Addiction Therapists in Kitchener, ON

Photo of Robert E. McArthur, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor in Kitchener, ON
Robert E. McArthur
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, RSSW, CCAC, ICADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2E
Robert grew up in an alcoholic home, and then became a substance abuser himself. In 1988 he embarked on a road to recovery. Since becoming clean and sober, Robert returned to school and with his education and experience, he began working in the addiction profession in 1990. He has experience with in-patient, outpatient, individual & group counselling, as well as lecturing and facilitating workshops. Using his educational background accompanied with his addiction experience, he is helping others on their own road to recovery. He is now an International Certified Alcohol and Drug Counsellor and is a Canadian Certified Addiction Counsellor.
Robert grew up in an alcoholic home, and then became a substance abuser himself. In 1988 he embarked on a road to recovery. Since becoming clean and sober, Robert returned to school and with his education and experience, he began working in the addiction profession in 1990. He has experience with in-patient, outpatient, individual & group counselling, as well as lecturing and facilitating workshops. Using his educational background accompanied with his addiction experience, he is helping others on their own road to recovery. He is now an International Certified Alcohol and Drug Counsellor and is a Canadian Certified Addiction Counsellor.
(519) 635-5622 View (519) 635-5622
Photo of Lawrence Addiction Counselling, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor in Kitchener, ON
Lawrence Addiction Counselling
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, CCPCPR, RPC, CCAC, CIAS II, CAC II
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2M
Addiction affects all areas of peoples lives. Addiction is a bio, physical , mental and spiritual issue which needs to be repaired to give people an improvement in their daily tasks. There are a great number of proven methods to help someone suffering from a chemical addiction. I will give resources and options based on the clients needs to provide support to navigate these options. My services are client based and best practises are in place.
Addiction affects all areas of peoples lives. Addiction is a bio, physical , mental and spiritual issue which needs to be repaired to give people an improvement in their daily tasks. There are a great number of proven methods to help someone suffering from a chemical addiction. I will give resources and options based on the clients needs to provide support to navigate these options. My services are client based and best practises are in place.
(226) 773-2348 View (226) 773-2348
Photo of First Step Men's Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Kitchener, ON
First Step Men's Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RP, ASAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H  (Online Only)
Our specializations include: sexual addiction, gambling, grief, life transitions, divorce, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, anger management, alcohol use, sex therapy, anxiety, infidelity, depression, and men's issues.
Men - it doesn't have to be this way! Are you feeling disconnected to yourself, loved ones, or society? Do you question whether you are a good father, son, or partner? Do you feel angry, stuck, overwhelmed, powerless, guilty, or "not normal". Many men struggle with their mental health without seeking help or reaching out for support. Often, this struggle may lead to addiction, anxiety, depression, shame, suicidal ideation, poor relationships, grief, low self-esteem, or low self-worth. First Step Men's Therapy offers a safe, warm, and inviting space for men to heal, learn, and grow. Book a free 20-minute consultation with us today!
Our specializations include: sexual addiction, gambling, grief, life transitions, divorce, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, anger management, alcohol use, sex therapy, anxiety, infidelity, depression, and men's issues.
Men - it doesn't have to be this way! Are you feeling disconnected to yourself, loved ones, or society? Do you question whether you are a good father, son, or partner? Do you feel angry, stuck, overwhelmed, powerless, guilty, or "not normal". Many men struggle with their mental health without seeking help or reaching out for support. Often, this struggle may lead to addiction, anxiety, depression, shame, suicidal ideation, poor relationships, grief, low self-esteem, or low self-worth. First Step Men's Therapy offers a safe, warm, and inviting space for men to heal, learn, and grow. Book a free 20-minute consultation with us today!
(289) 272-9113 View (289) 272-9113
Photo of Jeremy McGregor, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Kitchener, ON
Jeremy McGregor
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2R  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you have been struggling for years with addiction, anxiety, symptoms of depression, or other mental health difficulties, or have just recently become aware of a desire to change your life in some way, you deserve support. My name is Jeremy McGregor and I am a registered psychotherapist who regularly supports clients with a wide range of life challenges, specifically in the field of addiction and mood related issues. I specialize in helping clients make changes to substance use habits, gain control over anxious and/or depressive thinking, and/or improve stress management and emotion regulation skills.
Whether you have been struggling for years with addiction, anxiety, symptoms of depression, or other mental health difficulties, or have just recently become aware of a desire to change your life in some way, you deserve support. My name is Jeremy McGregor and I am a registered psychotherapist who regularly supports clients with a wide range of life challenges, specifically in the field of addiction and mood related issues. I specialize in helping clients make changes to substance use habits, gain control over anxious and/or depressive thinking, and/or improve stress management and emotion regulation skills.
