Photo of Tanya Jacob - Palisades Intervention, MA, PhD, Psychologist
Palisades Intervention
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
We have over ten years of experience conducting interventions, as well as experience with addictions in our personal pasts.
Hi I'm Tanya, and we're here to help. We know how painful it is to watch a loved one struggle with addiction or compulsion. You can feel paralyzed by the fear of making the situation worse, or pushing the loved one away. In time, as addiction takes hold, it can become more and more difficult to have direct conversations, and a way out can feel impossible. Our team is here to bring you hope.
We have over ten years of experience conducting interventions, as well as experience with addictions in our personal pasts.
Hi I'm Tanya, and we're here to help. We know how painful it is to watch a loved one struggle with addiction or compulsion. You can feel paralyzed by the fear of making the situation worse, or pushing the loved one away. In time, as addiction takes hold, it can become more and more difficult to have direct conversations, and a way out can feel impossible. Our team is here to bring you hope.
(310) 422-4132 View (310) 422-4132
Photo of Courtney Hamlin - Courtney Hamlin, LMFT, Inc., MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Courtney Hamlin, LMFT, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
When dealing with substance and behavioral addictions, I use both 12-step and non-traditional approaches.
I'm here to help you. Whether this is your first time seeking counseling, or you are returning to work through a challenging time, I commend you for your willingness to try out therapy and/or continue your work. As we all know, life is not easy, and we are constantly confronted by doubts, darkness, fear, loss, and loneliness. I dedicate my time and efforts and use my skill set to collaborate with clients. I help them develop resources and tools, tap their inner strength, and get them back on the road to living a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
When dealing with substance and behavioral addictions, I use both 12-step and non-traditional approaches.
I'm here to help you. Whether this is your first time seeking counseling, or you are returning to work through a challenging time, I commend you for your willingness to try out therapy and/or continue your work. As we all know, life is not easy, and we are constantly confronted by doubts, darkness, fear, loss, and loneliness. I dedicate my time and efforts and use my skill set to collaborate with clients. I help them develop resources and tools, tap their inner strength, and get them back on the road to living a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(424) 999-1056 View (424) 999-1056
Photo of Alisa Ruby Bash, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alisa Ruby Bash
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Are you going through a challenging period in your life? Do you feel stuck in a situation you would like to change? Covid has triggered so much trauma this year. You are not alone. Do you struggle with anxiety, relationship issues, addiction, blocks, or insecurities? Do you wonder if there is more to life and how to find lasting peace and happiness, or balance in your life? I work with clients through traditional therapy, & a mind, body, spirit approach, including kundalini yoga, sound healing, and meditation. My goal is to help my clients find peace & create lasting change in all areas of their lives in my oceanfront Malibu office.
Are you going through a challenging period in your life? Do you feel stuck in a situation you would like to change? Covid has triggered so much trauma this year. You are not alone. Do you struggle with anxiety, relationship issues, addiction, blocks, or insecurities? Do you wonder if there is more to life and how to find lasting peace and happiness, or balance in your life? I work with clients through traditional therapy, & a mind, body, spirit approach, including kundalini yoga, sound healing, and meditation. My goal is to help my clients find peace & create lasting change in all areas of their lives in my oceanfront Malibu office.
(424) 570-1259 View (424) 570-1259
Photo of Jon Sorensen, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jon Sorensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Chronic trauma, PTSD, and anxiety result in depression, addiction and emotional and life paralysis - destructive experiences yet so treatable.
I work with clients struggling with severe trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety and a variety of life challenges. I have seen many learn to sleep deeply, break free of repetitive worrying thoughts, get excited about life and increase their health and energy. I feel honored that people share their stories with me and have found that no situation is ever without hope. Life can be so much better. If you choose to share with me, we will find a way together.
Chronic trauma, PTSD, and anxiety result in depression, addiction and emotional and life paralysis - destructive experiences yet so treatable.
I work with clients struggling with severe trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety and a variety of life challenges. I have seen many learn to sleep deeply, break free of repetitive worrying thoughts, get excited about life and increase their health and energy. I feel honored that people share their stories with me and have found that no situation is ever without hope. Life can be so much better. If you choose to share with me, we will find a way together.
