Addiction Counselling in Aberdeen

Photo of Mark Ernest Hepburn, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Mark Ernest Hepburn
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Aberdeen AB11
Dealing with issues such as Addiction, Stress, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety and Bereavement.
People tell me that I'm warm, funny and really good with people and I feel I bring this to my client work. I believe that clients need to feel safe and develop a sense of trust before the process of sharing can evolve in to the dynamic process I believe provides the best opportunity for change and developing insight. I think what underpins this is the belief that a tight rope walker wont let go unless they feel they have a safety net to catch them, perhaps clients are the same in that regard. My philosophy of counselling has evolved but what has never changed is my belief in the uniqueness and individuality of clients and progress
Dealing with issues such as Addiction, Stress, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety and Bereavement.
People tell me that I'm warm, funny and really good with people and I feel I bring this to my client work. I believe that clients need to feel safe and develop a sense of trust before the process of sharing can evolve in to the dynamic process I believe provides the best opportunity for change and developing insight. I think what underpins this is the belief that a tight rope walker wont let go unless they feel they have a safety net to catch them, perhaps clients are the same in that regard. My philosophy of counselling has evolved but what has never changed is my belief in the uniqueness and individuality of clients and progress
01224 057050 View 01224 057050
Photo of Peter Lindsayhall, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Peter Lindsayhall
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Aberdeen AB10
I’m an Accredited Psychotherapist specialising in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Addiction, Depression and Traumatic stress. I am work with a variety of approaches to treat these difficulties. I believe that everyone deserves to be heard and supported, and I am dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where all voices are valued. Together, we can navigate your challenges, develop effective strategies, and empower you toward lasting change. I look forward to walking alongside you on this journey.
I’m an Accredited Psychotherapist specialising in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Addiction, Depression and Traumatic stress. I am work with a variety of approaches to treat these difficulties. I believe that everyone deserves to be heard and supported, and I am dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where all voices are valued. Together, we can navigate your challenges, develop effective strategies, and empower you toward lasting change. I look forward to walking alongside you on this journey.
0141 673 8164 View 0141 673 8164
Photo of Agata Robertson, MCOSCA, Counsellor
Agata Robertson
Counsellor, MCOSCA
Verified Verified
Aberdeen AB10
I work with a range of complex issues such as anxiety, addiction, depression, grief, emotional distress and anger.
We all deserve both psychological and emotional well-being!   Yet, sometimes ‘life’ grinds us down, we often lose our emotional resources and the psychological tools required to live a healthy and empowering lifestyle. As a counsellor and psychotherapist, my focus is to support individuals through distress and times of crisis.  Whatever your individual situation may be, my aim is to provide you with support in identifying any changes that can positively impact your day-to-day living; whether this be the development of specific skills, a greater understanding of yourself or your feelings.
I work with a range of complex issues such as anxiety, addiction, depression, grief, emotional distress and anger.
We all deserve both psychological and emotional well-being!   Yet, sometimes ‘life’ grinds us down, we often lose our emotional resources and the psychological tools required to live a healthy and empowering lifestyle. As a counsellor and psychotherapist, my focus is to support individuals through distress and times of crisis.  Whatever your individual situation may be, my aim is to provide you with support in identifying any changes that can positively impact your day-to-day living; whether this be the development of specific skills, a greater understanding of yourself or your feelings.
01224 002528 View 01224 002528
Photo of Anne Thompson, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Anne Thompson
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Aberdeen AB10
I have specialised experience working with addiction in alcohol and drugs.
Need space to talk? I’m Anne a qualified counsellor. I’m here to support you will life difficulties and struggles. I try to offer a safe and non-judgemental space where we can explore your thoughts, feelings, emotions, experiences and behaviours together. These can be linked to the past, present or future. In the therapy space empathy, acceptance and congruence is offered. A selection of therapeutic tools can be used such as cognitive behaviour worksheets, mindfulness exercises, motivational intervention, emotional regulation techniques, inner child and attachment work, planning and goal setting.
