Addiction Therapists in Poway, CA

Photo of Julia Rosengren, PsyD, Psychologist
Julia Rosengren
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
Additionally, I am trained in helping concerned significant others (CSOs) of individuals who are wrestling with addictions.
I specialize in addiction/dual diagnosis, but treat various mental health problems as well (depression, anxiety, relationship problems, etc.). I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and a psychodynamic approach, but I alter treatment depending on your needs. Feeling stagnant as well as drug and alcohol concerns are often a result of deeper struggles such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, and obstacles in your daily life. If you are feeling stuck and are grappling with how to move forward I can help guide you through it. *Please say your name when prompted when you call, otherwise your call will not go through.*
Additionally, I am trained in helping concerned significant others (CSOs) of individuals who are wrestling with addictions.
I specialize in addiction/dual diagnosis, but treat various mental health problems as well (depression, anxiety, relationship problems, etc.). I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and a psychodynamic approach, but I alter treatment depending on your needs. Feeling stagnant as well as drug and alcohol concerns are often a result of deeper struggles such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, and obstacles in your daily life. If you are feeling stuck and are grappling with how to move forward I can help guide you through it. *Please say your name when prompted when you call, otherwise your call will not go through.*
(858) 609-8405 View (858) 609-8405
Photo of Julie M Hayden, MRS, MACP, PsyD, Psychologist
Julie M Hayden
Psychologist, MRS, MACP, PsyD
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064
I specialize in alcohol and substance addictions, as well as situations that lead to addictions, such as, chronic mental illness, PTSD, gambling, sex addiction, past trauma and abuse, chronic pain, and more.
Addiction is not a problem to be fixed, but rather a person. I have worked with many people with various addictions and realize that addressing one problem from one perspective is not enough. I specialize in getting to know a person first and then helping that person heal from past hurts, learn skills for problem-solving, improve communication, build strong relationships, practice ways to manage strong emotions, learn to slow down and change their harmful or intrusive thoughts, draw from their faith for strength, develop strong support systems, and with all this, hope of long-term recovery can become reality.
I specialize in alcohol and substance addictions, as well as situations that lead to addictions, such as, chronic mental illness, PTSD, gambling, sex addiction, past trauma and abuse, chronic pain, and more.
Addiction is not a problem to be fixed, but rather a person. I have worked with many people with various addictions and realize that addressing one problem from one perspective is not enough. I specialize in getting to know a person first and then helping that person heal from past hurts, learn skills for problem-solving, improve communication, build strong relationships, practice ways to manage strong emotions, learn to slow down and change their harmful or intrusive thoughts, draw from their faith for strength, develop strong support systems, and with all this, hope of long-term recovery can become reality.
(844) 262-8310 View (844) 262-8310
Photo of Michele R Madson Johnson Formerly Manker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michele R Madson Johnson Formerly Manker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
I feel confident working with individuals struggling with substance abuse issues, mood disorders (depression, anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive disorders), eating disorders, Co-dependency (the injury from growing up in dysfunctional families), Trauma (including sexual trauma).
I like working with individuals, couples, or families who are motivated to examine patterns in their thinking or behavior for positive change. I enjoy working in a collaborative manner where there is an active exchange and where my client is open to feeling some discomfort for change - no pain/no gain. I believe that we are all capable of change through insight and that our upbringing can result in both good and bad habits that are flexible as long as we are conscious. I enjoy bringing in spirituality/meaning of life discussions to further my clients self awareness and growth.
I feel confident working with individuals struggling with substance abuse issues, mood disorders (depression, anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive disorders), eating disorders, Co-dependency (the injury from growing up in dysfunctional families), Trauma (including sexual trauma).
I like working with individuals, couples, or families who are motivated to examine patterns in their thinking or behavior for positive change. I enjoy working in a collaborative manner where there is an active exchange and where my client is open to feeling some discomfort for change - no pain/no gain. I believe that we are all capable of change through insight and that our upbringing can result in both good and bad habits that are flexible as long as we are conscious. I enjoy bringing in spirituality/meaning of life discussions to further my clients self awareness and growth.
(619) 346-4349 View (619) 346-4349
Photo of Ryan Thomas Neace, MA, LPCC, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, Counselor
Ryan Thomas Neace
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064  (Online Only)
I am also very familiar w/anxiety, depression, addiction, sexual/identity struggles, and PTSD.