(226) 286-8584 View (226) 286-8584
Photo of A J H M Counselling - Addictions And Mental Health, Registered Social Worker in Kitchener, ON
A J H M Counselling - Addictions And Mental Health
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2H
Working with substance use and addictions has been a great passion of mine for the past 8 years and I am eager to work with you! Have substances or addictive behaviours been causing you problems? Do you continue to engage in the behaviour even when you say you won’t? Do you find that once you start it’s hard to stop? Have people in your life complained about your behaviour? Are you struggling with your loved one’s substance use or behaviour? If you find any of these fit, then I may be able to help you.
Working with substance use and addictions has been a great passion of mine for the past 8 years and I am eager to work with you! Have substances or addictive behaviours been causing you problems? Do you continue to engage in the behaviour even when you say you won’t? Do you find that once you start it’s hard to stop? Have people in your life complained about your behaviour? Are you struggling with your loved one’s substance use or behaviour? If you find any of these fit, then I may be able to help you.
(548) 490-8859 View (548) 490-8859
Photo of Janine Fischer, Registered Social Worker in Kitchener, ON
Janine Fischer
Registered Social Worker, RP, CPGC, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
Waitlist for new clients
Through my work I believe that compassion and empathy are two of the most important qualities when seeking support. From time to time life can feel overwhelming and heavy, due to many of the experiences that we are faced with from Life Transitions, Substance Use (or Abuse), Gambling/Gaming Concerns, Trauma Events, or Mental Health Concerns; I am here to support you through it. I provide both individual and family therapy.
Through my work I believe that compassion and empathy are two of the most important qualities when seeking support. From time to time life can feel overwhelming and heavy, due to many of the experiences that we are faced with from Life Transitions, Substance Use (or Abuse), Gambling/Gaming Concerns, Trauma Events, or Mental Health Concerns; I am here to support you through it. I provide both individual and family therapy.
(844) 462-8447 View (844) 462-8447
Photo of Colleen Fava Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Kitchener, ON
Colleen Fava Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, BA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2B
Currently accepting new clients for phone, online or in-person sessions. Feeling overwhelmed by life and the monotony of the daily grind? Are stress, depression, anxiety, anger, sadness, grief, loss or addiction getting in the way of your happiness? Are you having relationship or family issues or going through a tough transition? Through a mindfulness-based approach, my hope is to help you with your challenges by empowering you with new tools. I offer a safe and calm space to help with your healing process. Sometimes starting therapy may feel scary and daunting - am here to help support you with this.Connect for a free consultation.
Currently accepting new clients for phone, online or in-person sessions. Feeling overwhelmed by life and the monotony of the daily grind? Are stress, depression, anxiety, anger, sadness, grief, loss or addiction getting in the way of your happiness? Are you having relationship or family issues or going through a tough transition? Through a mindfulness-based approach, my hope is to help you with your challenges by empowering you with new tools. I offer a safe and calm space to help with your healing process. Sometimes starting therapy may feel scary and daunting - am here to help support you with this.Connect for a free consultation.
(647) 559-2410 View (647) 559-2410
Photo of Paul Radkowski, Registered Psychotherapist in Kitchener, ON
Paul Radkowski
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
Recipient of the "Outstanding Addictions Professional Award" from the International Association of Addiction & Offender Counselors and "Outstanding Service & Contribution in the Field of Mental Health" award from the Ontario Association of Consultants, Counsellors, Psychometrists & Psychotherapists .
As an internationally awarded registered psychotherapist, I help clients redefine how they live their lives. I enjoy working with older children, adolescents, couples, families as well as individual adults. I will help you to challenge the problematic assumptions and ways of being that prevent you from realizing the full potential of your life. I work from a collaborative stance that assumes you are the expert on your life and share my own expertise in helping people overcome emotional problems, troublesome habits and relationship roadblocks to help you create new solutions to what used to be old problems.
Recipient of the "Outstanding Addictions Professional Award" from the International Association of Addiction & Offender Counselors and "Outstanding Service & Contribution in the Field of Mental Health" award from the Ontario Association of Consultants, Counsellors, Psychometrists & Psychotherapists .
As an internationally awarded registered psychotherapist, I help clients redefine how they live their lives. I enjoy working with older children, adolescents, couples, families as well as individual adults. I will help you to challenge the problematic assumptions and ways of being that prevent you from realizing the full potential of your life. I work from a collaborative stance that assumes you are the expert on your life and share my own expertise in helping people overcome emotional problems, troublesome habits and relationship roadblocks to help you create new solutions to what used to be old problems.
