Addiction Therapists in Kamloops, BC

Photo of Laura Cocksedge, BCYC, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Laura Cocksedge
Counsellor, BCYC, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kamloops, BC V2C  (Online Only)
She also works with adults in inpatient care supporting them with mental health, trauma, and addiction.
Laura’s area of concentration includes working in the areas of child development and adult addiction. She is available to work for people of all ages. Laura believes in honouring and upholding the dignity of people with the understanding that many life events are dignity-stripping, and that both the freedom to speak and the responses from others are key. Adversity affects us all; healing begins with understanding, acceptance, and compassion. Laura’s practice is informed by Response-Based Practice, solution-focused theory, meaning-centred theory, feminist theory, and systemic family theory.
She also works with adults in inpatient care supporting them with mental health, trauma, and addiction.
Laura’s area of concentration includes working in the areas of child development and adult addiction. She is available to work for people of all ages. Laura believes in honouring and upholding the dignity of people with the understanding that many life events are dignity-stripping, and that both the freedom to speak and the responses from others are key. Adversity affects us all; healing begins with understanding, acceptance, and compassion. Laura’s practice is informed by Response-Based Practice, solution-focused theory, meaning-centred theory, feminist theory, and systemic family theory.
(873) 371-5746 View (873) 371-5746
Photo of Pete Grinberg, BA, Bed, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Pete Grinberg
Counsellor, BA, Bed, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kamloops, BC V2C
I have worked many years with people from all walks of life and have experienced first hand relationship trauma, challenging family dynamics and the effects of addiction.
Life can brings unexpected changes: Relationships come to an end; There may be Infidelity, failure, and disappointments. For those who value spirituality and faith there is a loss of hope. Alcohol and/or drug issues take control. If any of this resonates with you it may be a good time to consider counselling. I have a passion for people who struggle with chronic anxiety, aging gracefully, faith issues, addictions, depression, and relationship strife. I also have good understanding of the complicated world of blended families, those who struggle with work/family balance, and men who struggle with gaming/porn addictions.
I have worked many years with people from all walks of life and have experienced first hand relationship trauma, challenging family dynamics and the effects of addiction.
Life can brings unexpected changes: Relationships come to an end; There may be Infidelity, failure, and disappointments. For those who value spirituality and faith there is a loss of hope. Alcohol and/or drug issues take control. If any of this resonates with you it may be a good time to consider counselling. I have a passion for people who struggle with chronic anxiety, aging gracefully, faith issues, addictions, depression, and relationship strife. I also have good understanding of the complicated world of blended families, those who struggle with work/family balance, and men who struggle with gaming/porn addictions.
(778) 745-5083 View (778) 745-5083
Photo of Devon Olson - A Look Within Counselling, RTC, Counsellor
A Look Within Counselling
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
Kamloops, BC V2B
I specialize in PTSD, grief/loss and addiction; together we can take a look at what is holding you back and help you move forward.
You matter! I believe working on yourself is the greatest gift! It can feel lonely and often overwhelming to navigate hard things. Maybe you have been to counselling before but would like to try a more holistic approach? Often times, we have experiences in our childhood that show up in adulthood in maladaptive ways; this can affect how we view the world and cloud our sense of purpose. Maybe you are feeling uncomfortable and cannot pin point why; together we can take a look at your life and identify what is making you uncomfortable and how to find the right tools to start healing. This isn't easy but it is worth it, healing awaits.
I specialize in PTSD, grief/loss and addiction; together we can take a look at what is holding you back and help you move forward.
You matter! I believe working on yourself is the greatest gift! It can feel lonely and often overwhelming to navigate hard things. Maybe you have been to counselling before but would like to try a more holistic approach? Often times, we have experiences in our childhood that show up in adulthood in maladaptive ways; this can affect how we view the world and cloud our sense of purpose. Maybe you are feeling uncomfortable and cannot pin point why; together we can take a look at your life and identify what is making you uncomfortable and how to find the right tools to start healing. This isn't easy but it is worth it, healing awaits.
(226) 641-6978 View (226) 641-6978
Photo of Darren Curtis Gulka, RPN, BHSc, NNPBC, CNMBC, Psychiatric Nurse
Darren Curtis Gulka
Psychiatric Nurse, RPN, BHSc, NNPBC, CNMBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kamloops, BC V2C
Almost 3 decades has been spent gaining a diverse background in Mental Health & Substance Use. A career that includes Crisis Intervention, Psychiatric Emergencies, Acute Psychiatry, Case Management, and Comprehensive Assessments including medication reviews. Darren has been part of many multi-disciplinary teams, and has actively served on numerous Community Committees and Commissions as well as been a court appointed Mediator for the City of Calgary. His experience includes clinical leadership, educating and mentoring, group work, and individual supportive psychotherapy.
