Addiction Therapists in Essex, CT

Photo of Donna D Gundy, LMFT, MEd, Marriage & Family Therapist
Donna D Gundy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MEd
Verified Verified
Essex, CT 06426  (Online Only)
If your relationship is in trouble, I am here to help. You may be experiencing difficulty with communication, intimacy, fidelity, substance abuse, depression and anxiety. I enjoy helping couples get back on track and regain lost feelings of connection and trust. If you are an individual at a crossroads in life, I can help with therapeutic sessions that examine your present difficulties and explore solutions for improvement in satisfaction and well-being. AM
If your relationship is in trouble, I am here to help. You may be experiencing difficulty with communication, intimacy, fidelity, substance abuse, depression and anxiety. I enjoy helping couples get back on track and regain lost feelings of connection and trust. If you are an individual at a crossroads in life, I can help with therapeutic sessions that examine your present difficulties and explore solutions for improvement in satisfaction and well-being. AM
(860) 813-2353 x522 View (860) 813-2353 x522
Photo of David Kenefick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Kenefick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Essex, CT 06426
Some common areas I work with include anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, life transitions, and relationship issues (couples, parent/child).
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I offer a therapeutic place for people interested in exploring how the challenges or “symptoms” you are experiencing are preventing you from being your best self. My foundational training as a Clinical Social Worker has been enhanced with advanced trauma training including EMDR, relational / attachment work as a Circle of Security Parent Facilitator, Buddhist psychology and mindfulness. Several modalities inform my practice including somatic healing, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and a relational approach leading to a greater sense of feeling grounded and whole.
Some common areas I work with include anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, life transitions, and relationship issues (couples, parent/child).
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I offer a therapeutic place for people interested in exploring how the challenges or “symptoms” you are experiencing are preventing you from being your best self. My foundational training as a Clinical Social Worker has been enhanced with advanced trauma training including EMDR, relational / attachment work as a Circle of Security Parent Facilitator, Buddhist psychology and mindfulness. Several modalities inform my practice including somatic healing, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and a relational approach leading to a greater sense of feeling grounded and whole.
(860) 846-4999 View (860) 846-4999
Photo of Nancy Diane Varga, LCSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Diane Varga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Essex, CT 06426
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical social worker. I specialize in helping clients who are dealing with issues related to an oncology diagnosis, palliative care caregivers and or/chronic illness and grief and loss. I also have expertise in chemical dependence treatment and am a licensed alcohol and drug counselor.
I am a licensed clinical social worker. I specialize in helping clients who are dealing with issues related to an oncology diagnosis, palliative care caregivers and or/chronic illness and grief and loss. I also have expertise in chemical dependence treatment and am a licensed alcohol and drug counselor.
(860) 698-0977 View (860) 698-0977
Photo of Michelle A. Kenefick, LICSW, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle A. Kenefick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Essex, CT 06426
My journey as a Clinical Social Worker has encompassed 30+ years of practice. I have had the privilege to work with children and families as well as with adults in a variety of different settings. I have a strong background in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and expertise working with trauma survivors and with those who have experienced vicarious traumatization. My approach can best be described as integrative and holistic. This means that I rely upon various psycho-therapeutic methods and evidence-based models that are combined to create a personalized approach to our work together.
My journey as a Clinical Social Worker has encompassed 30+ years of practice. I have had the privilege to work with children and families as well as with adults in a variety of different settings. I have a strong background in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and expertise working with trauma survivors and with those who have experienced vicarious traumatization. My approach can best be described as integrative and holistic. This means that I rely upon various psycho-therapeutic methods and evidence-based models that are combined to create a personalized approach to our work together.
(860) 560-8861 View (860) 560-8861
Photo of Dr. Alessandra Bryant, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Alessandra Bryant
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Essex, CT 06426
Do you feel under appreciated? Do you wish he could break the cycle of negative behavior? Does she constantly keep criticizing? Do you experience anxiety and distrust? Lack of intimacy and sexual desire? I am a marriage and family therapist with specialized training and experience in couple therapy. Nothing you say will surprise or shock me. I am easy to talk to and skilled at creating tools to help couples maintain healthy relationships.   Together, We repair your relationship by introducing new communication methods and understanding that promote empathy and flexibility.
