Addiction Therapists in Missouri

Photo of Lucas Dieckhaus, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lucas Dieckhaus
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, MO 63090
I help survivors overcome past traumas in order to help them begin to heal. I started my career working in the world of non-profit mental health. It was during this time that I realized that we in the mental health community were often treating the wrong thing, our clients tended to be struggling with Trauma more than anything, but we’d be focused on substance use, depression, and anxiety. This would lead to stagnation, due to the real issues not being addressed. Due to this I focus on the treatment of core issues. I focus on what is holding someone back, and not just the symptoms that are caused by these bigger problems.
I help survivors overcome past traumas in order to help them begin to heal. I started my career working in the world of non-profit mental health. It was during this time that I realized that we in the mental health community were often treating the wrong thing, our clients tended to be struggling with Trauma more than anything, but we’d be focused on substance use, depression, and anxiety. This would lead to stagnation, due to the real issues not being addressed. Due to this I focus on the treatment of core issues. I focus on what is holding someone back, and not just the symptoms that are caused by these bigger problems.
(636) 242-5413 View (636) 242-5413
Photo of Anthony F. Pickens, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anthony F. Pickens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63112
I am a trauma informed licensed Christain counselor with experience working with addiction, depression, anxiety, shame, life transitions, homelessness, spiritual formation and career concerns.
I work with families and individuals ages 12 and up who are seeking support with daily life challenges related to emotional, relational, spiritual or career concerns.
I am a trauma informed licensed Christain counselor with experience working with addiction, depression, anxiety, shame, life transitions, homelessness, spiritual formation and career concerns.
I work with families and individuals ages 12 and up who are seeking support with daily life challenges related to emotional, relational, spiritual or career concerns.
(314) 912-3085 View (314) 912-3085
Photo of Debbie Pullin, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Debbie Pullin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63141  (Online Only)
Have you experienced trauma? Do you feel anxious, depressed or out of control? Do you want to make changes but are uncertain about how to go about making those changes? Start feeling better TODAY by starting your healing journey! I specialize in abuse, trauma and those who are actively recovering from addiction. I am passionate about helping you transform your life. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, unwanted thoughts, abuse, an addiction, or going through a sad transition; please know that there is always hope to turn things around. Whatever issues you are facing, I would be honored to work with you!
Have you experienced trauma? Do you feel anxious, depressed or out of control? Do you want to make changes but are uncertain about how to go about making those changes? Start feeling better TODAY by starting your healing journey! I specialize in abuse, trauma and those who are actively recovering from addiction. I am passionate about helping you transform your life. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, unwanted thoughts, abuse, an addiction, or going through a sad transition; please know that there is always hope to turn things around. Whatever issues you are facing, I would be honored to work with you!
(314) 287-5466 View (314) 287-5466
Photo of Janice Mills, NCC, LPC, CRAADC, CAMS-1, SQP-R, Counselor
Janice Mills
Counselor, NCC, LPC, CRAADC, CAMS-1, SQP-R
Verified Verified
Troy, MO 63379
We all can feel trapped, paralyzed or stuck from time to time. Whether it's a relationship, school, career, adoption, challenges with trauma, depression, anxiety, or substance use, we can find ourselves repeating the same patterns. I work with individuals, families and groups to help them understand the patterns of their lives and how to move beyond the challenges. My focus is in building families and changing lives. I believe that the major factor in successful therapy is developing a relationship that feels comfortable and safe. Trust is essential and I emphasize the importance of openness and cooperation.
We all can feel trapped, paralyzed or stuck from time to time. Whether it's a relationship, school, career, adoption, challenges with trauma, depression, anxiety, or substance use, we can find ourselves repeating the same patterns. I work with individuals, families and groups to help them understand the patterns of their lives and how to move beyond the challenges. My focus is in building families and changing lives. I believe that the major factor in successful therapy is developing a relationship that feels comfortable and safe. Trust is essential and I emphasize the importance of openness and cooperation.
(636) 306-3871 View (636) 306-3871
Photo of Geno Martino, MSW, LMSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Geno Martino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Brentwood, MO 63144
It may be transitioning from one phase of life to another, caught in the tight grip of addiction, dealing with unresolved trauma, addressing identity challenges or one of the countless other reasons you are not where you want to be.
