Addiction Therapists in Apex, NC

Photo of Meredith Hanes, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meredith Hanes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
I am passionate about working with adults facing addiction, life transitions, forming healthier relationships- with oneself as well as with others and those needing to address traumatic experiences.
I'm currently able to place clients on a wait list with availability opening up in October 2024. If you are feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about life changes I'd like to help. If you feel like you’ve hit a stuck place and don’t know what to do next, you’ve come to the right place. Thank you for taking the time to consider me as your therapist. Finding the right person to share your story with can be a tough decision- let me share with you a bit about myself to help make your decision easier!
I am passionate about working with adults facing addiction, life transitions, forming healthier relationships- with oneself as well as with others and those needing to address traumatic experiences.
I'm currently able to place clients on a wait list with availability opening up in October 2024. If you are feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about life changes I'd like to help. If you feel like you’ve hit a stuck place and don’t know what to do next, you’ve come to the right place. Thank you for taking the time to consider me as your therapist. Finding the right person to share your story with can be a tough decision- let me share with you a bit about myself to help make your decision easier!
(919) 276-8251 View (919) 276-8251
Photo of Vivian Magariño-Gomez - Joyful Art Therapy LLC, MA, NBCT, ATR-P, LCMHCA, Art Therapist
Joyful Art Therapy LLC
Art Therapist, MA, NBCT, ATR-P, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
I am Vivian Magarino-Gomez and have a M.A. in Art Therapy/Transpersonal Counseling Psychology-which offers clients the best of both eastern and western psychology. With 12 years of mental health experience and 16 years as a public school educator, I offer individual, group, and family therapy for clients age 2-60+ with needs ranging from abuse, trauma, ADHD, gang involvement, PTSD, depression, anxiety, addiction, emerging sexuality issues, and neurodivergence. My past working in emergency services, school-based therapy, day treatment, group homes, and inpatient, fuels my holistic client-centered approach in outpatient art therapy.
I am Vivian Magarino-Gomez and have a M.A. in Art Therapy/Transpersonal Counseling Psychology-which offers clients the best of both eastern and western psychology. With 12 years of mental health experience and 16 years as a public school educator, I offer individual, group, and family therapy for clients age 2-60+ with needs ranging from abuse, trauma, ADHD, gang involvement, PTSD, depression, anxiety, addiction, emerging sexuality issues, and neurodivergence. My past working in emergency services, school-based therapy, day treatment, group homes, and inpatient, fuels my holistic client-centered approach in outpatient art therapy.
(919) 343-5479 View (919) 343-5479
Photo of Carlos Lopez, MS, LPC, LCAS-A, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carlos Lopez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27523
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate in the state of North Carolina. With over 8 years of experience in the mental health and addiction field, I have been trained in a variety of treatment modalities to assist individuals and their families. I earned a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Walden University in Minnesota and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the Inter-American University of Puerto Rico, San German campus. I treat mental health issues including depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, grief/loss, family issues, addiction and substance abuse.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate in the state of North Carolina. With over 8 years of experience in the mental health and addiction field, I have been trained in a variety of treatment modalities to assist individuals and their families. I earned a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Walden University in Minnesota and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the Inter-American University of Puerto Rico, San German campus. I treat mental health issues including depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, grief/loss, family issues, addiction and substance abuse.
(984) 205-7403 View (984) 205-7403
Photo of Rachelle Heller, LCSW, LCAS-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachelle Heller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502  (Online Only)
Telehealth appointments available this week! As we head into the holiday season and gear up for 2024 you might be looking for a little extra support. I am currently accepting a few more new patients and appreciate you pausing to read more about me. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Psychotherapist with experience in treating children, adolescents, & adults with relationship issues, substance abuse, trauma, personality disorders, anxiety & depression.
Telehealth appointments available this week! As we head into the holiday season and gear up for 2024 you might be looking for a little extra support. I am currently accepting a few more new patients and appreciate you pausing to read more about me. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Psychotherapist with experience in treating children, adolescents, & adults with relationship issues, substance abuse, trauma, personality disorders, anxiety & depression.
