Addiction Counselling in Liverpool

Photo of Simon Burgess, BACP, Counsellor
Simon Burgess
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Liverpool L1
I am a qualified counsellor/therapist to British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapist (BACP) standards and a BACP member with lived experience of addiction with my own, very effective framework, for treating addiction.
I specialise in Addiction. My approach is tracking at over 90% effective. (Clients still free of their addiction at the 1 year mark) I primarily work with addictions to Gambling, Drugs and Alcohol. My approach, the 4T's combines an assessment, therapy, and managed change, tracked over time. There is more at linkedin.com/in/simonburgess1 “The UK’s leading addiction therapist” where I’ve written over 40 articles covering many aspects of addiction and recovery. The 4T's are suitable for any addictive behaviour, get in touch and take advantage of a free 30 minute call to assess if it’s right for you.
I am a qualified counsellor/therapist to British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapist (BACP) standards and a BACP member with lived experience of addiction with my own, very effective framework, for treating addiction.
I specialise in Addiction. My approach is tracking at over 90% effective. (Clients still free of their addiction at the 1 year mark) I primarily work with addictions to Gambling, Drugs and Alcohol. My approach, the 4T's combines an assessment, therapy, and managed change, tracked over time. There is more at linkedin.com/in/simonburgess1 “The UK’s leading addiction therapist” where I’ve written over 40 articles covering many aspects of addiction and recovery. The 4T's are suitable for any addictive behaviour, get in touch and take advantage of a free 30 minute call to assess if it’s right for you.
020 3962 1751 View 020 3962 1751
Photo of Dave jones - Ashdales Therapy, BACP, Counsellor
Ashdales Therapy
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Liverpool L1
Hi, I'm Dave and I'm a fully qualified Integrative Counsellor. What I aim to provide, is a safe environment for you to explore any area of your life. I offer a free telephone consultation and a free 20 minute initial consultation, this would be to explain what counselling is and the process, commitment and fees involved. Sessions are confidential and the aim being to build a therapeutic relationship that can lead to change. Over the years I have come to recognize connection is so important in our lives, often anxiety, depression, addiction and emotional issues can lead us to disconnect from those around us.
Hi, I'm Dave and I'm a fully qualified Integrative Counsellor. What I aim to provide, is a safe environment for you to explore any area of your life. I offer a free telephone consultation and a free 20 minute initial consultation, this would be to explain what counselling is and the process, commitment and fees involved. Sessions are confidential and the aim being to build a therapeutic relationship that can lead to change. Over the years I have come to recognize connection is so important in our lives, often anxiety, depression, addiction and emotional issues can lead us to disconnect from those around us.
07480 782103 View 07480 782103
Photo of Dr Trevor Landry, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Trevor Landry
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Liverpool L1
I provide expert psychological asessment, diagnosis and therapy for a range of issues you may be struggling with including: Depression and other mood disorders, Anxiety, Stress, Self-Esteem, Attachment difficulties, Voice hearing, Bereavement, PTSD, Addiction, ADHD, Autism, Dementia, Chronic Pain, Brain Injury, Stroke and Cancer.
Like so many, I have suffered a great deal of loss, pain and anxiety in my life. This has inspired me to learn how best to support others who may also be struggling and for the last 20 years I have dedicated my life to developing my skills in Clinical Psychology to enhance my capacity to serve and support my clients. I have worked with and learned from so many people over the years, accross many contexts including; homelessness, mental health, addiction and with chronic health difficulties. I am an experienced and qualified Clinical Psychologist available to provide you with compassionate clinical care.
I provide expert psychological asessment, diagnosis and therapy for a range of issues you may be struggling with including: Depression and other mood disorders, Anxiety, Stress, Self-Esteem, Attachment difficulties, Voice hearing, Bereavement, PTSD, Addiction, ADHD, Autism, Dementia, Chronic Pain, Brain Injury, Stroke and Cancer.
Like so many, I have suffered a great deal of loss, pain and anxiety in my life. This has inspired me to learn how best to support others who may also be struggling and for the last 20 years I have dedicated my life to developing my skills in Clinical Psychology to enhance my capacity to serve and support my clients. I have worked with and learned from so many people over the years, accross many contexts including; homelessness, mental health, addiction and with chronic health difficulties. I am an experienced and qualified Clinical Psychologist available to provide you with compassionate clinical care.
