Mari Wittum
Counselor, MSCP, LCPC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
I will provide a safe place, an open mind, a compassionate heart, and a listening ear. Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or in a crisis? I will provide an appointment within 24 hours if needed. Not in a crisis but just need some life coaching, I will help with that too. I utilize an eclectic approach taking into account age, background, and the individual needs of each of my clients. In my 25+ years of experience I have assisted individuals, adolescents, couples, families when faced with challenges in journey of life.
I will provide a safe place, an open mind, a compassionate heart, and a listening ear. Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or in a crisis? I will provide an appointment within 24 hours if needed. Not in a crisis but just need some life coaching, I will help with that too. I utilize an eclectic approach taking into account age, background, and the individual needs of each of my clients. In my 25+ years of experience I have assisted individuals, adolescents, couples, families when faced with challenges in journey of life.
(630) 796-4448 View (630) 796-4448
Photo of Kristin M Anderson, Psychologist in Saint Charles, IL
Kristin M Anderson
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
I use an empathetic and empowering approach and favor interventions that focus on deepening your relationship with yourself, increasing your self-awareness and improving your relationships with others. I work with emotions, helping you to understand what, why and how to manage them and how to discover the wisdom they hold. I use a variety of strategies including cognitive/behavioral, psychodynamic, solution focused, dialectic behavior therapy and mindfulness meditation. I help you seek the sources of support available to you, both internal and external, and to create a balanced life that enables you to achieve your goals.
I use an empathetic and empowering approach and favor interventions that focus on deepening your relationship with yourself, increasing your self-awareness and improving your relationships with others. I work with emotions, helping you to understand what, why and how to manage them and how to discover the wisdom they hold. I use a variety of strategies including cognitive/behavioral, psychodynamic, solution focused, dialectic behavior therapy and mindfulness meditation. I help you seek the sources of support available to you, both internal and external, and to create a balanced life that enables you to achieve your goals.
(630) 984-6680 View (630) 984-6680
Photo of Christine S Kim, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Christine S Kim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174
Do you feel stuck, alone, confused and/or at a loss? You do not have to walk alone. Life presents various seasons of joys, struggles, grief, and other emotional challenges. I am committed and passionate about serving you regardless of your background so that you can experience greater insight, healing, hope, significance, and health in your life's journey. I seek to provide a safe, empathic, collaborative, and challenging space to explore all the issues, patterns, values, goals, and evidence-based solutions through various integrated modalities. I look forward to serving you so you can grow and flourish each day!
Do you feel stuck, alone, confused and/or at a loss? You do not have to walk alone. Life presents various seasons of joys, struggles, grief, and other emotional challenges. I am committed and passionate about serving you regardless of your background so that you can experience greater insight, healing, hope, significance, and health in your life's journey. I seek to provide a safe, empathic, collaborative, and challenging space to explore all the issues, patterns, values, goals, and evidence-based solutions through various integrated modalities. I look forward to serving you so you can grow and flourish each day!
(630) 761-5934 View (630) 761-5934

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Magdalena Perez, Psychologist in Saint Charles, IL
Magdalena Perez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60120
Dr. Magdalena Perez is a bilingual English-Spanish licensed clinical psychologist. Dr. Perez has over 15 years’ experience treating children, families and couples. She has treated a broad range of issues including anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, family conflict, marital distress, post-traumatic stress disorder, etc. Dr. Perez has received extensive training on providing culturally sensitive treatments and is published on Latinx mental health issues. Dr. Perez’s therapeutic style is warm, non-judgmental and transparent. She believes it is an honor to work with her clients and navigate through the heartaches of life.
Dr. Magdalena Perez is a bilingual English-Spanish licensed clinical psychologist. Dr. Perez has over 15 years’ experience treating children, families and couples. She has treated a broad range of issues including anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, family conflict, marital distress, post-traumatic stress disorder, etc. Dr. Perez has received extensive training on providing culturally sensitive treatments and is published on Latinx mental health issues. Dr. Perez’s therapeutic style is warm, non-judgmental and transparent. She believes it is an honor to work with her clients and navigate through the heartaches of life.
