Addiction Therapists in Wellesley, MA

Photo of Laura Curtiss Feder, PsyD, Psychologist
Laura Curtiss Feder
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating behavioral and substance addictions and compulsions and transitional challenges like parenthood, camp, college or graduate school that affect adolescents, adults and families.
Change is hard. People often seek psychotherapy around change. They want to change. People in their life want them to change. Or some life change is affecting them in a meaningful way. Often, it's a combination. By working together I can help you in this challenge. I frequently work with adolescents and adults struggling with addiction in themselves or in their families. Many of my patients are addressing anxiety, depression, questions or challenges regarding their sexual orientation, infertility, life transitions, traumatic experiences or eating disorders and other compulsive behaviors. A lot of my patients are college or graduate students.
I specialize in treating behavioral and substance addictions and compulsions and transitional challenges like parenthood, camp, college or graduate school that affect adolescents, adults and families.
Change is hard. People often seek psychotherapy around change. They want to change. People in their life want them to change. Or some life change is affecting them in a meaningful way. Often, it's a combination. By working together I can help you in this challenge. I frequently work with adolescents and adults struggling with addiction in themselves or in their families. Many of my patients are addressing anxiety, depression, questions or challenges regarding their sexual orientation, infertility, life transitions, traumatic experiences or eating disorders and other compulsive behaviors. A lot of my patients are college or graduate students.
(508) 466-6390 View (508) 466-6390
Photo of Lena Wright, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lena Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I have experience working with Individuals, Couples, and Families of First responders and marginalized communities struggling with the challenges of complex trauma impacting mental health, including Anxiety, Depressive disorders, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
I have experience working with Individuals, Couples, and Families of First responders and marginalized communities struggling with the challenges of complex trauma impacting mental health, including Anxiety, Depressive disorders, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
(508) 413-6535 View (508) 413-6535
Photo of Katrina Shepard - Shepard Therapy Associates, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shepard Therapy Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02481
Welcome to our practice! Our passion is helping others improve the quality of their lives. We have specialized training to help folks suffering from PTSD, as well as depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, and grief/loss. Clients describe us as compassionate, nonjudgmental, gentle, and direct.
Welcome to our practice! Our passion is helping others improve the quality of their lives. We have specialized training to help folks suffering from PTSD, as well as depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, and grief/loss. Clients describe us as compassionate, nonjudgmental, gentle, and direct.
(508) 219-6538 View (508) 219-6538
Photo of Matt Green, LMHC, Counselor
Matt Green
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
For years (decades!) I have been treating substance abuse, trauma, anxiety, stress, depression, and other disorders in adolescents and adults at my office in Newton. Helping people move from crisis to long-term healthy living is my passion. I offer individual therapy, group therapy, and families/couples therapy depending upon the need. My general approach is that life is good. It is not always easy, but it is always good. Regardless of the suffering we have faced - and some have faced a lot - or the difficulty of our current circumstances, people can learn to survive and thrive. Helping patients get to that place brings me joy.
For years (decades!) I have been treating substance abuse, trauma, anxiety, stress, depression, and other disorders in adolescents and adults at my office in Newton. Helping people move from crisis to long-term healthy living is my passion. I offer individual therapy, group therapy, and families/couples therapy depending upon the need. My general approach is that life is good. It is not always easy, but it is always good. Regardless of the suffering we have faced - and some have faced a lot - or the difficulty of our current circumstances, people can learn to survive and thrive. Helping patients get to that place brings me joy.
(857) 971-5673 View (857) 971-5673
Photo of Bryan Daniel Koesler, PsyD, Psychologist
Bryan Daniel Koesler
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating addiction; however, a lot of my experience is in working with patients with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and around grief and loss.
At the moment I am providing teletherapy for those interested in this approach. I am licensed in both Florida and Massachusetts and I am currently accepting new patients from either state. I provide therapy using an eclectic and integrative style that best suits the person’s needs. I take a collaborative, strength-based, non-judgmental, and client-centered approach throughout the work with my clients and when deciding upon which tool sets to use in the therapy.
I specialize in treating addiction; however, a lot of my experience is in working with patients with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and around grief and loss.