01772 419803 View 01772 419803
Photo of Ishbel Grace Straker - I Straker Consultants
I Straker Consultants
Verified Verified
Liverpool L3
We use therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy as well as a prescribing service if appropriate and work with people who are both physically and/or psychologically impacted by mental health issues or addiction,.
As the owner and director of I Straker Consultants, working from my private practice at The Honeycomb Building in Liverpool city centre, we specialise in Anxiety, Depression, Drug, Alcohol, Mental Health, Perimenopausal and Gambling addiction treatment in Liverpool, Merseyside and the surrounding areas. . I Straker consultants specialises in ADHD assessments, diagnosis and treatment for adults.
We use therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy as well as a prescribing service if appropriate and work with people who are both physically and/or psychologically impacted by mental health issues or addiction,.
As the owner and director of I Straker Consultants, working from my private practice at The Honeycomb Building in Liverpool city centre, we specialise in Anxiety, Depression, Drug, Alcohol, Mental Health, Perimenopausal and Gambling addiction treatment in Liverpool, Merseyside and the surrounding areas. . I Straker consultants specialises in ADHD assessments, diagnosis and treatment for adults.
0151 318 5807 View 0151 318 5807
Photo of Drew Cass - Cass Therapy, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Cass Therapy
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Liverpool L1
Specifically worked in areas supporting people in crisis, low moods, anxiety stress and depression. Also helping people understand their addiction and the support available, theres possibility of working with familys too . Helping individuals gain an understanding of them selves to regain control, manageability and find stability. Helping you find your own path in life and support you to find your way out of the uncomfortable situations that may have arisen. Therapy can help in many areas of your life. In our session we will explore you to help find suitable solutions
Specifically worked in areas supporting people in crisis, low moods, anxiety stress and depression. Also helping people understand their addiction and the support available, theres possibility of working with familys too . Helping individuals gain an understanding of them selves to regain control, manageability and find stability. Helping you find your own path in life and support you to find your way out of the uncomfortable situations that may have arisen. Therapy can help in many areas of your life. In our session we will explore you to help find suitable solutions
01767 669814 View 01767 669814
Photo of Dr Ged Smith, PsychD, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Dr Ged Smith
Psychotherapist, PsychD, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Liverpool L18
Effective and practical help for anyone suffering from a range of issues, particularly family, couple and relationship matters. This is for individuals, families, couples and children. I also work with: anxiety - depression/low mood - stress - anger problems - panic attacks - low self-esteem - self-harming - addiction - relationship problems. I provide safe, reliable and practical help for emotional, behavioural and mental health difficulties.
Effective and practical help for anyone suffering from a range of issues, particularly family, couple and relationship matters. This is for individuals, families, couples and children. I also work with: anxiety - depression/low mood - stress - anger problems - panic attacks - low self-esteem - self-harming - addiction - relationship problems. I provide safe, reliable and practical help for emotional, behavioural and mental health difficulties.
01923 961909 View 01923 961909
Photo of Jamie Burns, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Jamie Burns
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Liverpool L12
Feeling anxious or stressed? Suffering with depression or low self-esteem? Having family, work or life related issues? Believe you have or have been given a diagnosis of ADHD or Autism and would like to know more about it? Do you have addiction issues? Or problems from the past you would like to explore. I am here to support you.
Feeling anxious or stressed? Suffering with depression or low self-esteem? Having family, work or life related issues? Believe you have or have been given a diagnosis of ADHD or Autism and would like to know more about it? Do you have addiction issues? Or problems from the past you would like to explore. I am here to support you.
0151 453 0819 View 0151 453 0819
Photo of Brian Jones, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Brian Jones
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Liverpool L31
I spent 14 years working with the NHS acute mental health services and addictions.
HI my name is Brian I am an integrative Counsellor based in Maghull, Liverpool. As a counsellor I support individuals to develop and grow whilst providing clients with a safe, relaxed and confidential space in which they can explore present or past issues. I offer a professional warm confidential counselling service to Adults, Young people and Children. on an individual basis or couples/families. "When you can't look on the bright side, I will sit with you in the dark"
I spent 14 years working with the NHS acute mental health services and addictions.
