Addiction Therapists in Vernon, BC.

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 ....

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.

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.

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.

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.

Addiction is NOT a choice. You don't wake up one day and say, "Hey! I'm going to start doing drugs." No, substance use is a coping mechanism and escape from (more than likely) a whole bunch of trauma from your younger years. Soon though, the "escape" became an additional problem to deal with. Are you tired of the rollercoaster? The shame? The guilt? The regret? It won't be easy and it doesn't start with the addiction itself ... healing starts with working on the underlying traumas. You'll need to learn a lot of new skills to control thoughts and cravings, instead of letting them control you, and then we can gently work through the traumas. You don't have to carry those burdens forever.

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.