Almost 3 decades has been spent gaining a diverse background in Mental Health & Substance Use. A career that includes Crisis Intervention, Psychiatric Emergencies, Acute Psychiatry, Case Management, and Comprehensive Assessments including medication reviews. Darren has been part of many multi-disciplinary teams, and has actively served on numerous Community Committees and Commissions as well as been a court appointed Mediator for the City of Calgary. His experience includes clinical leadership, educating and mentoring, group work, and individual supportive psychotherapy.
(844) 619-6855 View (844) 619-6855
Photo of Claire Jones, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Claire Jones
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kamloops, BC V2C
With over two decades of experience in nursing and pastoral care, my specializations lie in guiding people through seasons of loss, confusion, and transition, with particular care for individuals across the lifespan, including children (6-12), adolescents, young adults, couples, individuals, and seniors). Whether you are struggling with low mood, substance use, anxiety, work related, parenting stress, or interpersonal conflict, my compassionate approach can help you find the inner strength and resources to reduce distress and make helpful changes in your life.
With over two decades of experience in nursing and pastoral care, my specializations lie in guiding people through seasons of loss, confusion, and transition, with particular care for individuals across the lifespan, including children (6-12), adolescents, young adults, couples, individuals, and seniors). Whether you are struggling with low mood, substance use, anxiety, work related, parenting stress, or interpersonal conflict, my compassionate approach can help you find the inner strength and resources to reduce distress and make helpful changes in your life.
(579) 700-6757 View (579) 700-6757
Photo of Sarah Coyle, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Sarah Coyle
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Kamloops, BC V2E  (Online Only)
• Long history of working with folks struggling with substance use and their families.
Many people have had a life full of moments: good, bad, ugly, and somewhere in the mediocre middle. You are here because some of those experiences have left you feeling overwhelmed. Maybe you can’t make sense of the emotions that you’re wrestling with. Perhaps you're constantly treading water and afraid that you're going to drown. If you are looking for a life raft, maybe counseling is it. I have worked with folks from all walks of life - including families who may have had interactions with the criminal justice system. If you are nervous to talk about some of the big things in your life, reach out.
• Long history of working with folks struggling with substance use and their families.
Many people have had a life full of moments: good, bad, ugly, and somewhere in the mediocre middle. You are here because some of those experiences have left you feeling overwhelmed. Maybe you can’t make sense of the emotions that you’re wrestling with. Perhaps you're constantly treading water and afraid that you're going to drown. If you are looking for a life raft, maybe counseling is it. I have worked with folks from all walks of life - including families who may have had interactions with the criminal justice system. If you are nervous to talk about some of the big things in your life, reach out.
View
Photo of Sandip Sadhra - Sandip Sadhra, BA, BEd, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Sandip Sadhra
Counsellor, BA, BEd, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
Kamloops, BC V2C
This includes extensive training in the areas of parent/youth conflicts, teen anxiety, substance abuse, and emotional regulation.
I am dedicated to helping couples and individuals improve their relationships and overall well-being. I have extensive experience in working with couples to navigate challenging times, overcome obstacles, and create a stronger, more fulfilling bond. My services include individual counselling for those seeking to improve their relationship skills and communication, as well as couples counselling for those who want to work on their relationship together. I also offer premarital counselling for those who are engaged or considering marriage, to help them build a strong foundation for their future together.
This includes extensive training in the areas of parent/youth conflicts, teen anxiety, substance abuse, and emotional regulation.
I am dedicated to helping couples and individuals improve their relationships and overall well-being. I have extensive experience in working with couples to navigate challenging times, overcome obstacles, and create a stronger, more fulfilling bond. My services include individual counselling for those seeking to improve their relationship skills and communication, as well as couples counselling for those who want to work on their relationship together. I also offer premarital counselling for those who are engaged or considering marriage, to help them build a strong foundation for their future together.
(778) 257-0480 View (778) 257-0480
Photo of Katherine Kierans, BIS, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Katherine Kierans
Counsellor, BIS, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kamloops, BC V2C
I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, parenthood, and those navigating past and present trauma and/or violence. Whether it's improving relationships, developing effective parenting strategies, managing ADHD-related challenges, working with substance-use or reducing anxiety symptoms, I offer a space to collaboratively work toward relief, understanding and self-discovery.
