Photo of Solid Ground Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washtenaw County, MI
Solid Ground Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48106
Waitlist for new clients
I have been working in this field for nearly 15 years, and specialize in treating PTSD, trauma, addiction, mental health conditions, dysfunctional relationship issues, unhealthy/maladaptive coping patterns, and more.
If you are making the brave decision to seek out therapy, I sincerely commend you! You are taking a very courageous first step, one that can lead to potential life-changing healing and wholeness. Perhaps you are stuck in the damaging aftermath of trauma/abuse, and you cannot seem to pull yourself out of the nightmare of the past. Or perhaps you have felt your life torn apart and controlled by the claws of an addiction, and you feel helplessly stuck in the cycle of your habit. Or possibly you have been struggling all alone with the silent symptoms of a mental illness, and you are too afraid or ashamed to reach out and ask for help.
I have been working in this field for nearly 15 years, and specialize in treating PTSD, trauma, addiction, mental health conditions, dysfunctional relationship issues, unhealthy/maladaptive coping patterns, and more.
If you are making the brave decision to seek out therapy, I sincerely commend you! You are taking a very courageous first step, one that can lead to potential life-changing healing and wholeness. Perhaps you are stuck in the damaging aftermath of trauma/abuse, and you cannot seem to pull yourself out of the nightmare of the past. Or perhaps you have felt your life torn apart and controlled by the claws of an addiction, and you feel helplessly stuck in the cycle of your habit. Or possibly you have been struggling all alone with the silent symptoms of a mental illness, and you are too afraid or ashamed to reach out and ask for help.
(810) 374-0232 View (810) 374-0232
Photo of Chris Chandler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washtenaw County, MI
Chris Chandler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMHC, CSAT-S, AF-EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ypsilanti, MI 48197  (Online Only)
My passion is helping people build healthy and meaningful lives. I am a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist trained by Dr. Patrick Carnes, the pioneer in the field of sex addiction. I have extensive experience working with individuals struggling with all forms of addictions and compulsive behaviors including: sex, pornography, drugs, alcohol, food, work, spending, codependent relationships, etc. I use Attachment-Focused EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and Lifespan Integration to help people become free from underlying relational/attachment wounds.
My passion is helping people build healthy and meaningful lives. I am a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist trained by Dr. Patrick Carnes, the pioneer in the field of sex addiction. I have extensive experience working with individuals struggling with all forms of addictions and compulsive behaviors including: sex, pornography, drugs, alcohol, food, work, spending, codependent relationships, etc. I use Attachment-Focused EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and Lifespan Integration to help people become free from underlying relational/attachment wounds.
(305) 419-3830 View (305) 419-3830
Photo of Jason Berry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washtenaw County, MI
Jason Berry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ypsilanti, MI 48197  (Online Only)
If you're struggling in relationships or with anxiety, stress, depression, grief, loss, trauma, or addiction, I can help you. You don't have to cope alone. The knowledge and experience I have gained throughout years of providing counseling has given me the skills and understanding needed to improve the lives of others and create lasting change.
If you're struggling in relationships or with anxiety, stress, depression, grief, loss, trauma, or addiction, I can help you. You don't have to cope alone. The knowledge and experience I have gained throughout years of providing counseling has given me the skills and understanding needed to improve the lives of others and create lasting change.
(734) 472-2486 View (734) 472-2486
Photo of Thomas Litzinger, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Washtenaw County, MI
Thomas Litzinger
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, EdD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dexter, MI 48130
My desire is to assist clients with healing and restoration. Clients who are grappling with anxiety, depression, and addictions often find healing from my approach. Clients who are focused on breaking the bonds of addiction are treated with dignity and respect and given a clear and distinct treatment path.
My desire is to assist clients with healing and restoration. Clients who are grappling with anxiety, depression, and addictions often find healing from my approach. Clients who are focused on breaking the bonds of addiction are treated with dignity and respect and given a clear and distinct treatment path.
