Photo of Hilary Matthews, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Hilary Matthews
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95833
Hello, my name is Hilary Matthews and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and substance abuse counselor in Nevada, California, Utah and Oregon. I use different modalities in therapy. most often using Cognitive Behavior techniques for a number of symptoms and diagnoses, including but not limited to mood disorders, trauma, grief, relationships, stress, and substance use. I enjoy working with older teens and adults ages 16-65. I am experienced in treating anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, substance use, relationships and other stressors.
Hello, my name is Hilary Matthews and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and substance abuse counselor in Nevada, California, Utah and Oregon. I use different modalities in therapy. most often using Cognitive Behavior techniques for a number of symptoms and diagnoses, including but not limited to mood disorders, trauma, grief, relationships, stress, and substance use. I enjoy working with older teens and adults ages 16-65. I am experienced in treating anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, substance use, relationships and other stressors.
(916) 659-5060 View (916) 659-5060
Photo of Jill Sheetz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Jill Sheetz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95826  (Online Only)
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed to practice in California. My areas of expertise include substance abuse, managing mood disorders, life stage transitions and grief and loss.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed to practice in California. My areas of expertise include substance abuse, managing mood disorders, life stage transitions and grief and loss.
(279) 400-1721 View (279) 400-1721
Photo of Stewart Bloom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Stewart Bloom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
Hello, I received a Masters degree from the Boston University School of Social Work, postgraduate training in addiction, couples treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy and brief therapy at the Harvard Medical School/Cambridge Hospital; licensed since 1990. Areas of expertise include addiction disorders, dual-diagnosis and couples therapy. I work with adults and youth experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disturbances and trauma; and utilize evidence-based interventions including cognitive-behavioral, dialectical, motivational and trauma-focused care. My goal is to help people attain wellness efficiently, thoroughly and safely.
Hello, I received a Masters degree from the Boston University School of Social Work, postgraduate training in addiction, couples treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy and brief therapy at the Harvard Medical School/Cambridge Hospital; licensed since 1990. Areas of expertise include addiction disorders, dual-diagnosis and couples therapy. I work with adults and youth experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disturbances and trauma; and utilize evidence-based interventions including cognitive-behavioral, dialectical, motivational and trauma-focused care. My goal is to help people attain wellness efficiently, thoroughly and safely.
(916) 545-7594 View (916) 545-7594
Photo of Dawn Mehalakis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Dawn Mehalakis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95842  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I have been working as a therapist for 13 years. In my work, I am fortunate to have worked with both children and adults struggling in childhood abuse, traumatic experiences, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. In addition, I work with adults with Substance Abuse Disorder, caregivers caring for a mentally ill loved one, functional life skills, relationship issues, and parenting.
I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) in California. I have been working as a therapist for 13 years. In my work, I am fortunate to have worked with both children and adults struggling in childhood abuse, traumatic experiences, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. In addition, I work with adults with Substance Abuse Disorder, caregivers caring for a mentally ill loved one, functional life skills, relationship issues, and parenting.
(530) 940-9538 View (530) 940-9538
Photo of Heather Waddle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Heather Waddle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95820  (Online Only)
Welcome! Starting on a healing journey in therapy can be intimidating, but I'm here to make your experience a positive one. Using empathy and going at your pace is my goal. I have experience working with adults with a variety of symptoms. I have a passion working with depression, trauma, anxiety, gender dysphoria, formerly incarcerated, and substance misuse. I am competent in Narrative, CBT, DBT, restorative justice, and trauma focused approaches. I also have experience working with first responders including correctional staff. In addition, I have specialized training working with gender dysphoria and gender affirming assessments.
Welcome! Starting on a healing journey in therapy can be intimidating, but I'm here to make your experience a positive one. Using empathy and going at your pace is my goal. I have experience working with adults with a variety of symptoms. I have a passion working with depression, trauma, anxiety, gender dysphoria, formerly incarcerated, and substance misuse. I am competent in Narrative, CBT, DBT, restorative justice, and trauma focused approaches. I also have experience working with first responders including correctional staff. In addition, I have specialized training working with gender dysphoria and gender affirming assessments.
