Addiction Therapists in Lancaster, PA

Photo of Aurora Gonzalez, MS, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aurora Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping individuals achieve their Best Self. Be it in healing from trauma, managing anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, or dealing with life challenges such as addiction, relationship issues, divorce, and grief- my goal is to help you be your Best You through everything. I have over 23 years of experience in counseling and helping others explore their past, live better in the present, and face the future with renewed hope. Working on you while managing life's challenges gives us all the opportunity to live our most authentic life.
I specialize in helping individuals achieve their Best Self. Be it in healing from trauma, managing anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, or dealing with life challenges such as addiction, relationship issues, divorce, and grief- my goal is to help you be your Best You through everything. I have over 23 years of experience in counseling and helping others explore their past, live better in the present, and face the future with renewed hope. Working on you while managing life's challenges gives us all the opportunity to live our most authentic life.
(717) 483-7103 View (717) 483-7103
Photo of Melissa Lopez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601  (Online Only)
Trauma can manifest into problem areas such as problem sexual behaviors, substance/alcohol abuse, depression/anxiety, social/work difficulties, perfectionism, self-harm, and/or self-esteem.
Hello & Welcome! So very glad you are here. My name is Melissa Lopez. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 17 years of direct practice experience. I specialize in trauma recovery.
Trauma can manifest into problem areas such as problem sexual behaviors, substance/alcohol abuse, depression/anxiety, social/work difficulties, perfectionism, self-harm, and/or self-esteem.
Hello & Welcome! So very glad you are here. My name is Melissa Lopez. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 17 years of direct practice experience. I specialize in trauma recovery.
(484) 209-5213 View (484) 209-5213
Photo of Lauri King, MA, LPC, CADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauri King
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601
Lauri King is a Licensed Professional Counselor and has been working in the drug and alcohol field since 2009 in various clinical, supervisory, and administrative roles. Lauri currently works with adults experiencing substance use disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders, and adjustment disorders.
Lauri King is a Licensed Professional Counselor and has been working in the drug and alcohol field since 2009 in various clinical, supervisory, and administrative roles. Lauri currently works with adults experiencing substance use disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders, and adjustment disorders.
(717) 366-8214 View (717) 366-8214
Photo of John Goldman, LCSW, CAADC, EMDR, CCTP-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAADC, EMDR, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601
Waitlist for new clients
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified EMDR Therapist, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and Certified Advanced Drug and Alcohol Counselor, my primary area of expertise is serving clients with trauma and substance-use concerns, as well as anxiety and life stressors.
I believe people are the sum of their lived experiences. I am passionate about helping clients address their trauma and significant life events so they can live the best version of their life. I offer sessions in a safe and judgment-free space where my goal is to support clients in developing the tools they need to address the challenges facing them.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified EMDR Therapist, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and Certified Advanced Drug and Alcohol Counselor, my primary area of expertise is serving clients with trauma and substance-use concerns, as well as anxiety and life stressors.
I believe people are the sum of their lived experiences. I am passionate about helping clients address their trauma and significant life events so they can live the best version of their life. I offer sessions in a safe and judgment-free space where my goal is to support clients in developing the tools they need to address the challenges facing them.
(717) 942-9361 View (717) 942-9361
Photo of Kathyrn R Maz - Kathryn R, Maz, PsyD., PsyD, CSAT, Psychologist
Kathryn R, Maz, PsyD.
Psychologist, PsyD, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
I am EMDR trained through the EMDRA approved EMDR Basic Training Program, a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and have completed the beginner level training in Somatic Experiencing.
For over 35 years I have been honored with the experience of helping individuals being held back by addictions, anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. I seek to provide a judgement free, in-depth understanding of my clients' journeys, provide tools for increasing self esteem, understanding and effectively experiencing emotions, and challenging difficult behavioral patterns. I assist couples in reconciling the hurts of the past and moving towards shared unity and deeper intimacy. Some of the areas I specifically specialize in include: substance abuse, sexual addictions, anger, trauma, self injury, and LGBTQIA issues.
I am EMDR trained through the EMDRA approved EMDR Basic Training Program, a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and have completed the beginner level training in Somatic Experiencing.
For over 35 years I have been honored with the experience of helping individuals being held back by addictions, anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. I seek to provide a judgement free, in-depth understanding of my clients' journeys, provide tools for increasing self esteem, understanding and effectively experiencing emotions, and challenging difficult behavioral patterns. I assist couples in reconciling the hurts of the past and moving towards shared unity and deeper intimacy. Some of the areas I specifically specialize in include: substance abuse, sexual addictions, anger, trauma, self injury, and LGBTQIA issues.