(810) 631-1450 View (810) 631-1450
Photo of Integrity House Treatment Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washtenaw County, MI
Integrity House Treatment Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, SAP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48109  (Online Only)
My work includes co-occuring disorders such as Depression and Substance Abuse, Bipolar and Borderline Personality Disorder and comorbidity of diseases such as Diabetes, Cancer, Substance Abuse and Mental Illness.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to assist you in your time of need. I will provide you with empathy, compassion and understanding, with recommendations, insight, hope and truth as necessary for recovery. I am proficient in addictions including drugs/alcohol, codependency, and religion. I have treated multitudes of people with these complex problems . I have also counseled numerous people with severe mental illness including Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, and others. Both addiction and mental illness are chronic, debilitating disorders that can be arrested and treated for you to live a life with hope.
My work includes co-occuring disorders such as Depression and Substance Abuse, Bipolar and Borderline Personality Disorder and comorbidity of diseases such as Diabetes, Cancer, Substance Abuse and Mental Illness.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to assist you in your time of need. I will provide you with empathy, compassion and understanding, with recommendations, insight, hope and truth as necessary for recovery. I am proficient in addictions including drugs/alcohol, codependency, and religion. I have treated multitudes of people with these complex problems . I have also counseled numerous people with severe mental illness including Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, and others. Both addiction and mental illness are chronic, debilitating disorders that can be arrested and treated for you to live a life with hope.
(313) 334-7651 View (313) 334-7651
Photo of Michael Wenisch, Counselor in Washtenaw County, MI
Michael Wenisch
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
I specialize in sex and internet pornography addiction. I work one-on-one with indivuals, couples, families, and those attracted to minors. My primary treatment goal is to help the sexually addicted individual overcome the addiction and find inner healing. Additionally, I work to promote healing within badly damaged intimate relationships. Initially, I aim to help clients gain immediate relief from the feelings of overwhelm and distress that brought them to counseling to begin with. Subsequently, I collaborate with clients to diagnose and heal the deeper sources and causes of their suffering and addiction.
I specialize in sex and internet pornography addiction. I work one-on-one with indivuals, couples, families, and those attracted to minors. My primary treatment goal is to help the sexually addicted individual overcome the addiction and find inner healing. Additionally, I work to promote healing within badly damaged intimate relationships. Initially, I aim to help clients gain immediate relief from the feelings of overwhelm and distress that brought them to counseling to begin with. Subsequently, I collaborate with clients to diagnose and heal the deeper sources and causes of their suffering and addiction.
(517) 594-4966 View (517) 594-4966
Photo of Matt Waddell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washtenaw County, MI
Matt Waddell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
Openings available! I take an approach to therapy that is centered on building trust and a belief that clients know themselves the best. I feel it is important to form a relationship that becomes the framework that leads to understanding and change. I have provided therapy to young adults/adults in various settings and worked with individuals facing different concerns including anxiety, depression, substance use, adjustment-related stress, difficult relationship dynamics, grief/loss, and identity development. I also specialize in working with those who have been impacted by a loved one's addiction.
Openings available! I take an approach to therapy that is centered on building trust and a belief that clients know themselves the best. I feel it is important to form a relationship that becomes the framework that leads to understanding and change. I have provided therapy to young adults/adults in various settings and worked with individuals facing different concerns including anxiety, depression, substance use, adjustment-related stress, difficult relationship dynamics, grief/loss, and identity development. I also specialize in working with those who have been impacted by a loved one's addiction.
(734) 436-3972 View (734) 436-3972
Photo of Genera Fields, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washtenaw County, MI
Genera Fields
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ypsilanti, MI 48197  (Online Only)
I have a particular interest in trauma-informed care, Substance-use recovery, ADHD/AuDHD management, building boundaries, learning self-esteem/self-trust, and working with queer and BIPOC individuals and families who have been marginalized based on their identity.
Holistic wellness is about finding a seat in a world increasingly marked by systemic barriers. Very often, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals aren't given seats at tables, or even welcomed into rooms that would make life more accessible. I see therapy as a folding chair—a portable, adaptable, and transformative support system that we unfold into our lives to create our own spaces to thrive. My ideal client is open, ready, and willing to work on themselves, name their inner demons, and resist the systemic barriers that have tried to dictate their paths.
I have a particular interest in trauma-informed care, Substance-use recovery, ADHD/AuDHD management, building boundaries, learning self-esteem/self-trust, and working with queer and BIPOC individuals and families who have been marginalized based on their identity.
