Addiction Counselling in Sunderland

Photo of Deborah English, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Deborah English
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Perhaps your using substances or alcohol to cope with life’s pressures that are spiralling out of control?
As an integrative Counsellor I am able to draw upon various models of therapy such as CBT, Psychodynamic, Gestalt and Humanistic. So what does this mean for you? This basically allows me to best tailor your therapy to best fulfil your individual need. My background is Mental health, Addictions, Trauma and Bereavement which I have over 15 years experience.
Perhaps your using substances or alcohol to cope with life’s pressures that are spiralling out of control?
As an integrative Counsellor I am able to draw upon various models of therapy such as CBT, Psychodynamic, Gestalt and Humanistic. So what does this mean for you? This basically allows me to best tailor your therapy to best fulfil your individual need. My background is Mental health, Addictions, Trauma and Bereavement which I have over 15 years experience.
0191 743 6562 View 0191 743 6562
Photo of Beverley Ann Colman, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Beverley Ann Colman
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Hello, I’m Bev. Sometimes life can feel overwhelming and when our thoughts are disorganised it can be challenging to see a clear way forward and to make positive and healthy choices. Although it is helpful talking to others, many people feel more comfortable and more able to be fully open, talking to a trained professional. I am an Integrative Person-centered Counsellor and EMDR Practitioner. I have experience in supporting and helping clients overcome mental health issues including; bereavement, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties and trauma.
Hello, I’m Bev. Sometimes life can feel overwhelming and when our thoughts are disorganised it can be challenging to see a clear way forward and to make positive and healthy choices. Although it is helpful talking to others, many people feel more comfortable and more able to be fully open, talking to a trained professional. I am an Integrative Person-centered Counsellor and EMDR Practitioner. I have experience in supporting and helping clients overcome mental health issues including; bereavement, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties and trauma.
07446 869552 View 07446 869552
Photo of Tracy Woodhouse, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Tracy Woodhouse
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
I’m a qualified Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor with over 7 years of experience running my own practice. I’m deeply committed to helping clients navigate lifes challenges, working through anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, burnout, or relationship difficulties. I support children and adults, tailoring therapy to meet each clients emotional, developmental, and psychological needs. My approach is compassionate and grounded in the belief that clients deserve to feel safe, understood, respected, heard and supported. I take an integrative, person-centred approach, combining evidence-based therapies to best suit your needs.
I’m a qualified Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor with over 7 years of experience running my own practice. I’m deeply committed to helping clients navigate lifes challenges, working through anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, burnout, or relationship difficulties. I support children and adults, tailoring therapy to meet each clients emotional, developmental, and psychological needs. My approach is compassionate and grounded in the belief that clients deserve to feel safe, understood, respected, heard and supported. I take an integrative, person-centred approach, combining evidence-based therapies to best suit your needs.
0191 580 4413 View 0191 580 4413
Photo of Michael Colling, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Michael Colling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Whether you are finding it difficult to make a tough choice, or if you are experiencing difficult times that are a little bit overwhelming for you; if its to do with bereavement, mental health/illness, depression, anxiety, phobias, relationships or something in the past that feels unresolved, then it would be a privilege for me as a qualified counsellor/psychotherapist to join you on your road to a better place. I bring with me insights from my experience in mental health nursing also. I am a trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming counsellor with an excellent reputation in this field.
Whether you are finding it difficult to make a tough choice, or if you are experiencing difficult times that are a little bit overwhelming for you; if its to do with bereavement, mental health/illness, depression, anxiety, phobias, relationships or something in the past that feels unresolved, then it would be a privilege for me as a qualified counsellor/psychotherapist to join you on your road to a better place. I bring with me insights from my experience in mental health nursing also. I am a trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming counsellor with an excellent reputation in this field.
0191 743 6578 View 0191 743 6578
Photo of Felicity Cousins, Counsellor, MBACP
Felicity Cousins
Counsellor, MBACP
I can offer you a safe space to be yourself. I’m a Psychotherapeutic counsellor and a registered member of the BACP who has direct experience working with adults suffering with anxiety, depression and more. I am nurturing, warm and compassionate and with an approach free from judgement, I can help you to identify and work through any challenges that you are facing. I work relationally using integrative methods which means counselling is a unique process -depending on what you need. Whether you want to work in the here and now to make changes or delve into the past and explore your story, I offer flexibility in therapy sessions.
