Addiction Counselling in Warrington

Photo of David John Cooper - Dave Cooper Counselling, MSc, ACC-AC, Psychotherapist
Dave Cooper Counselling
Psychotherapist, MSc, ACC-AC
Verified Verified
Warrington WA2
I work with every kind of addiction and dependence. Unlike residential approaches, I work with you whilst you are at home and at work. In your real life. Issues that I consider my approach successful with are - alcohol, cocaine and other drugs. internet based dependencies such as social media and gaming. Workaholism and relationship depndency. Sexual and relationship addiction. prescription medication dependency. Comfort eating and overeating as well as restricting and self starving.
I work with every kind of addiction and dependence. Unlike residential approaches, I work with you whilst you are at home and at work. In your real life. Issues that I consider my approach successful with are - alcohol, cocaine and other drugs. internet based dependencies such as social media and gaming. Workaholism and relationship depndency. Sexual and relationship addiction. prescription medication dependency. Comfort eating and overeating as well as restricting and self starving.
01925 989871 View 01925 989871
Photo of Sandra Wakefield, MBACP, Counsellor
Sandra Wakefield
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Warrington WA5
I work with adults who have experienced a wide range of issues, such as anxiety, depression, loss, trauma and addiction.
Hi, I'm Sandra, a counsellor based in Warrington, Cheshire. Sometimes we need to let go of things that are on our minds but are afraid of the consequences therefore life feels outside of our control and the ability to cope seems not enough. You may need more support to help you rediscover your spirit and qualities by picking your way through what is going on in your life. I know the importance of feeling safe as I have lived life experiences in emotional situations so understanding the way you are feeling, and the thoughts you have will bring challenges but we can explore these feelings together as we build on our relationship.
I work with adults who have experienced a wide range of issues, such as anxiety, depression, loss, trauma and addiction.
Hi, I'm Sandra, a counsellor based in Warrington, Cheshire. Sometimes we need to let go of things that are on our minds but are afraid of the consequences therefore life feels outside of our control and the ability to cope seems not enough. You may need more support to help you rediscover your spirit and qualities by picking your way through what is going on in your life. I know the importance of feeling safe as I have lived life experiences in emotional situations so understanding the way you are feeling, and the thoughts you have will bring challenges but we can explore these feelings together as we build on our relationship.
01925 948106 View 01925 948106
Photo of Victoria Mawdsley - VJM Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
VJM Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrington WA3  (Online Only)
Hi I'm Vicky and I am a counsellor based in Warrington, Cheshire. I have experience in working with individuals struggling with addiction, trauma, bereavement & anxiety. I use an integrative approach which is mainly person centred and I will bring in other aspects of therapy such as mindfulness to tailor the sessions to your needs. This will help you to lead the sessions and equip you with tools and strategies to help you manage day-to-day. I'm BACP registered and comply to their ethical framework.
Hi I'm Vicky and I am a counsellor based in Warrington, Cheshire. I have experience in working with individuals struggling with addiction, trauma, bereavement & anxiety. I use an integrative approach which is mainly person centred and I will bring in other aspects of therapy such as mindfulness to tailor the sessions to your needs. This will help you to lead the sessions and equip you with tools and strategies to help you manage day-to-day. I'm BACP registered and comply to their ethical framework.
01942 559569 View 01942 559569
Photo of Dave jones - Ashdales Therapy, BACP, Counsellor
Ashdales Therapy
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Warrington WA1
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 Sallyann Meadowcroft, MBACP, Counsellor
Sallyann Meadowcroft
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrington WA1
I am a experienced school based and adult counsellor, I specialise in issues: past/ present relationships, addiction, the effects of others addiction, anxiety, grief, depression, trauma, and low self esteem.
Welcome I’m Sally, life is a roller coaster, we ride the highs and struggle with the painful lows. I understand taking the step to seek help and share your experiences is hard and scary, it takes courage, so trust is paramount within the therapeutic relationship. I offer a safe, supportive, non judgmental and empathetic environment, taking your direction to walk along side you. Time is precious, our own needs are usually low on our list. Focusing on ourselves and investing in our well-being enables growth and clarity. Self love is core in all of our relationships. Finding our own inner happiness and taking power back, creates peace
I am a experienced school based and adult counsellor, I specialise in issues: past/ present relationships, addiction, the effects of others addiction, anxiety, grief, depression, trauma, and low self esteem.
