Addiction Counselling in Wigan

Photo of Joshua David Ronnay-Fisher - Be Better Counselling, BACP, Counsellor
Be Better Counselling
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Wigan WN3
I work with clients who are experiencing a broad spectrum of issues from depression and anxiety to addiction.
As a fully-qualified and experienced counsellor, I take a holistic approach to person centred therapy. I believe firmly in the importance of building up a strong relationship with my clients in order to improve their self-esteem and empower them to make the necessary changes in their lives. Offering a non-judgemental and approachable listening ear, it’s my mission to help those who need it most, especially those who have already had a negative experience of counselling, I practice in a safe, welcoming and comfortable environment.
I work with clients who are experiencing a broad spectrum of issues from depression and anxiety to addiction.
As a fully-qualified and experienced counsellor, I take a holistic approach to person centred therapy. I believe firmly in the importance of building up a strong relationship with my clients in order to improve their self-esteem and empower them to make the necessary changes in their lives. Offering a non-judgemental and approachable listening ear, it’s my mission to help those who need it most, especially those who have already had a negative experience of counselling, I practice in a safe, welcoming and comfortable environment.
01695 668998 View 01695 668998
Photo of Ally louise Kenny - New Beginnings Counselling service, MBACP, Psychotherapist
New Beginnings Counselling service
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Wigan WN2  (Online Only)
I have a special interest in addiction and have many years experience in this area.
It can very difficult to take the first steps to get help, my aim is to provide you with a trusting caring , and non-judgemental environment. I have many years experience as working as an Integrative Psychotherapist, and specialise in treating addiction, and am fully qualified to work with sexual addiction. I am trauma informed practioner. I have a BA degree in Person Centred Therapy , and a Diploma in Sexual Addiction. I work with the following issues ; Clinical depression, Generalised anxiety disorders, , Suicidal Ideation, depression , Stress, panic attacks, Low self esteem, Bereavement , relationship problems and Gender issues.
I have a special interest in addiction and have many years experience in this area.
It can very difficult to take the first steps to get help, my aim is to provide you with a trusting caring , and non-judgemental environment. I have many years experience as working as an Integrative Psychotherapist, and specialise in treating addiction, and am fully qualified to work with sexual addiction. I am trauma informed practioner. I have a BA degree in Person Centred Therapy , and a Diploma in Sexual Addiction. I work with the following issues ; Clinical depression, Generalised anxiety disorders, , Suicidal Ideation, depression , Stress, panic attacks, Low self esteem, Bereavement , relationship problems and Gender issues.
01228 585242 View 01228 585242
Photo of Toni Woods, Counsellor
Toni Woods
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Wigan WN5  (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 Stephanie Mills, BACP, Counsellor
Stephanie Mills
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Wigan WN4
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 Kate Farmer, BACP, Counsellor
Kate Farmer
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Wigan WN3
I have experience in Autism, addiction services, bereavement, domestic violence, stalking, safeguarding, Dementia, severe Mental Health including personality disorders.
Welcome to Calming Minds. Do you have relationship difficulties? Do you have low mood, self-worth, issues with confidence and/or depression and anxiety? Have you experience traumatic events? If any of this sounds familiar, I could make a difference to your wellbeing. I am here to listen and validate you towards positive lasting change.
I have experience in Autism, addiction services, bereavement, domestic violence, stalking, safeguarding, Dementia, severe Mental Health including personality disorders.
Welcome to Calming Minds. Do you have relationship difficulties? Do you have low mood, self-worth, issues with confidence and/or depression and anxiety? Have you experience traumatic events? If any of this sounds familiar, I could make a difference to your wellbeing. I am here to listen and validate you towards positive lasting change.
01257 446937 View 01257 446937
Photo of Jen Ennis, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Jen Ennis
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Wigan WN2
There comes a point for many people when distress, anxiety and confusion take hold and psychological help is needed. Sometimes the reasons for this seem all too apparent and sometimes they are quite baffling. It can be enormously helpful to talk things through with a professional person who is unconnected with your family and friends. I am warm, empathetic and genuine. I'm a qualified therapeutic counsellor with over 13 years’ experience working with both adults and young people. I am a registered member of the BACP, working in accordance with its Ethical Framework. I am based in Hindley, near Wigan.
