Addiction Therapists in Lake Elmo, MN
![Photo of Jason Walter, MA, LPCC, LADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41777cee-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you’re ready to improve your life, then I am the one to lead you there. Having years of experience as both a client and a clinician, I am very familiar with the process of change and I am well equipped to make it happen. I've helped guide people through issues of simple depression all the way to complex PTSD. I have extensive experience dealing with criminality, all forms of abuse, addiction, and most mental disorders. My blend of psychodynamic education and life experience have suited me well in this field.
If you’re ready to improve your life, then I am the one to lead you there. Having years of experience as both a client and a clinician, I am very familiar with the process of change and I am well equipped to make it happen. I've helped guide people through issues of simple depression all the way to complex PTSD. I have extensive experience dealing with criminality, all forms of abuse, addiction, and most mental disorders. My blend of psychodynamic education and life experience have suited me well in this field.
![Photo of Dr. Margit Swanson, PsyD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ad13d1a7-57cd-4bcc-93e3-2887ca14d6ef/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that growth and change are always possible, and I am here to help guide clients in their unique journey. Whether you are struggling with issues related to trauma, addiction, feelings of sadness, self-doubt, shame, guilt, or any other life/situational stress, recovery is ALWAYS possible and there is ALWAYS hope. I use science based treatments and assessments tailored to your individual needs so you can heal and learn to reclaim your life in a safe, non-judgmental, supportive therapy environment.
I believe that growth and change are always possible, and I am here to help guide clients in their unique journey. Whether you are struggling with issues related to trauma, addiction, feelings of sadness, self-doubt, shame, guilt, or any other life/situational stress, recovery is ALWAYS possible and there is ALWAYS hope. I use science based treatments and assessments tailored to your individual needs so you can heal and learn to reclaim your life in a safe, non-judgmental, supportive therapy environment.
![Photo of Amelia (Mia) Paquin, PhD, LP, E-Psprt, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44f61605-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Routinely, I help clients with adjustment/stress, depression/bipolar, anxiety, OCD/hoarding, parenting, relationship problems, trauma, and health psychology (addiction, TBI, women's health).
I believe life's challenges are opportunities for us to grow as human beings. Whether you or a family member are struggling with an old problem that keeps coming back or facing an entirely new problem, there is hope. I use research based assessments and treatments to help you or your family member overcome these concerns and thrive in your life.
Routinely, I help clients with adjustment/stress, depression/bipolar, anxiety, OCD/hoarding, parenting, relationship problems, trauma, and health psychology (addiction, TBI, women's health).
I believe life's challenges are opportunities for us to grow as human beings. Whether you or a family member are struggling with an old problem that keeps coming back or facing an entirely new problem, there is hope. I use research based assessments and treatments to help you or your family member overcome these concerns and thrive in your life.
![Photo of Alex Maas, MA, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27879912-3f39-4cbf-a226-d50a87b1847e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I just opened up some in-person availability in my new office, and have virtual availability! Your goals are my goals. Let's work together to learn, grow, and collaborate to change the way that life feels for you - so that you can become your best self and change your relationship with the world around you. At times, my role may be a listener; at times, a guide. No matter what, I will always be a compassionate, non-judgmental, an attuned ally, to support your mosaic of healing. I work with all 13+ years old. Check out my website, WWW.AlexMaasLPCC.com for much more information. I am here for you. Please reach out with any questions!
I just opened up some in-person availability in my new office, and have virtual availability! Your goals are my goals. Let's work together to learn, grow, and collaborate to change the way that life feels for you - so that you can become your best self and change your relationship with the world around you. At times, my role may be a listener; at times, a guide. No matter what, I will always be a compassionate, non-judgmental, an attuned ally, to support your mosaic of healing. I work with all 13+ years old. Check out my website, WWW.AlexMaasLPCC.com for much more information. I am here for you. Please reach out with any questions!
![Photo of Denise Zajac - Twin Cities Mental Health & Couples Center, MAT, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f7d657c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Twin Cities Mental Health & Couples Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAT, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Elmo, MN 55042
I work collaboratively with individuals, couples, & families to help them cultivate a deeper self-awareness, discover new ways of expression, transform dysfunctional patterns, have more satisfying relationships and ensue a more meaningful life. Research has shown having purpose and meaning in life increases overall wellbeing and life satisfaction, improves mental and physical health, enhances resiliency and self-esteem, and decreases the chances of depression.