I can offer you a safe space to be yourself. I’m a Psychotherapeutic counsellor and a registered member of the BACP who has direct experience working with adults suffering with anxiety, depression and more. I am nurturing, warm and compassionate and with an approach free from judgement, I can help you to identify and work through any challenges that you are facing. I work relationally using integrative methods which means counselling is a unique process -depending on what you need. Whether you want to work in the here and now to make changes or delve into the past and explore your story, I offer flexibility in therapy sessions.
0191 814 7131 View 0191 814 7131
Photo of Dr Alex Hull, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Alex Hull
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
I'm a clinical psychologist with the skill and experience to help you better understand and manage your mental health. I use evidence-based approaches to best suit your needs. Sessions with me will feel informative and helpful. We'll focus on developing coping skills and strategies for you to take forwards so that when our sessions end, you'll feel empowered to reach your potential.
I'm a clinical psychologist with the skill and experience to help you better understand and manage your mental health. I use evidence-based approaches to best suit your needs. Sessions with me will feel informative and helpful. We'll focus on developing coping skills and strategies for you to take forwards so that when our sessions end, you'll feel empowered to reach your potential.
0191 743 0144 View 0191 743 0144
Photo of Julie Campbell - North East Counselling Services, Counsellor, MBACP
North East Counselling Services
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
North East Counselling Services provide counselling to anyone aged 4+ using our team of experienced counsellors. We provide counselling for couples in addition to individuals. We believe that getting you the right counsellor is important to your progress which is why we carry out an assessment then allocate you to the most appropriate counsellor, not just whoever is available. We've got a team of around 50 counsellors and 98% of our clients have said that our counselling helped them.
North East Counselling Services provide counselling to anyone aged 4+ using our team of experienced counsellors. We provide counselling for couples in addition to individuals. We believe that getting you the right counsellor is important to your progress which is why we carry out an assessment then allocate you to the most appropriate counsellor, not just whoever is available. We've got a team of around 50 counsellors and 98% of our clients have said that our counselling helped them.
01757 605682 View 01757 605682
Photo of Jennifer Cottam - Talk Works, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Talk Works
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
Life is hard. Talking helps. Talk Works deliver counselling, CBT, EMDR and psychology to individuals who require mental health support. Therapy offers you a safe, confidential place to talk about your life and anything that may be distressing. Whenever we get people talking, great things happen.
Life is hard. Talking helps. Talk Works deliver counselling, CBT, EMDR and psychology to individuals who require mental health support. Therapy offers you a safe, confidential place to talk about your life and anything that may be distressing. Whenever we get people talking, great things happen.
0191 743 4109 View 0191 743 4109
Photo of Lauren Clarissa Holmes, Counsellor, MBACP
Lauren Clarissa Holmes
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I’m here to offer a supportive, compassionate space where you can feel truly heard, understood, and empowered. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship struggles or anything else that feels overwhelming, I’m committed to supporting your growth and healing. I believe the answers lie within you. My role is to help you trust in your ability to cope and grow, to cultivate the inner resources you need, and to empower you to make meaningful change in your life. I’ll not just be your therapist—I’ll be your biggest advocate, celebrating both your smallest victories and your biggest breakthroughs along the way.
I’m here to offer a supportive, compassionate space where you can feel truly heard, understood, and empowered. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship struggles or anything else that feels overwhelming, I’m committed to supporting your growth and healing. I believe the answers lie within you. My role is to help you trust in your ability to cope and grow, to cultivate the inner resources you need, and to empower you to make meaningful change in your life. I’ll not just be your therapist—I’ll be your biggest advocate, celebrating both your smallest victories and your biggest breakthroughs along the way.
0191 743 3196 View 0191 743 3196
Photo of Dr Stuart Sadler, Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Dr Stuart Sadler
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Serves Area
I specialise in helping people overcome problems such as depression, anxiety (whether due to worry, obsessive-compulsive disorder, health anxiety, or intrusive thoughts), and sleep disorders (such as insomnia, nightmares and early waking) so they can feel better and function better in day to day life again.
I specialise in helping people overcome problems such as depression, anxiety (whether due to worry, obsessive-compulsive disorder, health anxiety, or intrusive thoughts), and sleep disorders (such as insomnia, nightmares and early waking) so they can feel better and function better in day to day life again.
019467 60715 View 019467 60715
Photo of Lindsay Wilkinson, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Lindsay Wilkinson
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
I specialise in working with individuals who have difficulties in managing their emotions and therefore struggle with things like relationships, drinking, substance use, self harming and other impulsive behaviour.
I am a dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) qualified therapist and have experience in working in this area for 15 years. I also work in other cognitive therapies such as CBT and schema focused therapy but have a particular interest in mindfulness based and acceptance based therapies.
