Addiction Therapists in Melancthon, ON.

Let's face it, we all have some kind of addiction. Whether it is illegal or legal substances (like sugar or coffee), we all face this challenge to a greater or lesser degree. Guilt & shame will drive us further from ourselves & others. Armed with responsibility & a well stocked emotional toolbox, self management can be obtained and maintained. This is all very doable, with support and commitment to change.

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.

[I OFFER VIDEO SESSIONS THROUGHOUT ALBERTA AND ONTARIO]. I know what it is like to be an addict. I have been in recovery from my addiction for several years now. I am also an international expert in this field. My American textbook called “Addictions Counseling Today: Substances and Addictive Behaviors” was published recently. I have been a practicing psychologist since 1986. If you need a competent psychologist, book now at https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=14249112

Addiction is a complex and multifaceted issue that can impact many areas of your life, including relationships, work, and overall well-being. It’s essential to recognize that addiction is not merely a matter of willpower or moral failure; rather, it often involves deep-seated emotional and psychological factors that require compassionate understanding and support. My goal as your therapist is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore these issues openly. Recovery is a journey, and it may have ups and downs along the way. It’s important to be patient and compassionate with yourself as you navigate this process. I am here to support you every step of the way.

We are social beings who thrive when we feel connected to others. When we are unable to connect with our loved ones, we feel painful disconnection. These feelings of disconnection can lead us to explore other strategies to feel good, even temporarily. The use of substances or addictive behaviours can temporarily reduce our feelings of emotional and physical pain while increasing our sense of pleasurable feelings. Because it is temporary, we must continue to engage in these addictive practices to cope with feeling disconnected, and our use becomes more problematic and destructive. Together, we will explore the disconnection that is driving the addictive behaviour.

Addictions come in many forms and I work with many additions and "habits" including substance use, smoking and food addictions. Addictions (especially involving drug and alcohol) are strongly associated with trauma and I take a trauma-informed approach to therapy. I often utilize the potent tool of hypnosis when working with addictions and habit control.