Addiction Therapists in South Dakota

Photo of Kelsey Theesfeld, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Dakota
Kelsey Theesfeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW-PIP, LAC, QMHP
Verified Verified
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
My license and certifications include: Certified Social Worker - Private Independent Practice, Licensed Addiction Counselor, and Qualified Mental Health Professional.
Now accepting new clients! I have experience working in a variety of mental health settings including a detox facility, correctional facility, inpatient hospital, and community mental health. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults. My areas of interest include severe mental illness, substance use, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, criminal justice involvement, and life transitions.
My license and certifications include: Certified Social Worker - Private Independent Practice, Licensed Addiction Counselor, and Qualified Mental Health Professional.
Now accepting new clients! I have experience working in a variety of mental health settings including a detox facility, correctional facility, inpatient hospital, and community mental health. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults. My areas of interest include severe mental illness, substance use, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, criminal justice involvement, and life transitions.
(605) 570-5732 View (605) 570-5732
Photo of Tara Reinesch, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Dakota
Tara Reinesch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LAC, LPC-MH
Verified Verified
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
Together we can work to help you overcome past traumas, better manage mental health disorders/substance use disorders, and identify and work towards your goals for the future.
I'm so happy you are here and am proud of you for taking the first step in your journey of choosing a therapist. I know this can be a scary experience and I am here to tell you that you do not have to go through this process alone. My goal is to work alongside you to help you to recognize the importance of embracing grace for yourself. Once you give yourself the grace to acknowledge your feelings, the tough times you are going through, the past experiences that have shaped you, the stressors you are experiencing and more; we are able to begin to heal and grow. Whatever you are feeling, those feelings are valid.
Together we can work to help you overcome past traumas, better manage mental health disorders/substance use disorders, and identify and work towards your goals for the future.
I'm so happy you are here and am proud of you for taking the first step in your journey of choosing a therapist. I know this can be a scary experience and I am here to tell you that you do not have to go through this process alone. My goal is to work alongside you to help you to recognize the importance of embracing grace for yourself. Once you give yourself the grace to acknowledge your feelings, the tough times you are going through, the past experiences that have shaped you, the stressors you are experiencing and more; we are able to begin to heal and grow. Whatever you are feeling, those feelings are valid.
(605) 205-8933 View (605) 205-8933
Photo of Lacey Leichtnam, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Dakota
Lacey Leichtnam
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-MH, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
I began my career in residential treatment working with adolescents and adults suffering with a combination of addiction and mental health disorders. I work from an Adlerian perspective with a systems integration. I also often incorporate DBT skills in sessions. I enjoy working with adults and adolescents and work with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm behaviors, relationship issues, addiction, codependence, low self-esteem, and those struggling with life transitions.
I began my career in residential treatment working with adolescents and adults suffering with a combination of addiction and mental health disorders. I work from an Adlerian perspective with a systems integration. I also often incorporate DBT skills in sessions. I enjoy working with adults and adolescents and work with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm behaviors, relationship issues, addiction, codependence, low self-esteem, and those struggling with life transitions.
(605) 674-7249 View (605) 674-7249
Photo of Jill Viedt, Counselor in South Dakota
Jill Viedt
Counselor, MS, LPC-MH, LAC
Verified Verified
Pierre, SD 57501
My goal is to provide support and empower each individual I work with to feel happier and to progress towards accomplishing their target goals. I work with individuals to help empower them to achieve an overall sense of wellness. I am able to treat co-occurring disorders such as mental health concerns, substance use concerns, stress management, grief and loss, relationship challenges, thinking pattern issues, and ineffective coping skills. I believe a person should be treated from a holistic approach, allowing them to work on their entire self in one place.
My goal is to provide support and empower each individual I work with to feel happier and to progress towards accomplishing their target goals. I work with individuals to help empower them to achieve an overall sense of wellness. I am able to treat co-occurring disorders such as mental health concerns, substance use concerns, stress management, grief and loss, relationship challenges, thinking pattern issues, and ineffective coping skills. I believe a person should be treated from a holistic approach, allowing them to work on their entire self in one place.
