Addiction Therapists in Abington, MA

Photo of Karen Peabody - Forgewell Solutions, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Forgewell Solutions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Abington, MA 02351
Forgewell Solutions has a variety of therapists that specialize in most forms of mental health treatment. We are a seasoned team committed to excellent clinical care for our patients. If you are looking for treatment with Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Complex Post Trauma Stress Disorder, Addiction, Chronic Pain, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Phobias, and issues of attachment and/or acute situational issues. Our therapists address issues with children as young as 6 spanning throughout all adult ages.
Forgewell Solutions has a variety of therapists that specialize in most forms of mental health treatment. We are a seasoned team committed to excellent clinical care for our patients. If you are looking for treatment with Depression, Anxiety, Attention Deficit Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Complex Post Trauma Stress Disorder, Addiction, Chronic Pain, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Phobias, and issues of attachment and/or acute situational issues. Our therapists address issues with children as young as 6 spanning throughout all adult ages.
(508) 690-5969 View (508) 690-5969
Photo of Tracy Halle - The Psyched Group, LMHC, Counselor
The Psyched Group
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Abington, MA 02351
Helping kids, adolescents, adults and couples maximizing mental wellness through relationship to self and other(s). We are a group of 20+ therapists in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Whether it's me or another therapist on our team we will help find you the right fit for you.
Helping kids, adolescents, adults and couples maximizing mental wellness through relationship to self and other(s). We are a group of 20+ therapists in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Whether it's me or another therapist on our team we will help find you the right fit for you.
(508) 691-8252 View (508) 691-8252
Photo of Shannon B'shara @ The Psyched Group, LMHC, Counselor
Shannon B'shara @ The Psyched Group
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Abington, MA 02351  (Online Only)
Sometimes life throws obstacles in our way that are difficult to navigate. You might feel stuck, and together we will "unstuck" you into movement, joy, and satisfaction. Together, we work on helping you find your path—a path unique for you and your life. To journey into full wellness, we will integrate good emotions in your body while cultivating positive thoughts in your mind so you'll vibe (soul) in new ways that find joyful purposeful living. Valuing body-mind-soulful connections allows you to find solutions that work for your unique you!
Sometimes life throws obstacles in our way that are difficult to navigate. You might feel stuck, and together we will "unstuck" you into movement, joy, and satisfaction. Together, we work on helping you find your path—a path unique for you and your life. To journey into full wellness, we will integrate good emotions in your body while cultivating positive thoughts in your mind so you'll vibe (soul) in new ways that find joyful purposeful living. Valuing body-mind-soulful connections allows you to find solutions that work for your unique you!
(508) 978-7637 View (508) 978-7637
Photo of Ed O'Brien @ The Psyched Group, P-LMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ed O'Brien @ The Psyched Group
Pre-Licensed Professional, P-LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Abington, MA 02351  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Men's issues, men's health, relationships, work/life stress, minor drug/alcohol-related disturbances, divorce navigation/contemplation, anger, addictive behaviors, and career mapping are a few core issues I resolve for my clients. Emotional disturbance (anxiety, depression, confusion, etc) manifests when you fail to confidently and honestly live your life with meaningful purpose and positive action. Low esteem, lack of confidence, little motivation, and chronic worry all negatively impact your relationship to self and others creating symptoms that can spiral downward. Let's arrest the emotional spiral so you start living better.
Men's issues, men's health, relationships, work/life stress, minor drug/alcohol-related disturbances, divorce navigation/contemplation, anger, addictive behaviors, and career mapping are a few core issues I resolve for my clients. Emotional disturbance (anxiety, depression, confusion, etc) manifests when you fail to confidently and honestly live your life with meaningful purpose and positive action. Low esteem, lack of confidence, little motivation, and chronic worry all negatively impact your relationship to self and others creating symptoms that can spiral downward. Let's arrest the emotional spiral so you start living better.
(508) 978-2097 View (508) 978-2097
Photo of Margot Morrison Lee, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Margot Morrison Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Abington, MA 02351  (Online Only)
For 24 years, I have been working with clients in a variety of settings to help them understand the various ways they can make changes to improve how they are feeling and functioning. Licensed in Massachusetts, I love working with adults, teens, couples, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Throughout my career, I have helped clients with stress, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), relationship issues including couples counseling, addictions and alcoholism, anxiety, depression, grief, issues with coping, and career counseling.
