Photo of Jennifer Beaton, LMHC, Counselor
Jennifer Beaton
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Elmhurst, NY 11373
I helped people navigate a variety of topics, including anxiety, codependency, substance abuse, relational issues, ADHD, gender/identity exploration, and religious trauma, among others. My ideal client is ready to explore, ask questions, and get to the root of things. They want to improve their relationship with themselves and others. They are an active participant in the therapeutic process and are willing to work with me to explore solutions.
I helped people navigate a variety of topics, including anxiety, codependency, substance abuse, relational issues, ADHD, gender/identity exploration, and religious trauma, among others. My ideal client is ready to explore, ask questions, and get to the root of things. They want to improve their relationship with themselves and others. They are an active participant in the therapeutic process and are willing to work with me to explore solutions.
(929) 460-8714 View (929) 460-8714
Photo of Dr. Brian Freidenberg, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Brian Freidenberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11368
I have been mentored by therapists world renowned for their work in anxiety, addiction, and groups.
Hello! I'm Dr. Brian Freidenberg. In therapy, I place the therapeutic relationship above all else. The relationship is the vehicle for change. I believe that a good therapist listens well; is empathic; and provides a safe, empowering, and judgement-free environment. The client and I form a partnership to help the client navigate this great adventure called life. My primary areas of expertise are ADDICTIONS (e.g., substances, sex, video games, phone, social media), ANXIETY, CHILDHOOD and ADOLESCENCE, COLLEGE students, VETERANS, RELATIONSHIPS, TRAUMA, GROUPS, PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATIONS, and COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY.
I have been mentored by therapists world renowned for their work in anxiety, addiction, and groups.
Hello! I'm Dr. Brian Freidenberg. In therapy, I place the therapeutic relationship above all else. The relationship is the vehicle for change. I believe that a good therapist listens well; is empathic; and provides a safe, empowering, and judgement-free environment. The client and I form a partnership to help the client navigate this great adventure called life. My primary areas of expertise are ADDICTIONS (e.g., substances, sex, video games, phone, social media), ANXIETY, CHILDHOOD and ADOLESCENCE, COLLEGE students, VETERANS, RELATIONSHIPS, TRAUMA, GROUPS, PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATIONS, and COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY.
(518) 348-8689 View (518) 348-8689
Photo of Tantenisha James, LMHC, Counselor
Tantenisha James
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jamaica, NY 11435  (Online Only)
I have worked with people who have negative self-talk, low self-esteem, mood swings, substance use, anxiety, a history of trauma, and a sense of who they are.
I graduated from Pace University with my Master's Degree as a Licensed Mental Health Therapist and Substance Abuse Counselor. I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy as each individual has specific treatment needs as each person's experiences and the emotional impact of those experiences are unique to that individual. This is why my theoretical approach is humanistic and client-centered. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Adler, and Gestalt.
I have worked with people who have negative self-talk, low self-esteem, mood swings, substance use, anxiety, a history of trauma, and a sense of who they are.
I graduated from Pace University with my Master's Degree as a Licensed Mental Health Therapist and Substance Abuse Counselor. I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy as each individual has specific treatment needs as each person's experiences and the emotional impact of those experiences are unique to that individual. This is why my theoretical approach is humanistic and client-centered. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Adler, and Gestalt.
(585) 440-7934 View (585) 440-7934
Photo of Annette Rivera, LMHC, CASAC, Counselor
Annette Rivera
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11385  (Online Only)
Are you currently struggling with painful emotions, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues or addiction. I congratulate you for making the decision to seek therapy. It would be my pleasure to help you navigate these issues in a safe and therapeutic environment. As a therapist I strive to create an atmosphere that is warm, caring and non-judgmental.Therapy is a proven vehicle that helps you process your thoughts, and feelings from everyday stressors and address patterns from the past. I look forward to helping you reach your goals and achieve the freedom you deserve.
Are you currently struggling with painful emotions, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues or addiction. I congratulate you for making the decision to seek therapy. It would be my pleasure to help you navigate these issues in a safe and therapeutic environment. As a therapist I strive to create an atmosphere that is warm, caring and non-judgmental.Therapy is a proven vehicle that helps you process your thoughts, and feelings from everyday stressors and address patterns from the past. I look forward to helping you reach your goals and achieve the freedom you deserve.
