Addiction Therapists in Palatine, IL

Photo of Krissy Bergles, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Krissy Bergles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60074
I have extensive experience working with adolescents, young adults, families, school related topics (IEP, 504), and individuals dealing with substance abuse issues.
Making the decision to take charge of your own path and seek change is a courageous effort. Most individuals find it hard to reach out and ask for help, which is why finding a safe and comfortable environment is an important part of the therapeutic process. In my therapy practice, I believe each client has their own needs and perspectives. I provide a counseling experience that allows individuals the chance to identify the areas they would like to address and foster the opportunity to grow, change and adjust to the transitions in their lives.
I have extensive experience working with adolescents, young adults, families, school related topics (IEP, 504), and individuals dealing with substance abuse issues.
Making the decision to take charge of your own path and seek change is a courageous effort. Most individuals find it hard to reach out and ask for help, which is why finding a safe and comfortable environment is an important part of the therapeutic process. In my therapy practice, I believe each client has their own needs and perspectives. I provide a counseling experience that allows individuals the chance to identify the areas they would like to address and foster the opportunity to grow, change and adjust to the transitions in their lives.
(847) 348-8874 View (847) 348-8874
Photo of Mark DeDonato, LCSW, ACSW, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mark DeDonato
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067
I specialize in treating adolescents and adults experiencing: substance abuse, eating disorders, sex addiction, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and other issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a member of the Academy of Certified Social Workers, and a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist. I graduated from the School of Social Service Administration at the University of Chicago, and earned a Master of Arts in Social Service Administration with a concentration in clinical social work and school social work Type 73 certification.
I specialize in treating adolescents and adults experiencing: substance abuse, eating disorders, sex addiction, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and other issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a member of the Academy of Certified Social Workers, and a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist. I graduated from the School of Social Service Administration at the University of Chicago, and earned a Master of Arts in Social Service Administration with a concentration in clinical social work and school social work Type 73 certification.
(847) 737-1249 View (847) 737-1249
Photo of Lu Gregory, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lu Gregory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60074
Lu is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor who works with children, adolescents, adults and their families. She has experience working with individuals with Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Self-Injury and Substance Abuse. Lu utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to assist patients in achieving positive changes in mood, thought process and their behavior.
Lu is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor who works with children, adolescents, adults and their families. She has experience working with individuals with Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Self-Injury and Substance Abuse. Lu utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to assist patients in achieving positive changes in mood, thought process and their behavior.
(847) 607-6217 View (847) 607-6217
Photo of Denise Casey, PsyD, CADC, NBCCHT, Psychologist
Denise Casey
Psychologist, PsyD, CADC, NBCCHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067
Casey has traveled with people from all walks of life to deal with interventions, addiction recovery, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, childhood trauma, loss & grief, sexual abuse, women's issues and codependency.
HOPE, HELP, HEALING. Dr. Casey would best describe her intentions for her clients in one word "Transformation". As founder of Barrington Behavioral Health & Wellness, she has created a "home" for people where growth and healing are possible. Her own journey has taught her as much as the diplomas on her wall and the credentials behind her name. She was on staff at Lutheran General Hospital and taught at Northeastern IL University. She is trained as a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, a Certified Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counselor, is versed in Hypnotherapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She is also an Employee Assistance Provider.
Casey has traveled with people from all walks of life to deal with interventions, addiction recovery, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, childhood trauma, loss & grief, sexual abuse, women's issues and codependency.
HOPE, HELP, HEALING. Dr. Casey would best describe her intentions for her clients in one word "Transformation". As founder of Barrington Behavioral Health & Wellness, she has created a "home" for people where growth and healing are possible. Her own journey has taught her as much as the diplomas on her wall and the credentials behind her name. She was on staff at Lutheran General Hospital and taught at Northeastern IL University. She is trained as a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, a Certified Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counselor, is versed in Hypnotherapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She is also an Employee Assistance Provider.
(888) 265-6418 View (888) 265-6418
Photo of Barrington Behavioral Health And Wellness - Barrington Behavioral Health & Wellness, PsyD, LCSW, LCPC, CADC, NBCCHT, Psychologist
Barrington Behavioral Health & Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, LCPC, CADC, NBCCHT
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60074
We offer counseling services for Addiction Recovery (interventions, codependency, trauma, ACOA, childhood abuse, 12 step support).