Understanding ourselves and our lives can be difficult. On the one hand, our inner critics may be so loud, self-examination is torturous. On the other, well-meaning people in our lives may be so eager to validate us that we are never quite sure we're getting a real picture of who we are. So, counseling is essentially about receiving the support to work creatively with all of this noise long enough to allow change to happen in and through you. The only way to do this to let someone get to know the real you. If we can do that, therapy can be a deeply authentic, radically human, even life-changing encounter!
I am also very familiar w/anxiety, depression, addiction, sexual/identity struggles, and PTSD.
Understanding ourselves and our lives can be difficult. On the one hand, our inner critics may be so loud, self-examination is torturous. On the other, well-meaning people in our lives may be so eager to validate us that we are never quite sure we're getting a real picture of who we are. So, counseling is essentially about receiving the support to work creatively with all of this noise long enough to allow change to happen in and through you. The only way to do this to let someone get to know the real you. If we can do that, therapy can be a deeply authentic, radically human, even life-changing encounter!
(760) 824-3092 View (760) 824-3092
Photo of Susan Willett, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Willett
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064
My background in various treatment centers also led me to work with addiction, alcoholism, the LGBTQ community, transgender, and HIV.
My background was in the creative arts, and I use that often in my relationships with clients. My concentration is on neural-plasticity (which is basically the science of how the brain can change old thinking patterns with practice.) I think the combination of creativity and science makes for good therapy, while warmth and humor make for a great relationship. Initially, I work with depression and anxiety, generally taking a "family systems" approach. In other words, how your upbringing and early experiences impact your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors today.
My background in various treatment centers also led me to work with addiction, alcoholism, the LGBTQ community, transgender, and HIV.
My background was in the creative arts, and I use that often in my relationships with clients. My concentration is on neural-plasticity (which is basically the science of how the brain can change old thinking patterns with practice.) I think the combination of creativity and science makes for good therapy, while warmth and humor make for a great relationship. Initially, I work with depression and anxiety, generally taking a "family systems" approach. In other words, how your upbringing and early experiences impact your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors today.
(858) 367-9118 View (858) 367-9118
Photo of Couples And Individual Therapy Intensives, PhD, Psychologist
Couples And Individual Therapy Intensives
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064
I provide Couples and Individual therapy in both traditional formats (meeting weekly) and also acute care (meeting multiple hours in one sitting). This can be helpful for individuals who are experiencing in a crisis in their marriage or would like to make progress more quickly than what once-a-week therapy can offer. My specialties range from relationship problems, infidelity, anxiety, addiction, trauma, and depression. I have over two decades of experience and have a lot of fulfillment in my work clients, providing relief, insight, and guiding you in a path forward.
I provide Couples and Individual therapy in both traditional formats (meeting weekly) and also acute care (meeting multiple hours in one sitting). This can be helpful for individuals who are experiencing in a crisis in their marriage or would like to make progress more quickly than what once-a-week therapy can offer. My specialties range from relationship problems, infidelity, anxiety, addiction, trauma, and depression. I have over two decades of experience and have a lot of fulfillment in my work clients, providing relief, insight, and guiding you in a path forward.
(858) 762-9883 View (858) 762-9883
Jean Sullivan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064
I have been helping others improve their mental and emotional well-being for over 25 years. I enjoy working with all ages (infancy through adulthood and old age). I am equipped to handle severe mental illness and crises as well as difficult life transitions and stressful times. As a former Navy Psychologist I work exceptionally well in areas related to military service and traumatic stress and substance use disorders. I work in a collaborative way to find the most effective treatment for you. By the end of your first session, we have identified the problems to work on and a plan to help.
I have been helping others improve their mental and emotional well-being for over 25 years. I enjoy working with all ages (infancy through adulthood and old age). I am equipped to handle severe mental illness and crises as well as difficult life transitions and stressful times. As a former Navy Psychologist I work exceptionally well in areas related to military service and traumatic stress and substance use disorders. I work in a collaborative way to find the most effective treatment for you. By the end of your first session, we have identified the problems to work on and a plan to help.
