Photo of Aizhan Zhumasheva, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Aizhan Zhumasheva
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M3C
I have extensive clinical experience in providing assessments, counseling, and psychotherapy for individuals and their families with a wide range of mental health conditions and life issues, including anxiety, and mood disorders, addiction, trauma, low self-esteem, interpersonal and family relationship difficulties, work-related stress, career transition.
I am passionate about guiding my clients to increase their self-awareness, discover themselves, achieve their goals, and make their desired change. Exploring the clients' thinking and discovering new ways of looking at things I invite my clients to better understand how the clients may bring about positive changes that will enhance their quality of life. Before becoming a social worker in Canada, I started my career in mental health as a psychiatrist (obtain a medical degree outside of Canada). For more than 20 years, I have worked with individuals who suffer from mental health disorders and substance misuse.
I have extensive clinical experience in providing assessments, counseling, and psychotherapy for individuals and their families with a wide range of mental health conditions and life issues, including anxiety, and mood disorders, addiction, trauma, low self-esteem, interpersonal and family relationship difficulties, work-related stress, career transition.
I am passionate about guiding my clients to increase their self-awareness, discover themselves, achieve their goals, and make their desired change. Exploring the clients' thinking and discovering new ways of looking at things I invite my clients to better understand how the clients may bring about positive changes that will enhance their quality of life. Before becoming a social worker in Canada, I started my career in mental health as a psychiatrist (obtain a medical degree outside of Canada). For more than 20 years, I have worked with individuals who suffer from mental health disorders and substance misuse.
(289) 768-6459 View (289) 768-6459
Photo of Angini Joan Mohammed, MSW , RSW, Registered Social Worker
Angini Joan Mohammed
Registered Social Worker, MSW , RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M3C
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, trauma, substance use, anger, and other issues, Angini is here to help.
Meet Angini, a licensed therapist with 15+ years of experience in the field of mental health. With a rich background in counseling and a deep commitment to helping people, Angini is a trusted resource for those seeking support and guidance. Angini is of Indo-Caribbean background, which has given her a unique perspective on the challenges that come with navigating different cultural norms and experiences. This background has also influenced Angini's approach to therapy, which prioritizes empathy, understanding, and cultural sensitivity.
Whether you're struggling with anxiety, trauma, substance use, anger, and other issues, Angini is here to help.
Meet Angini, a licensed therapist with 15+ years of experience in the field of mental health. With a rich background in counseling and a deep commitment to helping people, Angini is a trusted resource for those seeking support and guidance. Angini is of Indo-Caribbean background, which has given her a unique perspective on the challenges that come with navigating different cultural norms and experiences. This background has also influenced Angini's approach to therapy, which prioritizes empathy, understanding, and cultural sensitivity.
(289) 804-8449 View (289) 804-8449
Photo of Sheena Eady - Sheena Eady Psychotherapy & Counselling Services, HBA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Sheena Eady Psychotherapy & Counselling Services
Registered Psychotherapist, HBA, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M3C
Relieving mental health and addiction can be life changing.
Struggling? Looking for something effective? You’re trying. Of course, you want to give it your best shot on your own. You may have a strong foundation you're working from and perhaps something is missing. Stuck feelings of frustration, anger, fear, guilt, shame, and despair can compromise your ability to live well and be the version of yourself you want to be. Everyone wants you to be happy. You do too. My wish for you is not this. It is for you to acquire the ability to work through stuck emotions/thoughts/behaviours, to achieve long lasting change, joy, freedom, and peace. You can BE YOUR FREE and find it with support. CALL.
Relieving mental health and addiction can be life changing.
Struggling? Looking for something effective? You’re trying. Of course, you want to give it your best shot on your own. You may have a strong foundation you're working from and perhaps something is missing. Stuck feelings of frustration, anger, fear, guilt, shame, and despair can compromise your ability to live well and be the version of yourself you want to be. Everyone wants you to be happy. You do too. My wish for you is not this. It is for you to acquire the ability to work through stuck emotions/thoughts/behaviours, to achieve long lasting change, joy, freedom, and peace. You can BE YOUR FREE and find it with support. CALL.