At the moment I am providing teletherapy for those interested in this approach. I am licensed in both Florida and Massachusetts and I am currently accepting new patients from either state. I provide therapy using an eclectic and integrative style that best suits the person’s needs. I take a collaborative, strength-based, non-judgmental, and client-centered approach throughout the work with my clients and when deciding upon which tool sets to use in the therapy.
(813) 592-8085 View (813) 592-8085
Photo of Beth Gochberg Wilson, LICSW, CSAT, CCPS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Gochberg Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CSAT, CCPS
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
I provide psycho-education on sex addiction, partner trauma, loss, grief, developing empathy, boundaries, safety, trust & secure attachment.
As a certified Sex Addiction & Partner Trauma Specialist, my role is to help you navigate the traumatic effects of relationship betrayal on your road to recovery, growth, healing & discovery. My approach is empathetic, action oriented, strength & trauma based. I'm committed to working with partners, couples & families impacted by sex addiction & betrayal trauma. As a therapist with over 35 years of experience, I work with a range of emotional & behavioral issues. My clients struggle with anxiety, depression, loss, grief, relationship & intimacy issues, marital & family problems. I offer a personalized approach tailored to your needs
I provide psycho-education on sex addiction, partner trauma, loss, grief, developing empathy, boundaries, safety, trust & secure attachment.
As a certified Sex Addiction & Partner Trauma Specialist, my role is to help you navigate the traumatic effects of relationship betrayal on your road to recovery, growth, healing & discovery. My approach is empathetic, action oriented, strength & trauma based. I'm committed to working with partners, couples & families impacted by sex addiction & betrayal trauma. As a therapist with over 35 years of experience, I work with a range of emotional & behavioral issues. My clients struggle with anxiety, depression, loss, grief, relationship & intimacy issues, marital & family problems. I offer a personalized approach tailored to your needs
(857) 226-4283 View (857) 226-4283
Photo of Frances Green, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Frances Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482  (Online Only)
I try to welcome my clients in to my practice by providing a safe, supportive warm, quiet and non-judgmental space. I enjoy working with Individuals, Couples, and Families aged 10 and older. I have treated people with mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Substance and Alcohol Abuse, Grief, Divorce and other major life stressors. I believe that it is important to look at both the difficulties in life and what works in your life.
I try to welcome my clients in to my practice by providing a safe, supportive warm, quiet and non-judgmental space. I enjoy working with Individuals, Couples, and Families aged 10 and older. I have treated people with mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Substance and Alcohol Abuse, Grief, Divorce and other major life stressors. I believe that it is important to look at both the difficulties in life and what works in your life.
(508) 568-6028 View (508) 568-6028
Photo of Dr. Sarah Karytko, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Sarah Karytko
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02482
My particular areas of expertise are working with trauma, substance use, eating disorders and all co-occurring disorders (which can include anxiety, depression, and character issues, among others).
I offer psychotherapy for individual adults 18 and older who may be embarking on life transitions related to professional careers, marriage, and family growth. In my practice I take a collaborative, empowering, and in-depth approach. I facilitate a warm, accepting environment that offers understanding and care, coupled with supportive challenges to help you grow. Whether you are seeking therapy to better manage current life stressors, address long-term issues, or improve your life experience, together we can develop an approach to fit your needs.
My particular areas of expertise are working with trauma, substance use, eating disorders and all co-occurring disorders (which can include anxiety, depression, and character issues, among others).
I offer psychotherapy for individual adults 18 and older who may be embarking on life transitions related to professional careers, marriage, and family growth. In my practice I take a collaborative, empowering, and in-depth approach. I facilitate a warm, accepting environment that offers understanding and care, coupled with supportive challenges to help you grow. Whether you are seeking therapy to better manage current life stressors, address long-term issues, or improve your life experience, together we can develop an approach to fit your needs.
View
Photo of Selina Lang, LMHC, Counselor
Selina Lang
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I am an independent Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Massachusetts. I received my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Art Therapy from Lesley University. I have worked with adolescents and adults in a multitude of settings. I have extensive experience working with individuals having difficulty navigating LGBTQIA2S+ related challenges, anxiety, depression, substance misuse, low self-esteem, life transitions, and trauma. I am LGBTQIA2S+ affirming and antiracist, and I am dedicated to creating a therapeutic space where clients feel safe and empowered.
