Addiction Therapists in West Coast

Photo of Bridget Stella Wilson, Counsellor
Bridget Stella Wilson
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The following questions answered in the affirmative may indicate sex addiction: Are you preoccupied with sexually acting out? Are you ashamed of your behaviour? Have you sought treatment or asked for help for your sexual behaviour? Have you hurt others? Do you feel out of control? Do you feel sad afterwards? .
I specialise in treating people with addiction, as well as their families. I believe the disease of addiction is one that we can recover from and that it's a health problem that can be treated successfully. My approach is client-centred using modalities including motivational interviewing, CBT and the 12 Steps. I studied at the Hazelden Graduate School of Addiction Studies in Minnesota, USA, graduating in 2009. I am registered with the New Zealand Addiction Practitioners' Association, Dapaanz, a professional organisation with a code of ethics. I am also a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT).
The following questions answered in the affirmative may indicate sex addiction: Are you preoccupied with sexually acting out? Are you ashamed of your behaviour? Have you sought treatment or asked for help for your sexual behaviour? Have you hurt others? Do you feel out of control? Do you feel sad afterwards? .
I specialise in treating people with addiction, as well as their families. I believe the disease of addiction is one that we can recover from and that it's a health problem that can be treated successfully. My approach is client-centred using modalities including motivational interviewing, CBT and the 12 Steps. I studied at the Hazelden Graduate School of Addiction Studies in Minnesota, USA, graduating in 2009. I am registered with the New Zealand Addiction Practitioners' Association, Dapaanz, a professional organisation with a code of ethics. I am also a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT).
0800 627 004 x57 View 0800 627 004 x57
Photo of Georgia Harrison
Georgia Harrison
Verified Verified
Westport 7825  (Online Only)
Please contact me via email, rather than phone call. Cheers.
Please contact me via email, rather than phone call. Cheers.
0800 451 540 x23 View 0800 451 540 x23
Photo of Catherine Anne Vos - Henderson Counselling & Guidance Services, Counsellor
Henderson Counselling & Guidance Services
Counsellor
Verified Verified
As an Assistant Managing Ambassador for international online transgender support groups with 45 000 plus members, I'm also specialised in counselling for transgender and gender-diverse communities to assist with making their transition smooth as possible. I also assist with their mental health issues ie. suicidal, anxiety and depression issues within themselves and their partners/spouses and/or family relations. I help them to accept their true identity and place in the community and cope with the changes connected with real-life transitioning and fulfilment of their desires to live a happy and stress-free life.
As an Assistant Managing Ambassador for international online transgender support groups with 45 000 plus members, I'm also specialised in counselling for transgender and gender-diverse communities to assist with making their transition smooth as possible. I also assist with their mental health issues ie. suicidal, anxiety and depression issues within themselves and their partners/spouses and/or family relations. I help them to accept their true identity and place in the community and cope with the changes connected with real-life transitioning and fulfilment of their desires to live a happy and stress-free life.
0800 447 359 x47 View 0800 447 359 x47

Online Therapists

Photo of John Newton - John Newton, psychodynamic therapist, PhD
However we grow up, childhood experience creates habits and expectations that shape our adult selves. Often these habits seem to get in our way. What once kept us safe may now cause us pain, inhibition, depression, addiction and more. Therapy begins with the experience of being heard, without judgement. The client is the expert on their own way of living. So I ask them to teach me about themselves, while I try to get a feeling for the things that frustrate them and how they might find the freedom to live richer, more satisfying lives.
However we grow up, childhood experience creates habits and expectations that shape our adult selves. Often these habits seem to get in our way. What once kept us safe may now cause us pain, inhibition, depression, addiction and more. Therapy begins with the experience of being heard, without judgement. The client is the expert on their own way of living. So I ask them to teach me about themselves, while I try to get a feeling for the things that frustrate them and how they might find the freedom to live richer, more satisfying lives.
0800 468 212 x80 View 0800 468 212 x80
Photo of Cobus du Plessis, MA, Psychologist
Cobus du Plessis
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
I am registered within the clinical scope of psychology with the New Zealand Psychologists Board, with a special interest in working with adults, couples, adolescents, trauma, addiction, telehealth, and professional business coaching.
