Photo of Milestones Counseling Behavioral Health Private Practice, Counselor in Vermont
Milestones Counseling Behavioral Health Private Practice
Counselor, LPC, LC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rutland, VT 05701
Our practice specializes in CBT, DBT, & ERP therapy for adolescents, young adults, and mentoring for at-risk youth populations. We provide integrated, individual and private therapy services specific to mood, anxiety & trauma disorders. In addition to our counseling services, our therapists and peer specialist offer comprehensive diagnosis & the treatment of addiction disorders, focusing on outpatient levels of care and resources for the family.
Our practice specializes in CBT, DBT, & ERP therapy for adolescents, young adults, and mentoring for at-risk youth populations. We provide integrated, individual and private therapy services specific to mood, anxiety & trauma disorders. In addition to our counseling services, our therapists and peer specialist offer comprehensive diagnosis & the treatment of addiction disorders, focusing on outpatient levels of care and resources for the family.
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Photo of Joyce Sullivan, Psychologist in Vermont
Joyce Sullivan
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Brattleboro, VT 05301
I have been offering psychotherapy and substance abuse counseling to adults, couples and families for more than 30 years. With a combination of practical guidance, humor and respect, I work collaboratively with people to ease the stress and tensions that block them from living more fully. I have studied mindfulness and I have focused extensively on training in the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model and it is the primary model I use in working with individuals and couples. Areas of interest include relationship issues, anxiety and depression, and recovery from addiction.
I have been offering psychotherapy and substance abuse counseling to adults, couples and families for more than 30 years. With a combination of practical guidance, humor and respect, I work collaboratively with people to ease the stress and tensions that block them from living more fully. I have studied mindfulness and I have focused extensively on training in the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model and it is the primary model I use in working with individuals and couples. Areas of interest include relationship issues, anxiety and depression, and recovery from addiction.
(802) 328-9240 View (802) 328-9240
Photo of Adam M. Grundt, Psychologist in Vermont
Adam M. Grundt
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
Waitlist for new clients
I work with seniors, adults and adolescents on a variety of issues, including: communication and relationship concerns; substance use; substance use-associated trauma; dealing with loss; anxiety; depression; handling chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, cancer or HIV infection; HIV-associated trauma; pain management; weight loss; smoking cessation; and LGBTQ issues.
The goal of my practice is to help reduce suffering and to increase capacity for joy, flexibility, and life fulfillment. I individualize my approach to your needs using a mix of different psychological approaches, including cognitive-behavioral, narrative and psychodynamic. I am a Vermont licensed doctoral-level psychologist who trained in health psychology at the Minneapolis VA Hospital, and engaged in postdoctoral study in behavioral medicine at the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. I worked for many years at the Hazelden Center, a nationally-recognized leader in addiction treatment, and gained additional experience working with adolescents as a high school counselor and wellness teacher
I work with seniors, adults and adolescents on a variety of issues, including: communication and relationship concerns; substance use; substance use-associated trauma; dealing with loss; anxiety; depression; handling chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, cancer or HIV infection; HIV-associated trauma; pain management; weight loss; smoking cessation; and LGBTQ issues.
The goal of my practice is to help reduce suffering and to increase capacity for joy, flexibility, and life fulfillment. I individualize my approach to your needs using a mix of different psychological approaches, including cognitive-behavioral, narrative and psychodynamic. I am a Vermont licensed doctoral-level psychologist who trained in health psychology at the Minneapolis VA Hospital, and engaged in postdoctoral study in behavioral medicine at the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. I worked for many years at the Hazelden Center, a nationally-recognized leader in addiction treatment, and gained additional experience working with adolescents as a high school counselor and wellness teacher
(802) 357-4168 View (802) 357-4168
Photo of April Marie Bodette, Counselor in Vermont
April Marie Bodette
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Derby Line, VT 05830
My role in the scope of my practice is being a guide providing a safe, empathetic, and no judgement space for us to work together as we find the right path for you to follow. I believe in a balanced life style connecting the mind with the body while making sure your basic needs are met. I find working together on issues related to trauma, abandonment, attachment, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and transitioning from one life experience to the next, very rewarding. I have experience with children, families, youth, teenagers, adults and the aging population.
My role in the scope of my practice is being a guide providing a safe, empathetic, and no judgement space for us to work together as we find the right path for you to follow. I believe in a balanced life style connecting the mind with the body while making sure your basic needs are met. I find working together on issues related to trauma, abandonment, attachment, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and transitioning from one life experience to the next, very rewarding. I have experience with children, families, youth, teenagers, adults and the aging population.
