Addiction Counselling in Perth, WA

Photo of Lewis Dickson, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Lewis Dickson
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warwick, WA 6024
Lewis has specific interest in gambling, relationship crises, substance use disorders, as well as managing unwanted behaviors and habits, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders.
Lewis has experience across diverse client presentations and age groups and creates a supportive environment for positive change. His commitment to understanding and embracing individual differences makes him a trusted guide on the journey to psychological well-being.
Lewis has specific interest in gambling, relationship crises, substance use disorders, as well as managing unwanted behaviors and habits, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders.
Lewis has experience across diverse client presentations and age groups and creates a supportive environment for positive change. His commitment to understanding and embracing individual differences makes him a trusted guide on the journey to psychological well-being.
(08) 6219 3833 View (08) 6219 3833
Photo of Robert James Findlay - Rob Findlay Counselling, ACA-L3, Counsellor
Rob Findlay Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
I can teach grounding techniques to regulate your nervous system & emotional states to help with anxiety, depression, addiction or other unhelpful coping strategies.
People are most fulfilled when they have meaningful activity and connection to others both in immediate friends and the wider community. We’re happiest when we’re connected to others, connected to nature and have occupation/activity that means something to us. Every person is different and may take a different pathway towards self actualisation. I believe in meeting the client where they are and cooperatively choosing an approach to therapy. I am practical and client centred and believe good mental health starts with learning to regulate our emotions and nervous system.
I can teach grounding techniques to regulate your nervous system & emotional states to help with anxiety, depression, addiction or other unhelpful coping strategies.
People are most fulfilled when they have meaningful activity and connection to others both in immediate friends and the wider community. We’re happiest when we’re connected to others, connected to nature and have occupation/activity that means something to us. Every person is different and may take a different pathway towards self actualisation. I believe in meeting the client where they are and cooperatively choosing an approach to therapy. I am practical and client centred and believe good mental health starts with learning to regulate our emotions and nervous system.
(08) 6206 8920 View (08) 6206 8920
Photo of Jacinta Sfreddo, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Jacinta Sfreddo
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
I am a registered Clinical Psychologist providing evidence based psychological therapy to individuals over 18 years old. I have 10 years of experience working with people who struggle with a variety of difficulties, including: Stress, Anxiety, Mood related disorders, Addiction, Grief and loss, Trauma, Low self-worth, Personality disorders; and other behavioural and thought patterns that keep people stuck in their pain.
I am a registered Clinical Psychologist providing evidence based psychological therapy to individuals over 18 years old. I have 10 years of experience working with people who struggle with a variety of difficulties, including: Stress, Anxiety, Mood related disorders, Addiction, Grief and loss, Trauma, Low self-worth, Personality disorders; and other behavioural and thought patterns that keep people stuck in their pain.
(08) 6490 9155 View (08) 6490 9155
Photo of Skye Frizza, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Skye Frizza
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples and families overcome communication breakdowns, navigate addiction issues, changes in relationships caused by everchanging life and the changes that accompany the antenatal and postnatal journey. My approach is rooted in collaboration and evidence based practice with an emphasis on creating a non-judgmental and compassionate environment. I understand relationships play a significant role in your overall well-being, and I am committed to helping people strengthen and improve these connections.
I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples and families overcome communication breakdowns, navigate addiction issues, changes in relationships caused by everchanging life and the changes that accompany the antenatal and postnatal journey. My approach is rooted in collaboration and evidence based practice with an emphasis on creating a non-judgmental and compassionate environment. I understand relationships play a significant role in your overall well-being, and I am committed to helping people strengthen and improve these connections.
(08) 6493 7338 View (08) 6493 7338
Photo of Leesha Monson, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Leesha Monson
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Leesha is a registered Psychotherapist specialising in work with young people, women and couples. Leesha has extensive experience in the field of sexuality, addiction and disability. She is an empathetic counsellor who believes that connection and authenticity are essential elements in therapy. Leesha works in an integrative and holistic way to create a comfortable and safe environment where individuals and couples can explore effective ways to move through difficult times and challenges. Leesha provides opportunities for deep exploration of the root of old ideas which keep us stuck in patterns that no longer serve us.
Leesha is a registered Psychotherapist specialising in work with young people, women and couples. Leesha has extensive experience in the field of sexuality, addiction and disability. She is an empathetic counsellor who believes that connection and authenticity are essential elements in therapy. Leesha works in an integrative and holistic way to create a comfortable and safe environment where individuals and couples can explore effective ways to move through difficult times and challenges. Leesha provides opportunities for deep exploration of the root of old ideas which keep us stuck in patterns that no longer serve us.