For 24 years, I have been working with clients in a variety of settings to help them understand the various ways they can make changes to improve how they are feeling and functioning. Licensed in Massachusetts, I love working with adults, teens, couples, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Throughout my career, I have helped clients with stress, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), relationship issues including couples counseling, addictions and alcoholism, anxiety, depression, grief, issues with coping, and career counseling.
(508) 440-4286 View (508) 440-4286

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nik R Protasenia - Victorious Counseling Services, LMHC, Counselor
Victorious Counseling Services
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hingham, MA 02043
Waitlist for new clients
Are you going through a major change? Do you feel overwhelmed by the responsibilities of daily life? Many turn to substance abuse or other coping mechanisms to quell negative emotions. Thankfully, seeking professional help is becoming more normalized, empowering people to seek long-term solutions. If your mental health is interfering in your life, psychotherapy can help you process your struggles and become the best version of yourself.
Are you going through a major change? Do you feel overwhelmed by the responsibilities of daily life? Many turn to substance abuse or other coping mechanisms to quell negative emotions. Thankfully, seeking professional help is becoming more normalized, empowering people to seek long-term solutions. If your mental health is interfering in your life, psychotherapy can help you process your struggles and become the best version of yourself.
(781) 875-8956 View (781) 875-8956
Photo of Joyce Bengal - Joyce Bengal, EdM, LADC1, SA/MH, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Joyce Bengal
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, EdM, LADC1, SA/MH
Verified Verified
Bridgewater, MA 02324  (Online Only)
My role is to teach you the tools of change I learned at Harvard and ongoing education in both mental health and substance abuse, and the Street.
I am Joyce Bengal. Monarca Counseling is my multicultural practice open to adults. If you are ready to let go of the drug or feeling that has a hold on you, and create a life, I am here as your Change Agent. As a therapist with over 30 years of experience working through agencies, shelters, juvenile facilities, and prisons, I continue to address anxiety and depression, trauma, gender id and racism. Using: CBT, behavioral and psychodynamic, motivational interviewing and expressive therapies. And bring teaching experience at Tuskegee Institute, Miles College and Tufts Experimental College to my practice.
My role is to teach you the tools of change I learned at Harvard and ongoing education in both mental health and substance abuse, and the Street.
I am Joyce Bengal. Monarca Counseling is my multicultural practice open to adults. If you are ready to let go of the drug or feeling that has a hold on you, and create a life, I am here as your Change Agent. As a therapist with over 30 years of experience working through agencies, shelters, juvenile facilities, and prisons, I continue to address anxiety and depression, trauma, gender id and racism. Using: CBT, behavioral and psychodynamic, motivational interviewing and expressive therapies. And bring teaching experience at Tuskegee Institute, Miles College and Tufts Experimental College to my practice.
(508) 905-6442 View (508) 905-6442
Photo of Nashley Nieves, LADC I, LCSW, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Nashley Nieves
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC I, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brockton, MA 02301  (Online Only)
As a BIPOC therapist, I strive to provide culturally sensitive & affirming therapy across social identities to assist with substance misuse/dual diagnosis, LGBTQIA2S+ care, probation, and addressing the impact of systemic challenges in the narrative.
Hello! I am a licensed addictions therapist with a background in social work, and I work with individuals motivated to maintain their recovery journey and learn more about themselves along the way. I have a diverse background due to my experiences across the gambit of settings from inpatient detox and residential centers, community based programming, state prisons, and outpatient clinics. As such, I work with adults to process trauma and daily stressors that may be impacting their ability to become the version of themselves they wish to achieve.
As a BIPOC therapist, I strive to provide culturally sensitive & affirming therapy across social identities to assist with substance misuse/dual diagnosis, LGBTQIA2S+ care, probation, and addressing the impact of systemic challenges in the narrative.
Hello! I am a licensed addictions therapist with a background in social work, and I work with individuals motivated to maintain their recovery journey and learn more about themselves along the way. I have a diverse background due to my experiences across the gambit of settings from inpatient detox and residential centers, community based programming, state prisons, and outpatient clinics. As such, I work with adults to process trauma and daily stressors that may be impacting their ability to become the version of themselves they wish to achieve.
(857) 419-5205 View (857) 419-5205
Photo of Linda Garvey-Dickey, LMHC, LACD 1, Counselor
Linda Garvey-Dickey
Counselor, LMHC, LACD 1
Verified Verified
Hanover, MA 02339
My skills in addiction have empowered many clients in freedom from addiction.
