Photo of Michelle Mackey, LPC , MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Mackey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
My experience includes mental health treatment in corrections, community mental health centers, working with homeless population, integrated care centers, outpatient substance abuse treatment and experience working within the probation and parole departments to identify needs of offenders in outpatient settings.
I believe that working with a therapist who is invested to help empower motivation for change can alter the course of a person’s life. I strive to help client’s facilitate change by creating a safe, nonjudgmental space for a person to explore emotions, feelings, life transitions, relationships, as well as mental health and addiction challenges. It takes a lot of courage to take the first step in finding a professional who can and will walk alongside you on your journey until you reach your destination.
My experience includes mental health treatment in corrections, community mental health centers, working with homeless population, integrated care centers, outpatient substance abuse treatment and experience working within the probation and parole departments to identify needs of offenders in outpatient settings.
I believe that working with a therapist who is invested to help empower motivation for change can alter the course of a person’s life. I strive to help client’s facilitate change by creating a safe, nonjudgmental space for a person to explore emotions, feelings, life transitions, relationships, as well as mental health and addiction challenges. It takes a lot of courage to take the first step in finding a professional who can and will walk alongside you on your journey until you reach your destination.
(865) 737-2694 View (865) 737-2694
Photo of Michael Corbeil, LPC, MHSP, (T), NCC, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Michael Corbeil
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, MHSP, (T), NCC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Specializing in substance use, anxiety, and depression I've found my calling in helping others find balance in the hectic working world.
Do you find yourself grappling with substance abuse, struggling to find balance, or experiencing anxiety and/or depression? I know the feeling all too well, and these issues are multifaceted, intertwined, and deeply personal. If you’re seeking relief from the weight of addiction or yearning for emotional stability and freedom from anxiety and depression's grip, let me help you. Let's go on a journey together to move towards inner peace and rekindle a sense of purpose.
Specializing in substance use, anxiety, and depression I've found my calling in helping others find balance in the hectic working world.
Do you find yourself grappling with substance abuse, struggling to find balance, or experiencing anxiety and/or depression? I know the feeling all too well, and these issues are multifaceted, intertwined, and deeply personal. If you’re seeking relief from the weight of addiction or yearning for emotional stability and freedom from anxiety and depression's grip, let me help you. Let's go on a journey together to move towards inner peace and rekindle a sense of purpose.
(629) 258-8201 View (629) 258-8201
Photo of Barbara L. Schmitt, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barbara L. Schmitt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37042  (Online Only)
I have experience in treating addiction, having worked in Intensive Outpatient facilities and residential drug and alcohol treatment programs.
Emotional pain is hurtful. Sometimes life circumstances overwhelm us and we lose our way and our peace of mind. Therapy can help heal relationships with others but most importantly with ourselves. We need an objective partner who can identify problematic issues and assist with development of coping skills and healing. I've named my practice Tranquility Counseling because I hope to help my clients enter a space of peacefulness, calm, and safety - even amidst chaotic times.
I have experience in treating addiction, having worked in Intensive Outpatient facilities and residential drug and alcohol treatment programs.
Emotional pain is hurtful. Sometimes life circumstances overwhelm us and we lose our way and our peace of mind. Therapy can help heal relationships with others but most importantly with ourselves. We need an objective partner who can identify problematic issues and assist with development of coping skills and healing. I've named my practice Tranquility Counseling because I hope to help my clients enter a space of peacefulness, calm, and safety - even amidst chaotic times.
(615) 656-7209 View (615) 656-7209
Photo of Amber Joyce - StrongWell, LCSW, LMHC, CPRS, NCPRSS, RN, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
StrongWell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMHC, CPRS, NCPRSS, RN
Not Verified Not Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
*Accepting New Clients!* StrongWell provides counseling for those living with substance, are in recovery, or want to be in recovery. Our sessions are via telehealth and we are available in Texas, Tennessee, Kentucky and Florida.
*Accepting New Clients!* StrongWell provides counseling for those living with substance, are in recovery, or want to be in recovery. Our sessions are via telehealth and we are available in Texas, Tennessee, Kentucky and Florida.