(08) 6206 8047 View (08) 6206 8047
Photo of Stuart Burling - The Bear Counselling, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Stuart Burling - The Bear Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Wembley, WA 6014
To provide relief from symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, disconnection, grief and loss, suicide, addiction, and relationship issues including affairs and the impacts of separation and parental alienation.
If you are struggling, feeling lost, in conflict with yourself or loved ones, grieving or looking for meaning and purpose, please reach out. I aim to support people in need, to listen, and hold space for sharing difficult life experiences. I, too, have endured adversity, and in my darkest hours, I found the courage to reach out and seek the support I need. Through lived experience of addiction, suicide, FDV, narcissism, divorce, and parent alienation combined with expertise in counselling and specialist therapy knowledge, I focus on rebuilding lives and relationships, instilling hope when all seems lost.
To provide relief from symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, disconnection, grief and loss, suicide, addiction, and relationship issues including affairs and the impacts of separation and parental alienation.
If you are struggling, feeling lost, in conflict with yourself or loved ones, grieving or looking for meaning and purpose, please reach out. I aim to support people in need, to listen, and hold space for sharing difficult life experiences. I, too, have endured adversity, and in my darkest hours, I found the courage to reach out and seek the support I need. Through lived experience of addiction, suicide, FDV, narcissism, divorce, and parent alienation combined with expertise in counselling and specialist therapy knowledge, I focus on rebuilding lives and relationships, instilling hope when all seems lost.
(08) 6120 1781 View (08) 6120 1781
Photo of Vicki Roxburgh, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Vicki Roxburgh
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
West Perth, WA 6005
Vicki has extensive experience assisting adults with a variety of presenting issues including: anxiety, depression, trauma, interpersonal and relationship difficulties, addiction, adjustment issues, grief and loss. She has a warm and client-centred approach and is passionate about building trust and safety in the client-therapist relationship. She utilises a variety of evidence-based approaches and will tailor therapy to meet the individual treatment needs of each client. Vicki has a special interest in schema therapy and assisting people to recover from attachment issues that developed early in life.
Vicki has extensive experience assisting adults with a variety of presenting issues including: anxiety, depression, trauma, interpersonal and relationship difficulties, addiction, adjustment issues, grief and loss. She has a warm and client-centred approach and is passionate about building trust and safety in the client-therapist relationship. She utilises a variety of evidence-based approaches and will tailor therapy to meet the individual treatment needs of each client. Vicki has a special interest in schema therapy and assisting people to recover from attachment issues that developed early in life.
(08) 6490 9753 View (08) 6490 9753
Photo of Amy Bain, MA, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Amy Bain
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Coolbinia, WA 6050
Welcome and thank you for visiting my page. The initial step towards growth and healing can often be daunting so rest assured that you are in safe and capable hands. I understand that life can be difficult and painful and sometimes you don't even know where to start. My work centers mostly around trauma recovery (PTSD - acute and complex, attachment/relational), grief and loss, addiction recovery and mental health. Working with both men and women I offer an eclectic approach to counselling where collaboration is at the center. Working with you at your own pace, to achieve meaning growth.
Welcome and thank you for visiting my page. The initial step towards growth and healing can often be daunting so rest assured that you are in safe and capable hands. I understand that life can be difficult and painful and sometimes you don't even know where to start. My work centers mostly around trauma recovery (PTSD - acute and complex, attachment/relational), grief and loss, addiction recovery and mental health. Working with both men and women I offer an eclectic approach to counselling where collaboration is at the center. Working with you at your own pace, to achieve meaning growth.
(08) 6493 7002 View (08) 6493 7002
Photo of Chelsea Wylde, PACFA, Counsellor
Chelsea Wylde
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mundaring, WA 6073
I have experience working as an Alcohol and Other Drug Clinician, supporting individuals who are struggling with substance use and co-occurring issues such as mental ill health, trauma and PTSD, conflict in relationships, and legal, housing and financial problems.
I am a Registered Counsellor with a passion for supporting individuals, families, and communities in pursuing a purpose-filled life that fosters ongoing growth in self-awareness, connection to values, and a sense of meaning, belonging, and wholeness. I draw from a selection of modalities such as Acceptance Commitment Therapy, TRE (trauma release/tension reduction exercises), Family Systems, and I integrate a whole-body approach to healing (body, mind, spirit/soul, community), wellbeing, and ultimate flourishing.
I have experience working as an Alcohol and Other Drug Clinician, supporting individuals who are struggling with substance use and co-occurring issues such as mental ill health, trauma and PTSD, conflict in relationships, and legal, housing and financial problems.
