Photo of Adam Sisson, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Adam Sisson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
Hello and welcome! It takes courage to reach out for help. Congratulate yourself, searching this site is a win! I am a good fit for someone who is working through trauma and the symptoms of trauma: depression, anxiety, detachment from self and others, and addiction. I focus on creating deeper and more meaningful relationships with yourself, your loved ones, and the world around you. I believe we are always on a journey to create a meaningful story for our lives, and I believe our need for healthy and meaningful relationships is core to the human experience.
Hello and welcome! It takes courage to reach out for help. Congratulate yourself, searching this site is a win! I am a good fit for someone who is working through trauma and the symptoms of trauma: depression, anxiety, detachment from self and others, and addiction. I focus on creating deeper and more meaningful relationships with yourself, your loved ones, and the world around you. I believe we are always on a journey to create a meaningful story for our lives, and I believe our need for healthy and meaningful relationships is core to the human experience.
(530) 290-8422 View (530) 290-8422
Photo of Beverly Norton, PsyD, Psychologist
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 Tim Stephens - Stephens Family Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephens Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 94203
My qualifications and 15 years of experience in working with diverse organizations around the world, specializing on the assessment, treatment, substance abuse issues, and mental health challenges.
You don’t have to go down that road alone! If you’re wondering how to find a good psychotherapist, look no further! We will work with you to create and consider alternatives to old habits you want to let go of. Through our proven psychotherapy process, you’ll learn to develop new thoughts and implement desirable cohesive behaviors. We believe that every individual is unique, so we do not follow a cookie-cutter approach to help you overcome whatever mental, emotional, or psychological issues you may have. You can take total control of your life; I can help you!
My qualifications and 15 years of experience in working with diverse organizations around the world, specializing on the assessment, treatment, substance abuse issues, and mental health challenges.
You don’t have to go down that road alone! If you’re wondering how to find a good psychotherapist, look no further! We will work with you to create and consider alternatives to old habits you want to let go of. Through our proven psychotherapy process, you’ll learn to develop new thoughts and implement desirable cohesive behaviors. We believe that every individual is unique, so we do not follow a cookie-cutter approach to help you overcome whatever mental, emotional, or psychological issues you may have. You can take total control of your life; I can help you!
(530) 491-4409 View (530) 491-4409
Photo of Leslie Haws, MA, CSAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leslie Haws
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
Leslie is a member of SASH (Society for the Advancement of Sexual Health); IITAP (International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals); AASECT (American Association of Sexuality, Educators, Counselors, and Therapists) and CAMFT (California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists).
Leslie earned a B.A. degree with honors in Sociology and Political Science in 1986 and in 1996 completed a Master's in Education with a specialty in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of San Francisco. Since 1998 she has offered cutting edge and integrative therapy to clients in her private practice-New Bridge Counseling Services. In 2005 she became the Executive Director of LifeSTAR Sacramento Counseling Agency bringing the LifeSTAR network program to the greater Sacramento area.
Leslie is a member of SASH (Society for the Advancement of Sexual Health); IITAP (International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals); AASECT (American Association of Sexuality, Educators, Counselors, and Therapists) and CAMFT (California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists).
Leslie earned a B.A. degree with honors in Sociology and Political Science in 1986 and in 1996 completed a Master's in Education with a specialty in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of San Francisco. Since 1998 she has offered cutting edge and integrative therapy to clients in her private practice-New Bridge Counseling Services. In 2005 she became the Executive Director of LifeSTAR Sacramento Counseling Agency bringing the LifeSTAR network program to the greater Sacramento area.
(916) 507-0922 View (916) 507-0922
Photo of George Castro, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
George Castro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95835
I'm very familiar with addiction and substance-related issues such as co-dependency, and personality diagnoses.
Hello, My name is George A. Castro, LMFT and I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I love to work with individuals, couples, and families. I work from a humanistic person-centered approach to therapy. Treating everyone with empathy, compassion, and respect for the challenges they may be facing. My expertise is in anxiety, depression, and trauma. My strength is working with young adults and teenagers. I work with all types of people in a strengths-based way. I work very well with young people and adults. I'm very comfortable treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and other life challenges.