We welcome you online or in person. We embrace the concept of body, mind & spirit and believe in treating the whole person. We believe in resilience, transformation and personal growth. Each clinician practices in different areas including; mood disorders, addiction recovery, services to senior citizens, veterans, children and adolescents, couples, womens issues, trauma, divorce recovery, mood disorders, life transitions, professional development or supervision. We have hours 7 days a week both in person and via telehealth. Insurance Friendly.
We offer counseling services for Addiction Recovery (interventions, codependency, trauma, ACOA, childhood abuse, 12 step support).
We welcome you online or in person. We embrace the concept of body, mind & spirit and believe in treating the whole person. We believe in resilience, transformation and personal growth. Each clinician practices in different areas including; mood disorders, addiction recovery, services to senior citizens, veterans, children and adolescents, couples, womens issues, trauma, divorce recovery, mood disorders, life transitions, professional development or supervision. We have hours 7 days a week both in person and via telehealth. Insurance Friendly.
(877) 968-2745 View (877) 968-2745
Photo of Aaron McMahon, MDiv, LCPC, Counselor
Aaron McMahon
Counselor, MDiv, LCPC
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60067
I also have extensive first-hand experience in the treatment of individuals and families dealing with substance abuse and its human impact.
I believe that we all have some area of our lives that we would like to change. My passion is to walk with individuals who want or need this change. For change to take place in treatment we need clear direction with measurable goals, a strong sense of hope, and a good fit between the therapist and client. I take a holistic approach to counseling that addresses the physical, intellectual, emotional, social, ethical, and spiritual needs of the client. I would love to be a part of your change process.
I also have extensive first-hand experience in the treatment of individuals and families dealing with substance abuse and its human impact.
I believe that we all have some area of our lives that we would like to change. My passion is to walk with individuals who want or need this change. For change to take place in treatment we need clear direction with measurable goals, a strong sense of hope, and a good fit between the therapist and client. I take a holistic approach to counseling that addresses the physical, intellectual, emotional, social, ethical, and spiritual needs of the client. I would love to be a part of your change process.
(847) 278-2996 View (847) 278-2996
Photo of Marilyn Tulloch, LCPC, Counselor
Marilyn Tulloch
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60067
She has experience working with issues such as anxiety, trauma history, survivors of narcissistic abuse/ addiction, depression, grief/loss, anxiety, caregiver stress, and trauma related issues.
Marilyn Tulloch, LCPC received her M.S. from Illinois State University in 1994. As a therapist with 30 years of experience, working with older teens, emerging adults, older adults, couples, and varying multicultural backgrounds. Her clients share that they appreciate her warmth, sense of humor, accepting attitude, and creativity. Marilyn incorporates evidence based therapeutic approaches which promote clients' healing processes by using mindfulness. cognitive behavioral therapy, rational emotive behavioral therapy, and client centered approaches.
She has experience working with issues such as anxiety, trauma history, survivors of narcissistic abuse/ addiction, depression, grief/loss, anxiety, caregiver stress, and trauma related issues.
Marilyn Tulloch, LCPC received her M.S. from Illinois State University in 1994. As a therapist with 30 years of experience, working with older teens, emerging adults, older adults, couples, and varying multicultural backgrounds. Her clients share that they appreciate her warmth, sense of humor, accepting attitude, and creativity. Marilyn incorporates evidence based therapeutic approaches which promote clients' healing processes by using mindfulness. cognitive behavioral therapy, rational emotive behavioral therapy, and client centered approaches.
(708) 694-7062 View (708) 694-7062
Photo of Patti Di Giacinto, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patti Di Giacinto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067
I also have a specialty license called a CADC, which are unique credentials to help individuals manage addiction and substance abuse issues.
Even the healthiest of individuals experience times when extra support can be beneficial. Therapy can be a wonderful support to help navigate life in a healthier way. I enjoy helping people explore how they would like their lives to be different and helping them achieve this. My clients describe my style as compassionate and non-judgmental but also very interactive, appreciating my willingness to hold them accountable for changes they would like to make. I feel it is my honor and privilege to be allowed into people's lives in this way.
I also have a specialty license called a CADC, which are unique credentials to help individuals manage addiction and substance abuse issues.
