Addiction Therapists in Armstrong, BC.

The question is not "why the addiction but why the pain" - Gabor Mate. Addiction is rooted in human suffering and complex social problems. Drawing on the work of Gabor Mate, Narrative Therapy, Systemic Family Therapy, and Response-Based practice, I will begin to address the pain and suffering experienced by individuals and families. We will also exploring the social context the contributes to an addiction culture. One of the goals is to start to separate the person from the addiction. Each individual is so much more than the addiction they experience.

Robin Menard has her Masters in Social Work and over three years full-time experience working in the field of addictions. She uses a biopsychosocial holistic approach. She does comprehensive assessments to determine strengths and deficits emotionally, cognitively, mentally, physically, socially, as well as assessing negative core beliefs about self, others, and the world. She works along side her clients to draw up comprehensive treatment plans which create transparency, focus and direction to help her clients heal in every area needed. Some of the benefits that clients have reported when working with Robin include: increased self-esteem, increased competency, reconnection with family, increased ....

“It was a long and heavy day and I just need to break the edge.” “I communicate better after few drinks” “I can’t fall asleep if I don’t have my…” When a substance becomes a “priority”, or becomes overused, it begins to creep into and destroy an individual’s health, family, relationship and even work. The question becomes "Do I have control over it or does it have control over me?". Often substances are used as coping mechanism without realizing that it often creates even more anxiety and depression, leaving a person feeling more stress and low down the road. Feeling anxious without a "quick fix" or a “temporary Band-Aid” is a strong indicator that a person is or has lost control with the desired substance. In counselling, we work to support...(view profile to read more)

Are you struggling with addiction or mental health issues? Psychotherapy and addiction counselling can provide the support you need to overcome these challenges. Psychotherapy helps individuals gain insight into their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, while addiction counselling focuses on addressing addictive behaviors and developing coping mechanisms. These therapeutic approaches can play a crucial role in your journey towards recovery and overall well-being.

Often in life, stress, responsibility and unhappiness can lead to managing/medicating with a variety of substances; marijuana, alcohol, gambling, sex, internet, drugs, ect. This can lead to an unbalance in the usage of these substances, create a significant strain and negative affect on relationships, family, work and one self. We will work to uncover the motivating force that has driven to substance abuse and help to regain control. Through this work we will strive to regain a healthy and balanced life, free of addiction or dependency.

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.

What emotions are your addiction trying to mask? What are you escaping from? Is your addiction costing you your relationship, your family, your work? Your addiction or dependency, is serving a purpose. Let’s explore, understand and uncover what that purpose is and what the core issues are. It’s time to lead a healthier and more intentional life.

Addictions do not exist within a vacuum - there are deeper causes and perpetuating factors. I work with you as a unique individual to make decisions and changes that are meaningful and sustainable for you. Your support network also plays a role. I include the system within which you live to help you maintain or build healthy supports that will help foster an enviornment to help you change and maintain the changes that you want to make.

Whether it is a physical addiction or substance abuse, there are areas in your life that are too big to control by yourself. Your addiction is hurting those you love most in your life, and you can't seem to stop. Counselling can help you identify patterns your addictive behaviour. Together with your counsellor you will see an awareness of what drives your addiction, a clear plan of action for when cravings strike, and a restored and reinforced relationships in your life.

I am adept at support clients in finding the root of their addiction whether it be trauma or challenges with emotional regulation. Addictive behaviour always makes sense. Unfortunately, there is still so much shame, judgement and misunderstanding when it comes to addiction. I will help you make sense of your addictive behaviour and achieve freedom.