Addiction Therapists in Middleton, MA

Photo of Kelli Ann Sullivan, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelli Ann Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middleton, MA 01949  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience with grief, loss and illness as well as substance abuse, eating disorders, depression and anxiety, life transitions, stress management and relationship issues.
“People are just as wonderful as sunsets if you let them be." ― Carl R. Rogers. As an LICSW, I have over 20 years of experience helping people from all walks of life during times of crisis or at minor crossroads. I have worked in a variety of therapeutic settings including community mental health, hospitals and for the last 11 years as a medical social worker for hospice. I offer a safe, kind and nonjudgmental space that can be used just for you.
I have extensive experience with grief, loss and illness as well as substance abuse, eating disorders, depression and anxiety, life transitions, stress management and relationship issues.
“People are just as wonderful as sunsets if you let them be." ― Carl R. Rogers. As an LICSW, I have over 20 years of experience helping people from all walks of life during times of crisis or at minor crossroads. I have worked in a variety of therapeutic settings including community mental health, hospitals and for the last 11 years as a medical social worker for hospice. I offer a safe, kind and nonjudgmental space that can be used just for you.
(978) 616-6489 View (978) 616-6489
Photo of Samantha Spagnuolo, LMHC, Counselor
Samantha Spagnuolo
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Middleton, MA 01949  (Online Only)
My general areas of specialty range from anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and other behavioral and stress management concerns.
It takes strength and courage to reach out when you feel that you are struggling and begin the first steps towards healing. I hope to create a respectful and non-judgmental space to help you feel valued and supported. I believe that people have knowledge about ways to change their lives and hope to empower them to see themselves as strong and capable of making these changes.
My general areas of specialty range from anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and other behavioral and stress management concerns.
It takes strength and courage to reach out when you feel that you are struggling and begin the first steps towards healing. I hope to create a respectful and non-judgmental space to help you feel valued and supported. I believe that people have knowledge about ways to change their lives and hope to empower them to see themselves as strong and capable of making these changes.
(351) 300-7641 View (351) 300-7641
Photo of Jennifer Burns, LMHC, CAGCS, Counselor
Jennifer Burns
Counselor, LMHC, CAGCS
Verified Verified
Middleton, MA 01949  (Online Only)
I have experience helping people with grief, addiction, depression, anxiety, legal issues and life transitions.
I’ve been a mental health counselor for 20 years and I am also a Certified Grief Specialist. I have a passion for helping people experiencing grief and loss. Loss can be concrete or abstract. Many major life changes can lead to the feeling of grief, including the death of a family member, friend or pet; or the loss of relationship or a job. The journey of grief is an individual one, and can be lonely, but you don’t need to walk it alone. I am here to help you navigate the difficult journey you are on.
I have experience helping people with grief, addiction, depression, anxiety, legal issues and life transitions.
I’ve been a mental health counselor for 20 years and I am also a Certified Grief Specialist. I have a passion for helping people experiencing grief and loss. Loss can be concrete or abstract. Many major life changes can lead to the feeling of grief, including the death of a family member, friend or pet; or the loss of relationship or a job. The journey of grief is an individual one, and can be lonely, but you don’t need to walk it alone. I am here to help you navigate the difficult journey you are on.
(857) 227-9125 View (857) 227-9125
Photo of Jennifer Wood, LMHC
Jennifer Wood
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Middleton, MA 01949
With over 15 years of experience working in the field of Mental Health, Substance Use, Trauma, Family/Couples Therapy, and Bi-lingual services. My passion is to see Families, Couples, and Individuals achieve the greatest version of themselves. I'm compassionate, attentive and a great listener. I also provide people the space to speak freely and empower them to make the changes necessary for their well being. I enjoy embarking on this journey as well as celebrating people's great success and empowering them to continue the work on their own once they are confident to do so. If you are looking for a better life balance it starts here.
With over 15 years of experience working in the field of Mental Health, Substance Use, Trauma, Family/Couples Therapy, and Bi-lingual services. My passion is to see Families, Couples, and Individuals achieve the greatest version of themselves. I'm compassionate, attentive and a great listener. I also provide people the space to speak freely and empower them to make the changes necessary for their well being. I enjoy embarking on this journey as well as celebrating people's great success and empowering them to continue the work on their own once they are confident to do so. If you are looking for a better life balance it starts here.
