Photo of Solomon Zinn Hallal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Solomon Zinn Hallal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
Being alive in 2022 is wild! are you ISO someone to help make meaning of this novel time and place? let’s sit in the strangeness of this moment in time together, feeling through the sad and challenging bits until we can get back into the present, together. i love to talk and hear about gender, expression and relationships, and to learn how experiencing addiction and trauma have made you the beautiful and resilient creature you are today! im a sober body posi fat white southern queer non-binary intersectional feminist polyamorist parent to adopted kids..i bet we have something in common!
Being alive in 2022 is wild! are you ISO someone to help make meaning of this novel time and place? let’s sit in the strangeness of this moment in time together, feeling through the sad and challenging bits until we can get back into the present, together. i love to talk and hear about gender, expression and relationships, and to learn how experiencing addiction and trauma have made you the beautiful and resilient creature you are today! im a sober body posi fat white southern queer non-binary intersectional feminist polyamorist parent to adopted kids..i bet we have something in common!
(802) 255-8683 View (802) 255-8683
Photo of Miriam Ervin, Counselor in Boston, MA
Miriam Ervin
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with experience in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, as well as relationship and family issues. I believe that when self-awareness is paired with motivation for healthy action, individuals and families can realize their fullest potential. My approach focuses on achieving this insight and motivation through establishing trust, building positive self esteem, and teaching healthy skills for coping. I have a holistic perspective and treatment approach, and believe that all elements of health and wellness need to be addressed in order to experience balance and a fulfilling life.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with experience in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, as well as relationship and family issues. I believe that when self-awareness is paired with motivation for healthy action, individuals and families can realize their fullest potential. My approach focuses on achieving this insight and motivation through establishing trust, building positive self esteem, and teaching healthy skills for coping. I have a holistic perspective and treatment approach, and believe that all elements of health and wellness need to be addressed in order to experience balance and a fulfilling life.
(617) 658-4305 View (617) 658-4305
Photo of Benjamin L. Thompson, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Boston, MA
Benjamin L. Thompson
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, LADC-1
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02108  (Online Only)
I have experience working with and treating all types of addiction, including both substance and behavioral addictions. I also have considerable experience with and understanding of mental illnesses, including especially depressive, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. I tend to have the most success treating those for whom other approaches have not been effective. My approach is best fitted for those who feel utterly broken and desperate for change.
I have experience working with and treating all types of addiction, including both substance and behavioral addictions. I also have considerable experience with and understanding of mental illnesses, including especially depressive, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. I tend to have the most success treating those for whom other approaches have not been effective. My approach is best fitted for those who feel utterly broken and desperate for change.
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Photo of Jennifer Harrison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Jennifer Harrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
I am a bicoastal therapist specializing in trauma and addiction. With over 25 years of experience in the field, I bring a winding journey of knowledge to my practice from inpatient mental health, residential, school and outpatient clinical settings and substance abuse programs. My approach is holistic, integrative and tailored to the individual. I look at the whole person, not through a lens of pathology but from a place of being in one's environment and how the body, mind and spirit are involved in growth and recovery. I often work well with clients who are not satisfied with standard or traditional talk therapy.
I am a bicoastal therapist specializing in trauma and addiction. With over 25 years of experience in the field, I bring a winding journey of knowledge to my practice from inpatient mental health, residential, school and outpatient clinical settings and substance abuse programs. My approach is holistic, integrative and tailored to the individual. I look at the whole person, not through a lens of pathology but from a place of being in one's environment and how the body, mind and spirit are involved in growth and recovery. I often work well with clients who are not satisfied with standard or traditional talk therapy.
(508) 257-7924 View (508) 257-7924
Photo of Ronda Jones D Tobey, Counselor in Boston, MA
Ronda Jones D Tobey
Counselor, LHMC, LCSW, LADC, CADC, SAP
Not Verified Not Verified
Boston, MA 02101
Ronda D Jones Tobey, LMHC, LADC, CADC, SAP, MAC specializes in Individual and Family metal health and addiction counseling including drug, alcohol and gaming addiction.
Ronda D Jones Tobey, LMHC, LADC, CADC, SAP, MAC believes in a Healthy Person/Family not just the basic therapy.