I work collaboratively with individuals, couples, & families to help them cultivate a deeper self-awareness, discover new ways of expression, transform dysfunctional patterns, have more satisfying relationships and ensue a more meaningful life. Research has shown having purpose and meaning in life increases overall wellbeing and life satisfaction, improves mental and physical health, enhances resiliency and self-esteem, and decreases the chances of depression.
![Photo of Kelli Howard, PhD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09e33345-436f-4852-b86d-c4a2c2b5d5d8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelli Howard
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Elmo, MN 55042
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Stillwater-based psychologist who provides individual therapy and psychological testing to teens and adults ages 16 and up. Using a relaxed and non-judgmental style, I help people struggling with mood concerns, relationships, work/school stress, life transitions, and trauma. I provide both traditional talk therapy and more specific trauma therapies, such as Brainspotting and EMDR. I also offer supervision and consultation for pre-licensed counselors and psychologists, as well as psychological testing for ADHD and related concerns.
I am a Stillwater-based psychologist who provides individual therapy and psychological testing to teens and adults ages 16 and up. Using a relaxed and non-judgmental style, I help people struggling with mood concerns, relationships, work/school stress, life transitions, and trauma. I provide both traditional talk therapy and more specific trauma therapies, such as Brainspotting and EMDR. I also offer supervision and consultation for pre-licensed counselors and psychologists, as well as psychological testing for ADHD and related concerns.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Melanie Perrin - MA Perrin Recovery Services, LLC, MA, ICS, CSAC, LADC, SAP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4899b636-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
MA Perrin Recovery Services, LLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, ICS, CSAC, LADC, SAP
Verified Verified
Stillwater, MN 55082
I am the owner of MA Perrin Recovery Services, LLC and author of "Standing Back Up Against Addiction". No one chooses to be an addict or intentionally self-sabotages by continuing to relapse. Addiction is a horrific disease that takes you away from who you are and is painful. Do not give up on yourself, believe in yourself, continue to reach out and get the help you deserve. With a Masters in Addiction Counseling and 44 years sober I will work alongside you to help you get your life back.
I am the owner of MA Perrin Recovery Services, LLC and author of "Standing Back Up Against Addiction". No one chooses to be an addict or intentionally self-sabotages by continuing to relapse. Addiction is a horrific disease that takes you away from who you are and is painful. Do not give up on yourself, believe in yourself, continue to reach out and get the help you deserve. With a Masters in Addiction Counseling and 44 years sober I will work alongside you to help you get your life back.
![Photo of Kelly R Volkmann, LICSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4528de3e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our specialties include Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, PTSD, Dissociation, Grief, Stress Management Difficulties, and Substance Use Disorders .
Transformation happens within to create the life and freedom desired. For mental health and addictions, evidence based and wholistic practices are used within our clinic to produce desired change. Our mission is to provide a place of wellness and healing partnering with each client to provide individualized care in a safe and supportive environment, free of judgement. Sometimes past and present experiences form unhealthy beliefs, coping mechanisms, and relationship dynamics that get in the way of healing and living out your true potential of leading a life of joy, peace, and balance.
Our specialties include Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, PTSD, Dissociation, Grief, Stress Management Difficulties, and Substance Use Disorders .
Transformation happens within to create the life and freedom desired. For mental health and addictions, evidence based and wholistic practices are used within our clinic to produce desired change. Our mission is to provide a place of wellness and healing partnering with each client to provide individualized care in a safe and supportive environment, free of judgement. Sometimes past and present experiences form unhealthy beliefs, coping mechanisms, and relationship dynamics that get in the way of healing and living out your true potential of leading a life of joy, peace, and balance.
![Photo of Jacqueline Schultz, BA, LADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71539d65-ad0d-4a61-bdb2-5f5d1def16e9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline Schultz
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, BA, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbury, MN 55125
I have a passion for working with clients who struggle with substance use issues. I believe building rapport and using a client-centered approach help clients the most.
