Addiction Therapists in Live Oak, TX
![Photo of Larry Gerald Williamson, MA, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44c1c666-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Larry Gerald Williamson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Live Oak, TX 78233
I specialize in providing counseling and treatment to those who are struggling with alcohol and substance abuse and dependence.
Do you ever find yourself feeling anxious or fearful without knowing why? Do you feel like life’s difficulties are overwhelming you? If you do, you are not alone. The challenges of everyday life, can at times become overwhelming for us all. It is at times like these when we need the guidance, support and a positive perspective from a trained professional. You may not believe it, but the answers to your struggles and challenges lie within you. As your therapist, I will utilize a goal directed collaborative approach to help you identify your needs and goals to achieve the life that you desire.
I specialize in providing counseling and treatment to those who are struggling with alcohol and substance abuse and dependence.
Do you ever find yourself feeling anxious or fearful without knowing why? Do you feel like life’s difficulties are overwhelming you? If you do, you are not alone. The challenges of everyday life, can at times become overwhelming for us all. It is at times like these when we need the guidance, support and a positive perspective from a trained professional. You may not believe it, but the answers to your struggles and challenges lie within you. As your therapist, I will utilize a goal directed collaborative approach to help you identify your needs and goals to achieve the life that you desire.
![Photo of Jamey Hinman, LPC, LCDC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2e5a759-91a1-4163-8663-637c21516b1d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jamey Hinman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Live Oak, TX 78233
I work with trauma, addiction, adjustment disorders, relationship issues including aspects of self and others as well conflict resolution.
I believe recovery and growth is a deeply personal individualized experience. I feel privileged being a part of each clients journey. Empathy, compassion, self-worth, vulnerability & relationships with yourself & others are areas that I can help you with on your journey to healing, growing and excelling. Finding the right counselor is paramount to achieving success. I’m an Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) & Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC). I received both my B.A. in Psychology & M.A. in Counseling and Guidance from Texas A&M. I’ve worked in various settings such as private practice, outpatient & residential.
I work with trauma, addiction, adjustment disorders, relationship issues including aspects of self and others as well conflict resolution.
I believe recovery and growth is a deeply personal individualized experience. I feel privileged being a part of each clients journey. Empathy, compassion, self-worth, vulnerability & relationships with yourself & others are areas that I can help you with on your journey to healing, growing and excelling. Finding the right counselor is paramount to achieving success. I’m an Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) & Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC). I received both my B.A. in Psychology & M.A. in Counseling and Guidance from Texas A&M. I’ve worked in various settings such as private practice, outpatient & residential.
![Photo of Rachel King, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3b2a761-29a6-4ae9-8dbd-b1704ea03322/1/320x400.png)
Rachel King
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Live Oak, TX 78233 (Online Only)
Welcome! I have been working as a fully licensed clinician for almost 10 years, as a LCDC starting in 2015 and as a LPC starting in 2024. I understand that seeking therapy takes courage, and I strive to create a safe non-judgmental space where you are able to openly share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and I tailor my approaches to meet your unique needs and goals. I will work collaboratively with you to explore the challenges you're facing and help you develop effective coping strategies.
Welcome! I have been working as a fully licensed clinician for almost 10 years, as a LCDC starting in 2015 and as a LPC starting in 2024. I understand that seeking therapy takes courage, and I strive to create a safe non-judgmental space where you are able to openly share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and I tailor my approaches to meet your unique needs and goals. I will work collaboratively with you to explore the challenges you're facing and help you develop effective coping strategies.