I am a strength based therapist with over 25 years of Mental Health and Substance Abuse treatment. I also am a Certified Problem Gambling Specialist. My treatment is client based and work with my clients to create their own treatment plans. Therapy includes CBT, mindfulness, gentle reprocessing , and other modalities which fit the circumstances of each individual client.
My skills in addiction have empowered many clients in freedom from addiction.
I am a strength based therapist with over 25 years of Mental Health and Substance Abuse treatment. I also am a Certified Problem Gambling Specialist. My treatment is client based and work with my clients to create their own treatment plans. Therapy includes CBT, mindfulness, gentle reprocessing , and other modalities which fit the circumstances of each individual client.
(339) 900-2890 View (339) 900-2890
Photo of Jade Eary, RC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jade Eary
Pre-Licensed Professional, RC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brockton, MA 02303
Jade has been working in the field of substance abuse and co-occurring disorders for over three years. Jade is a certified recovery coach and she is currently studying to become a licensed alcohol and drug counselor (LADC). While Jade brings her education into her practice, she also has personal experiences with substance use disorder as she is in recovery herself. Jade is 6 years clean and sober off of drugs and alcohol. She knows the struggles and difficulties of overcoming ones addiction first hand.
Jade has been working in the field of substance abuse and co-occurring disorders for over three years. Jade is a certified recovery coach and she is currently studying to become a licensed alcohol and drug counselor (LADC). While Jade brings her education into her practice, she also has personal experiences with substance use disorder as she is in recovery herself. Jade is 6 years clean and sober off of drugs and alcohol. She knows the struggles and difficulties of overcoming ones addiction first hand.
(508) 413-2215 View (508) 413-2215
Photo of Courtney Fischer, LMHC, Counselor
Courtney Fischer
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brockton, MA 02301  (Online Only)
I specialize in a variety of topics such as addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, self esteem, and more.
My main hope for therapy is to support humans who are 16 years and older as they navigate the complex world of human emotion, mental health, and relationships. A good life can be hard, complicated, and challenging while a difficult life can still be rewarding, fulfilling, and well-lived. I seek to join with those who are struggling with that complexity to help them achieve the goals they have for themselves, to help them cope with inherent disappointments, losses, and stressors, and feel the joy of personal growth.. I tend to integrate a mix of Solution-Focused, CBT, Narrative, Trauma-Informed Care, and Strengths-Based strategies.
I specialize in a variety of topics such as addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, self esteem, and more.
My main hope for therapy is to support humans who are 16 years and older as they navigate the complex world of human emotion, mental health, and relationships. A good life can be hard, complicated, and challenging while a difficult life can still be rewarding, fulfilling, and well-lived. I seek to join with those who are struggling with that complexity to help them achieve the goals they have for themselves, to help them cope with inherent disappointments, losses, and stressors, and feel the joy of personal growth.. I tend to integrate a mix of Solution-Focused, CBT, Narrative, Trauma-Informed Care, and Strengths-Based strategies.
(339) 217-9963 View (339) 217-9963
Photo of Gregory Jon Stewart (Greg), LMHC, Counselor
Gregory Jon Stewart (Greg)
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Norwell, MA 02061
Hello, I am a Therapist; a LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor) in Private Practice in Cohasset, MA. I have been working with others who carry a host of behavioral issues but my field of expertise is addiction. I accept Blue Cross/Blue Shield, offer weekend hours as well as M-F. I offer in-person or virtual (on-line) visits. Reach out (Call, Text, Email).
Hello, I am a Therapist; a LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor) in Private Practice in Cohasset, MA. I have been working with others who carry a host of behavioral issues but my field of expertise is addiction. I accept Blue Cross/Blue Shield, offer weekend hours as well as M-F. I offer in-person or virtual (on-line) visits. Reach out (Call, Text, Email).
(508) 761-1410 View (508) 761-1410
Photo of Nashley Nieves, LADC, LCSW, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Nashley Nieves
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC, LCSW
Verified Verified
East Bridgewater, MA 02333
As a BIPOC therapist, I strive to provide culturally sensitive & affirming therapy across social identities to assist with substance misuse/dual diagnosis, LGBTQIA2S+ care, probation, and addressing the impact of systemic challenges in the narrative.