HI my name is Brian I am an integrative Counsellor based in Maghull, Liverpool. As a counsellor I support individuals to develop and grow whilst providing clients with a safe, relaxed and confidential space in which they can explore present or past issues. I offer a professional warm confidential counselling service to Adults, Young people and Children. on an individual basis or couples/families. "When you can't look on the bright side, I will sit with you in the dark"
0151 317 5021 View 0151 317 5021
Photo of Andrea Connell, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Andrea Connell
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Liverpool L17
I've worked with a diverse range of clients for issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, self-harm, eating disorders, OCD, PTSD, sexual abuse, domestic abuse, addiction, panic attacks, stress, bereavement and relationship problems.
We all have times when we feel lost, alone or misunderstood. We want things to change but we don’t know how. Unsure of what we want we may talk to family or friends, but all they do is offer opinions. Sometimes we have no one to talk to and remain trapped in isolation unsure of own truth. This is where counselling can help.
I've worked with a diverse range of clients for issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, self-harm, eating disorders, OCD, PTSD, sexual abuse, domestic abuse, addiction, panic attacks, stress, bereavement and relationship problems.
We all have times when we feel lost, alone or misunderstood. We want things to change but we don’t know how. Unsure of what we want we may talk to family or friends, but all they do is offer opinions. Sometimes we have no one to talk to and remain trapped in isolation unsure of own truth. This is where counselling can help.
0151 541 4057 View 0151 541 4057
Photo of Kiel Cathers, MA, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Kiel Cathers
Counsellor, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Liverpool L15  (Online Only)
I currently work with clients struggling with issues surrounding drug & alcohol addiction in a community rehab centre.
“People simply are not helped by advice. If they were, they wouldn’t have to come to a counsellor” — Carl Rogers I’m a big believer that people are the experts in themselves and that my role as a counsellor is to help facilitate that process of greater self-understanding. If there is something about yourself that has been giving you difficulty in life - repeating negative patterns for example - that you would like to change, then psychotherapy may be for you.
I currently work with clients struggling with issues surrounding drug & alcohol addiction in a community rehab centre.
“People simply are not helped by advice. If they were, they wouldn’t have to come to a counsellor” — Carl Rogers I’m a big believer that people are the experts in themselves and that my role as a counsellor is to help facilitate that process of greater self-understanding. If there is something about yourself that has been giving you difficulty in life - repeating negative patterns for example - that you would like to change, then psychotherapy may be for you.
028 9694 3784 View 028 9694 3784
Photo of Paula Stinson - Paula Stinson Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
Paula Stinson Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Liverpool L1  (Online Only)
Hiya, thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. I am a person-centred counsellor. and a registered member of the BACP. In addition to my training, I have a wealth of lived experience, specifically around mental health, addiction and recovery. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Hiya, thank you for taking the time to visit my profile. I am a person-centred counsellor. and a registered member of the BACP. In addition to my training, I have a wealth of lived experience, specifically around mental health, addiction and recovery. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
01833 600498 View 01833 600498
Photo of Suzie Li, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Suzie Li
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Liverpool L1  (Online Only)
Seeking support for challenges like addiction, depression, anxiety, body image, work-related issues, gender identity, or career guidance? I'm committed to a collaborative approach to identify and understand the root causes.
Struggling with emotional challenges or seeking personal growth? As a compassionate counsellor, I'm committed to helping you lead a more fulfilling life. In our sessions, we'll collaboratively explore the impacts of your environment, experiences, and relationships on your choices. Specialising in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and relationship issues, I cater to both young people and adults. I also guide in achieving a healthy work-life balance. If professional advancement is your goal, my executive coaching services are here to assist. Let's start this healing and empowering journey together.
Seeking support for challenges like addiction, depression, anxiety, body image, work-related issues, gender identity, or career guidance? I'm committed to a collaborative approach to identify and understand the root causes.
Struggling with emotional challenges or seeking personal growth? As a compassionate counsellor, I'm committed to helping you lead a more fulfilling life. In our sessions, we'll collaboratively explore the impacts of your environment, experiences, and relationships on your choices. Specialising in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and relationship issues, I cater to both young people and adults. I also guide in achieving a healthy work-life balance. If professional advancement is your goal, my executive coaching services are here to assist. Let's start this healing and empowering journey together.
07927 710050 View 07927 710050
Photo of Karen Atkinson Stress Anxiety Well-Being Specialist, BACP, Psychotherapist
Karen Atkinson Stress Anxiety Well-Being Specialist
Psychotherapist, BACP
Verified Verified
Liverpool L1
Stress and anxiety can creep into our lives from all sorts of places whether its struggling with substance use to feeling down at work, navigating tricky relationships, or dealing with tough events. We're all human and let's face it none of us are perfect. Sometimes, we just need a bit of support to get through those rough patches. It's hard to watch someone you care about struggle, and often, family members seek support while supporting their loved ones.