(519) 900-1608 View (519) 900-1608
Photo of Judy Barnes, Registered Social Worker in Kitchener, ON
Judy Barnes
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2G
Whether you are struggling with mental health/addiction issues or wanting to address root causes of your maladaptive thinking/behaviours such as addressing out-dated core beliefs; insecure attachment style or wanting a non-judgemental sounding-board please reach out.
Welcoming new Clients! Judy believes that we are all "In Recovery" from something whether from addictions, dysregulated emotions, workaholism, anxiety, stress, insomnia, trauma, grief, abuse, ill health, depression, burn-out, broken-hearts.......... "In Recovery" means becoming aware of behaviours/thoughts/feelings that hurt us at the core of our being and committing to a new path of change/growth and healing. Judy is a member in good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers and the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers. She is also a member of the Ontario Association of Social Workers
Whether you are struggling with mental health/addiction issues or wanting to address root causes of your maladaptive thinking/behaviours such as addressing out-dated core beliefs; insecure attachment style or wanting a non-judgemental sounding-board please reach out.
Welcoming new Clients! Judy believes that we are all "In Recovery" from something whether from addictions, dysregulated emotions, workaholism, anxiety, stress, insomnia, trauma, grief, abuse, ill health, depression, burn-out, broken-hearts.......... "In Recovery" means becoming aware of behaviours/thoughts/feelings that hurt us at the core of our being and committing to a new path of change/growth and healing. Judy is a member in good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers and the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers. She is also a member of the Ontario Association of Social Workers
(226) 212-7759 View (226) 212-7759
Photo of Wendi Woo - Psychological Services, Psychological Associate in Kitchener, ON
Wendi Woo - Psychological Services
Psychological Associate, MA, CPsych, Assoc
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2B
I am a Registered Clinical Psychological Associate who has been providing psychological services to adults with a range of difficulties and diagnoses including PTSD, anxiety and mood disorders, addiction, self-esteem issues, and stress related difficulties for more than 25 years.
Life isn't always easy. It is full of stressors big and small. Some are predictable. Others are totally unexpected. And some are cumulative in that we don't even know that we are being impacted until that day that we hit the wall and find that we just aren't functioning the way we want. We try everything we know to get through tough times, to change how we are feeling, acting, and thinking, but sometimes we need a little extra help.
I am a Registered Clinical Psychological Associate who has been providing psychological services to adults with a range of difficulties and diagnoses including PTSD, anxiety and mood disorders, addiction, self-esteem issues, and stress related difficulties for more than 25 years.
Life isn't always easy. It is full of stressors big and small. Some are predictable. Others are totally unexpected. And some are cumulative in that we don't even know that we are being impacted until that day that we hit the wall and find that we just aren't functioning the way we want. We try everything we know to get through tough times, to change how we are feeling, acting, and thinking, but sometimes we need a little extra help.
(844) 543-7982 View (844) 543-7982
Photo of Daniel Bader, Registered Social Worker in Kitchener, ON
Daniel Bader
Registered Social Worker, PhD, RSW, MSW, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, addiction, obsessive-compulsive disorder, grief, and spiritual counselling.
I believe that a fulfilling life comes from integrating all parts of ourselves: our beliefs, our emotions, our behaviour, and our relationships. Forming a strong relationship with my clients, I help them to discover where their strengths lie, and how best to apply them to the areas that need more attention.
I specialize in bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, addiction, obsessive-compulsive disorder, grief, and spiritual counselling.
I believe that a fulfilling life comes from integrating all parts of ourselves: our beliefs, our emotions, our behaviour, and our relationships. Forming a strong relationship with my clients, I help them to discover where their strengths lie, and how best to apply them to the areas that need more attention.
(855) 727-4535 View (855) 727-4535
Photo of Noella Taylor, Registered Social Worker in Kitchener, ON
Noella Taylor
Registered Social Worker, MA, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2A  (Online Only)
For over 30 years, I have worked with those struggling with addiction, trauma, and mental health difficulties.
Currently Accepting New Clients! Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of behaviour that leads to distress? Are you feeling discouraged and judged? Please know that you deserve to be your best self. Asking for help is the first step on the path to becoming the person that you want to be. My approach is supportive and nonjudgmental. I will work with you to help you achieve meaningful change at a pace that is comfortable for you. My clients find my knowledge, skill, sense of humour, and my ability to connect has made a significant difference on their journey to health. You don't have to do it alone. I am here to help you.
For over 30 years, I have worked with those struggling with addiction, trauma, and mental health difficulties.