(249) 490-8480 View (249) 490-8480
Photo of Mike Stroh, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Mike Stroh
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M3C
As a therapist, my fundamental goal is to help and encourage you to look at the difficult parts of your life that are holding you back, while simultaneously helping you to cultivate the skills to live your life in a manner that is mentally healthy and purpose driven. I work with people struggling with ADHD, addiction (specializing in cannabis), anxiety, and those having difficulty in their marriage or settling into a committed relationship. I also like to help people who feel lost in their life or who feel unfulfilled by their current profession and who hope to bring more meaning into their lives.
As a therapist, my fundamental goal is to help and encourage you to look at the difficult parts of your life that are holding you back, while simultaneously helping you to cultivate the skills to live your life in a manner that is mentally healthy and purpose driven. I work with people struggling with ADHD, addiction (specializing in cannabis), anxiety, and those having difficulty in their marriage or settling into a committed relationship. I also like to help people who feel lost in their life or who feel unfulfilled by their current profession and who hope to bring more meaning into their lives.
(647) 492-4029 View (647) 492-4029
Photo of Awaiz Artani, MSc, Registered Psychotherapist
Awaiz Artani
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North York, ON M3C  (Online Only)
I specialize in the areas of anxiety, depression, stress, substance abuse, and cultural issues.
With a passion for contributing to society, I am dedicated to supporting clients on their journey toward mental well-being. Although beginning counseling can seem daunting, I understand that after the first step, the path starts smoothing. With compassion and care, I aim to help people from all walks of life take that critical first stride. I aim for every client to feel heard, validated, and empowered. With an empathetic approach honed through my training and experience, I strive to create a space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to achieve their goals.
I specialize in the areas of anxiety, depression, stress, substance abuse, and cultural issues.
With a passion for contributing to society, I am dedicated to supporting clients on their journey toward mental well-being. Although beginning counseling can seem daunting, I understand that after the first step, the path starts smoothing. With compassion and care, I aim to help people from all walks of life take that critical first stride. I aim for every client to feel heard, validated, and empowered. With an empathetic approach honed through my training and experience, I strive to create a space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to achieve their goals.
(289) 312-1905 View (289) 312-1905
Photo of Atheesan Mahendrarajah, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Atheesan Mahendrarajah
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M3C
Whether you are grappling with anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship issues, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of yourself and your emotions, I'm here to support and empower you on your journey toward mental and emotional well-being.
Welcome! I’m glad you came by! I utilize a blend of evidence-based therapeutic techniques grounded in the latest research. I tailor my approach to each client's specific needs. My goal is to build a strong therapeutic alliance that fosters trust, growth, and self-awareness by offering ears that can listen in a completely confidential, nonjudgmental, and empathetic space.
Whether you are grappling with anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship issues, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of yourself and your emotions, I'm here to support and empower you on your journey toward mental and emotional well-being.
Welcome! I’m glad you came by! I utilize a blend of evidence-based therapeutic techniques grounded in the latest research. I tailor my approach to each client's specific needs. My goal is to build a strong therapeutic alliance that fosters trust, growth, and self-awareness by offering ears that can listen in a completely confidential, nonjudgmental, and empathetic space.
(289) 271-0875 View (289) 271-0875
Photo of Alison M Hunt, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist
Alison M Hunt
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M3C
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with 30 years experience in the Mental Health and Addiction field.
Do you have difficulty managing strong, unwanted emotions? Do you find it hard to maintain relationships and friendships? Do do find yourself feeling stuck and unable to make the changes you want for your future? Sometimes it can be overwhelming trying to figure it out on your own. I offer a collaborative, empathic space for you to work towards your goals and to find your path.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with 30 years experience in the Mental Health and Addiction field.
Do you have difficulty managing strong, unwanted emotions? Do you find it hard to maintain relationships and friendships? Do do find yourself feeling stuck and unable to make the changes you want for your future? Sometimes it can be overwhelming trying to figure it out on your own. I offer a collaborative, empathic space for you to work towards your goals and to find your path.
(437) 800-0675 View (437) 800-0675
Photo of Hamid Azizi, BSc, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Hamid Azizi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M3C
Welcome to my profile! I'm Hamid Azizi, a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) at LiveWise Associates. If you're seeking effective and evidence-based behaviour modification, you've come to the right place. With a solid educational foundation, including a BSc. in Psychology and Biochemistry from Trent University and a Master's in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville, I specialize in couple’s therapy, relationship dynamics, interpersonal conflicts, anxiety, depression, Adhd, and addiction. I've also honed my skills through a strategic intervention certificate, to provide a deeper level of evidence-based therapeutic solutions.