Stress and anxiety can creep into our lives from all sorts of places whether its struggling with substance use to feeling down at work, navigating tricky relationships, or dealing with tough events. We're all human and let's face it none of us are perfect. Sometimes, we just need a bit of support to get through those rough patches. It's hard to watch someone you care about struggle, and often, family members seek support while supporting their loved ones.
07862 734271 View 07862 734271
Photo of Chi Ko Psychosexual Relationship Therapist, MSc, COSRT Accred, Psychotherapist
Chi Ko Psychosexual Relationship Therapist
Psychotherapist, MSc, COSRT Accred
Verified Verified
Liverpool L1
Specialising in Psychosexual and Relationship Therapy, Chi is also a Yoga Teacher, working somatically alongside EMDR technique to work with a range of conditions that relate to trauma, addiction, phobia, fear, betrayal, loss and cPTSD.
Chi is a Sex and Relationship Psychotherapist, accredited by BACP and COSRT. He also works with people with sexual addictive behaviour and compulsivity. He has an excellent working knowledge on a range of psychiatric and mental health conditions.
Specialising in Psychosexual and Relationship Therapy, Chi is also a Yoga Teacher, working somatically alongside EMDR technique to work with a range of conditions that relate to trauma, addiction, phobia, fear, betrayal, loss and cPTSD.
Chi is a Sex and Relationship Psychotherapist, accredited by BACP and COSRT. He also works with people with sexual addictive behaviour and compulsivity. He has an excellent working knowledge on a range of psychiatric and mental health conditions.
0161 696 8319 View 0161 696 8319
Photo of Estelle Dooley - Estelle Dooley, MA, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Estelle Dooley
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Liverpool L18  (Online Only)
I offer compassionate support for Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem, Abuse including Narcissistic abuse, Bereavement, Stress, Work issues, Family issues, Relationship breakdown, Neurodiversity (Autism, ADHD) LGBTQIA, Addiction & more just ask if your issue is not listed here.
I offer a warm, empathic, confidential space for you to explore safely a current situation, something from your past, or a future concern. I will help and support you through. Accredited Award-Winning Therapist and Coach with 18 years of experience in Mental health, Abuse, Grief, Addiction, & more just ask. You will gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your situation, with all the tools you need to make positive changes in your life leaving you feeling empowered, and strong. See my reviews from clients who already have by visiting my website www.estelledooley.com.
I offer compassionate support for Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem, Abuse including Narcissistic abuse, Bereavement, Stress, Work issues, Family issues, Relationship breakdown, Neurodiversity (Autism, ADHD) LGBTQIA, Addiction & more just ask if your issue is not listed here.
I offer a warm, empathic, confidential space for you to explore safely a current situation, something from your past, or a future concern. I will help and support you through. Accredited Award-Winning Therapist and Coach with 18 years of experience in Mental health, Abuse, Grief, Addiction, & more just ask. You will gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your situation, with all the tools you need to make positive changes in your life leaving you feeling empowered, and strong. See my reviews from clients who already have by visiting my website www.estelledooley.com.
0151 317 2573 View 0151 317 2573
Photo of Toni Woods, Counsellor
Toni Woods
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Liverpool L18  (Online Only)
Hi , I have 15 years or so experience with mental health , i once did suffer severe anxiety which led to panic disorder , i have overcome this and now live anxiety free ,i also suffered with ptsd and depression . And also had alcohol issues in past and now qualified in counselling , i now manage a case load of 15 clients on a weekly basis who suffer addiction problems and mental illness ,I believe nobody should have to suffer feeling scared or alone , .weather your scared to leave the house due to crippling anxiety,or just need some support to gain motivation again I’m here to help will all , Toni
Hi , I have 15 years or so experience with mental health , i once did suffer severe anxiety which led to panic disorder , i have overcome this and now live anxiety free ,i also suffered with ptsd and depression . And also had alcohol issues in past and now qualified in counselling , i now manage a case load of 15 clients on a weekly basis who suffer addiction problems and mental illness ,I believe nobody should have to suffer feeling scared or alone , .weather your scared to leave the house due to crippling anxiety,or just need some support to gain motivation again I’m here to help will all , Toni
01925 595759 View 01925 595759
Photo of Dr Lucy Flitton, PhD, FMBPsS, Psychologist
Dr Lucy Flitton
Psychologist, PhD, FMBPsS
Verified Verified
Liverpool L14  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include trauma, and abuse and their consequences such as anxiety, poor self-esteem, relationship difficulties, problems with sleep, substance abuse, low moods, and other struggles.