I'm very familiar with addiction and substance-related issues such as co-dependency, and personality diagnoses.
Hello, My name is George A. Castro, LMFT and I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I love to work with individuals, couples, and families. I work from a humanistic person-centered approach to therapy. Treating everyone with empathy, compassion, and respect for the challenges they may be facing. My expertise is in anxiety, depression, and trauma. My strength is working with young adults and teenagers. I work with all types of people in a strengths-based way. I work very well with young people and adults. I'm very comfortable treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and other life challenges.
(562) 521-9401 View (562) 521-9401
Photo of Molly Mulanax, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Molly Mulanax
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 94207  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating women struggling with anxiety, depression, codependency, history of family dysfunction, history of family substance use, perfectionism, low self esteem and navigating motherhood. My goal as a therapist is to help you reach a greater understanding and compassion for yourself, heal from painful experiences and to find new ways of coping with stress and interacting with others. I am committed to learning about who you truly are and working with you to make long lasting changes.
I specialize in treating women struggling with anxiety, depression, codependency, history of family dysfunction, history of family substance use, perfectionism, low self esteem and navigating motherhood. My goal as a therapist is to help you reach a greater understanding and compassion for yourself, heal from painful experiences and to find new ways of coping with stress and interacting with others. I am committed to learning about who you truly are and working with you to make long lasting changes.
(510) 858-2597 View (510) 858-2597
Photo of Sarah Bendon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Bendon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825  (Online Only)
My name is Sarah Bendon, LMFT and my license number is LMFT 99248. I have experience with a wide range of clients and therapy approaches. I have experience with families, children, individuals, and more specifically veterans and related issues, alcohol and substance use, LGBTQIA+, divorce, grief, mood disorders, stress, life transitions, self-esteem, body image, anxiety, depression, and other issues. I adapt my orientation used in therapy which is tailored to each client's needs and beliefs. I believe that all clients can benefit from therapy as they encounter various issues and struggles in life.
My name is Sarah Bendon, LMFT and my license number is LMFT 99248. I have experience with a wide range of clients and therapy approaches. I have experience with families, children, individuals, and more specifically veterans and related issues, alcohol and substance use, LGBTQIA+, divorce, grief, mood disorders, stress, life transitions, self-esteem, body image, anxiety, depression, and other issues. I adapt my orientation used in therapy which is tailored to each client's needs and beliefs. I believe that all clients can benefit from therapy as they encounter various issues and struggles in life.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Robert Johnson, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robert Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95819
I believe in the healing force within each person and its natural inclination to arc towards wholeness and health. If we want it enough, have patience, clarity and support we can heal and feel freedom in life. Growth happens best in relationship and I am here to support you on your path, wherever that might be. I am anchored in Jungian psychology, Existentialism and AEDP/Somatic work. More importantly, I try to cultivate a sense of warmth, care, respect and curiosity in my work with clients. I work with clients experiencing: anxiety, depression, grief, relationship/family issues, PTSD, self-criticism and lack of meaning.
I believe in the healing force within each person and its natural inclination to arc towards wholeness and health. If we want it enough, have patience, clarity and support we can heal and feel freedom in life. Growth happens best in relationship and I am here to support you on your path, wherever that might be. I am anchored in Jungian psychology, Existentialism and AEDP/Somatic work. More importantly, I try to cultivate a sense of warmth, care, respect and curiosity in my work with clients. I work with clients experiencing: anxiety, depression, grief, relationship/family issues, PTSD, self-criticism and lack of meaning.
(530) 248-6965 View (530) 248-6965
Photo of Shannon O'Shea, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shannon O'Shea
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 94245
I am in awe of the power of the human spirit. I am inspired by the courage and strength it takes for a person to come to a place where they feel they no longer can be alone in a personal crisis and they reach out for support. It is in these very moments where grace is in motion and the potential for transformation is most fertile. I am passionate about working with others and feel honored in being part of someone's journey of self-discovery as they uncover the root and causes of their lack of connection with others, depression, anxiety, and grief.
