my clients to find freedom and strength as you express thoughts and emotions in a safe environment, thereby deepening your relationship with your true self and with others. I believe the therapy relationship should be one of mutual respect and collaboration.
(971) 220-7052 View (971) 220-7052
Photo of Christina Clark, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212
I am currently accepting new couples clients (self-pay), and individual clients. I offer a personalized and compassionate approach to therapy, informed by years of professional experience as well as in-depth training in somatic approaches, mindfulness techniques, and psychodynamic theory. Specializing in treating people suffering from trauma and eating disorders, I also work with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, grief, parenting, low self-esteem, addiction, and marital conflicts. I currently offer telehealth sessions to clients in both Oregon and California, as I am fully licensed in both states.
I am currently accepting new couples clients (self-pay), and individual clients. I offer a personalized and compassionate approach to therapy, informed by years of professional experience as well as in-depth training in somatic approaches, mindfulness techniques, and psychodynamic theory. Specializing in treating people suffering from trauma and eating disorders, I also work with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, grief, parenting, low self-esteem, addiction, and marital conflicts. I currently offer telehealth sessions to clients in both Oregon and California, as I am fully licensed in both states.
(503) 506-4927 View (503) 506-4927
Photo of Janis Crawford, PhD, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janis Crawford
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
The power of healing and growth is revealed through acceptance and integration. Perceived problems often conceal opportunities and strengths to which you hold the key. I am a guide for your journey of discovery. Whether you seek lifestyle change, analysis, or personal/professional growth, our relationship will support goal identification and attainment. I have been developing my craft since 1995 and am currently accepting students and professionals for clinical supervision and psychotherapy patients.
The power of healing and growth is revealed through acceptance and integration. Perceived problems often conceal opportunities and strengths to which you hold the key. I am a guide for your journey of discovery. Whether you seek lifestyle change, analysis, or personal/professional growth, our relationship will support goal identification and attainment. I have been developing my craft since 1995 and am currently accepting students and professionals for clinical supervision and psychotherapy patients.
(541) 241-8145 View (541) 241-8145
Photo of Mark Amoroso, LPC, CADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mark Amoroso
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients as of 6/23/2024. Inevitably, at some point in our lives we feel overwhelmed and exhausted as we try to keep it together in this incessantly pressurized world. If you're feeling swallowed up by depression, anxiety, stress, anger, or just emptiness, it’s important to remember that the way you feel right now isn’t how you have to feel tomorrow. The truth is that this negative emotion is indicating that certain aspects of your life are demanding to be addressed, as they would if you sprained your ankle. It is a signal that you are ready to find comfort and relief, ready for growth and change.
I am accepting new clients as of 6/23/2024. Inevitably, at some point in our lives we feel overwhelmed and exhausted as we try to keep it together in this incessantly pressurized world. If you're feeling swallowed up by depression, anxiety, stress, anger, or just emptiness, it’s important to remember that the way you feel right now isn’t how you have to feel tomorrow. The truth is that this negative emotion is indicating that certain aspects of your life are demanding to be addressed, as they would if you sprained your ankle. It is a signal that you are ready to find comfort and relief, ready for growth and change.
(971) 297-3361 View (971) 297-3361
Photo of Francesca L. Barnett, LMFT, CADCIII, Marriage & Family Therapist
Francesca L. Barnett
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CADCIII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
I use interventions to support people experiencing relationship issues, stress, trauma, addictions, grief, depression, parenting challenges, transitions and more.
Are you struggling with feelings of overwhelm, sadness, anger, loss, or relationship difficulties? Sometimes it's hard to pinpoint exactly what you're feeling, you just know it's affecting you deeply and something needs to change. You're not alone, I'm here to support you. My approach is empathetic, empowering and non-judgmental. I believe there's healing in being truly seen & understood. Together, we will navigate through difficult times creating balance and prioritize what matters to you most.
