Photo of Nicholas (Nick) Simpson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arvada, CO
Nicholas (Nick) Simpson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LD, MSEE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004
I promote improvement in my client's quality of life related to moods, relationships & sense of purpose. I approach clients where they are in their lives, relationships & moods in a manner that is accepting and encouraging. I believe people are their own best resource for understanding their present state, how they have arrived there, & having resilience to heal & move toward their goals. When clients are very stuck in negative moods, behaviors & relational patterns, I help them engage these through mindfulness, emotionally-focused & trauma healing therapies, which are based on understanding natural processes of healing & growth.
I promote improvement in my client's quality of life related to moods, relationships & sense of purpose. I approach clients where they are in their lives, relationships & moods in a manner that is accepting and encouraging. I believe people are their own best resource for understanding their present state, how they have arrived there, & having resilience to heal & move toward their goals. When clients are very stuck in negative moods, behaviors & relational patterns, I help them engage these through mindfulness, emotionally-focused & trauma healing therapies, which are based on understanding natural processes of healing & growth.
(720) 608-4539 View (720) 608-4539
Photo of In Focus Counseling , Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Arvada, CO
In Focus Counseling
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LAC, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80403
With many profiles, it's hard to find one you can trust and who knows the in's and out's of your suffering. Our team treats addiction, anxiety, OCD, and BFRB's for CO, MT, & KS . Does addiction and/or OCD impede what you want? We know that a life is tough to manage. It is isolating, scary, full of doubt , embarrassing, and confusing for others to understand why you just, "can't stop". We know you are having a hard time resisting the compulsions to appease OCD. Often, OCD spirals suffers into addiction. There is a way out. Together, our team will explore reducing your suffering of OCD and addiction and focus on what's important.
With many profiles, it's hard to find one you can trust and who knows the in's and out's of your suffering. Our team treats addiction, anxiety, OCD, and BFRB's for CO, MT, & KS . Does addiction and/or OCD impede what you want? We know that a life is tough to manage. It is isolating, scary, full of doubt , embarrassing, and confusing for others to understand why you just, "can't stop". We know you are having a hard time resisting the compulsions to appease OCD. Often, OCD spirals suffers into addiction. There is a way out. Together, our team will explore reducing your suffering of OCD and addiction and focus on what's important.
(720) 399-1260 View (720) 399-1260
Photo of Marc J. Coulter LPC, Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in Arvada, CO
Marc J. Coulter LPC, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MAC, CAS, NCC
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80007
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Certified Addiction Specialist, Master Addiction Counselor & Ph.
I am now trained and offer ketamine assisted psychotherapy. Feeling disconnected from life? Wanting more for yourself and loved ones? Ready to move forward? With over 20 years in the counseling field, I continue to be committed to helping clients create transformation in their lives. Working together to move beyond old patterns and ways of thinking that don't serve you. We co-create your preferred future moving toward your highest and best expression of yourself as an individual, partner, parent, child, and loved one. I offer a compassionate, safe environment for you to talk about what's important to you without fear of judgement.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Certified Addiction Specialist, Master Addiction Counselor & Ph.
I am now trained and offer ketamine assisted psychotherapy. Feeling disconnected from life? Wanting more for yourself and loved ones? Ready to move forward? With over 20 years in the counseling field, I continue to be committed to helping clients create transformation in their lives. Working together to move beyond old patterns and ways of thinking that don't serve you. We co-create your preferred future moving toward your highest and best expression of yourself as an individual, partner, parent, child, and loved one. I offer a compassionate, safe environment for you to talk about what's important to you without fear of judgement.
(303) 872-9466 View (303) 872-9466
Photo of Jaida Paolini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arvada, CO
Jaida Paolini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arvada, CO 80001
Thinking about making a change in your life? Are you ready to take the leap and start to work with a strengths based clinician who will support you on your journey?
Thinking about making a change in your life? Are you ready to take the leap and start to work with a strengths based clinician who will support you on your journey?
(857) 763-1684 View (857) 763-1684
Photo of Susan Splitt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arvada, CO
Susan Splitt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Arvada, CO 80003
I respectfully focus on the uniqueness of each individual and how they are experiencing themselves in the present moment, rather than what they have been told in the past. I am a trauma informed therapist, specializing in working with grief, loss, trauma and life transitions. My professional experience includes working in an inpatient psychiatric setting with adults with trauma, substance abuse and chronic mental health issues, working with adult survivors of childhood trauma and working as a bereavement counselor in hospice.
