Addiction Counselling in Stratford-upon-Avon

Photo of Fiona de Swardt, Psychotherapist, BACP
Fiona de Swardt
Psychotherapist, BACP
Serves Area
I understand that considering to approach someone to discuss private and intimate matters is not easy, but this can be life changing. Experiencing emotional difficulties that affect your moods and behaviour are more common than you think. This can significantly impact a wide range of aspects in your day-to-day life and relationships. Therapy is often an effective way to reach a better understanding of yourself and the causes of your emotional discomfort. It may also help you to find the best way forward to overcome challenges and move on to experience meaningful life improvements simultaneously alleviating pressures and stress.
I understand that considering to approach someone to discuss private and intimate matters is not easy, but this can be life changing. Experiencing emotional difficulties that affect your moods and behaviour are more common than you think. This can significantly impact a wide range of aspects in your day-to-day life and relationships. Therapy is often an effective way to reach a better understanding of yourself and the causes of your emotional discomfort. It may also help you to find the best way forward to overcome challenges and move on to experience meaningful life improvements simultaneously alleviating pressures and stress.
01926 351762 View 01926 351762
Photo of Gerry Ritchie, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Gerry Ritchie
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, bereavement, anger, shame, guilt, stress, addiction, sexual problems or just that life is too much to cope with then I’m here to help.
I have trained in a broad range of counselling and psychotherapy methods including Emotional Therapeutic Counselling (ETC), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Neuro-linguistic Programming (NLP), Hypnotherapy and Sex Therapy. I believe in matching the therapeutic approach to the client as the client is the centre of the therapy.
If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, bereavement, anger, shame, guilt, stress, addiction, sexual problems or just that life is too much to cope with then I’m here to help.
I have trained in a broad range of counselling and psychotherapy methods including Emotional Therapeutic Counselling (ETC), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Neuro-linguistic Programming (NLP), Hypnotherapy and Sex Therapy. I believe in matching the therapeutic approach to the client as the client is the centre of the therapy.
01242 395274 View 01242 395274
Photo of Lis Starkey-Smets, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Lis Starkey-Smets
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or stressed? Have you noticed yourself chronically people-pleasing? Or perhaps you're struggling with low self esteem? I have extensive experience of supporing people experiencing a wide range of difficulties. Whether you're experiencing low mood, are having trouble with relationships, or are feeling like you're not living authentically, I am here to help.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or stressed? Have you noticed yourself chronically people-pleasing? Or perhaps you're struggling with low self esteem? I have extensive experience of supporing people experiencing a wide range of difficulties. Whether you're experiencing low mood, are having trouble with relationships, or are feeling like you're not living authentically, I am here to help.
01908 103280 View 01908 103280
Photo of Ian Richards, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Ian Richards
Psychotherapist, MBACP
I am a fully qualified Psychotherapist and hold the ATSAC professional Certificate for Treating Sexual Addiction.
If you are feeling nervous about entering therapy I can assure you that this is quite normal and there is nothing to worry about and after the initial session this will pass. I am also a qualified Supervisor for Counsellors and Psychotherapists who work within this area of expertise, and I currently have availability for Supervisee's.
I am a fully qualified Psychotherapist and hold the ATSAC professional Certificate for Treating Sexual Addiction.
If you are feeling nervous about entering therapy I can assure you that this is quite normal and there is nothing to worry about and after the initial session this will pass. I am also a qualified Supervisor for Counsellors and Psychotherapists who work within this area of expertise, and I currently have availability for Supervisee's.
01789 331276 View 01789 331276
Photo of Vicki Jones, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Vicki Jones
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
Vicki has experience with treating a wide range of psychological conditions and her qualifications mean she is suitably qualified to address many different types of issues. Her techniques have been proven to be effective, allowing the client to overcome their psychological concerns, relieve stress and anxiety, while allowing for a life of greater fulfillment. A full assessment is initially carried out and a diagnosis will be offered along with an appropriate treatment intervention plan.
Vicki has experience with treating a wide range of psychological conditions and her qualifications mean she is suitably qualified to address many different types of issues. Her techniques have been proven to be effective, allowing the client to overcome their psychological concerns, relieve stress and anxiety, while allowing for a life of greater fulfillment. A full assessment is initially carried out and a diagnosis will be offered along with an appropriate treatment intervention plan.