Do you struggle with anxiety and self-esteem that affects your day-to-day life, and your relationships? Do you feel overwhelmed by your emotions, and wonder whether you will ever be able to manage them? Do you hope to be able to gain a sense of control over your life? Now more than ever, people are feeling uncertain about their ability to connect to others and the world around them. If you can relate to these difficulties, I can help you develop healthy coping mechanisms to build a life of meaning and purpose.
My areas of expertise include trauma, and abuse and their consequences such as anxiety, poor self-esteem, relationship difficulties, problems with sleep, substance abuse, low moods, and other struggles.
Do you struggle with anxiety and self-esteem that affects your day-to-day life, and your relationships? Do you feel overwhelmed by your emotions, and wonder whether you will ever be able to manage them? Do you hope to be able to gain a sense of control over your life? Now more than ever, people are feeling uncertain about their ability to connect to others and the world around them. If you can relate to these difficulties, I can help you develop healthy coping mechanisms to build a life of meaning and purpose.
01244 564148 View 01244 564148
Photo of Niki Stavrianou, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Niki Stavrianou
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Liverpool L1
I provide safe, confidential and professional psychological therapy which aims to help people to learn to listen and communicate better with their emotions, reflect on their experiences, understand patterns of thoughts and behaviors which may be problematic, and support themselves by investing on the voyage towards self-awareness and self-care. My empathetic approach doesn’t involve judgments of any kind.
I provide safe, confidential and professional psychological therapy which aims to help people to learn to listen and communicate better with their emotions, reflect on their experiences, understand patterns of thoughts and behaviors which may be problematic, and support themselves by investing on the voyage towards self-awareness and self-care. My empathetic approach doesn’t involve judgments of any kind.
0113 733 6703 View 0113 733 6703
Photo of Michelle Jean LeBrocq - Perspective Psychotherapy, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Perspective Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Liverpool L26
I'm an experienced UKCP accredited, psychotherapist and have been practising for 28years. I have  worked  in a diverse range of settings and I am able to apply my psycho therapeutic skills appropriately and draw on a range of psycho therapeutic models to inform my work. I employ an integrative approach utilising Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Cognitive Analytical Therapy with an earlier background in Person Centred Therapy. I have completed a Diploma in Clinical Supervision and offer clinical supervision. I have particular strengths in occupational stress, anxiety, depression management, eating disorders.
I'm an experienced UKCP accredited, psychotherapist and have been practising for 28years. I have  worked  in a diverse range of settings and I am able to apply my psycho therapeutic skills appropriately and draw on a range of psycho therapeutic models to inform my work. I employ an integrative approach utilising Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Cognitive Analytical Therapy with an earlier background in Person Centred Therapy. I have completed a Diploma in Clinical Supervision and offer clinical supervision. I have particular strengths in occupational stress, anxiety, depression management, eating disorders.
01923 961690 View 01923 961690
Photo of Natasha Hughes, MBACP, Counsellor
Natasha Hughes
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Liverpool L3
I offer professional, counselling experience in which you are able to explore your issues in a safe warm environment. Hourly sessions are offered from 4pm - 8pm Monday - Friday and Saturday mornings. I personally believe many people will benefit from counselling by helping individuals to understand their difficult experiences, along side the feelings and emotions attached to it. This process can be empowering, by enabling the client to work towards changing their lives to become more fulfilled. It takes great courage and strength to accept help with mental and emotional well-being, to work collaboratively.
I offer professional, counselling experience in which you are able to explore your issues in a safe warm environment. Hourly sessions are offered from 4pm - 8pm Monday - Friday and Saturday mornings. I personally believe many people will benefit from counselling by helping individuals to understand their difficult experiences, along side the feelings and emotions attached to it. This process can be empowering, by enabling the client to work towards changing their lives to become more fulfilled. It takes great courage and strength to accept help with mental and emotional well-being, to work collaboratively.
0151 541 4497 View 0151 541 4497
1

See more therapy options for Liverpool

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.