I am a licensed bi-lingual addictions therapist with a background in social work, and I work with individuals motivated to maintain their recovery journey and learn more about themselves along the way. I have a diverse background due to my experiences across the gambit of settings from inpatient detox and residential centers, community based programming, state prisons, and outpatient clinics. As such, I work with adults to process trauma and daily stressors that may be impacting their ability to become the version of themselves they wish to achieve.
As a BIPOC therapist, I strive to provide culturally sensitive & affirming therapy across social identities to assist with substance misuse/dual diagnosis, LGBTQIA2S+ care, probation, and addressing the impact of systemic challenges in the narrative.
I am a licensed bi-lingual addictions therapist with a background in social work, and I work with individuals motivated to maintain their recovery journey and learn more about themselves along the way. I have a diverse background due to my experiences across the gambit of settings from inpatient detox and residential centers, community based programming, state prisons, and outpatient clinics. As such, I work with adults to process trauma and daily stressors that may be impacting their ability to become the version of themselves they wish to achieve.
(508) 286-7984 x722 View (508) 286-7984 x722
Photo of Karen L Peabody, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen L Peabody
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
East Bridgewater, MA 02333
I have a client-centered treatment approach for all clients. My goal is to provide a warm and attentive environment that produces personal growth and wholeness. I specialize in treating Addiction, Trauma, Anxiety, Grief/Loss, Self Esteem Issues and Depression. Everybody has a time in their lives when they need additional support. I understand asking for help is a very difficult. However, making the decision that you will not live in emotional pain for another day is the best decision you can make for yourself. I can help you learning the skills you need to free yourself from this pain.
I have a client-centered treatment approach for all clients. My goal is to provide a warm and attentive environment that produces personal growth and wholeness. I specialize in treating Addiction, Trauma, Anxiety, Grief/Loss, Self Esteem Issues and Depression. Everybody has a time in their lives when they need additional support. I understand asking for help is a very difficult. However, making the decision that you will not live in emotional pain for another day is the best decision you can make for yourself. I can help you learning the skills you need to free yourself from this pain.
(774) 413-7136 View (774) 413-7136
Photo of Jessica Hanson, MS, LMFT, LADC1, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Hanson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LADC1
Verified Verified
Norwell, MA 02061  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Online Therapy Only. In my practice, I strive to provide a nurturing and accepting environment where clients have autonomy and feel safe to express themselves without judgment. I utilize techniques that empower and cultivate hope. Much of my experience is working with trauma and addictive patterns of behavior, substance abuse and eating disorders, as well as anxiety and depression. I utilize motivational interviewing techniques in conjunction with CBT to uncover and change unhealthy patterns of thinking and behavior. It is often the lies we believe about ourselves and situations that keep us stuck and prevent progress.
Online Therapy Only. In my practice, I strive to provide a nurturing and accepting environment where clients have autonomy and feel safe to express themselves without judgment. I utilize techniques that empower and cultivate hope. Much of my experience is working with trauma and addictive patterns of behavior, substance abuse and eating disorders, as well as anxiety and depression. I utilize motivational interviewing techniques in conjunction with CBT to uncover and change unhealthy patterns of thinking and behavior. It is often the lies we believe about ourselves and situations that keep us stuck and prevent progress.
(508) 484-8379 View (508) 484-8379
Photo of Patricia Wornum, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Patricia Wornum
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brockton, MA 02301  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults and youth who may have depression, anxiety, family issues, substance abuse, trauma or just every day life issues.
When you are in a session with me you are free to be yourself and to speak your truth. There is no judgment. We work together to process your thoughts and feelings until we can get to the root of the problem so that you can build coping skills to cope with the issue or resolve the issue if possible. I am looking forward to guiding you through your journey. Some days may be harder than others and that is where I come in to offer my listening ear and guidance. I use Person-Centered therapy, Holistic, CBT Motivational Interviewing and other interventions as needed.
I specialize in working with adults and youth who may have depression, anxiety, family issues, substance abuse, trauma or just every day life issues.
When you are in a session with me you are free to be yourself and to speak your truth. There is no judgment. We work together to process your thoughts and feelings until we can get to the root of the problem so that you can build coping skills to cope with the issue or resolve the issue if possible. I am looking forward to guiding you through your journey. Some days may be harder than others and that is where I come in to offer my listening ear and guidance. I use Person-Centered therapy, Holistic, CBT Motivational Interviewing and other interventions as needed.