Therapy is a specialized conversation, which is both a science and an art. It creates a deep relational connection and a safe space, where we can heal, grow stronger, or just move forward. We do this by discovering who we are, what we want, and how to get there. I am passionate about meeting people, journeying with them, facilitating change, and watching as they become more at ease within themself, with others, their world, and spirituality.
I am registered within the clinical scope of psychology with the New Zealand Psychologists Board, with a special interest in working with adults, couples, adolescents, trauma, addiction, telehealth, and professional business coaching.
Therapy is a specialized conversation, which is both a science and an art. It creates a deep relational connection and a safe space, where we can heal, grow stronger, or just move forward. We do this by discovering who we are, what we want, and how to get there. I am passionate about meeting people, journeying with them, facilitating change, and watching as they become more at ease within themself, with others, their world, and spirituality.
0800 447 264 x31 View 0800 447 264 x31
Photo of Lesley Gamlen, PBANZ, Psychotherapist
Lesley Gamlen
Psychotherapist, PBANZ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I have worked in addiction recovery, grief, living with illness, caring for others, improving esteem and confidence, relationships, anxiety and more.
Kia ora. Do you want to talk about your concerns? Thinking about making changes? Looking for a safe and accepting environment? I provide an opportunity for you to discuss your life openly, and to consider the influences of your thoughts and experiences with curiosity. You will explore new strategies, shape your ways of coping, and make choices about the direction you want your life to develop. During therapy, I encourage exploring ways to make sense of your life, past, present and future. Anyone can benefit from exploring and having more awareness of who they are. Knowing ourselves with love and respect enhances life immeasurably.
I have worked in addiction recovery, grief, living with illness, caring for others, improving esteem and confidence, relationships, anxiety and more.
Kia ora. Do you want to talk about your concerns? Thinking about making changes? Looking for a safe and accepting environment? I provide an opportunity for you to discuss your life openly, and to consider the influences of your thoughts and experiences with curiosity. You will explore new strategies, shape your ways of coping, and make choices about the direction you want your life to develop. During therapy, I encourage exploring ways to make sense of your life, past, present and future. Anyone can benefit from exploring and having more awareness of who they are. Knowing ourselves with love and respect enhances life immeasurably.
0800 451 520 x37 View 0800 451 520 x37
Photo of Jennifer de Costa - Jennifer - Couples Psychologist & Counsellor, MPsych, MNZAC, Counsellor
Jennifer - Couples Psychologist & Counsellor
Counsellor, MPsych, MNZAC
Verified Verified
Jennifer is an extremely experienced clinician with both New Zealand and international experience. Client’s describe her as friendly, approachable and wise. She has worked in the fields of Addiction and Counselling for the past 23 years and uses a range of counselling approaches which include client-centered Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Transactional Analysis (TA) and Motivational Interviewing (MI). Jennifer also uses couple therapy approaches like Emotionally Focussed Therapy (EFT) and Gottman Method that support couples in their journey to a healthy and loving relationship.
Jennifer is an extremely experienced clinician with both New Zealand and international experience. Client’s describe her as friendly, approachable and wise. She has worked in the fields of Addiction and Counselling for the past 23 years and uses a range of counselling approaches which include client-centered Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Transactional Analysis (TA) and Motivational Interviewing (MI). Jennifer also uses couple therapy approaches like Emotionally Focussed Therapy (EFT) and Gottman Method that support couples in their journey to a healthy and loving relationship.
0800 627 050 x68 View 0800 627 050 x68
Photo of Dr. Anna Reeves, PhD, MNZAC, Counsellor
Dr. Anna Reeves
Counsellor, PhD, MNZAC
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
Qualifications: Toi Paematua Diploma of Māori Art (Raranga) (TWoA), Bachelor of Arts (Education) (Massey), Maunga Kura Toi Bachelor of Māori Art (Rauangi) (TWoA), Graduate Certificate in Health Science ( Addiction & Co-Existing Disorders) (AUT), Postgraduate Diploma of Education (Counselling) (Massey), Master of Counselling Studies (Massey), PhD (Auckland).
