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 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 Liza Ryan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Vermont
Liza Ryan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, CRC
Verified Verified
Johnson, VT 05656  (Online Only)
Welcome! Green Peaks Counseling works with clients who present with symptoms related to Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Substance Use Disorder/Alcohol Use Disorder. My practice's approach is person centered and I believe in working towards building a strong therapeutic alliance in order to build trust and predictability within a therapeutic relationship. My practice promotes the concept of harm reduction and strongly encourages multiple paths to recovery.
Welcome! Green Peaks Counseling works with clients who present with symptoms related to Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Substance Use Disorder/Alcohol Use Disorder. My practice's approach is person centered and I believe in working towards building a strong therapeutic alliance in order to build trust and predictability within a therapeutic relationship. My practice promotes the concept of harm reduction and strongly encourages multiple paths to recovery.
(802) 880-8554 View (802) 880-8554
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 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 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 Rick Barnett, Psychologist in Vermont
Rick Barnett
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, MS, LADC
Verified Verified
Stowe, VT 05672
NOTE: Expertise in addiction, online therapy, and medication allows for confidence in treatment/consultation services.
Expanding my practice to include Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. Consultation available for psychedelic medicine preparation and integration. I convey understanding and optimism which may enhance a sense of meaning, awareness, and hope. I offer secure Online and Text-Based Consultations using various platforms. Some insurance accepted. Some prefer self-payment outside of insurance for privacy. Monthly subscription for text-based option using SIGNAL app.
NOTE: Expertise in addiction, online therapy, and medication allows for confidence in treatment/consultation services.
Expanding my practice to include Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. Consultation available for psychedelic medicine preparation and integration. I convey understanding and optimism which may enhance a sense of meaning, awareness, and hope. I offer secure Online and Text-Based Consultations using various platforms. Some insurance accepted. Some prefer self-payment outside of insurance for privacy. Monthly subscription for text-based option using SIGNAL app.
(802) 222-0105 View (802) 222-0105
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 Sandra Nigolian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vermont
Sandra Nigolian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05408
I have experience with acute mental health crisis, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, adoption, ADHD, substance misuse, and a variety of other life situations.
Life presents challenges sometimes. Learning how to access our resiliency, explore negative thought patterns, and strengthen new positive beliefs assists us in creating and maintaining a thriving daily life. I recognize that each person is diverse, having a unique family, social, and cultural history, and that healing and growth can be dependent on numerous factors. I use therapy methods that help bridge communication with children, youth and adults. I hold also hold BA in studio art that contributes to the creativity element of my work with individuals.
I have experience with acute mental health crisis, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, adoption, ADHD, substance misuse, and a variety of other life situations.
Life presents challenges sometimes. Learning how to access our resiliency, explore negative thought patterns, and strengthen new positive beliefs assists us in creating and maintaining a thriving daily life. I recognize that each person is diverse, having a unique family, social, and cultural history, and that healing and growth can be dependent on numerous factors. I use therapy methods that help bridge communication with children, youth and adults. I hold also hold BA in studio art that contributes to the creativity element of my work with individuals.
(802) 255-9991 View (802) 255-9991
Photo of Cassandra Hulihan McLaren, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vermont
Cassandra Hulihan McLaren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brattleboro, VT 05301
Trauma, adjustment, grief, loss, depression, anxiety, and substance use concerns are some of my specialties.
I realize searching for a therapist can be a daunting process; whether you know the specific issue you want to work on or you’re simply unsure, but you just “know” (or have been told) you could use a skilled therapist. I bring to this work my experience, my knowledge, my empathy and humor. I will ask you to walk this journey with me as we explore the paths to growth.
Trauma, adjustment, grief, loss, depression, anxiety, and substance use concerns are some of my specialties.
I realize searching for a therapist can be a daunting process; whether you know the specific issue you want to work on or you’re simply unsure, but you just “know” (or have been told) you could use a skilled therapist. I bring to this work my experience, my knowledge, my empathy and humor. I will ask you to walk this journey with me as we explore the paths to growth.
(802) 466-5132 View (802) 466-5132
Photo of Edward Spaulding, Pre-Licensed Professional in Vermont
Edward Spaulding
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Waitsfield, VT 05673  (Online Only)
Clinical interests are helping clients who suffer from ailments that pose challenges to their physical & mental health, such as traumatic brain injuries & other neurological disorders, cancer, chronic cardiac & respiratory conditions, diabetes & weight management, immune-compromised & other chronic conditions, trauma, drug & alcohol use, abuse, & addiction.
Clients typically come to me seeking support and therapy for chronic conditions that involve managing high stress, understanding the mental health impacts of ailments, and treatment for conditions that can be addressed with outpatient therapy.
Clinical interests are helping clients who suffer from ailments that pose challenges to their physical & mental health, such as traumatic brain injuries & other neurological disorders, cancer, chronic cardiac & respiratory conditions, diabetes & weight management, immune-compromised & other chronic conditions, trauma, drug & alcohol use, abuse, & addiction.