I am an independent Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Massachusetts. I received my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Art Therapy from Lesley University. I have worked with adolescents and adults in a multitude of settings. I have extensive experience working with individuals having difficulty navigating LGBTQIA2S+ related challenges, anxiety, depression, substance misuse, low self-esteem, life transitions, and trauma. I am LGBTQIA2S+ affirming and antiracist, and I am dedicated to creating a therapeutic space where clients feel safe and empowered.
(781) 678-7398 View (781) 678-7398
Photo of George E Sawin, LICSW, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
George E Sawin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, SAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02481
I have significant experience in working with men in their spiritual journey, including those with addictions and a history of incarceration, and I am a DOT qualified Substance Abuse Professional.
Yes I'm accepting new clients and referrals. I'm a Husband, Dad and Grandpa and employ those life's lessons, as well as my professional training and experience to help couples and single adults get what they want out of life. My approach is straight forward and solution focused to that objective. As a former police officer, I bring a keen insight to the lives, experiences and challenges that law enforcement families experience. Clients wishing to come to a deeper understanding of themselves, their spirituality and their relationships will enjoy the real life, honest and to the heart approach of my practice.e
I have significant experience in working with men in their spiritual journey, including those with addictions and a history of incarceration, and I am a DOT qualified Substance Abuse Professional.
Yes I'm accepting new clients and referrals. I'm a Husband, Dad and Grandpa and employ those life's lessons, as well as my professional training and experience to help couples and single adults get what they want out of life. My approach is straight forward and solution focused to that objective. As a former police officer, I bring a keen insight to the lives, experiences and challenges that law enforcement families experience. Clients wishing to come to a deeper understanding of themselves, their spirituality and their relationships will enjoy the real life, honest and to the heart approach of my practice.e
(781) 366-0615 View (781) 366-0615
Photo of Irena Cafasso, LMHC, Counselor
Irena Cafasso
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482  (Online Only)
My areas of specialization include Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders/Body image, Grief/Loss, Addiction, as well as Trauma.
I offer a warm, compassionate and approachable environment with hope that each client has chance to be exactly who they are in the moment. I give each client my fullest, as I believe the power of being truly heard and seen without judgement. I believe that therapy is not necessarily about trying to fix oneself or fix one’s life, but an act of self-care. And, that increased self-awareness and self-compassion, both greatly contribute to healthier life and inner peace.
My areas of specialization include Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders/Body image, Grief/Loss, Addiction, as well as Trauma.
I offer a warm, compassionate and approachable environment with hope that each client has chance to be exactly who they are in the moment. I give each client my fullest, as I believe the power of being truly heard and seen without judgement. I believe that therapy is not necessarily about trying to fix oneself or fix one’s life, but an act of self-care. And, that increased self-awareness and self-compassion, both greatly contribute to healthier life and inner peace.
(339) 218-3448 View (339) 218-3448
Photo of Michael Grassa, LMHC, Counselor
Michael Grassa
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who values individualized, person-centered psychotherapy where the therapeutic relationship is the catalyst for change, growth, and healing. I have worked with varying age groups across residential, in-home, and outpatient settings. I specialize in treating adolescents, young adults, and adults struggling with OCD, substance use, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem issues, relationship challenges, and difficult life circumstances.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who values individualized, person-centered psychotherapy where the therapeutic relationship is the catalyst for change, growth, and healing. I have worked with varying age groups across residential, in-home, and outpatient settings. I specialize in treating adolescents, young adults, and adults struggling with OCD, substance use, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem issues, relationship challenges, and difficult life circumstances.
(781) 650-8194 View (781) 650-8194
Photo of Marisa Greaves, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marisa Greaves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
Meet Marisa, a compassionate and dedicated therapist with a Master’s degree in Social Work from Simmons University, graduating in 2019. With a passion for helping individuals improve their mental health and overall wellbeing, Marisa has extensive experience working with adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD and substance use disorders in both outpatient clinics and medical settings. Throughout her career, Marisa has demonstrated a commitment to providing exceptional care to her clients. She understands that each person’s experience is unique and tailors her treatment approach to meet the individual needs of each client.