![Photo of Patricia Viscaino, MS, LPC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e889c406-42ad-46ed-a59a-b6ccda6241fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes it’s difficult for individuals who have experienced a tragic event or challenging childhood, to come to terms with it as adults. Unresolved issues can originate from the past, and somehow manifest through certain behavior. Even day to day struggles can be a mountain! As a therapist I believe collaborating with the client is important so that we can explore the issues together. Gaining insight is beneficial for a client to understand the root cause of the behavior. Check out my website try4you.net
Sometimes it’s difficult for individuals who have experienced a tragic event or challenging childhood, to come to terms with it as adults. Unresolved issues can originate from the past, and somehow manifest through certain behavior. Even day to day struggles can be a mountain! As a therapist I believe collaborating with the client is important so that we can explore the issues together. Gaining insight is beneficial for a client to understand the root cause of the behavior. Check out my website try4you.net
![Photo of Katharine Jeray, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d766535-12ae-4eb6-8505-4c6c10b81c52/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Katharine Jeray and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been providing therapy for over 20 years. My approach to therapy is simple and practical. I have experience working with all ages. I have experience working with loss, trauma, workplace issues, depression, and anxiety. I consider myself a “Generalist” therapist.
My name is Katharine Jeray and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been providing therapy for over 20 years. My approach to therapy is simple and practical. I have experience working with all ages. I have experience working with loss, trauma, workplace issues, depression, and anxiety. I consider myself a “Generalist” therapist.
![Photo of Antonina Patrizia Jordt, LMSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c59f9bf5-f066-4c3c-86e9-f58af3383079/2/320x400.jpeg)
Your struggles and challenges don’t define you; your story is so much bigger than whatever brings you to therapy. I'm Antonina Jordt, a Licensed Master Social Worker, and I became a therapist because I know what it’s like to feel discouraged, to be lost. I know what it's like to feel lonely like no one else will understand. I know what it's like to be haunted by the ghosts of your past. I also know what it's like to keep going, overcome, and courageously identify the things that bring you happiness. I believe that you can do that, too.
Your struggles and challenges don’t define you; your story is so much bigger than whatever brings you to therapy. I'm Antonina Jordt, a Licensed Master Social Worker, and I became a therapist because I know what it’s like to feel discouraged, to be lost. I know what it's like to feel lonely like no one else will understand. I know what it's like to be haunted by the ghosts of your past. I also know what it's like to keep going, overcome, and courageously identify the things that bring you happiness. I believe that you can do that, too.
![Photo of Febe S Fernandez, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d320e573-deaf-4ef6-9af4-95365115bb48/4/320x400.jpeg)
Febe S Fernandez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Live Oak, TX 78233
As a therapist, I like to build a strong non-judgmental relationship with patients in order to encourage safety and the comfort needed to explore and resolve the life struggles that have led you to counseling. I use cognitive behavioral therapy to pin down problem areas in thinking that ultimately affect our relationships, self-worth, and perspective in an unhealthy way. I work towards assisting individuals towards their own therapeutic goals in a structured manner that aims at efficiently providing tools and the knowledge necessary to overcome current and future life stressors.
As a therapist, I like to build a strong non-judgmental relationship with patients in order to encourage safety and the comfort needed to explore and resolve the life struggles that have led you to counseling. I use cognitive behavioral therapy to pin down problem areas in thinking that ultimately affect our relationships, self-worth, and perspective in an unhealthy way. I work towards assisting individuals towards their own therapeutic goals in a structured manner that aims at efficiently providing tools and the knowledge necessary to overcome current and future life stressors.
![Photo of Mary Walseth, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ef62383-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Walseth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Live Oak, TX 78233
Waitlist for new clients
SATURDAY appointments now available! Counseling can be a marvelous way to assist you or a loved one to do better and feel better. Sometimes our coping skills fall short of our needs, and feeling like there are no more options can absolutely feel like hitting rock bottom. But there is hope. Someone does care. I have, myself, had many challenges in life and have, from time to time, sought help in counseling. Needing help does not mean you are weak: it means you are ready to find answers.
SATURDAY appointments now available! Counseling can be a marvelous way to assist you or a loved one to do better and feel better. Sometimes our coping skills fall short of our needs, and feeling like there are no more options can absolutely feel like hitting rock bottom. But there is hope. Someone does care. I have, myself, had many challenges in life and have, from time to time, sought help in counseling. Needing help does not mean you are weak: it means you are ready to find answers.