(916) 623-1980 View (916) 623-1980
Photo of Michael Anthony Nevans, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Michael Anthony Nevans
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95822  (Online Only)
Mike likes to work with people who are ready to make changes in their life. They do not need to know exactly what that looks like or means yet, they just need to be sick and tired of feeling sick and tired. Mike enjoys working with people who have depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar, and addiction issues. He also practices couple therapy and likes to offer premarital counseling, empowerment couple's counseling, and helping the healing process post infidelity or other ruptures in the relationship. Mike spent 4 years working with people in an international setting in Tokyo and enjoys providing therapy in a multicultural space.
Mike likes to work with people who are ready to make changes in their life. They do not need to know exactly what that looks like or means yet, they just need to be sick and tired of feeling sick and tired. Mike enjoys working with people who have depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar, and addiction issues. He also practices couple therapy and likes to offer premarital counseling, empowerment couple's counseling, and helping the healing process post infidelity or other ruptures in the relationship. Mike spent 4 years working with people in an international setting in Tokyo and enjoys providing therapy in a multicultural space.
(925) 477-4985 View (925) 477-4985
Photo of Christine Rivlin, Counselor in Sacramento, CA
Christine Rivlin
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing addiction issues, and eating disorders.
I work primarily with adults who are wanting to manage symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I will be with you on your path to discovery, recovery, and finding the person you would like to become. I approach therapy with a client-centered approach in order to create a safe, comfortable space for you to share and express yourself, and your vulnerabilities. We will explore healthy ways to process your trauma, regulate difficult emotions, and restore broken relationships. I believe the trust built between Client and Therapist is powerful, and necessary in order to help you through your healing journey.
I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing addiction issues, and eating disorders.
I work primarily with adults who are wanting to manage symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I will be with you on your path to discovery, recovery, and finding the person you would like to become. I approach therapy with a client-centered approach in order to create a safe, comfortable space for you to share and express yourself, and your vulnerabilities. We will explore healthy ways to process your trauma, regulate difficult emotions, and restore broken relationships. I believe the trust built between Client and Therapist is powerful, and necessary in order to help you through your healing journey.
(415) 326-9859 View (415) 326-9859
Photo of Beverly Norton, Psychologist in Sacramento, CA
Beverly Norton
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95822
Hello, I am Dr. Beverly Norton. I have been a licensed psychologist for over a decade. I have experience working with people from different backgrounds who are struggling with a variety of obstacles. I have helped people with different diagnoses and/or life problems including depression, anxiety, trauma, LGBTQ issues, and addiction to name a few.
Hello, I am Dr. Beverly Norton. I have been a licensed psychologist for over a decade. I have experience working with people from different backgrounds who are struggling with a variety of obstacles. I have helped people with different diagnoses and/or life problems including depression, anxiety, trauma, LGBTQ issues, and addiction to name a few.
(323) 515-1335 View (323) 515-1335
Photo of Hazzel Angulo, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Sacramento, CA
Hazzel Angulo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
Trauma, anxiety, and addiction can make you feel stuck. The most important step towards healing is to address the unresolved emotion inside you. Healing requires feelings. Acceptance slowly dissolves pain. When we function from the fear and scarring of our trauma, the cycles continue until we learn how to transmute that energy into love. I apply a Holistic approach that integrates physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual forms of well-being, addressing the “whole” self. Through a holistic framework tailored to your unique needs, the goal is to support you develop a deeper understanding of the self on all these levels.
Trauma, anxiety, and addiction can make you feel stuck. The most important step towards healing is to address the unresolved emotion inside you. Healing requires feelings. Acceptance slowly dissolves pain. When we function from the fear and scarring of our trauma, the cycles continue until we learn how to transmute that energy into love. I apply a Holistic approach that integrates physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual forms of well-being, addressing the “whole” self. Through a holistic framework tailored to your unique needs, the goal is to support you develop a deeper understanding of the self on all these levels.
