Addiction Therapists in Cloverdale, BC.

Recovering from addiction is an greater process then just abstaining from a particular substance. Developing an awareness about the triggering issues that fuel the addiction is key towards developing the strength and skills that will propel you forward in living sober. I approach addictions from a perspective that develops positive skills and thoughts patterns to over come the triggers to use such as: anxiety, depression, trauma, and negative thought patterns, and self-medication. In addition, it is important to remember that with addiction partners, family, and friends are also affected. Working to rebuild bridges in this area, without demotivating or creating conflict is key.

Working through addiction can be a raw and difficult process, that often reveals the pain that the addiction was helping to disguise. My approach to treating addiction applies cognitive awareness and mindfulness strategies to managing and reducing addictive tendencies and impulses. Addiction tends to thrive in isolation, so having a guide to help anticipate the struggle of addiction, identify and exercise strategies that are clinically effective in relief of addiction, and trauma.

Many approaches to addiction emphasize willpower and deprivation, but this only works temporarily. Alcohol, substances, or other addictive behaviours like gambling and gaming offer short-term relief of underlying issues at a long-term cost to one's relationships and health. As an addiction counsellor, I can help you resolve underlying issues, regain control, and build a sense of meaning and purpose, so you can start living the life you want. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to addiction recovery. I meet each client where they are at, tailoring my approach to each person's unique needs. Send me a message and we can connect for a quick call to discuss next steps.

Often in life, stress, responsibility and unhappiness can lead to managing/medicating with a variety of substances; marijuana, alcohol, gambling, sex, internet, drugs, ect. This can lead to an unbalance in the usage of these substances, create a significant strain and negative affect on relationships, family, work and one self. We will work to uncover the motivating force that has driven to substance abuse and help to regain control. Through this work we will strive to regain a healthy and balanced life, free of addiction or dependency.

My hope for clients facing challenges with addictions is that they will develop an openness and willingness to explore the underlying issues related to the addictive behaviours. Clients will benefit from looking at childhood factors and relationships issues, both past and present. Clients will identify any limiting and self-defeating beliefs which may have contributed to harmful and alienating behaviours. Clients will learn to replace negative thought and behaviour patterns with self-affirming thoughts and behaviours. They will also explore and create support systems. It is my hope that clients will develop greater self-acceptance and kindness to Self.

Feeling stuck and ready for a change? Not sure how to start? I have supported people of all ages to identify patterns in their lives that negatively impact their quality of life and their relationships. If you feel pushed around by addiction, I'd be happy to help you learn how to change your relationship with: substances, compulsive internet use or gaming, impulsive spending, unhealthy eating. smoking and/or attraction to toxic relationships so that you may take your power back and live the life you really want to live.

“It was a long and heavy day and I just need to break the edge.” “I communicate better after few drinks” “I can’t fall asleep if I don’t have my…” When a substance becomes a “priority”, or becomes overused, it begins to creep into and destroy an individual’s health, family, relationship and even work. The question becomes "Do I have control over it or does it have control over me?". Often substances are used as coping mechanism without realizing that it often creates even more anxiety and depression, leaving a person feeling more stress and low down the road. Feeling anxious without a "quick fix" or a “temporary Band-Aid” is a strong indicator that a person is or has lost control with the desired substance. In counselling, we work to support...(view profile to read more)

I provide support for those considering or determined to reduce or eliminate substances, problem gambling, or other compulsion. Whether the goal is cutting out the addictive behaviour or minimizing its impact, I work through motivational interviewing to help people access addiction treatment if needed. If treatment is not needed, I target the underlying problem such as anxiety, depression, or family conflict. So if you have a family member who requires assessment and direction, or you yourself need to know that you addiction is in good hands while you focus on another problem, I can help.