Addiction Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Marcia Nickow, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Marcia Nickow
Psychologist, PsyD, CADC, CGP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
I love working with people of all cultures who have histories of trauma and addiction and who want to make pivotal breakthroughs in recovery. I work best with patients who engage honestly, directly and courageously; welcome challenges; and want to thrive. We discover and nurture strengths borne of struggle. I specialize in culturally responsive group treatment of trauma and addiction, relationship issues, family dynamics and multigenerational legacies. I empower patients; we tap into their insight, intellect, creativity and spontaneity. I enthusiastically welcome Black, Brown, Indigenous, and other People of Color to my practice.
I love working with people of all cultures who have histories of trauma and addiction and who want to make pivotal breakthroughs in recovery. I work best with patients who engage honestly, directly and courageously; welcome challenges; and want to thrive. We discover and nurture strengths borne of struggle. I specialize in culturally responsive group treatment of trauma and addiction, relationship issues, family dynamics and multigenerational legacies. I empower patients; we tap into their insight, intellect, creativity and spontaneity. I enthusiastically welcome Black, Brown, Indigenous, and other People of Color to my practice.
(847) 906-2483 View (847) 906-2483
Photo of Lisa Abrams, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Chicago, IL
Lisa Abrams
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCPC, CSADC, MCAP, ICADC, CIP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618
Specialized Care: Addiction & Co-Occurring Counselor, Consult, Coaching, Interventions Couples & Family Counseling Support individuals for whom non-traditional approaches to treatment have been ineffective and overly constrictive (e.g. AA)
Specialized Care: Addiction & Co-Occurring Counselor, Consult, Coaching, Interventions Couples & Family Counseling Support individuals for whom non-traditional approaches to treatment have been ineffective and overly constrictive (e.g. AA)
(312) 800-1772 View (312) 800-1772
Photo of Paul Valipour, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Chicago, IL
Paul Valipour
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60646
I am a Certified Alcohol and other Drug Counselor (CADC) and earned my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Northeastern Illinois University. I have 14 years of mental health experience that ranges all available levels of care. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, and OCD.
I am a Certified Alcohol and other Drug Counselor (CADC) and earned my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Northeastern Illinois University. I have 14 years of mental health experience that ranges all available levels of care. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, and OCD.
(708) 787-8472 x703 View (708) 787-8472 x703
Photo of Adam Ouanes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Adam Ouanes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Finding a new therapist is daunting. If you’re here, then life is probably getting in the way. The ways you used to cope may have stopped working. You might feel stuck and unsure where you are going. My job is to guide you towards change and help you unbelieve false narratives about yourself that are holding you back. Much of my work is focused on working with LGBTQ people, self esteem and managing relationship issues. I also specialize in working with gay men in recovery from addiction. Additionally, I work with co-occurring mental health conditions such as trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Finding a new therapist is daunting. If you’re here, then life is probably getting in the way. The ways you used to cope may have stopped working. You might feel stuck and unsure where you are going. My job is to guide you towards change and help you unbelieve false narratives about yourself that are holding you back. Much of my work is focused on working with LGBTQ people, self esteem and managing relationship issues. I also specialize in working with gay men in recovery from addiction. Additionally, I work with co-occurring mental health conditions such as trauma, anxiety, and depression.
(312) 847-2442 View (312) 847-2442
Photo of Inna Popko, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Inna Popko
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
Using an eclectic psychotherapy approach to address unique client needs, Inna helps clients and their families overcome impulsive, self-destructive behaviors. Her strategies enable people to better manage anger, cope with depression and anxiety, overcome addiction, promote personal growth, and exude higher levels of self-esteem while living happier, more successful lives. Inna integrates cultural fluency, her diverse understanding of cultural intelligence and interpersonal communications in multiple languages allows her to conquer barriers associated with cross-cultural differences.
Using an eclectic psychotherapy approach to address unique client needs, Inna helps clients and their families overcome impulsive, self-destructive behaviors. Her strategies enable people to better manage anger, cope with depression and anxiety, overcome addiction, promote personal growth, and exude higher levels of self-esteem while living happier, more successful lives. Inna integrates cultural fluency, her diverse understanding of cultural intelligence and interpersonal communications in multiple languages allows her to conquer barriers associated with cross-cultural differences.