There comes a point for many people when distress, anxiety and confusion take hold and psychological help is needed. Sometimes the reasons for this seem all too apparent and sometimes they are quite baffling. It can be enormously helpful to talk things through with a professional person who is unconnected with your family and friends. I am warm, empathetic and genuine. I'm a qualified therapeutic counsellor with over 13 years’ experience working with both adults and young people. I am a registered member of the BACP, working in accordance with its Ethical Framework. I am based in Hindley, near Wigan.
01942 914536 View 01942 914536
Photo of Denise Hare, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Denise Hare
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Wigan WN1
I offer talking therapy in a confidential, safe and relaxing environment. It may be easier to talk about personal issues, in an alternative place, with someone who is not involved and is totally non-judgemental. Counselling is my passion! I believe we were born to be real...not perfect. My belief in the process, how it works and in particular how the working alliance can help you to move forward never stops.
I offer talking therapy in a confidential, safe and relaxing environment. It may be easier to talk about personal issues, in an alternative place, with someone who is not involved and is totally non-judgemental. Counselling is my passion! I believe we were born to be real...not perfect. My belief in the process, how it works and in particular how the working alliance can help you to move forward never stops.
01695 302058 View 01695 302058
Photo of Sarah Preston, MBACP, Counsellor
Sarah Preston
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Wigan WN5
If you are struggling with relationships, loss, stress, or feeling lost and overwhelmed, you might feel like you’re stuck, don’t know where to turn or how to move forward. Sometimes we don’t know what to say, how to say it or even fully understand what we are feeling; it’s often not just one thing that we are feeling but a complex mix of different emotions. Our sessions together will give you the opportunity to be heard, to explore your emotions and unpick the difficulties you are having.
If you are struggling with relationships, loss, stress, or feeling lost and overwhelmed, you might feel like you’re stuck, don’t know where to turn or how to move forward. Sometimes we don’t know what to say, how to say it or even fully understand what we are feeling; it’s often not just one thing that we are feeling but a complex mix of different emotions. Our sessions together will give you the opportunity to be heard, to explore your emotions and unpick the difficulties you are having.
01744 415882 View 01744 415882
Photo of Vickie Anne Grant, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Vickie Anne Grant
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Wigan WN1
Im a person centred counsellor with 11 years experience working with a range of clients with different presenting needs from depression, low mood, bereavement, trauma related issues, relationship breakdowns, stress, and anxiety. I feel I offer a friendly but professional service and like to think I’m a warm and caring person who strives to support each and every single client I encounter. I feel my lived experiences really helps to shape the therapist I am and believe my deep empathy and caring nature helps to facilitate a safe space for clients to explored thoughts and feelings that they wish to share
Im a person centred counsellor with 11 years experience working with a range of clients with different presenting needs from depression, low mood, bereavement, trauma related issues, relationship breakdowns, stress, and anxiety. I feel I offer a friendly but professional service and like to think I’m a warm and caring person who strives to support each and every single client I encounter. I feel my lived experiences really helps to shape the therapist I am and believe my deep empathy and caring nature helps to facilitate a safe space for clients to explored thoughts and feelings that they wish to share
01942 925564 View 01942 925564
Photo of Karen Boyd-Pomfrett, MBACP, Counsellor
Karen Boyd-Pomfrett
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wigan WN5
As a BACP registred qualified Counsellor. I understand that everyone is unique and no therapy is "one size fits all". With this in mind I can work with clients of all ages from 16ys upwards. I offer the Face to Face sessions from my home in Orrell. Sessions are for 1 hour Face to Face, Telephone, or Whatsapp.I am a fully qualified Counsellor/Psychtherapist and also a Trauma Informed Therapist working in HMP Prison estates (men) and I am also involved in many voluntary places. My modality is Person Centred and I also hold qualifications in Greif and beareavment ,Compassion Focus Therapy and other therapy skills CBT , Inner Child.
As a BACP registred qualified Counsellor. I understand that everyone is unique and no therapy is "one size fits all". With this in mind I can work with clients of all ages from 16ys upwards. I offer the Face to Face sessions from my home in Orrell. Sessions are for 1 hour Face to Face, Telephone, or Whatsapp.I am a fully qualified Counsellor/Psychtherapist and also a Trauma Informed Therapist working in HMP Prison estates (men) and I am also involved in many voluntary places. My modality is Person Centred and I also hold qualifications in Greif and beareavment ,Compassion Focus Therapy and other therapy skills CBT , Inner Child.
