Addiction Therapists in Hawaiian Gardens, CA.

In the initial stages of addiction, many addicts need to get involved in rehab. programs, support groups and many other important interventions. While I do get involved at any stage in the addiction process, frequently I am not as involved in the early stages. By this I mean simply that I do not involve myself in the "wrestling the addict to the ground" to convince them they need to quit. I get involved when the addict, who wants to learn to live successfully in terms of accepting life, addressing the complicated world of emotions, relationships and the living of a healthy, but fulfilling lifestyle.

Gambling addiction is often an understood issue, yet many people and family members struggle with. If you or a loved one struggles with gambling issues, I'd be happy to explore those areas with you to find ways to make changes and take back the control in your life that this barrier has created. The California Office of Problem Gambling offers free counseling services to individuals and family members impacted by this difficult obstacle. Please contact me for more information.

I specialize in helping people overcome sex or porn addiction. I know the chaos these addictions can bring to relationships. I have helped many people from the troubled beginning of their journey to the loving conclusion.Finding the right person to help you is a lot to do with chemistry. Please call me at (949) 288-3123 if you have any questions at all. I want your therapy journey to be as successful as possible.

Scientists have researched for years to isolate and locate a physiological marker that would identify someone’s predilection for addictive behavior. However, even if they were successful, any addict could tell you that addiction is much more than a physical problem. No matter the addiction, multiple factors contribute to the descent into this common form of mental illness. Physiological factors do play a role in addictions, as well as do family, cultural, environmental, and psychological considerations. So, which is it for you? If you are a typical addict, all of them apply to a certain extent. Relapses into addiction after typical rehab treatments, usually occur when all factors haven’t been ....

I've worked in inpatient chemical dependency, researched the use of videotaped feedback in alcoholism treatment, & taught a university graduate course in Substance Disorders & Treatment. While active addiction is generally best treated inpatient, outpatient counseling can be an indispensable support both preparing for and after initial recovery, preferably in conjunction with a strong 12-step program, for relapse prevention and for learning a new concept of self and building the skills and tools needed for sober daily living, such as boredom-avoidance, assertiveness, and relationship building and maintenance.

Most addictions whether they are gambling, pornography, internet, alcohol, drugs, or shopping are all rooted in the desire toward pleasure seeking and all result in an outcome which is unable to sustain that pleasurable experience. Often people seek treatment when the behaviors result in destructive outcomes. When a spouse or family member of an addicted person or the addicted person themselves, admits the behaviors are resulting in negative outcomes and the person is unsuccessful in stopping the behavior we define this as an addiction. We provide insight as to what is the root cause and teach them better coping skills.

I have specialized training in providing evidence-based treatments that are outcome focused. I work from a primarily Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) orientation and I incorporate elements of health and wellness into my approach. I work as a partner in treatment with my clients, drawing on my decade of experience in the mental health field. I work with adults, older adults and adolescents, providing both long- and short-term treatment, in the Long Beach/South Bay area.

Addiction has many external forms (i.e. substance, alcohol, sex, gambling, shoplifting, etc.) and in looking at recovery for addiction, one needs to be able to: acknowledge the addiction, be open to a more balanced way of living, be honest with themselves, and be willing to make the appropriate choices to counter-act one's addictive behaviors. In recovery from addiction, it becomes the little things that build and grow into the big ones.

My work at a residential drug treatment facility for three years complements my 25 years of experience as a psychotherapist. In addition to substance abuse and codependence issues, I support individuals with sexual compulsivity issues. I refrain from labeling this as an "addiction" per se, as does ASSECT (American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists). Treatment may sometimes involve significant others and family, as all are affected.

Is your addiction eating you alive? Perhaps you have received some bad news from a doctor or a loved one because of your addiction. No matter what you're experiencing, we're here to help you. You're not alone! We create a custom made system that fits your life to bring the greatest results through discovering your temperament. Call us now to see how we can help you.

Struggles with addiction and substance abuse can often be accompanied by guilt and shame, and this guilt and shame are typically triggers for continued use/relapse. Use of a strengths-based approach to treating substance abuse can tap an individual's own strengths to gain insight and to increase coping skills. Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Interpersonal Therapy can also prove useful to address unmet needs, feeling "stuck" and challenging irrational thoughts that lead to continued use.

There is so much guilt surrounding addiction. You get angry at yourself for not being "strong enough" to combat it. Your addiction has been your way to cope. No, it is not healthy, but you first must have some compassion for yourself and what got you here. Overcoming addiction requires intensive treatment, support, and a plan. Will power is simply not enough. I can help you create a plan that will give you the best advantage to overcoming the chains of addiction so that you can be free to live your life and enjoy your loved ones, and regain trust in yourself again.

We are talking about craving for substances or behavior that gets in the way of relationships, work, and general health. First, treat yourself to sharing with a professional what is going on because you are unlikely to be able to solve this all by yourself if you are still suffering. Talking is obviously not enough and you will learn to take the steps to change these destructive habits.