(351) 200-9126 View (351) 200-9126
Photo of Danielle Visone, LMHC, Counselor
Danielle Visone
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middleton, MA 01949  (Online Only)
She is passionate about working with people who suffer from substance use disorder, anxiety, depression, life transitions and crisis situations.
Danielle is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who specializes in holistic approach and addiction treatment located in Massachusetts. She has worked over 10 years as a crisis clinician and in the addiction fields. She is always learning new holistic approaches to bring to each session. She is committed to providing a warm, judgment free and safe environment where you are able to feel supported through your wellness journey. It is important that you work on mind, body, and spirit when on your this journey of healing and finding your inner light. Danielle has a warm empathetic approach in helping you in your self discovery
She is passionate about working with people who suffer from substance use disorder, anxiety, depression, life transitions and crisis situations.
Danielle is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who specializes in holistic approach and addiction treatment located in Massachusetts. She has worked over 10 years as a crisis clinician and in the addiction fields. She is always learning new holistic approaches to bring to each session. She is committed to providing a warm, judgment free and safe environment where you are able to feel supported through your wellness journey. It is important that you work on mind, body, and spirit when on your this journey of healing and finding your inner light. Danielle has a warm empathetic approach in helping you in your self discovery
(508) 462-9925 View (508) 462-9925
Photo of Thomas D'Alessandro - Greater Essex Therapy, LLC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Greater Essex Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Middleton, MA 01949
*Certified CBT Therapist* My approach to therapy allows me to conduct solution-focused therapy; meaning that together we will work towards solving whatever questions you may have through changing thoughts and/or behaviors. I also perform Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) where my work focuses on helping people change problematic behaviors. With a teaching style heavily rooted in behavior therapy, I am able to work with people to problem solve in the here and now, where we will work to turn the issues of yesterday and today into a better tomorrow.
*Certified CBT Therapist* My approach to therapy allows me to conduct solution-focused therapy; meaning that together we will work towards solving whatever questions you may have through changing thoughts and/or behaviors. I also perform Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) where my work focuses on helping people change problematic behaviors. With a teaching style heavily rooted in behavior therapy, I am able to work with people to problem solve in the here and now, where we will work to turn the issues of yesterday and today into a better tomorrow.
(978) 769-3728 View (978) 769-3728
Photo of Thomas A D'Alessandro, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thomas A D'Alessandro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Middleton, MA 01949
*Certified CBT Therapist* My approach to therapy allows me to conduct solution-focused therapy; meaning that together we will work towards solving whatever questions you may have through changing thoughts and/or behaviors. I also perform Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) where my work focuses on helping people change problematic behaviors. With a teaching style heavily rooted in behavior therapy, I am able to work with people to problem solve in the here and now, where we will work to turn the issues of yesterday and today into a better tomorrow.
*Certified CBT Therapist* My approach to therapy allows me to conduct solution-focused therapy; meaning that together we will work towards solving whatever questions you may have through changing thoughts and/or behaviors. I also perform Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) where my work focuses on helping people change problematic behaviors. With a teaching style heavily rooted in behavior therapy, I am able to work with people to problem solve in the here and now, where we will work to turn the issues of yesterday and today into a better tomorrow.
(978) 424-4738 View (978) 424-4738
Photo of Catherine M Carlo, MSW, ACSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine M Carlo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ACSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Middleton, MA 01949
Imagine the best you can be. Imagine the best future possible. Your future doesn't have to be your past. Whether your issues are relationship, professional, life or health related our collaboration will identify, prioritize and help you achieve your goals. Together we travel a path of personal exploration and growth, while working to alleviate emotional distress. We begin by assessing issues causing pain. Then as partners, we determine what feels most comfortable. Your treatment path is as individual as you are. We select from a variety of insight oriented and cognitive behavioral therapies, including relaxation training and the expressive arts.
Imagine the best you can be. Imagine the best future possible. Your future doesn't have to be your past. Whether your issues are relationship, professional, life or health related our collaboration will identify, prioritize and help you achieve your goals. Together we travel a path of personal exploration and growth, while working to alleviate emotional distress. We begin by assessing issues causing pain. Then as partners, we determine what feels most comfortable. Your treatment path is as individual as you are. We select from a variety of insight oriented and cognitive behavioral therapies, including relaxation training and the expressive arts.