(802) 779-9022 View (802) 779-9022
Photo of Samuel N Hollander, Counselor in Vermont
Samuel N Hollander
Counselor, MEd, LADC
Not Verified Not Verified
Rutland, VT 05701  (Online Only)
Having been an LADC, or licensed addiction counselor makes me especially qualified to deal with all aspects of addiction, from treating the individual who suffers from addiction, as well as family members or others who are effected by it.
I have been practicing psychotherapy for almost 40 years. I believe therapy to be an art form, inasmuch as each person, couple or family has their own singular story, and their own needs; My job is to employ the best approach for that individual or family. I utilize metaphor and humor as tools to help re-frame a perspective or shed light on a troublesome concept, often helping clients look at a particular difficulty in a new way. Please call for a free consult.
Having been an LADC, or licensed addiction counselor makes me especially qualified to deal with all aspects of addiction, from treating the individual who suffers from addiction, as well as family members or others who are effected by it.
I have been practicing psychotherapy for almost 40 years. I believe therapy to be an art form, inasmuch as each person, couple or family has their own singular story, and their own needs; My job is to employ the best approach for that individual or family. I utilize metaphor and humor as tools to help re-frame a perspective or shed light on a troublesome concept, often helping clients look at a particular difficulty in a new way. Please call for a free consult.
(802) 664-4457 View (802) 664-4457
Photo of Julie R Tatkon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vermont
Julie R Tatkon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, Imago, EMDR
Verified Verified
Middlebury, VT 05753
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience and specialized training in addiction, trauma, couple and family therapy and well as parenting.
Good therapy can produce long lasting life changes. I approach therapy as a collaborative effort. I start with where the client finds themselves in the present. I listen with both curiosity and empathy to understand an individual's unique experience. In treatment I create an atmosphere of trust where together we can identify your strengths, find practical solutions to problems and unfold underlying difficulties that are obstacles to your experience of a rich and fulfilling life.
I have extensive experience and specialized training in addiction, trauma, couple and family therapy and well as parenting.
Good therapy can produce long lasting life changes. I approach therapy as a collaborative effort. I start with where the client finds themselves in the present. I listen with both curiosity and empathy to understand an individual's unique experience. In treatment I create an atmosphere of trust where together we can identify your strengths, find practical solutions to problems and unfold underlying difficulties that are obstacles to your experience of a rich and fulfilling life.
(917) 708-8407 View (917) 708-8407
Photo of Genna Vinson, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Vermont
Genna Vinson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Brattleboro, VT 05301  (Online Only)
Parents: We use supportive education that influences your child's behaviors and reduce the risks of developing long term mental health and substance use disorders.
If there is something you want to change about your life - you can! It just takes some knowledge and some planning. Today there are solution focused therapies that many people have used to deal with depression, anxiety, and addictions. Our counseling specialties include screening and treating all of the above and help you come up with a plan to have a brighter and happier future.
Parents: We use supportive education that influences your child's behaviors and reduce the risks of developing long term mental health and substance use disorders.
If there is something you want to change about your life - you can! It just takes some knowledge and some planning. Today there are solution focused therapies that many people have used to deal with depression, anxiety, and addictions. Our counseling specialties include screening and treating all of the above and help you come up with a plan to have a brighter and happier future.
(802) 689-1148 View (802) 689-1148
Photo of Karen L. Morris, Licensed Psychoanalyst in Vermont
Karen L. Morris
Licensed Psychoanalyst, LP, NCPsyA
Verified Verified
Montpelier, VT 05602
I worked for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), NYC, treating dually diagnosed HIV+ and AIDS clients for alcohol and poly-substance abuse.
Psychoanalysis and analytic psychotherapy are relationship-based treatment models. Reasons for seeking treatment, such as depression and anxiety, are as unique to individuals as are their relationships, thoughts, feelings, and perceptions. Finding out for one's self what constitutes a good therapeutic relationship develops over time along with insight and transformation. There is no replacement for personal experience where mental health is concerned. In the words of Wilfred Bion, "You are the most important person you are ever likely to meet. Therefore it is of no small importance that you get on well with this important person."
I worked for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), NYC, treating dually diagnosed HIV+ and AIDS clients for alcohol and poly-substance abuse.