(224) 347-7304 View (224) 347-7304
Photo of Dan Phillips, Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Dan Phillips
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Geneva, IL 60134
My aim is to collaborate in the process of restoration of people lives—providing compassion in order to renew hope. Thus, helping each individual and/or family I work with to experience an increasingly enriched life. I have a vast breadth of experience, but specialize in addictions, and working with teens/young adults as well as their families.
My aim is to collaborate in the process of restoration of people lives—providing compassion in order to renew hope. Thus, helping each individual and/or family I work with to experience an increasingly enriched life. I have a vast breadth of experience, but specialize in addictions, and working with teens/young adults as well as their families.
(630) 315-0782 View (630) 315-0782
Photo of Health and Healing Therapy PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, IL
Health and Healing Therapy PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCPC, CADC, ICGC-II, BACC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bartlett, IL 60103
You are not alone. Whether you are unsure and struggling or ready to reach out for help for yourself, your child, teen or partner, we understand how difficult it is to have exhausted all your ideas and solutions. You may feel stuck, overwhelmed, unsure and upset about the unwanted things that have and are happening around you. We are here to help guide you and those you love to develop the insight, understanding, and skills necessary to make life better. All the stress, discomfort, and pain you now feel can reduce and life can be and feel less worrisome and stressful. You can be at peace, hopeful, healthy, and feel happy again.
You are not alone. Whether you are unsure and struggling or ready to reach out for help for yourself, your child, teen or partner, we understand how difficult it is to have exhausted all your ideas and solutions. You may feel stuck, overwhelmed, unsure and upset about the unwanted things that have and are happening around you. We are here to help guide you and those you love to develop the insight, understanding, and skills necessary to make life better. All the stress, discomfort, and pain you now feel can reduce and life can be and feel less worrisome and stressful. You can be at peace, hopeful, healthy, and feel happy again.
(331) 200-2325 View (331) 200-2325
Photo of Tiffany Wu, Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Tiffany Wu
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
As a mental health clinician, my goal is to help my clients explore themselves to make the changes in their lives that will allow them to have a happier future by their own definition. I believe that we all need someone to talk with - who will really listen and accept us as we are, without judgment. I provide my clients with a warm, nonjudgmental environment -a safe place to explore the issues that you want to discuss with me. I was trained as a plastic surgeon in China for 9 years. I also speak Mandarin and provide bilingual counseling services to my clients.
As a mental health clinician, my goal is to help my clients explore themselves to make the changes in their lives that will allow them to have a happier future by their own definition. I believe that we all need someone to talk with - who will really listen and accept us as we are, without judgment. I provide my clients with a warm, nonjudgmental environment -a safe place to explore the issues that you want to discuss with me. I was trained as a plastic surgeon in China for 9 years. I also speak Mandarin and provide bilingual counseling services to my clients.
(773) 570-2399 View (773) 570-2399
Photo of Scott Hamilton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Scott Hamilton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elgin, IL 60123
Looking to make a change in your life? I'm here to help. Therapy is a collaborative process and I am here to walk with you through life's struggles, transitions, and achievements. I use an integrative approach that draws on people's individual strengths using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Psychodynamic Theory. I have experience working with people navigating the challenges life brings them. I've treated individuals diagnosed with a range of disorder such as Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Looking to make a change in your life? I'm here to help. Therapy is a collaborative process and I am here to walk with you through life's struggles, transitions, and achievements. I use an integrative approach that draws on people's individual strengths using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Psychodynamic Theory. I have experience working with people navigating the challenges life brings them. I've treated individuals diagnosed with a range of disorder such as Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
(630) 349-5106 View (630) 349-5106

Online Therapists

Photo of Maira Iqbal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, IL
Maira Iqbal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60659  (Online Only)
I am a compassionate trauma-informed therapist that primarily works with individuals struggling with trauma/PTSD, ADHD, neurodivergent issues, relationship issues, chronic pain, physical disability, partner violence, substance abuse, anxiety, stress, depression, cultural identity, cultural/intergenerational conflicts, family conflicts, and other issues. As a daughter of South Asian immigrants, I have always been interested in working with traditionally overlooked communities. I have worked with individuals with dual diagnosis, domestic violence survivors, veterans, and LGBTQIA individuals.
