Addiction Counselling in Christchurch

Saffron Marriner
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, struggling with self esteem, relationship difficulties, addiction, symptoms of past trauma or other issues?
With over 20 years experience of working with people, and in addition to my private practice, I have also worked extensively in a variety of settings, as well as undertaken training to support clients with alcohol and/or substance misuse issues and the related difficulties that may arise from their addiction, as well as working with trauma from the past.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, struggling with self esteem, relationship difficulties, addiction, symptoms of past trauma or other issues?
With over 20 years experience of working with people, and in addition to my private practice, I have also worked extensively in a variety of settings, as well as undertaken training to support clients with alcohol and/or substance misuse issues and the related difficulties that may arise from their addiction, as well as working with trauma from the past.
01202 835097 View 01202 835097
Anna Elston
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
I work with international and UK-based treatment facilities as an associate therapist, specialising in areas such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem and addictions.
I can help you get to the heart of the hurt, find your resilience and reconnect with the joy in your life. I understand first-hand how much courage it takes to ask for help, and have been in recovery myself since 2007.
I work with international and UK-based treatment facilities as an associate therapist, specialising in areas such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem and addictions.
I can help you get to the heart of the hurt, find your resilience and reconnect with the joy in your life. I understand first-hand how much courage it takes to ask for help, and have been in recovery myself since 2007.
01865 587121 View 01865 587121
Carmel Davis-McCluskie
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Serves Area
I've been a practicing as a Counsellor & Psychotherapist for over 20 yrs now. Over the years I've worked with a diverse range of clients, coming with a multitude of different reasons. I offer a safe, confidential space, acknowledging the importance of building a good rapport in order for therapy to work.
I've been a practicing as a Counsellor & Psychotherapist for over 20 yrs now. Over the years I've worked with a diverse range of clients, coming with a multitude of different reasons. I offer a safe, confidential space, acknowledging the importance of building a good rapport in order for therapy to work.
01202 037558 View 01202 037558
Monika Burzykowska
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am an HCPC Registered Arts Psychotherapist & Dramatherapist (MA) supporting children, adults, and families through complex trauma, attachment issues, adoption, self-harm, addiction, and burnout.
My creative, somatic, and culturally sensitive practice uses dramatherapy (EPR), music, movement, and nature to process trauma beyond words. I help clients build somatic awareness, release physical tension, and regulate nervous systems. As a migrant, I offer lived empathy for relocation loss. I provide safe, attuned therapy in person and online.
I am an HCPC Registered Arts Psychotherapist & Dramatherapist (MA) supporting children, adults, and families through complex trauma, attachment issues, adoption, self-harm, addiction, and burnout.
My creative, somatic, and culturally sensitive practice uses dramatherapy (EPR), music, movement, and nature to process trauma beyond words. I help clients build somatic awareness, release physical tension, and regulate nervous systems. As a migrant, I offer lived empathy for relocation loss. I provide safe, attuned therapy in person and online.
01202 059155 View 01202 059155
Zoë Pool
Psychotherapist, PhD, PNCPS Acc.
Online Only
Finding the therapist that is right for you may feel a challenge, especially at a time when you may be feeling vulnerable or uncertain, perhaps facing a crisis point. This is not unusual, whether you have undertaken therapy in the past or whether this is the first time you have sought therapy. Sometimes we need help to overcome conflicts and blocks in ourselves and in our relationships that are confusing and difficult to face. I understand that you are a unique and complex individual, with many facets and aspects of who you are, how you experience yourself, and how you have had to adapt as you confront life's struggles.
Finding the therapist that is right for you may feel a challenge, especially at a time when you may be feeling vulnerable or uncertain, perhaps facing a crisis point. This is not unusual, whether you have undertaken therapy in the past or whether this is the first time you have sought therapy. Sometimes we need help to overcome conflicts and blocks in ourselves and in our relationships that are confusing and difficult to face. I understand that you are a unique and complex individual, with many facets and aspects of who you are, how you experience yourself, and how you have had to adapt as you confront life's struggles.
01354 705990 View 01354 705990
I have also worked with those with Drug and Alcohol addictions.
I offer a warm, safe and confidential space for you to be listened to. I work at your pace, helping you to explore what you really want, both from the counselling therapy and then concentrating more specifically, on areas of your life that you'd like to change or improve. If you have problems that keep going around and around in your head. If you are unhappy and can't identify why. If you are really struggling to cope with life, then Counselling can offer an amazingly good emotional release. Offering you the comfort of feeling truly listened to, empathised with and not judged.