(919) 823-3851 View (919) 823-3851
Photo of Scott Spiers - Counseling Supervision Services, MA, LCAS, CCS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Counseling Supervision Services
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502  (Online Only)
The biggest advantage for my practice is that I am trained as an addictions counselor, with a masters degree in addiction psychology.
My ideal client isn't sure about their relationship with substances. Most people I work with tend to use alcohol, weed, and other drugs to treat their anxiety, depression, and trauma. Others use more than they're comfortable with and want to moderate their use. Lastly, many people I've worked with over the past 18 years have had negative experiences in treatment and felt misunderstood or even mistreated by a profession that's supposed to help
The biggest advantage for my practice is that I am trained as an addictions counselor, with a masters degree in addiction psychology.
My ideal client isn't sure about their relationship with substances. Most people I work with tend to use alcohol, weed, and other drugs to treat their anxiety, depression, and trauma. Others use more than they're comfortable with and want to moderate their use. Lastly, many people I've worked with over the past 18 years have had negative experiences in treatment and felt misunderstood or even mistreated by a profession that's supposed to help
(984) 249-2218 View (984) 249-2218
Photo of Amelia Kelley, PhD, MS, LCMHC, ATR,  RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amelia Kelley
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, LCMHC, ATR, RYT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Sometimes life can feel hopeless and the answers are hard to come by. As your therapist, I tune in to what interests and empowers you. This means using; empirically supported methods such as, art therapy, meditation, EMDR, Reiki, DBT, CBT, Yoga therapy, body-brain therapies and exploring skills you already possess to improve your life. At Kelley Counseling & Wellness we meet with young children, adolescents, teens, couples and families. I specialize in treating teens, adults and couples who suffer from; addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, depression, LGBTQ+, grief and loss and eating disorders.
Sometimes life can feel hopeless and the answers are hard to come by. As your therapist, I tune in to what interests and empowers you. This means using; empirically supported methods such as, art therapy, meditation, EMDR, Reiki, DBT, CBT, Yoga therapy, body-brain therapies and exploring skills you already possess to improve your life. At Kelley Counseling & Wellness we meet with young children, adolescents, teens, couples and families. I specialize in treating teens, adults and couples who suffer from; addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, depression, LGBTQ+, grief and loss and eating disorders.
(919) 794-8350 View (919) 794-8350
Photo of Adrianne Robinson, LCSW, LCAS, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adrianne Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
I am a solution-focused therapist, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist and a Registered Yoga Teacher offering therapy and coaching for individuals and families in a warm and welcoming environment. I specialize in anxiety disorders, mindfulness, trauma, PTSD, codependency, adult children of alcoholic issues, life coaching and addiction recovery with clients just like you throughout Raleigh and Wake County.
I am a solution-focused therapist, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist and a Registered Yoga Teacher offering therapy and coaching for individuals and families in a warm and welcoming environment. I specialize in anxiety disorders, mindfulness, trauma, PTSD, codependency, adult children of alcoholic issues, life coaching and addiction recovery with clients just like you throughout Raleigh and Wake County.
(919) 344-0972 View (919) 344-0972
Photo of Justin Ravizee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Justin Ravizee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27523
Over the past 8 years I have gained experience in a wealth of areas that impact individuals and families. I strive to provide a non-judgmental and safe space to assist clients with their growth. Treatment specialization includes therapy for anxiety, stress, anger, domestic violence, addiction, divorce, and parenting.
Over the past 8 years I have gained experience in a wealth of areas that impact individuals and families. I strive to provide a non-judgmental and safe space to assist clients with their growth. Treatment specialization includes therapy for anxiety, stress, anger, domestic violence, addiction, divorce, and parenting.
(919) 948-2659 View (919) 948-2659
Photo of Cheri Coats, MA, LCAS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cheri Coats
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCAS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27523
I specialize in substance use and addictive behaviors.