Even the healthiest of individuals experience times when extra support can be beneficial. Therapy can be a wonderful support to help navigate life in a healthier way. I enjoy helping people explore how they would like their lives to be different and helping them achieve this. My clients describe my style as compassionate and non-judgmental but also very interactive, appreciating my willingness to hold them accountable for changes they would like to make. I feel it is my honor and privilege to be allowed into people's lives in this way.
(847) 379-5906 View (847) 379-5906
Photo of Barrington Addiction Recovery, PsyD, LCSW, LCPC, CADC, Psychologist
Barrington Addiction Recovery
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60067
Barrington Addiction Recovery (BAR) is a group of addiction specialists within Barrington Behavioral Health & Wellness offering services to individuals and families struggling with alcohol or drugs. From intervention services to long term recovery, we have been specializing in the field for the past 20 years. Our clinicians are non-judgemental, compassionate, and clinically excellent. We meet you right where you are and partner with you to navigate a path that leads to health & healing. Our mission is to restore individuals and families and to create lives that are worth living. We believe in persistence and see miracles.
Barrington Addiction Recovery (BAR) is a group of addiction specialists within Barrington Behavioral Health & Wellness offering services to individuals and families struggling with alcohol or drugs. From intervention services to long term recovery, we have been specializing in the field for the past 20 years. Our clinicians are non-judgemental, compassionate, and clinically excellent. We meet you right where you are and partner with you to navigate a path that leads to health & healing. Our mission is to restore individuals and families and to create lives that are worth living. We believe in persistence and see miracles.
(877) 978-3095 View (877) 978-3095
Photo of Catherine Lyons, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Lyons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60074
My specialty areas are addiction, anxiety, depression, bipolar, coping skills, chronic medical issues, spirituality, women’s issues, and relationship issues.
In my work with clients, I create a safe environment in which clients can be heard and can develop trust in the therapeutic relationship in which self-exploration and change can occur. I practice active listening, compassion, and empowerment.
My specialty areas are addiction, anxiety, depression, bipolar, coping skills, chronic medical issues, spirituality, women’s issues, and relationship issues.
In my work with clients, I create a safe environment in which clients can be heard and can develop trust in the therapeutic relationship in which self-exploration and change can occur. I practice active listening, compassion, and empowerment.
(847) 908-5526 View (847) 908-5526
Photo of Barry E Hinkeldey, MA, CADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Barry E Hinkeldey
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, CADC
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60038
Clients that suffer from substance use disorder can seek counseling to obtain a better understanding of their choices and/or disease. My vision with each client is helping them regain a sense of control through recovery and a positive outlook on life.
Clients that suffer from substance use disorder can seek counseling to obtain a better understanding of their choices and/or disease. My vision with each client is helping them regain a sense of control through recovery and a positive outlook on life.
(224) 360-5391 View (224) 360-5391
Photo of Jim Madden - Purple Flowers 365 Counseling Services, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Purple Flowers 365 Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60067
Jim is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked in the field of addiction and recovery, for over 34 years. His passion also lies in helping those who struggle with anxiety. Jim has experienced, that when anxiety is left untreated, it often gets worst; potentially immobilizing an individual. Jim brings a tremendous amount of knowledge, hope, and empathy to families struggling with addiction and mental illness. As a married man, and father of six, Jim has a fresh unique-perspective on family dynamics; along with the pressure that kids, adolescents, and parents experience in today's world.
Jim is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked in the field of addiction and recovery, for over 34 years. His passion also lies in helping those who struggle with anxiety. Jim has experienced, that when anxiety is left untreated, it often gets worst; potentially immobilizing an individual. Jim brings a tremendous amount of knowledge, hope, and empathy to families struggling with addiction and mental illness. As a married man, and father of six, Jim has a fresh unique-perspective on family dynamics; along with the pressure that kids, adolescents, and parents experience in today's world.
(847) 558-7463 View (847) 558-7463
Photo of Heather L Slocum, LPC Intern
Heather L Slocum
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60038
I am an LPC and CADC Intern with 10 years’ experience working with diverse populations to overcome struggles with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, self-esteem, and general life transitions.