Ronda D Jones Tobey, LMHC, LADC, CADC, SAP, MAC specializes in Individual and Family metal health and addiction counseling including drug, alcohol and gaming addiction.
Ronda D Jones Tobey, LMHC, LADC, CADC, SAP, MAC believes in a Healthy Person/Family not just the basic therapy.
(401) 415-6282 View (401) 415-6282
Photo of Jamie Sullivan, Mental Health Counselor in Boston, MA
Jamie Sullivan
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
I have a lot of experience with substance abuse, depressive and anxiety disorders, PTSD, and ADHD, both through inpatient, outpatient, and community-based treatment.
If you are looking for a warm, welcoming place to discuss any issue, thought, or problem you've been dealing with without judgment or closed-mindedness, then I could be a great fit for you! I have a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology, and I'm licensed as a mental health counselor in Massachusetts. I have a very friendly, laid-back personality and am always eager to help and use a lot of humor in my general approach; however, I am also very comfortable working through serious and difficult subjects in a calm, supportive way. I'm a very happy, positive person and can always find a silver lining in almost any situation!
I have a lot of experience with substance abuse, depressive and anxiety disorders, PTSD, and ADHD, both through inpatient, outpatient, and community-based treatment.
If you are looking for a warm, welcoming place to discuss any issue, thought, or problem you've been dealing with without judgment or closed-mindedness, then I could be a great fit for you! I have a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology, and I'm licensed as a mental health counselor in Massachusetts. I have a very friendly, laid-back personality and am always eager to help and use a lot of humor in my general approach; however, I am also very comfortable working through serious and difficult subjects in a calm, supportive way. I'm a very happy, positive person and can always find a silver lining in almost any situation!
(617) 648-9583 View (617) 648-9583
Photo of Out for Good Behavioral Services, Inc. , Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Boston, MA
Out for Good Behavioral Services, Inc.
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MEd, LADC-1, LCDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02121
I am a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor located in Dorchester, Massachusetts. I have worked in substance abuse for 8 years by helping men and women fight their addictions. As someone who has personally witnessed the struggles of battling drug addiction, I have come to understand that “the change is in the thinking...not the doing.” This means that any changes we want to make must begin with the way we think about things. Our thoughts impact our actions. Thoughts may be deeply impacted by past traumas, anxiety, the environment in which you were raised, depression, or relationships, and may prevent us from being our best selves.
I am a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor located in Dorchester, Massachusetts. I have worked in substance abuse for 8 years by helping men and women fight their addictions. As someone who has personally witnessed the struggles of battling drug addiction, I have come to understand that “the change is in the thinking...not the doing.” This means that any changes we want to make must begin with the way we think about things. Our thoughts impact our actions. Thoughts may be deeply impacted by past traumas, anxiety, the environment in which you were raised, depression, or relationships, and may prevent us from being our best selves.
(857) 763-3439 View (857) 763-3439
Photo of Inspire Recovery, Registered Social Worker Intern in Boston, MA
Inspire Recovery
Registered Social Worker Intern, MSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Boston, MA 02130
I offer LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy for substance use issues and mental health issues.
Jaki Neering, MSW, takes a loving & progressive approach when working with the LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual + community. She graduated from Barry University in 2016 with a Master in Social Work. Jaki believes in the power of trauma-informed interventions, which recognizes human vulnerability but focuses on finding strengths, resources, and capacity for healing and recovery, by promoting factors that will enhance a person's resilience. She has a passion for empowering marginalized populations, and she is devoted to serving the LGBTQIA+ population suffering with alcoholism, drug addiction & mental health issues. Jaki assists individuals in finding their voice, and advocates for self-expression. Additionally, Jaki believes in the transformation of recovery, and is passionate about helping others find their truth.
I offer LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy for substance use issues and mental health issues.
