Photo of Meme Rhee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Meme Rhee
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
My area of expertise include: (teens and adults) Borderline Personality Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Addiction, Eating Disorders/Body Image EMDR/Trauma Resolution, Cross Cultural Counseling for Asian Americans, Creativity/Performance Enhancement, Couples/Family Therapy.
As a certified psychoanalyst, I specialize in treating teens and adults who struggle with depression; intense anxiety; obsessive-compulsive symptoms including invasive, disturbing thoughts; intolerable, painful emotions; high-conflict relationships; impulsive behaviors including suicidal and self-injurious behavior; substance and/or alcohol abuse; eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress symptoms. Our collaboration strives to help you find internal harmony. My method of investigation of the mind is designed to help you gain clarity in your thinking, achieve emotional containment and experience self-empowerment.
My area of expertise include: (teens and adults) Borderline Personality Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Addiction, Eating Disorders/Body Image EMDR/Trauma Resolution, Cross Cultural Counseling for Asian Americans, Creativity/Performance Enhancement, Couples/Family Therapy.
As a certified psychoanalyst, I specialize in treating teens and adults who struggle with depression; intense anxiety; obsessive-compulsive symptoms including invasive, disturbing thoughts; intolerable, painful emotions; high-conflict relationships; impulsive behaviors including suicidal and self-injurious behavior; substance and/or alcohol abuse; eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress symptoms. Our collaboration strives to help you find internal harmony. My method of investigation of the mind is designed to help you gain clarity in your thinking, achieve emotional containment and experience self-empowerment.
(202) 946-7632 View (202) 946-7632
Photo of Zachary Rothwell in Washington, DC
Zachary Rothwell
PMHNP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
I work with adults struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients are high performers who have become successful despite a difficult childhood. If you are curious how therapy can help you reduce your suffering, improve your relationships, and help you heal from past traumas, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. I am kink allied and sex positive. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
I work with adults struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients are high performers who have become successful despite a difficult childhood. If you are curious how therapy can help you reduce your suffering, improve your relationships, and help you heal from past traumas, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. I am kink allied and sex positive. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
(202) 953-5174 View (202) 953-5174
Photo of Leen Nguyen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Leen Nguyen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
I practice an integrative and holistic therapeutic approach, addressing mind, body, and spirit. With expertise in crisis, trauma, and addiction, I view clients through a contextual and social lens, guided by the Person-in-Environment Theory.
I practice an integrative and holistic therapeutic approach, addressing mind, body, and spirit. With expertise in crisis, trauma, and addiction, I view clients through a contextual and social lens, guided by the Person-in-Environment Theory.
(833) 659-8154 View (833) 659-8154
Photo of Lolade Bokini, Counselor in Washington, DC
Lolade Bokini
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Individuals living with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, ADHD, substance use work with me to explore how relationships, systems, experiences and their various identities might affect mental health. You'll candidly process your experiences, identify triggers and learn more adaptive cognitive, behavioral and emotional strategies to alleviate, eliminate, manage or build resilience and improve functioning. I work with immigrants, Latinx, LGBTQIA+, AAPI and BIPOC individuals and am attuned to the ways in which historical injustices and political structures affect the mental health of individuals.
Individuals living with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, ADHD, substance use work with me to explore how relationships, systems, experiences and their various identities might affect mental health. You'll candidly process your experiences, identify triggers and learn more adaptive cognitive, behavioral and emotional strategies to alleviate, eliminate, manage or build resilience and improve functioning. I work with immigrants, Latinx, LGBTQIA+, AAPI and BIPOC individuals and am attuned to the ways in which historical injustices and political structures affect the mental health of individuals.
(202) 883-7456 View (202) 883-7456
Photo of Ekene Elumelu, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Ekene Elumelu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Adults clients work with me to gain insight and skills to manage or eliminate anxiety, substance use, overwhelm, mood changes, inadequacy, shame, worry, sadness, concentration, transitions/adjustment, immigrant/expat identity and experiences, relationships, trauma, grief and more. We'll collaborate to complete a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and treatment plan/goals. We will explore how and why you adopted certain cognitive, behavioral and emotional patterns and identify new skills to manage or eliminate symptoms. I can incorporate your values, faith and traditions.