I have specialised experience working with addiction in alcohol and drugs.
Need space to talk? I’m Anne a qualified counsellor. I’m here to support you will life difficulties and struggles. I try to offer a safe and non-judgemental space where we can explore your thoughts, feelings, emotions, experiences and behaviours together. These can be linked to the past, present or future. In the therapy space empathy, acceptance and congruence is offered. A selection of therapeutic tools can be used such as cognitive behaviour worksheets, mindfulness exercises, motivational intervention, emotional regulation techniques, inner child and attachment work, planning and goal setting.
01224 007435 View 01224 007435
Photo of Emma Louise Longhurst, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Emma Louise Longhurst
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Aberdeen AB10
I specialise in various areas, including but not limited to abuse, addiction, anger management, anxiety, bereavement, child-related issues, cultural issues, depression, identity, stress, pregnancy-related issues, relationships, self-esteem, self-harm, spiritual abuse, spirituality, and trauma. My expertise in these areas allows me to tailor therapy to meet the unique needs and goals of each client, promoting their overall well-being and personal development.
I specialise in various areas, including but not limited to abuse, addiction, anger management, anxiety, bereavement, child-related issues, cultural issues, depression, identity, stress, pregnancy-related issues, relationships, self-esteem, self-harm, spiritual abuse, spirituality, and trauma. My expertise in these areas allows me to tailor therapy to meet the unique needs and goals of each client, promoting their overall well-being and personal development.
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Photo of Dr David Cunningham, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr David Cunningham
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, I’m David, a Counselling Psychologist. I’m here to provide a supportive and respectful space where we can work together to overcome any challenges you’re facing. I help adults, teens, couples, and families using therapies tailored to your unique needs. With over six years of experience in third-sector organisations and the NHS. I have helped clients navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, trauma, bereavement, cancer, addiction, suicidal thoughts, and gender identity issues. My approach focuses on building a trusting therapeutic relationship.
Hi, I’m David, a Counselling Psychologist. I’m here to provide a supportive and respectful space where we can work together to overcome any challenges you’re facing. I help adults, teens, couples, and families using therapies tailored to your unique needs. With over six years of experience in third-sector organisations and the NHS. I have helped clients navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, trauma, bereavement, cancer, addiction, suicidal thoughts, and gender identity issues. My approach focuses on building a trusting therapeutic relationship.
01479 787946 View 01479 787946
Photo of Gillian Marjorie Murray-Smith - GMS Counselling, MCOSCA, Counsellor
GMS Counselling
Counsellor, MCOSCA
Verified Verified
Aberdeen AB15
In a world where we have so many avenues to communicate with others, it seems like no one is actually listening which can create a sense of loneliness and isolation. You don't want to burden others with your issues, it's too personal, or they have their own. But just having that space for you, regularly, with someone who you know will show empathy, respect and honesty, who will give you time to process issues that are preventing you from moving on is a space you really need.
In a world where we have so many avenues to communicate with others, it seems like no one is actually listening which can create a sense of loneliness and isolation. You don't want to burden others with your issues, it's too personal, or they have their own. But just having that space for you, regularly, with someone who you know will show empathy, respect and honesty, who will give you time to process issues that are preventing you from moving on is a space you really need.
01224 007870 View 01224 007870
Photo of Linda Smith, MBACP, Counsellor
Linda Smith
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Aberdeen AB12
Sometimes we experience changes or traumas that leave us struggling with the pressures of life, relationships, work, or studies. This can affect our self-esteem, our sense of identity, and our ability to cope. This can become overwhelming and may lead us to unhelpful or harmful thoughts and behaviours. With help, we can overcome our difficulties and learn to manage our emotions more effectively. With compassion, empathy, respect, and a safe space, we feel heard, considered, and valued. By understanding our thoughts and behaviours we can feel empowered to make positive changes that can lead us to fuller and more enjoyable lives.