Jaki Neering, MSW, takes a loving & progressive approach when working with the LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual + community. She graduated from Barry University in 2016 with a Master in Social Work. Jaki believes in the power of trauma-informed interventions, which recognizes human vulnerability but focuses on finding strengths, resources, and capacity for healing and recovery, by promoting factors that will enhance a person's resilience. She has a passion for empowering marginalized populations, and she is devoted to serving the LGBTQIA+ population suffering with alcoholism, drug addiction & mental health issues. Jaki assists individuals in finding their voice, and advocates for self-expression. Additionally, Jaki believes in the transformation of recovery, and is passionate about helping others find their truth.
(561) 475-4729 View (561) 475-4729
Photo of Kelly Christian, Counselor in Boston, MA
Kelly Christian
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
My background focuses on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-based Expressive Arts, Grief and Loss, Substance use Eating Disorders, Anxiety and Adjustment related disorders, Depression, and Mood disorders.
I am continually amazed by the authentic human-to-human interaction that therapy embodies. I do not believe that I know more than anyone else; rather I believe therapy is a joint effort. I will help guide the process, but together we will create a therapeutic process that fits your unique needs and strengths. It is an empowering feeling to be a part of your own path of changing.
My background focuses on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-based Expressive Arts, Grief and Loss, Substance use Eating Disorders, Anxiety and Adjustment related disorders, Depression, and Mood disorders.
I am continually amazed by the authentic human-to-human interaction that therapy embodies. I do not believe that I know more than anyone else; rather I believe therapy is a joint effort. I will help guide the process, but together we will create a therapeutic process that fits your unique needs and strengths. It is an empowering feeling to be a part of your own path of changing.
(617) 546-4869 View (617) 546-4869
Photo of Alec J Lotstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Alec J Lotstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02130  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping adults with stress, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, substance use, and other addictions. I also bring warmth and acceptance in supporting clients with the various pressures of life, such as work, relationships, family, school, health, and finances. Whether you are looking for a place to vent your frustrations, someone to bounce ideas off of, or specific tools and strategies to manage symptoms or difficult situations, I am here to listen, to support you with empathy and compassion, and to collaborate together to build upon your strengths.
I specialize in helping adults with stress, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, substance use, and other addictions. I also bring warmth and acceptance in supporting clients with the various pressures of life, such as work, relationships, family, school, health, and finances. Whether you are looking for a place to vent your frustrations, someone to bounce ideas off of, or specific tools and strategies to manage symptoms or difficult situations, I am here to listen, to support you with empathy and compassion, and to collaborate together to build upon your strengths.
(508) 906-7220 View (508) 906-7220
Photo of Connor Kellett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Connor Kellett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02108
Are you looking for a change to increase your happiness? Whether it’s something specific— mental health, substance abuse, interactions with a particular person, a way in which you cope with stress, or feelings toward some life event. Or is it a larger transformation, looking to increase your self-awareness, or to achieve more truth and meaning in your relationships or career? Whatever your reason, finding the appropriate support is the most important step in your journey.
Are you looking for a change to increase your happiness? Whether it’s something specific— mental health, substance abuse, interactions with a particular person, a way in which you cope with stress, or feelings toward some life event. Or is it a larger transformation, looking to increase your self-awareness, or to achieve more truth and meaning in your relationships or career? Whatever your reason, finding the appropriate support is the most important step in your journey.
(617) 826-8746 View (617) 826-8746
Photo of Olivia Trieber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Olivia Trieber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02118  (Online Only)
I work with a variety of individuals using a strength-based perspective, acknowledging that each person is the expert in their own life. I specialize in substance use counseling, and working to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. As a therapist, I work together with my clients to foster a safe space where trust and rapport can be cultivated
I work with a variety of individuals using a strength-based perspective, acknowledging that each person is the expert in their own life. I specialize in substance use counseling, and working to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. As a therapist, I work together with my clients to foster a safe space where trust and rapport can be cultivated
(617) 855-7849 View (617) 855-7849
Photo of Stepfan Jones in Boston, MA
Stepfan Jones
LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with all types of individuals in various walks of life. I have worked with individuals with depression, anxiety, and anger issues to name a few. Working to help individuals cope with life's challenges. I have also spent time in the school system working with adolescents with school issues and life challenges, and college students as a spiritual counselor and life coach. My latest journey has been working with individuals who wrestle with substance use challenges. Also offering life coaching in GA and FL (Private pay only)
I enjoy working with all types of individuals in various walks of life. I have worked with individuals with depression, anxiety, and anger issues to name a few. Working to help individuals cope with life's challenges. I have also spent time in the school system working with adolescents with school issues and life challenges, and college students as a spiritual counselor and life coach. My latest journey has been working with individuals who wrestle with substance use challenges. Also offering life coaching in GA and FL (Private pay only)
(339) 201-3459 View (339) 201-3459
Photo of Caroline Mary Corrigan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Caroline Mary Corrigan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02127
Everyone will eventually come upon an issue that they are struggling to process. Whether it is addiction, loss, depression, anxiety, trauma or recently being diagnosed with a serious illness, we all sometimes need the help of a professional to navigate personal challenges in life. Often we are hoping to facilitate change in our journey and are unsure on where to begin. I am a licensed independent clinical social worker and a certified alcohol and drug counselor. I specialize in helping those whose primary goal is to overcome life obstacles, recover from mental health issues, dual diagnosis and have the willingness to do so.