(617) 446-3089 View (617) 446-3089
Photo of Jane Finkelstein, LICSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jane Finkelstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Middleton, MA 01949
People know themselves best until.... Something happens internally or situations arise and one's emotions, reactions and behaviors become uncomfortable, ineffective, or unrecognizable. It is often at this point that one looks to a therapist for assistance and guidance in figuring out how to feel better, make significant changes, or begin one's journey to heal. I am always impressed with the amount of courage individuals exhibit as they put their trust in the therapeutic relationship. It is an honor and privilege to help individuals make changes in their life.
People know themselves best until.... Something happens internally or situations arise and one's emotions, reactions and behaviors become uncomfortable, ineffective, or unrecognizable. It is often at this point that one looks to a therapist for assistance and guidance in figuring out how to feel better, make significant changes, or begin one's journey to heal. I am always impressed with the amount of courage individuals exhibit as they put their trust in the therapeutic relationship. It is an honor and privilege to help individuals make changes in their life.
(978) 652-9990 View (978) 652-9990
Photo of Donna DeLone, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donna DeLone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Middleton, MA 01949
Not accepting new clients
Do you wonder where your passion for life went? Feel at a loss on how to make it better? Do you feel you and your partner keep having the same fights over and over again? Want to connect in an intimate way and feel fearful about how to begin? Those are some of the questions I help people resolve every day. I would love to help you with those too. I have over 30 years of experience helping individuals and couples heal the feelings, thoughts and behaviors that cause them distress internally or in relationships.
Do you wonder where your passion for life went? Feel at a loss on how to make it better? Do you feel you and your partner keep having the same fights over and over again? Want to connect in an intimate way and feel fearful about how to begin? Those are some of the questions I help people resolve every day. I would love to help you with those too. I have over 30 years of experience helping individuals and couples heal the feelings, thoughts and behaviors that cause them distress internally or in relationships.
(508) 928-5031 View (508) 928-5031
Photo of Katy Ong, LICSW, MSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katy Ong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Middleton, MA 01949
Not accepting new clients
I am a cognitive-behavioral therapist specializing in anxiety, mood disorders, grief, and trauma. While using an evidence-based, theory-driven approach, I acknowledge that each person is unique; therefore, I tailor the session with the intent to help each person gain clarity and insight into his/her individual situation.
I am a cognitive-behavioral therapist specializing in anxiety, mood disorders, grief, and trauma. While using an evidence-based, theory-driven approach, I acknowledge that each person is unique; therefore, I tailor the session with the intent to help each person gain clarity and insight into his/her individual situation.
(617) 500-6189 View (617) 500-6189

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Michelle Lee Simons, MS, LADC, I, CADC, RCP-F, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Michelle Lee Simons
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LADC, I, CADC, RCP-F
Verified Verified
Lynn, MA 01902  (Online Only)
As a person in long term recovery myself I adopt a 'meet people where they're at' approach, ensuring individuals in any stage of recovery never feel judged for not being 'ready.' With over two decades of experience, I've worked in the field since 2002 with various substance use agencies in both urban and suburban areas. Additionally, I spent a prior decade engaging in 'field research' alongside years of integrated living experience. My personal journey has revealed that establishing a robust recovery support system, with a foundation in spirituality, can lead to a lasting and fulfilling life in recovery.
As a person in long term recovery myself I adopt a 'meet people where they're at' approach, ensuring individuals in any stage of recovery never feel judged for not being 'ready.' With over two decades of experience, I've worked in the field since 2002 with various substance use agencies in both urban and suburban areas. Additionally, I spent a prior decade engaging in 'field research' alongside years of integrated living experience. My personal journey has revealed that establishing a robust recovery support system, with a foundation in spirituality, can lead to a lasting and fulfilling life in recovery.
(781) 394-9823 View (781) 394-9823
Photo of Louise A Dinsmore, LMHC, Counselor
Louise A Dinsmore
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Andover, MA 01810
Do you feel anxious and overwhelmed? Has your alcohol or drug use become more of a problem then an escape? You may find yourself here because you no longer feel in control. You may feel trapped in the cycle of drinking or using. Perhaps you have tried to stop on your own. Relief is possible, but often it requires support from someone who understands addiction. Let's get to the root of the problem. Therapy can help you figure out your "why". Together, we can identify healthy ways to cope. We can clarify your purpose and get you back to a life that isn't dictated by the urge to drink or use drugs.