I am a Registered Counsellor with a passion for supporting individuals, families, and communities in pursuing a purpose-filled life that fosters ongoing growth in self-awareness, connection to values, and a sense of meaning, belonging, and wholeness. I draw from a selection of modalities such as Acceptance Commitment Therapy, TRE (trauma release/tension reduction exercises), Family Systems, and I integrate a whole-body approach to healing (body, mind, spirit/soul, community), wellbeing, and ultimate flourishing.
(08) 6171 2271 View (08) 6171 2271
Photo of Kerryn Ashford-Hatherly - Ashcliffe Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Ashcliffe Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
West Perth, WA 6005
Specific treatment interventions provided by Ashcliffe:  MATRIX PROGRAM Intensive Outpatient Treatment of Addiction  COACHING: Solution Focused Cognitive Behavioural Coaching  CBT PROGRAMS in Anger Management / Depression & Mood disorders / Anxiety  CBTi Overcoming Insomnia Sleep Program .
ASHCLIFFE PSYCHOLOGY is a private clinical psychology practice offering a broad range of psychological services. The Ashcliffe Psychology practice is comprised of a team of Psychologist’s offering a variety of areas of expertise. The Directors, Kerryn Ashford-Hatherly and Michael Tunnecliffe have between them more than 50 years of clinical experience and both have worked in senior management roles within government, non-government agencies and the private sector.
Specific treatment interventions provided by Ashcliffe:  MATRIX PROGRAM Intensive Outpatient Treatment of Addiction  COACHING: Solution Focused Cognitive Behavioural Coaching  CBT PROGRAMS in Anger Management / Depression & Mood disorders / Anxiety  CBTi Overcoming Insomnia Sleep Program .
ASHCLIFFE PSYCHOLOGY is a private clinical psychology practice offering a broad range of psychological services. The Ashcliffe Psychology practice is comprised of a team of Psychologist’s offering a variety of areas of expertise. The Directors, Kerryn Ashford-Hatherly and Michael Tunnecliffe have between them more than 50 years of clinical experience and both have worked in senior management roles within government, non-government agencies and the private sector.
(08) 6118 6472 View (08) 6118 6472
Photo of Cheryl Dawn Pratt - Traumawise, PACFA, Counsellor
Traumawise
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
I am Cheryl Pratt, an experienced clinical counsellor based in Fremantle. If you are struggling with phobias, fears, addiction, anxiety, trauma or PTSD I can offer you support and tangible solutions to alleviate discomfort and suffering. I use a range of modalities but prefer the evidence based therapy EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) because it produces such positive outcomes for my clients. I have more than 25 years' experience working in schools, TAFE, addiction treatment centres, mental health settings and private practice. I will collaborate with you to achieve the results you desire.
I am Cheryl Pratt, an experienced clinical counsellor based in Fremantle. If you are struggling with phobias, fears, addiction, anxiety, trauma or PTSD I can offer you support and tangible solutions to alleviate discomfort and suffering. I use a range of modalities but prefer the evidence based therapy EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) because it produces such positive outcomes for my clients. I have more than 25 years' experience working in schools, TAFE, addiction treatment centres, mental health settings and private practice. I will collaborate with you to achieve the results you desire.
0478 748 942 View 0478 748 942
Photo of Brad Middleton, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Brad Middleton
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Treatment for Sex & Porn Addiction should be individualized, and requires significant psycho-education.
While it's natural to engage in pleasurable activities & behaviours, when that engagement becomes compulsive, overwhelming, and out-of-control, the negative consequences can become destructive & unmanageable, especially when addicted to Sex & Porn. We sometimes adopt these behaviours as a means of gaining momentary relief from any pain, anxiety, or trauma that exists in our lives, but regularly feel intense shame and despair after acting out sexually. Then, shame & isolation serve to maintain the addictive cycle, as the problem becomes more complex & often impacts our intimate partner. Don't despair: Help and recovery is available!
Treatment for Sex & Porn Addiction should be individualized, and requires significant psycho-education.
While it's natural to engage in pleasurable activities & behaviours, when that engagement becomes compulsive, overwhelming, and out-of-control, the negative consequences can become destructive & unmanageable, especially when addicted to Sex & Porn. We sometimes adopt these behaviours as a means of gaining momentary relief from any pain, anxiety, or trauma that exists in our lives, but regularly feel intense shame and despair after acting out sexually. Then, shame & isolation serve to maintain the addictive cycle, as the problem becomes more complex & often impacts our intimate partner. Don't despair: Help and recovery is available!