(310) 905-8859 View (310) 905-8859
Jennifer Bembry
Verified Verified
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
In addition to in home detox services we can provide referrals to life coaches, sober living, inpatient rehab programs for addiction and depression.
We offer detox services for those struggling with drug or alcohol addiction. Our team will provide you with a highly experience detox nurse in the comfort of your home or referrals to inpatient detox programs. Receive a safe and medically monitored detox without the worry of being in a hospital environment and the disruption of other people. We have helped many people find relief from chemical dependency to alcohol, drugs, prescription drugs, methadone, heroin, suboxone, opiates, methamphetamine's, and most other substances.
In addition to in home detox services we can provide referrals to life coaches, sober living, inpatient rehab programs for addiction and depression.
We offer detox services for those struggling with drug or alcohol addiction. Our team will provide you with a highly experience detox nurse in the comfort of your home or referrals to inpatient detox programs. Receive a safe and medically monitored detox without the worry of being in a hospital environment and the disruption of other people. We have helped many people find relief from chemical dependency to alcohol, drugs, prescription drugs, methadone, heroin, suboxone, opiates, methamphetamine's, and most other substances.
(424) 372-1434 View (424) 372-1434
Photo of Noah Rothschild, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Noah Rothschild
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
I am here to help you get unstuck and reclaim your natural state of joy, well-being, purpose, and vitality. "Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate, our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure (Marianne Williamson)." In our fast-paced world, it's easy to lose touch with ourselves and our sense of well-being. This has led to a rise in depression/anxiety, substance abuse, marital/relationship issues, and other difficulties. I am skilled at alleviating these symptoms and have been successful in working with individuals, couples, children/adolescents, and families of all ages backgrounds.
I am here to help you get unstuck and reclaim your natural state of joy, well-being, purpose, and vitality. "Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate, our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure (Marianne Williamson)." In our fast-paced world, it's easy to lose touch with ourselves and our sense of well-being. This has led to a rise in depression/anxiety, substance abuse, marital/relationship issues, and other difficulties. I am skilled at alleviating these symptoms and have been successful in working with individuals, couples, children/adolescents, and families of all ages backgrounds.
(310) 801-0995 View (310) 801-0995
Photo of Charlene Mcpherson, Coach, BS, CADCIII, ICADC, YT200, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Charlene Mcpherson
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, Coach, BS, CADCIII, ICADC, YT200
Verified Verified
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
other services I can provide are Life coaching, MAT counseling and SAP ( Substance Abuse Professional) evaluations.
As an addiction counselor since 1991 I have had the opportunity to work with many clients helping them with, support to move forward in recovery, life changes, healing, healthy relationships, someone to listen, or getting their life balanced. We will work together taking steps that will guide you on your path of change and recovery. I believe everyone at some point in their life may need to seek out a counselor. Life is always changing. Situations come up in our life such as addiction, relapse, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, stress, grief and self-esteem issues.
other services I can provide are Life coaching, MAT counseling and SAP ( Substance Abuse Professional) evaluations.
As an addiction counselor since 1991 I have had the opportunity to work with many clients helping them with, support to move forward in recovery, life changes, healing, healthy relationships, someone to listen, or getting their life balanced. We will work together taking steps that will guide you on your path of change and recovery. I believe everyone at some point in their life may need to seek out a counselor. Life is always changing. Situations come up in our life such as addiction, relapse, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, stress, grief and self-esteem issues.
(424) 322-1082 View (424) 322-1082
Photo of Dr. Lyn Rowbotham, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Lyn Rowbotham
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
My areas of specialties include: Addiction and recovery, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma; PTSD: complex, single incident and developmental, Crisis management, Effective communication, Parenting, and Grief and loss.
Each one of us deserves a fulfilling life and is capable of personal growth. I’m here to give you the tools, techniques, and the support you need to recognize and break old patterns, to motivate and facilitate sustainable change and to help you thrive in all relationships, including the one with yourself. There is always hope, no matter what you may be faced with.
My areas of specialties include: Addiction and recovery, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma; PTSD: complex, single incident and developmental, Crisis management, Effective communication, Parenting, and Grief and loss.
Each one of us deserves a fulfilling life and is capable of personal growth. I’m here to give you the tools, techniques, and the support you need to recognize and break old patterns, to motivate and facilitate sustainable change and to help you thrive in all relationships, including the one with yourself. There is always hope, no matter what you may be faced with.