(605) 250-0570 View (605) 250-0570
Photo of Alyssa Martin, Counselor in South Dakota
Alyssa Martin
Counselor, MS, LAC
Not Verified Not Verified
Rapid City, SD 57703
Alyssa Martin, MS, LAC is a South Dakota State Licensed Addiction Counselor and has a Master's of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from South Dakota State University. She has experience in working with adolescents and adults in intensive inpatient treatment and outpatient settings. She uses cognitive behavioral, solution-focused and motivational interviewing therapeutic techniques. She specializes in substance abuse, addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief. She is currently employed at Black Hills Counselors and provides Substance Abuse evaluations, outpatient groups, DUI classes, individual, family and couples counseling sessions for adults and adolescents.
Alyssa Martin, MS, LAC is a South Dakota State Licensed Addiction Counselor and has a Master's of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from South Dakota State University. She has experience in working with adolescents and adults in intensive inpatient treatment and outpatient settings. She uses cognitive behavioral, solution-focused and motivational interviewing therapeutic techniques. She specializes in substance abuse, addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief. She is currently employed at Black Hills Counselors and provides Substance Abuse evaluations, outpatient groups, DUI classes, individual, family and couples counseling sessions for adults and adolescents.
(605) 653-4528 View (605) 653-4528
Photo of Southwest Evaluations & Counseling , Counselor in South Dakota
Southwest Evaluations & Counseling
Counselor, LCPC, LAC, LPC-MH
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57701  (Online Only)
Waitlist until July 1, 2024. Do you struggle with anxiety from family or romantic relationships? Do you feel alone in your suffer with chronic pain or illness? Therapy can help! Specialty areas: addiction/substance abuse (dual diagnosis/co-occurring), ADHD, anxiety, “codependency”, chronic pain/illness, depression, eating disorders, stress related to work- including farming/ranching, and mental health & chemical dependency evaluations. LCPC, LAC (Montana: Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Licensed Addiction Counselor) & LPC-MH (South Dakota: Licensed Professional Counselor - Mental Health designation). Telehealth only.
Waitlist until July 1, 2024. Do you struggle with anxiety from family or romantic relationships? Do you feel alone in your suffer with chronic pain or illness? Therapy can help! Specialty areas: addiction/substance abuse (dual diagnosis/co-occurring), ADHD, anxiety, “codependency”, chronic pain/illness, depression, eating disorders, stress related to work- including farming/ranching, and mental health & chemical dependency evaluations. LCPC, LAC (Montana: Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Licensed Addiction Counselor) & LPC-MH (South Dakota: Licensed Professional Counselor - Mental Health designation). Telehealth only.
(605) 450-7645 View (605) 450-7645
Photo of Marquette Brandner, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Dakota
Marquette Brandner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, QMHP, LPCMH, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57110
I specialize in the areas of emotion regulation, trauma, and substance use and have in the past worked with the ages of 9 and up.
My main mission is to help my clients create their own life worth living as whatever that looks like to them in addition to working on building different skill sets to help them get to where they want to be. I utilize a holistic approach to help them reach their goals as I believe many aspects of that often get forgotten and are yet so essential.
I specialize in the areas of emotion regulation, trauma, and substance use and have in the past worked with the ages of 9 and up.
My main mission is to help my clients create their own life worth living as whatever that looks like to them in addition to working on building different skill sets to help them get to where they want to be. I utilize a holistic approach to help them reach their goals as I believe many aspects of that often get forgotten and are yet so essential.
(605) 349-1681 View (605) 349-1681
Photo of Molly Therese McIntosh, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Dakota
Molly Therese McIntosh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-MH, LAC, QMHP, RYS-200
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
Waitlist for new clients
My areas of most extensive expertise are treatment of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and grief.
When daily life is increasingly difficult to navigate, we can reach a point where we just stop seeing the joy in things. It can feel like it takes so much effort to complete simple tasks. During these times we may begin to wonder if we will ever feel any better. I'm here to assure you that you are not alone and you are not going to feel this way forever. I have worked in the counseling field for over 20 years, during which time I have helped people of all ages in a variety of settings. I am equipped with clinical experience, education and training to help you experience relief, increased insights, and peace of mind.