I respectfully focus on the uniqueness of each individual and how they are experiencing themselves in the present moment, rather than what they have been told in the past. I am a trauma informed therapist, specializing in working with grief, loss, trauma and life transitions. My professional experience includes working in an inpatient psychiatric setting with adults with trauma, substance abuse and chronic mental health issues, working with adult survivors of childhood trauma and working as a bereavement counselor in hospice.
(720) 548-1662 View (720) 548-1662
Photo of Kevin Schlegel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arvada, CO
Kevin Schlegel
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004
Dr. Schlegel's approach to therapy is pragmatic, client focused, and employs a variety of clinical interventions that target problematic behavior, cognitions, and emotional dysregulation. He takes advantage of treatments that are evidence-based, and favors interventions that address the range of factors that contribute to personal adversity. His therapeutic style is marked by mutual collaboration, fresh perspective taking, active teaching, and warm humor. He is committed to tailoring strategies to build upon client strengths while meeting each client's unique qualities, concerns, and circumstances. Providing the direction needed to not only cope, but to "own" challenges and strengths.
Dr. Schlegel's approach to therapy is pragmatic, client focused, and employs a variety of clinical interventions that target problematic behavior, cognitions, and emotional dysregulation. He takes advantage of treatments that are evidence-based, and favors interventions that address the range of factors that contribute to personal adversity. His therapeutic style is marked by mutual collaboration, fresh perspective taking, active teaching, and warm humor. He is committed to tailoring strategies to build upon client strengths while meeting each client's unique qualities, concerns, and circumstances. Providing the direction needed to not only cope, but to "own" challenges and strengths.
(720) 924-4568 View (720) 924-4568
Photo of Duane A Boyd, Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate in Arvada, CO
Duane A Boyd
Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate, MFTC
Verified Verified
Arvada, CO 80004
Duane counsels people of all ages utilizing a variety of evidence-based techniques. His passion is helping people be the best version of themselves. He does this by accepting clients for who they are and ensuring they maintain their autonomy. He is interested in helping people develop self-esteem, confidence, and satisfaction in their lives. In addition, he is skilled at drawing on each person’s resourcefulness. He helps clients connect with their loved ones and unite together to solve problems. With couples and families, Duane identifies core strengths in the relationship(s) and brings clarity to ineffective communication patterns
Duane counsels people of all ages utilizing a variety of evidence-based techniques. His passion is helping people be the best version of themselves. He does this by accepting clients for who they are and ensuring they maintain their autonomy. He is interested in helping people develop self-esteem, confidence, and satisfaction in their lives. In addition, he is skilled at drawing on each person’s resourcefulness. He helps clients connect with their loved ones and unite together to solve problems. With couples and families, Duane identifies core strengths in the relationship(s) and brings clarity to ineffective communication patterns
(720) 741-7791 View (720) 741-7791
Photo of Westside Behavioral Care - Therapists in Lakewood, Psychologist in Arvada, CO
Westside Behavioral Care - Therapists in Lakewood
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80001
Westside Behavioral Care can help you find a therapist who is just right for you or your family. Our qualified and compassionate counselors provide outstanding mental health services in-person and online across the entire Greater Denver Area. For an appointment, please call 303-986-4197 to speak with our receptionist M-F 8:30am-5pm. Alternatively, our website allows you to self-schedule with one of our multi-award-winning therapists 24/7. Our network includes licensed psychologists, clinical social workers, professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, couples counselors, and certified alcohol and drug counselors.
Westside Behavioral Care can help you find a therapist who is just right for you or your family. Our qualified and compassionate counselors provide outstanding mental health services in-person and online across the entire Greater Denver Area. For an appointment, please call 303-986-4197 to speak with our receptionist M-F 8:30am-5pm. Alternatively, our website allows you to self-schedule with one of our multi-award-winning therapists 24/7. Our network includes licensed psychologists, clinical social workers, professional counselors, marriage and family therapists, couples counselors, and certified alcohol and drug counselors.