(847) 443-5471 View (847) 443-5471
Photo of Vince Rock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Vince Rock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618  (Online Only)
, depression, anxiety), panic attacks, addiction, grief and loss, caregiving, resentment, guilt and shame, relationship challenges, men’s issues, and finding meaning in our lives.
We all experience great challenges in life. Sometimes we feel depressed, regretful, or unfulfilled. We may have difficulty adjusting to new circumstances or get stuck in patterns that no longer serve us. Whatever your difficulties, you CAN make progress in these areas through therapy. It is possible to work through challenges and grow into greater insight, contentment, and wisdom. Allow me to help. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience helping people like you. In our work together, you will find me to be present, warm, trustworthy, and respectful.
, depression, anxiety), panic attacks, addiction, grief and loss, caregiving, resentment, guilt and shame, relationship challenges, men’s issues, and finding meaning in our lives.
We all experience great challenges in life. Sometimes we feel depressed, regretful, or unfulfilled. We may have difficulty adjusting to new circumstances or get stuck in patterns that no longer serve us. Whatever your difficulties, you CAN make progress in these areas through therapy. It is possible to work through challenges and grow into greater insight, contentment, and wisdom. Allow me to help. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience helping people like you. In our work together, you will find me to be present, warm, trustworthy, and respectful.
(773) 992-1865 View (773) 992-1865
Photo of Dee Lewke, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Chicago, IL
Dee Lewke
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADCII, SAP, CCTP, MATC, CRPS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60610
Addiction is a disease of isolation.
I am aware the path to healing can be a bumpy and uncomfortable one. I provide a compassionate and empathetic approach to this healing process. My approach looks at our internal wounds that left untreated, continue to cause pain. I like to ask, in the words of Dr. Gabor Mate’, ‘why the pain, not why the addiction?' We know using a substance or behavior is how we cope with the pain that feels unmanageable. Our pain, ‘dis-ease’, and dis-comfort often stems from unresolved grief & loss and are the result of 'what happened to us'. Let's look at what happened to us instead of what is wrong with us. I believe this approach decreases shame
Addiction is a disease of isolation.
I am aware the path to healing can be a bumpy and uncomfortable one. I provide a compassionate and empathetic approach to this healing process. My approach looks at our internal wounds that left untreated, continue to cause pain. I like to ask, in the words of Dr. Gabor Mate’, ‘why the pain, not why the addiction?' We know using a substance or behavior is how we cope with the pain that feels unmanageable. Our pain, ‘dis-ease’, and dis-comfort often stems from unresolved grief & loss and are the result of 'what happened to us'. Let's look at what happened to us instead of what is wrong with us. I believe this approach decreases shame
(312) 548-9370 View (312) 548-9370
Photo of Nicholas J Piechotte, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Nicholas J Piechotte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I approach therapy with positivity, mindfulness, humor and goals. I am a certified substance abuse counselor and an EMDR trained clinician. I also incorporate spirituality to holistically treat my clients mind, body and soul. My clinical skills are rooted in CBT, DBT, Psycho-dynamic and Motivational Interviewing.
I approach therapy with positivity, mindfulness, humor and goals. I am a certified substance abuse counselor and an EMDR trained clinician. I also incorporate spirituality to holistically treat my clients mind, body and soul. My clinical skills are rooted in CBT, DBT, Psycho-dynamic and Motivational Interviewing.
(312) 874-5275 View (312) 874-5275
Photo of Peggy L Kepple, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Peggy L Kepple
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, GC-C
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
As a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), I understand the complexities of addiction and dual diagnosis.
I'm passionate about helping my clients navigate life's journey, be it depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief and loss, strained relationships or employment struggles. I specialize in substance abuse and grief. I work with dual-diagnosis clients and understand the genetic and environmental component of addiction and how individuals may self-medicate for unresolved issues in their lives. In addition, I'm trained as a Grief Counselor and work with clients experiencing grief and loss. I believe in allowing clients a space to grieve.