I have been working in mental health and talking based therapies since 2010. I have experience supporting people with stress, workplace bullying, parenting, relationship difficulties, attachment issues, grief, loss, pregnancy loss (including miscarriage and termination), depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, substance abuse, domestic violence, sexual abuse and sexual assault. I have been operating a successful private practice in the Hawkes Bay area since 2019.
Qualifications: Toi Paematua Diploma of Māori Art (Raranga) (TWoA), Bachelor of Arts (Education) (Massey), Maunga Kura Toi Bachelor of Māori Art (Rauangi) (TWoA), Graduate Certificate in Health Science ( Addiction & Co-Existing Disorders) (AUT), Postgraduate Diploma of Education (Counselling) (Massey), Master of Counselling Studies (Massey), PhD (Auckland).
I have been working in mental health and talking based therapies since 2010. I have experience supporting people with stress, workplace bullying, parenting, relationship difficulties, attachment issues, grief, loss, pregnancy loss (including miscarriage and termination), depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, substance abuse, domestic violence, sexual abuse and sexual assault. I have been operating a successful private practice in the Hawkes Bay area since 2019.
0800 447 264 x64 View 0800 447 264 x64
Photo of Jane Lowe, NZAC - Provisional, Counsellor
Jane Lowe
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
Areas of practice include anxiety, depression, addiction, bipolar and psychosis.
I offer a warm, safe and confidential space where together we can explore challenges that you might be facing, issues that feel unresolved or previous experiences impacting you today. I am empathetic and non-judgmental. I establish a positive therapeutic relationship which is key to the success of therapy. I offer a wide range of frameworks, drawing from evidence based therapies so we can tailor an approach together that best fits you. Every client has different needs and respecting this uniqueness is essential. I also help develop self-awareness and a deeper understanding of how to live a fulfilled and happy life.
Areas of practice include anxiety, depression, addiction, bipolar and psychosis.
I offer a warm, safe and confidential space where together we can explore challenges that you might be facing, issues that feel unresolved or previous experiences impacting you today. I am empathetic and non-judgmental. I establish a positive therapeutic relationship which is key to the success of therapy. I offer a wide range of frameworks, drawing from evidence based therapies so we can tailor an approach together that best fits you. Every client has different needs and respecting this uniqueness is essential. I also help develop self-awareness and a deeper understanding of how to live a fulfilled and happy life.
0800 447 264 x83 View 0800 447 264 x83
Photo of Joseph van Zoomeren, PBANZ, Psychotherapist
Joseph van Zoomeren
Psychotherapist, PBANZ
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I have trained and worked in a therapeutic community that specializes in drug and alcohol addiction for the past 5 years.
Psychotherapy is a deeply personal journey. This journey is unique to each individual, where the journey may begin with seeking purpose in the person’s life or seeking to make meaning of life and its mysteries. It may involve seeking relief from emotional pain and suffering or unbearable feelings. It might also consist of confronting shadows from your past or healing from a traumatic past event. I see my work as a psychotherapist as accompanying you on your journey together, where I hope to support you in finding growth, balance, and a sense of harmony and peace. In addition, I offer supervision, and K9-assisted therapy.
I have trained and worked in a therapeutic community that specializes in drug and alcohol addiction for the past 5 years.
Psychotherapy is a deeply personal journey. This journey is unique to each individual, where the journey may begin with seeking purpose in the person’s life or seeking to make meaning of life and its mysteries. It may involve seeking relief from emotional pain and suffering or unbearable feelings. It might also consist of confronting shadows from your past or healing from a traumatic past event. I see my work as a psychotherapist as accompanying you on your journey together, where I hope to support you in finding growth, balance, and a sense of harmony and peace. In addition, I offer supervision, and K9-assisted therapy.
0800 627 003 x71 View 0800 627 003 x71
Photo of Shelley Simpson - Shelley Simpson Counselling, NZCCA, Counsellor
Shelley Simpson Counselling
Counsellor, NZCCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I have also worked with addiction, but my underlying interest is in trauma, which when left in the dark unspoken to breathe alone, affects relationships with self and with others, and it affects the way we view our world.
I understand that some people feel rather nervous about coming to counselling. The thought of being vulnerable as you share personal strories and struggles with a stranger can feel daunting. Change is uncomfortable, but if you are reading this I imagine you are wanting something to change. You are stronger than you know. As a trained professional I work with all demographics, where no story is too big or too small. I promise to be non-judgemental, empathetic, caring, and to work safely. In our journey together you will always have autonomy as we assess and reassess the goals you are wanting to achieve.