Do you feel anxious and overwhelmed? Has your alcohol or drug use become more of a problem then an escape? You may find yourself here because you no longer feel in control. You may feel trapped in the cycle of drinking or using. Perhaps you have tried to stop on your own. Relief is possible, but often it requires support from someone who understands addiction. Let's get to the root of the problem. Therapy can help you figure out your "why". Together, we can identify healthy ways to cope. We can clarify your purpose and get you back to a life that isn't dictated by the urge to drink or use drugs.
(351) 206-0319 View (351) 206-0319
Photo of Evan Patten, MS, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Evan Patten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Andover, MA 01810  (Online Only)
Through my practice as an LMHC, I have found my style matches perfectly with people living with everyday mental illness such as anxiety/depression/ substance use/life stress. Most clients come to me for support with identifying issues, assessing them and then problem solving to overcome and strengthen their own skill set and use of coping skills. My clients enjoy traditional talk therapy as well as setting some goals and using my service to keep them accountable. Whether you are looking for a non biased, clinical, third party to chat with or someone to process and overcome stressors and life issues, you are in the right spot.
Through my practice as an LMHC, I have found my style matches perfectly with people living with everyday mental illness such as anxiety/depression/ substance use/life stress. Most clients come to me for support with identifying issues, assessing them and then problem solving to overcome and strengthen their own skill set and use of coping skills. My clients enjoy traditional talk therapy as well as setting some goals and using my service to keep them accountable. Whether you are looking for a non biased, clinical, third party to chat with or someone to process and overcome stressors and life issues, you are in the right spot.
(978) 543-5070 View (978) 543-5070
Photo of Sarah Anyanwu, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Anyanwu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Salem, MA 01970  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have enjoyed my extensive work with individuals that have struggled with substance misuse and/or poly substance use, in addition to various mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety and PTSD. I genuinely look up to my clients as they are open to implementing new skills and ideas into their already established perspectives in life. It is my belief that the opposite of addiction is connection to healthy individuals, as we are social beings by nature. We long to be wanted, loved and needed, and sometimes seek that longing through maladaptive ways that end up hurting us.
I have enjoyed my extensive work with individuals that have struggled with substance misuse and/or poly substance use, in addition to various mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety and PTSD. I genuinely look up to my clients as they are open to implementing new skills and ideas into their already established perspectives in life. It is my belief that the opposite of addiction is connection to healthy individuals, as we are social beings by nature. We long to be wanted, loved and needed, and sometimes seek that longing through maladaptive ways that end up hurting us.
(978) 878-3827 View (978) 878-3827
Photo of Rachel Tolan - RJ Tolan Counseling Group LLC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
RJ Tolan Counseling Group LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Beverly, MA 01915
Many outpatient therapists are treating addiction, many do not know what it is, how to assess for it, do not understand the progression of it or how to provide tools for moving forward.
RJ Tolan Counseling Group LLC. MISSION: To provide high quality therapy to individuals and their family members dealing with addiction and/or other mental health problems. We seek to provide education, support, coaching, and therapy on how to deal with addiction within yourself or a family member from all sides of the problem. VISION: To decrease the stigma attached to addiction and its devastating symptoms in effort to increase quality available supports and services.
Many outpatient therapists are treating addiction, many do not know what it is, how to assess for it, do not understand the progression of it or how to provide tools for moving forward.
RJ Tolan Counseling Group LLC. MISSION: To provide high quality therapy to individuals and their family members dealing with addiction and/or other mental health problems. We seek to provide education, support, coaching, and therapy on how to deal with addiction within yourself or a family member from all sides of the problem. VISION: To decrease the stigma attached to addiction and its devastating symptoms in effort to increase quality available supports and services.
(978) 288-0069 View (978) 288-0069
Photo of Kendra DelGaudio Murphy - Kendra Murphy- Newburyport Office of Wellness, LLC, LMHC
Kendra Murphy- Newburyport Office of Wellness, LLC
LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Georgetown, MA 01833
I've worked extensively with adults and adolescents on a wide range of issues including but not limited to complex addiction issues, anxiety, depression, managing conflict, stress management, trauma, relationship issues, and adjustment to motherhood.
As a Licensed Therapist, I have dedicated my career to empowering individuals, helping them to recognize their full potential. I believe therapy to be an investment in your own happiness and aim to create an environment that will make you enthusiastic about therapy and the commitment to developing a more authentic relationship with yourself and others. Therapy can be a powerful and exciting experience. I offer therapy to individuals, couples, and families. Together, we will identify problematic beliefs/behaviors/feelings and work towards surrendering destructive habits/thoughts/feelings that no longer serve you, causing emotional difficulties and/or personal problems.