Welcome I’m Sally, life is a roller coaster, we ride the highs and struggle with the painful lows. I understand taking the step to seek help and share your experiences is hard and scary, it takes courage, so trust is paramount within the therapeutic relationship. I offer a safe, supportive, non judgmental and empathetic environment, taking your direction to walk along side you. Time is precious, our own needs are usually low on our list. Focusing on ourselves and investing in our well-being enables growth and clarity. Self love is core in all of our relationships. Finding our own inner happiness and taking power back, creates peace
01925 986804 View 01925 986804
Photo of Lee Rowland, MBACP, Counsellor
Lee Rowland
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Warrington WA3
I am a trusted Psychodynamic/CBT Therapist. I have helped many break through the obstacles holding them back; Life’s too short to be unhappy, unsure or unfulfilled. Let me help you learn and develop better ways to handle the issues that are standing in the way of your goals. I am proficient in issues including, Early Life Experiences, ADHD, Addiction, Alcohol/Drug issues, OCD/Phobias, Anxiety/Depression, Work Related Stress, PTSD, Autistic Spectrum, Bereavement, Anger Management, Domestic Violence, Panic Disorder.
I am a trusted Psychodynamic/CBT Therapist. I have helped many break through the obstacles holding them back; Life’s too short to be unhappy, unsure or unfulfilled. Let me help you learn and develop better ways to handle the issues that are standing in the way of your goals. I am proficient in issues including, Early Life Experiences, ADHD, Addiction, Alcohol/Drug issues, OCD/Phobias, Anxiety/Depression, Work Related Stress, PTSD, Autistic Spectrum, Bereavement, Anger Management, Domestic Violence, Panic Disorder.
0151 453 6765 View 0151 453 6765
Photo of Claire Colwell - Claire Bee Counselling, BACP, Counsellor
Claire Bee Counselling
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Warrington WA2
Do you feel stuck, maybe with low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, or with things from your past holding you back? Do you feel lonely, lost, uncertain or unable to make decisions for fear of making the wrong choice? Do you need support to see clearly and communicate effectively? Are you struggling with addiction, anxiety or depression? Are you feeling low or worthless? Are you finding it hard to come to terms with grief, loss, divorce, infidelity, or abuse? I have supported clients through these and other issues, and I will be with you in a non-judgemental, supportive way though whatever you're facing.
Do you feel stuck, maybe with low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, or with things from your past holding you back? Do you feel lonely, lost, uncertain or unable to make decisions for fear of making the wrong choice? Do you need support to see clearly and communicate effectively? Are you struggling with addiction, anxiety or depression? Are you feeling low or worthless? Are you finding it hard to come to terms with grief, loss, divorce, infidelity, or abuse? I have supported clients through these and other issues, and I will be with you in a non-judgemental, supportive way though whatever you're facing.
01925 361824 View 01925 361824
Julie Ashworth
Counsellor, PsychD, MBACP
Verified Verified
Warrington WA3
I work with individuals, couples and families with experience in managing anxiety & stress, bereavement, depression, relationship/family issues, child/adolescent clients, cancer support, post traumatic stress disorder/trauma, pregnancy & birth, abuse, addiction, sexual and transgender, anger & self harm.
Hi, my name is Julie. I am a professional Counsellor and Supervisor and an member of the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP) and the National Counselling Society. I provide a confidential, counselling service to meet your individual needs providing a safe, non-judgemental environment where you can work at your own pace in a place of safety and comfort where your feelings and emotions can be expressed and explored. I offer support and understanding in a non-critical way and appreciate and respect differences and diversity in culture, ethnicity, race, gender, sexuality, physical ability and spirituality
I work with individuals, couples and families with experience in managing anxiety & stress, bereavement, depression, relationship/family issues, child/adolescent clients, cancer support, post traumatic stress disorder/trauma, pregnancy & birth, abuse, addiction, sexual and transgender, anger & self harm.