(629) 200-6414 x2 View (629) 200-6414 x2
Photo of Yvonne Robertson - Bearden Behavioral Health, LCSW, MAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bearden Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
I have expertise in trauma resolution, addiction and recovery and most mental health concerns.
I love to work with people from 20 to 90 whether you need someone to help you walk through a particularly rough patch or have had long term problems with abuse or trauma issues, substance use, depression, anxiety or self-harm. If you have childhood issues or problems in present day life I have an eclectic approach with a wealth of experience and expertise. If your goal is to identify what direction you want to go in and how to get where you want to be I am ready to take that journey with you.
I have expertise in trauma resolution, addiction and recovery and most mental health concerns.
I love to work with people from 20 to 90 whether you need someone to help you walk through a particularly rough patch or have had long term problems with abuse or trauma issues, substance use, depression, anxiety or self-harm. If you have childhood issues or problems in present day life I have an eclectic approach with a wealth of experience and expertise. If your goal is to identify what direction you want to go in and how to get where you want to be I am ready to take that journey with you.
(865) 830-1876 View (865) 830-1876
Photo of Jamie Suarez, LPC, MHSP, MS, CSAT-C, C-DBT, Counselor
Jamie Suarez
Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MS, CSAT-C, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37917
If you find yourself encountering emotional problems, engaging in addictive behaviors, or experiencing relational problems, I am here to help! Below is a checklist of specific issues you may have which I am qualified to work with and have significant training & experience in working with. I am also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist Candidate who works with those struggling with problematic sexual behavior and pornography, but I am well suited to work with people on many other issues as well. You can visit my website and click on the client portal link to schedule an appointment today!
If you find yourself encountering emotional problems, engaging in addictive behaviors, or experiencing relational problems, I am here to help! Below is a checklist of specific issues you may have which I am qualified to work with and have significant training & experience in working with. I am also a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist Candidate who works with those struggling with problematic sexual behavior and pornography, but I am well suited to work with people on many other issues as well. You can visit my website and click on the client portal link to schedule an appointment today!
(865) 407-2281 View (865) 407-2281
Photo of LaCrisha Johnson, MS
LaCrisha Johnson
MS
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
My ideal client is someone ready to actively engage in their healing journey and personal development. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, substance abuse, or major life transitions, I provide a supportive, affirming space for growth. I specialize in working with individuals from diverse communities, including BIPOC and LGBTQIA2S+, who seek a therapist who truly understands and respects their unique experiences. Together, we will tap into your inner strength, cultivating the courage to embrace your true self and maintain that foundation as you continue to thrive and evolve.
My ideal client is someone ready to actively engage in their healing journey and personal development. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, substance abuse, or major life transitions, I provide a supportive, affirming space for growth. I specialize in working with individuals from diverse communities, including BIPOC and LGBTQIA2S+, who seek a therapist who truly understands and respects their unique experiences. Together, we will tap into your inner strength, cultivating the courage to embrace your true self and maintain that foundation as you continue to thrive and evolve.
(629) 276-3400 View (629) 276-3400
William Mealer
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38119  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
The majority of patients I see are struggling with alcohol and drug addiction.
I am a licensed psychologist with training and experience in treating a wide variety of psychological disorders. I work with adults with alcoholism, drug addiction, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, phobias and phase of life problems, i.e. marital problems and divorce, job loss, physical illness. While my approach to treatment is primarily cognitive-behavioral, I also rely on other treatment approaches and interventions. I believe that the psychologist and the individual must work together as a team. Thus, each treatment plan is created by working together according to the needs of the individual.
The majority of patients I see are struggling with alcohol and drug addiction.
I am a licensed psychologist with training and experience in treating a wide variety of psychological disorders. I work with adults with alcoholism, drug addiction, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, phobias and phase of life problems, i.e. marital problems and divorce, job loss, physical illness. While my approach to treatment is primarily cognitive-behavioral, I also rely on other treatment approaches and interventions. I believe that the psychologist and the individual must work together as a team. Thus, each treatment plan is created by working together according to the needs of the individual.