Welcome to my profile! I'm Hamid Azizi, a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) at LiveWise Associates. If you're seeking effective and evidence-based behaviour modification, you've come to the right place. With a solid educational foundation, including a BSc. in Psychology and Biochemistry from Trent University and a Master's in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville, I specialize in couple’s therapy, relationship dynamics, interpersonal conflicts, anxiety, depression, Adhd, and addiction. I've also honed my skills through a strategic intervention certificate, to provide a deeper level of evidence-based therapeutic solutions.
(289) 401-8170 View (289) 401-8170
Photo of Misha Dhillon - Lotus Garden Counselling, HBASc, RSSW, OAMHP
Lotus Garden Counselling
Registered Social Service Worker, HBASc, RSSW, OAMHP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M3C  (Online Only)
It feels hard because it is hard. Life is hard. Relationships are hard. Healing from trauma is… hard. But, hard does not mean impossible, and I think there’s a part of you that knows that. Maybe there’s a part of you that wants support, that wants to feel better, have better relationships, and just live an overall better life. Maybe there’s also a part of you that’s fed up, angry, defeated, burnt out, or just stuck. This might be manifesting in your life in a number of ways. Anger, rumination, burnout, depression, anxiety, addiction, thoughts of self harm or suicide, relationship problems, maybe even conflict with the law.
It feels hard because it is hard. Life is hard. Relationships are hard. Healing from trauma is… hard. But, hard does not mean impossible, and I think there’s a part of you that knows that. Maybe there’s a part of you that wants support, that wants to feel better, have better relationships, and just live an overall better life. Maybe there’s also a part of you that’s fed up, angry, defeated, burnt out, or just stuck. This might be manifesting in your life in a number of ways. Anger, rumination, burnout, depression, anxiety, addiction, thoughts of self harm or suicide, relationship problems, maybe even conflict with the law.
(289) 273-9837 View (289) 273-9837
Photo of Stacy Yong, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Stacy Yong
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M3C
, I help clients through anxiety, depression, emotions, relationship difficulties, behavioural issues, self-esteem, grief/loss, stress, trauma, and addictions.
At SoundMind Therapy Services, we help heal root issues to truly transform you to THrive in life! Our focus is your mental and emotional wellness by identifying current patterns, and past experiences. We work from a place of hope and believe that everyone has potential to improve their life, regardless of challenges encountered.  Stacy has extensive individual, couple, family/group therapy experience and we use your existing strengths to help develop healthy coping and healthy relationships. Together we can identify your goals to help you move forward in life, step by step, for deep healing and growth.
, I help clients through anxiety, depression, emotions, relationship difficulties, behavioural issues, self-esteem, grief/loss, stress, trauma, and addictions.
At SoundMind Therapy Services, we help heal root issues to truly transform you to THrive in life! Our focus is your mental and emotional wellness by identifying current patterns, and past experiences. We work from a place of hope and believe that everyone has potential to improve their life, regardless of challenges encountered.  Stacy has extensive individual, couple, family/group therapy experience and we use your existing strengths to help develop healthy coping and healthy relationships. Together we can identify your goals to help you move forward in life, step by step, for deep healing and growth.
(647) 556-6286 View (647) 556-6286
Nomina Wellness
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
North York, ON M3C
Are you feeling trapped in a cycle of complex mental health challenges or addictions with little progress despite numerous treatment attempts? At Nōmina Wellness, we understand your pain and frustration. Are you ready to courageously battle treatment-resistant mental health issues or addictions and desperately seek lasting solutions? We recognize your unique struggles and are dedicated to providing the compassionate support and evidence-based interventions you need to reclaim your life.
Are you feeling trapped in a cycle of complex mental health challenges or addictions with little progress despite numerous treatment attempts? At Nōmina Wellness, we understand your pain and frustration. Are you ready to courageously battle treatment-resistant mental health issues or addictions and desperately seek lasting solutions? We recognize your unique struggles and are dedicated to providing the compassionate support and evidence-based interventions you need to reclaim your life.