As a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), I understand the complexities of addiction and dual diagnosis.
I'm passionate about helping my clients navigate life's journey, be it depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief and loss, strained relationships or employment struggles. I specialize in substance abuse and grief. I work with dual-diagnosis clients and understand the genetic and environmental component of addiction and how individuals may self-medicate for unresolved issues in their lives. In addition, I'm trained as a Grief Counselor and work with clients experiencing grief and loss. I believe in allowing clients a space to grieve.
(312) 847-1517 View (312) 847-1517
Photo of Cristina Valencia, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Cristina Valencia
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, addiction, grief, life transitions, trauma, relational conflicts, and cultural/racial identity issues.
Making the decision to enter therapy can be frightening and may weigh heavily on us yet it can make all the difference when we feel stuck, conflicted, or alone. If you have something in mind that you would like to see change, we can work collaboratively to address emotional barriers, past experiences, stressors, or relationship patterns that may be exacerbating your concern. I believe that a safe, warm, validating, culturally competent, and empathic therapeutic relationship is the foundation for change.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, addiction, grief, life transitions, trauma, relational conflicts, and cultural/racial identity issues.
Making the decision to enter therapy can be frightening and may weigh heavily on us yet it can make all the difference when we feel stuck, conflicted, or alone. If you have something in mind that you would like to see change, we can work collaboratively to address emotional barriers, past experiences, stressors, or relationship patterns that may be exacerbating your concern. I believe that a safe, warm, validating, culturally competent, and empathic therapeutic relationship is the foundation for change.
(708) 809-3697 View (708) 809-3697
Photo of Elba Iris Lara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Elba Iris Lara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654
I am a substance use/mental health therapist and coach who specializes in individual, family and group therapy/education, and collaborate with community resources to better support clients in making long term changes.
Are you in a place where you feel the need to make changes in your life to improve your happiness and overall well-being? Maybe it's addressing your social drug/alcohol use, or wondering why you feel stuck, and feel the need to explore your intrinsic wants/needs. I believe there's an importance in empowering one's spirit, identifying blocks, and in learning new skills to strengthen one's ability to make wanted changes. I focus on enhancing existing strengths, encouraging mindfulness, and building coping skills to support these changes.
I am a substance use/mental health therapist and coach who specializes in individual, family and group therapy/education, and collaborate with community resources to better support clients in making long term changes.
Are you in a place where you feel the need to make changes in your life to improve your happiness and overall well-being? Maybe it's addressing your social drug/alcohol use, or wondering why you feel stuck, and feel the need to explore your intrinsic wants/needs. I believe there's an importance in empowering one's spirit, identifying blocks, and in learning new skills to strengthen one's ability to make wanted changes. I focus on enhancing existing strengths, encouraging mindfulness, and building coping skills to support these changes.
(872) 395-6223 View (872) 395-6223
Photo of Daniel Wimsatt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Daniel Wimsatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
I have over 20 years of clinical experience helping individuals with a variety of life challenges. Some of the issues that I specialize in are: anxiety, depression, addiction, substance abuse, life transitions, and grief and loss. I strive to work from a place of non-judgement, creating support and emotional safety within the therapeutic relationship. I believe that emotional wellness and change in therapy are only possible when people feel encouraged and safe. One of my primary goals is to help my patients find a deeper connection to their authentic selves.
I have over 20 years of clinical experience helping individuals with a variety of life challenges. Some of the issues that I specialize in are: anxiety, depression, addiction, substance abuse, life transitions, and grief and loss. I strive to work from a place of non-judgement, creating support and emotional safety within the therapeutic relationship. I believe that emotional wellness and change in therapy are only possible when people feel encouraged and safe. One of my primary goals is to help my patients find a deeper connection to their authentic selves.
(773) 922-6558 View (773) 922-6558
Photo of Aaron Swerdlove, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Aaron Swerdlove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
I am IFS (Internal Family Systems) Level 1 trained, intermediate student level of Somatic Experiencing approach for trauma, and CSAT-C (Certified Sex Addiction Therapist-candidate).