Do you feel under appreciated? Do you wish he could break the cycle of negative behavior? Does she constantly keep criticizing? Do you experience anxiety and distrust? Lack of intimacy and sexual desire? I am a marriage and family therapist with specialized training and experience in couple therapy. Nothing you say will surprise or shock me. I am easy to talk to and skilled at creating tools to help couples maintain healthy relationships.   Together, We repair your relationship by introducing new communication methods and understanding that promote empathy and flexibility.
(475) 231-3455 View (475) 231-3455
Photo of Al Mayer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Al Mayer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Essex, CT 06426  (Online Only)
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, fatigued? Maybe feeling stuck? Perhaps you are experiencing problems in relationships with family, or coworkers. Perhaps feeling overwhelmed with life in general. You might be thinking of getting help but you're experiencing problems in asking for or reaching out for help. Well, you are not alone because many people find it hard to reach out for help. My name is Al Mayer. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Connecticut. I have over 30 years experience in helping clients to make choices to empower them to move forward and reach whatever their true goal is.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, fatigued? Maybe feeling stuck? Perhaps you are experiencing problems in relationships with family, or coworkers. Perhaps feeling overwhelmed with life in general. You might be thinking of getting help but you're experiencing problems in asking for or reaching out for help. Well, you are not alone because many people find it hard to reach out for help. My name is Al Mayer. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Connecticut. I have over 30 years experience in helping clients to make choices to empower them to move forward and reach whatever their true goal is.
(475) 265-6939 View (475) 265-6939
Photo of Jason Naylor, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jason Naylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Essex, CT 06426  (Online Only)
Imagine you're at a crossroads in life, seeking guidance to navigate the ups and downs. If you're browsing through Psychology Today for a therapist, you're likely facing one of those challenging times. But here's the silver lining: overcoming these struggles can make you even stronger. Everyone holds the power to reshape their narrative; they need a bit of support along the way. How do I fit into this journey? Well, my approach revolves around collaboration, aiming to unearth the resilience within you and
Imagine you're at a crossroads in life, seeking guidance to navigate the ups and downs. If you're browsing through Psychology Today for a therapist, you're likely facing one of those challenging times. But here's the silver lining: overcoming these struggles can make you even stronger. Everyone holds the power to reshape their narrative; they need a bit of support along the way. How do I fit into this journey? Well, my approach revolves around collaboration, aiming to unearth the resilience within you and
(860) 421-1395 View (860) 421-1395

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Scott Tordoff, MS, LMFT, LADC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Scott Tordoff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
Centerbrook, CT 06409
I specialize in working through anxiety, addiction, depression, life transitions, conflict, first responders and trauma.
I am a compassionate, empathetic, and solution-focused professional, who believes everyone can achieve their goals. I have over 10 years experience working with individuals, couples, and families in diverse settings from substance use facilities to the Department of Correction as well as a Youth and Family Services, and a program director for an eating disorder facility. I enjoy working with adults and adolescents and use evidence-based therapeutic approaches to connect clients with hope and belief in themselves.
I specialize in working through anxiety, addiction, depression, life transitions, conflict, first responders and trauma.
I am a compassionate, empathetic, and solution-focused professional, who believes everyone can achieve their goals. I have over 10 years experience working with individuals, couples, and families in diverse settings from substance use facilities to the Department of Correction as well as a Youth and Family Services, and a program director for an eating disorder facility. I enjoy working with adults and adolescents and use evidence-based therapeutic approaches to connect clients with hope and belief in themselves.
(860) 530-6532 View (860) 530-6532
Photo of Neil Becker, LCSW, JD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Neil Becker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, JD
Verified Verified
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
I am passionate about working with college students and adults suffering from depression, anxiety, and/or addiction. In addition to targeting negative thoughts (CBT), I use an acceptance-based approach (ACT) by encouraging clients to accept current thoughts patterns. Additionally, I use EMDR to eliminate the negative impact of trauma including those resulting in PTSD.