I have also worked with addiction, but my underlying interest is in trauma, which when left in the dark unspoken to breathe alone, affects relationships with self and with others, and it affects the way we view our world.
I understand that some people feel rather nervous about coming to counselling. The thought of being vulnerable as you share personal strories and struggles with a stranger can feel daunting. Change is uncomfortable, but if you are reading this I imagine you are wanting something to change. You are stronger than you know. As a trained professional I work with all demographics, where no story is too big or too small. I promise to be non-judgemental, empathetic, caring, and to work safely. In our journey together you will always have autonomy as we assess and reassess the goals you are wanting to achieve.
0800 468 212 x11 View 0800 468 212 x11
Photo of Chris Neuenfeldt, Psychologist
Chris Neuenfeldt
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Auckland 0814  (Online Only)
Dr. Chris Neuenfeldt is a registered Clinical Psychologist and member of the New Zealand Psychological Society. He completed his studies in Colorado before moving to Aotearoa New Zealand in 2018. Since then, he has practiced in Wellington and Napier, working with clients of all ages. He completed EMDRIA approved Level 1 & 2 pieces of training in 2010 and has advanced training in EMDR and substance use, recent traumatic events, group applications of EMDR, and performance enhancement utilising EMDR.
Dr. Chris Neuenfeldt is a registered Clinical Psychologist and member of the New Zealand Psychological Society. He completed his studies in Colorado before moving to Aotearoa New Zealand in 2018. Since then, he has practiced in Wellington and Napier, working with clients of all ages. He completed EMDRIA approved Level 1 & 2 pieces of training in 2010 and has advanced training in EMDR and substance use, recent traumatic events, group applications of EMDR, and performance enhancement utilising EMDR.
0800 327 477 View 0800 327 477
Photo of Donna Steel - Donna Steel Counselling, NZAC - Provisional, Counsellor
Donna Steel Counselling
Counsellor, NZAC - Provisional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Having ADHD, being adopted and personally experiencing the effects of family addiction I believe has assisted in providing me a deeper understanding when working with these issues.
I believe that it's my job to create a warm inviting space for my clients, a space where you are able to feel safe and be able to talk about what is important for you while exploring what you may need. I work from a Strength-Based Person-Centered approach and at times may utilize other modalities such as CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy), Narrative Therapy, Systemic Family Therapy, Trauma informed mindfulness, Art therapy using an Open Studio Therapy approach and Sand Tray Therapy. I also provide ACC Sensitive Claims Counselling.
Having ADHD, being adopted and personally experiencing the effects of family addiction I believe has assisted in providing me a deeper understanding when working with these issues.
I believe that it's my job to create a warm inviting space for my clients, a space where you are able to feel safe and be able to talk about what is important for you while exploring what you may need. I work from a Strength-Based Person-Centered approach and at times may utilize other modalities such as CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy), Narrative Therapy, Systemic Family Therapy, Trauma informed mindfulness, Art therapy using an Open Studio Therapy approach and Sand Tray Therapy. I also provide ACC Sensitive Claims Counselling.
0800 447 264 x32 View 0800 447 264 x32
Photo of Dr. J. C. Coetzee - JC Coetzee Clinical Psychologist Auckland Parnell, PhD, Psychologist
JC Coetzee Clinical Psychologist Auckland Parnell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
My areas of interest include mood and anxiety disorders, psychological trauma, couples therapy, ADHD, Autism, and addiction.
I am a Specialist Trauma Therapist and Clinical Psychologist in Auckland. I have psychology offices in Parnell Auckland and Ponsonby Auckland. I also offer remote/online services. I work with individuals and couples from diverse backgrounds, nationalities, and cultures. With more than 21 years of experience, I specialize in Trauma Focused Therapy, EMDR and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for anxiety and depression. I also offer couples therapy at my Auckland Ponsonby and Parnell Psychology offices. Specialist Trauma Therapy - Couples Therapy - Anxiety - Depression - ADHD & Autism Assessment - Auckland - Parnell - Ponsonby.