I'm a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and maintain credentials specializing in the treatment of alcohol and substance use disorder. I understand the insidious nature of the disease of addiction and have successfully assist individuals and families to identify their strengths, gain awareness of their needs and foster their journey of healthy self-care and recovery. Asking for help is a sign of strength and courage to take responsibility for what is not working. I provide a sacred space to look at the hard stuff while being supported and challenged to adapt healthy and transformative interventions.
It may be transitioning from one phase of life to another, caught in the tight grip of addiction, dealing with unresolved trauma, addressing identity challenges or one of the countless other reasons you are not where you want to be.
I'm a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and maintain credentials specializing in the treatment of alcohol and substance use disorder. I understand the insidious nature of the disease of addiction and have successfully assist individuals and families to identify their strengths, gain awareness of their needs and foster their journey of healthy self-care and recovery. Asking for help is a sign of strength and courage to take responsibility for what is not working. I provide a sacred space to look at the hard stuff while being supported and challenged to adapt healthy and transformative interventions.
(314) 310-5243 View (314) 310-5243
Photo of Theresa Pace, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Theresa Pace
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63141
Are you struggling with anxiety, codependency, and/or depression? Are you having a hard time navigating your loved one's substance use disorder or their recovery journey? We believe in creating an open, safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate therapeutic environment that is informed by structure to help you make the changes necessary to build the life that you want.
Are you struggling with anxiety, codependency, and/or depression? Are you having a hard time navigating your loved one's substance use disorder or their recovery journey? We believe in creating an open, safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate therapeutic environment that is informed by structure to help you make the changes necessary to build the life that you want.
(314) 207-2935 View (314) 207-2935
Photo of Catherine Kluge, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Catherine Kluge
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63141
Are you tired of battling anxiety, depression, and codependency? Are you struggling to navigate your loved one's substance use disorder? New Dawn Family Healing is here for you. We believe in creating an open, safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate therapeutic environment that is informed by structure to help you make the changes necessary to build the life that you want.
Are you tired of battling anxiety, depression, and codependency? Are you struggling to navigate your loved one's substance use disorder? New Dawn Family Healing is here for you. We believe in creating an open, safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate therapeutic environment that is informed by structure to help you make the changes necessary to build the life that you want.
(314) 207-0135 View (314) 207-0135
Photo of Tina Pennington, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tina Pennington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nixa, MO 65714
I specialize in the areas of addiction & recovery codependency issues.
I am focused on providing high-quality counseling services in a comfortable and safe environment where clients can explore their potential & grow in healthy ways. I base my practice on the belief that my clients' needs are of the upmost importance. I will work with you on identifying your emotional, spiritual & physical needs & dicovering healthy ways to meet them. I work with adults & adolescents. I conduct individual, marital, pre-marital and family sessions. I am able to file with many insurance companies. I hope to have the opportunity to work with you!
I specialize in the areas of addiction & recovery codependency issues.
I am focused on providing high-quality counseling services in a comfortable and safe environment where clients can explore their potential & grow in healthy ways. I base my practice on the belief that my clients' needs are of the upmost importance. I will work with you on identifying your emotional, spiritual & physical needs & dicovering healthy ways to meet them. I work with adults & adolescents. I conduct individual, marital, pre-marital and family sessions. I am able to file with many insurance companies. I hope to have the opportunity to work with you!
(417) 212-0935 View (417) 212-0935
Photo of Shanna Brende, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shanna Brende
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Springfield, MO 65807  (Online Only)
Shanna Brende, MA, LPC, has been working in the mental health field as well as working with clients struggling with addiction. She is a licensed therapist and has over 25 years of experience working with clients dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, LBGQT, and addiction. She uses a cognitive behavioral approach when dealing with clients and is excellent at rapport building. She has lived and worked in Kansas City for over 19 years, having moved here from Texas where she worked a licensed therapist as well.
Shanna Brende, MA, LPC, has been working in the mental health field as well as working with clients struggling with addiction. She is a licensed therapist and has over 25 years of experience working with clients dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, LBGQT, and addiction. She uses a cognitive behavioral approach when dealing with clients and is excellent at rapport building. She has lived and worked in Kansas City for over 19 years, having moved here from Texas where she worked a licensed therapist as well.