I am passionate about working with college students and adults suffering from depression, anxiety, and/or addiction. In addition to targeting negative thoughts (CBT), I use an acceptance-based approach (ACT) by encouraging clients to accept current thoughts patterns. Additionally, I use EMDR to eliminate the negative impact of trauma including those resulting in PTSD.
(203) 350-0592 View (203) 350-0592
Photo of Jessica G. Miller, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica G. Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clinton, CT 06413
Jessica Miller is independently licensed in Connecticut as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and in New York as a Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). She has dedicated her career to treating people with mental health issues, substance abuse and dual diagnoses. She received her Bachelor of Science degree, Magna Cum Laude, from Long Island University, C. W. Post Campus where she also received her Master of Science degree, Magna Cum Laude in Mental Health Counseling.
Jessica Miller is independently licensed in Connecticut as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and in New York as a Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). She has dedicated her career to treating people with mental health issues, substance abuse and dual diagnoses. She received her Bachelor of Science degree, Magna Cum Laude, from Long Island University, C. W. Post Campus where she also received her Master of Science degree, Magna Cum Laude in Mental Health Counseling.
(203) 896-8976 View (203) 896-8976
Photo of Joanna Crowell, NCC, LPC, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joanna Crowell
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, LADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westbrook, CT 06498
With over 15 years of experience, I specialize in treating addiction, trauma and anxiety.
Experiences from our past or present have a way of affecting us in more manners than we can imagine. Perhaps you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or no longer yourself. Maybe you're drinking too much just to cope. You know you need real solutions to your problems, but you've been unsure of where to begin. When life feels too hard to manage alone, the decision to ask for help requires strength, courage, and a teammate. Therapy can help.
With over 15 years of experience, I specialize in treating addiction, trauma and anxiety.
Experiences from our past or present have a way of affecting us in more manners than we can imagine. Perhaps you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or no longer yourself. Maybe you're drinking too much just to cope. You know you need real solutions to your problems, but you've been unsure of where to begin. When life feels too hard to manage alone, the decision to ask for help requires strength, courage, and a teammate. Therapy can help.
(860) 615-4617 View (860) 615-4617
Photo of Tony Augustine, MA, MEd, LADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Tony Augustine
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, MEd, LADC
Verified Verified
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
I assist family members coping with the devastating effects of the addiction of a loved one (co-dependence).
Chances are you or a family member is affected by addiction. It is a heartbreaking disease but there is A WAY OUT! I use a person-centered, individual, holistic approach to addiction treatment and education for individuals and family members. I employ clinically proven strategies to recovery. I successfully treated addicted clients and supported and educated family members for over twenty years. I would be honored to walk with you on your road to a newly found life! I treat men and women 17 years and older. Feel free to call. I'm happy to speak with you.
I assist family members coping with the devastating effects of the addiction of a loved one (co-dependence).
Chances are you or a family member is affected by addiction. It is a heartbreaking disease but there is A WAY OUT! I use a person-centered, individual, holistic approach to addiction treatment and education for individuals and family members. I employ clinically proven strategies to recovery. I successfully treated addicted clients and supported and educated family members for over twenty years. I would be honored to walk with you on your road to a newly found life! I treat men and women 17 years and older. Feel free to call. I'm happy to speak with you.
(860) 322-5231 View (860) 322-5231
Photo of Catherine M Finkeldey, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Catherine M Finkeldey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Clinton, CT 06413
My experience includes treatment of mental disorders, trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, Domestic Violence, anxiety/depression, and substance abuse.
My psychotherapy practice offers a compassionate and supportive environment in which clients can address their concerns and grow in positive directions.I believe in the inherent health of each person and focus on building individual strengths. I work with individuals, couples, families and groups in recognizing and changing the patterns of behavior that negatively affect their lives and/or interferes with their goals. My goal is to empower you to achieve your goals while learning how to use your strengths along the way.
My experience includes treatment of mental disorders, trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, Domestic Violence, anxiety/depression, and substance abuse.
My psychotherapy practice offers a compassionate and supportive environment in which clients can address their concerns and grow in positive directions.I believe in the inherent health of each person and focus on building individual strengths. I work with individuals, couples, families and groups in recognizing and changing the patterns of behavior that negatively affect their lives and/or interferes with their goals. My goal is to empower you to achieve your goals while learning how to use your strengths along the way.