(858) 207-3856 View (858) 207-3856
Photo of Vangie Akridge, PsyD, LEP
Vangie Akridge
Licensed Educational Psychologist, PsyD, LEP
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064
I have expertise in, psychological-educational assessment, special education law, specific learning disabilities, ADHD, mental illness (as it pertains to school functioning), alcohol/ substance abuse, and other factors that impact teens.
Being a teenager can be hard and being a parent of a teenager can be challenging. Knowing that we all desire for children to be emotionally well adjusted and academically successful, it is sometimes necessary to seek support. I am available to support your family through the journey of adolescence and can provide you with valuable information about your child's learning abilities and emotional functioning and tools to navigate the education system. You are not alone. I am here to support you.
I have expertise in, psychological-educational assessment, special education law, specific learning disabilities, ADHD, mental illness (as it pertains to school functioning), alcohol/ substance abuse, and other factors that impact teens.
Being a teenager can be hard and being a parent of a teenager can be challenging. Knowing that we all desire for children to be emotionally well adjusted and academically successful, it is sometimes necessary to seek support. I am available to support your family through the journey of adolescence and can provide you with valuable information about your child's learning abilities and emotional functioning and tools to navigate the education system. You are not alone. I am here to support you.
(619) 870-1957 View (619) 870-1957
Photo of Jennifer Sage, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Sage
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Jennifer Sage, a dedicated Licensed Marriage and Family therapist specializing in working with adults facing anxiety, depression, trauma and addiction. With expertise in various therapies, I provide a compassionate and holistic approach to help you navigate your challenges, heal past wounds, and empower you on your journey towards growth and well-being. When faced with trauma and adversity, self esteem and self worth are often impacted, and feelings of unsafety and poor self image are often present. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults in healing from life's challenges and coming back to self.
Hi! I'm Jennifer Sage, a dedicated Licensed Marriage and Family therapist specializing in working with adults facing anxiety, depression, trauma and addiction. With expertise in various therapies, I provide a compassionate and holistic approach to help you navigate your challenges, heal past wounds, and empower you on your journey towards growth and well-being. When faced with trauma and adversity, self esteem and self worth are often impacted, and feelings of unsafety and poor self image are often present. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults in healing from life's challenges and coming back to self.
(760) 425-4438 View (760) 425-4438
Photo of Linda Spirra, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda Spirra
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064
I provide nurturing, compassionate and supportive therapy to individuals, families, including military personnel. I work with adolescents and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, issues of self-worth, substance use, grief, loss, and self-harm. I recently ran an intensive outpatient program for people with acute mental health issues in a hospital based environment, and enjoy working with this population as well.
I provide nurturing, compassionate and supportive therapy to individuals, families, including military personnel. I work with adolescents and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, issues of self-worth, substance use, grief, loss, and self-harm. I recently ran an intensive outpatient program for people with acute mental health issues in a hospital based environment, and enjoy working with this population as well.
(619) 330-8727 View (619) 330-8727
Photo of Morgan Brown - Morgan Brown, CADC-I | Bloom Family Therapy, CADC-I, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Morgan Brown, CADC-I | Bloom Family Therapy
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064  (Online Only)
At Bloom Therapy, I specialize in the areas of adoption, justice-involved youth and co-occurring disorders as they relate to underlying causes of substance use disorders.
With a warm and empathetic approach, my hopes are to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore underlying causes of addiction. Together we will create personalized coping strategies for a healthy tomorrow. My passion lies with teens and young adults who struggle with substance use as I relate to this population on a deep level.
At Bloom Therapy, I specialize in the areas of adoption, justice-involved youth and co-occurring disorders as they relate to underlying causes of substance use disorders.
With a warm and empathetic approach, my hopes are to create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore underlying causes of addiction. Together we will create personalized coping strategies for a healthy tomorrow. My passion lies with teens and young adults who struggle with substance use as I relate to this population on a deep level.
(619) 815-3314 View (619) 815-3314
Photo of Lauren Rutledge, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Rutledge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064
My background has been working with individuals who are dealing with anxiety, grief, difficulties with life transitions, trauma and PTSD, depression, and addiction (e.
My name is Lauren, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Calistoga, California where I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults. I specialize in anxiety, grief, life transitions, trauma, PTSD, and addiction. Depending on the needs of each client, I like to explore cognitive, affective, and somatic approaches to support them in experiencing well-being.