I am in awe of the power of the human spirit. I am inspired by the courage and strength it takes for a person to come to a place where they feel they no longer can be alone in a personal crisis and they reach out for support. It is in these very moments where grace is in motion and the potential for transformation is most fertile. I am passionate about working with others and feel honored in being part of someone's journey of self-discovery as they uncover the root and causes of their lack of connection with others, depression, anxiety, and grief.
(530) 477-3426 View (530) 477-3426
Photo of Sasha Khalili, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sasha Khalili
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825  (Online Only)
I’m committed to providing an inclusive environment, embracing clients from all backgrounds, beliefs, races, sexual orientations, and lifestyles. Your unique story matters, and it’s my honor to carefully listen and walk alongside you. Psychodynamic perspectives to delve into unconscious patterns and cognitive-behavioral strategies to address thought and behavior changes. Integrative and existential approaches, exploring the broader context of your life and the search for meaning. Inner child work to heal past wounds and nurture your emotional well-being from the ground up.
I’m committed to providing an inclusive environment, embracing clients from all backgrounds, beliefs, races, sexual orientations, and lifestyles. Your unique story matters, and it’s my honor to carefully listen and walk alongside you. Psychodynamic perspectives to delve into unconscious patterns and cognitive-behavioral strategies to address thought and behavior changes. Integrative and existential approaches, exploring the broader context of your life and the search for meaning. Inner child work to heal past wounds and nurture your emotional well-being from the ground up.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Adam Abramson - The Sacramento Counselor Group, APCC, NCC, MS
The Sacramento Counselor Group
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95826
In the tapestry of life, there are moments when one feels adrift, questioning the very core of their existence. My ideal client is not just seeking a service; they are on a profound journey of self-discovery, a quest to unravel the layers of their identity and purpose. My ideal client apse for more than just superficial change- they crave a transformation that goes to the roots. Their goals extend beyond tangible; they are in pursuit of a life that aligns with their authentic self. It's not nearly about reaching a destination, but about the profound journey that shapes them along the way. Together, we embark on a journey of meaning.
In the tapestry of life, there are moments when one feels adrift, questioning the very core of their existence. My ideal client is not just seeking a service; they are on a profound journey of self-discovery, a quest to unravel the layers of their identity and purpose. My ideal client apse for more than just superficial change- they crave a transformation that goes to the roots. Their goals extend beyond tangible; they are in pursuit of a life that aligns with their authentic self. It's not nearly about reaching a destination, but about the profound journey that shapes them along the way. Together, we embark on a journey of meaning.
(916) 659-8109 View (916) 659-8109
Photo of Jeffrey W Danese, MS, MA, LMHC, LPCC
Jeffrey W Danese
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, MA, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816  (Online Only)
I graduated from a M.S. mental health counseling program at Eastern Washington University in 1995, got certified and ran a private practice in Seattle from 1995 through 2003. I worked in an outpatient community clinic, an inpatient psychiatric hospital, at retreat centers, and at a college counseling center until starting work on a PhD in Religious Studies and Psychology. I worked, studied, and lived in Europe, East Asia, and Africa before teaching 10 years at San Jose State University, so I am comfortable and confident working with very different sorts of people and I want everyone and anyone to feel welcome and at ease in my care.
I graduated from a M.S. mental health counseling program at Eastern Washington University in 1995, got certified and ran a private practice in Seattle from 1995 through 2003. I worked in an outpatient community clinic, an inpatient psychiatric hospital, at retreat centers, and at a college counseling center until starting work on a PhD in Religious Studies and Psychology. I worked, studied, and lived in Europe, East Asia, and Africa before teaching 10 years at San Jose State University, so I am comfortable and confident working with very different sorts of people and I want everyone and anyone to feel welcome and at ease in my care.
(916) 354-6244 View (916) 354-6244
Photo of Jason Baynes, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jason Baynes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
You are human. And if you are reading this you are somewhere in the middle of living out a great story - your life. Epics like these have been written for thousands of years, and we find ourselves existing, uniquely, in a long lineage of dramas, tragedies, romances, and comedies. But writing our own stories can be, and most often is, difficult. We can get stuck in chapters that seem to have no endings, desperately wanting to turn the page, but feeling, somehow, stuck and trapped. In our modern age, symptoms become characters that speak to us. Depression, Anger, Despair, and Anxiety, to name a few, start to fill our story.