(844) 908-0305 View (844) 908-0305
Photo of Ashley Pengelley, SSW, BA, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Ashley Pengelley
Registered Psychotherapist, SSW, BA, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M3C
Are you looking to become your best self? Are you feeling down ,stressed, looking for a different perspective? My focus is to help individuals, couples and families find hope, heal, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by drawing on multiple theoretical techniques that fit best for the individual. I provide a neutral safe space to improve your emotional and/or social functioning, quality of life and work collaboratively to support you in achieving your counselling goals that fits best for YOU.
Are you looking to become your best self? Are you feeling down ,stressed, looking for a different perspective? My focus is to help individuals, couples and families find hope, heal, and become aware of their inner strengths. I achieve this by drawing on multiple theoretical techniques that fit best for the individual. I provide a neutral safe space to improve your emotional and/or social functioning, quality of life and work collaboratively to support you in achieving your counselling goals that fits best for YOU.
(416) 236-6296 View (416) 236-6296
Photo of Cathy Traynor, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Cathy Traynor
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M3C  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello everyone. My name is Cathy, and I have been working in the mental health sector for over 25 years. I am client-centered and believe that the therapeutic relationship needs to be based on trust, respect, and connection. My therapeutic approach is rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy as I believe our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are interconnected. Most of my clients are going through a transition in life or feel 'stuck' or they feel that they are in crisis and need support to process and plan next steps. My clients state that my personal style is practical, empathetic, and solution focused.
Hello everyone. My name is Cathy, and I have been working in the mental health sector for over 25 years. I am client-centered and believe that the therapeutic relationship needs to be based on trust, respect, and connection. My therapeutic approach is rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy as I believe our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are interconnected. Most of my clients are going through a transition in life or feel 'stuck' or they feel that they are in crisis and need support to process and plan next steps. My clients state that my personal style is practical, empathetic, and solution focused.
(437) 291-7424 View (437) 291-7424
Photo of Sherise Bailey, RP(Q), MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sherise Bailey
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M3C  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! I am honoured that you have come this far and hope that as you start your journey, my words can offer comfort. As a Black therapist and survivor of abuse, I pride myself in offering a therapy space that is warm, gentle yet directive to help you achieve your goals. I provide a safe container to hold space for your emotions and experiences. We all have unique needs and challenges. Whether it be a life transition, trauma, or simply needing a listening ear, I hope to be the support you need as we build this therapy relationship so you may feel safe enough to express yourself as you heal and grow.
Accepting New Clients! I am honoured that you have come this far and hope that as you start your journey, my words can offer comfort. As a Black therapist and survivor of abuse, I pride myself in offering a therapy space that is warm, gentle yet directive to help you achieve your goals. I provide a safe container to hold space for your emotions and experiences. We all have unique needs and challenges. Whether it be a life transition, trauma, or simply needing a listening ear, I hope to be the support you need as we build this therapy relationship so you may feel safe enough to express yourself as you heal and grow.
(587) 603-5651 View (587) 603-5651
Photo of Nadiatou Fagbemi, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Nadiatou Fagbemi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M3C  (Online Only)
Have others' expectations shaped how your life is? Do you feel stuck and not able to be who you want to be? Do you feel anxious or uncertain about your relationships? Do you frequently feel sad? Has a recent event created a sense of imbalance in your life? As a psychotherapist, I aim to use my own lived experiences and education to accompany you on the path to reclaiming and living the life that you want.
Have others' expectations shaped how your life is? Do you feel stuck and not able to be who you want to be? Do you feel anxious or uncertain about your relationships? Do you frequently feel sad? Has a recent event created a sense of imbalance in your life? As a psychotherapist, I aim to use my own lived experiences and education to accompany you on the path to reclaiming and living the life that you want.
(437) 747-8344 View (437) 747-8344
Photo of Derek Shin, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Derek Shin
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M3C  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a Registered Psychotherapist with a Masters Degree in Psychology who has been practicing and studying Mindfulness for the past 25 years. I also have extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, and Mindfulness Based Meditation. Every therapeutic tool I use in our work together is something I use in my daily life so I can be at my best as a Father, Husband, Son, Brother, Friend, and Community Member. My approach to our work together is that of a collaboration between adults seeking to understand the best path for your Health and Happiness.