01789 339419 View 01789 339419
Photo of Thelma Jane Cooke - Your Stepping Stones, Counsellor, MBACP
I specialise in helping adults who have issues with self-harm & suicidal thoughts as well as those who have suffered trauma and abuse at any stage in their lives. I also welcome all those who identify as neurodivergent as I have considerable experience with those on the autistic spectrum and ADHD. Having worked for a number of national mental health charities, I have seen the power of counselling from all sides. It can feel daunting to make contact with a therapist at first – this is a very common way to feel however finding the strength to do so is the first step towards changing your life. I am also a qualified couples counsellor
I specialise in helping adults who have issues with self-harm & suicidal thoughts as well as those who have suffered trauma and abuse at any stage in their lives. I also welcome all those who identify as neurodivergent as I have considerable experience with those on the autistic spectrum and ADHD. Having worked for a number of national mental health charities, I have seen the power of counselling from all sides. It can feel daunting to make contact with a therapist at first – this is a very common way to feel however finding the strength to do so is the first step towards changing your life. I am also a qualified couples counsellor
01296 935783 View 01296 935783
Photo of Laura Soper, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Laura Soper
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
My areas of specialism include trauma and addiction, as well as working with adolescents, always with care, compassion, and understanding.
If you’re feeling lost, confused, or simply not quite yourself, you’re not alone - and therapy can be a supportive step toward finding your way again. With extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, I offer a compassionate, tailored approach, shaping each session around your unique needs, goals, and pace.
My areas of specialism include trauma and addiction, as well as working with adolescents, always with care, compassion, and understanding.
If you’re feeling lost, confused, or simply not quite yourself, you’re not alone - and therapy can be a supportive step toward finding your way again. With extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults, I offer a compassionate, tailored approach, shaping each session around your unique needs, goals, and pace.
01908 024369 View 01908 024369
Photo of Clare Welch, Counsellor, MBACP
Clare Welch
Counsellor, MBACP
If you are suffering from Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Abuse/Trauma, Bereavement, Addiction or Relationship issues, I can help to navigate your way through and aid your journey back to health.
I offer a holistic and integrative approach using a variety of techniques that can be tailored to suit you. Depending on your needs and goals, I use a combination of CBT, Mindfulness, Breathe Work, Emotional Therapy, Flash Technique and EMDR. These can be used in isolation or a mix of therapies which prove highly effective during your counselling journey.
If you are suffering from Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Abuse/Trauma, Bereavement, Addiction or Relationship issues, I can help to navigate your way through and aid your journey back to health.
I offer a holistic and integrative approach using a variety of techniques that can be tailored to suit you. Depending on your needs and goals, I use a combination of CBT, Mindfulness, Breathe Work, Emotional Therapy, Flash Technique and EMDR. These can be used in isolation or a mix of therapies which prove highly effective during your counselling journey.
01789 331271 View 01789 331271
Photo of Lauren Cameron, Psychotherapist, MSc
Lauren Cameron
Psychotherapist, MSc
Online Only
I work with people who are ready for meaningful, lasting change and want to understand the deeper patterns holding them back. Many clients come to me following trauma, abuse, difficult relationships, anxiety, burnout, emotional overwhelm, or years of feeling stuck in the same cycles. I also work closely with men seeking a grounded, non-judgemental space to open up and better understand themselves. Together, we explore subconscious beliefs, attachment patterns, and unresolved experiences to help you heal, rebuild confidence, develop healthier relationships, and move forward with greater clarity, resilience, and self-trust.
I work with people who are ready for meaningful, lasting change and want to understand the deeper patterns holding them back. Many clients come to me following trauma, abuse, difficult relationships, anxiety, burnout, emotional overwhelm, or years of feeling stuck in the same cycles. I also work closely with men seeking a grounded, non-judgemental space to open up and better understand themselves. Together, we explore subconscious beliefs, attachment patterns, and unresolved experiences to help you heal, rebuild confidence, develop healthier relationships, and move forward with greater clarity, resilience, and self-trust.
01296 798847 View 01296 798847
Photo of Ian Richards, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Ian Richards
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
I am a fully qualified Psychotherapist and hold the ATSAC professional Certificate for Treating Sexual Addiction.
If you are feeling nervous about entering therapy I can assure you that this is quite normal and there is nothing to worry about and after the initial session this will pass. I am also a qualified Supervisor for Counsellors and Psychotherapists who work within this area of expertise, and I currently have availability for Supervisee's.
I am a fully qualified Psychotherapist and hold the ATSAC professional Certificate for Treating Sexual Addiction.
If you are feeling nervous about entering therapy I can assure you that this is quite normal and there is nothing to worry about and after the initial session this will pass. I am also a qualified Supervisor for Counsellors and Psychotherapists who work within this area of expertise, and I currently have availability for Supervisee's.