(310) 564-2135 View (310) 564-2135
Photo of Daniel Knox, CADC I, SUDCC, MBA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Daniel Knox
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC I, SUDCC, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Addictive tendencies, substance abuse, and overindulgence, are often rooted in trauma. That’s one of those scary, stigmatized words that’s easy to dismiss. “My experiences weren’t traumatic, it’s not like I had it as bad as some people”. It’s also easy to dismiss the effects. “I’m not traumatized, I’m just like this." In its wake are depression, anxiety, and the need for “something more.” You aren’t alone. There are a lot of us out here who have grasped on to things that felt like they could help. Our personal collections of coping mechanisms can be messy, and sometimes they just don’t work anymore.
Addictive tendencies, substance abuse, and overindulgence, are often rooted in trauma. That’s one of those scary, stigmatized words that’s easy to dismiss. “My experiences weren’t traumatic, it’s not like I had it as bad as some people”. It’s also easy to dismiss the effects. “I’m not traumatized, I’m just like this." In its wake are depression, anxiety, and the need for “something more.” You aren’t alone. There are a lot of us out here who have grasped on to things that felt like they could help. Our personal collections of coping mechanisms can be messy, and sometimes they just don’t work anymore.
(310) 890-6558 View (310) 890-6558
Photo of Barbara Foley, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barbara Foley
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
If you're anxious, depressed, have relationship problems, sexual problems, substance dependency, work problems, family problems, parenting problems, etc., and want to learn how to work through life's issues toward a more alive and purposeful existence, try Integrative Body Psychotherapy. If you want to go beyond everyday problems, feel joy, personal fulfillment, and a profound experience of true self in the world, try this holistic work that combines the physical and mental with the soul. Through breathing and understanding, my clients learn how to manage their issues, find access to their core and often their true purpose in life.
If you're anxious, depressed, have relationship problems, sexual problems, substance dependency, work problems, family problems, parenting problems, etc., and want to learn how to work through life's issues toward a more alive and purposeful existence, try Integrative Body Psychotherapy. If you want to go beyond everyday problems, feel joy, personal fulfillment, and a profound experience of true self in the world, try this holistic work that combines the physical and mental with the soul. Through breathing and understanding, my clients learn how to manage their issues, find access to their core and often their true purpose in life.
(310) 395-3739 View (310) 395-3739
Photo of Dr. Evan Fisher, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Evan Fisher
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Waitlist for new clients
* Addiction issues.
I have spent years studying the ins and outs of the human psyche and the best methods for helping a suffering person discover a measure peace--from cognitive behavior techniques to ancient Eastern methodologies to mindfulness based practices, depth psychology, and object relations theory. If you are someone who is experiencing existential upset, is going through a serious life change, is struggling with difficult feelings of sadness, anxiety, or low-self-esteem, or simply wish to find a measure of wholeness that has eluded you, don't hesitate to contact me. More information can be found at my website: EvanFisherTherapy.com.
* Addiction issues.
I have spent years studying the ins and outs of the human psyche and the best methods for helping a suffering person discover a measure peace--from cognitive behavior techniques to ancient Eastern methodologies to mindfulness based practices, depth psychology, and object relations theory. If you are someone who is experiencing existential upset, is going through a serious life change, is struggling with difficult feelings of sadness, anxiety, or low-self-esteem, or simply wish to find a measure of wholeness that has eluded you, don't hesitate to contact me. More information can be found at my website: EvanFisherTherapy.com.
(310) 736-4075 View (310) 736-4075
Photo of Linda Haack, PhD, Psychologist
Linda Haack
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
I am also specialized to treat issues of addiction & codependcy that are interfering in life's pleasures and relationships.
PROBLEMS?? Let's talk SOULUTIONS!! My private practice offers both an in office setting, West Los Angeles area, or the convenience of Teletherapy sessions. The flexibility of Teletherapy sessions saves on your drive time & eliminates uncomfortable "psych" office waiting rooms. Teens, adults, couples & families have an opportunity to recieve the help they need in a safe comfortable setting at a time best for you! I am interested in assisting you with your conflicts, creating a healthier happier lifestyle for yourself and your relationships. Feel free to call me 858-451-0771 to get you the help you need.
