Photo of Brian D Wener, Psychologist in New Hampshire
Brian D Wener
Psychologist, BA, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Practicing 40 years in Seacoast Tri-state area. Portsmouth Family Institute faculty member, former Guest Lecturer, UNH Grad. Studies in Marriage/Family Therapy. PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING for ADHD- child/adult; Presurgical evaluations; Court-Legal-School evaluations. APA Board Certified in Assessment/Treatment of Substance Use Disorders ADDICTION services to families. Individuals/couples/families undergoing life transitions/divorce. I am a former GAL. I provide psychological assessment/treatment to clients of GALs. I gladly work with ages 14 +.
Practicing 40 years in Seacoast Tri-state area. Portsmouth Family Institute faculty member, former Guest Lecturer, UNH Grad. Studies in Marriage/Family Therapy. PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING for ADHD- child/adult; Presurgical evaluations; Court-Legal-School evaluations. APA Board Certified in Assessment/Treatment of Substance Use Disorders ADDICTION services to families. Individuals/couples/families undergoing life transitions/divorce. I am a former GAL. I provide psychological assessment/treatment to clients of GALs. I gladly work with ages 14 +.
(603) 769-4162 View (603) 769-4162
Photo of Sondra Cullen, Marriage & Family Therapist in New Hampshire
Sondra Cullen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brookline, NH 03033  (Online Only)
A few experiences in my life have positively impacted my connection with others. A majority of my experience has been working in dual diagnosis facilities, which has provided me with considerable insight into mental health and substance abuse. Secondly, I worked as a special education teacher, gaining insight from both the parent’s and child’s perspective. Lastly, as the spouse of an active duty and now veteran sailor, I am deeply connected to the veterans community.
A few experiences in my life have positively impacted my connection with others. A majority of my experience has been working in dual diagnosis facilities, which has provided me with considerable insight into mental health and substance abuse. Secondly, I worked as a special education teacher, gaining insight from both the parent’s and child’s perspective. Lastly, as the spouse of an active duty and now veteran sailor, I am deeply connected to the veterans community.
(248) 560-7363 View (248) 560-7363
Photo of danielle delloiacono, Art Therapist in New Hampshire
danielle delloiacono
Art Therapist, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Concord, NH 03303  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, unexpected life events, or addiction? Let me guide you with my open-minded approach, whether you prefer talk therapy or using the art therapy approach, it's up to you. I have over a decade of experience working in the mental health field. We can work together on healthy coping skills, improving boundaries, processing grief, and learning ways to express yourself in these unsettling times. When attending session you can gain a stronger self-esteem, self-worth, and healthy communication skills. Online sessions only.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, unexpected life events, or addiction? Let me guide you with my open-minded approach, whether you prefer talk therapy or using the art therapy approach, it's up to you. I have over a decade of experience working in the mental health field. We can work together on healthy coping skills, improving boundaries, processing grief, and learning ways to express yourself in these unsettling times. When attending session you can gain a stronger self-esteem, self-worth, and healthy communication skills. Online sessions only.
(978) 619-8620 View (978) 619-8620
Photo of Thomas J. Cormican, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Hampshire
Thomas J. Cormican
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Rochester, NH 03839
I have extensive experience with DBT, addiction, depression and anxiety and attachment disorders as well as people going through life adjustments.
Let me start off by saying that I am not a big fan of this picture. This being said, therapy is not magic, but people helping clients to regain perspective so they can either tap into their strengths again, or learn new skills to enhance their lives. I have been able to support people in accomplishing this for quite a long time now and fully believe my work is simply changing things up enough so you can see your strength and then put it back into action
I have extensive experience with DBT, addiction, depression and anxiety and attachment disorders as well as people going through life adjustments.
Let me start off by saying that I am not a big fan of this picture. This being said, therapy is not magic, but people helping clients to regain perspective so they can either tap into their strengths again, or learn new skills to enhance their lives. I have been able to support people in accomplishing this for quite a long time now and fully believe my work is simply changing things up enough so you can see your strength and then put it back into action
(603) 709-4315 View (603) 709-4315
Photo of Matthew Kobs in New Hampshire
Matthew Kobs
PsyD
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03101
In addition, my strong foundation in Motivational Interviewing enables me to provide a safe and empathic place for those struggling with substance misuse to explore their commitment to behavioral change.
