Addiction Counselling / Substance Abuse Counselling
I will help you examine your thoughts and emotions and learn how these inner experiences affect your behaviour and how you interact with others.
Overcoming addiction takes time and commitment. Manage cravings and the temptation to act in harmful ways is crucial to meet your basic needs and achieve a healthy lifestyle. I will help your focus on your strengths to discover new coping mechanisms.
What is an Addiction or Substance Abuse Problem?
Addiction is a complex condition that is manifested by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequences.
Drugs and alcohol are common addictions; however, there are many types, including food addictions, exercise addictions, sex addictions, gambling addictions. With effective treatment, people can recover from addiction and lead healthy, productive lives.
Typical symptoms of addiction are:
- Cravings
- Loss of control of the frequency of use
- Compulsion to use
- Continued use despite negative consequences
- Injuries while under the influence
- Anxiety, irritability or depression
- Blackouts
- Relationship issues
- Spending money on substances rather than on food, rent or other essentials
- Legal issues related to substance use
- Loss of hope
- Feelings of emptiness
Your first session involves an initial assessment of your well-being and a thorough intake of your personal history and background. Subsequent therapy sessions are 60 minutes in length and are unique to each treatment plan.