(717) 208-8197 View (717) 208-8197
Photo of Matt Brown, MA, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matt Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
Whether you're facing addiction, eating disorders, trauma, self-esteem challenges, anxiety, or depression, understanding and navigating these struggles can be overwhelming. I provide support for individuals seeking clarity and relief. Additionally, I specialize in helping couples enhance and strengthen their relationships. Let's work together to address your unique needs and goals.
Whether you're facing addiction, eating disorders, trauma, self-esteem challenges, anxiety, or depression, understanding and navigating these struggles can be overwhelming. I provide support for individuals seeking clarity and relief. Additionally, I specialize in helping couples enhance and strengthen their relationships. Let's work together to address your unique needs and goals.
(717) 536-8593 View (717) 536-8593
Photo of Melissa Smith - Heart for Change Counseling Services, Inc, MSW, LSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heart for Change Counseling Services, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Lancaster, PA 17602
With different therapists having different specialties, our focus ranges on a wide variety of topics including addiction issues, adoption and foster care trauma, anxiety, chronic pain and illness, codependency, depression,, faith-based issues, grief and loss, life stress, abuse, trauma, and work-related issues.
At Heart for Change Counseling Services, we value finding darkness in the world and bringing light. We treat all people with dignity and respect, maintain an environment free from judgement, and provide a team-approach to ensure those who walk through our doors feel valued, supported, and heard. We believe in making quality services affordable regardless of insurance.
With different therapists having different specialties, our focus ranges on a wide variety of topics including addiction issues, adoption and foster care trauma, anxiety, chronic pain and illness, codependency, depression,, faith-based issues, grief and loss, life stress, abuse, trauma, and work-related issues.
At Heart for Change Counseling Services, we value finding darkness in the world and bringing light. We treat all people with dignity and respect, maintain an environment free from judgement, and provide a team-approach to ensure those who walk through our doors feel valued, supported, and heard. We believe in making quality services affordable regardless of insurance.
(717) 546-9257 View (717) 546-9257
Photo of Belinda Dickson-Brown, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Belinda Dickson-Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
I know life can get hard at times and you feel like there is no way out. Well, I am here to tell you that it is, and I am here to help you figure it out. You do not have to do it alone. You are at the right place, and I will help you to work through issues while identifying your inner strengths to be a happier and healthier version of you. Whether it is depression, anxiety, trauma, infidelity, addiction, parenting and the list can go on. I have a passion for helping people so if you are looking for someone to listen, hear and be understood then let's talk.
I know life can get hard at times and you feel like there is no way out. Well, I am here to tell you that it is, and I am here to help you figure it out. You do not have to do it alone. You are at the right place, and I will help you to work through issues while identifying your inner strengths to be a happier and healthier version of you. Whether it is depression, anxiety, trauma, infidelity, addiction, parenting and the list can go on. I have a passion for helping people so if you are looking for someone to listen, hear and be understood then let's talk.
(717) 539-3821 View (717) 539-3821
Photo of Dr. Matthew Evan Sprong - Empathic Empowerment Counseling, LCPC, LPC, CADC, CLCP, CRC, Counselor
Empathic Empowerment Counseling
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, CADC, CLCP, CRC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
I am skilled in counseling individuals with trauma, substance use disorders, borderline personality disorder, disabilities and chronic health conditions, or other challenging mental health barriers.
We all experience happiness, sadness, and several other emotions every day. Sometimes, you need someone in your corner to challenge you, validate you, or comfort you while discussing your struggles. While I cannot promise that counseling will resolve all your problems, I will join you on your journey to reduce these challenges so you can live a fulfilling life!
I am skilled in counseling individuals with trauma, substance use disorders, borderline personality disorder, disabilities and chronic health conditions, or other challenging mental health barriers.
We all experience happiness, sadness, and several other emotions every day. Sometimes, you need someone in your corner to challenge you, validate you, or comfort you while discussing your struggles. While I cannot promise that counseling will resolve all your problems, I will join you on your journey to reduce these challenges so you can live a fulfilling life!
(217) 393-8942 View (217) 393-8942
Photo of Abby Peters - SHHARP Counseling, LLC, MS, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
SHHARP Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
I have worked in mental health treatment for the past 16 years with my primary focus being on addiction for the past 14 years.