I have also worked with those with Drug and Alcohol addictions.
I offer a warm, safe and confidential space for you to be listened to. I work at your pace, helping you to explore what you really want, both from the counselling therapy and then concentrating more specifically, on areas of your life that you'd like to change or improve. If you have problems that keep going around and around in your head. If you are unhappy and can't identify why. If you are really struggling to cope with life, then Counselling can offer an amazingly good emotional release. Offering you the comfort of feeling truly listened to, empathised with and not judged.
01354 705994 View 01354 705994
Janet King
Counsellor, MBACP
As a psychotherapist, supervisor and trainer with over 30 years of experience I have been privileged to work with courageous people from all walks of life, cultures and backgrounds. From adults, to children, young people and couples, LGBGTQ+, kink and polyamorous communities . With the help of therapy they have been able to explore what has been troubling them and discover a way forward. I offer an environment that is supportive, warm, confidential and free from judgment. Together we can create a space in which you will be able to explore areas of your life you wish to understand, improve on or make changes to.
As a psychotherapist, supervisor and trainer with over 30 years of experience I have been privileged to work with courageous people from all walks of life, cultures and backgrounds. From adults, to children, young people and couples, LGBGTQ+, kink and polyamorous communities . With the help of therapy they have been able to explore what has been troubling them and discover a way forward. I offer an environment that is supportive, warm, confidential and free from judgment. Together we can create a space in which you will be able to explore areas of your life you wish to understand, improve on or make changes to.
01425 209099 View 01425 209099
Peter Lasek
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
As an integrative counsellor with 9 years of experience, I have been dedicated to helping clients improving their mental health, building self awareness, improving emotional regulation, enhancing relationships, resolving problems, promoting personal growth and navigate life challenges. My approach involves three stages 1 - Understanding the roots of the problem, identifying the underlaying causes through comprehensive exploration of a client's thoughts, emotions, behaviours and experiences. 2 - Developing coping strategies 3 - Encouraging clients to practice between the sessions which can help promotes long-term change
As an integrative counsellor with 9 years of experience, I have been dedicated to helping clients improving their mental health, building self awareness, improving emotional regulation, enhancing relationships, resolving problems, promoting personal growth and navigate life challenges. My approach involves three stages 1 - Understanding the roots of the problem, identifying the underlaying causes through comprehensive exploration of a client's thoughts, emotions, behaviours and experiences. 2 - Developing coping strategies 3 - Encouraging clients to practice between the sessions which can help promotes long-term change
01865 951490 View 01865 951490
Mark Draper
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Life can be so full of pressure and stress, is it any wonder we sometimes need help navigating these challenges? Many of the people I work with feel trapped by their past, overwhelmed in the present, or scared of the future. I can help you make sense of what has happened in your life, overcome the things that are holding you back, and help you to change things for the better. As a Clinical Psychologist, I am experienced at helping people overcome anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, relationship issues, and a range of other problems.
Life can be so full of pressure and stress, is it any wonder we sometimes need help navigating these challenges? Many of the people I work with feel trapped by their past, overwhelmed in the present, or scared of the future. I can help you make sense of what has happened in your life, overcome the things that are holding you back, and help you to change things for the better. As a Clinical Psychologist, I am experienced at helping people overcome anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, relationship issues, and a range of other problems.
01865 638581 View 01865 638581
New Horizons Network
Counsellor, MBACP
New Horizons Network is a team of counsellors, life coaches and psychotherapists. Being able to explore areas of your life which you may wish to understand, improve on or make changes to can make life better, improve relationships and self esteem. We all deserve the best from life. We believe that coaching, counselling and psychotherapy should be accessible to all. With that in mind we offer these services at varying costs according to the level of experience of our network of practitioners. Contact us for a discussion on how we can help you with your needs and put you in touch with the best person for you.
New Horizons Network is a team of counsellors, life coaches and psychotherapists. Being able to explore areas of your life which you may wish to understand, improve on or make changes to can make life better, improve relationships and self esteem. We all deserve the best from life. We believe that coaching, counselling and psychotherapy should be accessible to all. With that in mind we offer these services at varying costs according to the level of experience of our network of practitioners. Contact us for a discussion on how we can help you with your needs and put you in touch with the best person for you.
