Addiction Therapists in Montclair, NJ

Photo of Alyssa Goldberg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa Goldberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I am particularly suited to help clients dealing with depression, anxiety, substance use issues/ addictive disorders, eating disorders, and OCD.
If you’ve made it to this profile, you can take a deep breath and relax a little because you’ve taken the first step in your healing journey. If you've noticed you're more anxious than you'd like to be or more depressed than seems healthy to you, therapy can be a helpful way to let someone else provide guidance and help you navigate the difficult things life has thrown your way. Therapy can create space for you to work through the intrusive thoughts, feelings, and obsessions that are impacting your life.
I am particularly suited to help clients dealing with depression, anxiety, substance use issues/ addictive disorders, eating disorders, and OCD.
If you’ve made it to this profile, you can take a deep breath and relax a little because you’ve taken the first step in your healing journey. If you've noticed you're more anxious than you'd like to be or more depressed than seems healthy to you, therapy can be a helpful way to let someone else provide guidance and help you navigate the difficult things life has thrown your way. Therapy can create space for you to work through the intrusive thoughts, feelings, and obsessions that are impacting your life.
(973) 566-5621 View (973) 566-5621
Photo of Alexandra DeGirolamo, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexandra DeGirolamo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
My goal is to assist you in tackling the presenting issue whether it be parenting skills, family dynamics, addiction, mood, coping skills, or other by utilizing a variety of techniques.
Hi! My name is Alex. I am a dual licensed LPC, or Licensed Professional Counselor and LCADC, Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I am licensed and practice in NJ. I have been in the field in some capacity for over a decade. I have worked in many modalities of treatment, with diverse populations ranging in age, presenting topic, race, socio-economic status, etc. I work with clients ranging in age from 6-65.
My goal is to assist you in tackling the presenting issue whether it be parenting skills, family dynamics, addiction, mood, coping skills, or other by utilizing a variety of techniques.
Hi! My name is Alex. I am a dual licensed LPC, or Licensed Professional Counselor and LCADC, Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I am licensed and practice in NJ. I have been in the field in some capacity for over a decade. I have worked in many modalities of treatment, with diverse populations ranging in age, presenting topic, race, socio-economic status, etc. I work with clients ranging in age from 6-65.
(973) 576-5994 View (973) 576-5994
Photo of Jamel Porter, LCADC , Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Jamel Porter
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCADC
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
I provide counseling for individuals with a history of substance use disorder and who currently identify with the disease of addiction.
The feeling when you can’t change a difficult situation can be paralyzing. However, feelings are not facts. I believe that therapy can provide you with the perspective and tools that can be life changing. Particularly with addiction, the understanding of what contributes to what now holds you captive can be the start that one needs to be liberated.
I provide counseling for individuals with a history of substance use disorder and who currently identify with the disease of addiction.
The feeling when you can’t change a difficult situation can be paralyzing. However, feelings are not facts. I believe that therapy can provide you with the perspective and tools that can be life changing. Particularly with addiction, the understanding of what contributes to what now holds you captive can be the start that one needs to be liberated.
(862) 263-7310 View (862) 263-7310
Photo of Lori A Harris, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori A Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
I have advanced training in PTSD, grief, disaster mental health, addiction, family counseling/mediation.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Perhaps you are in a crisis, confronting a life transition (divorce, retirement, death, illness, empty nest, new relationship), having difficulty coping with work stress, using/abusing substances, or "feeling stuck" and unable to make positive life changes. I believe that most of us have blind spots - emotional patterns or behaviors that can get in the way of our healing or fully exploring life’s challenges and opportunities. My role is to provide clinical insight and guidance that is collaborative and respectful, supporting your unique journey toward recovery and growth.
I have advanced training in PTSD, grief, disaster mental health, addiction, family counseling/mediation.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Perhaps you are in a crisis, confronting a life transition (divorce, retirement, death, illness, empty nest, new relationship), having difficulty coping with work stress, using/abusing substances, or "feeling stuck" and unable to make positive life changes. I believe that most of us have blind spots - emotional patterns or behaviors that can get in the way of our healing or fully exploring life’s challenges and opportunities. My role is to provide clinical insight and guidance that is collaborative and respectful, supporting your unique journey toward recovery and growth.