My areas of interest include mood and anxiety disorders, psychological trauma, couples therapy, ADHD, Autism, and addiction.
I am a Specialist Trauma Therapist and Clinical Psychologist in Auckland. I have psychology offices in Parnell Auckland and Ponsonby Auckland. I also offer remote/online services. I work with individuals and couples from diverse backgrounds, nationalities, and cultures. With more than 21 years of experience, I specialize in Trauma Focused Therapy, EMDR and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for anxiety and depression. I also offer couples therapy at my Auckland Ponsonby and Parnell Psychology offices. Specialist Trauma Therapy - Couples Therapy - Anxiety - Depression - ADHD & Autism Assessment - Auckland - Parnell - Ponsonby.
0800 447 359 x96 View 0800 447 359 x96
Rosemary A White
Counsellor, MNZCCA
Verified Verified
I have been trained in Narrative, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Child Play Therapy, EMDR, Domestic Violence, Depression, Eating Disorders, Addiction Recovery, Dream Therapy, Suicide, Grief, Post Abortion Therapy, Sexual Abuse and Trauma Therapy, Couple and Family Therapy, Grief Therapy.
Hi there - my background includes working as a Registered Nurse for 6 years, and then as an Independant Midwife for 10 years. I paused to raise and home-educate my 4 children (all adults now, and I'm now enjoying being a Grandma. I then retrained to gain a Batchelor in Counselling 12 years ago and have really enjoyed for the past 12 years working with children through to the elderly. I can see you face to face, or via zoom. I work in a number of different modalities to suit your needs. I work with all ethnicities.
I have been trained in Narrative, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Child Play Therapy, EMDR, Domestic Violence, Depression, Eating Disorders, Addiction Recovery, Dream Therapy, Suicide, Grief, Post Abortion Therapy, Sexual Abuse and Trauma Therapy, Couple and Family Therapy, Grief Therapy.
Hi there - my background includes working as a Registered Nurse for 6 years, and then as an Independant Midwife for 10 years. I paused to raise and home-educate my 4 children (all adults now, and I'm now enjoying being a Grandma. I then retrained to gain a Batchelor in Counselling 12 years ago and have really enjoyed for the past 12 years working with children through to the elderly. I can see you face to face, or via zoom. I work in a number of different modalities to suit your needs. I work with all ethnicities.
0800 627 004 x44 View 0800 627 004 x44
Photo of Daniella Wardley, MCouns, Counsellor
Daniella Wardley
Counsellor, MCouns
Verified Verified
I have attained specialized qualifications in substance and behavioural addictions, depression and anxiety disorders, PTSD, and C-PTSD.
I enjoy working with youth and adults who are challenged by depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, self-harming behaviours, anger management, and neurodiversity. I use EMDR therapy effectively for most mental health challenges. I have experience managing my own ADHD, and both my children are neurodiverse. I can help support you with your short and long-term goals so you can focus on your future self. I have worked in the addiction field for five years and can assist you in working on the roots of your addictive thinking and behaviors and work on the distress that underlies the addiction.
I have attained specialized qualifications in substance and behavioural addictions, depression and anxiety disorders, PTSD, and C-PTSD.
I enjoy working with youth and adults who are challenged by depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, self-harming behaviours, anger management, and neurodiversity. I use EMDR therapy effectively for most mental health challenges. I have experience managing my own ADHD, and both my children are neurodiverse. I can help support you with your short and long-term goals so you can focus on your future self. I have worked in the addiction field for five years and can assist you in working on the roots of your addictive thinking and behaviors and work on the distress that underlies the addiction.
0800 447 264 x97 View 0800 447 264 x97
Photo of Daniela Carolina Gonzalez-Bea - Nourishing Therapy & Creative Supervision , MA
Are you grappling with anxiety, grief, depression, confusion, sadness, loss, emptiness, or addiction? These struggles might be linked to past or ongoing trauma, such as violence, abuse, grief, migration, displacement, spiritual or physical loss, neurodivergence, or relationship ruptures, or not If traditional talk therapy is leaving you stuck, why not consider Creative Arts Therapy? Creative Arts Therapy is a unique psychotherapy modality that uses creative processes to help you explore feelings that can be difficult to express in words.