01425 206739 View 01425 206739
Jess Townsend
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Alongside psychosexual therapy, I have extensive experience supporting people affected by gambling addiction.
I specialise in psychosexual therapy, supporting individuals and couples experiencing compulsive sexual behaviours, problematic pornography use, and relationship challenges. I also work with intimacy concerns, sexual difficulties, desire discrepancies, and the impact these issues can have on wellbeing and connection.
Alongside psychosexual therapy, I have extensive experience supporting people affected by gambling addiction.
I specialise in psychosexual therapy, supporting individuals and couples experiencing compulsive sexual behaviours, problematic pornography use, and relationship challenges. I also work with intimacy concerns, sexual difficulties, desire discrepancies, and the impact these issues can have on wellbeing and connection.
01202 144001 View 01202 144001
Vince Gibbons
Psychotherapist, MBACP
I offer a free 30 minute phone or video consultation, which may just help you without any more sessions. Many of us have experienced times when our lives can feel complex, isolated, stuck, or even completely overwhelmed. We may find ourselves looking for additional non-judgemental, experienced & professional support outside our friends & family in a caring, comfortable, & calm environment. It can be very helpful to have difficulties explored in confidence, to be listened to compassionately & being properly heard and understood in order to make sense of things, so that our choices can become clearer and our lives more fulfilling.
I offer a free 30 minute phone or video consultation, which may just help you without any more sessions. Many of us have experienced times when our lives can feel complex, isolated, stuck, or even completely overwhelmed. We may find ourselves looking for additional non-judgemental, experienced & professional support outside our friends & family in a caring, comfortable, & calm environment. It can be very helpful to have difficulties explored in confidence, to be listened to compassionately & being properly heard and understood in order to make sense of things, so that our choices can become clearer and our lives more fulfilling.
01483 968676 View 01483 968676
Cindy Burcham
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
I work with a broad range of clients; exploring low self-esteem, addiction, trauma experiences, depression, grief, anxiety, shame, rage or any of the unique, puzzling or unsettling experiences that have brought you here seeking support and understanding.
Much has been written about the healing and transformative experience that comes about when we dare to share our inner world. Part of my work is to offer a warmly respectful, non-judgmental relationship out of which we can work together, at your pace to gain understanding and change.
I work with a broad range of clients; exploring low self-esteem, addiction, trauma experiences, depression, grief, anxiety, shame, rage or any of the unique, puzzling or unsettling experiences that have brought you here seeking support and understanding.
Much has been written about the healing and transformative experience that comes about when we dare to share our inner world. Part of my work is to offer a warmly respectful, non-judgmental relationship out of which we can work together, at your pace to gain understanding and change.
01425 209936 View 01425 209936
Samantha Spencer
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
2 Endorsed
I have worked in a variety of settings in the field of mental health services including in specialist addictions units & rehabilitation, Community drug services NHS Primary Care with IAPT and the Priory Hospital Bristol with inpatients and outpatient services as well as remote delivery of CBT Therapy.
I believe in supporting you to working in a collaborative way. The evidence base of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy can support difficulties like OCD, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Low Self esteem, Addictions , Phobias and Trauma. Together we can explore and understand it using creative methods and building a tool kit for you to draw on in your life.
I have worked in a variety of settings in the field of mental health services including in specialist addictions units & rehabilitation, Community drug services NHS Primary Care with IAPT and the Priory Hospital Bristol with inpatients and outpatient services as well as remote delivery of CBT Therapy.
I believe in supporting you to working in a collaborative way. The evidence base of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy can support difficulties like OCD, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Low Self esteem, Addictions , Phobias and Trauma. Together we can explore and understand it using creative methods and building a tool kit for you to draw on in your life.
01453 701876 View 01453 701876
Richard Dolan - Check Your Head
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
You might look like you’re coping, but something isn’t sitting right. Stress, pressure, relationship problems, anger, anxiety, low mood, or a sense you’re stuck and don’t know why. Many of the people I work with aren’t in crisis - they’re functioning, but tired of carrying things alone. You may not want endless talk about feelings, but you do want clarity, direction, and a way to understand what’s going on beneath the surface and change it.