Holistic wellness is about finding a seat in a world increasingly marked by systemic barriers. Very often, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals aren't given seats at tables, or even welcomed into rooms that would make life more accessible. I see therapy as a folding chair—a portable, adaptable, and transformative support system that we unfold into our lives to create our own spaces to thrive. My ideal client is open, ready, and willing to work on themselves, name their inner demons, and resist the systemic barriers that have tried to dictate their paths.
(517) 879-0938 View (517) 879-0938
Photo of KemArts, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washtenaw County, MI
KemArts, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Ypsilanti, MI 48198  (Online Only)
I am a state of Michigan Licensed Professional Counselor and Art Therapist. I have an office at Christian Love Fellowship Ministries International. I am a Christian and I am happy to share my faith but I do not impose my beliefs on others and respect your beliefs. I utilize a cognitive-behavioral, trauma-informed and solution focused therapeutic approach in my work with clients. I have experience working with male and female clients of all ages in various settings. Areas of focus in my career include trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD; psychological and professional growth, women’s issues, personal growth.
I am a state of Michigan Licensed Professional Counselor and Art Therapist. I have an office at Christian Love Fellowship Ministries International. I am a Christian and I am happy to share my faith but I do not impose my beliefs on others and respect your beliefs. I utilize a cognitive-behavioral, trauma-informed and solution focused therapeutic approach in my work with clients. I have experience working with male and female clients of all ages in various settings. Areas of focus in my career include trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD; psychological and professional growth, women’s issues, personal growth.
(734) 849-4760 View (734) 849-4760
Photo of Christa M Hughbanks-Thomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washtenaw County, MI
Christa M Hughbanks-Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Whitmore Lake, MI 48189
I am a compassionate and skilled therapist specializing in trauma, PTSD, and children's issues. With a deep commitment to promoting healing and growth, I offer comprehensive support to individuals of all ages, from infants to seniors, and is equally devoted to empowering families and women's mental health. My expertise extends to diverse areas, including Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Substance Abuse, Children Abuse/Neglect, Children Behavior Problems, Exposure of Children to Domestic Violence and/or Sexual Assault, Parent Education, Maternal/Paternal Health, Young Adult Mental Health, Crisis Intervention and Family Services.
I am a compassionate and skilled therapist specializing in trauma, PTSD, and children's issues. With a deep commitment to promoting healing and growth, I offer comprehensive support to individuals of all ages, from infants to seniors, and is equally devoted to empowering families and women's mental health. My expertise extends to diverse areas, including Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, Substance Abuse, Children Abuse/Neglect, Children Behavior Problems, Exposure of Children to Domestic Violence and/or Sexual Assault, Parent Education, Maternal/Paternal Health, Young Adult Mental Health, Crisis Intervention and Family Services.
(734) 849-4254 View (734) 849-4254
Photo of Azalea Therapy & Consultation Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washtenaw County, MI
Azalea Therapy & Consultation Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
We also work with many individuals who are experiencing depression, anxiety, or difficulties with substance use.
Life has a way of overwhelming us at times. It can be helpful to have someone to share those struggles with - someone who will be with you as you process the struggles & celebrate your growth and healing. At Azalea, we value the opportunity to walk alongside you while you make your own way through life's journey. We believe in holistic care, looking at individual strengths, backgrounds, and beliefs that empower you to become the best version of yourself - connected and authentic in your engagement with the world around you.
We also work with many individuals who are experiencing depression, anxiety, or difficulties with substance use.
Life has a way of overwhelming us at times. It can be helpful to have someone to share those struggles with - someone who will be with you as you process the struggles & celebrate your growth and healing. At Azalea, we value the opportunity to walk alongside you while you make your own way through life's journey. We believe in holistic care, looking at individual strengths, backgrounds, and beliefs that empower you to become the best version of yourself - connected and authentic in your engagement with the world around you.
(313) 986-4374 View (313) 986-4374
Photo of Bradley Allan Lake, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washtenaw County, MI
Bradley Allan Lake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSWC, BA
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48109
I specialize in treating individuals and couples for anxiety, depression, grief and loss, addiction, self esteem issues, living with a chronic illness, relationship issues, domestic violence and post trauma.