My areas of most extensive expertise are treatment of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and grief.
When daily life is increasingly difficult to navigate, we can reach a point where we just stop seeing the joy in things. It can feel like it takes so much effort to complete simple tasks. During these times we may begin to wonder if we will ever feel any better. I'm here to assure you that you are not alone and you are not going to feel this way forever. I have worked in the counseling field for over 20 years, during which time I have helped people of all ages in a variety of settings. I am equipped with clinical experience, education and training to help you experience relief, increased insights, and peace of mind.
(605) 210-5633 View (605) 210-5633
Photo of Sioux River Mental Health Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Dakota
Sioux River Mental Health Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MH, LAC, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57105
Looking for a professional to help you navigate your way through difficult times? Do you need someone that will listen to your story in a non-judgmental way? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health; a Licensed Addiction Counselor, and a Qualified Mental Health Professional. I have over 20 years of experience helping people just like you in situations just like yours. I'd like the opportunity to listen to what's on your mind. If you suffer from anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder I'd like to help you. If you have issues in your marriage or struggle with parenting difficult children, we should talk now!
Looking for a professional to help you navigate your way through difficult times? Do you need someone that will listen to your story in a non-judgmental way? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health; a Licensed Addiction Counselor, and a Qualified Mental Health Professional. I have over 20 years of experience helping people just like you in situations just like yours. I'd like the opportunity to listen to what's on your mind. If you suffer from anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder I'd like to help you. If you have issues in your marriage or struggle with parenting difficult children, we should talk now!
(605) 250-3288 View (605) 250-3288
Photo of Natausha Deurmier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Dakota
Natausha Deurmier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSW, CAC, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
I work with both adults and adolescents regarding a wide array of concerns or issues such as depression, anxiety, codependency and relationship issues, substance abuse or addiction, past childhood trauma, and life transitions.
It takes courage to initiate the healing process. It can feel intimidating and like stepping into unknown territory at times. It is my goal to make this process less intimidating and more predictable by creating a therapeutic alliance to assist in developing meaningful goals. Therapy can sometimes be messy, uncomfortable, and challenging but therapy can also be healing, calming, and liberating.
I work with both adults and adolescents regarding a wide array of concerns or issues such as depression, anxiety, codependency and relationship issues, substance abuse or addiction, past childhood trauma, and life transitions.
It takes courage to initiate the healing process. It can feel intimidating and like stepping into unknown territory at times. It is my goal to make this process less intimidating and more predictable by creating a therapeutic alliance to assist in developing meaningful goals. Therapy can sometimes be messy, uncomfortable, and challenging but therapy can also be healing, calming, and liberating.
(605) 303-6304 View (605) 303-6304
Photo of Alyssa Petersen, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Dakota
Alyssa Petersen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-MH, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57105
I am trained in working with adolescents, adults, and families who struggle with substance abuse and dependence, depression, anxiety, postpartum anxiety and depression and personality disorders.
“Challenges are what make life interesting and overcoming them is what makes life meaningful.” (Joshua J. Marine) Everybody struggles with the challenges of life and everyone deserves a full and fruitful life. I am committed to facing these challenges with you and walking along side you to create the life that you deserve.
I am trained in working with adolescents, adults, and families who struggle with substance abuse and dependence, depression, anxiety, postpartum anxiety and depression and personality disorders.
“Challenges are what make life interesting and overcoming them is what makes life meaningful.” (Joshua J. Marine) Everybody struggles with the challenges of life and everyone deserves a full and fruitful life. I am committed to facing these challenges with you and walking along side you to create the life that you deserve.