(417) 428-8913 View (417) 428-8913
Photo of Stephanie Devereux - Devereux Counseling, MA, LPC, CMHIMP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Devereux Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63303
Are you struggling to find peace in your life? We all need support once in a while. My goal is to help you live a more balanced, happy, healthy life! We will work together to identify goals and strategies to help you initiate positive change in your life.I am truly grateful for the opportunity to help individuals reach their goals and I would be honored to support you on your journey! I am experienced in working with individuals in a variety of capacities including helping them learn to manage and overcome anxiety, depression, addiction, improve self-esteem, communication and overall well-being & overall connectedness in life!
Are you struggling to find peace in your life? We all need support once in a while. My goal is to help you live a more balanced, happy, healthy life! We will work together to identify goals and strategies to help you initiate positive change in your life.I am truly grateful for the opportunity to help individuals reach their goals and I would be honored to support you on your journey! I am experienced in working with individuals in a variety of capacities including helping them learn to manage and overcome anxiety, depression, addiction, improve self-esteem, communication and overall well-being & overall connectedness in life!
(636) 422-5290 View (636) 422-5290
Photo of Jack Sampson, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Jack Sampson
Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
I have 10 years of behavioral health experience with a focus of treating addiction, anxiety, depression and other mood disorders.
50% off initial session with nights and weekends available. Are you feeling overwhelmed by life? Are relationship challenges weighing you down? Do you have concerns that you might be using "a little too much" alcohol or other drugs to cope with it all? Using a warm, individually tailored approach, I offer you a space to process what's on your mind. We'll work together to help you find ways to cope with life, improve your relationships and restore your sense of joy in activities. I formerly served as the clinical supervisor at a substance use treatment center in Kansas City, but I'm now solely providing private individual counseling.
I have 10 years of behavioral health experience with a focus of treating addiction, anxiety, depression and other mood disorders.
50% off initial session with nights and weekends available. Are you feeling overwhelmed by life? Are relationship challenges weighing you down? Do you have concerns that you might be using "a little too much" alcohol or other drugs to cope with it all? Using a warm, individually tailored approach, I offer you a space to process what's on your mind. We'll work together to help you find ways to cope with life, improve your relationships and restore your sense of joy in activities. I formerly served as the clinical supervisor at a substance use treatment center in Kansas City, but I'm now solely providing private individual counseling.
(816) 839-9680 View (816) 839-9680
Photo of Anna Segovia Schild, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Segovia Schild
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63303
I am an EMDR Certified Therapist with specialized EMDR trainings in addiction, attachment, adoption and non-verbal trauma.
I believe people are more than their diagnosis. Yes, a diagnosis is a tool but it is not the big picture. I come from a place of curiosity and wonder, wanting to know my clients on a deeper level so that I can help them navigate this world. For example, PTSD is a big diagnosis that is thrown around; yet, it doesn't paint the full picture. It doesn't reflect someone's experiences, triggers, how this is impacting their relationships, family history, the strengths they possess etc. Adolescents are my passion however, I also enjoy and work closely with families and adults.
I am an EMDR Certified Therapist with specialized EMDR trainings in addiction, attachment, adoption and non-verbal trauma.
I believe people are more than their diagnosis. Yes, a diagnosis is a tool but it is not the big picture. I come from a place of curiosity and wonder, wanting to know my clients on a deeper level so that I can help them navigate this world. For example, PTSD is a big diagnosis that is thrown around; yet, it doesn't paint the full picture. It doesn't reflect someone's experiences, triggers, how this is impacting their relationships, family history, the strengths they possess etc. Adolescents are my passion however, I also enjoy and work closely with families and adults.
(636) 249-1795 View (636) 249-1795
Photo of Sheena Kirkendoll, LSCSW, LCAC , CRAADC, SAP, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheena Kirkendoll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCAC , CRAADC, SAP, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Liberty, MO 64068
My specialties include anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar mood disorder, complex trauma, substance use disorder, military, and first responders.