Everyone has a story to tell, a thread that consciously or unconsciously guides his or her behavior, wants, and motivations. In my practice, I try to help people who have become unhappy with their current pattern of living and have begun to think about building a clearer understanding of who they are and who they feel they would like to "be." I work to build a mutual appreciation for each other's story. Having received extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral and Analytical Theory, I am able to provide an eclectic approach to working with a wide variety of clients' needs.
In addition, my strong foundation in Motivational Interviewing enables me to provide a safe and empathic place for those struggling with substance misuse to explore their commitment to behavioral change.
Everyone has a story to tell, a thread that consciously or unconsciously guides his or her behavior, wants, and motivations. In my practice, I try to help people who have become unhappy with their current pattern of living and have begun to think about building a clearer understanding of who they are and who they feel they would like to "be." I work to build a mutual appreciation for each other's story. Having received extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral and Analytical Theory, I am able to provide an eclectic approach to working with a wide variety of clients' needs.
(855) 805-4668 View (855) 805-4668
Photo of White Birch Recovery Services, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in New Hampshire
White Birch Recovery Services
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LICSW, MLADC
Verified Verified
Dover, NH 03820
I am honored to be able to provide clinical services to those suffering from Substance Use Disorders. My ideal in practice is to form a strong, collaborative, therapeutic relationship with my clients. My style is empathetic, compassionate, and direct. I believe that by exploring thoughts, emotions, and maladaptive behavior patterns, we can become more insightful and understanding of ourselves. Through this vulnerable process we are able to create life-long change that will increase self esteem and the ability to form close interpersonal relationships with those we care about.
I am honored to be able to provide clinical services to those suffering from Substance Use Disorders. My ideal in practice is to form a strong, collaborative, therapeutic relationship with my clients. My style is empathetic, compassionate, and direct. I believe that by exploring thoughts, emotions, and maladaptive behavior patterns, we can become more insightful and understanding of ourselves. Through this vulnerable process we are able to create life-long change that will increase self esteem and the ability to form close interpersonal relationships with those we care about.
(603) 369-4225 View (603) 369-4225
Photo of Linda M Brewer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Hampshire
Linda M Brewer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MLADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Meredith, NH 03253
I work with clients to address an array of issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, substance misuse, self-esteem, grief/loss, life transitions, chronic illness and Employee Assistance Program Services.
I utilize evidence based practices that emphasize changing maladaptive ways of thinking and behaving as key factors in reducing stress, anxiety, depression and self-defeating behavior patterns. I am dually licensed as an Independent Clinical Social Worker and Masters Level Alcohol and other Drug Counselor. I am an approved Clinical Supervisor for individuals seeking licensure through the New Hampshire Board of Mental Health and the NH Board of Alcohol and other Drug Use Professionals for LADC/MLADC licensure.
I work with clients to address an array of issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, substance misuse, self-esteem, grief/loss, life transitions, chronic illness and Employee Assistance Program Services.
I utilize evidence based practices that emphasize changing maladaptive ways of thinking and behaving as key factors in reducing stress, anxiety, depression and self-defeating behavior patterns. I am dually licensed as an Independent Clinical Social Worker and Masters Level Alcohol and other Drug Counselor. I am an approved Clinical Supervisor for individuals seeking licensure through the New Hampshire Board of Mental Health and the NH Board of Alcohol and other Drug Use Professionals for LADC/MLADC licensure.
(603) 764-7584 View (603) 764-7584
Photo of Dottie Moffitt, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in New Hampshire
Dottie Moffitt
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, BA, LADC
Verified Verified
New London, NH 03257  (Online Only)
Dottie is a licensed drug and alcohol counselor with over a decade of experience in outpatient and inpatient treatment, as well as within the department of corrections. Dottie's tele-health practice focuses on substance use dependence and co-occurring disorders. Dottie approaches her clients with empathy, humor and compassion as she works with clients to uncover the why of substance use, which then allows for a focus on increasing self-worth, love of self, healing from trauma and any co-occurring diagnosis.
Dottie is a licensed drug and alcohol counselor with over a decade of experience in outpatient and inpatient treatment, as well as within the department of corrections. Dottie's tele-health practice focuses on substance use dependence and co-occurring disorders. Dottie approaches her clients with empathy, humor and compassion as she works with clients to uncover the why of substance use, which then allows for a focus on increasing self-worth, love of self, healing from trauma and any co-occurring diagnosis.