01789 339386 View 01789 339386
Photo of Meghan Macer, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Meghan Macer
Psychotherapist, MBACP
I have experience working with neurodivergent clients and those navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, domestic violence, sexual abuse, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, relationship difficulties, and issues related to substance use.
As an integrative person-centred therapist, my approach values the uniqueness of each person and honours their capacity for growth and self-awareness. By integrating elements from various therapeutic models while staying rooted in the person-centred philosophy, I tailor the work to meet the specific needs of each client. I am a trans-affirmative therapist.
I have experience working with neurodivergent clients and those navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, domestic violence, sexual abuse, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, relationship difficulties, and issues related to substance use.
As an integrative person-centred therapist, my approach values the uniqueness of each person and honours their capacity for growth and self-awareness. By integrating elements from various therapeutic models while staying rooted in the person-centred philosophy, I tailor the work to meet the specific needs of each client. I am a trans-affirmative therapist.
01926 357037 View 01926 357037
Photo of Rosa Chillari, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, CPsychol
Rosa Chillari
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, CPsychol
Dr Rosa Chillari offers you the most appropriate approach to match your needs. These approaches range from the current science of psychology and psychotherapy to a variety of time tested ancient healing wisdoms.
Dr Rosa Chillari offers you the most appropriate approach to match your needs. These approaches range from the current science of psychology and psychotherapy to a variety of time tested ancient healing wisdoms.
01789 331083 View 01789 331083
Photo of Charly El Kashory, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Charly El Kashory
Psychotherapist, MBACP
5 Endorsed
You might seem like you’re holding it all together, but inside it feels like something is missing. Maybe you’re exhausted from trying to be everything to everyone, or feel disconnected from who you really are. You may be carrying trauma or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you. I offer a space where you can soften, feel met, and begin to listen to what’s really going on inside. This is a space for the parts of you that long to be heard.
You might seem like you’re holding it all together, but inside it feels like something is missing. Maybe you’re exhausted from trying to be everything to everyone, or feel disconnected from who you really are. You may be carrying trauma or stuck in patterns that no longer serve you. I offer a space where you can soften, feel met, and begin to listen to what’s really going on inside. This is a space for the parts of you that long to be heard.
01908 103020 View 01908 103020
Photo of Polly Jennens, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Polly Jennens
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP Accred
Are you feeling "how do I deal with this" or "how can I change things" and you just don't know where to start.........then I can help. Counselling can make a huge difference to how you live your life. People come to therapy for all sorts of reasons and you're certainly not alone if you are finding making the first move quite daunting. I provide a quiet, safe space where you can freely discuss your fears, worries, hopes and dreams without judgement. This will allow you to gain a greater understanding of where you are now, where you want to be and how to get there.
Are you feeling "how do I deal with this" or "how can I change things" and you just don't know where to start.........then I can help. Counselling can make a huge difference to how you live your life. People come to therapy for all sorts of reasons and you're certainly not alone if you are finding making the first move quite daunting. I provide a quiet, safe space where you can freely discuss your fears, worries, hopes and dreams without judgement. This will allow you to gain a greater understanding of where you are now, where you want to be and how to get there.
01789 331102 View 01789 331102
Photo of Raggi Gandham - Essential Minds, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Essential Minds
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Having worked in the corporate sphere for nearly 30 years, I understand that people encounter mental health challenges of all kinds, from depression to addiction to burnout.
My Background I worked in the corporate sector for 25 years, running my own recruitment business and deriving great satisfaction from the challenge of this industry. However, over time, I noticed how people can end up feeling trapped, overburdened by mental health issues that they didn’t feel they could communicate to others. I also struggled in my own way, which is what led me to learn as much as possible about personal development – a journey that began in 1993. Since then, I have always wanted to dedicate myself to educating those experiencing the same issues and supporting them manage their well-being more effectively.
Having worked in the corporate sphere for nearly 30 years, I understand that people encounter mental health challenges of all kinds, from depression to addiction to burnout.
My Background I worked in the corporate sector for 25 years, running my own recruitment business and deriving great satisfaction from the challenge of this industry. However, over time, I noticed how people can end up feeling trapped, overburdened by mental health issues that they didn’t feel they could communicate to others. I also struggled in my own way, which is what led me to learn as much as possible about personal development – a journey that began in 1993. Since then, I have always wanted to dedicate myself to educating those experiencing the same issues and supporting them manage their well-being more effectively.