(213) 894-9098 View (213) 894-9098
Photo of Daniel Powell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Daniel Powell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95838
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. I'm comfortable working with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, bi-polar, substance abuse, psychosis, autism spectrum disorders and obsessive compulsive disorder. I implement individual evidenced based interventions designed to positive behavior change. I enjoy working with couples, families, parent training, adults and adolescents.
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. I'm comfortable working with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, bi-polar, substance abuse, psychosis, autism spectrum disorders and obsessive compulsive disorder. I implement individual evidenced based interventions designed to positive behavior change. I enjoy working with couples, families, parent training, adults and adolescents.
(619) 305-0826 View (619) 305-0826
Photo of Debra Ruiz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Debra Ruiz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95838
I specialize in working with multicultural adolescents, adults, and aging individuals and groups suffering with multiple social and emotional impairments and disorders, including neuro-developmental, schizophrenia, mood and personality, PTSD and trauma, addiction, somatic experiencing, conduct disorders, memory loss disabilities, and criminals.
My name is Debra O'Brien Ruiz, MS, LMFT (LMFT104549) and am licensed in California with 10-years professional work experience. I believe you are the expert of your story and have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming daily challenges. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I radiate enthusiasm, compassion, and empathy. I am deeply committed to helping others. I motivate others to live a life of purpose.
I specialize in working with multicultural adolescents, adults, and aging individuals and groups suffering with multiple social and emotional impairments and disorders, including neuro-developmental, schizophrenia, mood and personality, PTSD and trauma, addiction, somatic experiencing, conduct disorders, memory loss disabilities, and criminals.
My name is Debra O'Brien Ruiz, MS, LMFT (LMFT104549) and am licensed in California with 10-years professional work experience. I believe you are the expert of your story and have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming daily challenges. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I radiate enthusiasm, compassion, and empathy. I am deeply committed to helping others. I motivate others to live a life of purpose.
(747) 529-7936 View (747) 529-7936
Photo of Karen Olson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Karen Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95820
Hi there, I'm Karen Olson, a licensed clinical social worker. I have been a social worker for over 20 years. I help people with issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic pain, divorce, and LGBTQIA+ issues. My approach is direct and frank and I enjoy helping individuals and couples identify their strengths and overcome challenges. I take an eclectic approach that includes a variety of narrative/motivational interviewing. My ideal client is amenable to my direct approach and is as invested as I am in achieving their goals. I like feedback from clients on how they are doing and how our sessions are going.
Hi there, I'm Karen Olson, a licensed clinical social worker. I have been a social worker for over 20 years. I help people with issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, chronic pain, divorce, and LGBTQIA+ issues. My approach is direct and frank and I enjoy helping individuals and couples identify their strengths and overcome challenges. I take an eclectic approach that includes a variety of narrative/motivational interviewing. My ideal client is amenable to my direct approach and is as invested as I am in achieving their goals. I like feedback from clients on how they are doing and how our sessions are going.
(619) 374-8492 View (619) 374-8492
Photo of Jessica Garner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Jessica Garner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95811
I would like to help those who struggle with addiction or would like support in recovery.
I believe the best way to make progress in therapy is to have trust that your therapist understands you and makes you feel as comfortable as possible. I will try my very best to be that person for you. Therapy can seem weird, and vulnerability is hard for anyone. My name is Jess and I am an LCSW in California. I have worked in the medical field for most of my career. This has given me the unique opportunity to work with people of all ages, backgrounds, and situations.
I would like to help those who struggle with addiction or would like support in recovery.
I believe the best way to make progress in therapy is to have trust that your therapist understands you and makes you feel as comfortable as possible. I will try my very best to be that person for you. Therapy can seem weird, and vulnerability is hard for anyone. My name is Jess and I am an LCSW in California. I have worked in the medical field for most of my career. This has given me the unique opportunity to work with people of all ages, backgrounds, and situations.