(929) 493-5629 View (929) 493-5629
Photo of Felicia Ivey - Mind-Body And Inner-Self Mental Health Counseling, PhD, LMHC, SAP, MCAP, CAMS-II, Counselor
Mind-Body And Inner-Self Mental Health Counseling
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, SAP, MCAP, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kew Gardens, NY 11415
Are you saying to yourself that you will give your all to being a better person? Are you living your dreams? Do you have a secret that you need to share or serve in an active duty war zone? We all have moments where we need some extra help. I work within a group practice and we will listen to your relationship, family members, pain, depression, anxiety, addiction and how you really feel. We want to talk to you and offer open feedback without judgment. I work with seniors, adults, teens. We are motivating and optimistic therapists with years of experience working with employment, mental health and substance abuse addictions.
Are you saying to yourself that you will give your all to being a better person? Are you living your dreams? Do you have a secret that you need to share or serve in an active duty war zone? We all have moments where we need some extra help. I work within a group practice and we will listen to your relationship, family members, pain, depression, anxiety, addiction and how you really feel. We want to talk to you and offer open feedback without judgment. I work with seniors, adults, teens. We are motivating and optimistic therapists with years of experience working with employment, mental health and substance abuse addictions.
(347) 983-6388 View (347) 983-6388
Photo of Andrea Ferrante, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Ferrante
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rego Park, NY 11374  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Andrea Ferrante, and I have over 8 years of experience in addiction and mental health therapy. I primarily work with young adults and adults. I use a client centered and CBT approach to involve clients in the process of being able to use their strengths to discover more about themselves. Which also allows clients to understand how they can help themselves through what they are struggling with and build confidence within themselves to move forward. My goal is to help guide and support you through your treatment process.
Hi, my name is Andrea Ferrante, and I have over 8 years of experience in addiction and mental health therapy. I primarily work with young adults and adults. I use a client centered and CBT approach to involve clients in the process of being able to use their strengths to discover more about themselves. Which also allows clients to understand how they can help themselves through what they are struggling with and build confidence within themselves to move forward. My goal is to help guide and support you through your treatment process.
View
Photo of Tantenisha James, LMHC, Counselor
Tantenisha James
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Queens Village, NY 11429  (Online Only)
I have worked with people who have negative self-talk, low self-esteem, mood swings, substance use, anxiety, a history of trauma, and a sense of who they are.
I graduated from Pace University with my Master's Degree as a Licensed Mental Health Therapist and Substance Abuse Counselor. I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy as each individual has specific treatment needs as each person's experiences and the emotional impact of those experiences are unique to that individual. This is why my theoretical approach is humanistic and client-centered. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Adler, and Gestalt.
I have worked with people who have negative self-talk, low self-esteem, mood swings, substance use, anxiety, a history of trauma, and a sense of who they are.
I graduated from Pace University with my Master's Degree as a Licensed Mental Health Therapist and Substance Abuse Counselor. I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy as each individual has specific treatment needs as each person's experiences and the emotional impact of those experiences are unique to that individual. This is why my theoretical approach is humanistic and client-centered. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Adler, and Gestalt.
(585) 597-7124 View (585) 597-7124
Photo of Marta Lapinska, LMHC, CASAC, CHC, Counselor
Marta Lapinska
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC, CHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Forest Hills, NY 11375
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in addiction.
Do you feel hopeless about the future? Do you lack encouragement and motivation? Let me help you to find your way to happiness and hope! As a compassionate and intuitive therapist, I strive to provide for safe, caring and respectful environment, where I help my clients to achieve their personal goals and needs. I strive to instill hope and inspire my clients to implement change, to enhance personal growth and to create a profound difference in their lives. I can help to foster self-awareness, and self -acceptance as well as promote healthy and effective communication.
I specialize in addiction.