I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, parenthood, and those navigating past and present trauma and/or violence. Whether it's improving relationships, developing effective parenting strategies, managing ADHD-related challenges, working with substance-use or reducing anxiety symptoms, I offer a space to collaboratively work toward relief, understanding and self-discovery.
(902) 903-3555 View (902) 903-3555
Photo of Jason Peterson - Collaborative Counselling , MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Collaborative Counselling
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
Kamloops, BC V2C
I have focused my professional learning on treating anxiety, OCD, internet addiction, trauma, relationship issues, workplace difficulties and other significant life challenges.
I view counselling as an opportunity to work with a specialist in psychology who can provide you with the knowledge, support and tools to help you improve your life significantly. I have focused on pursuing extensive training in treating a variety of life stressors. I have a comprehensive psychological toolbox that I would like to share to help you live the best life possible. I am a registered EMDR Therapist (both Internationally and in Canada), a Gotman therapist, and I have worked in the mental health field for over 30 years, a background in the Canadian Military, as a Municipal Fire Fighter, and First Responder.
I have focused my professional learning on treating anxiety, OCD, internet addiction, trauma, relationship issues, workplace difficulties and other significant life challenges.
I view counselling as an opportunity to work with a specialist in psychology who can provide you with the knowledge, support and tools to help you improve your life significantly. I have focused on pursuing extensive training in treating a variety of life stressors. I have a comprehensive psychological toolbox that I would like to share to help you live the best life possible. I am a registered EMDR Therapist (both Internationally and in Canada), a Gotman therapist, and I have worked in the mental health field for over 30 years, a background in the Canadian Military, as a Municipal Fire Fighter, and First Responder.
(819) 201-9043 View (819) 201-9043
Photo of Andrea Campbell, MA, RCC, RSW, MPCC-S, Counsellor
Andrea Campbell
Counsellor, MA, RCC, RSW, MPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kamloops, BC V2C
Waitlist for new clients
Andrea provides counselling for concerns related to depression & anxiety, substance use, trauma, grief & loss, suicide & self-harm, infertility, adoption, and more.
Andrea provides counselling for concerns related to depression & anxiety, substance use, trauma, grief & loss, suicide & self-harm, infertility, adoption, and more.
(709) 501-5857 View (709) 501-5857
Photo of Lorna Williams, BPE, BEd, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Lorna Williams
Counsellor, BPE, BEd, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Kamloops, BC V2E
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a licensed private practice based in Kamloops, B.C., offering counselling services for youth, adults, couples and families. Areas of practice include, marital/relationship difficulties (communication and trust), relationship therapy for families, parenting concerns, life transitions, anxiety/panic disorder, trauma, depression, substance use, disturbing thoughts, and adolescence concerns of self-harm, peer relations, sexuality, self-esteem and parent/teen conflict.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a licensed private practice based in Kamloops, B.C., offering counselling services for youth, adults, couples and families. Areas of practice include, marital/relationship difficulties (communication and trust), relationship therapy for families, parenting concerns, life transitions, anxiety/panic disorder, trauma, depression, substance use, disturbing thoughts, and adolescence concerns of self-harm, peer relations, sexuality, self-esteem and parent/teen conflict.
(877) 470-7951 View (877) 470-7951
Photo of Shawna Calhoun, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Shawna Calhoun
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Kamloops, BC V2C
I am an allied, white settler of Scottish and English decent. I am humbled, and honoured, to call Tk’emlups te Secwepemc territory my home. My specialty and passion is in supporting children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. I work with a range of concerns including self-worth, shame, anxiety, depression, trauma, violence, substance use, chronic pain, and grief. I also have experience working with youth and young adults with neurodiversities.
I am an allied, white settler of Scottish and English decent. I am humbled, and honoured, to call Tk’emlups te Secwepemc territory my home. My specialty and passion is in supporting children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. I work with a range of concerns including self-worth, shame, anxiety, depression, trauma, violence, substance use, chronic pain, and grief. I also have experience working with youth and young adults with neurodiversities.
(778) 745-0326 View (778) 745-0326
Photo of Barry Reiter, BA, MC, CCC, Counsellor
Barry Reiter
Counsellor, BA, MC, CCC
Verified Verified
Kamloops, BC V2C
Distress comes in many forms, including: anxiety, depression, current or residual trauma or PTSD, phobias and fear difficulties, personality difficulties, substance use problems, relationship or family difficulties, sleep problems, bereavement, or trouble adjusting to a significant change in life circumstances. If you are experiencing one or more of these difficulties, or if you want to increase your level of resilience to life's challenges, I can help. If you experience headaches, I am trained in IEMDR, an empirically-supported treatment for migraines and other headaches.