Psychoanalysis and analytic psychotherapy are relationship-based treatment models. Reasons for seeking treatment, such as depression and anxiety, are as unique to individuals as are their relationships, thoughts, feelings, and perceptions. Finding out for one's self what constitutes a good therapeutic relationship develops over time along with insight and transformation. There is no replacement for personal experience where mental health is concerned. In the words of Wilfred Bion, "You are the most important person you are ever likely to meet. Therefore it is of no small importance that you get on well with this important person."
(802) 444-8327 View (802) 444-8327
Photo of Gavin B Chadwell, Counselor in Vermont
Gavin B Chadwell
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Williston, VT 05495
Waitlist for new clients
My experience also includes addiction work with both adolescents and adults.
I am now maintaining a waitlist; contact for scheduling options. Adolescence and adulthood are challenging; coping with anxiety, depression, and the daily barriers of life can easily complicate things further. You may struggle to cope with and find balance between the frustrations of school, relationships, work, and family. Maybe you feel it is time to focus on personal growth and seek harmony. Taking the first steps can feel extraordinarily challenging but I will be there to provide support and guidance within your journey. I believe everyone has the capacity to manage life's challenges and I can provide you the skills to do so.
My experience also includes addiction work with both adolescents and adults.
I am now maintaining a waitlist; contact for scheduling options. Adolescence and adulthood are challenging; coping with anxiety, depression, and the daily barriers of life can easily complicate things further. You may struggle to cope with and find balance between the frustrations of school, relationships, work, and family. Maybe you feel it is time to focus on personal growth and seek harmony. Taking the first steps can feel extraordinarily challenging but I will be there to provide support and guidance within your journey. I believe everyone has the capacity to manage life's challenges and I can provide you the skills to do so.
(802) 494-4367 View (802) 494-4367
Photo of Jill M Sabotka, Marriage & Family Therapist in Vermont
Jill M Sabotka
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rutland, VT 05701
I am trained in body/mind therapy which helps clients re-connect to the innate wisdom of the body, usually severed by addiction, co-dependency and chronic struggle.
Do you feel like life is always overwhelming? Do you feel alone? Are you using distractions (substances, food, devices) to soothe yourself which is causing more suffering instead of bringing relief? Our culture today pushes for faster, better, stronger which can be painful. It leads to patterns and behaviors that cut us off from experiencing freedom, joy and ease. I work with teenagers and adults who have found that their "old ways" are more causing more suffering than comfort and they are ready to open to something new.
I am trained in body/mind therapy which helps clients re-connect to the innate wisdom of the body, usually severed by addiction, co-dependency and chronic struggle.
Do you feel like life is always overwhelming? Do you feel alone? Are you using distractions (substances, food, devices) to soothe yourself which is causing more suffering instead of bringing relief? Our culture today pushes for faster, better, stronger which can be painful. It leads to patterns and behaviors that cut us off from experiencing freedom, joy and ease. I work with teenagers and adults who have found that their "old ways" are more causing more suffering than comfort and they are ready to open to something new.
(802) 768-7740 View (802) 768-7740
Photo of Evelyn A. Zoecklein, Counselor in Vermont
Evelyn A. Zoecklein
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LADC
Verified Verified
Moretown, VT 05660  (Online Only)
I have been a substance abuse and mental health clinician for 19 years. I have worked in residential, intensive outpatient, outpatient, medically assisted therapy, and school settings providing prevention, intervention, assessment, treatment, and referral services. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in group and individual sessions providing both education and therapy. I am qualified to provide license reinstatement counseling for the State of Vermont.
I have been a substance abuse and mental health clinician for 19 years. I have worked in residential, intensive outpatient, outpatient, medically assisted therapy, and school settings providing prevention, intervention, assessment, treatment, and referral services. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in group and individual sessions providing both education and therapy. I am qualified to provide license reinstatement counseling for the State of Vermont.
(802) 328-5121 View (802) 328-5121
Photo of Glendon Scott Bemis, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Vermont
Glendon Scott Bemis
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC, LCMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Chester, VT 05143
I am a dual licensed counselor (Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor AND Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor) with a background in Opiate addiction and working with Dual diagnosis patients. I am solution focused and believe a combination of trust, teamwork and the right information is the key to success. Specializing in depression, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues (couples counseling) AND court mandated counseling/ CRASH/DUI mandated counseling.
I am a dual licensed counselor (Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor AND Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor) with a background in Opiate addiction and working with Dual diagnosis patients. I am solution focused and believe a combination of trust, teamwork and the right information is the key to success. Specializing in depression, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues (couples counseling) AND court mandated counseling/ CRASH/DUI mandated counseling.