Do you feel hopeless about the future? Do you lack encouragement and motivation? Let me help you to find your way to happiness and hope! As a compassionate and intuitive therapist, I strive to provide for safe, caring and respectful environment, where I help my clients to achieve their personal goals and needs. I strive to instill hope and inspire my clients to implement change, to enhance personal growth and to create a profound difference in their lives. I can help to foster self-awareness, and self -acceptance as well as promote healthy and effective communication.
(347) 868-6813 View (347) 868-6813
Photo of William Michael Cooper, LCSW, CASAC-T, CDBT, CMIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
William Michael Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC-T, CDBT, CMIP
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11105  (Online Only)
Cooper is both a LCSW and a CASAC-T (Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor) and has over 13 years of working with persons who happen to have addictive disorders and severe mental illness.
William Michael Cooper is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) CASAC-T with SiFi based in New York City NY. Cooper is a CASAC-T; Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor and has over 13 years of working with persons who happen to have addictive disorders. He also works as a Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapy Specialist (C-DBT) and is a current Certified Mindfulness Informed Professional (CMIP).
Cooper is both a LCSW and a CASAC-T (Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor) and has over 13 years of working with persons who happen to have addictive disorders and severe mental illness.
William Michael Cooper is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) CASAC-T with SiFi based in New York City NY. Cooper is a CASAC-T; Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor and has over 13 years of working with persons who happen to have addictive disorders. He also works as a Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapy Specialist (C-DBT) and is a current Certified Mindfulness Informed Professional (CMIP).
(347) 507-2933 View (347) 507-2933
Photo of Nino Tevdorashvili - Psychotherapy and Counseling services, LMHC, CASAC, Counselor
Psychotherapy and Counseling services
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NY 11385
You might experience anxiety, depression, anger, health problems, anger, substance use and other painful difficulties. We have successfully helped our client develop healthier coping skills and master the challenges that impact and affect their current emotional health. Whether working with individuals or couples, the particular intervention we use may vary according to individual or family needs. We work with you in gaining a deeper insight that fosters growth, improves your emotional health, develops the capacity to engage in healthy relationships and provide the tools and skills necessary to live an authentic and satisfying life.
You might experience anxiety, depression, anger, health problems, anger, substance use and other painful difficulties. We have successfully helped our client develop healthier coping skills and master the challenges that impact and affect their current emotional health. Whether working with individuals or couples, the particular intervention we use may vary according to individual or family needs. We work with you in gaining a deeper insight that fosters growth, improves your emotional health, develops the capacity to engage in healthy relationships and provide the tools and skills necessary to live an authentic and satisfying life.
(917) 267-0786 View (917) 267-0786
Photo of Michelle Ilyayev - Michelle Silver Lining Mental Health Counseling , LMHC, Counselor
Michelle Silver Lining Mental Health Counseling
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11367
Our clinical areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, martial issues, codependency, self-esteem, women’s issues, substance abuse, harm reduction, grief, and transitional concerns. Through evidenced based approaches, we aim to tailor our treatment approach specific to the needs of each individual. We believe in helping individuals build on their strengths, gain insight, and develop effective coping skills.
Our clinical areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, martial issues, codependency, self-esteem, women’s issues, substance abuse, harm reduction, grief, and transitional concerns. Through evidenced based approaches, we aim to tailor our treatment approach specific to the needs of each individual. We believe in helping individuals build on their strengths, gain insight, and develop effective coping skills.
(929) 348-2707 View (929) 348-2707
Photo of Tracy L. Liang, MS, LMHC, NCC, C-DBT, CTMH, Counselor
Tracy L. Liang
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, C-DBT, CTMH
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11355  (Online Only)
I am a Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider and a Certified Personality Treatment Provider. I work full-time as a Psychotherapist at a non-profit community mental health clinic. I am experienced working with Mood Disorders, Trauma & PTSD, Behavioral Disorders, Personality Disorders, Substance Abuse, and the LGBTQ community. I am competent in working with multiple cultural backgrounds. I have a Certification in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Prior to my current experience, I worked as a Bilingual Psychotherapist at a Chinese Psychiatry practice. I have many years of research experience in mental health.