(860) 920-5569 View (860) 920-5569
Photo of Sarah Joanne Faucher - Sarah Faucher, LPC. LLC., MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Faucher, LPC. LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
I have almost 15 years of experience working with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, substance abuse (opioid dependence and replacement therapies), relationships and stress management.
CURRENTLY NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS I am here to provide the support and compassion needed to begin your journey of healing from mental health, substance abuse and relationship issues. I work with adolescents, adults, couples and families who are having difficulty coping alone. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment to explore your thoughts and feelings, to increase your understanding of self and others and to gain the skills needed to cope.
I have almost 15 years of experience working with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, substance abuse (opioid dependence and replacement therapies), relationships and stress management.
CURRENTLY NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS I am here to provide the support and compassion needed to begin your journey of healing from mental health, substance abuse and relationship issues. I work with adolescents, adults, couples and families who are having difficulty coping alone. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment to explore your thoughts and feelings, to increase your understanding of self and others and to gain the skills needed to cope.
(860) 406-7071 View (860) 406-7071
Photo of Jennifer Urbine, MA, NCC, CBIS, Counselor
Jennifer Urbine
Counselor, MA, NCC, CBIS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
My primary purpose as a counselor is to assist you on your road to recovery and build a strong foundation for you to live free from substance abuse and addiction.
I am a Certified Advanced Counselor by the NBCC and I am passionate about my work with those affected by alcoholism and addiction. Substance Abuse and Mental Health problems are major roadblocks in a person's life. These issues are nothing to be ashamed of and can be overcome with a proper, specialized treatment plan. I help patients struggling with substance abuse and co-occurring disorders through many different treatment modalities that are specified to each individual. Every person is unique in their personality and life circumstances, therefore, their treatment approach will be suitable to fit their unique situation.
My primary purpose as a counselor is to assist you on your road to recovery and build a strong foundation for you to live free from substance abuse and addiction.
I am a Certified Advanced Counselor by the NBCC and I am passionate about my work with those affected by alcoholism and addiction. Substance Abuse and Mental Health problems are major roadblocks in a person's life. These issues are nothing to be ashamed of and can be overcome with a proper, specialized treatment plan. I help patients struggling with substance abuse and co-occurring disorders through many different treatment modalities that are specified to each individual. Every person is unique in their personality and life circumstances, therefore, their treatment approach will be suitable to fit their unique situation.
(267) 641-6345 View (267) 641-6345
Photo of Kathleen Watanabe, LCSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Watanabe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
TELETHERAPY AVAILABLE - AS A LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER I STRIVE TO PROVIDE A CONFIDENTIAL AND SAFE ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH INDIVIDUALS ARE FREE TO GROW AT THEIR OWN PACE. I WORK WITH INDIVIDUALS AND COUPLES TO RESOLVE RELATIONSHIP PROBLEMS, REDUCE ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION AND ADDRESS TRAUMA. I HAVE A SUB SPECIALTY OF TREATING SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS AND THE FAMILIES THAT ARE AFFECTED.
TELETHERAPY AVAILABLE - AS A LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER I STRIVE TO PROVIDE A CONFIDENTIAL AND SAFE ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH INDIVIDUALS ARE FREE TO GROW AT THEIR OWN PACE. I WORK WITH INDIVIDUALS AND COUPLES TO RESOLVE RELATIONSHIP PROBLEMS, REDUCE ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION AND ADDRESS TRAUMA. I HAVE A SUB SPECIALTY OF TREATING SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS AND THE FAMILIES THAT ARE AFFECTED.
(860) 317-2815 View (860) 317-2815
Photo of Barbara E August, MA-LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barbara E August
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA-LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, CT 06443  (Online Only)
Barbara is a licensed LPC in Ct. with over 20 years of counseling experience in a variety of settings. She grew up in the suburbs of New York City on Long Island and received her masters from Colorado University at Denver in 1988. Contact Barbara at 203 627-0026 for a free consultation. We will focus on accepting where you are at this time and collaborate on a solution focused approach to the challenges you are facing. Barbara has vast experience with substance use disorders including years of work at detox and treatment centers, specializing in Medically Assisted Treatment for opiate addiction with co-occurring mental health.