(802) 560-4032 View (802) 560-4032
Photo of Lisa Lague-Greco, Counselor in Vermont
Lisa Lague-Greco
Counselor, LCMHC, LADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Jeffersonville, VT 05464  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor as well as a Licensed Alcohol & Drug Counselor, experienced working with adolescents, adults, and families with issues around substance abuse, depression, anxiety, self harm, suicidal ideation, grief and loss, and end of life issues. My role is to help you in uncovering answers and to support you in your healing and development. I have great respect for your autonomy and your ability to be empowered to determine your own path, solutions, and direction in life.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor as well as a Licensed Alcohol & Drug Counselor, experienced working with adolescents, adults, and families with issues around substance abuse, depression, anxiety, self harm, suicidal ideation, grief and loss, and end of life issues. My role is to help you in uncovering answers and to support you in your healing and development. I have great respect for your autonomy and your ability to be empowered to determine your own path, solutions, and direction in life.
(802) 281-4504 View (802) 281-4504
Photo of Vera Mikhailova, Counselor in Vermont
Vera Mikhailova
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Colchester, VT 05446
I have over 7 years of experience working with a variety of individuals, adolescents, families, and couples from different backgrounds with a diversity of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, family/relationship issues, self-esteem issues, self-harm, grief, homelessness, domestic violence and substance abuse.
I am a fully-licensed in VT, and as a telehealth provider in FL, I am here to help and support you. Each experience is unique and significant. I work collaboratively with every client to determine individual needs and to provide the best care possible. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where issues, problems, thoughts, and feelings can be discussed without fear of judgment. I am a person-centered counselor with a warm and compassionate style. I believe in treating others with respect and dignity. It is important to me that my clients feel understood, appreciated and their feelings are validated.
I have over 7 years of experience working with a variety of individuals, adolescents, families, and couples from different backgrounds with a diversity of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, family/relationship issues, self-esteem issues, self-harm, grief, homelessness, domestic violence and substance abuse.
I am a fully-licensed in VT, and as a telehealth provider in FL, I am here to help and support you. Each experience is unique and significant. I work collaboratively with every client to determine individual needs and to provide the best care possible. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where issues, problems, thoughts, and feelings can be discussed without fear of judgment. I am a person-centered counselor with a warm and compassionate style. I believe in treating others with respect and dignity. It is important to me that my clients feel understood, appreciated and their feelings are validated.
(802) 494-4476 View (802) 494-4476
Photo of Anne Beaulieu-Baxter, Counselor in Vermont
Anne Beaulieu-Baxter
Counselor, LADC, LCMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Saint Albans, VT 05478  (Online Only)
My experience in the areas of mental health, domestic and sexual violence, substance abuse and co-occurring disorder has been from years of work in a variety of settings.
I have experience working with a diverse population of people within varied settings. My background in the areas of mental health, domestic and sexual violence, substance abuse and co-occurring disorders allows me to be confident in providing the best treatment approaches for the individual. My therapeutic approach is client centered on why a person is entering therapy and what they need and want to achieve. I believe in working with the whole person integrating a holistic approach into therapy.
My experience in the areas of mental health, domestic and sexual violence, substance abuse and co-occurring disorder has been from years of work in a variety of settings.
I have experience working with a diverse population of people within varied settings. My background in the areas of mental health, domestic and sexual violence, substance abuse and co-occurring disorders allows me to be confident in providing the best treatment approaches for the individual. My therapeutic approach is client centered on why a person is entering therapy and what they need and want to achieve. I believe in working with the whole person integrating a holistic approach into therapy.
(802) 347-9401 View (802) 347-9401
Photo of Robert Schicker in Vermont
Robert Schicker
MS
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
) I also support individuals, adolescents, and families navigating the complex issues related to substance use disorders and transition/college age challenges.
Life is full of challenge, hardship, transition, and unknown. Together we create a space for you to explore and address the challenges in your life and where change and healing are possible. Using mindfulness, attachment, somatics, and trauma informed practices that focus on a body, nervous system, mind perspective I will assist you in making the changes you want in life so you can begin taking the steps toward safe healing. You will be supported to understand your needs, create and set healthy boundaries, and develop effective communications skills to improve your relationships which lead to improved self worth and self esteem.
) I also support individuals, adolescents, and families navigating the complex issues related to substance use disorders and transition/college age challenges.