Meet Marisa, a compassionate and dedicated therapist with a Master’s degree in Social Work from Simmons University, graduating in 2019. With a passion for helping individuals improve their mental health and overall wellbeing, Marisa has extensive experience working with adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD and substance use disorders in both outpatient clinics and medical settings. Throughout her career, Marisa has demonstrated a commitment to providing exceptional care to her clients. She understands that each person’s experience is unique and tailors her treatment approach to meet the individual needs of each client.
(339) 329-9936 View (339) 329-9936
Photo of W Rachel Krenis, MA, LMHC, Counselor
W Rachel Krenis
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am qualified and passionate about treating a variety of mental health concerns such as Anxiety and Depression, Family and Relationship Stress, Eating Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Grief and Life Transitional Support, Parenting Support, Women's Issues such as body image concerns, in addition to Substance Abuse Support.
Are you looking for culturally sensitive, creative therapy? I provide culturally sensitive support to individuals seeking virtual counseling for depression, anxiety, transitions, inner peace-finding, and life coaching and planning. I help my clients feel more comfortable within their own bodies and life. I specialize in women's issues, stress and relationship issues. I also support art therapy and helping clients create safe comfortable spaces for everyday living through home design planning. I also provide support to other mental health LMHC professionals who need supervision towards licensure.
I am qualified and passionate about treating a variety of mental health concerns such as Anxiety and Depression, Family and Relationship Stress, Eating Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Grief and Life Transitional Support, Parenting Support, Women's Issues such as body image concerns, in addition to Substance Abuse Support.
Are you looking for culturally sensitive, creative therapy? I provide culturally sensitive support to individuals seeking virtual counseling for depression, anxiety, transitions, inner peace-finding, and life coaching and planning. I help my clients feel more comfortable within their own bodies and life. I specialize in women's issues, stress and relationship issues. I also support art therapy and helping clients create safe comfortable spaces for everyday living through home design planning. I also provide support to other mental health LMHC professionals who need supervision towards licensure.
(774) 479-4199 View (774) 479-4199
Photo of Jeff Levin, MAT, MSW
Jeff Levin
MAT, MSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
I offer home-based life coaching for teens, 20-somethings, athletes, adults, and their families in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and beyond. I work with clients at home in a positive, flexible, proactive way, emphasizing measurable, practical, and sustainable change. My approach is relaxed, non-hierarchical, and results-oriented. Although I also work with adults, I primarily help teens and 20-somethings, from kids who lack confidence and/are overly stressed or anxious to those with athletic/academic performance issues or who are really acting out, having issues with anger, substance abuse, school refusal and the like.
I offer home-based life coaching for teens, 20-somethings, athletes, adults, and their families in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and beyond. I work with clients at home in a positive, flexible, proactive way, emphasizing measurable, practical, and sustainable change. My approach is relaxed, non-hierarchical, and results-oriented. Although I also work with adults, I primarily help teens and 20-somethings, from kids who lack confidence and/are overly stressed or anxious to those with athletic/academic performance issues or who are really acting out, having issues with anger, substance abuse, school refusal and the like.
(617) 936-8728 View (617) 936-8728
Photo of Charles Glazier, LICSW, DCSW, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charles Glazier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, DCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
If you suffer with trauma, addiction, family strife, or chronic health problems, you will get effective and respectful help here.
I have been a therapist for 35 years. I offer psychotherapy without the psycho-babble, liberating people of any age to use their common sense and their family's love to make the most of life's opportunities. I am known for my warmth and humor, my capacity to be direct, and my heart-felt attention to your own experience and concern for your own needs.
If you suffer with trauma, addiction, family strife, or chronic health problems, you will get effective and respectful help here.
I have been a therapist for 35 years. I offer psychotherapy without the psycho-babble, liberating people of any age to use their common sense and their family's love to make the most of life's opportunities. I am known for my warmth and humor, my capacity to be direct, and my heart-felt attention to your own experience and concern for your own needs.