(901) 290-0366 View (901) 290-0366
Photo of Jo Clark, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jo Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37804
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with clients with trauma, depression, anxiety, and addiction.
I have worked for the past 19 years with adults, adolescents and children, addressing a variety of issues to include behavioral concerns, a variety of mental health diagnoses, trauma, addiction, self-harm, depression, anxiety, family issues, and more. I have also worked with adults in a variety of settings to address marriage and family concerns as well as addiction, trauma, and parenting skills.
I specialize in working with clients with trauma, depression, anxiety, and addiction.
I have worked for the past 19 years with adults, adolescents and children, addressing a variety of issues to include behavioral concerns, a variety of mental health diagnoses, trauma, addiction, self-harm, depression, anxiety, family issues, and more. I have also worked with adults in a variety of settings to address marriage and family concerns as well as addiction, trauma, and parenting skills.
(865) 290-2026 View (865) 290-2026
Photo of Nancy C. Davis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy C. Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Life can sometimes be filled with unexpected ups and downs or twists and turns that catch us off guard. We may feel overwhelmed or unprepared to handle these changes. Everyone needs a little help now and then. I am a licensed clinical social worker practicing for over 20 years. I have extensive experience with substance abuse/ addiction, eating disorders, trauma and mood disorders (depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar) along with issues related to grief and mild cognitive impairment and caregiving issues. I work with adults and families.
Life can sometimes be filled with unexpected ups and downs or twists and turns that catch us off guard. We may feel overwhelmed or unprepared to handle these changes. Everyone needs a little help now and then. I am a licensed clinical social worker practicing for over 20 years. I have extensive experience with substance abuse/ addiction, eating disorders, trauma and mood disorders (depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar) along with issues related to grief and mild cognitive impairment and caregiving issues. I work with adults and families.
(865) 205-0502 x134 View (865) 205-0502 x134
Photo of Jerry W Lawson, MA, LPCMHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jerry W Lawson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
My past struggle with opioid addiction led me to want to inspire and help others face their mental health struggles and walk them through their recovery.
If you are searching to regain hope in your life, relationships, and career, then I would love to work with you. I have been working in the mental health field since 2015. I received my undergraduate degree in Biology from Clearwater Christian College and I later received my Masters of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. My own six year struggle with opioids and prescription medication addiction led him to want to inspire and help others face their mental health struggles and walk them through their recovery.
My past struggle with opioid addiction led me to want to inspire and help others face their mental health struggles and walk them through their recovery.
If you are searching to regain hope in your life, relationships, and career, then I would love to work with you. I have been working in the mental health field since 2015. I received my undergraduate degree in Biology from Clearwater Christian College and I later received my Masters of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. My own six year struggle with opioids and prescription medication addiction led him to want to inspire and help others face their mental health struggles and walk them through their recovery.
(629) 205-3892 View (629) 205-3892
Photo of Jennifer Canales, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Canales
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, addiction, and mood disorders.
Life can challenge us in the most difficult ways, make us feel lost, hopeless, scared. This is when I come in to help. Through struggles you have held onto for your entire life to events that have just happened, I look to help find paths to peace. I provide empathy and clarity to identify your true self. I believe we all have the capability to thrive and live a meaningful life, no matter the circumstances we have endured. I hope to help you find your path!
I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, addiction, and mood disorders.
Life can challenge us in the most difficult ways, make us feel lost, hopeless, scared. This is when I come in to help. Through struggles you have held onto for your entire life to events that have just happened, I look to help find paths to peace. I provide empathy and clarity to identify your true self. I believe we all have the capability to thrive and live a meaningful life, no matter the circumstances we have endured. I hope to help you find your path!
(629) 348-4986 View (629) 348-4986
Photo of Joshua Mowrey, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joshua Mowrey
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Clarksville, TN 37040
I am excited to work with clients of any population. As a veteran, I have experience working with the military, substance abuse, PTSD, and anxiety. My current areas of interest include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, personality disorders, and family or couples therapy. I also have a particular passion for working with adolescents and young adults struggling with behavioral problems and those from disadvantaged backgrounds, as well as working with issues of anger management.