I use interventions to support people experiencing relationship issues, stress, trauma, addictions, grief, depression, parenting challenges, transitions and more.
Are you struggling with feelings of overwhelm, sadness, anger, loss, or relationship difficulties? Sometimes it's hard to pinpoint exactly what you're feeling, you just know it's affecting you deeply and something needs to change. You're not alone, I'm here to support you. My approach is empathetic, empowering and non-judgmental. I believe there's healing in being truly seen & understood. Together, we will navigate through difficult times creating balance and prioritize what matters to you most.
(503) 832-5545 View (503) 832-5545
Photo of Cassandra Gardner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cassandra Gardner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
When working with clients I prioritize the therapeutic relationship. We become a team working toward your goals, and I place significant value on honesty, authenticity, humor, compassion, validation, and accountability into our work together. Since starting my counseling practice I have worked with people of all ages and backgrounds experiencing various challenges including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, gender dysphoria, grief, interpersonal issues, life transitions, adoption, self-esteem, bipolar II disorder, and more.
When working with clients I prioritize the therapeutic relationship. We become a team working toward your goals, and I place significant value on honesty, authenticity, humor, compassion, validation, and accountability into our work together. Since starting my counseling practice I have worked with people of all ages and backgrounds experiencing various challenges including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, gender dysphoria, grief, interpersonal issues, life transitions, adoption, self-esteem, bipolar II disorder, and more.
(503) 966-8721 View (503) 966-8721
Photo of Stacie Wentling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacie Wentling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Not currently accepting new clients. Are you finding yourself ruminating on past conversations? Do you experience tightness in your shoulders/chest/neck or other areas of your body? Are you struggling to fall asleep or stay asleep? Do you continually feel upset/dismissed after conversations with a parent/partner? Is your inner critic incessant? Are you ready to learn techniques that will help you regulate your nervous system? Are you ready to practice safely reconnecting with your whole self? Are you ready to explore your inner system?
Not currently accepting new clients. Are you finding yourself ruminating on past conversations? Do you experience tightness in your shoulders/chest/neck or other areas of your body? Are you struggling to fall asleep or stay asleep? Do you continually feel upset/dismissed after conversations with a parent/partner? Is your inner critic incessant? Are you ready to learn techniques that will help you regulate your nervous system? Are you ready to practice safely reconnecting with your whole self? Are you ready to explore your inner system?
(971) 260-4205 View (971) 260-4205
Photo of Konrad von Walther - Konrad von Walther Lcsw LLC, CADC, I, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Konrad von Walther Lcsw LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CADC, I, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212
I AM accepting clients at this time. If you desire results, welcome. I offer HIPAA secure video conference and face-to-face therapy. I work with people feeling unsatisfied with their current life and emotional situations, looking for a deeper sense of fulfillment, connection, and/or balance in their lives. I help find the connection between their thoughts and feelings. I explore how desires manifest themselves as: depression, anxiety, fears, disinterest, grief, low self-esteem, etc. I also explore how these impact their body. He offers spiritual guidance and perspectives to those that wish. Labor issue therapist/legal ref.
I AM accepting clients at this time. If you desire results, welcome. I offer HIPAA secure video conference and face-to-face therapy. I work with people feeling unsatisfied with their current life and emotional situations, looking for a deeper sense of fulfillment, connection, and/or balance in their lives. I help find the connection between their thoughts and feelings. I explore how desires manifest themselves as: depression, anxiety, fears, disinterest, grief, low self-esteem, etc. I also explore how these impact their body. He offers spiritual guidance and perspectives to those that wish. Labor issue therapist/legal ref.
(503) 512-6042 View (503) 512-6042
Photo of Patrick Welly, MA, LMFT, Jungian, Analyst, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patrick Welly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, Jungian, Analyst
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Are you looking for a Jungian Analyst to help you navigate the tension of opposites and live life more deeply, passionately, and intentionally? My practice is rooted primarily in the relationship between my client and myself. It draws upon metaphor; experiental learning; traditional methods of analytical psychology (life narrative, dream exploration, authentic movement, exploring the intersubjective field between us) meditation; visualization; and spiritual inquiry.