Hi, my name is Julie. I am a professional Counsellor and Supervisor and an member of the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP) and the National Counselling Society. I provide a confidential, counselling service to meet your individual needs providing a safe, non-judgemental environment where you can work at your own pace in a place of safety and comfort where your feelings and emotions can be expressed and explored. I offer support and understanding in a non-critical way and appreciate and respect differences and diversity in culture, ethnicity, race, gender, sexuality, physical ability and spirituality
01925 938944 View 01925 938944
Photo of Stephanie Mills, BACP, Counsellor
Stephanie Mills
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Warrington WA3
I am a fully-qualified Person-Centred counsellor with further training in the Rewind Technique for use in the treatment of phobias and PTSD, and I am also a fully qualified ATSAC Sex Addiction therapist with experience in working with sex and love addicts, and their partners and families using solution-focused therapy techniques.
Hiya, I’m Steph, thank you for reading my profile.‍ There is no problem too big or too small, and I like to make my clients feel comfortable and safe enough that they feel able to bring absolutely anything to our sessions – there is no topic off limits. Giving you back control of your life is important to me, so our sessions together will be about making sure that you are getting exactly what you want and need to help you work through your problem. I’ll be by your side the whole way; you’ve got this!
I am a fully-qualified Person-Centred counsellor with further training in the Rewind Technique for use in the treatment of phobias and PTSD, and I am also a fully qualified ATSAC Sex Addiction therapist with experience in working with sex and love addicts, and their partners and families using solution-focused therapy techniques.
Hiya, I’m Steph, thank you for reading my profile.‍ There is no problem too big or too small, and I like to make my clients feel comfortable and safe enough that they feel able to bring absolutely anything to our sessions – there is no topic off limits. Giving you back control of your life is important to me, so our sessions together will be about making sure that you are getting exactly what you want and need to help you work through your problem. I’ll be by your side the whole way; you’ve got this!
01942 925907 View 01942 925907
Photo of Suzie Li, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Suzie Li
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Warrington WN7  (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 Lee Wrench, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Lee Wrench
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Warrington WA1
Hi, I'm Lee and I’m a fully qualified and experienced Person centred therapist. Approaching therapy as a person centred counsellor allows me to work with many different presenting issues with each unique client and as No two clients are the same, no two sessions of therapy will be the same. I offer a friendly, professional counselling service in a confidential setting. As a counsellor I am accepting, genuine and understanding. I am passionate about my work and through my experience I have found it a privilege to be a part of my clients journey.
Hi, I'm Lee and I’m a fully qualified and experienced Person centred therapist. Approaching therapy as a person centred counsellor allows me to work with many different presenting issues with each unique client and as No two clients are the same, no two sessions of therapy will be the same. I offer a friendly, professional counselling service in a confidential setting. As a counsellor I am accepting, genuine and understanding. I am passionate about my work and through my experience I have found it a privilege to be a part of my clients journey.
01983 211864 View 01983 211864
Photo of Sam Glancy, MBACP, Counsellor
Sam Glancy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrington WA1
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed, depressed or anxious? Do you feel haunted by your past? Does it feel like you’re not in the driving seat of your own life, repeating the same patterns of behaviour that have a negative impact on you or others around you? Do you want things to change? It’s very easy in today’s world to become lost, not able to navigate our way through and find meaning, which can lead to feeling like we have no compass guiding us. We might lean on people, places or behaviours that help us to cope in the moment but take away our power. I work with people who want to find their way again.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, depressed or anxious? Do you feel haunted by your past? Does it feel like you’re not in the driving seat of your own life, repeating the same patterns of behaviour that have a negative impact on you or others around you? Do you want things to change? It’s very easy in today’s world to become lost, not able to navigate our way through and find meaning, which can lead to feeling like we have no compass guiding us. We might lean on people, places or behaviours that help us to cope in the moment but take away our power. I work with people who want to find their way again.
