Addiction Therapists in Brooklin, ON.

Addiction can take many forms — alcohol and substance use, gambling, porn, gaming, or other compulsive behaviours — and it rarely exists in isolation. At Durham Psychotherapy, we understand that addiction is often rooted in pain, trauma, anxiety, or unmet emotional needs. Our registered therapists take a non-judgmental, compassionate approach to addiction counselling, helping clients explore the underlying drivers of their addictive behaviour, develop healthier coping strategies, and build a sustainable path toward recovery. We use evidence-based approaches including Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and trauma-informed care to support clients at every stage — whether they are just starting to question their relationship with a substance or behaviour, or...(view profile to read more)

Contrary to what is believed, addiction usually starts with a positive impact on a person’s life and even sometimes saves their life. However, as the time goes by, this creative adjustment becomes outdated and turns into a problem. Therefore, working with addiction should not be about illuminating the symptoms or the manifestations of the addiction, but rather trying to understand the reasons underlying the addiction and the function that it used to serve. A successful recovery is only possible through understanding and even respecting the addiction. Schedule a free 15-minute consultation to see if we are a good fit.

I view addiction not just as a problem but an unhelpful solution to a different problem. Often, we turn to addiction to get away from something else. It is that “something else” that we would try to understand in our sessions. We will then work to find healthier ways of coping to replace the addiction. I also specialize in helping reduce cannabis use, which may not be addictive as a substance but has addictive effects. It is never too late to start this journey. Call today to book a free consultation.

Addiction rarely exists in isolation—it's often connected to underlying anxiety, trauma, or difficult life circumstances. I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space to explore the root causes of addictive patterns and build healthier coping strategies, using CBT and trauma-informed approaches to address both the behavior and what's driving it. Together, we'll work on identifying triggers, strengthening motivation for change, and developing sustainable tools for long-term recovery, so you can move toward a life that feels more balanced and in your control.

Addiction brings pain and chaos individuals, couples and families. I see addictions as poor and destructive coping mechanisms and work with individuals and couples to interrupt the behavior and work to process the pain underlying the behavior. I am very familiar with 12 step programs and CSAT work that help individuals and couples make sense out of the addiction. I also work within a complementary framework of attachment and the importance of strong close inter-dependent, not co-dependent relationships with the most important people in one's life, family. Call me for a consult about your particular needs and situation.

Merriam-Webster’s definition states: Addiction: a strong and harmful need to regularly have something (such as a drug) or do something (such as gamble). The key word is harmful. In this light, one could even postulate people can be addicted to arguing and fighting, to the chemicals released from the adrenal gland during "fight or flight"? Did you know the actual term “addiction” was originally used in the slave trade? (S. Luper-Foy C. Brown (ed.) (1994). Drugs, Morality, and the Law. Garland). When a slave was sold to the “owner”, they were said to be addicted to their master which meant “tied to”. Well, if you and I can be tied to something… yes… we can be untied! www.jeffpacker.com

In order to understand addictions, we have to first understand that it is a symptom of a much larger issue. By working with me through their addiction, clients often find that they get to the root of the issue that may be causing relapses or active addictions. Clients often develop new ways to cope with what is going on around them and begin to understand certain aspects of themselves that maintains the addiction cycle. Once they discover these aspects and reprocess certain memories, living in recovery becomes much more attainable.

Addiction counseling can be a powerful process when a client feels ready and open to change. Addiction is often rooted in unresolved trauma, and meaningful healing comes from addressing both together. I offer trauma-informed, client-centered support that integrates evidence-based approaches such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and harm-reduction strategies. By working through the underlying emotional pain alongside the patterns of addiction, individuals can begin to rebuild what may have been lost—regaining a sense of stability, self-worth, and resilience on their path to recovery.

Transform your approach to overcoming addiction with a blend of Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy. This unique combination empowers clients by identifying personal goals, building on strengths, and addressing the emotions behind addictive behaviors. Motivational Interviewing fosters commitment to change, Solution-Focused Therapy enhances resilience, and Emotionally Focused Therapy deepens self-awareness. Together, these approaches offer a compassionate path to lasting recovery, helping clients regain control and reconnect with their best selves.

Addiction is not a "disease." Many people develop addiction because of their family or social environment. Addiction is also a maladaptive coping behavior that is used to cope with stress, depression, or difficult emotions. I create a non-judgmental and supportive environment for clients who are struggling with this particular issue. I do not see abstinence as a black and white term. Instead, I view past failures and successes as learning opportunities. I also focus on the antecedents that contribute to substance use, such as interpersonal problems, feeling hopeless, or overwhelming emotions. Together, we will discover different or more effective ways to deal with life challenges.

Addiction is extremely complicated, painful and overpowering. You're a great person! One who wishes to have a 'normal life'. But it's not happen. You're trapped, unable to break the chains. You have tried your very best to break the chains, but they are too strong, too big. This is where I come in. Allow me to help you. The 2 of us have a greater chance to break the chains than you have by youself. I have seen many people secure themselves from various types of addiction(s). Call me. I will coach you to freedom.

With the fast pace and challenges of life, you do not have to face them alone. Sometimes you need a helping hand and a friendly ear to talk to. It's my passion to help people. I offer counselling and psychotherapy for individuals, couples and families. I work with clients to improve their resiliency, and uncover their strengths using a client centered approach and different modalities to meet needs .

Along with a more conventional form of therapy for addictions, I will also focus on the cause of addictive behavior and will utilize less conventional methods of ferreting out the conditions, criteria, and even purpose (how does addictive behavior benefit you?) behind the behavior. Addictions are a complicated issue, and the more the client understands the deeply rooted causes of their behavior the better chance he or she may have in controlling the condition. It isn't just about stopping the behavior but discovering the meaning behind the choices being made.

Struggling with substance use or addiction can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. I’m Simona Ilieva, a Registered Psychotherapist specializing in addiction therapy. Together, we’ll explore the underlying causes of your substance use, identify triggers, and develop personalized strategies for lasting recovery. Whether you’re dealing with alcohol, drugs, or other addictive behaviors, I’m here to support you in taking back control of your life. Recovery is not just about breaking free from substance use—it’s about rediscovering your strengths and building a life you feel proud of. Healing is possible, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s take that first st

Having an addiction is not a sign of weakness or lack of character. In fact, reaching out for help and being open to change takes a great deal of strength. My approach is one of openness and non-judgment. I follow a harm reduction approach meaning that I respect my clients right to set their own goals which will then guide our sessions. I appreciate that not everyone is ready to, nor wants to, work towards full sobriety. Harm reduction is about reducing the negative impact that substance use has on that person’s well-being and life. I strongly believe that any positive change is a success. If you think that my approach would work for you, please book a free consultation.