Clients typically come to me seeking support and therapy for chronic conditions that involve managing high stress, understanding the mental health impacts of ailments, and treatment for conditions that can be addressed with outpatient therapy.
(802) 327-7867 View (802) 327-7867
Photo of Abigail Hannah Ruble, Counselor in Vermont
Abigail Hannah Ruble
Counselor, MA, Ed, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Vergennes, VT 05491  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with clients of any age and from all walks of life. I have worked in treatment facilities with individuals and families focusing on addiction issues, trauma, behavior management, modification, and effective communications strategies. Examining a person and their experiences, creating a holistic approach is important to me and the success of my client. Part of this holistic approach is exploring past experiences, patterns in life, and creating opportunities for resiliency of self. I have a masters in school counseling, and help families with schools and transition planning. I have also completed all of my addiction counseling courses, and continue my professional development.
I enjoy working with clients of any age and from all walks of life. I have worked in treatment facilities with individuals and families focusing on addiction issues, trauma, behavior management, modification, and effective communications strategies. Examining a person and their experiences, creating a holistic approach is important to me and the success of my client. Part of this holistic approach is exploring past experiences, patterns in life, and creating opportunities for resiliency of self. I have a masters in school counseling, and help families with schools and transition planning. I have also completed all of my addiction counseling courses, and continue my professional development.
(802) 210-3786 View (802) 210-3786
Photo of Eva Simon, Counselor in Vermont
Eva Simon
Counselor, MACP, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winooski, VT 05404
Depression, anxiety, shame, addiction, life transition, spiritual unfolding, loss and grief, feelings of abandonment, uncertainty as to how to maintain satisfying relationships, are some of the issues which prompt individuals to seek me out.
I am a psychotherapist and bodyworker in private practice for over28 years. I bring curiosity, compassion, and respect to my work with young adults and adults. I see our work as a dance between an interactive exchange and thoughtful reflection. Calling on the wisdom of many approaches, including Somatic Experiencing [Body- Based], Psychodrama, the work of Murray Bowen [Family Systems], and mindfulness practices, I work with individuals addressing a wide range of issues. Much of my work is focused on relationship and attachment. I especially work with individuals who have had challenging or traumatic relational histories.
Depression, anxiety, shame, addiction, life transition, spiritual unfolding, loss and grief, feelings of abandonment, uncertainty as to how to maintain satisfying relationships, are some of the issues which prompt individuals to seek me out.
I am a psychotherapist and bodyworker in private practice for over28 years. I bring curiosity, compassion, and respect to my work with young adults and adults. I see our work as a dance between an interactive exchange and thoughtful reflection. Calling on the wisdom of many approaches, including Somatic Experiencing [Body- Based], Psychodrama, the work of Murray Bowen [Family Systems], and mindfulness practices, I work with individuals addressing a wide range of issues. Much of my work is focused on relationship and attachment. I especially work with individuals who have had challenging or traumatic relational histories.
(802) 339-0765 View (802) 339-0765
Photo of Nick Doolittle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Vermont
Nick Doolittle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Norwich, VT 05055
Waitlist for new clients
My treatment specialties include: anxiety and depression, teens, family therapy, addiction, major life changes, grief and loss, couples counseling, and coping with chronic disease/pain.
Therapy is about healing. It's about bringing careful attention to emotional wounds (both old and new) and working with the difficult mental/emotional patterns that interfere with our ability to be healthy and happy. In my practice, I create a client-centered, safe, and confidential environment that makes this work both possible and rewarding. I participate fully in the client's process, holding the space that can allow healing to occur. Most would describe my style as interactive and relational. Depending on the client and presenting need, my treatment modality ranges between Cognitive-Behavioral, mindfulness-based, and psychodynamic.
My treatment specialties include: anxiety and depression, teens, family therapy, addiction, major life changes, grief and loss, couples counseling, and coping with chronic disease/pain.
Therapy is about healing. It's about bringing careful attention to emotional wounds (both old and new) and working with the difficult mental/emotional patterns that interfere with our ability to be healthy and happy. In my practice, I create a client-centered, safe, and confidential environment that makes this work both possible and rewarding. I participate fully in the client's process, holding the space that can allow healing to occur. Most would describe my style as interactive and relational. Depending on the client and presenting need, my treatment modality ranges between Cognitive-Behavioral, mindfulness-based, and psychodynamic.
(724) 987-5643 View (724) 987-5643
Photo of Dean Hammer, Psychologist in Vermont
Dean Hammer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
My areas of specialization include the treatment of anxiety and depression, substance abuse and eating disorders, and couples/family problems.
I am very fortune to have practiced as a psychotherapist for thirty years--providing treatment to clients ranging from young adults to those in their elder years. Depending on clients' need, I provide brief term counseling as well as longer term treatment. I employ a variety of approaches in my counseling including: Narrative, Cognitive-Behavioral, Relational, and Mediation therapies.
My areas of specialization include the treatment of anxiety and depression, substance abuse and eating disorders, and couples/family problems.