Sometimes we experience changes or traumas that leave us struggling with the pressures of life, relationships, work, or studies. This can affect our self-esteem, our sense of identity, and our ability to cope. This can become overwhelming and may lead us to unhelpful or harmful thoughts and behaviours. With help, we can overcome our difficulties and learn to manage our emotions more effectively. With compassion, empathy, respect, and a safe space, we feel heard, considered, and valued. By understanding our thoughts and behaviours we can feel empowered to make positive changes that can lead us to fuller and more enjoyable lives.
0141 673 0253 View 0141 673 0253
Photo of Matthew Costello, MBACP, Counsellor
Matthew Costello
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aberdeen AB10
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. I believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life. 
I offer my services online and in-person, including a unique "walk and talk" option that combines the therapeutic benefits of nature
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. I believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life. 
I offer my services online and in-person, including a unique "walk and talk" option that combines the therapeutic benefits of nature
01700 801106 View 01700 801106
Photo of Rhona Gough, MBACP, Counsellor
Rhona Gough
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Aberdeen AB15
Life can bring loss, change and many challenges, and it is understandable that at times we might look for support in facing them. I aim to provide a safe confidential space to help you on your journey of self discovery; to enable you to examine your life and make new meaningful choices within it. I offer counselling to adults and young people, meeting face-to-face when COVID regulations permit and by telephone and online, which enables those at a geographic distance to connect with me. I also work for Aberdeen University offering counselling and facilitating psychoeducational workshops to the wider university community.
Life can bring loss, change and many challenges, and it is understandable that at times we might look for support in facing them. I aim to provide a safe confidential space to help you on your journey of self discovery; to enable you to examine your life and make new meaningful choices within it. I offer counselling to adults and young people, meeting face-to-face when COVID regulations permit and by telephone and online, which enables those at a geographic distance to connect with me. I also work for Aberdeen University offering counselling and facilitating psychoeducational workshops to the wider university community.
01224 007175 View 01224 007175
Photo of Dariusz Bogucki, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Dariusz Bogucki
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I’m a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) with lifelong passion for understanding human psyche and making positive changes that will not only make you feel better but empower to life live to the fullest. Understanding how your mind works and what tricks it plays on you can bring relief and acceptance of that however you are feeling is completely valid. The acceptance that your feelings and thoughts are not your fault can empower and motivate to make positive changes in desired by you direction. Science based CBT combined with compassionate Mindfulness can change person life and release one’s full potential .
I’m a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) with lifelong passion for understanding human psyche and making positive changes that will not only make you feel better but empower to life live to the fullest. Understanding how your mind works and what tricks it plays on you can bring relief and acceptance of that however you are feeling is completely valid. The acceptance that your feelings and thoughts are not your fault can empower and motivate to make positive changes in desired by you direction. Science based CBT combined with compassionate Mindfulness can change person life and release one’s full potential .
01224 007736 View 01224 007736
Photo of Kenneth McLeod - Specialist Therapies, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Specialist Therapies
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Aberdeen AB25
For anxiety and mood problems we can work together for your recovery. Only evidenced approaches are used so that you can be assured that you are doing the right thing. You are important, and so is your recovery. I have been working successfully in mental health recovery for a number of years, including the teaching and training of other therapists. We begin by having a shared understanding of your problem. We work together using techniques that are demonstrated to be successful. Therapy can be either face-to-face or virtual. it's time to make the right move. it's time to move on, and we can do it! The Future Belongs to You.
For anxiety and mood problems we can work together for your recovery. Only evidenced approaches are used so that you can be assured that you are doing the right thing. You are important, and so is your recovery. I have been working successfully in mental health recovery for a number of years, including the teaching and training of other therapists. We begin by having a shared understanding of your problem. We work together using techniques that are demonstrated to be successful. Therapy can be either face-to-face or virtual. it's time to make the right move. it's time to move on, and we can do it! The Future Belongs to You.