My background has been working with individuals who are dealing with anxiety, grief, difficulties with life transitions, trauma and PTSD, depression, and addiction (e.
My name is Lauren, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Calistoga, California where I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults. I specialize in anxiety, grief, life transitions, trauma, PTSD, and addiction. Depending on the needs of each client, I like to explore cognitive, affective, and somatic approaches to support them in experiencing well-being.
(661) 485-4657 View (661) 485-4657
Photo of Mauricio Perdomo, MA, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist
Mauricio Perdomo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual therapist who has experience working with both English and Spanish speaking individuals, couples, men, children, adolescents, young adults, and families in the areas of trauma, marital issues, men issues, childhood abuse, addictions, depression, anxiety, and family conflict.
My passion is to help families, marriages and individuals know personal and relational healing. I believe that we all have unique life experiences that shape who we are and how we connect with others. Sometimes these experiences do not foster compassion or the ability to connect with those you love in the way in which you desire. I understand this; it is part of my story, too! I hope to join you in the process of healing to not go it alone.
I am a bilingual therapist who has experience working with both English and Spanish speaking individuals, couples, men, children, adolescents, young adults, and families in the areas of trauma, marital issues, men issues, childhood abuse, addictions, depression, anxiety, and family conflict.
My passion is to help families, marriages and individuals know personal and relational healing. I believe that we all have unique life experiences that shape who we are and how we connect with others. Sometimes these experiences do not foster compassion or the ability to connect with those you love in the way in which you desire. I understand this; it is part of my story, too! I hope to join you in the process of healing to not go it alone.
(858) 213-0328 x4 View (858) 213-0328 x4
Photo of John Lee Evans Psychologist, PhD, Psychologist
John Lee Evans Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064
Whether you are an executive, a professional athlete or a frustrated parent, you want someone who will help you overcome depression, anxiety, addictions and many other problems.
People want straight talk from a psychologist, not psychobabble. They don’t want a passive therapist who just listens. Nor do they want a know-it-all to tell them exactly what to do. They want a competent psychologist who gives real feedback about what he sees going on. They want someone with real life experience who can relate to their problems as a professional, a parent or a child. Before becoming a psychologist, Dr. Evans had experience serving in the Peace Corps, running a business, getting married and having children.
Whether you are an executive, a professional athlete or a frustrated parent, you want someone who will help you overcome depression, anxiety, addictions and many other problems.
People want straight talk from a psychologist, not psychobabble. They don’t want a passive therapist who just listens. Nor do they want a know-it-all to tell them exactly what to do. They want a competent psychologist who gives real feedback about what he sees going on. They want someone with real life experience who can relate to their problems as a professional, a parent or a child. Before becoming a psychologist, Dr. Evans had experience serving in the Peace Corps, running a business, getting married and having children.
(858) 673-9600 View (858) 673-9600
Photo of Tanya Wardner, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tanya Wardner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
Do you feel that something is missing but you don’t know what it is, or how to get it? Maybe you’re not as happy as you thought you’d be at this stage of your life or maybe you’re busier than you ever imagined and have difficulty taking time for yourself. Do you find yourself wondering, Will things get better? Will I ever feel truly happy? Is this all there is?
Do you feel that something is missing but you don’t know what it is, or how to get it? Maybe you’re not as happy as you thought you’d be at this stage of your life or maybe you’re busier than you ever imagined and have difficulty taking time for yourself. Do you find yourself wondering, Will things get better? Will I ever feel truly happy? Is this all there is?
(657) 233-3919 View (657) 233-3919
Barbara Fouts
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
As a Marriage/Family therapist and Educational Psychologist I assist individuals, families, couples and children overcome difficulties and begin the process of change in a safe, supportive environment. I specialize in Behavioral Issues, PTSD, relationships, parenting, effective communication, grief and loss, ADHD and Life Transitions. I help the whole person within their family, social environment and community. As a therapist and person I am committed to helping my clients create their journey through life in a positive, affirming manner.
As a Marriage/Family therapist and Educational Psychologist I assist individuals, families, couples and children overcome difficulties and begin the process of change in a safe, supportive environment. I specialize in Behavioral Issues, PTSD, relationships, parenting, effective communication, grief and loss, ADHD and Life Transitions. I help the whole person within their family, social environment and community. As a therapist and person I am committed to helping my clients create their journey through life in a positive, affirming manner.