Adults clients work with me to gain insight and skills to manage or eliminate anxiety, substance use, overwhelm, mood changes, inadequacy, shame, worry, sadness, concentration, transitions/adjustment, immigrant/expat identity and experiences, relationships, trauma, grief and more. We'll collaborate to complete a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and treatment plan/goals. We will explore how and why you adopted certain cognitive, behavioral and emotional patterns and identify new skills to manage or eliminate symptoms. I can incorporate your values, faith and traditions.
(301) 867-5765 View (301) 867-5765
Photo of Jeffrey Ly | Porn Addiction Relationship in Washington, DC
Jeffrey Ly | Porn Addiction Relationship
MA, LPHA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001  (Online Only)
Pornography addiction can significantly impact your life and relationships but there is hope for recovery. I’m not just a mental health professional, I’ve been “you” for many years. I understand firsthand the personal struggles in your life and committed relationships that come with uncontrollable pornography use. The endless stream of attractive women a few clicks away on Pornhub, Onlyfan or Social Media is hard to quit even with all your willpower and promise to quit for the sake of your relationship.
Pornography addiction can significantly impact your life and relationships but there is hope for recovery. I’m not just a mental health professional, I’ve been “you” for many years. I understand firsthand the personal struggles in your life and committed relationships that come with uncontrollable pornography use. The endless stream of attractive women a few clicks away on Pornhub, Onlyfan or Social Media is hard to quit even with all your willpower and promise to quit for the sake of your relationship.
(703) 420-4961 View (703) 420-4961
Photo of Rob Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Rob Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, LICSW, CGP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I work with adults and couples who need help with relationship issues, life transitions, addiction recovery, anxiety and mood dysregulation, sex addiction, and sexual orientation.
As our lives evolve, we inevitably experience periods of loss, frustration and conflict that signal the need for better understanding and change. Are you experiencing a major life change or challenge? Job loss, relationship breakups, divorce, death, disappointment, or other crisis? Is your relationship less than you had hoped? Your angry, sad, anxious or lonely feelings may feel overwhelming, but you do not have to go through this alone. We can work together to help you develop an inner awakening and awareness to a more comfortable relationship with yourself, your life, and others. I can walk the journey with you.
I work with adults and couples who need help with relationship issues, life transitions, addiction recovery, anxiety and mood dysregulation, sex addiction, and sexual orientation.
As our lives evolve, we inevitably experience periods of loss, frustration and conflict that signal the need for better understanding and change. Are you experiencing a major life change or challenge? Job loss, relationship breakups, divorce, death, disappointment, or other crisis? Is your relationship less than you had hoped? Your angry, sad, anxious or lonely feelings may feel overwhelming, but you do not have to go through this alone. We can work together to help you develop an inner awakening and awareness to a more comfortable relationship with yourself, your life, and others. I can walk the journey with you.
(202) 455-5546 View (202) 455-5546
Photo of David Kiwanuka Lubega, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
David Kiwanuka Lubega
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
I am Mr. David E. Kiwanuka Lubega, LCSW, is a Clinical Social Worker specialist in Washington, District of Columbia and in the state of Maryland. I graduated in 1991, having over 30 years of diverse experience, especially in Clinical Social Worker, Management and as a therapist. I work with individuals and couples with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Marriage and Relationship issues, PTSD, Substance Abuse and Employment issues. My passion is to work with you as you walk that journey towards healing. I will be your guide through the troubled sea.
I am Mr. David E. Kiwanuka Lubega, LCSW, is a Clinical Social Worker specialist in Washington, District of Columbia and in the state of Maryland. I graduated in 1991, having over 30 years of diverse experience, especially in Clinical Social Worker, Management and as a therapist. I work with individuals and couples with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Marriage and Relationship issues, PTSD, Substance Abuse and Employment issues. My passion is to work with you as you walk that journey towards healing. I will be your guide through the troubled sea.