(973) 528-1852 View (973) 528-1852
Photo of Cathy Roberts, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cathy Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07043  (Online Only)
I have specialized experience working with addiction and codependency as well as post graduate training and experience in couples therapy.
As a therapist, I am interested in your thoughts and feelings as well as your beliefs. I am equally interested in the experiences you had growing up in your family. I look at you both as an individual and as a member of a multigenerational family. I believe past experiences shape the core beliefs we have about ourselves and the world and influence the choices we make in the present. Although therapy often focuses on problems, I believe that good therapy also identifies and builds on a client's existing strengths and resources. Good therapy is a respectful collaboration.
I have specialized experience working with addiction and codependency as well as post graduate training and experience in couples therapy.
As a therapist, I am interested in your thoughts and feelings as well as your beliefs. I am equally interested in the experiences you had growing up in your family. I look at you both as an individual and as a member of a multigenerational family. I believe past experiences shape the core beliefs we have about ourselves and the world and influence the choices we make in the present. Although therapy often focuses on problems, I believe that good therapy also identifies and builds on a client's existing strengths and resources. Good therapy is a respectful collaboration.
(973) 556-4579 View (973) 556-4579
Photo of Tricia DiMarco-Perez, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tricia DiMarco-Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I work with individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, addiction, and trauma.
Life events often create mental and emotional blocks that keep you feeling stuck. Together, we will identify issues, unprocessed memories and experiences, dysfunctional patterns of behavior, maladaptive coping mechanisms, and other barriers that are preventing you from being where you want to be. We will start with where you are right now and work towards an overall improved sense of emotional well-being.
I work with individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, addiction, and trauma.
Life events often create mental and emotional blocks that keep you feeling stuck. Together, we will identify issues, unprocessed memories and experiences, dysfunctional patterns of behavior, maladaptive coping mechanisms, and other barriers that are preventing you from being where you want to be. We will start with where you are right now and work towards an overall improved sense of emotional well-being.
(551) 203-7060 View (551) 203-7060
Photo of Amanda Marie Aster-McKenna, PsyD, Psychologist
Amanda Marie Aster-McKenna
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in the treatment of adults suffering from anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, & substance abuse difficulties. I work from an evidence-based framework with emphasis on mindfulness practice, acceptance of difficult internal experiences, and valued-based living to increase quality of life. This approach to treatment is known as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). ACT proposes that painful human experiences and life's struggles are all inevitable, and teaches how to learn acceptance of inevitable human difficulties and continuing to live a rich and meaningful life.
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in the treatment of adults suffering from anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, & substance abuse difficulties. I work from an evidence-based framework with emphasis on mindfulness practice, acceptance of difficult internal experiences, and valued-based living to increase quality of life. This approach to treatment is known as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). ACT proposes that painful human experiences and life's struggles are all inevitable, and teaches how to learn acceptance of inevitable human difficulties and continuing to live a rich and meaningful life.
(973) 528-7403 View (973) 528-7403
Photo of Doug Reichert, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Doug Reichert
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
My name is Doug and I think you are making a wonderful decision on taking the first step towards reaching out for support. I have successfully worked as a counselor for 38 years and have also taken advantage of counseling opportunities to better myself. I look forward to meeting you, learning about your hopes and passions and seeing if we can work together to help you feel better and function more effectively. I am skilled at working with clients who struggle with handling stress, depression, anxiety or substance use issues.
My name is Doug and I think you are making a wonderful decision on taking the first step towards reaching out for support. I have successfully worked as a counselor for 38 years and have also taken advantage of counseling opportunities to better myself. I look forward to meeting you, learning about your hopes and passions and seeing if we can work together to help you feel better and function more effectively. I am skilled at working with clients who struggle with handling stress, depression, anxiety or substance use issues.