Hi, I'm Abby Peters. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor. I also have my Certification in Addiction Counseling with a competency in gambling disorders. I really enjoy working with late adolescents and adults in an outpatient setting and/or telehealth to meet their individualized needs and personal goals. I enjoy helping individuals address their issues with addiction and mental health as they work towards the goal of recovery. Addiction plays a role in many people's lives at all different levels and I believe I can help you address these issues.
I have worked in mental health treatment for the past 16 years with my primary focus being on addiction for the past 14 years.
Hi, I'm Abby Peters. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor. I also have my Certification in Addiction Counseling with a competency in gambling disorders. I really enjoy working with late adolescents and adults in an outpatient setting and/or telehealth to meet their individualized needs and personal goals. I enjoy helping individuals address their issues with addiction and mental health as they work towards the goal of recovery. Addiction plays a role in many people's lives at all different levels and I believe I can help you address these issues.
(717) 297-1636 View (717) 297-1636
Photo of Penny Pennachi, CCS, CIP, CADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Penny Pennachi
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CCS, CIP, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
I have personally survived childhood dysfunction, addiction, emotional, physical, mental, sexual and religious abuse.
My passion is to assist people from all walks of life with embracing hope, healing and vision. Individual's and families impacted by addiction's, trauma and mental health issues often have difficulty with finding and honoring their own truth. " To thy own self be true". Healthy living is a by-product of healthy boundaries and consistent self-care. Let me help you to identify and overcome the barriers that are preventing you from living a happy, productive and fulfilled life!
I have personally survived childhood dysfunction, addiction, emotional, physical, mental, sexual and religious abuse.
My passion is to assist people from all walks of life with embracing hope, healing and vision. Individual's and families impacted by addiction's, trauma and mental health issues often have difficulty with finding and honoring their own truth. " To thy own self be true". Healthy living is a by-product of healthy boundaries and consistent self-care. Let me help you to identify and overcome the barriers that are preventing you from living a happy, productive and fulfilled life!
(570) 556-4541 View (570) 556-4541
Photo of Maggie Hunt, MS, CAADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Maggie Hunt
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, CAADC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601  (Online Only)
I specialize in offering comprehensive support to individuals navigating the complexities of substance use disorders, behavioral challenges, mental health concerns and career counseling.
My ideal clients are individuals interested in embarking on self-discovery and healing. Whether you're taking your first steps toward recovery or seeking to overcome longstanding challenges, I am here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can work towards creating a life filled with purpose, fulfillment, and lasting well-being.
I specialize in offering comprehensive support to individuals navigating the complexities of substance use disorders, behavioral challenges, mental health concerns and career counseling.
My ideal clients are individuals interested in embarking on self-discovery and healing. Whether you're taking your first steps toward recovery or seeking to overcome longstanding challenges, I am here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can work towards creating a life filled with purpose, fulfillment, and lasting well-being.
(717) 915-5891 View (717) 915-5891
Chad Shaeffer
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA,CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
When you are trapped within the jaws of addiction, the hope of escape and recovery seems absolutely impossible. Sometimes you are tempted to just "throw in the towel" and surrender to the thought that you are destined to be an "addict" for the rest of your life--that you just don't have what it takes to change. But based on my own personal background, years of hands-on experience, and education, I can assure you that this defeatist feeling is wrong, although understandable.
When you are trapped within the jaws of addiction, the hope of escape and recovery seems absolutely impossible. Sometimes you are tempted to just "throw in the towel" and surrender to the thought that you are destined to be an "addict" for the rest of your life--that you just don't have what it takes to change. But based on my own personal background, years of hands-on experience, and education, I can assure you that this defeatist feeling is wrong, although understandable.
(717) 674-3864 View (717) 674-3864
Photo of Hillary Bossert-Davis, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hillary Bossert-Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17602
I have experience working with individuals with substance abuse and addiction, depression and anxiety disorders, people in various stages of life change and experience, codependency and families/loved ones of those with addiction, and family/couples issues.
In my practice, I find meeting my clients where they are and working together from their goals to be most effective. I would work with my you from a strengths-based approach, helping you to focus your goals on improving your quality of life and working on the different areas of life which either prevent you from achieving your desires or may be a strength to work from! I am open to working with clients from all ages and backgrounds!
I have experience working with individuals with substance abuse and addiction, depression and anxiety disorders, people in various stages of life change and experience, codependency and families/loved ones of those with addiction, and family/couples issues.
In my practice, I find meeting my clients where they are and working together from their goals to be most effective. I would work with my you from a strengths-based approach, helping you to focus your goals on improving your quality of life and working on the different areas of life which either prevent you from achieving your desires or may be a strength to work from! I am open to working with clients from all ages and backgrounds!