(08) 6118 7606 View (08) 6118 7606
Photo of Paris Matthews, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Paris Matthews
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Winthrop, WA 6150
As a Psychologist, I passionately believe that we as humans already hold the potential and resilience to be able to heal ourselves. I will work with you in a holistic and judgement-free way for you to be able to build upon your skills to be able to cope with the challenges that life presents to us. This is your journey, and I will be your guide. I have experience working with vulnerable populations within Government sectors of Disability Royal Commission, Child Protective Services and also Corrective Services, where I supported individuals with neurodiversity, couples and families, in addition to people experiencing addiction.
As a Psychologist, I passionately believe that we as humans already hold the potential and resilience to be able to heal ourselves. I will work with you in a holistic and judgement-free way for you to be able to build upon your skills to be able to cope with the challenges that life presents to us. This is your journey, and I will be your guide. I have experience working with vulnerable populations within Government sectors of Disability Royal Commission, Child Protective Services and also Corrective Services, where I supported individuals with neurodiversity, couples and families, in addition to people experiencing addiction.
(08) 6171 2171 View (08) 6171 2171
Photo of Bronte Galek - Anahata counselling, MC, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Anahata counselling
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Verified Verified
Online Only
I can support you with a range of issues such as Addiction/ substance dependence of yourself or loved one, Anger, Anxiety, Cultural issues, Depression, Expat related concerns, Family/parenting, Grief and loss, Life transitions, Low self-esteem, Mental health concerns, Relational stressors, Stress and Trauma.
I am an experienced psychotherapist and counsellor specialising in addiction and trauma. With a strong person-centered and holistic approach, I combine various therapeutic techniques to encourage one’s healing and understanding of self. I aim to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore all facets of themselves, supporting them to find peace and stability amidst life’s challenges. I can work with you on a range of life's issues and I am deeply committed to creating safety and care within the therapeutic relationship. There is no need to struggle alone.
I can support you with a range of issues such as Addiction/ substance dependence of yourself or loved one, Anger, Anxiety, Cultural issues, Depression, Expat related concerns, Family/parenting, Grief and loss, Life transitions, Low self-esteem, Mental health concerns, Relational stressors, Stress and Trauma.
I am an experienced psychotherapist and counsellor specialising in addiction and trauma. With a strong person-centered and holistic approach, I combine various therapeutic techniques to encourage one’s healing and understanding of self. I aim to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore all facets of themselves, supporting them to find peace and stability amidst life’s challenges. I can work with you on a range of life's issues and I am deeply committed to creating safety and care within the therapeutic relationship. There is no need to struggle alone.
(08) 7078 8233 View (08) 7078 8233
Photo of Tammy Maskill, Counsellor
Tammy Maskill
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work primarily with trauma, alcohol and other drug use and behavioural addictions. I work with you to shed the layers of your trauma, heal unresolved wounds, and create a life that you don’t need to numb yourself to and escape from. With lived experience of trauma and substance addiction, I understand how trauma, especially from our childhood, can impact every aspect of our lives. And, how we can easily find ourselves trying to cope with behaviours that become more and more problematic.
I work primarily with trauma, alcohol and other drug use and behavioural addictions. I work with you to shed the layers of your trauma, heal unresolved wounds, and create a life that you don’t need to numb yourself to and escape from. With lived experience of trauma and substance addiction, I understand how trauma, especially from our childhood, can impact every aspect of our lives. And, how we can easily find ourselves trying to cope with behaviours that become more and more problematic.
(03) 9118 9023 View (03) 9118 9023
Photo of Francesca Palazzolo, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Francesca Palazzolo
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000
If you are struggling with any addictive behaviours, including a porn or sex addiction, (or have concerns about a partner/family member) please reach out for non-judgemental support.
I am a counsellor & psychotherapist working in the existential humanist tradition. I work with all sorts of issues including mental health, addictive behaviours and relationship issues to name a few. I am registered with PACFA (Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation Australia) which is the national peak body for counsellors and psychotherapists in Australia and have worked in youth mental health, alcohol and other drugs counselling and trauma informed counselling. If you are experiencing issues with any emotional concerns, anxiety, substance use, addiction, including behavioural addictions, please do not hesitate to reach out.
If you are struggling with any addictive behaviours, including a porn or sex addiction, (or have concerns about a partner/family member) please reach out for non-judgemental support.
I am a counsellor & psychotherapist working in the existential humanist tradition. I work with all sorts of issues including mental health, addictive behaviours and relationship issues to name a few. I am registered with PACFA (Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation Australia) which is the national peak body for counsellors and psychotherapists in Australia and have worked in youth mental health, alcohol and other drugs counselling and trauma informed counselling. If you are experiencing issues with any emotional concerns, anxiety, substance use, addiction, including behavioural addictions, please do not hesitate to reach out.
