Addiction Therapists in St Catharines, ON.

My work in addictions take the approach that the addiction serves a purpose to the client and that without understanding the purpose, recovery is very difficult. We focus on strategies to manage/lessen/eliminate substance use while at the same exploring how substance use has served us - such as protecting us from uncomfortable feelings, or making us feel invincible, or bringing us a sense of control, to name a few.

I help people from diverse backgrounds recover from various addictions including drugs, alcohol, and gambling through psychoeducation, using different modalities, various intervention strategies and treatment approaches to counsel patients through all stages of recovery. I use both abstinence and harm reduction models to support changes in daily functioning

I provide individuals with a safe space where they will have the opportunity to openly address any aspect of their life that may present difficulties while trying to overcome addiction. Psychotherapy can also be effective for individuals who have a history of addiction and are emotionally and interpersonally vulnerable. I can offer coping-focused psychotherapy to help you learn the practical and specific ways in which you can cope with your problems. These may be addiction, relapse prevention, panic, anxiety, and depression.

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.

Addictions can appear in many forms including substance addictions, internet addiction, sex addiction, gambling addiction, shopping addiction, pornography, social media, excessive exercise, food, etc. Strong cravings with a loss of control can lead people to become addicted in spite of possible dire consequences. Counselling is one of several possible treatments available for addictions. Individual, group and family therapies have been found to be helpful in order to inform a client regarding the harmful effects the addiction may have on themselves, their friends, family and society. Promoting physical, emotional and spiritual well being is often critical for the rehabilitation process.

Addictions often go hand-in-hand with emotional distress, masking a deeper pain beneath the surface. Finding relief from intrusive thoughts or escalating anxiety/panic is necessary and understandably leads many to distract or avoid the discomfort using substances in excess. Having a non-judgmental safe space to reflect on life is crucial for healing. You're invited to reach out and see if psychotherapy online is right for you.

My approach to counselling is attachment based and trauma informed. I have extensive training in emotionally focused therapy, the gold standard in couple's therapy, which I apply in my work with couples, families, and individuals. Addiction often isolates us and keeps us from forming meaningful and intimate relationships with those most important to us. During our sessions I will be engaged and focused on helping you to make the positive changes you are looking to make and helping you to build stronger and more authentic relationships.

Addiction is a multifaceted challenge, and understanding its roots is key to recovery. While I do not offer therapy sessions for addiction, we have several addiction specialists at Psychotherapy Collective who are available to schedule a free 15-minute consultation with you to ensure they are the proper fit for your journey. Visit our profiles at https://www.psychotherapycollective.ca/our-team