(508) 978-4467 View (508) 978-4467
Photo of Kathryn Fernandes, MA, LMHC, CMHIMP, Counselor
Kathryn Fernandes
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
Bridgewater, MA 02324  (Online Only)
I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction, sexuality and relationship issues and other major life adjustments. I offer a compassionate and understanding atmosphere in which clients may take control of their lives and move toward a greater sense of satisfaction. I utilize mindfulness based cognitive behavioral therapy, among others, to individually support clients in boosting the self-confidence needed to overcome life's many obstacles. I offer support for those working on life day-by-day, and help others achieve their long-term goals by creating paths to get there, and enjoying the journey along the way.
I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction, sexuality and relationship issues and other major life adjustments. I offer a compassionate and understanding atmosphere in which clients may take control of their lives and move toward a greater sense of satisfaction. I utilize mindfulness based cognitive behavioral therapy, among others, to individually support clients in boosting the self-confidence needed to overcome life's many obstacles. I offer support for those working on life day-by-day, and help others achieve their long-term goals by creating paths to get there, and enjoying the journey along the way.
(508) 317-4927 View (508) 317-4927
Photo of Steven Allison, PsyD, Psychologist
Steven Allison
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hingham, MA 02043
Learn to recognize your strengths and use them to develop skills to help manage the challenges in your life. Relationship problems, anxiety, depression, parenting issues, and substance abuse are all problems that leave people feeling stuck and unable to move forward. With a Doctorate in Psychology and more than 20 years clinical experience, I will work in a collaborative way to help you understand the nature of the problems in your life and to set forth your goals for moving forward. You will discover your strengths, develop your skills for managing your life situation, and make the changes you seek.
Learn to recognize your strengths and use them to develop skills to help manage the challenges in your life. Relationship problems, anxiety, depression, parenting issues, and substance abuse are all problems that leave people feeling stuck and unable to move forward. With a Doctorate in Psychology and more than 20 years clinical experience, I will work in a collaborative way to help you understand the nature of the problems in your life and to set forth your goals for moving forward. You will discover your strengths, develop your skills for managing your life situation, and make the changes you seek.
(781) 277-7355 View (781) 277-7355
Photo of Keith Lombard, LADCII, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Keith Lombard
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADCII
Verified Verified
Quincy, MA 02169
Keith Lombard is a graduate of Umass Boston with a BA in psychology and attended the Licensed Alcohol and Drug Addiction Counseling course in 2010. Keith has worked in the field of substance abuse for over 8 years and was employed by the Boston Public Health Commission before joining NEATC. Mr. Lombard has experience with individual and family counseling with the understanding that addiction is a family disease. Keith has received numerous awards for his devotion to helping those in recovery from city and state officials.
Keith Lombard is a graduate of Umass Boston with a BA in psychology and attended the Licensed Alcohol and Drug Addiction Counseling course in 2010. Keith has worked in the field of substance abuse for over 8 years and was employed by the Boston Public Health Commission before joining NEATC. Mr. Lombard has experience with individual and family counseling with the understanding that addiction is a family disease. Keith has received numerous awards for his devotion to helping those in recovery from city and state officials.
(781) 808-3635 View (781) 808-3635
Photo of Marydanielle Ann Verrier, MEd, CGAS, LADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Marydanielle Ann Verrier
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MEd, CGAS, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Bridgewater, MA 02379  (Online Only)
I also have specialized in substance abuse and teach psycho education and different techniques for managing addiction.
We are currently still taking new clients and offering telehealth sessions. We specialize in most forms of mental health treatment and substance abuse. We are a seasoned committed to excellent clinical care for our patients. If you are looking for treatment for all ages. We use holistic approach to therapeutic treatment. Our goal is to provide a warm and attentive environment that produces personal growth and wholeness. This office offers various disciplines to assist our clients in achieving their personal goals. I specialize in cognitive behavioral, trauma informed, behavior modification interventions and Adlerian .
I also have specialized in substance abuse and teach psycho education and different techniques for managing addiction.
We are currently still taking new clients and offering telehealth sessions. We specialize in most forms of mental health treatment and substance abuse. We are a seasoned committed to excellent clinical care for our patients. If you are looking for treatment for all ages. We use holistic approach to therapeutic treatment. Our goal is to provide a warm and attentive environment that produces personal growth and wholeness. This office offers various disciplines to assist our clients in achieving their personal goals. I specialize in cognitive behavioral, trauma informed, behavior modification interventions and Adlerian .
(781) 819-5777 View (781) 819-5777
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.