Finding our true sense of Self or "Good nature" can be very helpful for healing and personal growth. Understanding our personalty structure or internal landscape i.e. the "Critic" , or the "inner child" etc can lead to clarity, compassion, curiosity, connectedness, courage, creativity, confidence, calm and everything in this wheelhouse. These are the characteristics of Self leadership. Come and explore with me, I'm here to help.
I am IFS (Internal Family Systems) Level 1 trained, intermediate student level of Somatic Experiencing approach for trauma, and CSAT-C (Certified Sex Addiction Therapist-candidate).
Finding our true sense of Self or "Good nature" can be very helpful for healing and personal growth. Understanding our personalty structure or internal landscape i.e. the "Critic" , or the "inner child" etc can lead to clarity, compassion, curiosity, connectedness, courage, creativity, confidence, calm and everything in this wheelhouse. These are the characteristics of Self leadership. Come and explore with me, I'm here to help.
(872) 204-2733 View (872) 204-2733
Photo of Ashley M. Lewis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Ashley M. Lewis
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhDc, LPC-NCC, BSP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605
Ashley works with and has a passion for providing services to individuals living with/battling mental health, learning, mood, performance, and traumatic dysregulations- from adolescents, adults, to older adults. She specializes in athletic/human performance psychology and substance use/misuse- harm reduction. Along with providing services, she has a dedication to being a light and a gatekeeper for the fields of mental health, counseling, clinical supervision, and sport psychology. It is her desire to see folks live in their purpose(s) and be the optimal versions of their true/authentic selves.
Ashley works with and has a passion for providing services to individuals living with/battling mental health, learning, mood, performance, and traumatic dysregulations- from adolescents, adults, to older adults. She specializes in athletic/human performance psychology and substance use/misuse- harm reduction. Along with providing services, she has a dedication to being a light and a gatekeeper for the fields of mental health, counseling, clinical supervision, and sport psychology. It is her desire to see folks live in their purpose(s) and be the optimal versions of their true/authentic selves.
View
Photo of Hillary Hause, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Hillary Hause
Counselor, LCPC, CSAT, EMDR, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60612
Whether you are suffering from an addiction, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, or relationship struggles, partnering with me can help you gain the strength you need to make a commitment to yourself and follow the change through.
Feeling like things in your life will never change? Let's start change together. Approaching any kind of change alone feels daunting. Whether struggling with addiction and the family disruption that accompanies loving those who struggle, anxiety, depression, or intimacy and sexual health - I am here to navigate change alongside you. My therapeutic approach is client-centered and tailored to you as an individual. I provide a non-judgmental, relaxed space that is centered around making you feel a sense of warmth and safety. My goal is to provide a space for you to fully express and explore your emotions.
Whether you are suffering from an addiction, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, or relationship struggles, partnering with me can help you gain the strength you need to make a commitment to yourself and follow the change through.
Feeling like things in your life will never change? Let's start change together. Approaching any kind of change alone feels daunting. Whether struggling with addiction and the family disruption that accompanies loving those who struggle, anxiety, depression, or intimacy and sexual health - I am here to navigate change alongside you. My therapeutic approach is client-centered and tailored to you as an individual. I provide a non-judgmental, relaxed space that is centered around making you feel a sense of warmth and safety. My goal is to provide a space for you to fully express and explore your emotions.
(773) 867-5663 View (773) 867-5663
Photo of Randall O'Neill, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Randall O'Neill
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MAT, MSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Waitlist for new clients
I have also worked extensively with individuals suffering from addiction.
As a member of the LGBTQ community, I understand how important it is to find a therapist with whom one can identify and feel comfortable sharing the very personal reasons that bring individuals to counseling. As such, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space in which to explore the needs of my clients. For me, finding meaning and purpose is paramount to maintaining one's mental health. As such I work in collaboration with my clients to help find those things that make one feel whole and connected.
I have also worked extensively with individuals suffering from addiction.
As a member of the LGBTQ community, I understand how important it is to find a therapist with whom one can identify and feel comfortable sharing the very personal reasons that bring individuals to counseling. As such, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space in which to explore the needs of my clients. For me, finding meaning and purpose is paramount to maintaining one's mental health. As such I work in collaboration with my clients to help find those things that make one feel whole and connected.