I am a Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider and a Certified Personality Treatment Provider. I work full-time as a Psychotherapist at a non-profit community mental health clinic. I am experienced working with Mood Disorders, Trauma & PTSD, Behavioral Disorders, Personality Disorders, Substance Abuse, and the LGBTQ community. I am competent in working with multiple cultural backgrounds. I have a Certification in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Prior to my current experience, I worked as a Bilingual Psychotherapist at a Chinese Psychiatry practice. I have many years of research experience in mental health.
(646) 920-0993 View (646) 920-0993
Photo of Mario Arrendell, LMHC, CASAC, Counselor
Mario Arrendell
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corona, NY 11368
I have extensive knowledge in addiction disorders, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders.
Life can be very challenging and demanding at times and can often leave us feeling confused, lonely, depressed, and anxious. I believe that addressing our mental health and emotional well being is as important as taking care of our physical health.
I have extensive knowledge in addiction disorders, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders.
Life can be very challenging and demanding at times and can often leave us feeling confused, lonely, depressed, and anxious. I believe that addressing our mental health and emotional well being is as important as taking care of our physical health.
(347) 434-6403 View (347) 434-6403
Photo of Lois Ellen Cohen, LCSW-R, MPS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lois Ellen Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, MPS
Verified Verified
Rockaway Park, NY 11694
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience, working with individuals, couples and families who are reporting issues related to life transitions, anxiety, depression and addiction/recovery concerns.
Change can be challenging, especially where there are no roadmaps for us to follow. We look for the guideposts, but in this evolving and sometimes uncertain world, solutions may be hard to find. Working together, and collaboratively, we can achieve goal-focused problem solving strategies. I believe that everyone wants to feel better; identifying what that looks like for each individual, couple or family is part of the work...and part of the journey.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience, working with individuals, couples and families who are reporting issues related to life transitions, anxiety, depression and addiction/recovery concerns.
Change can be challenging, especially where there are no roadmaps for us to follow. We look for the guideposts, but in this evolving and sometimes uncertain world, solutions may be hard to find. Working together, and collaboratively, we can achieve goal-focused problem solving strategies. I believe that everyone wants to feel better; identifying what that looks like for each individual, couple or family is part of the work...and part of the journey.
(516) 699-1456 View (516) 699-1456
Photo of Jeremy Barnett, LMHC, SEP, CASAC, Counselor
Jeremy Barnett
Counselor, LMHC, SEP, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodside, NY 11377  (Online Only)
I have significant experience working with addiction, grief and loss, attachment issues, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Have you been having trouble making sense of and finding your place in the chaotic world that we live in? Are you experiencing emotions that may feel overwhelming, foreign, or scary? Are you struggling to connect with a loved one on a deeper level? Therapy can help you learn more about who you are and what you need, and to start prioritizing the things that are most meaningful to you. Whether your goal is to cope better with life's greatest challenges or to find deeper meaning in your journey, I would love to share with you how my approach to psychotherapy can help you begin to build a more satisfying, stable life.
I have significant experience working with addiction, grief and loss, attachment issues, depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Have you been having trouble making sense of and finding your place in the chaotic world that we live in? Are you experiencing emotions that may feel overwhelming, foreign, or scary? Are you struggling to connect with a loved one on a deeper level? Therapy can help you learn more about who you are and what you need, and to start prioritizing the things that are most meaningful to you. Whether your goal is to cope better with life's greatest challenges or to find deeper meaning in your journey, I would love to share with you how my approach to psychotherapy can help you begin to build a more satisfying, stable life.
(646) 860-0506 View (646) 860-0506
Photo of Maria Georgopoulos, LMHC, FT, Counselor
Maria Georgopoulos
Counselor, LMHC, FT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Astoria, NY 11106
Navigating life's struggles can be challenging at times. I see counseling as an opportunity to grow from our experiences and learn how to make meaning out of them. Some of my specialties include work around anxiety, grief, trauma and addiction. I am also a Level I Sensorimotor Psychotherapist and incorporate this practice as appropriate for my clients. I focus on your current challenges and finding ways to overcome them at your pace while in a safe environment. I have worked with people of all ages both individually and as a group facilitator.