What if you were given the opportunity to rewrite your past? What would you change? What would you keep the same? I believe everyone can take their power back and make way for their own personal growth. In order to grow, we must first find peace in healing. Together, we will utilize Narrative Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you meet your goals and find personal growth. In the beginning of our journey together, we will explore the issues that you would like to address to create a purpose driven and safe environment for us to unpack together.
I am an LPC and CADC Intern with 10 years’ experience working with diverse populations to overcome struggles with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, self-esteem, and general life transitions.
What if you were given the opportunity to rewrite your past? What would you change? What would you keep the same? I believe everyone can take their power back and make way for their own personal growth. In order to grow, we must first find peace in healing. Together, we will utilize Narrative Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you meet your goals and find personal growth. In the beginning of our journey together, we will explore the issues that you would like to address to create a purpose driven and safe environment for us to unpack together.
(847) 904-6310 View (847) 904-6310
Photo of Anna Sponsel, MS, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Anna Sponsel
Counselor, MS, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60074
Additionally, I am an alcohol and drug counselor with experience in treating drug abuse and addiction in schools, community agencies, and private practice.
No matter the source of pain, my therapy offers a collaborative process to provide healing and transformation to the things and areas that are causing problems. With over 20 years of experience and specialized training, I provide genuine and meaningful care to my clients in a safe and nonjudgmental environment to cultivate lasting change.
Additionally, I am an alcohol and drug counselor with experience in treating drug abuse and addiction in schools, community agencies, and private practice.
No matter the source of pain, my therapy offers a collaborative process to provide healing and transformation to the things and areas that are causing problems. With over 20 years of experience and specialized training, I provide genuine and meaningful care to my clients in a safe and nonjudgmental environment to cultivate lasting change.
(847) 852-4145 View (847) 852-4145
Photo of Lisa Kohut, EdD, EdS, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Lisa Kohut
Counselor, EdD, EdS, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60074
I am a Christian Counselor/Psychologist and I use a compassionate, direct, faith based and solution focused approach that's personalized to your needs. If you're looking to get to the root of your issues, you want to improve the quality of your life and you want to be happier or have more peace, you've come to the right place. Whether it's individual therapy, marriage counseling, addiction counseling, psychological assessments or parental guidance for the challenging teenage years, I'll gently, but directly guide you in the right direction to discovering lasting solutions.
I am a Christian Counselor/Psychologist and I use a compassionate, direct, faith based and solution focused approach that's personalized to your needs. If you're looking to get to the root of your issues, you want to improve the quality of your life and you want to be happier or have more peace, you've come to the right place. Whether it's individual therapy, marriage counseling, addiction counseling, psychological assessments or parental guidance for the challenging teenage years, I'll gently, but directly guide you in the right direction to discovering lasting solutions.
(847) 457-0577 View (847) 457-0577
Photo of Laken Sullivan, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Laken Sullivan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067
If you’re facing challenges of anxiety, depression, substance use, ADHD, disordered eating, or trauma, I would love to be part of your journey towards freedom and self-acceptance.
I love working with adolescents and young adults to navigate challenges and gain the confidence needed to overcome them. We will work together to identify ways you can overcome barriers to achieve happiness and fulfillment. As someone who was challenged with ADHD growing up, I realized that I needed someone like my professional self now to be my personal ‘coach’ to help me recognize my worth and my ability to face anxiety and overcome my weaknesses.
If you’re facing challenges of anxiety, depression, substance use, ADHD, disordered eating, or trauma, I would love to be part of your journey towards freedom and self-acceptance.
I love working with adolescents and young adults to navigate challenges and gain the confidence needed to overcome them. We will work together to identify ways you can overcome barriers to achieve happiness and fulfillment. As someone who was challenged with ADHD growing up, I realized that I needed someone like my professional self now to be my personal ‘coach’ to help me recognize my worth and my ability to face anxiety and overcome my weaknesses.
(224) 490-0869 View (224) 490-0869
Photo of Elinda Magnuson, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elinda Magnuson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067
With a warm and empathetic approach, I offer a safe space for exploration. Through an existential lens, I also integrate a variety of approaches such as CBT and solution-focused therapy. I have experience helping clients navigate concerns such as grief, chronic pain, relationships, depression, anxiety, and substance use. Believing in the inherent purpose within each person, I guide individuals toward self-discovery and purposeful living. Whether you’re facing challenges or seeking personal growth, I’m here to support your journey. Please email me directly with any questions!