Therapy is a powerful form of treatment that can be used to make personal improvements while gaining awareness and creating change. I believe we are all working through struggles and obstacles in our lives. Sometimes a little guidance is needed to get to the place we want to be and work to achieve happiness. As a licensed therapist, I am here to not only listen but assist in creating change and making improvements in the lives of others. I strive to create a calm, safe atmosphere and use a non-judgmental, modern approach when providing services.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar mood disorder, complex trauma, substance use disorder, military, and first responders.
Therapy is a powerful form of treatment that can be used to make personal improvements while gaining awareness and creating change. I believe we are all working through struggles and obstacles in our lives. Sometimes a little guidance is needed to get to the place we want to be and work to achieve happiness. As a licensed therapist, I am here to not only listen but assist in creating change and making improvements in the lives of others. I strive to create a calm, safe atmosphere and use a non-judgmental, modern approach when providing services.
(816) 429-3927 View (816) 429-3927
Photo of Keith Puellman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Keith Puellman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
O Fallon, MO 63366
I began working in the counseling field 25 years ago. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help them heal from the difficulties of life and develop their full potential. I spent the first 7 of those years working in the addiction field. That experience gave me knowledge, insight, and compassion for individuals struggling with addictions. I also have a passion for helping couples develop strong, healthy, loving, and trusting marriages. As an adoptive father I understand the issues and challenges faced by adoptive parents. I'm experienced in treating depression, anxiety, anger, grief, and issues related to codependency.
I began working in the counseling field 25 years ago. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help them heal from the difficulties of life and develop their full potential. I spent the first 7 of those years working in the addiction field. That experience gave me knowledge, insight, and compassion for individuals struggling with addictions. I also have a passion for helping couples develop strong, healthy, loving, and trusting marriages. As an adoptive father I understand the issues and challenges faced by adoptive parents. I'm experienced in treating depression, anxiety, anger, grief, and issues related to codependency.
(636) 271-4138 View (636) 271-4138
Photo of Cindy Burlingame, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cindy Burlingame
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Belton, MO 64012  (Online Only)
She is a Marriage and Family Therapist with experience across many spectrums. She graduated from Park University in 2012 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Psychology. She went on to graduate from Vanguard University in 2016 with a Master's of Science degree in Clinical Psychology. She started her clinical training at Hope University Counseling Center where she worked with many couples and individuals who were struggling with marital stress, identity and self-esteem issues, pornography addiction, and sexual trauma.
She is a Marriage and Family Therapist with experience across many spectrums. She graduated from Park University in 2012 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Psychology. She went on to graduate from Vanguard University in 2016 with a Master's of Science degree in Clinical Psychology. She started her clinical training at Hope University Counseling Center where she worked with many couples and individuals who were struggling with marital stress, identity and self-esteem issues, pornography addiction, and sexual trauma.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Lori Eby, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Eby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, MO 65807
Are you frustrated in a relationship? Are you exhausted from the emotional roller coaster you are experiencing but don't know to make it stop? You do not have to navigate the struggle alone. An outsider's support and feedback can lead to new possibilities for change and hope. I want to hear your story and help you discover that life can be good even when difficult. I connect well with clients as I bring experience, knowledge, and true care into sessions in a direct but supportive way. There is peace and hope to be found. Relationships can improve. Anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction do not have to control your life.
Are you frustrated in a relationship? Are you exhausted from the emotional roller coaster you are experiencing but don't know to make it stop? You do not have to navigate the struggle alone. An outsider's support and feedback can lead to new possibilities for change and hope. I want to hear your story and help you discover that life can be good even when difficult. I connect well with clients as I bring experience, knowledge, and true care into sessions in a direct but supportive way. There is peace and hope to be found. Relationships can improve. Anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction do not have to control your life.
(417) 212-5696 View (417) 212-5696
Photo of Nancy Jenkins, MA, CIT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nancy Jenkins
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CIT
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64063
I can help by listening and providing support, insights, guidance, and skills to help you meet any challenges you may face: family, relationship, or job issues; anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, PTSD, chronic illness, or divorce.
I greet you with acceptance and an open heart. Life can throw surprises or maybe you've hit a roadblock and realize something has to change? Counseling provides a safe and confidential space to share worry, fear, sadness, anger, hopes and dreams, and then learn tools to deal with any challenge in your life. Call me now if you seek a path to the happy and serene life you deserve.