01925 598078 View 01925 598078
Photo of Dr Omar A. Kowlessar, PsychD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Omar A. Kowlessar
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrington WA3
I have over 20 years experience of working in the area of Adult Mental Health, working with males and females across the entire life span cycle (teenagers to older adults) treating a variety of mental health difficulties, ranging from common mental health problems (depression, anxiety disorders) to severe and enduring mental health difficulties (psychosis, personality disorders). I currently work as a Chartered Consultant Clinical Psychologist and run a private therapy practice out of my office in Warrington (Cheshire) where I provide a range of services to the public. Please have a look at my clinic pictures.
I have over 20 years experience of working in the area of Adult Mental Health, working with males and females across the entire life span cycle (teenagers to older adults) treating a variety of mental health difficulties, ranging from common mental health problems (depression, anxiety disorders) to severe and enduring mental health difficulties (psychosis, personality disorders). I currently work as a Chartered Consultant Clinical Psychologist and run a private therapy practice out of my office in Warrington (Cheshire) where I provide a range of services to the public. Please have a look at my clinic pictures.
01942 316263 View 01942 316263
Photo of Liddy Carver - Dr Liddy Carver, PhD, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Dr Liddy Carver
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Warrington WA4
Online Counselling/Psychotherapy available via Zoom or Skype. Based in Warrington,Cheshire, I am a highly qualified therapist with a PhD in Counselling and MSc in Clinical Counselling. As an experienced BACP Registered and Accredited Person-Centred Counsellor and Psychotherapist, I provide a safe, professional and confidential talking therapy service for individuals, couples and families. My work is influenced by the Person-Centred Approach based on acceptance, empathy and genuineness. I am also a qualified practitioner in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Regulation) and a Clinical Supervisor trained at postgraduate level.
Online Counselling/Psychotherapy available via Zoom or Skype. Based in Warrington,Cheshire, I am a highly qualified therapist with a PhD in Counselling and MSc in Clinical Counselling. As an experienced BACP Registered and Accredited Person-Centred Counsellor and Psychotherapist, I provide a safe, professional and confidential talking therapy service for individuals, couples and families. My work is influenced by the Person-Centred Approach based on acceptance, empathy and genuineness. I am also a qualified practitioner in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Regulation) and a Clinical Supervisor trained at postgraduate level.
01925 938935 View 01925 938935
Photo of Elaine June DEVLIN - EJD Counselling, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
EJD Counselling
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Warrington WA1
Do you feel you are being bullied and don’t know where to turn? Are you feeling anxious, stressed, depressed, guilty or embarrassed? I can help you. I offer you a safe, warm, non-judgemental space where you can be heard. By sharing your story, together, we can explore and understand your feelings, and learn to overcome the barriers which are limiting your happiness. My name is Elaine and I am an Integrative Counsellor.
Do you feel you are being bullied and don’t know where to turn? Are you feeling anxious, stressed, depressed, guilty or embarrassed? I can help you. I offer you a safe, warm, non-judgemental space where you can be heard. By sharing your story, together, we can explore and understand your feelings, and learn to overcome the barriers which are limiting your happiness. My name is Elaine and I am an Integrative Counsellor.
01925 906958 View 01925 906958
Photo of Moira Cash Bsc(Hons), MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Moira Cash Bsc(Hons)
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Warrington WA5
There is a quote by a lady called Anaïs Nin – “And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom" – a quote in which I firmly believe and embodies how vulnerable people feel when considering contacting a Counsellor for the first time. It is always helpful to talk to someone, especially when that someone is trained to listen and help in a specialised and interactive way. A counsellor is not there to judge you, nor are they there to tell you what to do. Instead counselling provides a safe and respectful environment to express and explore your feelings and troubles.
There is a quote by a lady called Anaïs Nin – “And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom" – a quote in which I firmly believe and embodies how vulnerable people feel when considering contacting a Counsellor for the first time. It is always helpful to talk to someone, especially when that someone is trained to listen and help in a specialised and interactive way. A counsellor is not there to judge you, nor are they there to tell you what to do. Instead counselling provides a safe and respectful environment to express and explore your feelings and troubles.