(858) 381-5633 View (858) 381-5633
Photo of Theresa Walker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theresa Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
I am an LCSW therapist located in Poway California. I specialize in EMDR therapy, PTSD, domestic violence, children's play therapy, grief and loss issues and self esteem building. I see individuals, couples, families and have group therapy sessions. I am committed to helping individuals, couples and families develop the relationships they desire among other people and themselves. My office is a safe place to begin the process of change and help people learn the tools needed in order to make the desired changes.
I am an LCSW therapist located in Poway California. I specialize in EMDR therapy, PTSD, domestic violence, children's play therapy, grief and loss issues and self esteem building. I see individuals, couples, families and have group therapy sessions. I am committed to helping individuals, couples and families develop the relationships they desire among other people and themselves. My office is a safe place to begin the process of change and help people learn the tools needed in order to make the desired changes.
(858) 386-4709 View (858) 386-4709
Photo of Miriam Chor Freitas - Miriam Chor Freitas, LCSW., LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miriam Chor Freitas, LCSW.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064
Are you struggling with difficulties that are robbing you of your ability to be present and experience physical and emotional health and peace of mind in your life today? Are you ready to transform your life? So let's do this! I'm a therapist who has worked with very diverse clients on trauma and a variety of other mental health issues and challenging life circumstances for over 15 years. It's is not our difficulties that define us but our willingness to recognize the problem and start the journey towards health and healing.
Are you struggling with difficulties that are robbing you of your ability to be present and experience physical and emotional health and peace of mind in your life today? Are you ready to transform your life? So let's do this! I'm a therapist who has worked with very diverse clients on trauma and a variety of other mental health issues and challenging life circumstances for over 15 years. It's is not our difficulties that define us but our willingness to recognize the problem and start the journey towards health and healing.
(858) 256-7984 View (858) 256-7984
Photo of Marsha Orman, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marsha Orman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064  (Online Only)
My work is based on the belief that by working together, we can improve the quality of your life. Many of my clients are in stressful life situations that have caused them to turn to such destructive behaviors as misuse of alcohol and drugs, over-eating, or over-working. Many haven't learned how to communicate in a way that promotes satisfying relationships. Within a safe, non-judgmental environment where you are truly listened to, we'll work together to help you understand how some of your behaviors and thoughts may not be serving you well.
My work is based on the belief that by working together, we can improve the quality of your life. Many of my clients are in stressful life situations that have caused them to turn to such destructive behaviors as misuse of alcohol and drugs, over-eating, or over-working. Many haven't learned how to communicate in a way that promotes satisfying relationships. Within a safe, non-judgmental environment where you are truly listened to, we'll work together to help you understand how some of your behaviors and thoughts may not be serving you well.
(858) 375-4159 View (858) 375-4159
Photo of Kathleen Stewart, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathleen Stewart
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Poway, CA 92064  (Online Only)
Things in life aren't going how you want? Are you stressed all the time? Maybe you feel sad, mad, or lost, and others don't understand. Sometimes life looks okay from the outside, but it doesn't feel that way. Has your relationship changed and you're not sure how to fix it? I'm here to help! Let's look at what you want, what you need, and how we can work together to help you move toward making your life satisfying. I enjoy helping people work toward making their lives more content, more fulfilling, and characterized by happier relationships. Feel free to reach out for a consultation to see if I seem like a good fit.
Things in life aren't going how you want? Are you stressed all the time? Maybe you feel sad, mad, or lost, and others don't understand. Sometimes life looks okay from the outside, but it doesn't feel that way. Has your relationship changed and you're not sure how to fix it? I'm here to help! Let's look at what you want, what you need, and how we can work together to help you move toward making your life satisfying. I enjoy helping people work toward making their lives more content, more fulfilling, and characterized by happier relationships. Feel free to reach out for a consultation to see if I seem like a good fit.
(858) 260-2759 View (858) 260-2759
1
Addiction Therapists

What is the best therapy for addiction?

Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.

How long does therapy for addiction take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.

How effective is drug addiction treatment?

Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?

The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.