01744 411461 View 01744 411461
Photo of Sara Luisa - Papillon Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist
Papillon Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Wigan WN6
Are you ready to move from struggle to freedom? Do you want to move from surviving to thriving? Hi, I’m Sara and whatever your current challenges, whether in relationship, with low self-esteem, anxiety, depression or trauma, our work together will enable you to begin to move through feelings of stuckness and pain towards healing and peace. ​I'm passionate about empowering my clients to gain clarity and heal the relationship towards themselves and others so they can live the life they truly deserve. If you're looking in-depth healing and lasting change, you've landed in the right place.
Are you ready to move from struggle to freedom? Do you want to move from surviving to thriving? Hi, I’m Sara and whatever your current challenges, whether in relationship, with low self-esteem, anxiety, depression or trauma, our work together will enable you to begin to move through feelings of stuckness and pain towards healing and peace. ​I'm passionate about empowering my clients to gain clarity and heal the relationship towards themselves and others so they can live the life they truly deserve. If you're looking in-depth healing and lasting change, you've landed in the right place.
01257 449424 View 01257 449424
Photo of Lynne Christine Hutton, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Lynne Christine Hutton
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Wigan WN6
I have a specialism in Bereavement and with clients bringing various issues: anxiety, depression, Suicidal thoughts, bereavement, stress, addictions,relationship issues including domestic violence, family issues, sexual/emotional/physical abuse, gender transitioning,bullying school/work, menopause, sexual difficulties, PTSD,chronic illness/pain, divorce.
Are you struggling with overwhelming emotions? I aim to provide a safe space, and my full presence to listen to you. I am a Person-Centred/Experiential Counsellor with a 1st Class BA (Hons) Degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy, working in an emotion-focused way. I am passionate about counselling. I offer a warm, empathic, non-judgemental space, which will hopefully enable you to share whatever you wish, to help to empower you to make positive change in your life. specialisms:Bereavement, Neurodiversity, Anxiety, Self-harm, Depression,Children in care/ safeguarding/Child Protection,victims of the Manchester terrorist attack.
I have a specialism in Bereavement and with clients bringing various issues: anxiety, depression, Suicidal thoughts, bereavement, stress, addictions,relationship issues including domestic violence, family issues, sexual/emotional/physical abuse, gender transitioning,bullying school/work, menopause, sexual difficulties, PTSD,chronic illness/pain, divorce.
Are you struggling with overwhelming emotions? I aim to provide a safe space, and my full presence to listen to you. I am a Person-Centred/Experiential Counsellor with a 1st Class BA (Hons) Degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy, working in an emotion-focused way. I am passionate about counselling. I offer a warm, empathic, non-judgemental space, which will hopefully enable you to share whatever you wish, to help to empower you to make positive change in your life. specialisms:Bereavement, Neurodiversity, Anxiety, Self-harm, Depression,Children in care/ safeguarding/Child Protection,victims of the Manchester terrorist attack.
07723 712736 View 07723 712736
Photo of Martin Peter Robert Rigby - Martin Rigby Counselling, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Martin Rigby Counselling
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wigan WN1
Hello my name is Martin Rigby. I'm an experienced, qualified and registered person-centred counsellor working in private practice in Preston, Ashton-in-Makerfield, Hindley, Leigh and Wigan. I provide counselling face-to-face, by phone and online to people of all ages, cultures and backgrounds. I work with young people, adults, senior citizens, couples and organisations. My counselling fees are: Initial 30 minute appointment-free of charge. Individual:£35. Couples:£40. Home visits:£45- travel costs may apply. Skype/IM, Facetime, Whattsapp:£25. Consessions are available.
Hello my name is Martin Rigby. I'm an experienced, qualified and registered person-centred counsellor working in private practice in Preston, Ashton-in-Makerfield, Hindley, Leigh and Wigan. I provide counselling face-to-face, by phone and online to people of all ages, cultures and backgrounds. I work with young people, adults, senior citizens, couples and organisations. My counselling fees are: Initial 30 minute appointment-free of charge. Individual:£35. Couples:£40. Home visits:£45- travel costs may apply. Skype/IM, Facetime, Whattsapp:£25. Consessions are available.
