Top addiction therapists in 14814: Big Flats, NY.

Addiction is a mental health condition and I treat addiction by a multi-pronged process predominately from a Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) model. I help my clients understand the reasons they use a substance or engage in an addictive behavior, teach them skills regulate their emotions and tolerance distress that might otherwise lead them to engage in their addiction, and address any underlying issues that contribute to their addiction. I also help clients with with concerns about their substance use or compulsive behavior to avoid developing addictions.

We practice a harm reduction model, as we understand that abstinence is a process that can take time to start and has many stages. We start with reducing the harm that substances are causing in your life by decreasing frequency and/or amount of the substance used. This includes changing one’s environment and increasing self control. Overall, we work on helping our clients understand the cycle of addiction, helping you to find ways to counter the addiction cycle with new learned skills, perhaps a new environment, and an empowered sense of self.

Many factors, such as family history, genetics, social pressure, self-medication and emotional numbing, can contribute to the onset of active addiction. Whether alcohol, drugs or behavioral addictions, they all lead to a disconnect from one's inner self. One client described it as "an inner thief stealing one's deepest needs and life force while acting like a best friend.” But, with a willingness to look more closely, addictive patterns can be understood and reshaped. What is needed most, rather than shame and condemnation, is compassionate inquiry. No matter how many attempts at sobriety, self-acceptance, self-love and overcoming stigma is the core of the process.