Addiction Therapists in Clarington, ON.

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

While substance use typically begins as recreational activity it can become habit forming and often develops addictive behaviors interfering with other areas of our lives, such as relationships, jobs, and finances. To increase awareness and insight into the reasons for using, I offer evidence-based treatment while providing you with options along the continuum of the Harm Reduction approach towards abstinence. We will explore any underlying emotional needs and relationships. By gaining insight to any ambivalent thoughts and feelings around changing patterns of substance misuse I will support you in the setting and achieving of personal goals. Schedule a free consultation today.

Addiction is a multifaceted challenge, and understanding its roots is key to recovery. While I do not offer therapy sessions for addiction, we have several addiction specialists at Psychotherapy Collective who are available to schedule a free 15-minute consultation with you to ensure they are the proper fit for your journey. Visit our profiles at https://www.psychotherapycollective.ca/our-team

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.

I'm happy that you are here and taking steps to have a better life. Addiction comes in many forms whether it's substances, alcohol, sex, or internet but it's not the form that matters but the function that it is serving. What pain does this behaviour is trying to soothe or distract you from? If we attend to the pain and discomfort, it gives you an opportunity for recovery. I am here to provide a safe, encouraging, and supportive place to meet where you are at today.

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.

Feeling out of control and unable to stop engaging in harmful behaviours can feel shameful, over-whelming and hopeless. My approach to addiction treatment is based in a harm reduction model. This approach acknowledges that maintaining abstinence may not be a realistic goal. Without judgement we will work together to set realistic goals that seek to reduce the negative impacts of your addiction. You may choose to explore the roots of your addiction and any other related issues. It will always be up to you. Please reach out for a consult so we can assess whether I am the right therapist to help you move toward change and stability.

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 is a multifaceted challenge, and understanding its roots is key to recovery. While I do not offer therapy sessions for addiction, we have several addiction specialists at Psychotherapy Collective who are available to schedule a free 15-minute consultation with you to ensure they are the proper fit for your journey. Visit our profiles at https://www.psychotherapycollective.ca/our-team

Addictions counselling will support you through your recovery. Addiction recovery may include education on what the addiction is and how it effects your brain, being completely honest to others and accountable to yourself, gaining understanding by linking your behaviour to past history, gaining a support system from therapy and groups, and learning how to recognize addictive triggers as well as healthy ways to cope with them. Ultimately, addiction recovery will allow you to let go of the guilt and shame to a place of acceptance and forgiveness.