(720) 927-9493 View (720) 927-9493
Photo of Tracy Bloom, Counselor in Arvada, CO
Tracy Bloom
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Arvada, CO 80004
Not accepting new clients
With my vast experience working with many different ages and populations I am able to identify a person’s needs and work with them in the change process by offering encouragement and without judgement. I help clients with relationship issues, life transitions, conflict resolution, grief / loss, personal growth, and life management issues such as difficulty coping, anxiety, depression, pre-marital, marital, divorce recovery, self-esteem, stress management, work/life balance, boundaries, and assertiveness skills. I enjoy working with all age groups from 10-100.
With my vast experience working with many different ages and populations I am able to identify a person’s needs and work with them in the change process by offering encouragement and without judgement. I help clients with relationship issues, life transitions, conflict resolution, grief / loss, personal growth, and life management issues such as difficulty coping, anxiety, depression, pre-marital, marital, divorce recovery, self-esteem, stress management, work/life balance, boundaries, and assertiveness skills. I enjoy working with all age groups from 10-100.
(720) 764-9373 View (720) 764-9373
Photo of Kevin Spath (E-M-D-R Trained), Counselor in Arvada, CO
Kevin Spath (E-M-D-R Trained)
Counselor, MBA, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80002
Schedule instantly through my website link in my bio! Hi, I'm Kevin. I am a licensed professional counselor candidate (LPCC) and owner of Ready to Heal, LLC. I work with adolescents, individual adults, and couples. Trauma is characterized by physical, mental, and/or emotional wounds. It can be a single event or recurring experience. It can occur in childhood/adolescence, such as physical, sexual, and emotional abuse or neglect, or adulthood, such as domestic or intimate partner violence, infidelity, sexual assault, or grief from loss I will cultivate a place where you feel unconditionally accepted without judgment, genuinely heard.
Schedule instantly through my website link in my bio! Hi, I'm Kevin. I am a licensed professional counselor candidate (LPCC) and owner of Ready to Heal, LLC. I work with adolescents, individual adults, and couples. Trauma is characterized by physical, mental, and/or emotional wounds. It can be a single event or recurring experience. It can occur in childhood/adolescence, such as physical, sexual, and emotional abuse or neglect, or adulthood, such as domestic or intimate partner violence, infidelity, sexual assault, or grief from loss I will cultivate a place where you feel unconditionally accepted without judgment, genuinely heard.
(720) 797-4544 View (720) 797-4544
Photo of John Vargas Counseling LLC, Registered Psychotherapist in Arvada, CO
John Vargas Counseling LLC
Registered Psychotherapist, MAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80002
Not accepting new clients
Could you use some time that is set apart just for you? Too often life asks you to take a back seat, to forget all the wounds and suffering that lie hidden and ignored in the back of your mind. Together we will create a space separate from your life where you can safely explore your fear, sorrow, anger and aspiration. The space that we create will generate personal clarity, confidence and support in your daily life. We accomplish this as a team by using concrete, holistic, and analytical tools to build a solid foundation of personal health.
Could you use some time that is set apart just for you? Too often life asks you to take a back seat, to forget all the wounds and suffering that lie hidden and ignored in the back of your mind. Together we will create a space separate from your life where you can safely explore your fear, sorrow, anger and aspiration. The space that we create will generate personal clarity, confidence and support in your daily life. We accomplish this as a team by using concrete, holistic, and analytical tools to build a solid foundation of personal health.
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Photo of Deborah Fishman, Psychologist in Arvada, CO
Deborah Fishman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80002
Do you need more of a sense of connection with others in your life? Are you looking for more balance and more skill in asserting your needs? Are you struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, or insecurity? Therapy can help! I work with individuals, couples, and families, helping them strengthen bonds with those most important to them. At the start of therapy, I believe it is critical to experience a good fit with your therapist in an environment that is safe, non-judgmental, and collaborative. This important connection starts the process of building deeper bonds with others.
Do you need more of a sense of connection with others in your life? Are you looking for more balance and more skill in asserting your needs? Are you struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, or insecurity? Therapy can help! I work with individuals, couples, and families, helping them strengthen bonds with those most important to them. At the start of therapy, I believe it is critical to experience a good fit with your therapist in an environment that is safe, non-judgmental, and collaborative. This important connection starts the process of building deeper bonds with others.
(303) 900-5900 View (303) 900-5900
Photo of Scarlett Betters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arvada, CO
Scarlett Betters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arvada, CO 80004  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist, my role is to guide you to achieving your personal treatment goals to live a happy & fulfilling life. I specialize in trauma and use EMDR therapy for treatment. I also have experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, life changes & transitions such as divorce, school/job changes, relocations, & friendship/relationship challenges. I meet you where you are in your journey & determine the therapeutic modality after getting to know you & your needs. I have been a Psychotherapist for over 15 years & am passionate about helping people reach their full potential in life!