You might look like you’re coping, but something isn’t sitting right. Stress, pressure, relationship problems, anger, anxiety, low mood, or a sense you’re stuck and don’t know why. Many of the people I work with aren’t in crisis - they’re functioning, but tired of carrying things alone. You may not want endless talk about feelings, but you do want clarity, direction, and a way to understand what’s going on beneath the surface and change it.
01354 700745 View 01354 700745
Gen Z Therapy - James Arnoldi MBACP
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
I specialise in working with a generation of young people who often struggle with anxiety, poor self-esteem, loneliness and tech addiction, who need a supportive and non-judgemental space to navigate life's challenges.
If you're Gen Z then you already know how challenging it can be to deal with family, social and study issues at the best of times, let alone when things start going wrong. As a therapist who is separate to the main people in your life, I aim to provide you with a weekly online space where you can explore freely what's on your mind, in a confidential setting.
I specialise in working with a generation of young people who often struggle with anxiety, poor self-esteem, loneliness and tech addiction, who need a supportive and non-judgemental space to navigate life's challenges.
If you're Gen Z then you already know how challenging it can be to deal with family, social and study issues at the best of times, let alone when things start going wrong. As a therapist who is separate to the main people in your life, I aim to provide you with a weekly online space where you can explore freely what's on your mind, in a confidential setting.
01761 250931 View 01761 250931
Alex Maunder Taylor
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with men and women, specialising in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, addiction, relationship issues, low self esteem & confidence, and therapy for men — working with adults who want real change, not just to feel heard.
I specialise in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, addiction and compulsive behaviours, low self-esteem and confidence, finding meaning and purpose, and therapy for men. We'll look into the root causes for these issues, not just temporary symptom reduction or coping strategies.
I work with men and women, specialising in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, addiction, relationship issues, low self esteem & confidence, and therapy for men — working with adults who want real change, not just to feel heard.
I specialise in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, addiction and compulsive behaviours, low self-esteem and confidence, finding meaning and purpose, and therapy for men. We'll look into the root causes for these issues, not just temporary symptom reduction or coping strategies.
01202 078683 View 01202 078683
Headway Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Charlotte an experienced, qualified CBT Practitioner and counsellor. Are you saying you're ok - when you're not? I believe that talking therapies can help when life is hard and you're experiencing a difficult time. Maybe you're feeling down, anxious or going through a life transition such as a break up or bereavement. We can work together to focus on what's important to you, helping to improve your wellbeing, achieve your goals, gain a more balanced outlook and rewarding life.
Hi, I'm Charlotte an experienced, qualified CBT Practitioner and counsellor. Are you saying you're ok - when you're not? I believe that talking therapies can help when life is hard and you're experiencing a difficult time. Maybe you're feeling down, anxious or going through a life transition such as a break up or bereavement. We can work together to focus on what's important to you, helping to improve your wellbeing, achieve your goals, gain a more balanced outlook and rewarding life.
01209 707189 View 01209 707189
Abby Orchard
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you feel you could develop your potential further? Do you feel anxious or depressed or suffer from PTSD? Is your relationship suffering? Are you finding difficult to manage stressors? Is this getting in the way of you achieving your goals and the quality of life and relationship you desire? I can help!
Do you feel you could develop your potential further? Do you feel anxious or depressed or suffer from PTSD? Is your relationship suffering? Are you finding difficult to manage stressors? Is this getting in the way of you achieving your goals and the quality of life and relationship you desire? I can help!
01202 125945 View 01202 125945
Dr Claudia Copestake
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
Hello and welcome to Victory Psychology. I am a consultant clinical psychologist working with Veterans, and adults (16+) experiencing mental health difficulties, covering Dorset, surrounding areas, but mostly I am online. Aswell as having specialist skills in treating combat and civilian PTSD, and complex trauma, I also I treat anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, and peri natal mental health. I also specialise in therapy for those who have sustained brain injury, stroke, life changing injuries and neurological disorders. In addition, I conduct cognitive capacity assessments for legal teams and the court.
Hello and welcome to Victory Psychology. I am a consultant clinical psychologist working with Veterans, and adults (16+) experiencing mental health difficulties, covering Dorset, surrounding areas, but mostly I am online. Aswell as having specialist skills in treating combat and civilian PTSD, and complex trauma, I also I treat anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, and peri natal mental health. I also specialise in therapy for those who have sustained brain injury, stroke, life changing injuries and neurological disorders. In addition, I conduct cognitive capacity assessments for legal teams and the court.
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See more therapy options for Christchurch

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.