(617) 751-6441 View (617) 751-6441
Photo of Lia Humphrey, LICSW, EMDR, KAP, IFS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lia Humphrey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR, KAP, IFS
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02181
I am an EMDR, KAP, IFS trained therapist, versed in the treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety and addiction.
I provide the framework of a safe and trusting therapy relationship, my clients gain the understanding and skills needed to make changes toward a more fulfilling life. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, internal family systems, ketamine assisted psychotherapy along with other behavioral interventions to help clients reach their goal. My clients have described me as warm, open, easy to talk with and respectful. I offer weekly sessions and three day intensives. I’m happy to answer any questions you may have.
I am an EMDR, KAP, IFS trained therapist, versed in the treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety and addiction.
I provide the framework of a safe and trusting therapy relationship, my clients gain the understanding and skills needed to make changes toward a more fulfilling life. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, internal family systems, ketamine assisted psychotherapy along with other behavioral interventions to help clients reach their goal. My clients have described me as warm, open, easy to talk with and respectful. I offer weekly sessions and three day intensives. I’m happy to answer any questions you may have.
(508) 214-4542 View (508) 214-4542
Photo of Andrew D Kang, JD, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrew D Kang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
Andy specializes in treating substance abuse and addiction, mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar disorder, as well as relationship, couples and family issues.
Boston Professionals Counseling, LLC is a private psychotherapy practice specializing in helping professionals with the unique challenges they face. We have a critical understanding of the stresses and pressures professionals face because we've been there. We know what it's like to face a deadline, to make sacrifices, and to juggle the simultaneous responsibilities of work and life. This first hand experience of life in the corporate world distinguishes us from other therapy practices, from the way we analyze issues, to our commitment to client privacy. We help you make the case for wellbeing.
Andy specializes in treating substance abuse and addiction, mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar disorder, as well as relationship, couples and family issues.
Boston Professionals Counseling, LLC is a private psychotherapy practice specializing in helping professionals with the unique challenges they face. We have a critical understanding of the stresses and pressures professionals face because we've been there. We know what it's like to face a deadline, to make sacrifices, and to juggle the simultaneous responsibilities of work and life. This first hand experience of life in the corporate world distinguishes us from other therapy practices, from the way we analyze issues, to our commitment to client privacy. We help you make the case for wellbeing.
(617) 300-0453 View (617) 300-0453
Photo of Burgess G Brown, LCSAC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Burgess G Brown
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
With a Master of Science degree in Clinical Professional Counseling and twenty plus years in substance abuse therapy, I am prepared to aid in helping you move toward recovery.
Have substances caused so much harm in your life they could be destroying what you've worked so hard for? Have others commented on behaviors that keep you from keeping family, employment and other obligations? Has your quality of life fallen lower than you may want to admit? Have you tried in the past, possibly dedicating a month or more to inpatient treatment, only to give in again. Tired and scared of what may be next? Addiction is a serious problem that requires professional intervention.
With a Master of Science degree in Clinical Professional Counseling and twenty plus years in substance abuse therapy, I am prepared to aid in helping you move toward recovery.
Have substances caused so much harm in your life they could be destroying what you've worked so hard for? Have others commented on behaviors that keep you from keeping family, employment and other obligations? Has your quality of life fallen lower than you may want to admit? Have you tried in the past, possibly dedicating a month or more to inpatient treatment, only to give in again. Tired and scared of what may be next? Addiction is a serious problem that requires professional intervention.
(508) 388-5355 View (508) 388-5355
Photo of Jane Mitchell, LMHC, LADC, Counselor
Jane Mitchell
Counselor, LMHC, LADC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients- Telehealth services - Providing counseling services. Expertise in cognitive behavior therapy and substance abuse issues. Educational testing services, (cognitive, socio-emotional, and achievement testing)
Accepting new clients- Telehealth services - Providing counseling services. Expertise in cognitive behavior therapy and substance abuse issues. Educational testing services, (cognitive, socio-emotional, and achievement testing)
(774) 541-1146 View (774) 541-1146
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.