I am excited to work with clients of any population. As a veteran, I have experience working with the military, substance abuse, PTSD, and anxiety. My current areas of interest include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, personality disorders, and family or couples therapy. I also have a particular passion for working with adolescents and young adults struggling with behavioral problems and those from disadvantaged backgrounds, as well as working with issues of anger management.
(931) 263-1132 View (931) 263-1132
Photo of Natalie Glassburg, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natalie Glassburg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37209  (Online Only)
Life has taken you through many difficult paths, and you may be feeling discouraged and overwhelmed, uncertain of where to turn. I help people who are struggling with with life, experiencing difficulties with work or school, recently have gone through a relationship break, moved to a new city, among other life transitions. Sometimes when life gets more difficult we turn to alcohol, substances or other unhealthy ways to “escape”. I work with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction issues, relationship issues and life transitions.
Life has taken you through many difficult paths, and you may be feeling discouraged and overwhelmed, uncertain of where to turn. I help people who are struggling with with life, experiencing difficulties with work or school, recently have gone through a relationship break, moved to a new city, among other life transitions. Sometimes when life gets more difficult we turn to alcohol, substances or other unhealthy ways to “escape”. I work with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction issues, relationship issues and life transitions.
(615) 455-3133 View (615) 455-3133
Photo of Kelsey Dupree, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelsey Dupree
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37411
I have several years of experience working with a variety of mental health issues, including addiction, severe and persistent mental health disorders, family systems, domestic violence situations, trauma, along with others.
There are several things in my life which drive me to be a counselor. My own past with it struggles, acceptances, failures, and successes drive me to do what I do. I am able to sit in dark places, empathize with struggle and loneliness, and challenge ways of thinking and behaving from a non-judgmental place. I love the unique position a counselor has to problem solve through the failures, walk the uphill road to recovery, and celebrate the success and growth that comes out of the journey.
I have several years of experience working with a variety of mental health issues, including addiction, severe and persistent mental health disorders, family systems, domestic violence situations, trauma, along with others.
There are several things in my life which drive me to be a counselor. My own past with it struggles, acceptances, failures, and successes drive me to do what I do. I am able to sit in dark places, empathize with struggle and loneliness, and challenge ways of thinking and behaving from a non-judgmental place. I love the unique position a counselor has to problem solve through the failures, walk the uphill road to recovery, and celebrate the success and growth that comes out of the journey.
(470) 768-9215 View (470) 768-9215
Photo of Dr. Matthew J Bruhin, PhD, LMFT, RAS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Matthew J Bruhin
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, RAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
I know my stuff, but am humble enough to learn from you! I specialize in addictions, family issues, couple issues, pornography addiction, and depression & anxiety.
What happened to the world? Do you feel out of hope? Do real solutions and answers to problems seem impossible to find? Take heart and hang in there! No matter how dark and trying things feel in this moment, there is hope and ability to change that can happen. Join me and my personally trained staff to help move beyond the madness, implement real and lasting results that focus on core changes. No matter if you have had years of treatment and therapy, or are new to counseling, become one of the many who have found answers working with us!
I know my stuff, but am humble enough to learn from you! I specialize in addictions, family issues, couple issues, pornography addiction, and depression & anxiety.
What happened to the world? Do you feel out of hope? Do real solutions and answers to problems seem impossible to find? Take heart and hang in there! No matter how dark and trying things feel in this moment, there is hope and ability to change that can happen. Join me and my personally trained staff to help move beyond the madness, implement real and lasting results that focus on core changes. No matter if you have had years of treatment and therapy, or are new to counseling, become one of the many who have found answers working with us!
(629) 465-4702 View (629) 465-4702
Photo of Caleb Abrams, CSAT, CCTP, CAIMHP, CASDCS, CCATP
Caleb Abrams
CSAT, CCTP, CAIMHP, CASDCS, CCATP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37201  (Online Only)
Caleb is Christian Counselor, a Certified Sex Addiction Counselor (CSAT), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional (CAIMHP), Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (CASDCS), and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). Caleb specializes in helping men work through addiction recovery, anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. His passion is to provide a safe space for his clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
Caleb is Christian Counselor, a Certified Sex Addiction Counselor (CSAT), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional (CAIMHP), Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (CASDCS), and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). Caleb specializes in helping men work through addiction recovery, anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. His passion is to provide a safe space for his clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
(619) 663-7248 View (619) 663-7248
Photo of Jerry Lawson, MA, LMHC, QS, Counselor
Jerry Lawson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
Mount Juliet, TN 37122
My past struggle with opioid addiction led me to want to inspire and help others face their mental health struggles and walk them through their recovery.