Distress comes in many forms, including: anxiety, depression, current or residual trauma or PTSD, phobias and fear difficulties, personality difficulties, substance use problems, relationship or family difficulties, sleep problems, bereavement, or trouble adjusting to a significant change in life circumstances. If you are experiencing one or more of these difficulties, or if you want to increase your level of resilience to life's challenges, I can help. If you experience headaches, I am trained in IEMDR, an empirically-supported treatment for migraines and other headaches.
(778) 860-7961 View (778) 860-7961
Photo of Amanda Sparkes (Psychotherapy For You British Columbia), RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Amanda Sparkes (Psychotherapy For You British Columbia)
Counsellor, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kamloops, BC V2C  (Online Only)
including overall mental health and wellness, substance use disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.
My name is Amanda Sparkes, and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors. I hold a Master’s Degree in Social Work, whereby my focus was in the area of mental health and addiction treatment, specifically serving and working within northern rural and remote communities and service provisions.My approach to practice specializes in the understanding of ‘culturally respectful social work practice’, anti-oppressive paradigm, and holistic healing through mindful practice. I am experienced in offering counselling services to children, youth, adults, and families focusing on issues
including overall mental health and wellness, substance use disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.
My name is Amanda Sparkes, and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors. I hold a Master’s Degree in Social Work, whereby my focus was in the area of mental health and addiction treatment, specifically serving and working within northern rural and remote communities and service provisions.My approach to practice specializes in the understanding of ‘culturally respectful social work practice’, anti-oppressive paradigm, and holistic healing through mindful practice. I am experienced in offering counselling services to children, youth, adults, and families focusing on issues
(778) 601-7794 View (778) 601-7794
Photo of Debbie Leung, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Debbie Leung
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Kamloops, BC V2H
I am a Registered Psychologist and director of Wise Mind Centre, a Vancouver-based service that provides primarily cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and comprehensive dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to adolescents and adult clients and their loved ones. I work with clients who struggle with a variety of psychological problems, including anxiety, OCD, stress, depression, substance use, life transitions, parenting difficulties, self-harm behavior, suicidal ideations, PTSD, interpersonal difficulties, emotion regulation difficulties, and borderline personality disorder. My service could be offered in both English and Chinese.
I am a Registered Psychologist and director of Wise Mind Centre, a Vancouver-based service that provides primarily cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and comprehensive dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to adolescents and adult clients and their loved ones. I work with clients who struggle with a variety of psychological problems, including anxiety, OCD, stress, depression, substance use, life transitions, parenting difficulties, self-harm behavior, suicidal ideations, PTSD, interpersonal difficulties, emotion regulation difficulties, and borderline personality disorder. My service could be offered in both English and Chinese.
(877) 594-7727 View (877) 594-7727
Photo of Debbie Leung - Wise Mind Centre, PhD, R, Psych, Psychologist
Wise Mind Centre
Psychologist, PhD, R, Psych
Verified Verified
Kamloops, BC V1S
Wise Mind Centre is a Vancouver-based psychology clinic that provides in-person counselling services in Vancouver, Burnaby, and surrounding areas, and online services to all residents in British Columbia. Our psychologists help individuals struggling with a variety of psychological problems, including anxiety, OCD, depression, substance use, emotional eating, parenting difficulties, self-harm, trauma, suicidal ideations, PTSD, interpersonal difficulties, marital problems, and BPD. We offer primarily CBT, DBT, and mindfulness-based treatments. You may book online with us directly here: https://wisemindcentre.janeapp.com/.
Wise Mind Centre is a Vancouver-based psychology clinic that provides in-person counselling services in Vancouver, Burnaby, and surrounding areas, and online services to all residents in British Columbia. Our psychologists help individuals struggling with a variety of psychological problems, including anxiety, OCD, depression, substance use, emotional eating, parenting difficulties, self-harm, trauma, suicidal ideations, PTSD, interpersonal difficulties, marital problems, and BPD. We offer primarily CBT, DBT, and mindfulness-based treatments. You may book online with us directly here: https://wisemindcentre.janeapp.com/.
(778) 608-5867 View (778) 608-5867
Photo of Glen Richard Follweiter - 4-Ward Ascent Counselling and Consulting, BAM, MA, CCC, Counsellor
4-Ward Ascent Counselling and Consulting
Counsellor, BAM, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Kamloops, BC V2B  (Online Only)
Through personal experience with addiction and emotional disfunction, I am able to encourage collaborative exploration, insight, & action.