(872) 704-8370 View (872) 704-8370
Photo of Jl Family Services Ltd. in Chicago, IL
Jl Family Services Ltd.
LCPC, CADC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
I have a deep passion for working with individuals seeking support for issues related to sex, sexual dysfunction, and substance abuse. I believe in the transformative power of addressing these challenges head-on and creating a space where healing can flourish. With empathy and expertise, I am here to guide you on your unique path toward reclaiming your sexual well-being and overcoming substance abuse, empowering you to live a fulfilling and vibrant life. I am dedicated to guiding individuals toward a path of healing, empowerment, and personal growth.
I have a deep passion for working with individuals seeking support for issues related to sex, sexual dysfunction, and substance abuse. I believe in the transformative power of addressing these challenges head-on and creating a space where healing can flourish. With empathy and expertise, I am here to guide you on your unique path toward reclaiming your sexual well-being and overcoming substance abuse, empowering you to live a fulfilling and vibrant life. I am dedicated to guiding individuals toward a path of healing, empowerment, and personal growth.
(312) 957-7682 View (312) 957-7682
Photo of Timothy Armon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Timothy Armon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60654
Are you looking for a non-judgmental therapist who will meet you where you're at? Do you want to live intentionally and feel more connected to your life? As a compassionate therapist, I specialize in addiction and helping individuals overcome anxiety, depression, and trauma. Together, we'll work towards intentional living, cultivating resilience, and creating a plan for positive change. I offer a safe, warm space to explore your thoughts and feelings. Let's find connection and purpose in your life. I work with diverse individuals and welcome anyone seeking support.
Are you looking for a non-judgmental therapist who will meet you where you're at? Do you want to live intentionally and feel more connected to your life? As a compassionate therapist, I specialize in addiction and helping individuals overcome anxiety, depression, and trauma. Together, we'll work towards intentional living, cultivating resilience, and creating a plan for positive change. I offer a safe, warm space to explore your thoughts and feelings. Let's find connection and purpose in your life. I work with diverse individuals and welcome anyone seeking support.
(708) 742-6466 View (708) 742-6466
Photo of Mariah Riley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Mariah Riley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
It's my goal to create an honest, warm, and empowering healing environment for every person I work with. I strive to meet each person's unique needs and tailor my style to be conducive to their healing journey. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, or addiction, we can create a plan suitable to your needs. In my work, I've seen the importance of the therapeutic relationship. I am eager to help you prioritize your goals and set objectives to reach them. We will process triggering events together and I will provide you with tools to continue processing on your own in a healthier way.
It's my goal to create an honest, warm, and empowering healing environment for every person I work with. I strive to meet each person's unique needs and tailor my style to be conducive to their healing journey. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, or addiction, we can create a plan suitable to your needs. In my work, I've seen the importance of the therapeutic relationship. I am eager to help you prioritize your goals and set objectives to reach them. We will process triggering events together and I will provide you with tools to continue processing on your own in a healthier way.
(312) 900-9732 View (312) 900-9732
Photo of Daniella Martinez, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Daniella Martinez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
Have you ever struggled to stop a behavior or stop using a substance and felt discouraged? You are not alone, and change is possible.
I have a passion for helping individuals overcome challenges, and have a better understanding of themselves and what they want in life. I specialize in working with children and adolescents, individuals with substance abuse, and transitioning through life's daily struggles. As a former teacher, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges that children and teens face, including academic stress, peer pressure, and social anxiety. I also help clients with substance abuse issues navigate the challenges and build resilience, by processing the underlying issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem.
Have you ever struggled to stop a behavior or stop using a substance and felt discouraged? You are not alone, and change is possible.
I have a passion for helping individuals overcome challenges, and have a better understanding of themselves and what they want in life. I specialize in working with children and adolescents, individuals with substance abuse, and transitioning through life's daily struggles. As a former teacher, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges that children and teens face, including academic stress, peer pressure, and social anxiety. I also help clients with substance abuse issues navigate the challenges and build resilience, by processing the underlying issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem.
(312) 728-4057 View (312) 728-4057

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.