If you are searching to regain hope in your life, relationships, and career, then I would love to work with you. I have been working in the mental health field since 2015. I received my undergraduate degree in Biology from Clearwater Christian College and I later received my Masters of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. My own six year struggle with opioids and prescription medication addiction led him to want to inspire and help others face their mental health struggles and walk them through their recovery.
My past struggle with opioid addiction led me to want to inspire and help others face their mental health struggles and walk them through their recovery.
If you are searching to regain hope in your life, relationships, and career, then I would love to work with you. I have been working in the mental health field since 2015. I received my undergraduate degree in Biology from Clearwater Christian College and I later received my Masters of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. My own six year struggle with opioids and prescription medication addiction led him to want to inspire and help others face their mental health struggles and walk them through their recovery.
(321) 320-6249 View (321) 320-6249
Photo of Rebecca Yaklic, PysD, Psychologist
Rebecca Yaklic
Psychologist, PysD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
I have worked with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and walks of life, and I particularly enjoy working with folks who are experiencing concerns with mood, anxiety, grief, trauma, and substance use.
Life can be challenging with its various ups and downs, and at times, it can feel hopeless that things will improve. If you’re feeling this way, you are not alone! As a psychologist, my goal is not only to help find solutions and ways to cope with these challenges, but also to sit with you through the experiences in life that we may not be able to change. Therapy is not one size fits all, so utilizing various techniques including CBT, ACT, and DBT, we will work together to develop a plan to address your specific concerns and ensure that you are able to refocus on the most important and valuable parts of your life.
I have worked with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and walks of life, and I particularly enjoy working with folks who are experiencing concerns with mood, anxiety, grief, trauma, and substance use.
Life can be challenging with its various ups and downs, and at times, it can feel hopeless that things will improve. If you’re feeling this way, you are not alone! As a psychologist, my goal is not only to help find solutions and ways to cope with these challenges, but also to sit with you through the experiences in life that we may not be able to change. Therapy is not one size fits all, so utilizing various techniques including CBT, ACT, and DBT, we will work together to develop a plan to address your specific concerns and ensure that you are able to refocus on the most important and valuable parts of your life.
(865) 874-6978 View (865) 874-6978
Photo of Kristen Watson - All About Counseling and Wellness Center, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
All About Counseling and Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Clarksville, TN 37043
My experience is composed of working with Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Trauma, ADD, ADHD, Relationship Issues, Substance Use, Adjustment issues, Military Issues, and facilitating groups.
“When we finally let go of what no longer serves us, what we’re holding, what we know, we make room to invite new wisdom, new choices, new freedom” Tamara Levitt. Letting go of the past and opening ourselves up to new things and new possibilities can be challenging and intimidating. Holding onto past hurts and disappointments takes up so much emotional space and leaves little room for us to grow in our relationships with ourselves and those around us. I would be honored to join you on your discovery to a new you, helping you to let go of past and present struggles, and opening yourself to the possibility of something different.
My experience is composed of working with Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Trauma, ADD, ADHD, Relationship Issues, Substance Use, Adjustment issues, Military Issues, and facilitating groups.
“When we finally let go of what no longer serves us, what we’re holding, what we know, we make room to invite new wisdom, new choices, new freedom” Tamara Levitt. Letting go of the past and opening ourselves up to new things and new possibilities can be challenging and intimidating. Holding onto past hurts and disappointments takes up so much emotional space and leaves little room for us to grow in our relationships with ourselves and those around us. I would be honored to join you on your discovery to a new you, helping you to let go of past and present struggles, and opening yourself to the possibility of something different.
(931) 340-9602 View (931) 340-9602
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.