"Outsidethebox Detroit Therapy" Learning to go outside of the habitual thinking patterns (the box) to create space for personal transformation. Wellness requires a holistic approach of maintenance of mind, body, and spirt all working in harmony. We become what we think about on a regular basis. If we love the planet we are also loving ourselves.
I specialize in treating individuals and couples for anxiety, depression, grief and loss, addiction, self esteem issues, living with a chronic illness, relationship issues, domestic violence and post trauma.
"Outsidethebox Detroit Therapy" Learning to go outside of the habitual thinking patterns (the box) to create space for personal transformation. Wellness requires a holistic approach of maintenance of mind, body, and spirt all working in harmony. We become what we think about on a regular basis. If we love the planet we are also loving ourselves.
(313) 254-6550 View (313) 254-6550
Photo of Paula Leapheart, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washtenaw County, MI
Paula Leapheart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
In an uncertain and sometimes chaotic world, everybody needs somebody. Through relationship challenges, addiction, depression, anxiety and other mental health obstacles, it is so vitally important that every individual seeks the support and help they need.
In an uncertain and sometimes chaotic world, everybody needs somebody. Through relationship challenges, addiction, depression, anxiety and other mental health obstacles, it is so vitally important that every individual seeks the support and help they need.
(734) 892-1105 View (734) 892-1105
Photo of Bouschor Coaching in Washtenaw County, MI
Bouschor Coaching
LLMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
I’m a Mental Health Professional, Certified Life Coach, and former Athlete. I have spent the beginning of my career gaining experience in the mental health field. I have experience in working with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depression, substance abuse, psychotic disorders, autism spectrum disorder, cognitive deficits, and various other mental health conditions. I also have multiple years of experience lifting weights and exercising as I lost nearly 100 lbs in a body transformation.
I’m a Mental Health Professional, Certified Life Coach, and former Athlete. I have spent the beginning of my career gaining experience in the mental health field. I have experience in working with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depression, substance abuse, psychotic disorders, autism spectrum disorder, cognitive deficits, and various other mental health conditions. I also have multiple years of experience lifting weights and exercising as I lost nearly 100 lbs in a body transformation.
(734) 821-4944 View (734) 821-4944
Photo of Charlotte Elizabeth Dodd, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Washtenaw County, MI
Charlotte Elizabeth Dodd
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
As a clinical psychologist with a background in marriage and family therapy, career counseling, diagnostic testing and addiction counseling, I know that we can work together to increase your satisfaction with your life.
Everyone struggles with their feelings, relationships, expectations and happiness at times in their life. Are you feeling conflicted, confused or angry? By recognizing behavioral patterns and learning how to change these, you can find more happiness in your life and relationships. With over twenty years of experience, I have a understanding and knowledge about family issues and relationships.
As a clinical psychologist with a background in marriage and family therapy, career counseling, diagnostic testing and addiction counseling, I know that we can work together to increase your satisfaction with your life.
Everyone struggles with their feelings, relationships, expectations and happiness at times in their life. Are you feeling conflicted, confused or angry? By recognizing behavioral patterns and learning how to change these, you can find more happiness in your life and relationships. With over twenty years of experience, I have a understanding and knowledge about family issues and relationships.
(734) 636-0661 View (734) 636-0661
Photo of David King, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washtenaw County, MI
David King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
As a clinician with over 25 years of experience, my first goal is to understand you, your circumstances, and where you have come from to help you achieve your goals and improve your well-being. My training includes both doctoral and master’s degrees in social work. I also hold a master’s degree in pastoral counseling and specialize in Christian counseling for those seeking a faith-based perspective. My areas of specialty practice include working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, anger, guilt, addiction, grief and loss, and challenges related to past hurts, life transitions, and relationship and family problems.
As a clinician with over 25 years of experience, my first goal is to understand you, your circumstances, and where you have come from to help you achieve your goals and improve your well-being. My training includes both doctoral and master’s degrees in social work. I also hold a master’s degree in pastoral counseling and specialize in Christian counseling for those seeking a faith-based perspective. My areas of specialty practice include working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, anger, guilt, addiction, grief and loss, and challenges related to past hurts, life transitions, and relationship and family problems.