(03) 6411 0202 View (03) 6411 0202
Photo of Dr Astrid Staley - Online Trauma Brainspotting Counsellor, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Online Trauma Brainspotting Counsellor
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Brainspotting liberates brains from irrational fears, addiction, PTSD, OCD eating disorders, anxiety, & resolves trauma.
Dr Astrid Staley has 15+ years of experience using talk therapies, Neuropsychotherapy & Brainspotting, a cutting-edge therapy to move people toward optimal functioning. Her experience extends to Christian & non-Christian contexts. Choose a preferred style to support a holistic approach to wellbeing in body, mind, spirit. Counselling/Coaching/ Supervision packages. Specialised ages 16+ ADHD Coaching/ Counselling support & Eating Disorder Recovery Coaching/Counselling support. Neuro Change Personal Development Coaching/Counselling package. Supporting clients 16+ years.
Brainspotting liberates brains from irrational fears, addiction, PTSD, OCD eating disorders, anxiety, & resolves trauma.
Dr Astrid Staley has 15+ years of experience using talk therapies, Neuropsychotherapy & Brainspotting, a cutting-edge therapy to move people toward optimal functioning. Her experience extends to Christian & non-Christian contexts. Choose a preferred style to support a holistic approach to wellbeing in body, mind, spirit. Counselling/Coaching/ Supervision packages. Specialised ages 16+ ADHD Coaching/ Counselling support & Eating Disorder Recovery Coaching/Counselling support. Neuro Change Personal Development Coaching/Counselling package. Supporting clients 16+ years.
(03) 5615 6373 View (03) 5615 6373
Photo of Jana Maddock - Jana Maddock Counselling, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Jana Maddock Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there, I'm Jana, a registered Psychotherapist/Counsellor with a B.Couns. and M.A.C.A. level 4 certification. My practice focuses on supporting young adults, adults, and couples, offering support for various issues including Trauma Counselling, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Abuse, Self Harm and Relationship issues.
Hi there, I'm Jana, a registered Psychotherapist/Counsellor with a B.Couns. and M.A.C.A. level 4 certification. My practice focuses on supporting young adults, adults, and couples, offering support for various issues including Trauma Counselling, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Abuse, Self Harm and Relationship issues.
(07) 5241 1842 View (07) 5241 1842
Photo of Ingrid Glanowski - Emotional Growth, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Ingrid Glanowski - Emotional Growth
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
She works with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, stress, childhood trauma, addiction, self-esteem and grief.
Ingrid is registered psychologist who provides in person therapy to clients in Melbourne and online therapy to clients Australia wide. In therapy, the environment Ingrid creates is compassionate, animated and genuine. She enjoys building long-lasting and meaningful connections with clients, knowing that this can be a catalyst for a successful experience in therapy. Ingrid is specifically interested in clients who present with developmental/relational-trauma and utilises her knowledge of attachment theory and family systems to help clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves.
She works with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, stress, childhood trauma, addiction, self-esteem and grief.
Ingrid is registered psychologist who provides in person therapy to clients in Melbourne and online therapy to clients Australia wide. In therapy, the environment Ingrid creates is compassionate, animated and genuine. She enjoys building long-lasting and meaningful connections with clients, knowing that this can be a catalyst for a successful experience in therapy. Ingrid is specifically interested in clients who present with developmental/relational-trauma and utilises her knowledge of attachment theory and family systems to help clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves.
(03) 9994 1814 View (03) 9994 1814
Photo of johanna Waugh - Johanna - Counsellor/ Psychosexual therapist , MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Johanna - Counsellor/ Psychosexual therapist
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000
Working with singles, couples, and families is Johanna's primary focus. She also works with men and women experiencing problems related to their sexual health, including erectile dysfunction and delayed ejaculation. For women, she treats low sexual desire, fertility issues, conception-related misconceptions, hypoactive sexual desire disorder, and out-of-control sexual behaviours like sex, porn addiction. Johanna is accommodating to sex workers. Additionally, she is LGBTQ, kink, and fetish friendly, and she can work with poly/open partnerships
Working with singles, couples, and families is Johanna's primary focus. She also works with men and women experiencing problems related to their sexual health, including erectile dysfunction and delayed ejaculation. For women, she treats low sexual desire, fertility issues, conception-related misconceptions, hypoactive sexual desire disorder, and out-of-control sexual behaviours like sex, porn addiction. Johanna is accommodating to sex workers. Additionally, she is LGBTQ, kink, and fetish friendly, and she can work with poly/open partnerships
(02) 9100 0121 View (02) 9100 0121
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Addiction Counsellors

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.