I am a compassionate trauma-informed therapist that primarily works with individuals struggling with trauma/PTSD, ADHD, neurodivergent issues, relationship issues, chronic pain, physical disability, partner violence, substance abuse, anxiety, stress, depression, cultural identity, cultural/intergenerational conflicts, family conflicts, and other issues. As a daughter of South Asian immigrants, I have always been interested in working with traditionally overlooked communities. I have worked with individuals with dual diagnosis, domestic violence survivors, veterans, and LGBTQIA individuals.
(224) 529-3669 View (224) 529-3669
Photo of Chandrakant K. Shah, Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Chandrakant K. Shah
Counselor
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor. I have over 20 years of experience dealing with clients with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and ADHD. My counseling approach combined cognitive behavior therapy, person-centered therapy, and solution-focused therapy. I am a collaborative and goal-focused clinician who understands your unique needs and issues. With therapy, you will see the change in your environment in a different light and with personal satisfaction. If you are feeling depressed, anxious, lonely or not just yourself, and just need to talk feel free to contact me.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor. I have over 20 years of experience dealing with clients with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and ADHD. My counseling approach combined cognitive behavior therapy, person-centered therapy, and solution-focused therapy. I am a collaborative and goal-focused clinician who understands your unique needs and issues. With therapy, you will see the change in your environment in a different light and with personal satisfaction. If you are feeling depressed, anxious, lonely or not just yourself, and just need to talk feel free to contact me.
(773) 302-1725 View (773) 302-1725
Photo of Ray S Kim, Psychologist in Saint Charles, IL
Ray S Kim
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Specialty areas include depression, anxiety disorders, child and adolescent issues, relationship problems, substance abuse, and forensic issues.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I view my role as guiding individuals along a journey of self-discovery and growth. I assist people in gaining insight into their issues and finding solutions to their problems by providing direction, encouragement, support, and hope. In order for positive changes to occur, a person must begin to modify his or her dysfunctional thinking patterns and unhealthy behaviors. From a solution focused approach, I work with my clients in a collaborative relationship to strengthen their sense of self and improve their quality of life.
Specialty areas include depression, anxiety disorders, child and adolescent issues, relationship problems, substance abuse, and forensic issues.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I view my role as guiding individuals along a journey of self-discovery and growth. I assist people in gaining insight into their issues and finding solutions to their problems by providing direction, encouragement, support, and hope. In order for positive changes to occur, a person must begin to modify his or her dysfunctional thinking patterns and unhealthy behaviors. From a solution focused approach, I work with my clients in a collaborative relationship to strengthen their sense of self and improve their quality of life.
(847) 868-3606 View (847) 868-3606
Photo of Dr. Rae Mazzei, Psychologist in Saint Charles, IL
Dr. Rae Mazzei
Psychologist, PsyD, BCB
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
Are you struggling with trauma, addiction, anxiety, or a phobia? As a Health Psychologist, I will help you heal and thrive by relying on proven psychological therapies. I firmly believe in each individual's capacity to overcome obstacles, particularly when provided with the right support to achieve their goals. Fostering a supportive relationship, I am committed to assisting you in alleviating suffering, recovering from past traumas, fostering positive neurological changes, and enhancing overall well-being. Collaboratively, we will delve into the core of your concerns and work towards creating a more fulfilling life.
Are you struggling with trauma, addiction, anxiety, or a phobia? As a Health Psychologist, I will help you heal and thrive by relying on proven psychological therapies. I firmly believe in each individual's capacity to overcome obstacles, particularly when provided with the right support to achieve their goals. Fostering a supportive relationship, I am committed to assisting you in alleviating suffering, recovering from past traumas, fostering positive neurological changes, and enhancing overall well-being. Collaboratively, we will delve into the core of your concerns and work towards creating a more fulfilling life.