Currently Accepting New Clients! Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of behaviour that leads to distress? Are you feeling discouraged and judged? Please know that you deserve to be your best self. Asking for help is the first step on the path to becoming the person that you want to be. My approach is supportive and nonjudgmental. I will work with you to help you achieve meaningful change at a pace that is comfortable for you. My clients find my knowledge, skill, sense of humour, and my ability to connect has made a significant difference on their journey to health. You don't have to do it alone. I am here to help you.
(226) 639-5132 View (226) 639-5132
Photo of Mind and Wellness Counselling Services, Registered Psychotherapist in Kitchener, ON
Mind and Wellness Counselling Services
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2B
I work with major psychiatric disorders, trauma, emotion regulation, substance use, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship and work-related stress, chronic pain and grief.
I am a registered psychotherapist with an integrative approach. My counseling considers all aspects of health: mind, body, and spirit. I believe in the inherent dignity and strength of the human person. I draw on these to help you manage your challenges and transitions, and to find new balance and purpose in life. I worked at CMHAWW, where I specialized in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy. I have also worked in the addictions programs at St. Michael's Hospital and Humber River Hospital, where I specialized in concurrent disorders.
I work with major psychiatric disorders, trauma, emotion regulation, substance use, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship and work-related stress, chronic pain and grief.
I am a registered psychotherapist with an integrative approach. My counseling considers all aspects of health: mind, body, and spirit. I believe in the inherent dignity and strength of the human person. I draw on these to help you manage your challenges and transitions, and to find new balance and purpose in life. I worked at CMHAWW, where I specialized in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy. I have also worked in the addictions programs at St. Michael's Hospital and Humber River Hospital, where I specialized in concurrent disorders.
(226) 894-3995 View (226) 894-3995
Photo of Spacious Mind Counselling in Kitchener, ON
Spacious Mind Counselling
MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2A
Helping people who are struggling with anxiety, relationship issues, addiction, depression, low motivation, post partum concerns, trauma, men's issues or sexual health are part of what we specialise in at Spacious Mind Counselling.
We know that life can be very challenging at times and that the obstacles can seem overwhelming when facing them on your own. The therapists at Spacious Mind Counselling have been through their own trials and tribulations and have benefited from their own personal therapy during difficult times. We know that you are the expert in your life and that with the right conditions you can overcome the obstacles and challenges. We aim to provide a safe, non judgemental space where you can begin to understand the challenges for what they are and get back to living a rich and meaning full life. We do this by listening, asking questions and then creating goals with you that are in line with your values. Sometimes skills and tools are needed and other times processing traumas and unresolved emotions are needed. We will always follow your lead and provide insight and knowledge when you need it during sessions.
Helping people who are struggling with anxiety, relationship issues, addiction, depression, low motivation, post partum concerns, trauma, men's issues or sexual health are part of what we specialise in at Spacious Mind Counselling.
We know that life can be very challenging at times and that the obstacles can seem overwhelming when facing them on your own. The therapists at Spacious Mind Counselling have been through their own trials and tribulations and have benefited from their own personal therapy during difficult times. We know that you are the expert in your life and that with the right conditions you can overcome the obstacles and challenges. We aim to provide a safe, non judgemental space where you can begin to understand the challenges for what they are and get back to living a rich and meaning full life. We do this by listening, asking questions and then creating goals with you that are in line with your values. Sometimes skills and tools are needed and other times processing traumas and unresolved emotions are needed. We will always follow your lead and provide insight and knowledge when you need it during sessions.
(548) 483-6483 View (548) 483-6483
Photo of Carla Jordan, Registered Psychotherapist in Kitchener, ON
Carla Jordan
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2A  (Online Only)
For over 20 years I have worked in the field of Addiction and Mental Health.
Is there something in your life you are struggling with? Something you feel is in your way and you are not sure where to start? Choosing to come to therapy can be the first step in a profound journey of discovery and transition. That first step is one of courage, and a willingness to be vulnerable. Every person brings a different story to therapy, and my goal as a therapist is to create a safe space for you to explore your full self and concerns. You can expect that I will respect your own personal journey and that your personal goals will be heard and worked toward.
For over 20 years I have worked in the field of Addiction and Mental Health.
Is there something in your life you are struggling with? Something you feel is in your way and you are not sure where to start? Choosing to come to therapy can be the first step in a profound journey of discovery and transition. That first step is one of courage, and a willingness to be vulnerable. Every person brings a different story to therapy, and my goal as a therapist is to create a safe space for you to explore your full self and concerns. You can expect that I will respect your own personal journey and that your personal goals will be heard and worked toward.