I am very fortune to have practiced as a psychotherapist for thirty years--providing treatment to clients ranging from young adults to those in their elder years. Depending on clients' need, I provide brief term counseling as well as longer term treatment. I employ a variety of approaches in my counseling including: Narrative, Cognitive-Behavioral, Relational, and Mediation therapies.
(802) 662-2641 View (802) 662-2641
Photo of Keri Kritchman, Counselor in Vermont
Keri Kritchman
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Middlesex, VT 05602  (Online Only)
I am a Vermont-Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with a private practice in Central VT. I have been in this field for over 25 years. I take a heart-centered approach to meeting others where they are. I believe in creating an authentic and therapeutic relationship with my clients. I specialize in treating individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, self-harm, and substance use.
I am a Vermont-Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with a private practice in Central VT. I have been in this field for over 25 years. I take a heart-centered approach to meeting others where they are. I believe in creating an authentic and therapeutic relationship with my clients. I specialize in treating individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, self-harm, and substance use.
(802) 392-0942 View (802) 392-0942
Photo of Alexandra Scarlett, Psychologist in Vermont
Alexandra Scarlett
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Saxtons River, VT 05154  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have had over 20 years of experience in private practice treating children, adults, families and couples in a rural area. I am well-versed in common issues such as adjustment disorders, depression and anxiety, childhood trauma and substance abuse and recovery.
I have had over 20 years of experience in private practice treating children, adults, families and couples in a rural area. I am well-versed in common issues such as adjustment disorders, depression and anxiety, childhood trauma and substance abuse and recovery.
(802) 424-9683 View (802) 424-9683
Photo of Alex M. Torstrick, Psychologist in Vermont
Alex M. Torstrick
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
A neuropsychological evaluation can provide valuable information regarding an individual's current and future cognitive functioning. My specialty involves the assessment of cognition across a wide span of central nervous system disorders including neurodegenerative conditions (e.g., Alzheimer's disease), traumatic brain injury (TBI), substance abuse, attention deficit syndromes, and autistic spectrum disorder. My work examines the relationship between brain disease and cognition while differentiating the contribution of psychological factors such as depression or anxiety. I also perform independent medical examinations (IME).
A neuropsychological evaluation can provide valuable information regarding an individual's current and future cognitive functioning. My specialty involves the assessment of cognition across a wide span of central nervous system disorders including neurodegenerative conditions (e.g., Alzheimer's disease), traumatic brain injury (TBI), substance abuse, attention deficit syndromes, and autistic spectrum disorder. My work examines the relationship between brain disease and cognition while differentiating the contribution of psychological factors such as depression or anxiety. I also perform independent medical examinations (IME).
(802) 402-4449 View (802) 402-4449
Photo of Steven Ferrari, Pre-Licensed Professional in Vermont
Steven Ferrari
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barre, VT 05641
***Limited Spaces Available. Currently Accepting New Clients. Due to the large amount of families that I see, I can only accept new, adult individuals at this time. I'm available in Barre, VT*** Throughout my years in the field of mental health I've had the incredible opportunity to work with a wide range of clients from several different cultures, backgrounds, and socio-economic status. In addition to my strong clinical background, I have also worked in the field of forensics and substance abuse recovery.
***Limited Spaces Available. Currently Accepting New Clients. Due to the large amount of families that I see, I can only accept new, adult individuals at this time. I'm available in Barre, VT*** Throughout my years in the field of mental health I've had the incredible opportunity to work with a wide range of clients from several different cultures, backgrounds, and socio-economic status. In addition to my strong clinical background, I have also worked in the field of forensics and substance abuse recovery.
(802) 521-0135 View (802) 521-0135
Photo of Wesley Wolter, Counselor in Vermont
Wesley Wolter
Counselor, MS, MA, LCMHC , LADC, RYT500
Verified Verified
Fairlee, VT 05045
I work differently then most through my approach to help addiction challenges and mental health.
Hello, I am currently offering vid/tele counseling and in-person psychotherapy. I have 15 years of mental health experience and created Milldale Farm Ctr4Wellness. I focus on developing a safe and trusting relationship offering alternative approach’s through empowering you and your greatest qualities to navigate addictions, trauma and other mental health issues, for all people of all ages. I specialize in treating trauma related challenges through offering EMDR, IFS,specific mind/body therapies, holistic wellness, breath-work and soon psycadelic psychotherapy. Look forward to meeting the amazing you and being of service.
I work differently then most through my approach to help addiction challenges and mental health.
Hello, I am currently offering vid/tele counseling and in-person psychotherapy. I have 15 years of mental health experience and created Milldale Farm Ctr4Wellness. I focus on developing a safe and trusting relationship offering alternative approach’s through empowering you and your greatest qualities to navigate addictions, trauma and other mental health issues, for all people of all ages. I specialize in treating trauma related challenges through offering EMDR, IFS,specific mind/body therapies, holistic wellness, breath-work and soon psycadelic psychotherapy. Look forward to meeting the amazing you and being of service.
(802) 613-0309 View (802) 613-0309
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.