Life has difficult seasons and at times there appears to be no rays of sunshine penatrating the dark clouds surrounding us. It is in these times, especially, we often ask the difficult questions like, "why God?" Will these hard-aches ever stop? Can positive change occur? It has been my personal experience through walking in seasons of darkness that light does continually shine but the heartache and pain often blocks our senses and even our faith gets tested beyond what we believe is sustainable. My goal as a counsellor is to encourage my clients to continue to seek practical and spiritual insight and watch how our eternal God moves.
Through personal experience with addiction and emotional disfunction, I am able to encourage collaborative exploration, insight, & action.
Life has difficult seasons and at times there appears to be no rays of sunshine penatrating the dark clouds surrounding us. It is in these times, especially, we often ask the difficult questions like, "why God?" Will these hard-aches ever stop? Can positive change occur? It has been my personal experience through walking in seasons of darkness that light does continually shine but the heartache and pain often blocks our senses and even our faith gets tested beyond what we believe is sustainable. My goal as a counsellor is to encourage my clients to continue to seek practical and spiritual insight and watch how our eternal God moves.
(431) 244-7923 View (431) 244-7923
Photo of Lisa Neill, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Lisa Neill
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kamloops, BC V2C  (Online Only)
Congratulations on taking the first step towards a more fulfilling life. I'm so glad you're here. My name is Lisa (she/her), and I support adolescent (13+) and adult clients who are looking to overcome and heal from the challenges of life, and discover the best possible version of themselves. I've been a mental health and developmental services professional for nearly 20 years, and have supported those who experience anxiety, depression, addiction, stress, neurodivergence (ADHD and autism), trauma and relational trauma, working in emergency services and their spouses, low self-esteem, and more.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards a more fulfilling life. I'm so glad you're here. My name is Lisa (she/her), and I support adolescent (13+) and adult clients who are looking to overcome and heal from the challenges of life, and discover the best possible version of themselves. I've been a mental health and developmental services professional for nearly 20 years, and have supported those who experience anxiety, depression, addiction, stress, neurodivergence (ADHD and autism), trauma and relational trauma, working in emergency services and their spouses, low self-esteem, and more.
(866) 574-1122 x5 View (866) 574-1122 x5
Photo of Parris Winsor, RPC, Counsellor
Parris Winsor
Counsellor, RPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kamloops, BC V1S
I am skilled in trauma, grief, relationship and addiction counselling, and teach many other necessary life skills, which I facilitates through workshops and groups. I help to create a routine that is balanced and transferable into anyone's life. I focus on building self worth and esteem, creating skills for healthy, happy relationships. Empower individuals to live a life free of addictions and behaviours that cause consequences and negative feelings. I encourage people to identify the inner dialogue that persists with negativity, put downs and beliefs that aren't serving them well and replace those with love and kindness.
I am skilled in trauma, grief, relationship and addiction counselling, and teach many other necessary life skills, which I facilitates through workshops and groups. I help to create a routine that is balanced and transferable into anyone's life. I focus on building self worth and esteem, creating skills for healthy, happy relationships. Empower individuals to live a life free of addictions and behaviours that cause consequences and negative feelings. I encourage people to identify the inner dialogue that persists with negativity, put downs and beliefs that aren't serving them well and replace those with love and kindness.
(855) 872-5996 View (855) 872-5996
Photo of Christopher Hum, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Christopher Hum
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Kamloops, BC V2B  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am here to provide a safe, non-judgemental, and respectful space to investigate how you can achieve the mental health and wellbeing you need. For you, it may have gotten to the point where unsolicited advice from others became tiring, or maybe some people in your life continuously tell you to "just stop" or "go for a walk and your depression will disappear because... endorphines". Maybe you are finally ready to have someone take the time to truly understand you and your situation so you can understand yourself. Whatever your reasons, I am guessing that you are reading my profile because you are ready for a change.
I am here to provide a safe, non-judgemental, and respectful space to investigate how you can achieve the mental health and wellbeing you need. For you, it may have gotten to the point where unsolicited advice from others became tiring, or maybe some people in your life continuously tell you to "just stop" or "go for a walk and your depression will disappear because... endorphines". Maybe you are finally ready to have someone take the time to truly understand you and your situation so you can understand yourself. Whatever your reasons, I am guessing that you are reading my profile because you are ready for a change.
(587) 742-0438 View (587) 742-0438
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See more therapy options for Kamloops

Addiction Counsellors

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.