I am also specialized to treat issues of addiction & codependcy that are interfering in life's pleasures and relationships.
PROBLEMS?? Let's talk SOULUTIONS!! My private practice offers both an in office setting, West Los Angeles area, or the convenience of Teletherapy sessions. The flexibility of Teletherapy sessions saves on your drive time & eliminates uncomfortable "psych" office waiting rooms. Teens, adults, couples & families have an opportunity to recieve the help they need in a safe comfortable setting at a time best for you! I am interested in assisting you with your conflicts, creating a healthier happier lifestyle for yourself and your relationships. Feel free to call me 858-451-0771 to get you the help you need.
(858) 451-0771 View (858) 451-0771
Photo of Tanya Hope Peters, PhD, Psychologist
Tanya Hope Peters
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
I appreciate your interest in psychotherapy and commend your effort in finding a therapist. It is an important step to take towards feeling better. I am a clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, and families. I have worked with people who have experienced trauma, depression, eating disorders, addiction, anxiety, loss, and life transitions. I work collaboratively with my clients, and am supportive and dedicated to their increased well being. My approach to therapy is to be genuine, open and honest, supportive, and curious.
I appreciate your interest in psychotherapy and commend your effort in finding a therapist. It is an important step to take towards feeling better. I am a clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, and families. I have worked with people who have experienced trauma, depression, eating disorders, addiction, anxiety, loss, and life transitions. I work collaboratively with my clients, and am supportive and dedicated to their increased well being. My approach to therapy is to be genuine, open and honest, supportive, and curious.
(424) 396-2833 View (424) 396-2833
Photo of Dr. Tanya Hope Peters, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Tanya Hope Peters
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
I appreciate your interest in psychotherapy and commend your effort in finding a therapist. It is an important step to take towards feeling better. I am a clinical psychologist with several years of experience working with adolescents, adults, and families. I have worked with people who have experienced trauma, depression, eating disorders, addiction, anxiety, loss, and life transitions. I work collaboratively with my clients, and am supportive and dedicated to their increased well being. My approach to therapy is to be genuine, open and honest, supportive, and curious.
I appreciate your interest in psychotherapy and commend your effort in finding a therapist. It is an important step to take towards feeling better. I am a clinical psychologist with several years of experience working with adolescents, adults, and families. I have worked with people who have experienced trauma, depression, eating disorders, addiction, anxiety, loss, and life transitions. I work collaboratively with my clients, and am supportive and dedicated to their increased well being. My approach to therapy is to be genuine, open and honest, supportive, and curious.
(310) 997-2527 View (310) 997-2527
Photo of Dr. Suzanne Pelka, LMFT, CSAT, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Suzanne Pelka
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
In need of sex therapy? Lack of desire? A sex-starved marriage? Sex/porn addiction? Just not on the same page as your partner? As a Sexuality Specialist and CSAT, I have successfully treated clients struggling with many different sexual problems (Men: erectile dysfunction, rapid/premature/delayed ejaculation. Women: low desire, painful intercourse, vaginismus/vulvadynia. Either: sexual inexperience, sexual anorexia, childhood sexual traumas including incest). I often use EMDR to resolve underlying traumas. I have researched and taught at UCLA, SMC, The University of Chicago, DePaul and have been a sexuality expert on NBC, ABC and KCAL 9 news.
In need of sex therapy? Lack of desire? A sex-starved marriage? Sex/porn addiction? Just not on the same page as your partner? As a Sexuality Specialist and CSAT, I have successfully treated clients struggling with many different sexual problems (Men: erectile dysfunction, rapid/premature/delayed ejaculation. Women: low desire, painful intercourse, vaginismus/vulvadynia. Either: sexual inexperience, sexual anorexia, childhood sexual traumas including incest). I often use EMDR to resolve underlying traumas. I have researched and taught at UCLA, SMC, The University of Chicago, DePaul and have been a sexuality expert on NBC, ABC and KCAL 9 news.
(310) 601-6882 View (310) 601-6882
Photo of Rachel Fintzy Woods, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Fintzy Woods
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
During my 18 years conducting clinical research at UCLA, I worked with mind/body medicine, ADHD, substance abuse, depression, and PTSD.