I have a passion for working with clients who struggle with substance use issues. I believe building rapport and using a client-centered approach help clients the most.
![Photo of Cathleen Harvieux - Canvas Health, Stillwater, LADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b6d758d-63f6-488c-b9a8-d2717027f04b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our services and programs: Substance use assessment; Substance use disorder treatment for ages 13+ specializing in those with substance use and metal health disorders.
Our caring clinicians help children, adolescents, adults, and families who struggle with mental illness and substance use disorders by providing exceptional clinical care. For more than 50 years, Canvas Health has been dedicated to providing hope, healing, and recovery to the lives of people we serve.
Our services and programs: Substance use assessment; Substance use disorder treatment for ages 13+ specializing in those with substance use and metal health disorders.
Our caring clinicians help children, adolescents, adults, and families who struggle with mental illness and substance use disorders by providing exceptional clinical care. For more than 50 years, Canvas Health has been dedicated to providing hope, healing, and recovery to the lives of people we serve.
![Photo of Melinda R Coscarelli, PhD, LPCC, LADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eccc2e6f-2660-4c80-8965-7ff82a7fc053/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you ready for something better in your life but don't know where to start? Welcome to the next generation in Therapy and Treatment Programming! We are a group of specialized therapists who get right to the root of the issue, helping you feel better much quicker than some of the traditional therapies. We offer evidenced based neuro-science techniques that are effective for treating everything from trauma, PTSD, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, substance abuse and several other concerns. We are warm, welcoming, compassionate and highly skilled. We take good care of our clients, and we will take good care of YOU!
Are you ready for something better in your life but don't know where to start? Welcome to the next generation in Therapy and Treatment Programming! We are a group of specialized therapists who get right to the root of the issue, helping you feel better much quicker than some of the traditional therapies. We offer evidenced based neuro-science techniques that are effective for treating everything from trauma, PTSD, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, substance abuse and several other concerns. We are warm, welcoming, compassionate and highly skilled. We take good care of our clients, and we will take good care of YOU!
![Photo of Erin Michelle Buck, MA, LPCC, LADC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5fb23f5-c40a-449f-81fc-dbfd21d3826a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Michelle Buck
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakdale, MN 55128
As a dedicated mental health therapist, I specialize in providing compassionate care for individuals facing trauma, addiction, anxiety, and depression disorders. With a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel empowered to explore their thoughts and emotions. My approach is rooted in empathy and evidence-based practices, ensuring that each person receives personalized and effective treatment tailored to their unique needs.
As a dedicated mental health therapist, I specialize in providing compassionate care for individuals facing trauma, addiction, anxiety, and depression disorders. With a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel empowered to explore their thoughts and emotions. My approach is rooted in empathy and evidence-based practices, ensuring that each person receives personalized and effective treatment tailored to their unique needs.
![Photo of Jane Gallagher, MA, LADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7eaf25ca-cb30-4316-a516-c678a7401289/1/320x400.jpeg)
Open for New Clients. Clients seeking therapy can come as they are. It is my goal to have the education and tools to facilitate their process. I work with individual adults, teens, and children in a variety of areas, including mental health therapy, substance use disorder, EMDR trauma therapy, hypnotherapy, quitting smoking, phobias, confidence, and equine-assisted therapy. I have been a life coach and hypnotist for 11 years, substance use disorder counselor for 5 years, and I am a pre-licensed mental health therapist under supervision.
Open for New Clients. Clients seeking therapy can come as they are. It is my goal to have the education and tools to facilitate their process. I work with individual adults, teens, and children in a variety of areas, including mental health therapy, substance use disorder, EMDR trauma therapy, hypnotherapy, quitting smoking, phobias, confidence, and equine-assisted therapy. I have been a life coach and hypnotist for 11 years, substance use disorder counselor for 5 years, and I am a pre-licensed mental health therapist under supervision.