(202) 968-1685 View (202) 968-1685
Photo of Harpreet Kang, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Harpreet Kang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-VA, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Some of the concerns that individuals have come to me for help with are: * Depression * Anxiety and Stress * Life Transitions * Work and Career Issues * Trauma, including physical and sexual abuse * Recovery from Alcohol and Drug Addiction * Bi-cultural/Multicultural Identity Issues * Issues related to being a child of immigrants.
You are contemplating therapy because something is amiss in your life. Maybe you feel sad or anxious. Perhaps you feel alone? overwhelmed? It takes courage to enter therapy. To go on a voyage of self-discovery and change. It can be a rewarding journey. My approach focuses on helping you identify and work through whatever it is that is keeping you from reaching your full potential. I am collaborative, compassionate, and accepting. I have an interactive style, in which we work together to make sense of your experiences. Please contact me for additional information to help you make your decision.
Some of the concerns that individuals have come to me for help with are: * Depression * Anxiety and Stress * Life Transitions * Work and Career Issues * Trauma, including physical and sexual abuse * Recovery from Alcohol and Drug Addiction * Bi-cultural/Multicultural Identity Issues * Issues related to being a child of immigrants.
You are contemplating therapy because something is amiss in your life. Maybe you feel sad or anxious. Perhaps you feel alone? overwhelmed? It takes courage to enter therapy. To go on a voyage of self-discovery and change. It can be a rewarding journey. My approach focuses on helping you identify and work through whatever it is that is keeping you from reaching your full potential. I am collaborative, compassionate, and accepting. I have an interactive style, in which we work together to make sense of your experiences. Please contact me for additional information to help you make your decision.
(202) 629-0450 View (202) 629-0450
Photo of George H. Johnson, MSS, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
George H. Johnson, MSS, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
What's wrong with this relationship? The same problems keep on repeating time after time. So what does a study of psychology reveal? A well-trained and experienced psychotherapist can help to shine a light into the dark unconscious places which shroud the mysteries. This helps to bring the issues into consciousness, and once there, allows you to work with them. This work involves change. There may be many underlying issues including: mental states of anxiety and depression, an addiction, anger, lack of trust, various stressors, poor communication, extended family interferences, and more.
What's wrong with this relationship? The same problems keep on repeating time after time. So what does a study of psychology reveal? A well-trained and experienced psychotherapist can help to shine a light into the dark unconscious places which shroud the mysteries. This helps to bring the issues into consciousness, and once there, allows you to work with them. This work involves change. There may be many underlying issues including: mental states of anxiety and depression, an addiction, anger, lack of trust, various stressors, poor communication, extended family interferences, and more.
(215) 345-5175 View (215) 345-5175
Photo of Christopher Barry Hill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Christopher Barry Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003
Anxiety, Depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Abuse/Addiction, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, OCD, Phobias Social Anxiety, Couples/Marital Issues, Adjustment Disorders Personality Disorders, Child/Parenting, Family Issues, Medical Illness, PTSD, TBI, Panic Attacks, Psychosis, Anger, Chronic Pain.
*Now Accepting Tele-therapy Clients* Do you find yourself feeling sad, anxious, unhappy with life circumstances? Are you having relationship difficulties, feel stress from work, or have a child experiencing difficulties? I offer comprehensive assistance to change and work through many of life's challenges. If you find yourself suffering from any of these situations, or if you do not feel quite like yourself, let us help you begin on the road to improvement by addressing patient concerns, including but not limited to the following:
Anxiety, Depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Abuse/Addiction, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, OCD, Phobias Social Anxiety, Couples/Marital Issues, Adjustment Disorders Personality Disorders, Child/Parenting, Family Issues, Medical Illness, PTSD, TBI, Panic Attacks, Psychosis, Anger, Chronic Pain.
*Now Accepting Tele-therapy Clients* Do you find yourself feeling sad, anxious, unhappy with life circumstances? Are you having relationship difficulties, feel stress from work, or have a child experiencing difficulties? I offer comprehensive assistance to change and work through many of life's challenges. If you find yourself suffering from any of these situations, or if you do not feel quite like yourself, let us help you begin on the road to improvement by addressing patient concerns, including but not limited to the following:
(202) 759-4221 View (202) 759-4221
Photo of Ethan Mereish, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Ethan Mereish
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I am an award-winning psychologist, professor, and researcher with expertise in stress, mental health, substance use, and addiction.