I help people who struggle with compulsive, emotional, or binge eating or chronic dieting to find peace with their body, weight, food, and themselves. Preoccupation with not feeling "good enough" and perfectionism, trauma, and anxiety about life transitions and relationships can often be factors in disordered eating and body image. Getting in touch with your inner wisdom, your body's cues, and your needs are part of the journey to healing on an emotional, physical, and spiritual level.
During my 18 years conducting clinical research at UCLA, I worked with mind/body medicine, ADHD, substance abuse, depression, and PTSD.
I help people who struggle with compulsive, emotional, or binge eating or chronic dieting to find peace with their body, weight, food, and themselves. Preoccupation with not feeling "good enough" and perfectionism, trauma, and anxiety about life transitions and relationships can often be factors in disordered eating and body image. Getting in touch with your inner wisdom, your body's cues, and your needs are part of the journey to healing on an emotional, physical, and spiritual level.
(310) 365-1632 View (310) 365-1632
Photo of Jordanne Stacy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jordanne Stacy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, panic attacks, addiction, relationship struggles, or generally missing something in life? Feeling stuck in an endless cycle of procrastination, fears about the uncertainty of the future, or guilt, shame and resentments from the past? If so, you are not alone! Many people spend their entire lives in this mental and emotional agony and that doesn't have to be you! Overcoming these challenges can be difficult on your own, working with a licensed professional may save you years of learning by trial and error. You can overcome and balance the emotional and behavioral impediments in your life.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, panic attacks, addiction, relationship struggles, or generally missing something in life? Feeling stuck in an endless cycle of procrastination, fears about the uncertainty of the future, or guilt, shame and resentments from the past? If so, you are not alone! Many people spend their entire lives in this mental and emotional agony and that doesn't have to be you! Overcoming these challenges can be difficult on your own, working with a licensed professional may save you years of learning by trial and error. You can overcome and balance the emotional and behavioral impediments in your life.
(818) 650-3552 View (818) 650-3552
Photo of Rincy Mathew, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rincy Mathew
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
I work with adults, couples, and late teens who struggle with addiction, self esteem, co-dependency, and PTSD.
I believe psychotherapy to be sacred work that can be immensely healing and transformative. But it requires a genuine commitment to confront uncomfortable feelings and beliefs. In my experience, most psychic pain stems from a lack of connection to our authentic selves causing immense suffering that manifests into self-defeating thoughts and addictions, loss of purpose and meaning, and relational trauma. My work with clients is to unravel these self-limiting unconscious processes to gain better insight and live more intentionally with greater purpose and freedom.
I work with adults, couples, and late teens who struggle with addiction, self esteem, co-dependency, and PTSD.
I believe psychotherapy to be sacred work that can be immensely healing and transformative. But it requires a genuine commitment to confront uncomfortable feelings and beliefs. In my experience, most psychic pain stems from a lack of connection to our authentic selves causing immense suffering that manifests into self-defeating thoughts and addictions, loss of purpose and meaning, and relational trauma. My work with clients is to unravel these self-limiting unconscious processes to gain better insight and live more intentionally with greater purpose and freedom.
(310) 526-3854 View (310) 526-3854
Photo of Laure Weber, Psy,  D, Psychologist
Laure Weber
Psychologist, Psy, D
Verified Verified
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Have you often thought about "going to therapy" but can't quite dial a therapist's number? It can be scary to make that first call but also uplifting and perhaps it will give you a sense of hope.
Have you often thought about "going to therapy" but can't quite dial a therapist's number? It can be scary to make that first call but also uplifting and perhaps it will give you a sense of hope.
(424) 277-3465 View (424) 277-3465
Photo of Jeff Eamer, MA, LMFT, CRT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeff Eamer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CRT
Verified Verified
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Choosing a therapist is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. It is truly a leap of faith. So in our first consultation phone call I will spend as much time as you need to share you story, answer any questions you may have of the process, of me, and the nature of the journey we will take together.
Choosing a therapist is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. It is truly a leap of faith. So in our first consultation phone call I will spend as much time as you need to share you story, answer any questions you may have of the process, of me, and the nature of the journey we will take together.
(424) 543-3354 View (424) 543-3354
1

See more therapy options for Pacific Palisades

Addiction Therapists

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.