01789 337286 View 01789 337286
Photo of Nicky Adams - Bright Futures Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Specialising in working with young people aged 11-18 years. Counselling Service for Young People, Adults and Couples in Nottingham and Stratford Upon Avon. Nicky Adams MBACP, BA(Hons), MNCPS Acc). Counsellor / Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor. I am a fully qualified, registered and insured Counsellor. DBS checked. If life is a struggle right now, get in touch and we can work together to make life happier.. I am an integrative therapist, working in a solution / client centred way using a range of approaches including CBT and Mindfulness to help relieve your emotional distress.
Specialising in working with young people aged 11-18 years. Counselling Service for Young People, Adults and Couples in Nottingham and Stratford Upon Avon. Nicky Adams MBACP, BA(Hons), MNCPS Acc). Counsellor / Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor. I am a fully qualified, registered and insured Counsellor. DBS checked. If life is a struggle right now, get in touch and we can work together to make life happier.. I am an integrative therapist, working in a solution / client centred way using a range of approaches including CBT and Mindfulness to help relieve your emotional distress.
01789 331117 View 01789 331117
Photo of Simon A Hudson, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Simon A Hudson
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
I have speciality in Life Crisis, addictions, relationship and sexual issues .
To meet In therapy is to face your fears and vulnerability in a safe and non judgemental space. I love to create an alliance with you as a client to discover and challenge what lies Inside you, aim to have a deep understanding of your world, your hopes and your needs. Often people need to find their own truth and for this we may need to find questions that need answering , uncover pathways that feel blocked and make choices that can unlock you towards freedom and a more loving space for your self and your life.
I have speciality in Life Crisis, addictions, relationship and sexual issues .
To meet In therapy is to face your fears and vulnerability in a safe and non judgemental space. I love to create an alliance with you as a client to discover and challenge what lies Inside you, aim to have a deep understanding of your world, your hopes and your needs. Often people need to find their own truth and for this we may need to find questions that need answering , uncover pathways that feel blocked and make choices that can unlock you towards freedom and a more loving space for your self and your life.
020 3893 3503 View 020 3893 3503
Photo of Helen Louise Brown, Counsellor, MBACP
Helen Louise Brown
Counsellor, MBACP
I have previously worked in mental health hospitals practising on both addiction and general psychiatry units and in schools.
I offer an integrative approach tailored to suit you. I am experienced in supporting those affected by: Trauma & PTSD, Neurodiversity, Addiction, Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Depression, Self-Harming and Relationship Issues. I have extensive experience working with survivors of rape and/or sexual abuse. I offer face-face, online and telephone sessions.
I have previously worked in mental health hospitals practising on both addiction and general psychiatry units and in schools.
I offer an integrative approach tailored to suit you. I am experienced in supporting those affected by: Trauma & PTSD, Neurodiversity, Addiction, Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Depression, Self-Harming and Relationship Issues. I have extensive experience working with survivors of rape and/or sexual abuse. I offer face-face, online and telephone sessions.
01223 658789 View 01223 658789
Photo of Diane Susan Alexander, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Diane Susan Alexander
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Diane Alexander, a (BACP) Accredited therapist since 2004 and a Warwick University graduate, bringing decades of experience supporting individuals, couples and children. I am also an EMDR therapist specialising in trauma and an executive coach. My work is grounded in clarity, integrity and respect for each client journey, and I work with insurance companies. Recognised for her intellectual depth and reflective approach, Diane excels at helping individuals and organisations gain clarity, set direction, and move forward with purpose. She naturally integrates wellbeing, performance, and human connection, believing that
Diane Alexander, a (BACP) Accredited therapist since 2004 and a Warwick University graduate, bringing decades of experience supporting individuals, couples and children. I am also an EMDR therapist specialising in trauma and an executive coach. My work is grounded in clarity, integrity and respect for each client journey, and I work with insurance companies. Recognised for her intellectual depth and reflective approach, Diane excels at helping individuals and organisations gain clarity, set direction, and move forward with purpose. She naturally integrates wellbeing, performance, and human connection, believing that
01789 331090 View 01789 331090
Photo of Becca West, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Becca West
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
I am a Clinical Psychologist based in Gloucestershire with ten years of experience working within Mental Health Teams in the NHS. My expertise is in assessing and treating adults experiencing a wide range of psychological, emotional, relational and physical health difficulties. ​ I currently work both privately and within the NHS, in the latter specialising with adults with complex and long standing mental health difficulties.
I am a Clinical Psychologist based in Gloucestershire with ten years of experience working within Mental Health Teams in the NHS. My expertise is in assessing and treating adults experiencing a wide range of psychological, emotional, relational and physical health difficulties. ​ I currently work both privately and within the NHS, in the latter specialising with adults with complex and long standing mental health difficulties.
01608 695686 View 01608 695686

See more therapy options for Stratford-upon-Avon

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.