Everyone will eventually come upon an issue that they are struggling to process. Whether it is addiction, loss, depression, anxiety, trauma or recently being diagnosed with a serious illness, we all sometimes need the help of a professional to navigate personal challenges in life. Often we are hoping to facilitate change in our journey and are unsure on where to begin. I am a licensed independent clinical social worker and a certified alcohol and drug counselor. I specialize in helping those whose primary goal is to overcome life obstacles, recover from mental health issues, dual diagnosis and have the willingness to do so.
(774) 208-0631 View (774) 208-0631
Photo of Charles Sexton-Diranian, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Boston, MA
Charles Sexton-Diranian
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02298
GH Recovery Solutions is a private drug and alcohol rehab providing intervention and treatment services to those suffering from substance use, and individuals with co-occurring mental health issues. We provide individualized treatment in a small, gender-specific environment. Also, GH Recovery offers one of the only comprehensive vocational programs in New England. At GH Recovery, evidence-based practice is applied along with creative and cutting-edge interventions. We provide extraordinary individualized care and enable our clients to gain insight into their underlying factors driving addictive behaviors and unhealthy coping skills.
GH Recovery Solutions is a private drug and alcohol rehab providing intervention and treatment services to those suffering from substance use, and individuals with co-occurring mental health issues. We provide individualized treatment in a small, gender-specific environment. Also, GH Recovery offers one of the only comprehensive vocational programs in New England. At GH Recovery, evidence-based practice is applied along with creative and cutting-edge interventions. We provide extraordinary individualized care and enable our clients to gain insight into their underlying factors driving addictive behaviors and unhealthy coping skills.
(603) 691-3294 View (603) 691-3294
Photo of " The Hope Carrier", Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Boston, MA
" The Hope Carrier"
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LMHC-A, CAGS, LADC I, LCDP, CADC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02103
Recovery, Hopes & Dreams helps you define and take a clear path to a happier, healthier life. RHD offers person-centered, quality addiction treatment services in a supportive environment, through individualized goal- driven treatment. The philosophy is based on the understanding that addiction is a disease that affects the entire person: encompassing the body, mind, and spirit. Because of this, treatment must be individualized and must address all of these areas to be successful in the recovery of the whole person. You can relax with us. We’ve seen it all and have helped people get through it
Recovery, Hopes & Dreams helps you define and take a clear path to a happier, healthier life. RHD offers person-centered, quality addiction treatment services in a supportive environment, through individualized goal- driven treatment. The philosophy is based on the understanding that addiction is a disease that affects the entire person: encompassing the body, mind, and spirit. Because of this, treatment must be individualized and must address all of these areas to be successful in the recovery of the whole person. You can relax with us. We’ve seen it all and have helped people get through it
(508) 252-8834 View (508) 252-8834
Photo of Bryan Daniel Koesler, Psychologist in Boston, MA
Bryan Daniel Koesler
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating addiction; however, a lot of my experience is in working with patients with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and around grief and loss.