I can help by listening and providing support, insights, guidance, and skills to help you meet any challenges you may face: family, relationship, or job issues; anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, PTSD, chronic illness, or divorce.
I greet you with acceptance and an open heart. Life can throw surprises or maybe you've hit a roadblock and realize something has to change? Counseling provides a safe and confidential space to share worry, fear, sadness, anger, hopes and dreams, and then learn tools to deal with any challenge in your life. Call me now if you seek a path to the happy and serene life you deserve.
(816) 727-3602 View (816) 727-3602
Photo of Michael J DiBernardo, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael J DiBernardo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63124
This could include person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma informed therapy, substance abuse treatment, and solution-oriented therapy.
My therapy practice focuses on helping clients cope with and overcome challenges through providing the guidance and tools to move forward in life. My goal is for clients to feel that they have improved self-esteem, improved mood, motivation to work and participate in daily responsibilities, achieve their goals, form and strengthen their relationships, and integrate the past into the present. I have experience with children and adolescents, families in need of a change or a new set of skills, chronic mental illness inclusive of mood disorders, persistent anxiety and depression, and substance abuse disorders.
This could include person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma informed therapy, substance abuse treatment, and solution-oriented therapy.
My therapy practice focuses on helping clients cope with and overcome challenges through providing the guidance and tools to move forward in life. My goal is for clients to feel that they have improved self-esteem, improved mood, motivation to work and participate in daily responsibilities, achieve their goals, form and strengthen their relationships, and integrate the past into the present. I have experience with children and adolescents, families in need of a change or a new set of skills, chronic mental illness inclusive of mood disorders, persistent anxiety and depression, and substance abuse disorders.
(314) 219-8883 View (314) 219-8883
Photo of Mary Kay Houck, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Kay Houck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buffalo, MO 65622
I have over 30 years experience working with addictions and mental health issues.
I provide individual, family and group outpatient counseling for people of all ages. I work with people who may be struggling with relationship issues, anxiety issues, substance abuse and addiction and behavioral addictions, bullying, conflict resolution, grief loss issues, trauma and PTSD, anger management, adult and childhood ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders. I also assist children and families with parent-child relational issues and behavior modification skill development. I have worked within the school system, inpatient and outpatient settings, in homes, and emergency rooms. I have trained youth to help peers on a local suicide hotline.
I have over 30 years experience working with addictions and mental health issues.
I provide individual, family and group outpatient counseling for people of all ages. I work with people who may be struggling with relationship issues, anxiety issues, substance abuse and addiction and behavioral addictions, bullying, conflict resolution, grief loss issues, trauma and PTSD, anger management, adult and childhood ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders. I also assist children and families with parent-child relational issues and behavior modification skill development. I have worked within the school system, inpatient and outpatient settings, in homes, and emergency rooms. I have trained youth to help peers on a local suicide hotline.
(417) 424-5782 View (417) 424-5782
Photo of Patricia Ann Heiser - Heiser Counseling and Healing Arts, ATR, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heiser Counseling and Healing Arts
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kirkwood, MO 63122
Other models used to treat trauma and related disorders (performance, relationship, depression, anxiety, substance use, mood disorders) include psycho-education, IFS, CBT and MI.
I enjoy helping people increase self-awareness, heal and improve their life and relationships. I use a variety of approaches, including client centered, strength based, focused on goals set by each client. I work with Individuals, Couples using EMDR, Intimacy from the Inside-Out, dealing with PTSD, trauma, anxiety, attachments issues, relationships, addictions, and mortality. I enjoy working with individuals, partners, couples and families. I believe in the power of focused healing, increased awareness, compassion, hope and love.
Other models used to treat trauma and related disorders (performance, relationship, depression, anxiety, substance use, mood disorders) include psycho-education, IFS, CBT and MI.
I enjoy helping people increase self-awareness, heal and improve their life and relationships. I use a variety of approaches, including client centered, strength based, focused on goals set by each client. I work with Individuals, Couples using EMDR, Intimacy from the Inside-Out, dealing with PTSD, trauma, anxiety, attachments issues, relationships, addictions, and mortality. I enjoy working with individuals, partners, couples and families. I believe in the power of focused healing, increased awareness, compassion, hope and love.
(314) 947-5556 View (314) 947-5556
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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.