I've worked extensively with adults and adolescents on a wide range of issues including but not limited to complex addiction issues, anxiety, depression, managing conflict, stress management, trauma, relationship issues, and adjustment to motherhood.
As a Licensed Therapist, I have dedicated my career to empowering individuals, helping them to recognize their full potential. I believe therapy to be an investment in your own happiness and aim to create an environment that will make you enthusiastic about therapy and the commitment to developing a more authentic relationship with yourself and others. Therapy can be a powerful and exciting experience. I offer therapy to individuals, couples, and families. Together, we will identify problematic beliefs/behaviors/feelings and work towards surrendering destructive habits/thoughts/feelings that no longer serve you, causing emotional difficulties and/or personal problems.
(617) 858-4194 View (617) 858-4194
Photo of Samantha Reppucci, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Samantha Reppucci
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
South Hamilton, MA 01982
My areas of expertise include: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance use disorders, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, maternal mental health and women's issues, adjustment disorders, and recovery from codependence.
Note: I see women only. I believe each individual has an innate wisdom and ability to heal themselves. Sometimes, we need guidance along our journey to provide us with the right tools to navigate towards wholeness. I offer a unique and integrative approach to counseling that focuses on treating the whole person, not just their presenting symptoms. Therapy is a safe gateway to explore the root of core wounds and trauma that has manifested into toxic behaviors and painful cycles such as depression, anxiety, addiction, and codependence. I engage in counseling with women who are seeking a path of self-love, recovery, and wholeness.
My areas of expertise include: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance use disorders, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, maternal mental health and women's issues, adjustment disorders, and recovery from codependence.
Note: I see women only. I believe each individual has an innate wisdom and ability to heal themselves. Sometimes, we need guidance along our journey to provide us with the right tools to navigate towards wholeness. I offer a unique and integrative approach to counseling that focuses on treating the whole person, not just their presenting symptoms. Therapy is a safe gateway to explore the root of core wounds and trauma that has manifested into toxic behaviors and painful cycles such as depression, anxiety, addiction, and codependence. I engage in counseling with women who are seeking a path of self-love, recovery, and wholeness.
(978) 625-3743 View (978) 625-3743
Photo of Dr. Peter Ward, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Peter Ward
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Marblehead, MA 01945  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have a Harvard Medical School appointment of Instructor at MGH, where I specialize in treating trauma and addictions.
I want to work with anyone looking to feel better. I enjoy helping others find relief from anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma and other symptoms or mental health conditions. I help clients find and address what is preventing their ability to function, grow, thrive, or just relax! I also enjoy helping people discover more about themselves and reconnect with their sense of meaning or purpose in life. Therapy takes effort and commitment and, in exchange, provides freedom from suffering. I would love to help you discover the gift I believe therapy can give to you.
I have a Harvard Medical School appointment of Instructor at MGH, where I specialize in treating trauma and addictions.
I want to work with anyone looking to feel better. I enjoy helping others find relief from anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma and other symptoms or mental health conditions. I help clients find and address what is preventing their ability to function, grow, thrive, or just relax! I also enjoy helping people discover more about themselves and reconnect with their sense of meaning or purpose in life. Therapy takes effort and commitment and, in exchange, provides freedom from suffering. I would love to help you discover the gift I believe therapy can give to you.
(617) 440-9702 View (617) 440-9702
Photo of Lucia Ciccarello, LMHC, Counselor
Lucia Ciccarello
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
North Andover, MA 01845
My ideal client would be someone who has not had much success with counseling in the past but is very motivated to participate. I would love to work with a client who has struggled with depression, anxiety, some substance use, and has a history of trauma. I would work to help this client recognize how these issues are connected and perpetuate a cycle. I would also want to help them interrupt that cycle and set boundaries with themselves and in interpersonal relationships. I would work with this client to find healthy hobbies and coping skills while also challenging them.
My ideal client would be someone who has not had much success with counseling in the past but is very motivated to participate. I would love to work with a client who has struggled with depression, anxiety, some substance use, and has a history of trauma. I would work to help this client recognize how these issues are connected and perpetuate a cycle. I would also want to help them interrupt that cycle and set boundaries with themselves and in interpersonal relationships. I would work with this client to find healthy hobbies and coping skills while also challenging them.
(339) 237-4002 View (339) 237-4002
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.