I specialise in working with individuals who have difficulties in managing their emotions and therefore struggle with things like relationships, drinking, substance use, self harming and other impulsive behaviour.
I am a dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) qualified therapist and have experience in working in this area for 15 years. I also work in other cognitive therapies such as CBT and schema focused therapy but have a particular interest in mindfulness based and acceptance based therapies.
0191 917 9403 View 0191 917 9403
Photo of Andrew Flynn - Talking Spaces UK , Counsellor, MBACP
Talking Spaces UK
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
We support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, addiction, anger, stress, identity and relationship difficulties.
I work from the understanding that human experience includes distress, conflict, and harm, and that avoiding these realities is neither helpful nor therapeutic. In the therapy room, I offer a non-judgemental, reflective space where clients can explore their experiences honestly and at their own pace. My role is not to impose interpretations or provide simplistic reassurance, but to listen carefully, ask meaningful questions, and support clients in developing insight, emotional awareness, and psychological resilience.I see therapy as a collaborative process grounded in respect, autonomy, and ethical practice.
We support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, addiction, anger, stress, identity and relationship difficulties.
I work from the understanding that human experience includes distress, conflict, and harm, and that avoiding these realities is neither helpful nor therapeutic. In the therapy room, I offer a non-judgemental, reflective space where clients can explore their experiences honestly and at their own pace. My role is not to impose interpretations or provide simplistic reassurance, but to listen carefully, ask meaningful questions, and support clients in developing insight, emotional awareness, and psychological resilience.I see therapy as a collaborative process grounded in respect, autonomy, and ethical practice.
01429 806967 View 01429 806967
Photo of Natalie Holmes, Counsellor, MBACP
Natalie Holmes
Counsellor, MBACP
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Natalie, the therapist at East Durham Counselling. I work with adults and young people in private practice. I’m trained in integrative counselling, which means I have lots of techniques to choose from when deciding what will help my clients the most; I draw from person-centred, psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioural therapies depending on the presenting issues and client's needs. I have experience of working with autism, ADHD, abuse, anxiety, bereavement, depression, domestic violence, eating disorders, OCD, PTSD, relationship issues, self-harm, stress, trauma and dissociation.
Hi, I’m Natalie, the therapist at East Durham Counselling. I work with adults and young people in private practice. I’m trained in integrative counselling, which means I have lots of techniques to choose from when deciding what will help my clients the most; I draw from person-centred, psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioural therapies depending on the presenting issues and client's needs. I have experience of working with autism, ADHD, abuse, anxiety, bereavement, depression, domestic violence, eating disorders, OCD, PTSD, relationship issues, self-harm, stress, trauma and dissociation.
0191 743 9237 View 0191 743 9237
Photo of Annabel Eve Coulthard - Coco Belle Therapies, MSc
Coco Belle Therapies
Verified Verified
Online Only
You might feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck—juggling chronic stress, pain, illness, caregiving demands, or ongoing challenges. You want to regain balance, motivation, and greater control over your wellbeing—not just coping, but truly thriving. I provide a supportive, coaching-led space to explore practical lifestyle changes alongside mindfulness interventions that nurture your mental, emotional, and physical health. My approach is personalised and paced to suit your needs. I also acknowledge how culture, roles, and pressures may shape your experience. Together, we build plans that fit your life and support your wellbeing.
You might feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck—juggling chronic stress, pain, illness, caregiving demands, or ongoing challenges. You want to regain balance, motivation, and greater control over your wellbeing—not just coping, but truly thriving. I provide a supportive, coaching-led space to explore practical lifestyle changes alongside mindfulness interventions that nurture your mental, emotional, and physical health. My approach is personalised and paced to suit your needs. I also acknowledge how culture, roles, and pressures may shape your experience. Together, we build plans that fit your life and support your wellbeing.
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Photo of Karen Ambelez, Counsellor, MBACP
Karen Ambelez
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
Some people find they use alcohol or drugs in an attempt to cope with their feelings but inventively this creates more problems
It can be hard to work out how to improve your situation on your own as, negative thinking patterns and behaviour patterns, can keep us locked in the same cycles of feeling overwhelmed and struggling to be optimistic about life. CBT helps clients identify these negative patterns and provides effective ways to make positive changes and reach your goals
Some people find they use alcohol or drugs in an attempt to cope with their feelings but inventively this creates more problems
It can be hard to work out how to improve your situation on your own as, negative thinking patterns and behaviour patterns, can keep us locked in the same cycles of feeling overwhelmed and struggling to be optimistic about life. CBT helps clients identify these negative patterns and provides effective ways to make positive changes and reach your goals
07480 535288 View 07480 535288
Photo of Luisa Williams - My Family Psychologist, Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
My Family Psychologist
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My work is to empower you to understand and manage your own and your family's psychological wellbeing. From initial confusion and hopelessness the end game is enlightenment and clarity. I rely on data, clear aims, objectives, and objective measurement.