(605) 205-8764 View (605) 205-8764
Photo of Joshua Duncan, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Dakota
Joshua Duncan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, QMHP, LAC
Verified Verified
Sioux Falls, SD 57106
Journeying with people in unbecoming to become. The journey forward is inward. I love hearing stories and helping people become more self-aware so they can be empowered to live life fully. Learning how to live in peace. I work with teens, young adults, and adults, especially those challenged with attachment issues, addiction, relational trauma, anxiety, personality issues, and leaders. I am currently working on my PhD in Development Psychology with a specialization in leadership and organizational development at Walden University (Nov'23)
Journeying with people in unbecoming to become. The journey forward is inward. I love hearing stories and helping people become more self-aware so they can be empowered to live life fully. Learning how to live in peace. I work with teens, young adults, and adults, especially those challenged with attachment issues, addiction, relational trauma, anxiety, personality issues, and leaders. I am currently working on my PhD in Development Psychology with a specialization in leadership and organizational development at Walden University (Nov'23)
(605) 534-8646 View (605) 534-8646
Photo of Enso Mental Health, LLC, Pre-Licensed Professional in South Dakota
Enso Mental Health, LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC, LPC-sup
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spearfish, SD 57783
I also have experience working w/substance use issues that often cohabitate with mental & emotional issues.
I value a holistic approach to counseling and will consider all aspects of a person in our work together. I am committed to providing a safe and judgment free space to reflect and grow through all of life’s experiences.
I also have experience working w/substance use issues that often cohabitate with mental & emotional issues.
I value a holistic approach to counseling and will consider all aspects of a person in our work together. I am committed to providing a safe and judgment free space to reflect and grow through all of life’s experiences.
(605) 633-5079 View (605) 633-5079
Photo of Johnny Ray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Dakota
Johnny Ray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWPIP, LAC, QMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57103
Some times this behavior is a action such as substance use, at other times this an internal struggle like patterns of thoughts such as depression or anxiety.
Life can be difficult. I invite you into a safe and caring environment to address the specific needs and challenges you are facing. I view therapy as a sacred process where one is empowered, heard and supported. This process comes from a authentic professional relationship that is established between therapist and client. Through this process of exploration one can gain insight into problems, develop strategies with life challenges and overcome struggles that have been overwhelming. If you don't know what to do and are looking for hope I encourage you to contact me.
Some times this behavior is a action such as substance use, at other times this an internal struggle like patterns of thoughts such as depression or anxiety.
Life can be difficult. I invite you into a safe and caring environment to address the specific needs and challenges you are facing. I view therapy as a sacred process where one is empowered, heard and supported. This process comes from a authentic professional relationship that is established between therapist and client. Through this process of exploration one can gain insight into problems, develop strategies with life challenges and overcome struggles that have been overwhelming. If you don't know what to do and are looking for hope I encourage you to contact me.
(605) 250-7053 View (605) 250-7053
Photo of Joleena Abrams in South Dakota
Joleena Abrams
CMEMI, CCTSA, CLC, MA
Verified Verified
Sioux Falls, SD 57101  (Online Only)
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist, with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist, with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
(307) 275-7327 View (307) 275-7327
Photo of Jennifer Walker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Dakota
Jennifer Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, QMHP, ACT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57105
I am certified in providing a clinical approach to issues such as eating disorders, traumatic brain injury, addiction issues, and Intellectual and Developmental disabilities.
I believe success in therapy is linked to the importance of building a strong therapeutic alliance with clients. I achieve this relationship through a non-judgmental, gentle demeanor, and compassionate approach. My passion is working with people who may feel overlooked, forgotten, or left out. I love working with a variety of clients through the lifespan; with those needing support, help finding life purpose, and strengthening communication and relationships. I am also passionate about serving Autistic individuals, parents who have children with disabilities, adolescents, and navigating and managing positive coping skills.
I am certified in providing a clinical approach to issues such as eating disorders, traumatic brain injury, addiction issues, and Intellectual and Developmental disabilities.
I believe success in therapy is linked to the importance of building a strong therapeutic alliance with clients. I achieve this relationship through a non-judgmental, gentle demeanor, and compassionate approach. My passion is working with people who may feel overlooked, forgotten, or left out. I love working with a variety of clients through the lifespan; with those needing support, help finding life purpose, and strengthening communication and relationships. I am also passionate about serving Autistic individuals, parents who have children with disabilities, adolescents, and navigating and managing positive coping skills.