(603) 865-1321 View (603) 865-1321
Photo of Kate R. Murphy, Psychologist in New Hampshire
Kate R. Murphy
Psychologist, PsyD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Thornton, NH 03285  (Online Only)
Kate has worked with a variety of client populations and has an interest in working with adults, adolescents, and children experiencing anxiety, depression, divorce, substance misuse, self-esteem, gender identity, life transitions, and relationship problems.
Kate Murphy has worked since 2008 with adults, adolescents, children and couples to help them overcome anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties and other life challenges. She is a licensed clinical mental health counselor and licensed psychologist with a Doctorate in Counseling and School Psychology from Rivier University. Her clinical work often consists of mindfulness based approaches and to help others become aware of the thoughts and behaviors that we experience that lead to much of what causes our distress.
Kate has worked with a variety of client populations and has an interest in working with adults, adolescents, and children experiencing anxiety, depression, divorce, substance misuse, self-esteem, gender identity, life transitions, and relationship problems.
Kate Murphy has worked since 2008 with adults, adolescents, children and couples to help them overcome anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties and other life challenges. She is a licensed clinical mental health counselor and licensed psychologist with a Doctorate in Counseling and School Psychology from Rivier University. Her clinical work often consists of mindfulness based approaches and to help others become aware of the thoughts and behaviors that we experience that lead to much of what causes our distress.
(603) 691-2842 View (603) 691-2842
Photo of Marie-Elizabeth Ramas in New Hampshire
Marie-Elizabeth Ramas
MD, FAAFP
Verified Verified
Nashua, NH 03060
GateHouse Treatment is a private substance abuse center providing intervention and treatment services to those struggling with substance use disorders and individuals with co-occurring mental health disorders. We provide individualized treatment in a small, gender-specific environment. Also, GateHouse offers one of the only comprehensive vocational programs in Nashua, New Hampshire. At GateHouse, our evidence-based practice is applied along with creative interventions. We provide extraordinary individualized care and enable our clients to gain insight into their underlying factors driving addictive behaviors.
GateHouse Treatment is a private substance abuse center providing intervention and treatment services to those struggling with substance use disorders and individuals with co-occurring mental health disorders. We provide individualized treatment in a small, gender-specific environment. Also, GateHouse offers one of the only comprehensive vocational programs in Nashua, New Hampshire. At GateHouse, our evidence-based practice is applied along with creative interventions. We provide extraordinary individualized care and enable our clients to gain insight into their underlying factors driving addictive behaviors.
(844) 977-4321 View (844) 977-4321
Photo of Mary Elizabeth Beach, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in New Hampshire
Mary Elizabeth Beach
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC
Verified Verified
Nashua, NH 03063
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) 691-3548 View (603) 691-3548
Photo of Joan Sementa, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in New Hampshire
Joan Sementa
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MLADC, MMHC
Verified Verified
Nashua, NH 03060
GateHouse Treatment is a private substance abuse center providing intervention and treatment services to those struggling with substance use disorders and individuals with co-occurring mental health disorders. We provide individualized treatment in a small, gender-specific environment. Also, GateHouse offers one of the only comprehensive vocational programs in Nashua, New Hampshire. At GateHouse, our evidence-based practice is applied along with creative interventions. We provide extraordinary individualized care and enable our clients to gain insight into their underlying factors driving addictive behaviors.
GateHouse Treatment is a private substance abuse center providing intervention and treatment services to those struggling with substance use disorders and individuals with co-occurring mental health disorders. We provide individualized treatment in a small, gender-specific environment. Also, GateHouse offers one of the only comprehensive vocational programs in Nashua, New Hampshire. At GateHouse, our evidence-based practice is applied along with creative interventions. We provide extraordinary individualized care and enable our clients to gain insight into their underlying factors driving addictive behaviors.
(603) 697-7452 View (603) 697-7452
Photo of John Michael Spellacy, Counselor in New Hampshire
John Michael Spellacy
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03103  (Online Only)
I have been working in substance use for over 14 years and have seen clients that have found their success.