I'm a Registered Psychotherapist with a Masters Degree in Psychology who has been practicing and studying Mindfulness for the past 25 years. I also have extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, and Mindfulness Based Meditation. Every therapeutic tool I use in our work together is something I use in my daily life so I can be at my best as a Father, Husband, Son, Brother, Friend, and Community Member. My approach to our work together is that of a collaboration between adults seeking to understand the best path for your Health and Happiness.
(647) 370-1498 View (647) 370-1498
Photo of Noor Bawa, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Noor Bawa
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M3C  (Online Only)
Have you been struggling with overwhelming feelings of anxiety, depression, & stress? Are you looking to reclaim your life and thrive in a space that celebrates your unique identity? My name is Noor (she/they) & I’m a Queer, South-Asian, & Neurodivergent therapist! With a deep understanding of the intersectionality between social identity and mental health, I am committed to helping you feel empowered through a person-centered, trauma-informed, and anti-oppressive approach. I am dedicated to supporting all individuals, but I'm particularly passionate about working with Queer, BIPOC, ENM/Poly, & Neurodivergent folx.
Have you been struggling with overwhelming feelings of anxiety, depression, & stress? Are you looking to reclaim your life and thrive in a space that celebrates your unique identity? My name is Noor (she/they) & I’m a Queer, South-Asian, & Neurodivergent therapist! With a deep understanding of the intersectionality between social identity and mental health, I am committed to helping you feel empowered through a person-centered, trauma-informed, and anti-oppressive approach. I am dedicated to supporting all individuals, but I'm particularly passionate about working with Queer, BIPOC, ENM/Poly, & Neurodivergent folx.
(437) 500-6321 View (437) 500-6321
Photo of Lauren Jeffery, RP, MA, CEA, Registered Psychotherapist
Lauren Jeffery
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, CEA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M3C
Life can feel like A LOT sometimes. Overwhelming emotions, financial issues, medicating with drugs, alcohol, food or sex, sleepless nights, relationship issues, and loneliness might be some of your current realities. Issues can stem from trauma, upbringing, or current life stressors and have severe emotional and physical ramifications. These issues can be far-reaching and devastating, personally, professionally and financially. Utilizing a person-centric psychodynamic approach combined with compassion and empathy, I am here to help you create the life you want.
Life can feel like A LOT sometimes. Overwhelming emotions, financial issues, medicating with drugs, alcohol, food or sex, sleepless nights, relationship issues, and loneliness might be some of your current realities. Issues can stem from trauma, upbringing, or current life stressors and have severe emotional and physical ramifications. These issues can be far-reaching and devastating, personally, professionally and financially. Utilizing a person-centric psychodynamic approach combined with compassion and empathy, I am here to help you create the life you want.
(437) 800-2489 View (437) 800-2489
Photo of Brian Fernandes, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Brian Fernandes
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M3C  (Online Only)
Many of us struggle with low mood, anxiety and the effects of trauma. Coping with these challenges can often lead us to behave in ways that we are not proud of, ways that do not reflect who we truly are. Having a professional, experienced in navigating some of theses challenges can help.
Many of us struggle with low mood, anxiety and the effects of trauma. Coping with these challenges can often lead us to behave in ways that we are not proud of, ways that do not reflect who we truly are. Having a professional, experienced in navigating some of theses challenges can help.
(437) 747-8568 View (437) 747-8568
Photo of DeRoux Jones, MSc, CP, MFT, Registered Psychotherapist
DeRoux Jones
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, CP, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M3C  (Online Only)
The ideal client seeks to break free from entrenched negative patterns, driven by a deep desire to rewrite their life's narrative. They are committed to overcoming the debilitating grip of depression and anxiety, striving for profound personal transformation. Their goal is to reclaim inner peace, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose, motivated by the aspiration to live a fulfilling and empowered life.
The ideal client seeks to break free from entrenched negative patterns, driven by a deep desire to rewrite their life's narrative. They are committed to overcoming the debilitating grip of depression and anxiety, striving for profound personal transformation. Their goal is to reclaim inner peace, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose, motivated by the aspiration to live a fulfilling and empowered life.
(343) 644-9232 View (343) 644-9232
1

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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.