Are you grappling with anxiety, grief, depression, confusion, sadness, loss, emptiness, or addiction? These struggles might be linked to past or ongoing trauma, such as violence, abuse, grief, migration, displacement, spiritual or physical loss, neurodivergence, or relationship ruptures, or not If traditional talk therapy is leaving you stuck, why not consider Creative Arts Therapy? Creative Arts Therapy is a unique psychotherapy modality that uses creative processes to help you explore feelings that can be difficult to express in words.
0800 451 520 x60 View 0800 451 520 x60
Photo of Chris Fahy, Counsellor
Chris Fahy
Counsellor
Verified Verified
I know that both aggressive behavior and addiction can be stigmatized.
Men's Issues. Addictions and compulsions. Substance abuse, pornography, excessive anger. I like working with men ready to confront destructive self-defeating behaviors, who are challenged by addiction and other mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, anti-social behavior, anger, and PTSD. A person will respond emotionally once the mind gives meaning to the stimulus. I explain the reaction sequence and how it leads to the authorizing thought. This perpetuates the pattern of damaging behaviour.
I know that both aggressive behavior and addiction can be stigmatized.
Men's Issues. Addictions and compulsions. Substance abuse, pornography, excessive anger. I like working with men ready to confront destructive self-defeating behaviors, who are challenged by addiction and other mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, anti-social behavior, anger, and PTSD. A person will respond emotionally once the mind gives meaning to the stimulus. I explain the reaction sequence and how it leads to the authorizing thought. This perpetuates the pattern of damaging behaviour.
0800 468 212 x69 View 0800 468 212 x69
Photo of Whakiao F Taurima - Whakiao Taurima Counselling Limited, Counsellor
Whakiao Taurima Counselling Limited
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
I have been working in mental health, and addictions since 2013. I have experience supporting people with anxiety, attachment issues, depression, grief, loss and pregnancy loss (ectopic, miscarriage, and termination), relationship issues, sexual abuse, stress, substance use, and workplace issues. I have been operating a successful private practice in the Hawkes Bay area since 2022. An approved Ministry of Health Assessment Centre, I assess Substance Dependence and Risk of Re-offending of People Sentenced under Section 65 of the Land Transport Act 1998.
I have been working in mental health, and addictions since 2013. I have experience supporting people with anxiety, attachment issues, depression, grief, loss and pregnancy loss (ectopic, miscarriage, and termination), relationship issues, sexual abuse, stress, substance use, and workplace issues. I have been operating a successful private practice in the Hawkes Bay area since 2022. An approved Ministry of Health Assessment Centre, I assess Substance Dependence and Risk of Re-offending of People Sentenced under Section 65 of the Land Transport Act 1998.
0800 627 003 x44 View 0800 627 003 x44
Photo of Jenny Smith, MNZCCA, Counsellor
Jenny Smith
Counsellor, MNZCCA
Verified Verified
I often see clients with problems that societally are commonly associated with shame or guilt such as problematic sexual behaviours, alcohol/ substance addiction and other anti-social behaviours such as domestic violence.
Welcome! My name is Jen and I am a registered counsellor specialising in relationship work, sexual issues, addiction and trauma. I primarily work with adults and couples with a range of complex issues. I offer a non-judgmental environment and a relational approach with the hope that you and I can work together in order to find answers or solutions that you may be seeking. I am psychodynamically trained and enjoy the explorative process of therapy. I have been a therapist for several years and enjoy my work immensely. I approach each new client with curiosity, compassion and a hope for resolution. I look forward to hearing from you!
I often see clients with problems that societally are commonly associated with shame or guilt such as problematic sexual behaviours, alcohol/ substance addiction and other anti-social behaviours such as domestic violence.
Welcome! My name is Jen and I am a registered counsellor specialising in relationship work, sexual issues, addiction and trauma. I primarily work with adults and couples with a range of complex issues. I offer a non-judgmental environment and a relational approach with the hope that you and I can work together in order to find answers or solutions that you may be seeking. I am psychodynamically trained and enjoy the explorative process of therapy. I have been a therapist for several years and enjoy my work immensely. I approach each new client with curiosity, compassion and a hope for resolution. I look forward to hearing from you!
0800 447 359 x36 View 0800 447 359 x36

See more therapy options for West Coast

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.