01224 515259 View 01224 515259
Photo of Salvatore Andrea Caci, Counsellor
Salvatore Andrea Caci
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Online Only
What happened to us, doesn't have to define us. The narrative of our issues can be transformed in something different. A healing story that can give you empowerment and freedom. Maybe you are dealing with anxiety, depression, anger. Maybe you are looking for happiness or you feel you are lost. Or maybe, you still don't know what's missing. Regardless, I understand it's important for you to know how to cope, where you want to go in your life and what really matters to you. Finding and/or redefine your personal story, that fits your own true self, may give you the answers you are looking for.
What happened to us, doesn't have to define us. The narrative of our issues can be transformed in something different. A healing story that can give you empowerment and freedom. Maybe you are dealing with anxiety, depression, anger. Maybe you are looking for happiness or you feel you are lost. Or maybe, you still don't know what's missing. Regardless, I understand it's important for you to know how to cope, where you want to go in your life and what really matters to you. Finding and/or redefine your personal story, that fits your own true self, may give you the answers you are looking for.
01224 007284 View 01224 007284
Photo of Faye Pirotta, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Faye Pirotta
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aberdeen AB25
If you are experiencing difficulties due to: anxiety, stress, depression, difficult relationships, grief, trauma, self-esteem, body image, you may wish a confidential, non-judgmental, and compassionate place where you can express how you feel, work on yourself and find a way forward. You may be looking for a professional who has the skills and expertise to sit, listen, and work with you with a commitment to understand and help you alleviate your emotional suffering and bring about a positive change in your life.
If you are experiencing difficulties due to: anxiety, stress, depression, difficult relationships, grief, trauma, self-esteem, body image, you may wish a confidential, non-judgmental, and compassionate place where you can express how you feel, work on yourself and find a way forward. You may be looking for a professional who has the skills and expertise to sit, listen, and work with you with a commitment to understand and help you alleviate your emotional suffering and bring about a positive change in your life.
01224 087245 View 01224 087245
Photo of Dr Vivian Tu, PhD, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Dr Vivian Tu
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP
Verified Verified
Aberdeen AB10
Are you feeling trapped, stuck and finding it difficult to get out of bed in the morning? The daily life feels tasteless and numb to you. You seem to remember who you used to be, but who you are, at this stage, uneasy, emotional, is very foreign to you. On the counselling journey with me, I will explore and assist you to trace down to the rootcauses of these symptoms (e.g. palpitations, panic, low mood, anger), and release the stuck parts in you from the past memories and present experiences.
Are you feeling trapped, stuck and finding it difficult to get out of bed in the morning? The daily life feels tasteless and numb to you. You seem to remember who you used to be, but who you are, at this stage, uneasy, emotional, is very foreign to you. On the counselling journey with me, I will explore and assist you to trace down to the rootcauses of these symptoms (e.g. palpitations, panic, low mood, anger), and release the stuck parts in you from the past memories and present experiences.
01224 007094 View 01224 007094
Photo of Refana Saleem, MSc, PMCOSCA, Counsellor
Refana Saleem Saleem
Counsellor, MSc, PMCOSCA
Verified Verified
Aberdeen AB10
I have vast experience of working in areas such as: Affairs, Communication Breakdown, Conflict, Abuse, and Trauma. I work with each person's uniqueness in diverse situations including supporting each individual to find more satisfying ways to manage the challenges they are experiencing such as Anxiety, Low Mood, Depression or even Bereavement . I also offer Supervision to Counsellors and those in the helping professions. I also offer telephone and Online Counselling. I am a COSCA Practitioner Member. I have a Masters in Counselling from Abertay University. I have a Diploma in Relationship Counselling and I am also a Trainer.