(480) 485-2101 View (480) 485-2101
Photo of Kei Izumi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Kei Izumi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, EMDR-C, CCPT-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in trauma and addiction recovery, certified as an EMDR therapist, Clinical Trauma Professional Level 2 (CCPTII), and IFS informed.
Is your heart heavy from trauma or affected by childhood trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, depression, anxiety, and dissociation? Are you feeling alone, and stuck in the past or abusive relationships? Do you feel unsafe or powerless even after the abuse is over? Are you feeling overwhelmed by struggles that use things to try to forget/numb? I understand how trauma leads to mental and behavioral challenges. Trauma history can stop you from living life as an authentic you as trauma may create fear-based reactions and self-defeated thoughts. I’m here to help you untangle some of your thoughts to find inner peace and heal wounded parts.
I am trained in trauma and addiction recovery, certified as an EMDR therapist, Clinical Trauma Professional Level 2 (CCPTII), and IFS informed.
Is your heart heavy from trauma or affected by childhood trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, depression, anxiety, and dissociation? Are you feeling alone, and stuck in the past or abusive relationships? Do you feel unsafe or powerless even after the abuse is over? Are you feeling overwhelmed by struggles that use things to try to forget/numb? I understand how trauma leads to mental and behavioral challenges. Trauma history can stop you from living life as an authentic you as trauma may create fear-based reactions and self-defeated thoughts. I’m here to help you untangle some of your thoughts to find inner peace and heal wounded parts.
(312) 820-9205 View (312) 820-9205
Photo of Nicole Yan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Charles, IL
Nicole Yan
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
My approach is rooted in the practices of mindfulness and self-compassion. I integrate a variety of mindfulness techniques to psychology to help people nurture their lives with kindness and awareness, and connect with their natural well-being. My practice is informed by cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic techniques, client-centered approach and Buddhist psychology. My clinical experience includes a range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, sexuality, addiction and grief.
My approach is rooted in the practices of mindfulness and self-compassion. I integrate a variety of mindfulness techniques to psychology to help people nurture their lives with kindness and awareness, and connect with their natural well-being. My practice is informed by cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic techniques, client-centered approach and Buddhist psychology. My clinical experience includes a range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships, sexuality, addiction and grief.
(847) 440-3635 View (847) 440-3635
Photo of April Moua, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
April Moua
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACP, LPC
Verified Verified
Grayslake, IL 60030  (Online Only)
I also have experience working with individuals struggling with addiction, grief, phase of life/adjustment problems, and a wide range of different mental health issues.
In order to see success in therapy, my client will need to show up, share, and put in some work. We will learn together to discover what your therapeutic needs are and strategize ways to improve your mental and emotional health.
I also have experience working with individuals struggling with addiction, grief, phase of life/adjustment problems, and a wide range of different mental health issues.
In order to see success in therapy, my client will need to show up, share, and put in some work. We will learn together to discover what your therapeutic needs are and strategize ways to improve your mental and emotional health.
(224) 385-0805 View (224) 385-0805
Photo of Sabrina Albert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, IL
Sabrina Albert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I have extensive experience with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, sexual and eating disorders and trauma.
Although there are times when we feel broken, hopeless, and unsure of the future, there is hope. As a therapist, I provide a safe and secure environment for you to process your vulnerabilities, expand your coping skills and begin to heal. We work together to create a personalized plan that works best for you. My approach emphasizes the unconscious mind, therapeutic interpretation and early childhood experiences. I help you better understand the unconscious forces which impact your current thoughts, feelings and behaviors.
I have extensive experience with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, sexual and eating disorders and trauma.
Although there are times when we feel broken, hopeless, and unsure of the future, there is hope. As a therapist, I provide a safe and secure environment for you to process your vulnerabilities, expand your coping skills and begin to heal. We work together to create a personalized plan that works best for you. My approach emphasizes the unconscious mind, therapeutic interpretation and early childhood experiences. I help you better understand the unconscious forces which impact your current thoughts, feelings and behaviors.
(331) 204-1924 View (331) 204-1924
Photo of Justin Sato, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Saint Charles, IL
Justin Sato
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MBA, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Areas I specialize in include suicidality, substance & process addiction (gambling), kink, finances, life transitions, & relationship difficulties.