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults who are going through transition/change, need extra support, or are dealing with on-going struggles. I see therapy as collaborative between therapist and client. I strive to get to know clients on an individual level including your strengths, challenges, goals, and beliefs. My goal is to help you identify aspects of your life that you would like to change and help you to use the strengths you already possess to reach your life goals. I find that clients appreciate that I am compassionate but direct.
I specialize in substance use and addictive behaviors.
I enjoy working with adolescents and adults who are going through transition/change, need extra support, or are dealing with on-going struggles. I see therapy as collaborative between therapist and client. I strive to get to know clients on an individual level including your strengths, challenges, goals, and beliefs. My goal is to help you identify aspects of your life that you would like to change and help you to use the strengths you already possess to reach your life goals. I find that clients appreciate that I am compassionate but direct.
(919) 694-6889 View (919) 694-6889
Photo of Kajal Patel, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kajal Patel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
I mostly have experience working with adults including Veterans, who have addiction and other mental health concerns.
Accepting new clients in-person and via telehealth in NC. Telehealth only in SC. Everything you need to heal is already within you, and my work with you will help build motivation, awareness, confidence, and understanding that nurtures these strengths that exist, but are difficult to see when external and internal challenges are faced in life. Not everyone is the same and not one particular treatment model will be the best fit. Therefore, I will meet you where you are at on this journey towards healing, and provide quality of care that will be person centered and tailored to your specific needs.
I mostly have experience working with adults including Veterans, who have addiction and other mental health concerns.
Accepting new clients in-person and via telehealth in NC. Telehealth only in SC. Everything you need to heal is already within you, and my work with you will help build motivation, awareness, confidence, and understanding that nurtures these strengths that exist, but are difficult to see when external and internal challenges are faced in life. Not everyone is the same and not one particular treatment model will be the best fit. Therefore, I will meet you where you are at on this journey towards healing, and provide quality of care that will be person centered and tailored to your specific needs.
(919) 459-7862 View (919) 459-7862
Photo of Tammy Holcomb, LCMHCS, CEDS, NBCCH
Tammy Holcomb
LCMHCS, CEDS, NBCCH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
I am a strong believer in the power of healing circles to help people work through issues related to trauma, addiction, and eating disorders.
Tired of facing this alone? Need someone to trust to listen without placing judgment? So often, we try to handle things alone for too long. By the time we ask for help, the problem feels out of control. I want to help you to figure this out and get out from under whatever burden or decision is on you. Whether it is the past, work stress, grief over a loss, regret, anxiety, depression, or a behavior interfering with your life goals, I will work with you to try to figure this out.
I am a strong believer in the power of healing circles to help people work through issues related to trauma, addiction, and eating disorders.
Tired of facing this alone? Need someone to trust to listen without placing judgment? So often, we try to handle things alone for too long. By the time we ask for help, the problem feels out of control. I want to help you to figure this out and get out from under whatever burden or decision is on you. Whether it is the past, work stress, grief over a loss, regret, anxiety, depression, or a behavior interfering with your life goals, I will work with you to try to figure this out.
(919) 323-4002 View (919) 323-4002
Photo of Jenny Schuyler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenny Schuyler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
I work with adults for a wide range of issues including- but not limited to: depression, anxiety, struggles with divorce, family conflict, peer struggles, self-esteem, trauma/PTSD, bipolar, agoraphobia, relationship issues, grief, anger, substance abuse and general life issues.
Seeking therapy takes a lot of courage, and reaching out can be intimidating. We are here to help and guide you through the process and make it as easy as possible. I believe that you deserve the opportunity to be well and feel empowered. Although you are not alone, your situation if specific to you- your feelings, reactions, and circumstances. I provide a safe environment that offers support and reflection without judgement. You are an individual, and you will have an individualized plan according to your needs and goals for therapy. I believe that every individual has the ability to be healthy, happy and successful.
I work with adults for a wide range of issues including- but not limited to: depression, anxiety, struggles with divorce, family conflict, peer struggles, self-esteem, trauma/PTSD, bipolar, agoraphobia, relationship issues, grief, anger, substance abuse and general life issues.