Now accepting new clients. Everyone is at a crossroads during their life that they need to talk about issues that they struggle with. Whether it be loss of a love one, battling a substance use issue, a mood disorder or coping with an intellectual disability. Clients have a wide variety of issues that they are seeking to manage and to cope with in a better way. Many times a client is seeking someone to help them make sense out of something that, at least to them in the beginning, seems to be senseless. Answers and ways of moving their life into a forward motion is what many people seek in counseling.
I have been working in substance use for over 14 years and have seen clients that have found their success.
Now accepting new clients. Everyone is at a crossroads during their life that they need to talk about issues that they struggle with. Whether it be loss of a love one, battling a substance use issue, a mood disorder or coping with an intellectual disability. Clients have a wide variety of issues that they are seeking to manage and to cope with in a better way. Many times a client is seeking someone to help them make sense out of something that, at least to them in the beginning, seems to be senseless. Answers and ways of moving their life into a forward motion is what many people seek in counseling.
(603) 709-4806 View (603) 709-4806
Photo of Kristin Emery, Pre-Licensed Professional in New Hampshire
Kristin Emery
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, NH 03217
I provide services for a wide range of issues that include; depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, relational issues, grief, addiction, life coaching, and coping skills.
I provide healing in wellness as you navigate your mental health issues. Whether you are someone who needs a lot of help or just someone who needs to process daily stressors, I am here to help. My focus is to help heal and build confidence within oneself and provide a positive experience where you see real change and real results. I focus on listening to my clients and what they believe they need and creating realistic goals you can achieve. Every client is different and I will help you create an individualized plan that works for you and your lifestyle. I help you by listening intently to your struggles while being there for you.
I provide services for a wide range of issues that include; depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, relational issues, grief, addiction, life coaching, and coping skills.
I provide healing in wellness as you navigate your mental health issues. Whether you are someone who needs a lot of help or just someone who needs to process daily stressors, I am here to help. My focus is to help heal and build confidence within oneself and provide a positive experience where you see real change and real results. I focus on listening to my clients and what they believe they need and creating realistic goals you can achieve. Every client is different and I will help you create an individualized plan that works for you and your lifestyle. I help you by listening intently to your struggles while being there for you.
(802) 589-4016 View (802) 589-4016
Photo of Crossroads Recovery Center, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in New Hampshire
Crossroads Recovery Center
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC, LCMHC, APRN
Verified Verified
Salem, NH 03079
Crossroads offers both mental health and addiction programs including medication management with our NH Board Certified prescriber (Lori Eaton) located at our office here in Salem. Lori is also accepting "New" clients. Call 603-912-4490 to schedule and appt. We also offer, Intensive Outpatient Treatment, Individual Counseling, Aftercare, Medication Management, Interventions and Evidence Based Treatment. We are In-Network with most insurances and are an approved NH Medicaid Provider. Here at Crossroads we understand the physical. emotional and psychological impact that active addiction can have on individuals and their loved ones.
Crossroads offers both mental health and addiction programs including medication management with our NH Board Certified prescriber (Lori Eaton) located at our office here in Salem. Lori is also accepting "New" clients. Call 603-912-4490 to schedule and appt. We also offer, Intensive Outpatient Treatment, Individual Counseling, Aftercare, Medication Management, Interventions and Evidence Based Treatment. We are In-Network with most insurances and are an approved NH Medicaid Provider. Here at Crossroads we understand the physical. emotional and psychological impact that active addiction can have on individuals and their loved ones.
(603) 475-7388 View (603) 475-7388
Photo of Kathleen Russo, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in New Hampshire
Kathleen Russo
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, BS, LADC
Verified Verified
Tilton, NH 03276
Serendipity means finding something you didn't expect to find. That sums up my practice. I have been working in the field of addiction for 30+ years. I have worked in all settings, different parts of the country and with some wonderful people. My office is homey, worked in and clients are free to speak their mind. Sometimes I bring my dog, Oreo. My practice is primarily focused on Drug and Alcohol addiction. I also work with family members on ways to best help their loved one. During your time in my office you would learn more about the following:
Serendipity means finding something you didn't expect to find. That sums up my practice. I have been working in the field of addiction for 30+ years. I have worked in all settings, different parts of the country and with some wonderful people. My office is homey, worked in and clients are free to speak their mind. Sometimes I bring my dog, Oreo. My practice is primarily focused on Drug and Alcohol addiction. I also work with family members on ways to best help their loved one. During your time in my office you would learn more about the following:
(603) 823-3315 View (603) 823-3315
Photo of Mackenzie Seely, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in New Hampshire
Mackenzie Seely
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LICSW, MLADC
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03102  (Online Only)
I have been working in the field of substance use disorder since 2015.