It's courageous and wonderful that you are interested in starting therapy. As a psychologist, my goal is to provide you with a compassionate and empowering therapeutic experience to help you improve your mental health, reach your goals, and achieve your potential. I see therapy as a place for you to gain insights about your personal patterns, process difficult experiences, overcome obstacles, and improve your relationships.
I am an award-winning psychologist, professor, and researcher with expertise in stress, mental health, substance use, and addiction.
It's courageous and wonderful that you are interested in starting therapy. As a psychologist, my goal is to provide you with a compassionate and empowering therapeutic experience to help you improve your mental health, reach your goals, and achieve your potential. I see therapy as a place for you to gain insights about your personal patterns, process difficult experiences, overcome obstacles, and improve your relationships.
(202) 831-8978 View (202) 831-8978
Photo of Emily Maynard, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Emily Maynard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with people who have complicated relationships with their bodies. My patients come to me because they are interested in: addressing disordered eating and body image issues; learning to live better with medical problems; reconsidering their use of alcohol and drugs; or learning to live in their bodies as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or non-binary individuals. Many of my patients have also been through difficult or even traumatic events, that at times have made their bodies feel unsafe. I help my patients to reestablish a sense of trust and safety in their bodies.
I specialize in working with people who have complicated relationships with their bodies. My patients come to me because they are interested in: addressing disordered eating and body image issues; learning to live better with medical problems; reconsidering their use of alcohol and drugs; or learning to live in their bodies as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or non-binary individuals. Many of my patients have also been through difficult or even traumatic events, that at times have made their bodies feel unsafe. I help my patients to reestablish a sense of trust and safety in their bodies.
(805) 865-7569 View (805) 865-7569
Photo of Darby Integrative Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Darby Integrative Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCADAS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20011
Currently accepting new clients at Darby Integrative Counseling. We offer in-person and/or video sessions to accommodate your needs. We welcome you to the next courageous step on your journey walking through life's challenges. Are you struggling with fear, grief, sadness, anxiety, or stress? Have anger, shame or guilt been preventing you from the joys of life? Do your relationships at home or work feel strained? Let us awaken your best self and find solutions for the problems you face on your path to wellness.
Currently accepting new clients at Darby Integrative Counseling. We offer in-person and/or video sessions to accommodate your needs. We welcome you to the next courageous step on your journey walking through life's challenges. Are you struggling with fear, grief, sadness, anxiety, or stress? Have anger, shame or guilt been preventing you from the joys of life? Do your relationships at home or work feel strained? Let us awaken your best self and find solutions for the problems you face on your path to wellness.
(301) 945-7306 View (301) 945-7306
Photo of Lisa Marston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Lisa Marston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
You are unique, and so are your needs and goals. You're ready to move beyond talking about the issues. Together we can explore the obstacles that block you from living your life as your authentic self.
You are unique, and so are your needs and goals. You're ready to move beyond talking about the issues. Together we can explore the obstacles that block you from living your life as your authentic self.
(410) 656-6033 View (410) 656-6033
Photo of Sandhya Sharma, Counselor in Washington, DC
Sandhya Sharma
Counselor, LPC, CAC II, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20004
Sandhya Sharma is a South Asian Indian LPC and certified addictions specialist who works with: Adults, Teens, LGBTQ community, and International Communities. Sandhya will help create a safe and supportive therapy environment and work with you collaboratively to both accurately assess your strengths as well as areas of struggle. She will develop a treatment plan with you to help you facilitate behavioral changes that more successfully meet your goals. Sandhya will help you look at the ways you have been currently coping with life’s problems and help you to develop new strategies from a strengths-based perspective. 
Sandhya Sharma is a South Asian Indian LPC and certified addictions specialist who works with: Adults, Teens, LGBTQ community, and International Communities. Sandhya will help create a safe and supportive therapy environment and work with you collaboratively to both accurately assess your strengths as well as areas of struggle. She will develop a treatment plan with you to help you facilitate behavioral changes that more successfully meet your goals. Sandhya will help you look at the ways you have been currently coping with life’s problems and help you to develop new strategies from a strengths-based perspective. 