Seeking therapy takes a lot of courage, and reaching out can be intimidating. We are here to help and guide you through the process and make it as easy as possible. I believe that you deserve the opportunity to be well and feel empowered. Although you are not alone, your situation if specific to you- your feelings, reactions, and circumstances. I provide a safe environment that offers support and reflection without judgement. You are an individual, and you will have an individualized plan according to your needs and goals for therapy. I believe that every individual has the ability to be healthy, happy and successful.
(919) 434-6398 View (919) 434-6398
Photo of Antonia Leonore Verhine, LCSW, LCASA, CIMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Antonia Leonore Verhine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCASA, CIMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
I am a licensed clinical social worker, addiction specialist associate, and certified integrative mental health provider who takes a holistic and trauma-informed approach to treating mental health and substance abuse disorders. Most recently I have completed training to become a certified ketamine-assisted psychotherapy provider. I have experience working with clients on a variety of issues, such as anxiety and panic disorders, depression, personal growth and self-esteem, general relationship challenges (family, friends, co-workers), and addiction and substance misuse.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, addiction specialist associate, and certified integrative mental health provider who takes a holistic and trauma-informed approach to treating mental health and substance abuse disorders. Most recently I have completed training to become a certified ketamine-assisted psychotherapy provider. I have experience working with clients on a variety of issues, such as anxiety and panic disorders, depression, personal growth and self-esteem, general relationship challenges (family, friends, co-workers), and addiction and substance misuse.
(984) 368-4697 View (984) 368-4697
Photo of Debra Bergman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debra Bergman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience working with individuals with issues like anxiety, depression, impulse control, addiction, chronic and life-threatening illness, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship/family problems, stress management, and job stress. I combine a variety of modalities, perspectives, and techniques including client-centered, cognitive behavioral, existential, humanistic, mindfulness, solution-focused, somatic, and trauma-informed care. My mission is to help you manage stress and find more balance in your life.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience working with individuals with issues like anxiety, depression, impulse control, addiction, chronic and life-threatening illness, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship/family problems, stress management, and job stress. I combine a variety of modalities, perspectives, and techniques including client-centered, cognitive behavioral, existential, humanistic, mindfulness, solution-focused, somatic, and trauma-informed care. My mission is to help you manage stress and find more balance in your life.
(336) 530-1569 View (336) 530-1569
Photo of Cole Solomon, LCMHC-A, NCC, Counselor
Cole Solomon
Counselor, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Accepting New Patients! I have just joined Brinkley Brown Mental Wellness and have openings right away! I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship/marriage issues, substance use ( addiction), trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), grief, life transitions, etc.
Accepting New Patients! I have just joined Brinkley Brown Mental Wellness and have openings right away! I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship/marriage issues, substance use ( addiction), trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), grief, life transitions, etc.
(919) 367-1169 View (919) 367-1169
Photo of Susan Sutton, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Sutton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
I also have my provisional substance abuse license to help with drugs, alcohol and video game usage.
Is your family constantly on edge because of the daily arguing? Are you the parent of a teen that does not understand you? Do you feel that to get in touch with your teen you need to text or Facebook chat? Are you constantly fighting with your spouse over money, discipline and jeolousy? As a middle school counselor I have immersed myself into the lives of adolescents and know how to speak their language. As a parent of two teens I understand the challenges of being a parent and spouse. Are you ready for a positive change?
I also have my provisional substance abuse license to help with drugs, alcohol and video game usage.
Is your family constantly on edge because of the daily arguing? Are you the parent of a teen that does not understand you? Do you feel that to get in touch with your teen you need to text or Facebook chat? Are you constantly fighting with your spouse over money, discipline and jeolousy? As a middle school counselor I have immersed myself into the lives of adolescents and know how to speak their language. As a parent of two teens I understand the challenges of being a parent and spouse. Are you ready for a positive change?