(605) 205-8956 View (605) 205-8956
Photo of Emily A Hamling, Pre-Licensed Professional in South Dakota
Emily A Hamling
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57702
I have experience walking with individuals managing long-term mental health conditions, substance use issues, life transitions, trauma, loss/grief, communication concerns, self-harm, & relationship concerns.
“To build the life you desire and deserve to live”. This is my purpose in the counseling process as we partner to explore life and what it could be. As we partner together on your journey in life, I commit to meeting you were you are at while providing a space that is nonjudgmental, genuine, and balanced in acceptance and change. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing are my primary treatment modalities while also integrating different techniques based on your individual needs.
I have experience walking with individuals managing long-term mental health conditions, substance use issues, life transitions, trauma, loss/grief, communication concerns, self-harm, & relationship concerns.
“To build the life you desire and deserve to live”. This is my purpose in the counseling process as we partner to explore life and what it could be. As we partner together on your journey in life, I commit to meeting you were you are at while providing a space that is nonjudgmental, genuine, and balanced in acceptance and change. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing are my primary treatment modalities while also integrating different techniques based on your individual needs.
(605) 574-5418 View (605) 574-5418
Photo of Scott Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Dakota
Scott Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW-PIP, CSAT
Verified Verified
Box Elder, SD 57719  (Online Only)
Sex addiction doesn't have to continue ruining your life. Life may feel hopeless, and your anxiety may be higher than you've ever felt before. Yet, it doesn't have to stay this way. My clients all have two things in common: 1) They want to be here for themselves, even when others are making them, and 2) They work to achieve their goals. They come to me usually in a state of panic or depression, or some even come in when their world is chaotic and out of control. When you're ready to tackle your issues, give me a call.
Sex addiction doesn't have to continue ruining your life. Life may feel hopeless, and your anxiety may be higher than you've ever felt before. Yet, it doesn't have to stay this way. My clients all have two things in common: 1) They want to be here for themselves, even when others are making them, and 2) They work to achieve their goals. They come to me usually in a state of panic or depression, or some even come in when their world is chaotic and out of control. When you're ready to tackle your issues, give me a call.
(605) 231-9469 View (605) 231-9469
Photo of Mary Margaret DALLMAN, Marriage & Family Therapist in South Dakota
Mary Margaret DALLMAN
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT , CEAP, MAC
Verified Verified
Vermillion, SD 57069
I am an LMFT with over 30 years experience working with couples and individuals ages 12 and up addressing a wide range of issues. These include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, work challenges, grief and loss, addiction, aging, transitions, managing stress and relationship issues. I love what I do and feel privileged to do this important work. I create a safe place for people to address their concerns, fears and life changes that affect us all.
I am an LMFT with over 30 years experience working with couples and individuals ages 12 and up addressing a wide range of issues. These include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, work challenges, grief and loss, addiction, aging, transitions, managing stress and relationship issues. I love what I do and feel privileged to do this important work. I create a safe place for people to address their concerns, fears and life changes that affect us all.
(605) 349-2969 View (605) 349-2969
Photo of Jennie Mayer, Licensed Professional Counselor in South Dakota
Jennie Mayer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, QMHP, LPC-MH, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
I am experienced and passionate in providing therapy for trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, secondary trauma, substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, anger management, relational/marital issues, family of origin issues, grief and loss, miscarriage/pregnancy loss, self-esteem, pregnancy/postpartum issues, stress, legal issues, and parenting.
I approach therapy and treatment of individuals, couples, groups and families in a manner consistent with principles of integrity, cooperation and connectedness. I am dedicated to assisting individuals in improving the quality of their lives and in addressing mental health and substance use disorders with compassion.
I am experienced and passionate in providing therapy for trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, secondary trauma, substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, anger management, relational/marital issues, family of origin issues, grief and loss, miscarriage/pregnancy loss, self-esteem, pregnancy/postpartum issues, stress, legal issues, and parenting.
I approach therapy and treatment of individuals, couples, groups and families in a manner consistent with principles of integrity, cooperation and connectedness. I am dedicated to assisting individuals in improving the quality of their lives and in addressing mental health and substance use disorders with compassion.
(605) 250-6911 View (605) 250-6911

See more therapy options for South Dakota

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.