You are human. And if you are reading this you are somewhere in the middle of living out a great story - your life. Epics like these have been written for thousands of years, and we find ourselves existing, uniquely, in a long lineage of dramas, tragedies, romances, and comedies. But writing our own stories can be, and most often is, difficult. We can get stuck in chapters that seem to have no endings, desperately wanting to turn the page, but feeling, somehow, stuck and trapped. In our modern age, symptoms become characters that speak to us. Depression, Anger, Despair, and Anxiety, to name a few, start to fill our story.
(916) 318-5501 View (916) 318-5501
Photo of Madison Ale Gomez, LMFT, , Marriage & Family Therapist
Madison Ale Gomez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
Hi there, I am currently booking for March & April of 2024, please email using the link or text (916) 884-3812. My goal is to create safety in vulnerability, inner acceptance & understanding. I work from an emotionally & trauma focused perspective. I assist clients in understanding current conflict while exploring your past trauma. Much of the work is through the battling the unconscious questions & creating inner awareness. My client's work becomes possible by disabling self-sabotaging situations, defensiveness, childhood wounds & trauma. My wish is for you to create a positive self image. In doing so, the work allows for you
Hi there, I am currently booking for March & April of 2024, please email using the link or text (916) 884-3812. My goal is to create safety in vulnerability, inner acceptance & understanding. I work from an emotionally & trauma focused perspective. I assist clients in understanding current conflict while exploring your past trauma. Much of the work is through the battling the unconscious questions & creating inner awareness. My client's work becomes possible by disabling self-sabotaging situations, defensiveness, childhood wounds & trauma. My wish is for you to create a positive self image. In doing so, the work allows for you
(916) 414-9406 View (916) 414-9406
Photo of Vasily Todoriko, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vasily Todoriko
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816  (Online Only)
Relationships move us, give us life, and can even suck the life out of us. We were made for them. That is why I specialize in them - relationships with friends, family, colleagues, ourselves, our higher power. Properly realigning these problematic, strained, estranged relationships transforms your suffering into purposeful, worthwhile living. Ultimately your fullest life is my goal as your therapist. The greatest gift you can bring to your relationships is you. The best gift you can give the world is your relationships. What will you choose to do with these two important aspects of your one life?
Relationships move us, give us life, and can even suck the life out of us. We were made for them. That is why I specialize in them - relationships with friends, family, colleagues, ourselves, our higher power. Properly realigning these problematic, strained, estranged relationships transforms your suffering into purposeful, worthwhile living. Ultimately your fullest life is my goal as your therapist. The greatest gift you can bring to your relationships is you. The best gift you can give the world is your relationships. What will you choose to do with these two important aspects of your one life?
(805) 973-0751 View (805) 973-0751
Photo of Aubrey-Pierre Keys, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aubrey-Pierre Keys
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95821
I have a number of treatment modalities to address diverse patient treatment. In addition, I have worked with clinical depression both moderate and severe over the last 12 years. Also, grief has been a difficult process for patients who loss a love one both deceased and divorced that I have treated in both traumatic and non traumatic cases. I also have a speciality with those who are dealing with difficult oartner relationships. (i.e. blended famillies, reactionary communication that deteriiorate the couple relationship, remarriage and divorce mediation) I also provide medication monitoring for patients taking psychotropic meds.
I have a number of treatment modalities to address diverse patient treatment. In addition, I have worked with clinical depression both moderate and severe over the last 12 years. Also, grief has been a difficult process for patients who loss a love one both deceased and divorced that I have treated in both traumatic and non traumatic cases. I also have a speciality with those who are dealing with difficult oartner relationships. (i.e. blended famillies, reactionary communication that deteriiorate the couple relationship, remarriage and divorce mediation) I also provide medication monitoring for patients taking psychotropic meds.