(919) 237-9971 View (919) 237-9971
Photo of Tiffany Burnette, MT-BC, CFLC, CFLE, BCC
Tiffany Burnette
MT-BC, CFLC, CFLE, BCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502  (Online Only)
Do you want help on your recovery journey? Do you want to manage an addiction with a bit of creative help? Is it possible to reduce harm or prevent harm from substance use? Can you imagine leading a life using a reduced amount of substances than you do now? If not, do you want to imagine it?
Do you want help on your recovery journey? Do you want to manage an addiction with a bit of creative help? Is it possible to reduce harm or prevent harm from substance use? Can you imagine leading a life using a reduced amount of substances than you do now? If not, do you want to imagine it?
View
Photo of Laurin Oxendine-Myers, LCMHC , LPC
Laurin Oxendine-Myers
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC , LPC
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27523  (Online Only)
I have experience with depression, substance abuse, family/relationship issues and anxiety.
I have assisted both individuals and families for over 11 years in various settings to overcome the challenges of divorce, substance abuse, life and family transitions. Together we will build strong communication skills and a healthy foundation to begin a new path in your life! Together we are able to explore past behaviors and patterns that may impact you moving forward. I look forward to creating a plan for a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
I have experience with depression, substance abuse, family/relationship issues and anxiety.
I have assisted both individuals and families for over 11 years in various settings to overcome the challenges of divorce, substance abuse, life and family transitions. Together we will build strong communication skills and a healthy foundation to begin a new path in your life! Together we are able to explore past behaviors and patterns that may impact you moving forward. I look forward to creating a plan for a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
(919) 823-5765 View (919) 823-5765
Photo of Ashley Phelps - NC Center for Counseling & Psychological Services, LPA, HSP-PA, Psychological Associate
NC Center for Counseling & Psychological Services
Psychological Associate, LPA, HSP-PA
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
We have Licensed Psychologists, Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialists, and Licensed Psychological Associates.
In our practice we work with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with a variety of issues. We have experience conducting a variety of comprehensive psychological, neuropsychological, cognitive, and substance use evaluations. We have experience conducting psychological testing of patients of all ages, including but are not limited to: Personality, Diagnostic Clarification, Intelligence, Achievement, Learning Disorders, Pervasive Developmental Disorders (e.g., Autism), and ADHD testing.
We have Licensed Psychologists, Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialists, and Licensed Psychological Associates.
In our practice we work with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with a variety of issues. We have experience conducting a variety of comprehensive psychological, neuropsychological, cognitive, and substance use evaluations. We have experience conducting psychological testing of patients of all ages, including but are not limited to: Personality, Diagnostic Clarification, Intelligence, Achievement, Learning Disorders, Pervasive Developmental Disorders (e.g., Autism), and ADHD testing.
(919) 371-5878 View (919) 371-5878
Photo of Wake Counseling Mediation - Wake Counseling & Mediation, PLLC, MS, NCC, LPCS
Wake Counseling & Mediation, PLLC
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MS, NCC, LPCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
We have specialists who treat Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADD/ADHD, Trauma, Substance use/abuse and relationship issues.
Welcome to Wake Counseling & Mediation! We provide the professional guidance you need to resolve wide variety of life issues. Our therapists are experienced & well trained to listen, guide, and respectfully challenge you. We have a team of passionate clinicians who has the expertise in different areas related to mental health & family issues. We are guiding individuals, couples and families make needed lifestyle adjustments that resulted in healthier coping skills, improved communication, and happiness. We also couples & families with adjustment, parenting issues, marital issues and substance use/abuse related issues.
We have specialists who treat Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADD/ADHD, Trauma, Substance use/abuse and relationship issues.
Welcome to Wake Counseling & Mediation! We provide the professional guidance you need to resolve wide variety of life issues. Our therapists are experienced & well trained to listen, guide, and respectfully challenge you. We have a team of passionate clinicians who has the expertise in different areas related to mental health & family issues. We are guiding individuals, couples and families make needed lifestyle adjustments that resulted in healthier coping skills, improved communication, and happiness. We also couples & families with adjustment, parenting issues, marital issues and substance use/abuse related issues.
(919) 647-4600 x1 View (919) 647-4600 x1
1
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.