At the moment I am providing teletherapy for those interested in this approach. I am licensed in both Florida and Massachusetts and I am currently accepting new patients from either state. I provide therapy using an eclectic and integrative style that best suits the person’s needs. I take a collaborative, strength-based, non-judgmental, and client-centered approach throughout the work with my clients and when deciding upon which tool sets to use in the therapy.
I specialize in treating addiction; however, a lot of my experience is in working with patients with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and around grief and loss.
At the moment I am providing teletherapy for those interested in this approach. I am licensed in both Florida and Massachusetts and I am currently accepting new patients from either state. I provide therapy using an eclectic and integrative style that best suits the person’s needs. I take a collaborative, strength-based, non-judgmental, and client-centered approach throughout the work with my clients and when deciding upon which tool sets to use in the therapy.
(813) 592-8085 View (813) 592-8085
Photo of Elizabeth Black, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Elizabeth Black
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02104  (Online Only)
You've heard the saying "walk a mile in someone else's shoes", right? I have walked a lot of miles in a lot of shoes. My life experiences have taught me patience, understanding and empathy. And these skills help me create a comfortable space where you can explore the issues impacting your life. Experience working with alternative love dynamics, i.e. ENM/open/poly and kink, the treatment of substance use disorder and veteran's. Also experienced in working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety and difficulty with life changes. Open to working with any adult motivated to change. Licensed in LA, TX and MA.
You've heard the saying "walk a mile in someone else's shoes", right? I have walked a lot of miles in a lot of shoes. My life experiences have taught me patience, understanding and empathy. And these skills help me create a comfortable space where you can explore the issues impacting your life. Experience working with alternative love dynamics, i.e. ENM/open/poly and kink, the treatment of substance use disorder and veteran's. Also experienced in working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety and difficulty with life changes. Open to working with any adult motivated to change. Licensed in LA, TX and MA.
(504) 420-3980 View (504) 420-3980
Photo of Rachel Holmes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Rachel Holmes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02135
As a clinician, I aim to be a point of guidance, trust, and support for the communities and individuals who need it most. I work with individuals to help cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, self esteem, substance use, and more. I work with a wide range of clients, from adolescents to adults, to help them move through life's challenges with understanding, compassion, and the confidence they need. I utilize techniques including CBT and Motivational Interviewing, while keeping a focus on harm reduction and trauma informed care. I hope to provide a warm, non-judgmental and empathetic space for all the clients I work with.
As a clinician, I aim to be a point of guidance, trust, and support for the communities and individuals who need it most. I work with individuals to help cope with anxiety, depression, trauma, self esteem, substance use, and more. I work with a wide range of clients, from adolescents to adults, to help them move through life's challenges with understanding, compassion, and the confidence they need. I utilize techniques including CBT and Motivational Interviewing, while keeping a focus on harm reduction and trauma informed care. I hope to provide a warm, non-judgmental and empathetic space for all the clients I work with.
(617) 917-2918 View (617) 917-2918
Photo of Melisa P. Sheldon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Melisa P. Sheldon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02108
I believe in providing a safe and welcoming space for adults who may be struggling with relationship issues, recovery from addiction, anxiety, grief and bereavement, or general life stage changes.
Hello and welcome! My name is Melisa and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who for over 18 years has worked with adults in various life stages. Those who struggle as the "Sandwich Generation," or with anxiety, life stage changes associated with aging (25 years of hospice experience and Certified in Gerontology), and 12 Step Recovery support for recovering alcoholics and their families and others. I utilize an inquisitive approach, trust-building, as well providing proven successful interventions and strategies that have proven helpful in having us discover together how to feel better after just the first session.
I believe in providing a safe and welcoming space for adults who may be struggling with relationship issues, recovery from addiction, anxiety, grief and bereavement, or general life stage changes.
Hello and welcome! My name is Melisa and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who for over 18 years has worked with adults in various life stages. Those who struggle as the "Sandwich Generation," or with anxiety, life stage changes associated with aging (25 years of hospice experience and Certified in Gerontology), and 12 Step Recovery support for recovering alcoholics and their families and others. I utilize an inquisitive approach, trust-building, as well providing proven successful interventions and strategies that have proven helpful in having us discover together how to feel better after just the first session.
(772) 837-6227 View (772) 837-6227
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.