Addiction Therapists in Palatine, IL.

Additions can often be understood as an effort to numb the pain resulting in one’s failure in their relationship with the self. Feeling unable to experience adequate levels of self-esteem can reflect difficulty in loving and caring for yourself or accepting love from others. Feeling vulnerable and exposed can reflect difficulties in feeling able to protect yourself resulting from difficulties with setting effective boundaries, while losing yourself in the face of other’s beliefs can reflect difficulties with identifying and sharing who you know yourself to be. These and other symptoms can lead you to seeking to numb yourself from the pain of feeling overwhelmed. Reconnect with yourself.

Addictions are hard to accept. Is it a problem? Is it manageable? I encourage you to not face it alone. Ultimately, an addiction has to be replaced by relationship to something else, a connection to something bigger and better. If a substance (or a behavior) is starting to take more than it gives, options for recovery are not as scary as you might think.

Although substance abuse issues are primarily recognized as addictions, I am aware of the many other forms of addiction, such as gambling, sex, and internet. My philosophy is that any form of addiciton is simply a way for the individual to cope with their stressors. I would encourage the use of positive coping techniques; I would not be judgmental in any way. I believe that seeking assistance is a show of strength.

Addiction to any substance or behavior can have hugh consequences. Admitting that ones life is out of control is the first step to a successful recovery from any addiction. Learning new coping skills like mindfulness, emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness and distress tolerance will equip the client with life long skills that will allow them to live a more fulfilled life. Many times addicts are not running toward something they are running from something. Uncovering what that is might be another key to a solid recovery.

Substance Addiction creates a lot of drama for people. And it comes with a good amount of denial. So it's critical that I meet my clients where they are. Teens and adults often process this territory differently so it's important that I've worked with both and understand their particular needs. Soon, we identify the consequences clients have suffered as a result of their drinking/drug use. And we talk about how their belief system changes their ability to see the truth about drugs and alcohol. Using psycho-educational strategies, I help clients make choices and begin to heal their addiction.