![Photo of Terry M Post, MS, LPCC, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bc3721f-4b9d-4065-94ac-7c1027d3eb60/3/320x400.jpeg)
I help people overcome life’s challenges to grow and find their desired happiness. I have a long history of working with those struggling with addiction as well as concerns related to sex and intimacy. From a mental health perspective, I work with clients who have anxiety, depression, trauma, intimacy, relationship problems, and some personality disorders. I believe that our mental health, compulsive behaviors, relationships, sex, and intimacy all interact and influence one another to create who and how we show up today. I have an extensive history of working with individuals in the LGBT+ community and specialize in treating Chemsex
I help people overcome life’s challenges to grow and find their desired happiness. I have a long history of working with those struggling with addiction as well as concerns related to sex and intimacy. From a mental health perspective, I work with clients who have anxiety, depression, trauma, intimacy, relationship problems, and some personality disorders. I believe that our mental health, compulsive behaviors, relationships, sex, and intimacy all interact and influence one another to create who and how we show up today. I have an extensive history of working with individuals in the LGBT+ community and specialize in treating Chemsex
![Photo of Jacob Spehar, MA, LPCC, LADC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b20448f8-2272-499c-b613-6b6324ff2ce8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a Master's level Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor who specializes in mental health and addiction.
It takes a lot of courage to reach out for help. You may be struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, job stress, grief, trauma related issues, chronic pain or addiction. I'm here to support you by developing a trusting relationship as you navigate the challenges of life. Being in the field for over a decade has provided me skills and insight to handle a multitude of issues. The experiences in your life are unique to you, which is why I strive to have a person-centered approach to empower you so you can reach your goal.
I'm a Master's level Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor who specializes in mental health and addiction.
It takes a lot of courage to reach out for help. You may be struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, job stress, grief, trauma related issues, chronic pain or addiction. I'm here to support you by developing a trusting relationship as you navigate the challenges of life. Being in the field for over a decade has provided me skills and insight to handle a multitude of issues. The experiences in your life are unique to you, which is why I strive to have a person-centered approach to empower you so you can reach your goal.
![Photo of Nancy Simcox, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75d59958-0a52-4201-8f93-a4769436d140/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with individuals and families who struggle with patterns of addiction and symptoms of trauma working from a systemic lens. I also work with couples and families struggling with communication, intergenerational trauma, and adjustment issues utilizing systems theory, and offer family play therapy. I view the whole person meeting you where you are in your life journey, no matter the circumstances, to help serve you as you seek to make sense and discover new meaning for yourself.
I specialize in working with individuals and families who struggle with patterns of addiction and symptoms of trauma working from a systemic lens. I also work with couples and families struggling with communication, intergenerational trauma, and adjustment issues utilizing systems theory, and offer family play therapy. I view the whole person meeting you where you are in your life journey, no matter the circumstances, to help serve you as you seek to make sense and discover new meaning for yourself.
![Photo of Mikke Papes, MSW, LGSW, LADC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27a43927-89e4-4773-b9f9-c0a42504eded/3/320x400.png)
Mikke Papes
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LGSW, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Saint Paul, MN 55075
My services cover a wide range of areas including anxiety, depression, systemic issues, addiction, emotional navigation, women's issues, anger management, stress relief, self-esteem, men's issues, values and purpose, breaking free from the shackles of perfectionism, and fostering self-acceptance.
Immediate availability. You've carried the weight of your struggles alone for far too long. The mere thought of reaching out for help, expressing your needs, and acknowledging your worth as a person feels like an insurmountable hurdle! Anxiety and depression seem to have a firm grip, distorting your perspective. Navigating through emotions has become a labyrinth, and anger simmers beneath the surface. The pressures of life have left you seeking effective stress management strategies. Self-esteem feels elusive, and issues related to masculinity and femininity weigh heavily on your shoulders. Perfectionism has crushed self-acceptance.
My services cover a wide range of areas including anxiety, depression, systemic issues, addiction, emotional navigation, women's issues, anger management, stress relief, self-esteem, men's issues, values and purpose, breaking free from the shackles of perfectionism, and fostering self-acceptance.
Immediate availability. You've carried the weight of your struggles alone for far too long. The mere thought of reaching out for help, expressing your needs, and acknowledging your worth as a person feels like an insurmountable hurdle! Anxiety and depression seem to have a firm grip, distorting your perspective. Navigating through emotions has become a labyrinth, and anger simmers beneath the surface. The pressures of life have left you seeking effective stress management strategies. Self-esteem feels elusive, and issues related to masculinity and femininity weigh heavily on your shoulders. Perfectionism has crushed self-acceptance.