01305 235631 View 01305 235631
Photo of Karen Veronica Hodgson, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Karen Veronica Hodgson
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Wigan WN6
I'm Karen, a UKCP Reg & EMDR Psychotherapist working online. Practicing for over 24 years with people struggling with self worth, loneliness & isolation; who struggle to connect well with others or develop intimate relationships, who people-please or have difficulties prioritising their needs; who have experienced infidelity/betrayals of trust; who have communication difficulties or struggle to set boundaries; who find balancing individual & couple expectations difficult; who are stuck in their grief, anger, anxiety or depression or who present with complex trauma & attachment wounds rooted in their childhood.
I'm Karen, a UKCP Reg & EMDR Psychotherapist working online. Practicing for over 24 years with people struggling with self worth, loneliness & isolation; who struggle to connect well with others or develop intimate relationships, who people-please or have difficulties prioritising their needs; who have experienced infidelity/betrayals of trust; who have communication difficulties or struggle to set boundaries; who find balancing individual & couple expectations difficult; who are stuck in their grief, anger, anxiety or depression or who present with complex trauma & attachment wounds rooted in their childhood.
01257 448237 View 01257 448237
Photo of Laura-Jane Waterhouse, MBACP, Counsellor
Laura-Jane Waterhouse
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Wigan WN1
I am a person centred counsellor and also have a qualification in cognitive behavioural therapy. I believe counselling is a journey of self-discovery and personal development that is a continual process both during and after therapy has taken place. Through counselling, a person will learn about themselves in a way they would never intend or maybe expect. As a counsellor I will be alongside you on your therapeutic journey and create a safe space that is respectful and non-biased to allow you to discover yourself and work through any issues that may be troubling you.
I am a person centred counsellor and also have a qualification in cognitive behavioural therapy. I believe counselling is a journey of self-discovery and personal development that is a continual process both during and after therapy has taken place. Through counselling, a person will learn about themselves in a way they would never intend or maybe expect. As a counsellor I will be alongside you on your therapeutic journey and create a safe space that is respectful and non-biased to allow you to discover yourself and work through any issues that may be troubling you.
0151 453 6703 View 0151 453 6703
Photo of Sandra Hurree, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Sandra Hurree
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Wigan WN1
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
Photo of Joanna Lum Wai - Clarity Through Reflection , DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Clarity Through Reflection
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Wigan WN1
Although not a company, Susan and Joanna are both Integrative Counselors which means they can use several means/modes of therapy that they are trained in, to support you to the maximum in achieving your goals. Supporting growth is their passion in life. Both offer face to face as well as online therapy. Joanna can offer EMDR therapy, which is used to work primarily with trauma and the effects of trauma but can be used to treat a number of different issues other than trauma, which is usually integrated within her counselling sessions.
Although not a company, Susan and Joanna are both Integrative Counselors which means they can use several means/modes of therapy that they are trained in, to support you to the maximum in achieving your goals. Supporting growth is their passion in life. Both offer face to face as well as online therapy. Joanna can offer EMDR therapy, which is used to work primarily with trauma and the effects of trauma but can be used to treat a number of different issues other than trauma, which is usually integrated within her counselling sessions.
01928 243199 View 01928 243199
Photo of David DuBois, UKCP Trainee, Counsellor
David DuBois
Counsellor, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
Wigan WN1
Welcome. You’ve taken the first step on your journey to wellness. There are many reasons why you’ve arrived here. Whatever your reason, and whatever you want to change, you’re in the right place to succeed. I am here to help. I’m David. I an expert anxiety therapist who works using Hypnotherapy, Psychotherapy, Counselling and Walk & Talk Therapy in Bolton, Wigan and online. I specialise in working with anxiety and sleep issues, including Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) and panic attacks. I also work with many other issues including self-esteem, phobias, addictions, negative habits and more.
Welcome. You’ve taken the first step on your journey to wellness. There are many reasons why you’ve arrived here. Whatever your reason, and whatever you want to change, you’re in the right place to succeed. I am here to help. I’m David. I an expert anxiety therapist who works using Hypnotherapy, Psychotherapy, Counselling and Walk & Talk Therapy in Bolton, Wigan and online. I specialise in working with anxiety and sleep issues, including Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) and panic attacks. I also work with many other issues including self-esteem, phobias, addictions, negative habits and more.
01942 559897 View 01942 559897

More Therapists Nearby

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 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; I feel 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; I feel 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

See more therapy options for Wigan

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.