![Photo of Dr. Rosemary Z Hernandez, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, CCMHC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3abe214c-ee9f-4b5d-bafd-e9a14d037872/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Rosemary Z Hernandez
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, CCMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Live Oak, TX 78233
Thank you for taking the first step in seeking help. Sometimes taking this first step is the hardest for most people to take, so congratulations! My hope is to provide you with a safe place to work on whatever symptoms or concerns you are currently dealing with. I have been in the field for over 15 years and have worked with an array of populations. My experience is in the areas of trauma, PTSD, ADHD, adolescents (at-risk youth), relationship issues, divorce, and law enforcement issues. In addition, I have experience working with veterans to provide a second opinion and/or assessment in support of their VA Disability claims.
Thank you for taking the first step in seeking help. Sometimes taking this first step is the hardest for most people to take, so congratulations! My hope is to provide you with a safe place to work on whatever symptoms or concerns you are currently dealing with. I have been in the field for over 15 years and have worked with an array of populations. My experience is in the areas of trauma, PTSD, ADHD, adolescents (at-risk youth), relationship issues, divorce, and law enforcement issues. In addition, I have experience working with veterans to provide a second opinion and/or assessment in support of their VA Disability claims.
![Photo of Kassandra Thompson - Kassandra Thompson Double T Counseling, PLLC , MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef2c8e87-bca0-4436-9a5b-fbdd0925328d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kassandra Thompson Double T Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Live Oak, TX 78233
Please email if you are interested in services, I am better able to reply - I provide counseling to individuals, teens, and families in many areas, such as: depression, anxiety, anger, PTSD and trauma, self-esteem, and teen identity, as well as a variety of other life issues and disorders. I further have a passion for assisting with divorce and positive co-parenting relationships. If you need guidance through past or present, I can assist you in gaining insight and awareness, mindfulness, communication, and boundaries, among many other tools that help you navigate through challenging times.
Please email if you are interested in services, I am better able to reply - I provide counseling to individuals, teens, and families in many areas, such as: depression, anxiety, anger, PTSD and trauma, self-esteem, and teen identity, as well as a variety of other life issues and disorders. I further have a passion for assisting with divorce and positive co-parenting relationships. If you need guidance through past or present, I can assist you in gaining insight and awareness, mindfulness, communication, and boundaries, among many other tools that help you navigate through challenging times.
![Photo of Stacey Schwab](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/862f97ee-3556-4614-adc5-4d7b2746c5e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stacey Schwab
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Live Oak, TX 78233
What is a survivor? Simply put, a survivor is someone who has experienced difficulty in their life. This could be the loss of a loved one, childhood neglect, multiple types of abuse, traumas, or violence. Whatever difficulty is being experienced, my role is to come alongside you, supporting you as you navigate your healing journey. Every individual is unique, so finding the tools, techniques, and therapeutic modalities to best fit for you is part of journey we will take together. I offer teletherapy services only at this time.
What is a survivor? Simply put, a survivor is someone who has experienced difficulty in their life. This could be the loss of a loved one, childhood neglect, multiple types of abuse, traumas, or violence. Whatever difficulty is being experienced, my role is to come alongside you, supporting you as you navigate your healing journey. Every individual is unique, so finding the tools, techniques, and therapeutic modalities to best fit for you is part of journey we will take together. I offer teletherapy services only at this time.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Abraham Marshall, MA, LPC-S, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47073e0c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Abraham Marshall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78217
I have over 25 years counseling experience as both a mental health and substance abuse counselor. Some of those years were as a Psychiatric Medic in the military, including the Gulf War. I am committed to counseling those who are struggling with life adversities, trials and tribulations who are suffering from mood disorders, anxiety, grief, stress, substance abuse, relationship issues, and issues concerning parents of LGBT children, as well as other life stressors or disorders. I counsel mostly adults from ages 18 to 64. I use the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as a primary approach to conduct therapy.