As a therapist, my role is to guide you to achieving your personal treatment goals to live a happy & fulfilling life. I specialize in trauma and use EMDR therapy for treatment. I also have experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, life changes & transitions such as divorce, school/job changes, relocations, & friendship/relationship challenges. I meet you where you are in your journey & determine the therapeutic modality after getting to know you & your needs. I have been a Psychotherapist for over 15 years & am passionate about helping people reach their full potential in life!
(720) 740-8625 View (720) 740-8625
Photo of Jerry L Hamill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arvada, CO
Jerry L Hamill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPA, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Arvada, CO 80002
Now Accepting Insurance. Working with men and their most important relationships. Relationship filled with more conflict than caring? Overwhelmed by the stress and anxiety of life's challenges? Stuck in a rut that keeps repeating and stands in the way of living the life you deserve? Muscles are tight, stomach hurts, and headaches - making fun nearly impossible? Your life feels like it is without meaning or purpose? Feeling this way is exhausting. Ready to live life more abundantly? Schedule a FREE consultation today.
Now Accepting Insurance. Working with men and their most important relationships. Relationship filled with more conflict than caring? Overwhelmed by the stress and anxiety of life's challenges? Stuck in a rut that keeps repeating and stands in the way of living the life you deserve? Muscles are tight, stomach hurts, and headaches - making fun nearly impossible? Your life feels like it is without meaning or purpose? Feeling this way is exhausting. Ready to live life more abundantly? Schedule a FREE consultation today.
(720) 797-8848 View (720) 797-8848
Photo of Oak Tree Behavioral Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arvada, CO
Oak Tree Behavioral Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80005
Oak Tree Behavioral Services, Inc. is known throughout Colorado in diagnosing, and treating treating mental health conditions. Oak Tree Behavioral Services, Inc, provides: Individual Therapy, Marriage Therapy, and Testing. Interventions target problematic behavior, cognitions, and emotional dysregulation. Treatments are pragmatic, evidence-based and interventions that address the factors that contribute to the personal adversity. Therapeutic style is marked mutual collaboration, fresh perspective taking, active teaching, and warmth. Clinicians are committed to tailoring strategies to build upon client's unique qualities, concerns, and circumstances. We strive to provide the direction needed to not only cope, but to "own" challenges and strengths.
Oak Tree Behavioral Services, Inc. is known throughout Colorado in diagnosing, and treating treating mental health conditions. Oak Tree Behavioral Services, Inc, provides: Individual Therapy, Marriage Therapy, and Testing. Interventions target problematic behavior, cognitions, and emotional dysregulation. Treatments are pragmatic, evidence-based and interventions that address the factors that contribute to the personal adversity. Therapeutic style is marked mutual collaboration, fresh perspective taking, active teaching, and warmth. Clinicians are committed to tailoring strategies to build upon client's unique qualities, concerns, and circumstances. We strive to provide the direction needed to not only cope, but to "own" challenges and strengths.
(303) 622-5676 View (303) 622-5676
Photo of Indigenous Art Therapy pllc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arvada, CO
Indigenous Art Therapy pllc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Arvada, CO 80003
Indigenous Art Therapy is Native owned and two-spirit operated. Hesci! My name is Merissa. As a queer, bi-cultural woman my approach is trauma informed and intersectional, focusing on compounded challenges such as cultural background, race, sexual orientation, and gender identity. We will also focus on family systems and attachment styles. Together we will work to change patterns and defense mechanisms that may no longer serve you. We will creatively bring unconscious material into awareness offering a more balanced relationship with your Self, while integrating parts of you that have been abandoned, neglected, or forgotten.
Indigenous Art Therapy is Native owned and two-spirit operated. Hesci! My name is Merissa. As a queer, bi-cultural woman my approach is trauma informed and intersectional, focusing on compounded challenges such as cultural background, race, sexual orientation, and gender identity. We will also focus on family systems and attachment styles. Together we will work to change patterns and defense mechanisms that may no longer serve you. We will creatively bring unconscious material into awareness offering a more balanced relationship with your Self, while integrating parts of you that have been abandoned, neglected, or forgotten.