I have vast experience of working in areas such as: Affairs, Communication Breakdown, Conflict, Abuse, and Trauma. I work with each person's uniqueness in diverse situations including supporting each individual to find more satisfying ways to manage the challenges they are experiencing such as Anxiety, Low Mood, Depression or even Bereavement . I also offer Supervision to Counsellors and those in the helping professions. I also offer telephone and Online Counselling. I am a COSCA Practitioner Member. I have a Masters in Counselling from Abertay University. I have a Diploma in Relationship Counselling and I am also a Trainer.
01236 914479 View 01236 914479
Photo of Louise Hutcheson-Laird - Louise Laird, MCOSCA, Counsellor
Louise Laird
Counsellor, MCOSCA
Verified Verified
Aberdeen AB10
Hi, I'm Louise a qualified counsellor in Aberdeenshire, and am passionate about working with adults experiencing severe anxiety, panic attacks, depression, stress, negative self-talk and overwhelm where I combine several years experience as a yoga and breathwork teacher.
Hi, I'm Louise a qualified counsellor in Aberdeenshire, and am passionate about working with adults experiencing severe anxiety, panic attacks, depression, stress, negative self-talk and overwhelm where I combine several years experience as a yoga and breathwork teacher.
01330 700461 View 01330 700461
Photo of Paul Matthew, MSc, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Paul Matthew
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Aberdeen AB10
Hi I'm Paul and I'm a Pluralistic Counsellor and Psychotherapist. I am experienced and flexible to work with any presenting issue. I can offer short or longer term therapy and work with you to find the best route for you. I have experience in Anxiety, Cancer and Long term illness, Depression, low mood, Feeling Sad, Uni Students, Relational issues, Bereavement, older Teenagers, Work related stress and redundancy, I can also work with anger, trauma and any other presenting issue.
Hi I'm Paul and I'm a Pluralistic Counsellor and Psychotherapist. I am experienced and flexible to work with any presenting issue. I can offer short or longer term therapy and work with you to find the best route for you. I have experience in Anxiety, Cancer and Long term illness, Depression, low mood, Feeling Sad, Uni Students, Relational issues, Bereavement, older Teenagers, Work related stress and redundancy, I can also work with anger, trauma and any other presenting issue.
01382 919373 View 01382 919373
Photo of Dr Fiona McConnell, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Fiona McConnell
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Fiona. I am a HCPC registered, IFS trained Clinical Psychologist with 10+ years experience working with mental health. My main interests lie in working with relational and attachment trauma. I love working with people and I am interested in helping you discover what brought you to where you are now, the difficulties that feel stuck for you and then to work together to help you move forward in life.
My name is Fiona. I am a HCPC registered, IFS trained Clinical Psychologist with 10+ years experience working with mental health. My main interests lie in working with relational and attachment trauma. I love working with people and I am interested in helping you discover what brought you to where you are now, the difficulties that feel stuck for you and then to work together to help you move forward in life.
0131 381 1382 View 0131 381 1382
Photo of Despina Andreou, MSc, BACP, Counsellor
Despina Andreou
Counsellor, MSc, BACP
Verified Verified
Aberdeen AB12
Hello, I'm glad you've taken this step towards exploring support, and I want to assure you that you're not alone on this journey. My name is Despina, and I'm here to listen, understand, and walk alongside you as you navigate whatever challenges you may be facing. In our time together, I hope to create a safe and compassionate space where you can express yourself freely, without judgment. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship concerns, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, I'm here to support you with empathy and respect.
Hello, I'm glad you've taken this step towards exploring support, and I want to assure you that you're not alone on this journey. My name is Despina, and I'm here to listen, understand, and walk alongside you as you navigate whatever challenges you may be facing. In our time together, I hope to create a safe and compassionate space where you can express yourself freely, without judgment. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship concerns, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, I'm here to support you with empathy and respect.
0141 673 0184 View 0141 673 0184
1

See more therapy options for Aberdeen

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.