01925 906949 View 01925 906949
Photo of Oliver Pool - Hear4U Counselling, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Hear4U Counselling
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Warrington WA4
Welcome to my profile. My number one aim, passion and priority is to make a positive difference to your life. For me, counselling is a process that supports, empowers and facilitates well-being. A space that you can trust with no judgement or criticism for you to feel free to express and explore what’s important to you. I offer an empathic nurturing relationship so that you are supported to achieve your goals, whether it would be personal development and self-actualisation or to overcome distressing/traumatic events, thoughts or feelings. Attentively, I actively listen to you so I understand deeply, you and your lived experiences.
Welcome to my profile. My number one aim, passion and priority is to make a positive difference to your life. For me, counselling is a process that supports, empowers and facilitates well-being. A space that you can trust with no judgement or criticism for you to feel free to express and explore what’s important to you. I offer an empathic nurturing relationship so that you are supported to achieve your goals, whether it would be personal development and self-actualisation or to overcome distressing/traumatic events, thoughts or feelings. Attentively, I actively listen to you so I understand deeply, you and your lived experiences.
01628 904151 View 01628 904151
Photo of Debra Perriam, Psychotherapist
Debra Perriam
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Warrington WA1
Feeling vulnerable and overwhelmed by life’s events can happen to any of us and usually occurs at the most inappropriate time. Do you feel unable to make sense of how you feel? Do you have difficulties in relationships? Have you noticed the same patterns of behaviour happening repetitively in your life? Do you have low self-confidence/self-esteem? Do you suffer with anxiety and/or depression? If you have answered yes to any of the above, then I may be able to help you.
Feeling vulnerable and overwhelmed by life’s events can happen to any of us and usually occurs at the most inappropriate time. Do you feel unable to make sense of how you feel? Do you have difficulties in relationships? Have you noticed the same patterns of behaviour happening repetitively in your life? Do you have low self-confidence/self-esteem? Do you suffer with anxiety and/or depression? If you have answered yes to any of the above, then I may be able to help you.
01890 545573 View 01890 545573
Photo of Gillian Rayner, PhD, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Gillian Rayner
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrington WA2
I work with clients who have a wide variety of experiences, issues and needs. Many of my clients want to become less self critical and more accepting of themselves. They want to learn more about how their presenting issues connect together and what they can do to have better. Clients may want to understand themselves and their interactions with other people and enhance their self-esteem and confidence.
I work with clients who have a wide variety of experiences, issues and needs. Many of my clients want to become less self critical and more accepting of themselves. They want to learn more about how their presenting issues connect together and what they can do to have better. Clients may want to understand themselves and their interactions with other people and enhance their self-esteem and confidence.
01925 931604 View 01925 931604
Photo of Sandra Hurree, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Sandra Hurree
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Warrington WA1
I am a qualified BACP Accredited and experienced Person Centred Counsellor, and CPCAB qualified Therapeutic Counselling Supervisor following the Hawkins & Shohet's 7 Eyed Model of Supervision, and my aim is to help, support, guide and mentor individuals in overcoming their most difficult challenges, and empower clients to find their own path and facilitate positive change and personal growth. My aim is to commit to providing a safe and confidential space, offering a non-judgemental approach, believing in your ability to self-heal, whilst I walk alongside you as you explore your inner world and journey of self-exploration.
I am a qualified BACP Accredited and experienced Person Centred Counsellor, and CPCAB qualified Therapeutic Counselling Supervisor following the Hawkins & Shohet's 7 Eyed Model of Supervision, and my aim is to help, support, guide and mentor individuals in overcoming their most difficult challenges, and empower clients to find their own path and facilitate positive change and personal growth. My aim is to commit to providing a safe and confidential space, offering a non-judgemental approach, believing in your ability to self-heal, whilst I walk alongside you as you explore your inner world and journey of self-exploration.
01925 598664 View 01925 598664
1

See more therapy options for Warrington

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.