(734) 245-2846 View (734) 245-2846
Photo of Lynn Frances Cartwright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washtenaw County, MI
Lynn Frances Cartwright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
I have experience with treating clients with a variety of diagnoses including Depression, Anxiety Disorder, Bi-polar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Sexuality Issues, Transgender issues, Substance Abuse, Psychosis, Behavioral and Parenting Issues. I've worked in the Behavioral Health Unit of a local hospital for the past several years and have practiced in clinics in urban and rural areas. I have seen clients from a variety of educational backgrounds including higher education such as teachers and professors. At this time, I am seeing patients by telehealth only.
I have experience with treating clients with a variety of diagnoses including Depression, Anxiety Disorder, Bi-polar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Sexuality Issues, Transgender issues, Substance Abuse, Psychosis, Behavioral and Parenting Issues. I've worked in the Behavioral Health Unit of a local hospital for the past several years and have practiced in clinics in urban and rural areas. I have seen clients from a variety of educational backgrounds including higher education such as teachers and professors. At this time, I am seeing patients by telehealth only.
(734) 436-3340 View (734) 436-3340
Photo of Anchor Consulting Services, Counselor in Washtenaw County, MI
Anchor Consulting Services
Counselor, LPC, CSAT, CAADC, CSOTS, CMAT
Verified Verified
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
It is written, "Hope is an anchor for the soul, firm and secure." A popular image of an anchor symbolizes safety and stability. Many people - maybe even you - face terrible storms in their lives: addiction, abuse, fear, loss of relationships, joblessness, loneliness and more. In response to life's storms, people turn to compulsive sexual behavior, anger, substance abuse and food to soothe themselves. These "medications" not only do not work, but create chaos in our lives. Other ways of dealing with turmoil include lying, isolation and feelings of shame, guilt and worthlessness. I offer a refuge to chart a new course.
It is written, "Hope is an anchor for the soul, firm and secure." A popular image of an anchor symbolizes safety and stability. Many people - maybe even you - face terrible storms in their lives: addiction, abuse, fear, loss of relationships, joblessness, loneliness and more. In response to life's storms, people turn to compulsive sexual behavior, anger, substance abuse and food to soothe themselves. These "medications" not only do not work, but create chaos in our lives. Other ways of dealing with turmoil include lying, isolation and feelings of shame, guilt and worthlessness. I offer a refuge to chart a new course.
(734) 219-6626 View (734) 219-6626
Photo of Olivia M Mielke, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washtenaw County, MI
Olivia M Mielke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CAADC, ICAADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Ypsilanti, MI 48197  (Online Only)
I am focused on helping you live your best life, mentally, physically, spiritually, and culturally, to have a deeper connection with those around you, and finally begin the process of self-acceptance & healing. Why continue down the same path, only to yield the same results? Allow yourself the opportunity to heal, love, and grow.
I am focused on helping you live your best life, mentally, physically, spiritually, and culturally, to have a deeper connection with those around you, and finally begin the process of self-acceptance & healing. Why continue down the same path, only to yield the same results? Allow yourself the opportunity to heal, love, and grow.
(734) 206-7747 View (734) 206-7747
Photo of Dr. Annette Solomon, Psychologist in Washtenaw County, MI
Dr. Annette Solomon
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103  (Online Only)
Congratulations... you’ve taken the first step toward improving your health and wellness. It takes tremendous strength & courage to ask for assistance and I’m honored to be a part of the process. Dr. Annette Solomon is a Psychologist, licensed in Michigan and owner of Healing Space Therapeutic Services, LLC, a strength-based telehealth practice. Dr. Solomon provides culturally competent therapy with clients who have experienced challenges with a variety of mental health disorders and/ or concerns and would like to grow, get relief, or improve their general well-being.
Congratulations... you’ve taken the first step toward improving your health and wellness. It takes tremendous strength & courage to ask for assistance and I’m honored to be a part of the process. Dr. Annette Solomon is a Psychologist, licensed in Michigan and owner of Healing Space Therapeutic Services, LLC, a strength-based telehealth practice. Dr. Solomon provides culturally competent therapy with clients who have experienced challenges with a variety of mental health disorders and/ or concerns and would like to grow, get relief, or improve their general well-being.
(248) 621-8417 View (248) 621-8417

See more therapy options for Washtenaw County

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.