I have over 25 years counseling experience as both a mental health and substance abuse counselor. Some of those years were as a Psychiatric Medic in the military, including the Gulf War. I am committed to counseling those who are struggling with life adversities, trials and tribulations who are suffering from mood disorders, anxiety, grief, stress, substance abuse, relationship issues, and issues concerning parents of LGBT children, as well as other life stressors or disorders. I counsel mostly adults from ages 18 to 64. I use the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as a primary approach to conduct therapy.
![Photo of Gordon Shaw Leith, MA, LPC-S, MAC, SAP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffe0bef8-f1b9-41a2-a5a6-0616f453db99/3/320x400.jpeg)
Gordon Shaw Leith
Counselor, MA, LPC-S, MAC, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78239 (Online Only)
Specializing in depression, anxiety, addiction, and compulsive behaviors, I offer a compassionate approach to healing.
My primary focus in counseling is helping people who have difficulty with their emotions, behaviors, and thoughts. Frankly, there are as many issues as there are people. Everyone is unique. I have acquired specialties in helping individuals with problems over the years that include hypnotherapy, brief counseling and consultations, employee DoT return-to-duty evaluations, organizational development projects, and consultations for mgrs seeking services for on-site injury or deaths. But if you are someone who is struggling with stress and worry, or self-esteem problems, I'm sure we can help there, too
Specializing in depression, anxiety, addiction, and compulsive behaviors, I offer a compassionate approach to healing.
My primary focus in counseling is helping people who have difficulty with their emotions, behaviors, and thoughts. Frankly, there are as many issues as there are people. Everyone is unique. I have acquired specialties in helping individuals with problems over the years that include hypnotherapy, brief counseling and consultations, employee DoT return-to-duty evaluations, organizational development projects, and consultations for mgrs seeking services for on-site injury or deaths. But if you are someone who is struggling with stress and worry, or self-esteem problems, I'm sure we can help there, too
![Photo of Michael Bensman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed70801e-aae1-4a45-a2fb-4ab1d51a5ec1/1/320x400.png)
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for more than thirty years and work with couples, families, and individuals 18 years old and up. My areas of specialty are addiction, alcohol use, anxiety, anger management, behavioral issues, and many more. I use various modalities: Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Existential, Exposure Response Prevention, Schema Therapy, Interpersonal, Marital, and Family Therapy. At times this can appear to be difficult, but it is much more difficult to avoid our problems.
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for more than thirty years and work with couples, families, and individuals 18 years old and up. My areas of specialty are addiction, alcohol use, anxiety, anger management, behavioral issues, and many more. I use various modalities: Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Existential, Exposure Response Prevention, Schema Therapy, Interpersonal, Marital, and Family Therapy. At times this can appear to be difficult, but it is much more difficult to avoid our problems.
![Photo of Frankie Jenkins Jr, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae41cdbe-3d4e-41b0-a74d-03ed3e0c6bb4/2/320x400.png)
Frankie Jenkins Jr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78233
I have experience in running psychoeducation and substance abuse groups with veterans.
I am a Licensed Master's Social Worker, Air force veteran who profoundly cares about life experience. I graduated with a Master’s in Social Work from Our Lady of the Lake University. I am supervised by Jackson Wiggins LCSW-S. Life is hard, finding a good therapist shouldn't be. As a therapist, my goal is to create a safe space for you. I am aware that no two people are the same, so I work closely with clients to explore their concerns and therapeutic goals. Being vulnerable is one of the biggest hurdles when you are seeing a therapist. I build strong therapeutic bonds by being non-judgmental and open to your life experiences.
I have experience in running psychoeducation and substance abuse groups with veterans.
I am a Licensed Master's Social Worker, Air force veteran who profoundly cares about life experience. I graduated with a Master’s in Social Work from Our Lady of the Lake University. I am supervised by Jackson Wiggins LCSW-S. Life is hard, finding a good therapist shouldn't be. As a therapist, my goal is to create a safe space for you. I am aware that no two people are the same, so I work closely with clients to explore their concerns and therapeutic goals. Being vulnerable is one of the biggest hurdles when you are seeing a therapist. I build strong therapeutic bonds by being non-judgmental and open to your life experiences.