(703) 828-0647 View (703) 828-0647
Photo of Jessica M Chan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Jessica M Chan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CGP, MBA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
Life can sometimes turn difficult and painful, and at these times, reaching out for help can be reassuring and powerful. If you are feeling depressed, distressed, or anxious I can help. Together you and I will sift through the layers, untangle the thicket, and emerge more certain and clear. As we understand you better, we can use that knowledge to carve out a new path for you, one that offers greater ease and contentment.
Life can sometimes turn difficult and painful, and at these times, reaching out for help can be reassuring and powerful. If you are feeling depressed, distressed, or anxious I can help. Together you and I will sift through the layers, untangle the thicket, and emerge more certain and clear. As we understand you better, we can use that knowledge to carve out a new path for you, one that offers greater ease and contentment.
(202) 519-0690 View (202) 519-0690
Photo of Mengqi Li, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Mengqi Li
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Waitlist for new clients
No matter what has brought you to therapy, your experience is valid. I believe that even the most unlikeable, confusing, extreme parts of you have a wisdom to be understood, a protectiveness to be thanked, and a vulnerability to be seen and held. In my practice, I will seek to meet you exactly where you are, and together we can tend to the unique challenges in your life. My ultimate goal is for clients to uncover their essential self—to rediscover their own innate wisdom and strength that can face whatever life brings.
No matter what has brought you to therapy, your experience is valid. I believe that even the most unlikeable, confusing, extreme parts of you have a wisdom to be understood, a protectiveness to be thanked, and a vulnerability to be seen and held. In my practice, I will seek to meet you exactly where you are, and together we can tend to the unique challenges in your life. My ultimate goal is for clients to uncover their essential self—to rediscover their own innate wisdom and strength that can face whatever life brings.
(202) 360-4285 View (202) 360-4285
Photo of Yuko C Constas, Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy in Washington, DC
Yuko C Constas
Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy, MSMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be challenging. Perhaps you are feeling stuck in your marital or relational issues. Maybe, you are feeling hopeless after the loss of a loved one or job. When you need help and direction most, therapy can guide you through challenges. I believe that anyone can excel with sufficient guidance and support. My areas of concentration are couples’ issues, family conflicts, life transitions, self-esteem, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, emotional healing, spiritual issues, and more. Also, I use EMDR to help you with trauma and childhood experiences.
Life can be challenging. Perhaps you are feeling stuck in your marital or relational issues. Maybe, you are feeling hopeless after the loss of a loved one or job. When you need help and direction most, therapy can guide you through challenges. I believe that anyone can excel with sufficient guidance and support. My areas of concentration are couples’ issues, family conflicts, life transitions, self-esteem, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, emotional healing, spiritual issues, and more. Also, I use EMDR to help you with trauma and childhood experiences.
(571) 200-4860 View (571) 200-4860
Photo of Renu K. Aldrich, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Renu K. Aldrich
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037  (Online Only)
Therapy can benefit you wherever you are in life, whether it's in the midst of a crisis, if you're feeling distant from a partner or your parents, or if you simply want to know yourself better. Providing therapy is a sacred calling for me, and I am honored to empower either individuals, couples, families, or groups to reach goals or explore the unknown. I use a systemic approach to help clients in the context of environments and identities. Together, we can grow and become the authors of our own stories. By accepting who we are and our imperfections, we increase our ability to love ourselves and connect more deeply with others.
Therapy can benefit you wherever you are in life, whether it's in the midst of a crisis, if you're feeling distant from a partner or your parents, or if you simply want to know yourself better. Providing therapy is a sacred calling for me, and I am honored to empower either individuals, couples, families, or groups to reach goals or explore the unknown. I use a systemic approach to help clients in the context of environments and identities. Together, we can grow and become the authors of our own stories. By accepting who we are and our imperfections, we increase our ability to love ourselves and connect more deeply with others.
(571) 570-3897 View (571) 570-3897
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.