Life is full of challenge, hardship, transition, and unknown. Together we create a space for you to explore and address the challenges in your life and where change and healing are possible. Using mindfulness, attachment, somatics, and trauma informed practices that focus on a body, nervous system, mind perspective I will assist you in making the changes you want in life so you can begin taking the steps toward safe healing. You will be supported to understand your needs, create and set healthy boundaries, and develop effective communications skills to improve your relationships which lead to improved self worth and self esteem.
(802) 391-4328 View (802) 391-4328
Photo of Michael C. Hunter, Counselor in Vermont
Michael C. Hunter
Counselor, LCMHC, LADC
Verified Verified
Shelburne, VT 05482
Adolescence and young adulthood is a difficult time of transformation and change for both young people and their families. The process of identity formation and separation/individuation from the family system can sometimes involve conflict and relational strain for all members of the family. Acting out behaviors, both externally (aggression, disrespect, substance use) and internally (withdrawal, isolation, self harm) can be unhealthy ways of expressing that individuality. Increased rigidity, control and consequence sometimes makes things worse. It's a complicated time with complicated solutions that are different for everyone.
Adolescence and young adulthood is a difficult time of transformation and change for both young people and their families. The process of identity formation and separation/individuation from the family system can sometimes involve conflict and relational strain for all members of the family. Acting out behaviors, both externally (aggression, disrespect, substance use) and internally (withdrawal, isolation, self harm) can be unhealthy ways of expressing that individuality. Increased rigidity, control and consequence sometimes makes things worse. It's a complicated time with complicated solutions that are different for everyone.
(802) 500-7081 View (802) 500-7081
Photo of Kathy Marshall, Counselor in Vermont
Kathy Marshall
Counselor, LCMHC , MLADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vershire, VT 05079  (Online Only)
I believe that even in the most difficult times, there are opportunities to learn about your inner self and develop new perspective that can lead to finding joy and fulfillment in life. I have experience working with adults of all ages who struggle with addiction, depression, anxiety and past trauma. Personal experience with being a caregiver and supporting someone with a chronic illness. My clients are looking for a quiet and safe environment to share and explore their life experi
I believe that even in the most difficult times, there are opportunities to learn about your inner self and develop new perspective that can lead to finding joy and fulfillment in life. I have experience working with adults of all ages who struggle with addiction, depression, anxiety and past trauma. Personal experience with being a caregiver and supporting someone with a chronic illness. My clients are looking for a quiet and safe environment to share and explore their life experi
(802) 357-7293 View (802) 357-7293
Photo of Shawna Delworth, Counselor in Vermont
Shawna Delworth
Counselor, LCMHC, MLADC, ADS
Verified Verified
(Currently Not Accepting New Clients) I provide counseling to people with a range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, chronic pain, PTSD and substance use. I work with clients who are age 14 and older, I enjoy working with people of all ages. My interest in non-invasive techniques and complimentary treatments would likely be attractive to patients with similar interests. I believe that patients have the ability heal their own struggles and my role is to provide support and guidance to patients as they go through this journey.
(Currently Not Accepting New Clients) I provide counseling to people with a range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, chronic pain, PTSD and substance use. I work with clients who are age 14 and older, I enjoy working with people of all ages. My interest in non-invasive techniques and complimentary treatments would likely be attractive to patients with similar interests. I believe that patients have the ability heal their own struggles and my role is to provide support and guidance to patients as they go through this journey.
(833) 590-0097 View (833) 590-0097
Photo of Catherine E O'Grady Lmsw Ladc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vermont
Catherine E O'Grady Lmsw Ladc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAC, ICADC, LADC
Verified Verified
Orleans, VT 05860  (Online Only)
I treat, Mental Health disorders, As well as substance use disorder or a (Combination of both) Co-occurring Disorder.
Hello, I am Catherine O'Grady. I am sole owner of Haze Recovery, I have over 15 years of professional and lived experience. Have you been feeling down, or overly anxious? Has it been difficult to stop or continue to stop using? Is it all of those things? Perhaps you are having a difficult time, coming home or back to your community. Let me help!
I treat, Mental Health disorders, As well as substance use disorder or a (Combination of both) Co-occurring Disorder.
Hello, I am Catherine O'Grady. I am sole owner of Haze Recovery, I have over 15 years of professional and lived experience. Have you been feeling down, or overly anxious? Has it been difficult to stop or continue to stop using? Is it all of those things? Perhaps you are having a difficult time, coming home or back to your community. Let me help!
(475) 445-2156 View (475) 445-2156

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.