(973) 446-8185 View (973) 446-8185
Photo of Leo J Sifflet, MA, LPC, Counselor
Leo J Sifflet
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I have been married to my best friend for 40 years and have been blessed with two children (a son and daughter) and two wonderful grandchildren. Since 1989 I have worked throughout the tristate area as a counselor. After many years of working as a life coach and spiritual counselor, I attained a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have worked extensively in the criminal justice system with adults and troubled youth. I specialize in individual/couples therapy as well as addiction, PTSD, anxiety related illnesses and depression. I have learned that every client makes sense if their backstory is understood.
I have been married to my best friend for 40 years and have been blessed with two children (a son and daughter) and two wonderful grandchildren. Since 1989 I have worked throughout the tristate area as a counselor. After many years of working as a life coach and spiritual counselor, I attained a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have worked extensively in the criminal justice system with adults and troubled youth. I specialize in individual/couples therapy as well as addiction, PTSD, anxiety related illnesses and depression. I have learned that every client makes sense if their backstory is understood.
(551) 226-8214 View (551) 226-8214
Photo of Mario Dartayet Rodriguez - Full Heart Recovery, LCSW, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Full Heart Recovery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07043
The goals of our sex addiction therapy program and chemical dependency program is to help clients achieve long lasting sobriety in order to restore and develop healthy relationships and realize their true potential.
At Full Heart Recovery we believe that Sex Addiction, Chemical Dependency and Alcoholism are primary disorders. Addicts and their impacted families are in need of support, expert clinical care and practical tools to remain clean and sober. Utilizing both individual and group therapy in combination with neurofeedback and psychoeducation we address sex addiction and chemical dependency from a biological, social and psychological perspective.
The goals of our sex addiction therapy program and chemical dependency program is to help clients achieve long lasting sobriety in order to restore and develop healthy relationships and realize their true potential.
At Full Heart Recovery we believe that Sex Addiction, Chemical Dependency and Alcoholism are primary disorders. Addicts and their impacted families are in need of support, expert clinical care and practical tools to remain clean and sober. Utilizing both individual and group therapy in combination with neurofeedback and psychoeducation we address sex addiction and chemical dependency from a biological, social and psychological perspective.
(973) 459-4391 View (973) 459-4391
Photo of Lewis C Pagano, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lewis C Pagano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I am an addiction counselor for 40 years.
Talk therapy can help you become your true self. I have worked extensively with adults and adolescents for over 30 years and have a good understanding of childhood issues.I work with individuals and families with a focus on emotions.I believe that all people have resources to solve problems.I am easy to talk to and I have great listening skills.I have worked with individuals who are depressed and with adolescents in public education with great success I also have an extensive background in substance abuse and am certified to work with clients on Suboxone (Buprenorphine) for treatment of opiate addiction.
I am an addiction counselor for 40 years.
Talk therapy can help you become your true self. I have worked extensively with adults and adolescents for over 30 years and have a good understanding of childhood issues.I work with individuals and families with a focus on emotions.I believe that all people have resources to solve problems.I am easy to talk to and I have great listening skills.I have worked with individuals who are depressed and with adolescents in public education with great success I also have an extensive background in substance abuse and am certified to work with clients on Suboxone (Buprenorphine) for treatment of opiate addiction.
(973) 310-2273 View (973) 310-2273
Photo of George Smith, LPC, LCADC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
George Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
Whether its poor mental health, symptoms of poor mental health or addiction.
You have already made the first step in a what can be a very overwhelming process. Deciding to enter therapy and finding the right therapist is difficult. I want to ensure you that I will listen to your issues and help you develop appropriate coping strategies. I will provide a safe environment that promotes a comfortable atmosphere. My goal is to utilize my mental health and addiction experience to ease your pain and increase your well being.
Whether its poor mental health, symptoms of poor mental health or addiction.
You have already made the first step in a what can be a very overwhelming process. Deciding to enter therapy and finding the right therapist is difficult. I want to ensure you that I will listen to your issues and help you develop appropriate coping strategies. I will provide a safe environment that promotes a comfortable atmosphere. My goal is to utilize my mental health and addiction experience to ease your pain and increase your well being.
(973) 620-2967 View (973) 620-2967
Photo of Michael Brown, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with people struggling with substance misuse and other addictive issues.