(720) 549-8679 View (720) 549-8679
Photo of Alison Shea, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arvada, CO
Alison Shea
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80002
I have healed from severe trauma, addiction, and loss, and now live a life of deep peace and joy.
Brain-Based Relationship Therapy & Sex Therapy. Couples and Individuals. My work with couples centers on improving communication, building trust, and increasing emotional and physical intimacy. Together, we co-create a relationship founded on deep love and a restored sense of playfulness and connection. By addressing the underlying relational patterns that lead to dysfunction, recurring problems are eliminated.
I have healed from severe trauma, addiction, and loss, and now live a life of deep peace and joy.
Brain-Based Relationship Therapy & Sex Therapy. Couples and Individuals. My work with couples centers on improving communication, building trust, and increasing emotional and physical intimacy. Together, we co-create a relationship founded on deep love and a restored sense of playfulness and connection. By addressing the underlying relational patterns that lead to dysfunction, recurring problems are eliminated.
(720) 802-3393 View (720) 802-3393
Photo of Nealy Beth Tobin Lofting, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arvada, CO
Nealy Beth Tobin Lofting
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80001  (Online Only)
I work with families, couples and individuals suffering from Addiction, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, self destructive behaviors, trauma and grief.
`Do you feel like no one understands you or that you struggle to understand yourself? Does anxiety overwhelm you? Is it getting in the way of sleep, relationships and decisions making? I believe it’s time to stand up to yourself and for yourself. Together, we can determine a new course for you. You don’t have to spend your life escaping a difficult reality anymore. You can learn skills to help you face reality, and enjoy the life you have.
I work with families, couples and individuals suffering from Addiction, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, self destructive behaviors, trauma and grief.
`Do you feel like no one understands you or that you struggle to understand yourself? Does anxiety overwhelm you? Is it getting in the way of sleep, relationships and decisions making? I believe it’s time to stand up to yourself and for yourself. Together, we can determine a new course for you. You don’t have to spend your life escaping a difficult reality anymore. You can learn skills to help you face reality, and enjoy the life you have.
(720) 523-9197 View (720) 523-9197
Photo of Rachel Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arvada, CO
Rachel Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80004
Love Letter to a Future Client: There is so much to be afraid of in this life, ranging from what people think of you to the fate of the human race. And yet, fear is not the answer. Fear tells us to hide, avoid, and submit. Fear tells us to avoid the things that we really want to do or be because we might fail, get hurt, or be rejected. I do not promise to erase fear. Fear is just a part of being human - I am afraid sometimes, too! What I can tell you is that I help people every day to make the choices and take the risks – even in the face of fear – that lead to a life of purpose, meaning, connection, creativity, and joy.
Love Letter to a Future Client: There is so much to be afraid of in this life, ranging from what people think of you to the fate of the human race. And yet, fear is not the answer. Fear tells us to hide, avoid, and submit. Fear tells us to avoid the things that we really want to do or be because we might fail, get hurt, or be rejected. I do not promise to erase fear. Fear is just a part of being human - I am afraid sometimes, too! What I can tell you is that I help people every day to make the choices and take the risks – even in the face of fear – that lead to a life of purpose, meaning, connection, creativity, and joy.
(720) 707-1145 View (720) 707-1145
Photo of Janelle Kramer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arvada, CO
Janelle Kramer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arvada, CO 80002  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked as a family therapist in multiple addiction treatment centers, and I am trained in couples and family therapy.
Relationships are hard work, and some days are much more overwhelming than others. When we don't feel like we are getting along with ourselves or with our loved ones, we sometimes choose to yell, scream, walk away, or freeze up. Sometimes we drink or take something else. I believe that our relationships are vital and that when we don't feel like they are going well, it can ruin our day or make us anxious. You deserve to feel comfortable with yourself and with your relationships, and exploring unhelpful patterns can start you on a different path.
I have worked as a family therapist in multiple addiction treatment centers, and I am trained in couples and family therapy.
Relationships are hard work, and some days are much more overwhelming than others. When we don't feel like we are getting along with ourselves or with our loved ones, we sometimes choose to yell, scream, walk away, or freeze up. Sometimes we drink or take something else. I believe that our relationships are vital and that when we don't feel like they are going well, it can ruin our day or make us anxious. You deserve to feel comfortable with yourself and with your relationships, and exploring unhelpful patterns can start you on a different path.
(303) 625-6304 View (303) 625-6304
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.