(717) 276-4262 View (717) 276-4262
Photo of Margarete Hahn, LCSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margarete Hahn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601
My areas of specialty are Trauma Processing, PTSD, Life Transitions, Anxiety/Stress Management, Substance Use Disorder, Couples Counseling and Relationship Issues, Coping Skills, Family Conflict, Life Coaching.
Welcome! I'm Margarete, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and a Certified Advanced Alcohol/Drug Counselor. My goal in therapy is to build an honest, trusting relationship, creating a area of safety, where you can deal with challenges in the light of truth, honesty, and reality. I have a deep appreciation of diversity and an unwavering belief in the inherent value of every human being. I can accompany you on the journey toward healing and growth.
My areas of specialty are Trauma Processing, PTSD, Life Transitions, Anxiety/Stress Management, Substance Use Disorder, Couples Counseling and Relationship Issues, Coping Skills, Family Conflict, Life Coaching.
Welcome! I'm Margarete, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and a Certified Advanced Alcohol/Drug Counselor. My goal in therapy is to build an honest, trusting relationship, creating a area of safety, where you can deal with challenges in the light of truth, honesty, and reality. I have a deep appreciation of diversity and an unwavering belief in the inherent value of every human being. I can accompany you on the journey toward healing and growth.
(717) 569-8511 View (717) 569-8511
Photo of Julie Saragosa, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Julie Saragosa
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
I have experience in helping clients reduce their symptoms associated with depression and anxiety, as well as relationship issues, addiction, low self-esteem, professional burnout, especially educators and others in helping professions.
As your therapist, my goal is to provide a comfortable and safe environment for you to express your feelings and help you gain perspective with challenges you may be facing. My clients learn healthy coping skills and tools to better navigate life's difficult moments. My role is to walk alongside you through this journey to your most empowered and best self. By challenging beliefs and emotions that no longer serve you, in addition to improving intra and interpersonal relationships, personal growth and symptom relief are my goals for you. You are not alone; allow me to help you through challenges and find hope and happiness again.
I have experience in helping clients reduce their symptoms associated with depression and anxiety, as well as relationship issues, addiction, low self-esteem, professional burnout, especially educators and others in helping professions.
As your therapist, my goal is to provide a comfortable and safe environment for you to express your feelings and help you gain perspective with challenges you may be facing. My clients learn healthy coping skills and tools to better navigate life's difficult moments. My role is to walk alongside you through this journey to your most empowered and best self. By challenging beliefs and emotions that no longer serve you, in addition to improving intra and interpersonal relationships, personal growth and symptom relief are my goals for you. You are not alone; allow me to help you through challenges and find hope and happiness again.
(223) 218-2976 View (223) 218-2976
Photo of Allison Soellner, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allison Soellner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601
I believe that all individuals deserve a safe, warm and inviting environment to work on goals that make change possible. My goal in the therapeutic process is to allow individuals to explore in a supportive, collaborative manner. I incorporate person-centered therapy where clients have the ability to process, create goals and ignite change into their lives, whether that be mentally, emotionally or spiritually. I enjoy working with individuals who are 16 and older that may be struggling in areas that include anxiety, relationships, substance use, life stress, trauma and other areas that may be found during the journey of therapy.
I believe that all individuals deserve a safe, warm and inviting environment to work on goals that make change possible. My goal in the therapeutic process is to allow individuals to explore in a supportive, collaborative manner. I incorporate person-centered therapy where clients have the ability to process, create goals and ignite change into their lives, whether that be mentally, emotionally or spiritually. I enjoy working with individuals who are 16 and older that may be struggling in areas that include anxiety, relationships, substance use, life stress, trauma and other areas that may be found during the journey of therapy.
(717) 864-4980 View (717) 864-4980
Photo of Starlene Delp, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Starlene Delp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, stress, and substance abuse.
My name is Starlene but I prefer Star and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults mostly within the focus areas of depression, anxiety, stage of life transitions, and stress management, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with other coping skills gathered from DBT, Mindfulness, and EMDR to help my clients find what skills work best for their needs.
This often takes the form of anxiety, depression, stress, and substance abuse.
My name is Starlene but I prefer Star and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults mostly within the focus areas of depression, anxiety, stage of life transitions, and stress management, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with other coping skills gathered from DBT, Mindfulness, and EMDR to help my clients find what skills work best for their needs.
