Addiction Therapists in Quinte West, ON.

My belief is that all addiction is a distortion of connection with our wholeness. Some describe it as a spiritual disorder with a core of emptiness at the source. Whatever the conceptualization, there is always biopsychosocial involvement so my approach is holistic and will depend on a client's readiness, or in what stage of change a client presents. The treatment approach can range from utilizing harm reduction strategies, deeper psychodynamic work to resolve long standing wounds, family-based interventions or cognitive behavioural approaches. Cravings and compulsions can often be alleviated via the use of self-applied acupressure and/or hypnosis. EMDR may also be helpful.

[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

Feeling out of control and unable to stop engaging in harmful behaviours can feel shameful, over-whelming and hopeless. My approach to addiction treatment is based in a harm reduction model. This approach acknowledges that maintaining abstinence may not be a realistic goal. Without judgement we will work together to set realistic goals that seek to reduce the negative impacts of your addiction. You may choose to explore the roots of your addiction and any other related issues. It will always be up to you. Please reach out for a consult so we can assess whether I am the right therapist to help you move toward change and stability.

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.

Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and Alcohol use disorder (AUD) can affect mental and physical health, relationships, work, and quality of life. There are many factors that contribute to drug and alcohol use and addiction counselling can help a person explore these factors as well discuss motivation to change the cycle of addiction. I use a blend of CBT and DBT to help give practical skills to help with cravings, emotional regulation and thought processes. Addiction counselling works to: • Strengthen a persons self-worth • Develop alternative ways to manage stress • Prepare and manage triggers • Develop skills to help manage cravings • Help with broken relationship

Contrary to what is believed, addiction usually starts with a positive impact on a person’s life and even sometimes saves their life. However, as the time goes by, this creative adjustment becomes outdated and turns into a problem. Therefore, working with addiction should not be about illuminating the symptoms or the manifestations of the addiction, but rather trying to understand the reasons underlying the addiction and the function that it used to serve. A successful recovery is only possible through understanding and even respecting the addiction. Schedule a free 15-minute consultation to see if we are a good fit.