![Photo of Rachel Hale, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b825a5e-0da3-49ea-8e23-e43f335282ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, Texas. After serving in the U.S. Navy from 2009-2013, I began my career working in the San Antonio community, serving adults with severe and persistent mental illnesses and addiction-related issues. During that time, I was able to gain experience in advocacy and assisting underserved populations with addressing institutional and systemic barriers to receiving quality mental health treatment. I then transitioned to working with active-duty military in an inpatient setting, addressing the unique challenges faced by our servicemembers and veterans.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, Texas. After serving in the U.S. Navy from 2009-2013, I began my career working in the San Antonio community, serving adults with severe and persistent mental illnesses and addiction-related issues. During that time, I was able to gain experience in advocacy and assisting underserved populations with addressing institutional and systemic barriers to receiving quality mental health treatment. I then transitioned to working with active-duty military in an inpatient setting, addressing the unique challenges faced by our servicemembers and veterans.
![Photo of Sharon Benner, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a368c94f-5309-487c-86d0-a7c366a8f6ea/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there, I'm Sharon! Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? Do you feel that others (or other things) run your life? I work with Individuals, couples, and families to help unblock the path to being happy or joyful again.
Hi there, I'm Sharon! Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? Do you feel that others (or other things) run your life? I work with Individuals, couples, and families to help unblock the path to being happy or joyful again.
![Photo of Martin V Bendernagel, MA, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cc4656b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Martin V Bendernagel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78217
Many people are hurting and seek help with relationship issues, with their spouse, and other family members; I strive to help restore marriage and family relationships. Common problems that clients bring to me include relationship problems, depression, anxiety, grief, past trauma, child behavior problems, addictions, and having problems adjusting to changes in life. I practice spiritually-integrated counseling from a Christian worldview.
Many people are hurting and seek help with relationship issues, with their spouse, and other family members; I strive to help restore marriage and family relationships. Common problems that clients bring to me include relationship problems, depression, anxiety, grief, past trauma, child behavior problems, addictions, and having problems adjusting to changes in life. I practice spiritually-integrated counseling from a Christian worldview.
![Photo of Aseel T Steward, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8cf52101-c7fd-4818-828c-d965614f8300/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aseel T Steward
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78239 (Online Only)
I am licensed in Texas with over 15 years of Therapy experience. I have experience in working with children, adolescents, and adults. I received my M.S at William Carey University in Psychology. My treatment approach is CBT, solution-focused, and client-centered. I specialize in working with individuals with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, PTSD, grief, marriage and family related problems, stress, and LGBTQ+.
I am licensed in Texas with over 15 years of Therapy experience. I have experience in working with children, adolescents, and adults. I received my M.S at William Carey University in Psychology. My treatment approach is CBT, solution-focused, and client-centered. I specialize in working with individuals with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, PTSD, grief, marriage and family related problems, stress, and LGBTQ+.
![Photo of Arturo Freyre, PMHNP, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dedbf616-0a92-40d9-a6fb-502ce42a2fab/3/320x400.jpeg)
Arturo Freyre
Licensed Professional Counselor, PMHNP, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78217
Spanish and English speaking clinician with early morning appointments at 8am available today. Arturo is a an exceptional clinician with a dynamic background of experience and wealth of knowledge to support his patients successful treatment plan. He completed his M.S in Counseling Psychology at Loyola University, New Orleans, LA. He also holds a MSN as a PMHNP from Northern Kentucky University. He believes that the physical is just as important as the mental and spiritual when it comes to good health. He places strong values in empathy and understanding his client's experiences.
Spanish and English speaking clinician with early morning appointments at 8am available today. Arturo is a an exceptional clinician with a dynamic background of experience and wealth of knowledge to support his patients successful treatment plan. He completed his M.S in Counseling Psychology at Loyola University, New Orleans, LA. He also holds a MSN as a PMHNP from Northern Kentucky University. He believes that the physical is just as important as the mental and spiritual when it comes to good health. He places strong values in empathy and understanding his client's experiences.
See more therapy options for Live Oak
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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.