Addiction Therapists in Hamilton, ON.

Addictions grip both the mind and the body in ways that feel unrelenting. When caught up in the cycle, it may seem like recovery is out of reach. However, in the comfort of a caring, empathetic, non- judgmental therapist who understands the link between your brain and addictive behaviours, new patterns and routines of adaptive living can be enabled. As a therapist who embodies these qualities and is knowledgeable in replacing old habits with ones that will enrich your life, my goal is to assist you every step of the way in ensuring this is the reward for your commitment.

Having an addiction is not a sign of weakness or lack of character. In fact, reaching out for help and being open to change takes a great deal of strength. My approach is one of openness and non-judgment. I follow a harm reduction approach meaning that I respect my clients right to set their own goals which will then guide our sessions. I appreciate that not everyone is ready to, nor wants to, work towards full sobriety. Harm reduction is about reducing the negative impact that substance use has on that person’s well-being and life. I strongly believe that any positive change is a success. If you think that my approach would work for you, please book a free consultation.

Addiction can be a scary thing that is often surrounded by ambiguity and confusion: why do I continue to use when I know it is bad for me? Why do I want to use in the first place? Why can't I seem to stop using and why cant I change? In working with clients, step 1 of our work is figuring out the answers to these questions and figuring out why addiction occurs in the first place. After this, we explore tools, resources, and therapies that will best work for clients in helping them create the changes they need and to promote the lives they want.

If we do something repeatedly, that we would rather not do, then we have an addiction. The problem with addictions is that people get hurt. The addicted person may not recognize the seriousness of their situation, but eventually both the addict and their loved ones suffer tremendously in a state of helplessness. Many families have been destroyed from addictive behaviour such as substance addiction (drugs/alcohol), gambling, sexual addictions, gaming/internet addictions. A counsellor can help. Workshops, groups, individual or family counselling can assist in breaking the devastating cycle of addiction. Coping skills and emotional awareness to negotiate compelling urges and compulsive in

It is very difficult, and it is a process, to make the changes necessary to stop abusing substances or performing an addictive behaviour e.g. gambling. Often there is a misconception that the difficulty in quitting has something to do with moral character or willpower, but nothing could be further from the truth. By the time a substance or behaviour becomes a problem in someone’s life there have been changes in the brain and body that make quitting a complex process. Through exploring the role the substance/behaviour originally played in the life of the individual, the underlying issue creating the feelings the substance/behaviour “soothes” can be determined and a new coping skill learned.

Struggling with substance use or addiction can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. I’m Simona Ilieva, a Registered Psychotherapist specializing in addiction therapy. Together, we’ll explore the underlying causes of your substance use, identify triggers, and develop personalized strategies for lasting recovery. Whether you’re dealing with alcohol, drugs, or other addictive behaviors, I’m here to support you in taking back control of your life. Recovery is not just about breaking free from substance use—it’s about rediscovering your strengths and building a life you feel proud of. Healing is possible, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s take that first st

If we do something repeatedly, that we would rather not do, then we have an addiction. The problem with addictions is that people get hurt. The addicted person may not recognize the seriousness of their situation, but eventually both the addict and their loved ones suffer tremendously in a state of helplessness. Many families have been destroyed from addictive behaviour such as substance addiction (drugs/alcohol), gambling, sexual addictions, gaming/internet addictions. A counsellor can help. Workshops, groups, individual or family counselling can assist in breaking the devastating cycle of addiction. Coping skills and emotional awareness to negotiate compelling urges and compulsive in

I have helped literally thousands of men who struggle with pornography addiction and the grief it brings to their marriage. The toxicity of shame and secrecy help keep this struggle private until caught. This addiction is not an easy one to win against on your own and needs the attention of a therapist. Most men have no idea why they are so locked into this addiction. In the last few years, women too are becoming increasingly more caught in the web of porn addiction, equally with no idea why. Although porn addictions look sexual they are often another issues being acted out sexually. This is where I have been so successful in helping people with this addiction and find the freedom they want.

Addiction, whether to substances, alcohol, or behaviours like gambling or pornography, often serves as a coping mechanism for deeper emotional pain, loss, or unmet needs. Together, we’ll explore what’s driving these patterns beneath the surface. I provide a safe, compassionate space to help you understand addiction’s roots and develop healthier ways to cope, build resilience, and reclaim control.

Having an addiction is rarely a choice that an individual makes when they first decide to use a substance. Addictions can often leave individuals feeling helpless and overcome with guilt for the way the addiction has impacted their relationships. Despite this, there is hope for someone with an addiction. With supportive counselling, an individual can overcome their addiction by recognizing their triggers and building on their current life skills to handle their triggers.

Is replacing your addiction with more healthy practices a significant challenge as you struggle with addiction. I can help with strategies to divert your attention from addiction. I can also offer a place to discuss shame and overcome. In addition, we can talk about ways to repair your relationship with yourself and the people in your life.

Do you or a loved one need help for alcohol or substance abuse? Are addictions to pornography, sex and/or the internet hurting the people in your life? Do you have a gambling, drug, alcohol, food, sex, work, and/or shopping addiction (s) that are impacting your life? Are you impacted by your family member's addiction? Counselling for addiction and codependency is available. I am an adult child of an alcoholic. I am a recovering addict myself. It takes one to know one, and it takes one to help one! You do not need to struggle alone, let me be your one! I've Got your Back. We can work holistically and also utilize the 12 Steps. Note: I am a Cannabis Friendly Psychotherapist