All of us yearn for a sense of belonging, and it is human to feel lonely due to issues we may be facing in life. Feeling alone can have a detrimental impact not only to our mental/emotional health, but also physical health. I'm here to support you in your mental health journey and working towards a better quality of life. I strive for social justice and am attuned to the impacts and influences of society and culture. I approach therapy from a trauma-informed and harm reduction lens, meaning I’m sensitive to the past experiences that have shaped you into who you are today while working in a collaborative approach.
Areas I specialize in include suicidality, substance & process addiction (gambling), kink, finances, life transitions, & relationship difficulties.
All of us yearn for a sense of belonging, and it is human to feel lonely due to issues we may be facing in life. Feeling alone can have a detrimental impact not only to our mental/emotional health, but also physical health. I'm here to support you in your mental health journey and working towards a better quality of life. I strive for social justice and am attuned to the impacts and influences of society and culture. I approach therapy from a trauma-informed and harm reduction lens, meaning I’m sensitive to the past experiences that have shaped you into who you are today while working in a collaborative approach.
View
Photo of Joseph Harrington, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Saint Charles, IL
Joseph Harrington
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605
My areas of focus include working with adult individuals around topics such as anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship issues, life transitions, identity development, and men’s issues. I have a particular interest and experience in working with men and culturally diverse clients. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and continually striving to move beyond allyship towards being a genuine accomplice for marginalized communities.
My areas of focus include working with adult individuals around topics such as anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship issues, life transitions, identity development, and men’s issues. I have a particular interest and experience in working with men and culturally diverse clients. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming and continually striving to move beyond allyship towards being a genuine accomplice for marginalized communities.
(312) 262-6350 View (312) 262-6350
Photo of Sukhee Kim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, IL
Sukhee Kim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Sukhee (She, her, hers) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). She provides therapy to individuals ages 18+ to help them grow from a variety of life challenges; stress, major life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, women’s issues, addiction, and other general adjustment issues. She is a bilingual therapist, providing counseling services in both English and Korean.
Sukhee (She, her, hers) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). She provides therapy to individuals ages 18+ to help them grow from a variety of life challenges; stress, major life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, women’s issues, addiction, and other general adjustment issues. She is a bilingual therapist, providing counseling services in both English and Korean.
(847) 380-8776 View (847) 380-8776
Photo of Jenny Choi LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Charles, IL
Jenny Choi LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I have specific credentials and experiences relative to today's complicated situations, including; family genograms, marital/intimate and workplace relationships and conflicts, sexual identity, racial equality/intolerance, cross-cultural stigmas, abuse/battering, bullying, alcohol and substance abuse, legal/court intervention, play therapy, neurofeedback, adolescence/young adult guidance, and grief counseling.
I passionately and compassionately care for the emotional well-being and behavioral health of my individual, couple, family and group clients for over 20 years. I draw upon unique combinations of clinical principals and innovative methods to best support all people within our vastly diverse community. I draw upon my deep understanding of culture, age, gender, race, class, family structure, and the type of or the lack of a support system can have on most all situations. I always provide a totally non-judgmental, safe, and confidential space to help my clients deal with their problems, issues or crisis.
I have specific credentials and experiences relative to today's complicated situations, including; family genograms, marital/intimate and workplace relationships and conflicts, sexual identity, racial equality/intolerance, cross-cultural stigmas, abuse/battering, bullying, alcohol and substance abuse, legal/court intervention, play therapy, neurofeedback, adolescence/young adult guidance, and grief counseling.
I passionately and compassionately care for the emotional well-being and behavioral health of my individual, couple, family and group clients for over 20 years. I draw upon unique combinations of clinical principals and innovative methods to best support all people within our vastly diverse community. I draw upon my deep understanding of culture, age, gender, race, class, family structure, and the type of or the lack of a support system can have on most all situations. I always provide a totally non-judgmental, safe, and confidential space to help my clients deal with their problems, issues or crisis.
(917) 563-4037 View (917) 563-4037

See more therapy options for Saint Charles

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.