(916) 510-0729 View (916) 510-0729
Photo of April B Coloma, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
April B Coloma
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95826
As a licensed MFT, I provide both short-term and long-term psychotherapy in private practice. My practice serves the Greater Sacramento Valley region where I offer both in-person and online therapy via video appointments to California residents. I use a clinical structure but eclectic style in treatment approach and believe there is not a one-size-fits-all method that works for everyone. I believe people enter therapy at different stages of life and look to gain practical skills within a safe relationship.
As a licensed MFT, I provide both short-term and long-term psychotherapy in private practice. My practice serves the Greater Sacramento Valley region where I offer both in-person and online therapy via video appointments to California residents. I use a clinical structure but eclectic style in treatment approach and believe there is not a one-size-fits-all method that works for everyone. I believe people enter therapy at different stages of life and look to gain practical skills within a safe relationship.
(916) 299-8379 View (916) 299-8379
Photo of Sarah Astarte, PhD
Sarah Astarte
PhD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95864
It can also be utilized to supplement clinical therapy to address anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, psychotic disorders, addictions and relational conflicts.
Spiritual guidance and intuitive counseling includes spirituality with contemporary counseling practices to help with healing, empowerment, and transformation. Understanding of one's spirituality is subjective to each client. My specializations include body image and self-esteem, love and relationships, sacred sexuality, identity formation, self-empowerment, life transitions, grief and loss, death and dying, mind-body connection, archetypes, multiculturalism and GLBT identity and issues, and spirituality and growth. Goddess psychology, creative expression, dream work, Reiki, intuitive readings, and indigenous healing practices.
It can also be utilized to supplement clinical therapy to address anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, psychotic disorders, addictions and relational conflicts.
Spiritual guidance and intuitive counseling includes spirituality with contemporary counseling practices to help with healing, empowerment, and transformation. Understanding of one's spirituality is subjective to each client. My specializations include body image and self-esteem, love and relationships, sacred sexuality, identity formation, self-empowerment, life transitions, grief and loss, death and dying, mind-body connection, archetypes, multiculturalism and GLBT identity and issues, and spirituality and growth. Goddess psychology, creative expression, dream work, Reiki, intuitive readings, and indigenous healing practices.
(916) 520-6292 View (916) 520-6292
Photo of Melissa Tihin - Central Valley Family Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Central Valley Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95814
Central Valley Family Therapy is a group practice whose sole focus is providing individuals, couples and families support through all walks of life. Our clinicians recognize the importance of quality treatment for each and every client that walks through our doors. We welcome clients with culturally diverse identities, backgrounds, socio-economic statuses, and experiences. We believe that every person who seeks support should have access to quality mental health services. Our focus is not only on your unique therapeutic goals, but in providing our clients with a warm, friendly and nurturing environment.
Central Valley Family Therapy is a group practice whose sole focus is providing individuals, couples and families support through all walks of life. Our clinicians recognize the importance of quality treatment for each and every client that walks through our doors. We welcome clients with culturally diverse identities, backgrounds, socio-economic statuses, and experiences. We believe that every person who seeks support should have access to quality mental health services. Our focus is not only on your unique therapeutic goals, but in providing our clients with a warm, friendly and nurturing environment.
(916) 269-5422 View (916) 269-5422
Photo of Howard G Kaplan, PhD, Psychologist
Howard G Kaplan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95811
I am a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor with over 30 years of experience. I work with diverse individuals in a wide range of mental health settings. I am a caring and dedicated therapist who often goes the extra mile when it will assist a client. I highly value creative and artistic expression, and I help my clients tap into their strengths and passions. Clients I work with especially well are curious, introspective, willing to dig deep, and interested in becoming more compassionate towards themselves and others. They aren't afraid to look at their feelings in the here-and-now of the therapeutic relationship.
I am a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor with over 30 years of experience. I work with diverse individuals in a wide range of mental health settings. I am a caring and dedicated therapist who often goes the extra mile when it will assist a client. I highly value creative and artistic expression, and I help my clients tap into their strengths and passions. Clients I work with especially well are curious, introspective, willing to dig deep, and interested in becoming more compassionate towards themselves and others. They aren't afraid to look at their feelings in the here-and-now of the therapeutic relationship.
(949) 230-2189 View (949) 230-2189
1
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.