Are you looking for a Jungian Analyst to help you navigate the tension of opposites and live life more deeply, passionately, and intentionally? My practice is rooted primarily in the relationship between my client and myself. It draws upon metaphor; experiental learning; traditional methods of analytical psychology (life narrative, dream exploration, authentic movement, exploring the intersubjective field between us) meditation; visualization; and spiritual inquiry.
(971) 248-0987 View (971) 248-0987
Photo of Drew Caesar, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Drew Caesar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Maybe your teen or partner is depressed? Stuck on Internet Porn? Maybe you have somehow been victimized? Feel anxious, or alone? Loss of loved ones? I offer a relationship based, non-judgmental approach informed by tested, evidence-based practices, including CBT and EMDR therapies - neither of which demand medication. EMDR directly targets traumatic or hurtful memories and helps put them "in the past." This has been shown to help with anxiety/fear, panic attacks, nightmares, self-esteem issues and various other symptoms associated with post traumatic stress. CBT further offers you the chance to not be overwhelmed by your experience.
Maybe your teen or partner is depressed? Stuck on Internet Porn? Maybe you have somehow been victimized? Feel anxious, or alone? Loss of loved ones? I offer a relationship based, non-judgmental approach informed by tested, evidence-based practices, including CBT and EMDR therapies - neither of which demand medication. EMDR directly targets traumatic or hurtful memories and helps put them "in the past." This has been shown to help with anxiety/fear, panic attacks, nightmares, self-esteem issues and various other symptoms associated with post traumatic stress. CBT further offers you the chance to not be overwhelmed by your experience.
(503) 567-5361 View (503) 567-5361
Photo of Todd Borgie, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Todd Borgie
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Finding a therapist can be a difficult task; actually calling one is even harder. When I am struggling with something I find myself irritable, directionless, and without energy (or too much nervous energy) a difficult time to build new relationships. It is my hope that stepping into my office might feel like finding an oasis; a welcoming place where you can put down your burdens, relax, and see what you can unpack or unload. I engage with people with acceptance and curiosity. I find things I like and inspiration in conversations. I am constantly amazed by people’s creativity, perspective, and desire to connect in a personal ways.
Finding a therapist can be a difficult task; actually calling one is even harder. When I am struggling with something I find myself irritable, directionless, and without energy (or too much nervous energy) a difficult time to build new relationships. It is my hope that stepping into my office might feel like finding an oasis; a welcoming place where you can put down your burdens, relax, and see what you can unpack or unload. I engage with people with acceptance and curiosity. I find things I like and inspiration in conversations. I am constantly amazed by people’s creativity, perspective, and desire to connect in a personal ways.
(510) 876-4972 View (510) 876-4972
Photo of Gail Hardman-Woung - Portland Neurofeedback, LLC, LCSW, PhD, LPC, QMHP
Portland Neurofeedback, LLC
LCSW, PhD, LPC, QMHP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Portland Neurofeedback is a licensed mental health clinic. People are different so we offer four different types of Neurofeedback. We support clients working through traumatic brain Injuries, concussions, central nervous system disorders, sleep issues, adrenal fatigue, trauma, and more. We are honored to walk you through the journey of healing. From The movie Wisdom of Trauma, we also offer Steven Porges' Safe & Sound Protocol. If you are tired of coping and ready to see some changes, it may be time to give us a call.
Portland Neurofeedback is a licensed mental health clinic. People are different so we offer four different types of Neurofeedback. We support clients working through traumatic brain Injuries, concussions, central nervous system disorders, sleep issues, adrenal fatigue, trauma, and more. We are honored to walk you through the journey of healing. From The movie Wisdom of Trauma, we also offer Steven Porges' Safe & Sound Protocol. If you are tired of coping and ready to see some changes, it may be time to give us a call.