LICSW & MLADC! I have a strong personal belief that all individuals who seek to change their lives are capable of doing so. I enjoy working with both those who are just starting to explore areas of their lives they are unhappy with or those who know what they want to change and are looking for guidance or new perspectives. Many clients come in with goals targeting their mental health and addiction, others are seeking changes in lifestyle or just need someone to listen. I am also available to provide evaluations as requested by clients, courts, or other entities! Happy to help! Reach out today!
I have been working in the field of substance use disorder since 2015.
LICSW & MLADC! I have a strong personal belief that all individuals who seek to change their lives are capable of doing so. I enjoy working with both those who are just starting to explore areas of their lives they are unhappy with or those who know what they want to change and are looking for guidance or new perspectives. Many clients come in with goals targeting their mental health and addiction, others are seeking changes in lifestyle or just need someone to listen. I am also available to provide evaluations as requested by clients, courts, or other entities! Happy to help! Reach out today!
(978) 301-8794 View (978) 301-8794
Photo of Cardinal North Wellness Collective, Pre-Licensed Professional in New Hampshire
Cardinal North Wellness Collective
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Rollinsford, NH 03869
I welcome motivated clients navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, addiction, and more. I offer an empathetic space to explore thoughts and emotions. If your goals are to heal, grow, and empower yourself, or if you aim to overcome trauma, cultivate self-awareness, understand personal mental struggles, or to enhance resilience and inner peace, please reach out today. I use a blend of Evidenced-based therapy such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, IFS, and Meditation as well as Yoga Therapy, Sound Healing, and Reiki. These modalities are tools to aid you on your quest of transformation and to find your True North.
I welcome motivated clients navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, addiction, and more. I offer an empathetic space to explore thoughts and emotions. If your goals are to heal, grow, and empower yourself, or if you aim to overcome trauma, cultivate self-awareness, understand personal mental struggles, or to enhance resilience and inner peace, please reach out today. I use a blend of Evidenced-based therapy such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, IFS, and Meditation as well as Yoga Therapy, Sound Healing, and Reiki. These modalities are tools to aid you on your quest of transformation and to find your True North.
(866) 691-6204 View (866) 691-6204
Photo of Sheila Jenkins, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in New Hampshire
Sheila Jenkins
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, MLADC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03802
I provide counseling to individuals on a variety of issues including depression/anxiety,anger management, substance abuse, addiction, compulsive behaviors,and stress management. Counseling sessions are tailored to your goals: either short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing ongoing personal growth. If you are looking for ways to gain a better understanding of yourself, change old behavior patterns, learn new ways to cope with stress then counseling can help you. What you can expect from counseling is compassion, and understanding, new perspectives on negative feelings and behaviors, and strategies for creating positive changes in your life.
I provide counseling to individuals on a variety of issues including depression/anxiety,anger management, substance abuse, addiction, compulsive behaviors,and stress management. Counseling sessions are tailored to your goals: either short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing ongoing personal growth. If you are looking for ways to gain a better understanding of yourself, change old behavior patterns, learn new ways to cope with stress then counseling can help you. What you can expect from counseling is compassion, and understanding, new perspectives on negative feelings and behaviors, and strategies for creating positive changes in your life.
(603) 244-3939 View (603) 244-3939
Photo of Randy Stevens, Pre-Licensed Professional in New Hampshire
Randy Stevens
Pre-Licensed Professional, CRSW, ADS, CPSS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, NH 03110
I offer many therapeutic modalities, like DBT Skills work, Ear acupuncture, the NADA protocol, and other approaches to help with substance use and regulation.
I'm passionate about meeting people where they are and helping them with what they're hoping to be helped with. I take a holistic approach to help people find a more balanced view of themselves.
I offer many therapeutic modalities, like DBT Skills work, Ear acupuncture, the NADA protocol, and other approaches to help with substance use and regulation.
I'm passionate about meeting people where they are and helping them with what they're hoping to be helped with. I take a holistic approach to help people find a more balanced view of themselves.
(855) 699-4358 View (855) 699-4358

See more therapy options for New Hampshire

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.