(717) 402-8787 View (717) 402-8787
Photo of Edward Zajac, LAPC, NCC, CTP, Counselor
Edward Zajac
Counselor, LAPC, NCC, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17601
I have a passion for and experience in helping others who have experienced trauma, stressful events, anxiety, depression, substance use, self-harm, addiction, eating or food related issues, and relationship problems.
I am trauma informed & trauma focused. Working with me will often mean looking at issues and challenges being experienced through the lens of how trauma and stress have affected you. My goal as a therapist is to foster a relationship where you feel safe, heard, and validated. From this place of safety, we can collaborate to create a plan to address the reasons you are seeking support and to heal. Relationships can be the source of many challenges in our lives. This could be how we relate to ourselves, others, or the world in general. Through addressing how we relate to ourselves and others we can experience powerful positive change.
I have a passion for and experience in helping others who have experienced trauma, stressful events, anxiety, depression, substance use, self-harm, addiction, eating or food related issues, and relationship problems.
I am trauma informed & trauma focused. Working with me will often mean looking at issues and challenges being experienced through the lens of how trauma and stress have affected you. My goal as a therapist is to foster a relationship where you feel safe, heard, and validated. From this place of safety, we can collaborate to create a plan to address the reasons you are seeking support and to heal. Relationships can be the source of many challenges in our lives. This could be how we relate to ourselves, others, or the world in general. Through addressing how we relate to ourselves and others we can experience powerful positive change.
(717) 922-5493 View (717) 922-5493
Photo of Dr. Nancy Brooks (Accepting New Clients), PsyD, NCC
Dr. Nancy Brooks (Accepting New Clients)
PsyD, NCC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603
Do you want to feel better? I have 20+ years of professional experience with teens, adults, couples, and families. I work with people experiencing relationship issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem/self-worth issues, family problems, eating disorders, substance abuse/ addiction, trauma or fear, parenting issues, a breakup, divorce, drug and alcohol use and interventions, work/job issues, pet bereavement, ...more. Same/next-day appointments are often available. EMAIL DR. NANCY FOR AN APPOINTMENT.
Do you want to feel better? I have 20+ years of professional experience with teens, adults, couples, and families. I work with people experiencing relationship issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem/self-worth issues, family problems, eating disorders, substance abuse/ addiction, trauma or fear, parenting issues, a breakup, divorce, drug and alcohol use and interventions, work/job issues, pet bereavement, ...more. Same/next-day appointments are often available. EMAIL DR. NANCY FOR AN APPOINTMENT.
(717) 775-6199 View (717) 775-6199
1
Addiction Therapists

What is the best therapy for addiction?

Addiction treatment will be tailored to the individual. People seeking help for addiction—whether with a psychotherapist, in an outpatient clinic, or in a residential program—should expect to engage in multiple types of treatments, sometimes including medication. For anyone recovering from addiction, avoiding situations in which one has typically used a substance is essential, as is the support of close connections. Since substance use disorders tend to co-occur with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, those must also be addressed as part of any recovery plan.

How long does therapy for addiction take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from addiction. Patients and their families should expect the work to last several months, if not longer. Residential treatment programs may be based on a stay of 30, 60, or 90 days, with continuing work after release, but only about 1 percent of people are treated in such facilities. Ceasing use is just the first step; therapy to help maintain abstinence and effect behavior change must follow. The process of recovery, neuroscience has shown, involves brain cells recovering the capacity to respond to natural sources of reward and restore control over the impulse to use. Another definition of recovery is restoring voluntary control over one’s substance use and retaking all of one’s previous responsibilities.

How effective is drug addiction treatment?

Substance use disorders are treatable and remission is achievable for many who seek recovery; by some estimates, more than three-quarters of people who become addicted to alcohol or drugs recover. But that success rarely occurs quickly or on a set timeline; relapse is not only common, but many therapists and clinicians view it as a normal part of the process—not always a sign that a person has returned to addiction, but a signal that their treatment should be adjusted to help them regain control. Overall, research suggests, five years after the end of substance use, one’s risk of relapse is no greater than that of others who had not faced addiction. Other experts believe that complete abstinence is not the only measure of recovery, and that, through effective treatment, many people can learn to control their use.

How can you get addiction treatment for someone?

The most important factor in recovery from addiction is widely understood to be an individual’s commitment to change. For that reason,“interventions” in which friends and family gather to urge or force someone to begin immediate treatment often backfire; even when such efforts do lead someone to begin treatment, they may be less likely to stay than those who are self-driven. Still, family members can play an important role in supporting an individual who seeks help and can take part in family therapy as one element of a loved one’s treatment.