(971) 940-2601 View (971) 940-2601
Photo of Michelle Smith, LMHC, LPC, LCMHC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC, LCMHC, MS
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
Welcome to your new beginning! You're doing the best you can, AND you can do better! If you have found yourself struggling with life maybe it's time to allow me to support you through your self-exploration journey. I believe everyone has the potential to manifest a life worth living, and I would love to help you take the steps towards making your vision your reality. I provide a client-centered, non-judgmental approach and will meet you where you are at to help support you to reaching those goals!
Welcome to your new beginning! You're doing the best you can, AND you can do better! If you have found yourself struggling with life maybe it's time to allow me to support you through your self-exploration journey. I believe everyone has the potential to manifest a life worth living, and I would love to help you take the steps towards making your vision your reality. I provide a client-centered, non-judgmental approach and will meet you where you are at to help support you to reaching those goals!
(971) 318-2389 View (971) 318-2389
Photo of Grace Spring, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Grace Spring
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Waitlist for new clients
My therapeutic work is grounded in the understanding that we all seek connection, acceptance, safety, and belonging. I emphasize a trauma-informed approach to counseling, which means I prioritize a strong relational foundation of trust. At my core, I trust in your intrinsic orientation towards healing and wholeness. This wisdom is what will help guide you on your therapeutic journey. I see my role, as your therapist, to be one in which I accompany you on your unique path.
My therapeutic work is grounded in the understanding that we all seek connection, acceptance, safety, and belonging. I emphasize a trauma-informed approach to counseling, which means I prioritize a strong relational foundation of trust. At my core, I trust in your intrinsic orientation towards healing and wholeness. This wisdom is what will help guide you on your therapeutic journey. I see my role, as your therapist, to be one in which I accompany you on your unique path.
(971) 396-3192 View (971) 396-3192
Photo of Allison Howells, MA
Allison Howells
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212
Accepting New Clients- Many of my clients are in recovery, have traumatic family dynamics, and generally struggle to feel settled in society. I’m interested in what brought you to the moment of seeking out therapy and how I can support you with getting your needs met. Historically I have worked with people impacted by trauma, especially those whose healing has become complicated by financial difficulties and a broken system. I have over 5 years of experience with trauma, and often help those who experience negative self talk, shame, anxiety, and depression.
Accepting New Clients- Many of my clients are in recovery, have traumatic family dynamics, and generally struggle to feel settled in society. I’m interested in what brought you to the moment of seeking out therapy and how I can support you with getting your needs met. Historically I have worked with people impacted by trauma, especially those whose healing has become complicated by financial difficulties and a broken system. I have over 5 years of experience with trauma, and often help those who experience negative self talk, shame, anxiety, and depression.
(503) 966-9180 View (503) 966-9180
Photo of Sam Wilson, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sam Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
Do you feel trapped by circumstances beyond your control? Are you unable to escape negative thoughts? Have you forgotten why you made the decisions that led you to this moment? Talk therapy can offer a way forward. Therapy can be a safe space to catch your breath, to talk out ideas that feel strange or risky, and to devise a new strategy for reconnecting with your best self. I'll do my best to help no matter what you're facing but right now I'm especially enthusiastic about working with young adults and professionals coping with ADHD, men's issues, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, depression, anger management and anxiety.
Do you feel trapped by circumstances beyond your control? Are you unable to escape negative thoughts? Have you forgotten why you made the decisions that led you to this moment? Talk therapy can offer a way forward. Therapy can be a safe space to catch your breath, to talk out ideas that feel strange or risky, and to devise a new strategy for reconnecting with your best self. I'll do my best to help no matter what you're facing but right now I'm especially enthusiastic about working with young adults and professionals coping with ADHD, men's issues, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, depression, anger management and anxiety.
(240) 292-8651 View (240) 292-8651
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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.