Navigating life's struggles can be challenging at times. I see counseling as an opportunity to grow from our experiences and learn how to make meaning out of them. Some of my specialties include work around anxiety, grief, trauma and addiction. I am also a Level I Sensorimotor Psychotherapist and incorporate this practice as appropriate for my clients. I focus on your current challenges and finding ways to overcome them at your pace while in a safe environment. I have worked with people of all ages both individually and as a group facilitator.
(347) 514-9871 View (347) 514-9871
Photo of Thomas Brent, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thomas Brent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Queens Village, NY 11428  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 42 years of experience. I have worked with a variety of different issues, including addiction, sexual/physical trauma, PTSD, depression/anxiety, low self-esteem, Veteran's concerns, and couple/relationship problems. With a broad background in a variety of psychotherapy treatments, I try to tailor my approach to the needs of the individual. There are some individuals who are struggling with stressful life events, while others have a difficult time even defining what bothers them.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 42 years of experience. I have worked with a variety of different issues, including addiction, sexual/physical trauma, PTSD, depression/anxiety, low self-esteem, Veteran's concerns, and couple/relationship problems. With a broad background in a variety of psychotherapy treatments, I try to tailor my approach to the needs of the individual. There are some individuals who are struggling with stressful life events, while others have a difficult time even defining what bothers them.
(929) 470-7345 View (929) 470-7345
Photo of Yizhao Sheng, LCSW, CASAC-M, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yizhao Sheng
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC-M
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11375  (Online Only)
You may struggle with your life recently and feel it’s hard to live a fulfilling life. You may find yourself with more conflicts with your loved ones recently. You may find you are drinking or smoking more often and your friends & family have become worried about you recently. You are not alone and I am here to help you. I have more than 8 years of clinical experience working with children, teenagers and adults experiencing a wide range of issues related to substance use, anger, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship and family conflicts. Together we will find new ways to cope with life’s challenges, and achieve your goals.
You may struggle with your life recently and feel it’s hard to live a fulfilling life. You may find yourself with more conflicts with your loved ones recently. You may find you are drinking or smoking more often and your friends & family have become worried about you recently. You are not alone and I am here to help you. I have more than 8 years of clinical experience working with children, teenagers and adults experiencing a wide range of issues related to substance use, anger, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship and family conflicts. Together we will find new ways to cope with life’s challenges, and achieve your goals.
(929) 732-7028 View (929) 732-7028
Photo of Janice Kalin, LCSW, CASAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janice Kalin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Neck, NY 11362  (Online Only)
I work with people suffering from anxiety, depression, and the pain of substance abuse and I provide a safe, empathic, and professional environment where trust is key and criticism has no place.
My twenty years of practicing psychoanalytic therapy have made it clear to me that people want to be happy, feel optimistic, and create a more satisfying life. It is my clinical intention to help resolve the problems that prevent you from achieving these goals. As a therapist, it is my responsibility to help you speak freely so you are more comfortable with your thoughts and feelings, leading to improved relationships and a better state of mind.
I work with people suffering from anxiety, depression, and the pain of substance abuse and I provide a safe, empathic, and professional environment where trust is key and criticism has no place.
My twenty years of practicing psychoanalytic therapy have made it clear to me that people want to be happy, feel optimistic, and create a more satisfying life. It is my clinical intention to help resolve the problems that prevent you from achieving these goals. As a therapist, it is my responsibility to help you speak freely so you are more comfortable with your thoughts and feelings, leading to improved relationships and a better state of mind.
(516) 596-8061 View (516) 596-8061
Photo of Raymond D Kramer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Raymond D Kramer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11375  (Online Only)
I am a psychotherapist who specializes in working with adolescents and adults. I help people suffering from a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, addiction such as drugs/alcohol and gambling. I use a strength based, person centered approach in order to guide clients through the discomfort, pain and dissatisfaction that life can sometimes bring. I work in partnership with clients in order to help them achieve growth and increased satisfaction in their daily lives.
I am a psychotherapist who specializes in working with adolescents and adults. I help people suffering from a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, addiction such as drugs/alcohol and gambling. I use a strength based, person centered approach in order to guide clients through the discomfort, pain and dissatisfaction that life can sometimes bring. I work in partnership with clients in order to help them achieve growth and increased satisfaction in their daily lives.
(646) 933-9500 View (646) 933-9500
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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.