It’s hard being human. In our short window of time on earth we will have moments of great joy and beauty, but also experiences of sadness, stress, and pain. We are confronted with a difficult problem - how do we deal effectively with a reality that spans all different feelings and experiences? Often we deal with them in ineffective ways that leave us feeling worse off than when we started. There is hope, however. Together we can work together to recognize the patterns you're stuck in, learn skills to manage difficult thoughts and feelings more effectively, and work towards a rich and meaningful life.
I specialize in working with people struggling with substance misuse and other addictive issues.
It’s hard being human. In our short window of time on earth we will have moments of great joy and beauty, but also experiences of sadness, stress, and pain. We are confronted with a difficult problem - how do we deal effectively with a reality that spans all different feelings and experiences? Often we deal with them in ineffective ways that leave us feeling worse off than when we started. There is hope, however. Together we can work together to recognize the patterns you're stuck in, learn skills to manage difficult thoughts and feelings more effectively, and work towards a rich and meaningful life.
(862) 356-5306 View (862) 356-5306
Photo of Kristin Korab Reynolds, LCSW, LCADC, CHHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Korab Reynolds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, CHHC
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
It will be my privilege to assist and guide you on your therapeutic journey. Engaging in therapy can be frightening, but the end result can be extremely rewarding. I offer a safe, supportive, confidential therapeutic environment. As a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselor (LCADC) for the state of New Jersey, I work with individuals, couples, families and offer recovery supportive groups therapy. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, and substance abuse.
It will be my privilege to assist and guide you on your therapeutic journey. Engaging in therapy can be frightening, but the end result can be extremely rewarding. I offer a safe, supportive, confidential therapeutic environment. As a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselor (LCADC) for the state of New Jersey, I work with individuals, couples, families and offer recovery supportive groups therapy. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, and substance abuse.
(973) 905-4408 View (973) 905-4408
Photo of John J Della Penna - Better Days Therapy, LLC, MA, LPC, CBHS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Better Days Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CBHS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Better Days Therapy is a mental health service that provides counseling for adults, adolescents, children, and families. I work with individuals, groups and communities to improve mental health. I examine issues including substance abuse, aging, bullying, anger management, careers, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ issues, self-image, stress and suicide. I help clients define goals, plan action and gain insight into their thought process. I develop therapeutic processes and take a holistic (mind, body, and spirit) approach to mental health care. I will perform crisis intervention and crisis counseling when needed.
Better Days Therapy is a mental health service that provides counseling for adults, adolescents, children, and families. I work with individuals, groups and communities to improve mental health. I examine issues including substance abuse, aging, bullying, anger management, careers, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ issues, self-image, stress and suicide. I help clients define goals, plan action and gain insight into their thought process. I develop therapeutic processes and take a holistic (mind, body, and spirit) approach to mental health care. I will perform crisis intervention and crisis counseling when needed.
(862) 772-8855 View (862) 772-8855
Photo of Elizabeth Chery, LCSW, MS, CASAC-T, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Chery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MS, CASAC-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
• Elizabeth is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Elizabeth has her master’s degree in social work. She has experience working with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, addiction, relationship concerns, and other life experiences. She believes that each person has their own story that has shaped what they are currently experiencing. Through her work, she strives to foster a safe space where clients can tell their story, gain insight into how that has impacted them, and create a new reality that is more fulfilling. Elizabeth purposefully incorporates multicultural concepts into each case, because she feels culture greatly influences
• Elizabeth is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Elizabeth has her master’s degree in social work. She has experience working with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, addiction, relationship concerns, and other life experiences. She believes that each person has their own story that has shaped what they are currently experiencing. Through her work, she strives to foster a safe space where clients can tell their story, gain insight into how that has impacted them, and create a new reality that is more fulfilling. Elizabeth purposefully incorporates multicultural concepts into each case, because she feels culture greatly influences
(929) 205-5198 View (929) 205-5198
Photo of Elanna Spano, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elanna Spano
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
I look for maladaptive patterns (such as addiction, unhealthy relationships, overeating, self-sabotage, etc.