(226) 407-7083 View (226) 407-7083
Photo of Chris Jarvis, Registered Psychotherapist in Kitchener, ON
Chris Jarvis
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CRPO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2C
Accepting New Clients - Are you tired of feeling stuck and frustrated with the same unhelpful patterns in your relationships, struggles with anger, or addiction? Have you been putting off seeking counselling because life's hectic demands make it challenging to prioritize your well-being? You're not alone in feeling this way. Reach out and we can work through it together. The easiest way to view my availability and book an appointment is through our website (chettiarcounselling.ca) or you can email if you have any questions about the process.
Accepting New Clients - Are you tired of feeling stuck and frustrated with the same unhelpful patterns in your relationships, struggles with anger, or addiction? Have you been putting off seeking counselling because life's hectic demands make it challenging to prioritize your well-being? You're not alone in feeling this way. Reach out and we can work through it together. The easiest way to view my availability and book an appointment is through our website (chettiarcounselling.ca) or you can email if you have any questions about the process.
(226) 910-1023 View (226) 910-1023
Photo of Cheryl Laird, Registered Psychotherapist in Kitchener, ON
Cheryl Laird
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2A
We focus on issues that impair your quality of life, like trauma, addiction, and stress, while also providing you tools for change and healthy coping.
Immediate Availability! Welcome to Laird Counselling Services. We are professional mental health counsellors dedicated to supporting you through life's ups and downs. If you have been dealing with a problem for some time, you might not see how it can change. With over 35 years' combined experience, we have been helping people make sense of what they feel, see new opportunities, and work on their critical inner voice. We are here to support you through difficult life transitions, body image and disordered eating, relationship problems, addictions, and more with compassion and caring.
We focus on issues that impair your quality of life, like trauma, addiction, and stress, while also providing you tools for change and healthy coping.
Immediate Availability! Welcome to Laird Counselling Services. We are professional mental health counsellors dedicated to supporting you through life's ups and downs. If you have been dealing with a problem for some time, you might not see how it can change. With over 35 years' combined experience, we have been helping people make sense of what they feel, see new opportunities, and work on their critical inner voice. We are here to support you through difficult life transitions, body image and disordered eating, relationship problems, addictions, and more with compassion and caring.
(226) 777-6663 View (226) 777-6663
Photo of New Life Counseling and Advocacy Services, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor in Kitchener, ON
New Life Counseling and Advocacy Services
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, CAC, MSW, Ba HONS, MSc, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2A
I am a mental health and addiction clinician, and in addition to that, i do a lot of work in the area of disability and family counseling.
I help clients with single and concurrent mental health and addictions disorders. I have worked in Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia as a clinician and therapist. I have also worked as a disability counselor, dealing with gerontological challenges. I work a lot with families, intervening in their presenting issues. I also counsel on education and career
I am a mental health and addiction clinician, and in addition to that, i do a lot of work in the area of disability and family counseling.
I help clients with single and concurrent mental health and addictions disorders. I have worked in Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia as a clinician and therapist. I have also worked as a disability counselor, dealing with gerontological challenges. I work a lot with families, intervening in their presenting issues. I also counsel on education and career
(226) 782-3390 View (226) 782-3390
Photo of Sarah MacDonald, Registered Psychotherapist in Kitchener, ON
Sarah MacDonald
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2E
What if you could live a life without such intense emotional pain? To the outside world, you seem to be functioning well. Maybe you put on a smile and go through the motions to get through everyday life, but your inner world tells a different story. Each day may feel like a struggle because low mood or memories from the past seem to be a dark cloud that follows you everywhere you go. With specialties in trauma and PTSD, depression, and addiction, I understand that behaviours are often a way of coping with intense pain. My goal is to help you feel like you can cope with life again.
What if you could live a life without such intense emotional pain? To the outside world, you seem to be functioning well. Maybe you put on a smile and go through the motions to get through everyday life, but your inner world tells a different story. Each day may feel like a struggle because low mood or memories from the past seem to be a dark cloud that follows you everywhere you go. With specialties in trauma and PTSD, depression, and addiction, I understand that behaviours are often a way of coping with intense pain. My goal is to help you feel like you can cope with life again.
(548) 489-1151 View (548) 489-1151
Photo of Chris Lobsinger, Registered Social Worker in Kitchener, ON
Chris Lobsinger
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2M
Also specialize in hypnotherapy, a useful skill in relieving anxiety, addiction, pain, and many other concerns.
Practical, collaborative, brief therapy to help you create the life you want.
Also specialize in hypnotherapy, a useful skill in relieving anxiety, addiction, pain, and many other concerns.
Practical, collaborative, brief therapy to help you create the life you want.
(226) 270-6719 View (226) 270-6719

See more therapy options for Kitchener

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.