(909) 679-3626 View (909) 679-3626
Photo of Radical Hope Center for Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Radical Hope Center for Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
Our therapists utilize evidence based practices and work with individuals who have had traumatic experiences, struggle with mood disorders such as depression or anxiety, have relationship challenges, substance use issues, and beyond.
Hope is where the healing begins. Therapy can provide a safe space to explore and unearth patterns, behaviors and beliefs that may be keeping us stuck. Our therapists believe in the power of radical hope and honesty. We strive to walk alongside you and support you in your journey to growth and recovery. We believe every person is unique in their experience, background, and needs. We will partner and collaborate with you to explore your patterns and experiences and support you in building a life that is more meaningful, fulfilling and aligned with your values.
Our therapists utilize evidence based practices and work with individuals who have had traumatic experiences, struggle with mood disorders such as depression or anxiety, have relationship challenges, substance use issues, and beyond.
Hope is where the healing begins. Therapy can provide a safe space to explore and unearth patterns, behaviors and beliefs that may be keeping us stuck. Our therapists believe in the power of radical hope and honesty. We strive to walk alongside you and support you in your journey to growth and recovery. We believe every person is unique in their experience, background, and needs. We will partner and collaborate with you to explore your patterns and experiences and support you in building a life that is more meaningful, fulfilling and aligned with your values.
(916) 571-6480 View (916) 571-6480
Photo of Laura Naughton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Laura Naughton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
We often come to points in life that leave us feeling lost, stuck and untethered. Whether you are grappling with anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, relationship issues, or beyond, you are not alone. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and would be honored to work with you. For many, therapy can provide a safe space to unpack and explore your feelings, experiences, thoughts, and fears while aligning with your values, goals and hopes to become more present, connected and fulfilled in your life. The relationship is key to this process and I strive to understand you, your identity, and your background.
We often come to points in life that leave us feeling lost, stuck and untethered. Whether you are grappling with anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, relationship issues, or beyond, you are not alone. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and would be honored to work with you. For many, therapy can provide a safe space to unpack and explore your feelings, experiences, thoughts, and fears while aligning with your values, goals and hopes to become more present, connected and fulfilled in your life. The relationship is key to this process and I strive to understand you, your identity, and your background.
(916) 634-0293 View (916) 634-0293
Photo of Trudy Kammerer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Trudy Kammerer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95823
With over 10 years of expertise in multiple evidence-based practices, including CBT, DBT, ACT, psychodynamic, trauma-informed care, relational, mindfulness-based, and existential, I work with clients to build a toolbox to manage their mental health. I enjoy working with a diverse population with various mental health needs. My experience ranges from adolescent students to aging retired adults. I provide therapeutic services to address anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, substance abuse, divorce, domestic violence, trauma, adjustment to major life events, loss, grief, communication skills, and interpersonal relationship issues.
With over 10 years of expertise in multiple evidence-based practices, including CBT, DBT, ACT, psychodynamic, trauma-informed care, relational, mindfulness-based, and existential, I work with clients to build a toolbox to manage their mental health. I enjoy working with a diverse population with various mental health needs. My experience ranges from adolescent students to aging retired adults. I provide therapeutic services to address anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, substance abuse, divorce, domestic violence, trauma, adjustment to major life events, loss, grief, communication skills, and interpersonal relationship issues.
(916) 848-7387 View (916) 848-7387
Photo of Kendra Cunha, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Kendra Cunha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95842
Welcome! My name is Kendra Cunha, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I believe that safety and trust are the foundation of a good therapeutic relationship. Despite your circumstances, I will welcome you into a judgment-free space. My client focus includes individuals (Adults and Teens), Couples, and Elders (65+). I enjoy working with all communities. My passion is helping those who are struggling with interpersonal relationships, family conflict, life transitions, trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, stress, medical trauma, and self-harm.