What do you see when you look into the mirror? If you see anything other than exactly who you are or who you want to be, accepting all your flaws for the uniqueness they are meant to be, and find that this is getting in the way of living your best life, you are in the right place. I am a dually licensed Professional Counselor and Drug & Alcohol Counselor with certifications in trauma training. My approach to counseling is to provide the space for you to explore who you are while providing guidance in your journey. This allows you to find the core issues that led to any unhappiness or struggles holding back authentic living.
I look for maladaptive patterns (such as addiction, unhealthy relationships, overeating, self-sabotage, etc.
What do you see when you look into the mirror? If you see anything other than exactly who you are or who you want to be, accepting all your flaws for the uniqueness they are meant to be, and find that this is getting in the way of living your best life, you are in the right place. I am a dually licensed Professional Counselor and Drug & Alcohol Counselor with certifications in trauma training. My approach to counseling is to provide the space for you to explore who you are while providing guidance in your journey. This allows you to find the core issues that led to any unhappiness or struggles holding back authentic living.
(551) 253-6875 View (551) 253-6875
Photo of Jeffrey S Kahn - Summit Psychological Services PA, PhD, CGP, DABPS, Psychologist
Summit Psychological Services PA
Psychologist, PhD, CGP, DABPS
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
With certifications in Applied Positive Psychology, Clinical Hypnotherapy, and the Treatment of Substance Use Disorders (including Nicotine Dependence), Dr.
Jeffrey, S. Kahn, Ph.D., CGP, DABPS, Managing Director of Summit Psychological Services, is a Licensed Psychologist (NJ# 2656) who has been practicing individual, couple and group psychotherapy for thirty years. Dr. Kahn is a Diplomate in Psychotherapy who works with a wide variety of psychological issues of adults and adolescents utilizing an integrative approach which draws on empathy and deep psychodynamic understanding as well as on strength-based and solution- focused approaches which have empirically demonstrated effectiveness.
With certifications in Applied Positive Psychology, Clinical Hypnotherapy, and the Treatment of Substance Use Disorders (including Nicotine Dependence), Dr.
Jeffrey, S. Kahn, Ph.D., CGP, DABPS, Managing Director of Summit Psychological Services, is a Licensed Psychologist (NJ# 2656) who has been practicing individual, couple and group psychotherapy for thirty years. Dr. Kahn is a Diplomate in Psychotherapy who works with a wide variety of psychological issues of adults and adolescents utilizing an integrative approach which draws on empathy and deep psychodynamic understanding as well as on strength-based and solution- focused approaches which have empirically demonstrated effectiveness.
(908) 962-7185 x111 View (908) 962-7185 x111
Photo of Dr. Yaakov Siegel, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Yaakov Siegel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
I'm a Licensed Psychologist committed to guiding individuals towards personal growth and resilience. With almost 2 decades of experience, I've had the privilege of assisting individuals from all walks of life, addressing a wide array of issues. Over the course of my career, I have been privileged to treat individuals and families in private practice, run an addiction facility, served as expert witness in Federal and Civil courts and founded a school for struggling teens.
I'm a Licensed Psychologist committed to guiding individuals towards personal growth and resilience. With almost 2 decades of experience, I've had the privilege of assisting individuals from all walks of life, addressing a wide array of issues. Over the course of my career, I have been privileged to treat individuals and families in private practice, run an addiction facility, served as expert witness in Federal and Civil courts and founded a school for struggling teens.
(848) 278-6145 View (848) 278-6145
Photo of Suzette Sclafani, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzette Sclafani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
I especially enjoy working with people with a history of traumatic experiences, alcohol and substance abuse issues, problem gambling, and mood issues.
I enjoy working with people who know what their needs are, and are aware of some of the factors leading to seeking help. I am interested in partnering with people who are willing to look forward to exploring solutions for their problems.
I especially enjoy working with people with a history of traumatic experiences, alcohol and substance abuse issues, problem gambling, and mood issues.
I enjoy working with people who know what their needs are, and are aware of some of the factors leading to seeking help. I am interested in partnering with people who are willing to look forward to exploring solutions for their problems.
(732) 426-5457 View (732) 426-5457
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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.