My work is to empower you to understand and manage your own and your family's psychological wellbeing. From initial confusion and hopelessness the end game is enlightenment and clarity. I rely on data, clear aims, objectives, and objective measurement.
01670 338152 View 01670 338152

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lixson J Cyriac, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Lixson J Cyriac
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Durham DH1
I am a counsellor and psychotherapist offering both short- and long-term therapy for adult individuals and couples. As an experienced practitioner, I am here to offer you a safe and confidential space in which we together can explore what is troubling you. Sometimes it is about unpacking the present situation, other times exploring the influence of past experiences and finding new ways to approach life. whatever your issues are, together we can develop our sessions to suit your unique situation.
I am a counsellor and psychotherapist offering both short- and long-term therapy for adult individuals and couples. As an experienced practitioner, I am here to offer you a safe and confidential space in which we together can explore what is troubling you. Sometimes it is about unpacking the present situation, other times exploring the influence of past experiences and finding new ways to approach life. whatever your issues are, together we can develop our sessions to suit your unique situation.
01260 541116 View 01260 541116
Photo of Dr Darren Adamson, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Darren Adamson
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Morpeth NE61
Feeling depressed or anxious? Need to make a change? Taking the first steps to get help can be daunting. This is why I always offer therapy in an emotionally supportive and empathetic manner to help you to achieve the changes that you are looking for. As a psychologist I work with the processes of change; though change is never easy, it’s always worthwhile. I’m fully trained in a diverse range of therapies. This means when we first meet for your assessment consultation, we can consider which approaches may be the best fit for you & therefore the most effective, ensuring you a unique and individualised treatment plan.
Feeling depressed or anxious? Need to make a change? Taking the first steps to get help can be daunting. This is why I always offer therapy in an emotionally supportive and empathetic manner to help you to achieve the changes that you are looking for. As a psychologist I work with the processes of change; though change is never easy, it’s always worthwhile. I’m fully trained in a diverse range of therapies. This means when we first meet for your assessment consultation, we can consider which approaches may be the best fit for you & therefore the most effective, ensuring you a unique and individualised treatment plan.
01670 331760 View 01670 331760
Photo of Kate Fitzgibbon, Counsellor, MA
Kate Fitzgibbon
Counsellor, MA
I have over 30 years experience, working privately, within the NHS, relate couples counselling, drug & alcohol services, refugee & disability agencies & as a coach.
I offer a supportive space for healing and growth, drawing on psychodynamic, transpersonal, and mindfulness-based approaches. My work honours the mind–body–spirit connection. Sessions are available in person, by video, or phone—locally and internationally. Get in touch to learn more.
I have over 30 years experience, working privately, within the NHS, relate couples counselling, drug & alcohol services, refugee & disability agencies & as a coach.
I offer a supportive space for healing and growth, drawing on psychodynamic, transpersonal, and mindfulness-based approaches. My work honours the mind–body–spirit connection. Sessions are available in person, by video, or phone—locally and internationally. Get in touch to learn more.
0191 743 2830 View 0191 743 2830
Photo of Dr Maciej Iwanowicz, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Maciej Iwanowicz
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Online Only
I specialise in mood and affective disorders, such as depression and anxiety, I work with trauma and addiction and I have many years of experience working with ADHD, and neurodiversity.
I am a counselling psychologist who has a broad experience in both psychology and psychotherapy. When working together I will always prioritise your individual needs. Even though I have my own style of therapy I will always make sure to collaborate with you and to be as flexible as needed so we are always on the same page when working together. I hope to create a non-judgemental, safe and hopefully very comfortable environment where you can feel heard and understood.
I specialise in mood and affective disorders, such as depression and anxiety, I work with trauma and addiction and I have many years of experience working with ADHD, and neurodiversity.
I am a counselling psychologist who has a broad experience in both psychology and psychotherapy. When working together I will always prioritise your individual needs. Even though I have my own style of therapy I will always make sure to collaborate with you and to be as flexible as needed so we are always on the same page when working together. I hope to create a non-judgemental, safe and hopefully very comfortable environment where you can feel heard and understood.
0141 280 6657 View 0141 280 6657
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.