![Photo of Dr. Kabita Roy, PsyD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84a357f7-82a7-4928-8759-13a3c914a166/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kabita Roy
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55115 (Online Only)
I am experienced in helping clients with addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders.
Your path to health and happiness emerges through nurturing body, mind, and spirit. As a licensed psychologist, I work with adult clients as they move toward healing from a variety of mental health and life concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, relationship challenges, self esteem issues, academic struggles, life transitions, and cross-cultural dilemmas. In a therapeutic environment of respect and dignity for my clients, I draw upon my clinical experiences in the mental health field as well as my knowledge of research-supported treatments to help individuals achieve the healing and life changes they seek.
I am experienced in helping clients with addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders.
Your path to health and happiness emerges through nurturing body, mind, and spirit. As a licensed psychologist, I work with adult clients as they move toward healing from a variety of mental health and life concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, relationship challenges, self esteem issues, academic struggles, life transitions, and cross-cultural dilemmas. In a therapeutic environment of respect and dignity for my clients, I draw upon my clinical experiences in the mental health field as well as my knowledge of research-supported treatments to help individuals achieve the healing and life changes they seek.
![Photo of Ann L. P. Steely, MSW, LICSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83919aa2-f4e7-4e81-a6d6-50ca81d794d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ann L. P. Steely
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55101
Waitlist for new clients
I treat all major mental health conditions and specialize in working with other mental health and health professionals as well as individuals wanting support around disordered eating, compulsions, problematic substance use, and challenges related to a loved one's substance use.
My name is Ann L. P. Steely and I am a clinical social worker and owner of Heartland Psychotherapy. I specialize in working with adolescents/adults in individual and family therapy. My focus in therapy is on my relationship with you, understanding what you need as an individual, and using this understanding to help you find insight into how to make the changes you want to make in your life. Psychotherapy is a process of working together towards healing and change. I will help you understand yourself authentically and find greater ease through the exploration of your emotional experience, thoughts, behaviors, and relationships.
I treat all major mental health conditions and specialize in working with other mental health and health professionals as well as individuals wanting support around disordered eating, compulsions, problematic substance use, and challenges related to a loved one's substance use.
My name is Ann L. P. Steely and I am a clinical social worker and owner of Heartland Psychotherapy. I specialize in working with adolescents/adults in individual and family therapy. My focus in therapy is on my relationship with you, understanding what you need as an individual, and using this understanding to help you find insight into how to make the changes you want to make in your life. Psychotherapy is a process of working together towards healing and change. I will help you understand yourself authentically and find greater ease through the exploration of your emotional experience, thoughts, behaviors, and relationships.
![Photo of Rebecca Mitchell, MA, LMFT, LADC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cedf0b4-2774-471a-beb0-e074dcda6b9d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Mitchell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Saint Paul, MN 55075
Do you find yourself struggling with daily tasks due to your trauma, anxiety, or substance use? If so I am here to help! Clients come to me looking for a therapist who can provide a safe, supportive, and light setting, while exploring symptoms or experiences. Therapy should be a place where you feel heard and validated in session. Sessions with me are focused on your current needs while challenge thought patterns, beliefs, and better understanding your symptoms. Together, we achieve the growth and healing you need to improve your daily routine, we always go at your pace, never pushing to a place you don’t feel ready to be.
Do you find yourself struggling with daily tasks due to your trauma, anxiety, or substance use? If so I am here to help! Clients come to me looking for a therapist who can provide a safe, supportive, and light setting, while exploring symptoms or experiences. Therapy should be a place where you feel heard and validated in session. Sessions with me are focused on your current needs while challenge thought patterns, beliefs, and better understanding your symptoms. Together, we achieve the growth and healing you need to improve your daily routine, we always go at your pace, never pushing to a place you don’t feel ready to be.
See more therapy options for Lake Elmo
Nearby Addiction Therapists Searches for Lake Elmo
- Cottage Grove
- Little Canada
- Mahtomedi
- Maplewood
- Oakdale
- Roseville
- Saint Paul
- South Saint Paul
- Stillwater
- West Saint Paul
- White Bear Lake
- Woodbury
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.