Welcome! My name is Kendra Cunha, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I believe that safety and trust are the foundation of a good therapeutic relationship. Despite your circumstances, I will welcome you into a judgment-free space. My client focus includes individuals (Adults and Teens), Couples, and Elders (65+). I enjoy working with all communities. My passion is helping those who are struggling with interpersonal relationships, family conflict, life transitions, trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, stress, medical trauma, and self-harm.
(916) 471-4435 View (916) 471-4435
Photo of Stephen Bryant Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Stephen Bryant Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
Mindfulness Therapy is suitable for relational conflicts, substance abuse and anger, as well as accessing the higher states of happiness, joy and abundant energy.
As a licensed psychotherapist and Buddhist teacher, clients receive compassionate support and encouragement to bring mindfulness and kindness to their problems, issues and life goals. Traditional psychotherapy is complementary to the meditative traditions which emphasize non-judgmental awareness, energy and the cultivation of positive emotions. Stephen graduated from the Professional School of Psychology in 1992. He has had specialized training in Buddhist Psychology, Gestalt, EMDR, Hypnotherapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. He teaches core mindfulness skills and meditation in daily life.
Mindfulness Therapy is suitable for relational conflicts, substance abuse and anger, as well as accessing the higher states of happiness, joy and abundant energy.
As a licensed psychotherapist and Buddhist teacher, clients receive compassionate support and encouragement to bring mindfulness and kindness to their problems, issues and life goals. Traditional psychotherapy is complementary to the meditative traditions which emphasize non-judgmental awareness, energy and the cultivation of positive emotions. Stephen graduated from the Professional School of Psychology in 1992. He has had specialized training in Buddhist Psychology, Gestalt, EMDR, Hypnotherapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. He teaches core mindfulness skills and meditation in daily life.
(916) 251-9986 View (916) 251-9986
Photo of Sally Gomes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Sally Gomes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95831
Sally treats a full list of issues; however, her specialties include anxiety disorders, depression, substance use, and spirituality.
Sally Gomes is a licensed clinical social worker offering behavioral health services to adults. Sally takes a holistic approach understanding that recovery encompasses aspects of mind, body, and spirit. Sally takes a humanistic approach to therapy. She feels the road to recovery is unique to each person. Sally encourages self-empowerment and assists individuals in tapping into their own inner wisdom to create the change they seek. She believes each person has the strengths to overcome challenges that will enable them to lead a meaningful and fulfilling life.
Sally treats a full list of issues; however, her specialties include anxiety disorders, depression, substance use, and spirituality.
Sally Gomes is a licensed clinical social worker offering behavioral health services to adults. Sally takes a holistic approach understanding that recovery encompasses aspects of mind, body, and spirit. Sally takes a humanistic approach to therapy. She feels the road to recovery is unique to each person. Sally encourages self-empowerment and assists individuals in tapping into their own inner wisdom to create the change they seek. She believes each person has the strengths to overcome challenges that will enable them to lead a meaningful and fulfilling life.
(916) 890-0224 View (916) 890-0224
Photo of Olivia Schulz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Olivia Schulz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95820
Hi there, I'm Olivia, an LMFT based in Sacramento, CA. I am a Woman, Mother, Wife, and Therapist, in that order. I am a Latina and have lived in California my entire life. I have experience with children, teens, foster youth, at-risk youth, young adults, young professionals, persons in the helping field, and couples. I have experience working with issues and diagnoses such as addiction, recovery, self-harm, life transitions, parental loss, blended families, LGBTQ, parent-child relational issues, communication issues, anger, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Hi there, I'm Olivia, an LMFT based in Sacramento, CA. I am a Woman, Mother, Wife, and Therapist, in that order. I am a Latina and have lived in California my entire life. I have experience with children, teens, foster youth, at-risk youth, young adults, young professionals, persons in the helping field, and couples. I have experience working with issues and diagnoses such as addiction, recovery, self-harm, life transitions, parental loss, blended families, LGBTQ, parent-child relational issues, communication issues, anger, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
(562) 268-4115 View (562) 268-4115
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.