With a warm and empathetic approach, I offer a safe space for exploration. Through an existential lens, I also integrate a variety of approaches such as CBT and solution-focused therapy. I have experience helping clients navigate concerns such as grief, chronic pain, relationships, depression, anxiety, and substance use. Believing in the inherent purpose within each person, I guide individuals toward self-discovery and purposeful living. Whether you’re facing challenges or seeking personal growth, I’m here to support your journey. Please email me directly with any questions!
(847) 957-9817 View (847) 957-9817
Photo of Edgar Ramos - Ramos & Associates Behavioral Health Clinic, PsyD, Psychologist
Ramos & Associates Behavioral Health Clinic
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60067
Our staff of highly trained and experienced clinicians offer specialized services in various fields such as , psychological, counseling, substance abuse and art therapy.
Greetings, I am Dr. Edgar Ramos, founder and Director of Ramos and Associates Behavioral Health Clinic. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with nearly 20 years of experience in various capacities. I have worked with many populations, such as children, adolescents and adults. My experience as a director of clinical services for residential treatment services, behavioral health hospital and community outpatient clinic gives me a robust range of specialties and experiences.
Our staff of highly trained and experienced clinicians offer specialized services in various fields such as , psychological, counseling, substance abuse and art therapy.
Greetings, I am Dr. Edgar Ramos, founder and Director of Ramos and Associates Behavioral Health Clinic. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with nearly 20 years of experience in various capacities. I have worked with many populations, such as children, adolescents and adults. My experience as a director of clinical services for residential treatment services, behavioral health hospital and community outpatient clinic gives me a robust range of specialties and experiences.
(708) 789-5669 View (708) 789-5669
Photo of Eric H Connor, MS, LCPC, CSAT-S, CMAT, EMDR, Counselor
Eric H Connor
Counselor, MS, LCPC, CSAT-S, CMAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60067
Waitlist for new clients
I am an experienced EMDR and CSAT therapist with specialities in sexual addiction, infidelity and relationship challenges.
Are you trapped in a cycle of unhealthy, compulsive behavior? Do you feel powerless to change it? Has sexual addiction or infidelity wrecked havoc on your life and family? At times like these each day can feel overwhelming and isolating. We know there is a problem but we don't know where to turn. Know that you are not alone - hope is here and available. My primary objective is to provide a safe, supportive place for you to begin your process. Together we will work to heal from unhealthy compulsive behaviors, unresolved shame and codependency.
I am an experienced EMDR and CSAT therapist with specialities in sexual addiction, infidelity and relationship challenges.
Are you trapped in a cycle of unhealthy, compulsive behavior? Do you feel powerless to change it? Has sexual addiction or infidelity wrecked havoc on your life and family? At times like these each day can feel overwhelming and isolating. We know there is a problem but we don't know where to turn. Know that you are not alone - hope is here and available. My primary objective is to provide a safe, supportive place for you to begin your process. Together we will work to heal from unhealthy compulsive behaviors, unresolved shame and codependency.
(224) 619-3336 View (224) 619-3336
Photo of Michael Pollard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Pollard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60067
I specialize in Sexual Addiction and Compulsivity.
I bring 25 plus years of professional experience to all my clients. I take seriously their issues, problems and struggles. I listen with a caring heart and respect my clients and their views. I offer hope to those who struggle with pain and am honored to walk with them in part of their life journey. My counseling approach is supportive, thoughtful, and gently challenging. My specialties include working with those who are struggling with anxiety, the darkness of depression, addiction, and those fighting compulsive sexual behaviors. I also assist couples with communication and decision making.
I specialize in Sexual Addiction and Compulsivity.
I bring 25 plus years of professional experience to all my clients. I take seriously their issues, problems and struggles. I listen with a caring heart and respect my clients and their views. I offer hope to those who struggle with pain and am honored to walk with them in part of their life journey. My counseling approach is supportive, thoughtful, and gently challenging. My specialties include working with those who are struggling with anxiety, the darkness of depression, addiction, and those fighting compulsive sexual behaviors. I also assist couples with communication and decision making.
(847) 920-7680 View (847) 920-7680
1
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.