Barbara is a licensed LPC in Ct. with over 20 years of counseling experience in a variety of settings. She grew up in the suburbs of New York City on Long Island and received her masters from Colorado University at Denver in 1988. Contact Barbara at 203 627-0026 for a free consultation. We will focus on accepting where you are at this time and collaborate on a solution focused approach to the challenges you are facing. Barbara has vast experience with substance use disorders including years of work at detox and treatment centers, specializing in Medically Assisted Treatment for opiate addiction with co-occurring mental health.
(860) 854-3406 View (860) 854-3406
Photo of Rachel Skelton, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Skelton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
Looking for a therapist can be scary and intimidating so congratulations on taking the first step in healing! Life, especially now more than ever, can be exhausting, challenging and hard. You are taking the first and most important step into finding the healthiest version of you. My experience is with adults and teens who have experienced various life stressors including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, addiction, alcohol use, relationship and communication related issues, and family conflict. As a therapist, I offer a collaborative approach with my clients.
Looking for a therapist can be scary and intimidating so congratulations on taking the first step in healing! Life, especially now more than ever, can be exhausting, challenging and hard. You are taking the first and most important step into finding the healthiest version of you. My experience is with adults and teens who have experienced various life stressors including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, addiction, alcohol use, relationship and communication related issues, and family conflict. As a therapist, I offer a collaborative approach with my clients.
(860) 851-3898 View (860) 851-3898
Photo of Dr. Michael Francis Hinkley, PhD, LMSW, LADC, STL, MA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Dr. Michael Francis Hinkley
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, LMSW, LADC, STL, MA
Verified Verified
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
I have particular expertiese in helping you find the motivation to identify the roots of your addiction, setting goals for change and sticking to them.
Addiction compromises a person causing pain. You may be finding it hard to make the changes required to address a substance addiction. You may experience family discord. You may be isolating from others, experiencing a poor diet or one bad decision after another, this is all common in addiction. Your unique story of Alcoholism or Drug Addiction happened in stages, a slippery slope, that only gets worse. But there's good news, you are taking the time to consider getting help now, maybe again, and that's where your recovery starts. Working with you and possibly your family, you will see change, starting now!
I have particular expertiese in helping you find the motivation to identify the roots of your addiction, setting goals for change and sticking to them.
Addiction compromises a person causing pain. You may be finding it hard to make the changes required to address a substance addiction. You may experience family discord. You may be isolating from others, experiencing a poor diet or one bad decision after another, this is all common in addiction. Your unique story of Alcoholism or Drug Addiction happened in stages, a slippery slope, that only gets worse. But there's good news, you are taking the time to consider getting help now, maybe again, and that's where your recovery starts. Working with you and possibly your family, you will see change, starting now!
(203) 871-3296 View (203) 871-3296
Photo of Amy LaMarre, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy LaMarre
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Haddam, CT 06438
Currently FULL! We are all constantly changing. We may have already accomplished goals in our lives, yet are at a crossroads again. This time, we may wish to seek help, whether it’s to develop a goal, figure out what may be a little “off” in our life or maybe some direction with some heavier challenges. I specifically have experience working with substance use disorders, infant mental health and parent-child attachment. I've been trained in Infant Mental Health, Risking Connection, Seeking Safety as well as Circle of Security, but have worked with many individuals and families with varying reasons that brought them to therapy.
Currently FULL! We are all constantly changing. We may have already accomplished goals in our lives, yet are at a crossroads again. This time, we may wish to seek help, whether it’s to develop a goal, figure out what may be a little “off” in our life or maybe some direction with some heavier challenges. I specifically have experience working with substance use disorders, infant mental health and parent-child attachment. I've been trained in Infant Mental Health, Risking Connection, Seeking Safety as well as Circle of Security, but have worked with many individuals and families with varying reasons that brought them to therapy.
(860) 485-7917 View (860) 485-7917
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.